End Times and Prophecy

• “Are We Living in The Last Days?” Pamphlet Amazingly Accurate

  

  by Darlinda McDonald

  In 1989, Bill Rudge wrote, with the leading of the Holy Spirit, the Are We Living in the Last Days? pamphlet. At that time, many people said he was crazy because they could not imagine the fulfillment of Revelation occurring in our lifetime. A recent reading of the pamphlet, however, proved that what God revealed to Bill so many years ago is amazingly accurate.

  From the increase of out-of-control weather conditions, sexual immorality, occultism and the persecution of true believers in Christ around the world to the move towards a unified global society and the growing apostate church, this pamphlet expresses in detail what to expect. Excerpts of Bill’s prophetic article written in 1989 follow.

  I believe you and I are living at the most exciting time in the history of the world. We are about to witness the fulfillment of what the prophets foretold thousands of years ago. I realize some of these signs have occurred throughout history and many people wrongly concluded they were “the generation,” but never before in history have we seen such an increase in both intensity and frequency of these indications. No other generation has had the potential, the way our generation does, to see the fulfillment of Revelation.

  Signs of the Times

  Throughout the world we are seeing bizarre, record-breaking weather conditions ― some of history’s fiercest hurricanes, tornados, volcanoes, fires, floods, and mud slides. Nature seems out of control and is getting more extreme. It is heading in the direction Revelation indicates will occur during the Tribulation period, testifying that some cataclysmic global events are on the near horizon.

  There are earthquakes in diverse places, famines, and wars and rumors of wars [beginning of birth pains, Matthew 24:6-9]. Increasing pollution of water, land, and air, as well as widespread plagues and pestilence.

  Revelation indicates that people in the last days, during the Tribulation, won’t repent of four things: 1) Sorcery ― that means occultism and demonic phenomena will be very prominent; 2) Sexual Immorality ― that means a world given over to lust and every sexual perversion imaginable; 3) Murders ― that means we will be living in a very violent world ― ethnic conflict, terrorism, hijackings, kidnappings, bombings, assassinations, senseless homicides, serial killers, mass murders, abortion, robbery, assault, and riots; and 4) Thefts/Lies ― that means deceit and corruption will be widespread.

  Another “sign of the times” is Israel. For 2,500 years there was no independent nation of Israel. Yet the prophets foretold that events in the last days would focus in and around the tiny nation of Israel.

  Unified Global Society

  I have been saying for over 10 years [back in the 1970s] that we were heading for a unified global society with a one-world monetary system, and a one-world religion. Most people said, “It will never happen.” But we are rapidly heading to a global society and the mark of the beast.

  Everyone thought the world was too divided and there was no way to break down national, social, racial, cultural, political, economic, and religious barriers. But we are seeing things occur on the world scene creating the establishment of a unified global society.

  Many of the world’s political and religious leaders are saying, “We are not merely dealing with national crises, we are facing global catastrophes unless we unite for the common good of the world!” However, the expected golden era of peace, prosperity, and unity, will become the darkest hour earth will ever know.

  Persecution

  The potential for persecution of believers in Christ is quickly developing and will reach its consummation with the Antichrist who will persecute and martyr those who do not take his mark or worship his image. If we are going to have a New World Order and a global society under the reign of Antichrist, then those who will not cooperate must either be converted, silenced, or eliminated. And that is exactly what Scripture indicates is going to happen.

  Steps are being set up which will eventually result in the persecution and possible martyrdom of believers in Christ who refuse to compromise and conform. The violence in the media is desensitizing young people and adults to accept it as a normal way of life. Biblical beliefs are being undermined, both in the secular world and by many supposed Christian leaders. Christians and Jews are being labeled as the world’s troublemakers. Love and unity is the only good; division is evil. Therefore, Christians who refuse to unite with this New World Order ― for the common good and salvation of our planet ― are divisive and evil and are the real Antichrist.

  The Second Coming of Christ

  Jesus is coming back. There is no doubt about it. But He is not coming back as a servant like He did the first time. Jesus is returning in great power and glory, as the King of kings and Lord of lords, to defeat the Antichrist, False Prophet, and Satan, as well as to establish His millennial kingdom and eternity.

  Those who are ready for His appearing and are saying, “Come, Lord Jesus” do not have to be afraid or intimidated by what is coming on the world scene. We are more than conquerors through Christ; we are overcomers; we are to occupy till He comes. One of the most important admonitions concerning the Lord’s return is that of endurance: “be faithful,” “hold on,” “overcome,” “persevere,” “stand firm to the end”….

  I am not fearful, I am excited. I am not discouraged, I am overjoyed. And you should be excited about living at the most thrilling time in the history of the world. All the prophets looked forward to this time, to the culmination of these events. And you and I, I am convinced, are living in that generation.

  “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20).

• America – The Glory is Departing

  America, America you were so very blessed.

  You loved the Lord; and His truth you once professed.

  You honored His Word and blessed His name,

  But now you put them both to shame.

  Respected by allies and feared by foes,

  A once-free country, you now face many woes.

  Of all the nations, God made you the best,

  But now your name, is oft’ said in jest.

  So far removed from all once possessed,

  Your people in every city, deeply distressed.

  America! Turn to the Lord before it’s too late.

  And pray you’ve not already sealed your fate!

  Hear the Lord’s pleas,

  And fall on your knees.

  That He may restore,

  And bless you once more from shore to shore!

  – Bill Rudge

  

• America in Prophecy: Part 1 – The Foundation of America

  

  by BJ Rudge, Ph. D.

  When I was in high school I had the opportunity to play soccer in Europe with the East West Ambassadors. We were the only American team in the tournaments. I recall one tournament – the night before the games were to begin – a ceremony took place where each team walked around the field as the fans in the stadium cheered. It was a thrilling experience to be waving our American flags and representing our country.

  In all my travels, I am constantly made aware of the greatness of America and how God has blessed this nation. Yet I see the greatness of America fading. While she is still the most influential nation in the world, her superpower status appears to be declining. I wonder what America will be like when my six children are older. Will the American dream be a faded memory of the past?

  “What will be the future of America?” is a common question my father and I are asked when we speak on end-times prophecy. While there is no specific prophetic passage that mentions America, there is much biblical truth which sheds light on America’s future. In order to understand what is to come we must consider America’s past and present.

  God is sovereign over nations and kings: “Oh, let the nations be glad and sing for joy! For You shall judge the people righteously, and govern the nations on earth” (Psalm 67:4). The truth that God governs the nations of the world is spoken of by Daniel after God revealed to him the details of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream:

  Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, for wisdom and might are His. And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings (Daniel 2:20, 21).

  Anyone who comes to power does so by the sovereign will of God. Regardless of whether the individual chooses to use his or her power for good or for evil, their authority derives from Almighty God.

  Nebuchadnezzar, the ruler over the Babylonian empire, came to recognize this divine truth the hard way. As he surveyed his empire, he made the following boast:

  Is this not Babylon the great, which I myself have built as a royal residence by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty? (Daniel 4:30).

  Babylon certainly was a place of beauty and majesty under Nebuchadnezzar’s reign. He constructed the hanging gardens, which were recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In addition, his capital city was surrounded with a double wall that was 10 miles in length highlighted by the elaborate Ishtar Gate. And further, he brought Babylon to world dominance as he expanded the empire, becoming the first Babylonian king to rule over Egypt. In the midst of boasting of these great accomplishments, the following occurs:

  The words were still on his lips when a voice came from heaven, “This is what is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you.” (Daniel 4:31).

  The Bible says that pride goes before a fall, and Nebuchadnezzar was a living example of this! The passage in Daniel goes on to tell us that Nebuchadnezzar was driven away from his people, and lived like a wild animal until he acknowledged that the Most High is ruler over the kingdoms of men (Daniel 4:32, 33).

  A contemporary example of how pride and arrogance lead down a destructive path, is Saddam Hussein, former ruler over the nation of Iraq, who desired to be the next Nebuchadnezzar. He planned to rebuild Babylon and gain prominence over the surrounding nations, and like Nebuchadnezzar, he was humbled. The man who lived in opulence while his subjects lived in poverty was found hiding like an animal in a hole in the ground.

  However, contrary to Saddam, Nebuchadnezzar was restored to power. In his humility, he came to realize that honor and glory belongs to God alone (Daniel 4:34, 35).

  The truth that God is sovereign over nations and kings was commonly acknowledged early in American history. In reading letters and documents by the Founding Fathers, one quickly sees that this was an assumed truth. While not all of them were Christian, the following examples (a small sample), show that those who influenced America in its infancy were impacted by a biblical worldview. Numerous quotes by America’s Founding Fathers not only acknowledge God’s sovereignty over the establishment of America, but over every nation in the world.

  Patrick Henry in his speech to the Virginia Convention on March 23, 1775, not only uttered the famous words, “give me liberty or give me death,” but also said, “Sir, we are not weak, if we make a proper use of the means which the God of nature hath placed in our power. Three millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us. Besides, sir, we shall not fight our battles alone. There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us.”

  George Washington, first president of the United States of America, uttered these words in the opening statement of his thanksgiving speech on April 3, 1789, “Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor.”

  In his address to the Constitutional Convention held at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 28, 1787, Benjamin Franklin made this profound statement, “I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth: that God governs in the affairs of man. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid? We have been assured, sir, in the Sacred Writings that ‘except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it (Ps. 127:1).’ I firmly believe this….”

  America’s past is saturated with men and women who realized that their nation’s existence and continual preservation was a direct result of the providential hand of Almighty God.

  The first constitution of Pennsylvania (the state in which I was born and raised) was established in 1776. The following is an excerpt from this document, which each member of the legislature had to declare before he took his seat in office:

  I do believe in one God, the creator and governor of the universe, the rewarder of the good and the punisher of the wicked. And I do acknowledge the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be given by Divine inspiration.”

  As this 1776 document reveals, the earliest form of government in Pennsylvania required its officials to acknowledge the sovereignty of God. It is amazing how far America has wandered from its foundational principles!

  God Uses Nations to Fulfill His Prophetic Plans

  Just as God used the Persian king Cyrus (c. 580-529 BC) to bring the children of Israel back to their land after their long exile, He has used America to fulfill His prophetic plan. One aspect of America’s role in prophecy has been her support of the nation of Israel. Following the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in AD 70 by the Roman general Titus, Israel as a nation ceased to exist. The Jewish people were scattered across the earth, while the land, which was given a new name called Palestine, became a barren land occupied by people of both Jewish and Arab descent.

  Following World War II Britain was given authority over Palestine. However, because of the ongoing problem between the Arabs and the Jews, Britain gave up its authority of Palestine to the United Nations. Driven by a desire to avoid a repeat of history, where the Jewish people were nearly exterminated by Adolph Hitler and the Nazis, and to help resolve the ongoing Arab/Jewish conflict, the UN proposed to partition the land into two states. Right away this proposal faced opposition.

  World leaders were forced to choose whether or not to support the proposal for an independent nation of Israel, and President Truman found himself in the middle of this battle. Many in the State Department and leaders in the military voiced their opposition to this proposal. They felt America’s support of an Israeli nation would create unnecessary tension with the oil rich Arab countries.

  Despite facing opposition within his own cabinet, President Truman held to the belief that Israel had a prophetic destiny. This belief came about through his reading of the Bible (which it is reported he had read through it twice by age 12), and conversations with a Jewish friend by the name of Edward Jacobson. These two factors proved to influence the decision that Truman had to make on May 14, 1948. For it was on this day that Israel made a declaration of statehood. Shortly thereafter President Truman declared America’s recognition of the nation of Israel.

  A story is told of Truman being introduced by his Jewish friend Jacobson to a group of professors in the following way, “This is the man who helped create the state of Israel.” The story goes that Truman responded by saying, “What do you mean create? I am Cyrus. I am Cyrus.”

  Through the prophet Ezekiel, God promised that Israel would come back to its land after being scattered among the nations:

  Thus says the Lord God: “Surely I will take the children of Israel from among the nations, wherever they have gone, and will gather them from every side and bring them into their own land….”

  Just as God had used Cyrus to fulfill His prophetic word, so too, God used the American President, Harry Truman, to bring about His prophetic plan to restore His people to their land.

  America has also been used to fulfill prophecy through her role in fulfilling the Great Commission. No other nation in history has done more to promote worldwide missions than America, helping to fulfill Jesus’ prophetic words in His Olivet Discourse:

  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.

  God Blesses and Judges Nations

  In Genesis chapter 12, God calls Abram (whose name is changed to Abraham in chapter 17) to leave his country and relatives for a land that God will show him. God then gives the following promise:

  And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed (Genesis 12:2, 3).

  Here we see that God not only makes a prophetic promise to Abram, but to all other people depending on how they deal with him. Of course, we know that the great nation God promises to Abram is the Jewish people.

  We can see the second part of this prophecy fulfilled in America. No modern nation has supported Israel and been a better friend to the Jewish people than America. This fulfillment of the prophetic statement God made to Abram is a major reason why America has been such a blessed nation. Consider the status of America since 1948 when President Truman set the precedent of supporting Israel as a nation. America has been blessed economically, militarily and become the envy of the other nations.

  Moving to the present situation in America, I am sure it is not hard to see how far we have strayed from our past. Just as the nation of Israel walked away from God, the same pattern is being repeated in America.

  Israel was commanded by God to pass on a spiritual legacy to the next generation. They were called to show the next generation how faith is related to every area of life (Deuteronomy 6:6, 7).

  For a time, the nation of Israel took seriously this mandate from God (as recorded in Judges 2:7). However, just three verses later, we find a drastic change:

  All that generation were gathered to their fathers; and there arose another generation after them who did not know the LORD, nor the work which He had done for Israel (Judges 2:10).

  The result of just one generation not fulfilling God’s mandate to teach the next generation about the Lord, lead Israel on a destructive path:

  Then the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and served the Baals; and they forsook the LORD, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods from among the gods of the peoples who were around them, and bowed themselves down to them; thus they provoked the LORD to anger (Judges 2:11, 12).

  No longer did the next generation follow the commands of the Lord, instead, “… everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25).

  Tragically this same path is being taken by America. Our spiritual past and the way in which God has blessed our nation is forgotten. We no longer seek the wisdom of God and His Word. Instead, like the children of Israel, everyone does what is right in his or her own eyes.

  We are forfeiting the blessings and freedoms for which America’s founders gave their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.

  As we contemplate the present reality in America the obvious questions arise, “Is there any hope for our future? Can we once again experience the blessings of God?”

  While many answers are proposed – changing laws, legislating conservative values, changing the political makeup in Washington, D.C. – none of these solutions will ultimately succeed. There is one thing America must do to ensure its future. As Solomon reminded the children of Israel of what they should do if they walked away from the Lord, so, too, America needs to heed these words if she expects to see God bless this nation once again:

  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 will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).

• America in Prophecy: Part 2 – A Call to America! How long will our flag fly?

  

  by Bill Rudge

  America has been the greatest nation in the history of the world. Built upon the principles in God’s Word, she has seemed invincible. Once honoring the LORD, she forsakes and rejects the ways of the One Who has blessed and protected her.

  America is hardening her heart to the God of the Bible and enthusiastically embraces beliefs and practices contrary to His nature and will. Accordingly, the testimony of Scripture, the lessons of history, and the witness of God’s Spirit announce America’s inevitable fate – unless she repents.

  We must turn from the morally bankrupt path we are pursuing. Instead of following the trends of secular society, the Church must be guided by God’s Word and His Spirit.

  Are We Deaf?

  Why have we trampled under foot the very Word of God? Are we deaf to God’s calls to repent? Are we too stiff-necked to turn back to the LORD and walk His path before it is too late? Does this generation not realize that the apocalyptic events described in Revelation are on the verge of occurring? As cataclysmic judgments loom at our door, how can we continue this foolhardy course?

  Any discerning person can recognize what is happening: America is being methodically attacked and the glory of our beloved country is rapidly diminishing. Under the pretense of protection, U.S. and global citizens are being methodically monitored, strategically controlled, and systematically enslaved. Increasing surveillance and loss of privacy are speeding us toward the reality of Revelation 13 – not being able to buy or sell without a mark on the right hand or forehead.

  Are We Blind?

  Scripture has proven to be amazingly accurate throughout history and is being fulfilled today. Are we too blind to see that many of these prophesied curses are already being experienced in America for violating God’s laws?

  We are facing impending judgment, yet so many have stopped-up ears, blinded eyes, calloused hearts with values too twisted to recognize what is coming.

  Although initially written millennia ago for the nation of Israel, Moses’ words are relevant for America today. God promised great blessings for obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Leviticus 26:3-13) and restoration for repentance in violating His Word (Leviticus 26:40-45; Isaiah 1:18, 19). The LORD also strongly warned of harsh consequences for rebellion, disobedience, and the persistent violation of His decrees (Deuteronomy 28:15-68; Leviticus 26:14-39; and Isaiah 1:2-31).

  One day America, like Judah, may be invaded, our people humbled and taken captive. One day those who are selling out America and betraying her by actively or passively undermining her historic values will sit in mourning over the loss of our great cities – as the Jews grieved for Jerusalem when they were taken into Babylonian captivity.

  I have grave concerns for this nation I love so much. Every Fourth of July for the past several years I have pondered the gradual – sometimes dramatic – changes in America. I see the flag at our ministry center swaying in the breeze and wonder how long it will fly.

• America in Prophecy: Part 3 – How Long Can America Stand?

  by Bill Rudge

  Will terrorism, nuclear attack, invasion, moral corruption, economic collapse, natural disasters, or something else cripple the U.S.?

  
  America is not specifically mentioned in Bible prophecy because she will either suddenly or gradually cease to be a world power. At this time America is playing a significant role in end time prophecy as she helps lay the foundation for much of what Revelation foretells.

  Some believe that the rapture mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 4:16-18 will take so many political and military Christians that it will weaken America’s leadership. A weakened America could easily be absorbed into the Revived Roman Empire and become part of the Antichrist’s future regime.

  Some believe America is the Babylon mentioned in Revelation chapters 17 and 18. If this is true, America will be a leader in oppression of biblical Christianity and persecution of true believers. Her apostasy and prosperity would continue until she is completely destroyed near the end of the Tribulation period by the Antichrist and the world leaders who support him.

  There are several possible scenarios for America’s gradual decline (or quick demise) neutralizing her as a superpower. Out of that vacuum could arise the global leader who, with brilliant proposals of peace and prosperity, will rally the world to unite on an unprecedented scale.

  Potential Threats

  Many potential threats are creating the “perfect storm” that could devastate America and turn the American dream into an American nightmare. The following are a few possibilities:

  Moral decay resulting in divorce, single parent families, family turmoil, child abuse, pornography, incest, molestation, rape, abortions, political and corporate corruption, theft, lies, drug addiction (both illegal and prescription), alcohol abuse…are taking a heavy toll on America.

  Sexually transmitted diseases and bacterial or viral infections could reach epidemic proportions. The pandemic Coronavirus, or other national and global pestilence, could ravage America’s economy and be a stepping stone to a New World Order. Diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and other maladies are devastating one or more members of nearly every family in America.

  Internal chaos could wreck havoc on the America many of us once knew. Violent crime, gang violence, mass shootings (in public buildings, military bases, schools, and other places), rioting, and anarchy are permeating our country to the point that no area is immune.

  Acts of terror across America, including attacks against major utilities (water, gas, electric…) could cripple American cities.

  Electromagnetic pulse (EMP) with resulting loss of all electronic equipment would throw America back to the 1800s.

  Cyber attacks by hackers have broken into computer systems and breached our security, stealing military secrets as well as identity information on millions of federal workers, military personnel, and U.S. citizens. The data breach could potentially affect every federal agency. This information could be used to impersonate or blackmail federal employees with access to sensitive information.

  China is a major concern and is preparing for an inevitable war with America which they intend to win, because China wants to be the next superpower. While many Americans are becoming undisciplined and weak, the Chinese are training and strengthening. With guns being increasingly confiscated, China’s massive military could sweep across America and decimate her.

  Iran is nearing nuclear capability and has repeatedly announced its intention to nuke Israel and America.

  North Korea continues to be a real threat with their nuclear weapons.

  Russia could unleash devastation on America with a preemptive strike using nuclear submarines off our shores. Russia and a coalition of Arab nations, in fulfillment of Ezekiel 38 and 39, could then invade Israel without the U.S. hindering or thwarting their attack.

  The border with Mexico is extremely vulnerable. Mexican drug cartels are reported to be running operations in many American cities.

  Extreme weather and natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornados, floods, polluted/toxic streams and rivers, droughts, heat waves, hail, wildfires, volcanic eruptions, and/or earthquakes could cause untold havoc across America.

  Financial burdens could cascade into economic chaos and collapse from escalating national debt, skyrocketing health care, soaring living expenses, and increasing taxes. Insurance premiums would rise. Grocery expenses would inflate from the scarcity of food.

  We are the most formidable fighting force in the world, but the state of the economy could be our undoing. You cannot fund a strong military with a weak economy. It could result in our having to reduce our military and pull our troops home leaving the world a much more dangerous place.

  Just as a strong boxer, taking blow after blow, falls unconscious to the canvas, America is close to being “knocked out” from the relentless assaults. Muhammad Ali used his famous ‘rope-a-dope’ to tire opponents in the boxing ring, and America is punching herself out morally, financially, and militarily. (At Optimum Health Institute he said when registering that he was Joe Frazier.)

  The chipping away of the foundation of America leaves us vulnerable to widespread confusion and chaos. America faces many possible crises that could take her down slow and steady or hard and fast.

  None of the deadly scenarios referred to above would have been possible had we not turned from the Lord, forfeiting His protection and blessing. Turning from faith and righteousness to disbelief and wickedness makes us ripe for judgment. Can we not see our imminent peril and looming catastrophe?

  Do we not perceive that the consequences recorded in the Bible are repeated throughout history with the same tragic results for nations that defied the LORD? These consequences are playing out now in this nation before our eyes.

  Will terrorism, nuclear attack, invasion, moral corruption, economic collapse, internal chaos, natural disasters cripple or devastate the U.S.? Or will America repent and turn back to the Lord? God only knows.

• America in Prophecy: Part 4 – Judgment Coming to America

  

  by Bill Rudge

  God will bring America to her knees – either in repentance, or judgment. If we are to stand as a nation, we must be on our knees as individuals.

  Back in the 1980s, after much prayer, fasting and biblical research, I warned about what I saw coming: America’s decline, apostasy, persecution of Christians in America, the move to a New World Order with a one world government and monetary system, and a unified world religion. What seemed to many impossible and far removed then is now at our doorstep.

  The greatest peril facing America today is that she has forsaken the LORD. God has been pushed out of our schools, government and many other facets of our culture. In 1962 prayer was removed from public schools and in 1963 the Bible was taken out. The Ten Commandments, nativity scenes, Christmas carols, crosses and prayer in Jesus name have been systematically banned – while Eastern, occult, atheistic and New Age beliefs and practices are welcomed.

  A man I had met in Haiti, visiting the U.S. for the first time a few years ago, said something simple – yet profound: “Americans have everything, but they need God.” The move to remove God from every vestige of public life is hastening our downfall. America is no longer the same America of our youth.

  When our fathers and grandfathers fought to liberate Europe from brutal Nazism, who would ever have believed what America herself would become? No wonder so many older Americans have grave concern for this country and see only devastation ahead.

  To destroy Biblical Christianity by blaming, opposing and neutralizing it is to destroy America! This appears to be the demonically inspired agenda of a growing number of individuals and groups both nationally and globally.

  Compounding our defiance of God’s Word, American (and world) leaders are pressuring Israel to divide the land despite biblical warnings otherwise:

  I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the valley of Jehoshaphat. Then I will enter into judgment with them there on behalf of My people and My inheritance, Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations; and they have divided up My land (Joel 3:2).

  America, as well as many other nations, has abandoned God’s designed institution of marriage and the family. Almost anything that is contrary to God’s nature and Scripture is being embraced. There is no remorse as idolatrous and immoral practices are becoming the norm – first merely tolerated, then accepted and now enthusiastically celebrated. Today’s generation flaunts every imaginable disgraceful behavior right in God’s face.

  Persecution Is Coming to America

  The day is upon us when professing Christians who do not want to face harassment, persecution, lawsuits and incarceration will distance themselves from the Jesus of the Bible and deny biblical truth. Forsaking the Lord, they will become part of the prophesied apostasy.

  On the other hand (ironically) a wave of unprecedented persecution in America will wake up many sleeping Christians to become totally committed to Jesus Christ. Instead of craving the fleeting pleasures of this world, their desire will be to honor the Lord. They will willingly sacrifice anything in this life to gain the eternal inheritance Jesus promises to all who love Him and obey His Word.

  Is the Wound Beyond Healing?

  There came a point when Judah’s idolatry, sorcery, immorality, violence and arrogance became so prevalent that God commanded Jeremiah not even to pray for her (Jeremiah 7:16, 17). He emphatically said to Jeremiah:

  Even though Moses and Samuel were to stand before Me, My heart would not be with this people; send them away from My presence and let them go (Jeremiah 15:1).

  Again, God tells the prophet Ezekiel:

  “Son of man, if a country sins against Me by committing unfaithfulness, and I stretch out My hand against it, destroy its supply of bread, send famine against it and cut off from it both man and beast, even though these three men, Noah, Daniel and Job were in its midst, by their own righteousness they could only deliver themselves,” declares the Lord GOD (Ezekiel 14:13, 14).

  God’s judgment always eventually falls – as we have discovered concerning the fate of unfaithful Judah, who followed the abominations of the nations and defiled the house of the LORD. Although God compassionately sent emissaries, the people “continually mocked the messengers of God, despised His words and scoffed at His prophets, until the wrath of the LORD arose against His people, until there was no remedy. … to fulfill the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah” (2 Chronicles 36:16-21).

  Past Judgments

  Cataclysmic judgments have happened several times in the past. Consider Noah’s Flood:

  Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. Now the earth was corrupt in the sight of God, and the earth was filled with violence. God looked on the earth, and behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way upon the earth” (Genesis 6:5; 11, 12 ).

  Sodom and Gomorrah is a classic biblical example of God’s judgment. Three men appeared to Abraham – two were angels and the third was a theophany (appearance of God in human form). Genesis chapter 18 gives the following account:

  And the LORD said, “The outcry of Sodom and Gomorrah is indeed great, and their sin is exceedingly grave.” Abraham came near and said, “Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are in it? Far be it from You to do such a thing, to slay the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treated alike. Far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth deal justly?” So the LORD said, ‘If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the whole place on their account’ ” (Genesis 18:20, 23-26).

  Through Abraham’s intercession the Lord agreed to spare the cities if just ten righteous people were found within Sodom. They were not, and Sodom and Gomorrah were completely destroyed.

  It is erroneous to believe that God will not judge America if there are more than ten righteous people. God may not annihilate America as He did Sodom and Gomorrah, but Israel and Judah faced severe judgments even though such righteous people as Daniel, Ezekiel and Jeremiah were there. Israel went into Assyrian captivity in 722 B.C. and in 586 B.C. Judah went into Babylonian captivity. God has also judged many other nations throughout history.

  The Apostle Peter confirms God’s past and future judgments:

  For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to pits of darkness, reserved for judgment; and did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a preacher of righteousness, with seven others, when He brought a flood upon the world of the ungodly; and if He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to destruction by reducing them to ashes, having made them an example to those who would live ungodly lives thereafter; and if He rescued righteous Lot, oppressed by the sensual conduct of unprincipled men (for by what he saw and heard that righteous man, while living among them, felt his righteous soul tormented day after day by their lawless deeds), then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from temptation, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment for the day of judgment (2 Peter 2:4-9).

  Jeremiah prophesied God’s impending judgment to apostate and unrepentant Judah for 40 years before it actually happened. All that time a loving God sought to turn their hearts back to Himself. Persistent in rebellion and apostasy, Judah’s judgment finally came. Today, many do not believe God’s judgment is coming to America – but it is.

  Has America Gone Too Far?

  Our nation lives on borrowed money for our national debt and borrowed time from a merciful God. If America continues on her reckless way, waves of judgment will intensify intended to bring those who will to repentance, and cleanse the earth of those whose persistent rebellion, arrogance and wickedness have defiled it.

  By Tuesday night on September 11, 2001, most Americans were in their homes or places of worship praying to God for help, comfort, protection, and singing “God Bless America.” People all across the nation were remorseful. It appeared our nation was unified in turning back to God.

  I had hoped that spirit of repentance would be long lasting. For many it was a genuine repentance – their hearts were truly turned to the Lord Jesus Christ. However, I felt most people would soon return to their former lifestyles. And as time has indeed proven, we did not experience a true national repentance. Today, we see a nation and world given over to the unrepentant behavior foretold in Revelation – sexual immorality, violence, sorcery, idolatry, thefts and lies. Many – even in the Church – have become spiritual prostitutes by tolerating, endorsing and participating in beliefs and practices that are detestable to our Creator.

  9/11 was the wake-up call to America that exposed our vulnerability. Other crises and natural disasters since that time should alert us that God’s hand of blessing and protection is being removed; that even greater calamities await us.

  Many individuals and groups are praying for the upcoming election, but is it merely a crying out to God only to bless our nation and give us what we want? Or will these prayers result in turning from the wickedness that is enveloping our society and has infiltrated the Church?

  Even a national day of prayer is insufficient without the true repentance that results in a change of heart and behavior. We must not merely deal with the symptoms of our dire dilemma but address the real, underlying cause. America is having a moral heart attack and the only remedy is spiritual and moral regeneration.

  Unless we as individuals, and as a nation, fall on our faces before God in true repentance, I believe that in the not too distant future, a weakened America will be brought to her knees. Our day of judgment will be severe because “from everyone who has been given much, much will be required” (Luke 12:48).

  The prophet Jeremiah states:

  If that nation against which I have spoken turns from its evil, I will relent concerning the calamity I planned to bring on it (Jeremiah 18:8).

  In Second Chronicles 7:14 God promises Israel:

  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.

  In His mercy God may grant us more time but we must change our course before intensifying darkness on the near horizon overtakes us. While my heart hopes America will repent, my gut tells me she will not.

  If the Body of Christ does not purify herself, God will allow persecution to do so. If the Church does not truly repent and clean up her act, cataclysmic judgment will come to America.

  What Should We Do?

  We must humble ourselves and cry out to the Lord for grace and mercy. We must modify our beliefs, words and behavior to honor Him and His Word. We must seek to reach as many people with the Gospel as possible.

  We should prepare our loved ones and friends for what is coming according to Scripture. We should warn those who do not know the Lord to never take the mark of the beast (Revelation 13:13-18; 14:9-11; 15:2; 16:2; 19:20; 20:4).

  We must fervently pray for this nation and its leaders. We should be exemplary citizens. While I am thankful to be an American, my highest allegiance is to Jesus Christ and His Word. When America diverts from God’s Word, I must stand for truth and righteousness.

  Jeremiah was considered a traitor for proclaiming God’s coming judgment on his country unless they repented. He was not a traitor; he was faithful to both God and country. The real traitors were the ones who led the people into the wickedness and apostasy that resulted in the removal of God’s protection and blessing. Our commitment to God and Scripture should make us outstanding citizens because we have America’s best interests at heart.

  An Ancient Prayer for America

  Daniel’s powerful prayer of repentance for the people of Israel while in Babylonian captivity 2,500 years ago should be prayed today, by Americans for America. Make time to read Daniel 9:1-19 in its entirety, but here are some excerpts:

  O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant of love with all who love Him and obey His commands, we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from Your commands and laws. You are righteous, but this day we are covered with shame because of our unfaithfulness to You.

  Therefore the curses and sworn judgments written in the Law of Moses, the servant of God, have been poured out on us, because we have sinned against You. All this disaster has come upon us, yet we have not sought the favor of the LORD our God by turning from our sins and giving attention to Your truth.

  Now, our God, hear the prayers and petitions of Your servant. Give ear, O God, and hear; open Your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears Your Name. We do not make requests of You because we are righteous, but because of Your great mercy. O Lord, listen! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act! For Your sake, O my God, do not delay, because Your city and Your people bear your Name” (Daniel 9:4-19).

  If the people of America pray such a prayer as this – truly repenting and returning to the Lord with all their hearts – the Lord may bless and protect once again. If not, Jeremiah’s prophetic words to Judah will befall America: “The wound is beyond healing” and will prove to be fatal.

• Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

  

  by Bill Rudge

  Revelation 6:1-8 foretells Jesus opening the seven seals of a scroll at the beginning of the Tribulation period. With the opening of the first four seals, four horses of different colors with riders who are given various powers over the earth come forth. (This parallels the “beginning of birth pains” foretold by Jesus in Matthew 24).

  The rider on the white horse represents the Antichrist who conquers a world in chaos, with a bloodless seizure of power, ushering in a supposedly unequaled time of global peace and prosperity. He will amass great power, deceive the nations, blaspheme God, and eventually demand to be worshiped. A real, potential, or embellished global crisis – perhaps a pandemic – will enable the Antichrist to establish a one-world system by appearing to be the world’s savior. The earth’s inhabitants will follow him, deceived by his false (but short-lived) peace plan for this New World Order.

  When the second rider on a red horse goes forth, peace is taken from the earth as violent slaughter and bloodshed ensue. Large numbers of people will slay one another as Antichrist’s illusory peace morphs into worldwide war and massacre.

  Third, comes a rider on a black horse holding a pair of scales in his hand. Worldwide warfare and violence will destroy much of the food supply causing shortages and famine. Inflation, poverty, hunger, rationing and food lines will follow. The Antichrist, and his cohort, the False Prophet, will:

  cause all, the small and the great, and the rich and the poor, and the free men and the slaves, to be given a mark on their right hand or on their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast or the number of his name (Revelation 13:16,17).

  The fourth rider goes forth on a pale horse. This cadaverous ashen color symbolizes the name of the rider – Death – with Hades following him. According to Revelation 6:8:

  Authority was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword and with famine and with pestilence and by the wild beasts of the earth.

  Currently, 25 percent of the people of the earth, would be more than 1.9 billion people. Plagues will follow that will kill one-third of the remaining population (Revelation 9:18).

  Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:4-8 parallel the prophecy of these four horsemen of the apocalypse:

  Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, “I am the Christ,” and will deceive many. 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. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.

  Brian C. Thomas stated in the September/ October, 2020 Lamplighter magazine:

  One of the signs He [Jesus] mentioned was that nation will rise against nation (Matthew 24:7). In the original Greek, this is written ethnos against ethnos which is where we get the word “ethnicity.” In other words, our Lord said that ethnicity against ethnicity would be a sign of His Second Coming.

  In that same journal (8/20) Mike Gendron writes:

  Students of Bible prophecy are not surprised by events that have been triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s because the Lord Jesus Christ gave us signs to watch for that would precede His Second Coming, and one of those many signs that we are seeing today is “pestilence” (Luke 21:11). It is true that we have seen devastating plagues and pestilences throughout history, but none of them have had the far-reaching global impact of COVID-19. Could it be that our sovereign Lord is giving a merciful warning of a more devastating pestilence that awaits those who do not seek Him as their Savior and refuge?

  When Jesus opens the seventh seal (Revelation 8:1), additional judgments commence (trumpet and bowl) in intensifying waves, bringing many to repentance and purifying this earth of its defilement and corruption in preparation for Christ’s Millennial reign. Then the “birth pains” will give way to the birth of God’s Kingdom, thereby literally fulfilling Revelation 11:15:

  The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.

  As has been said by other prophetic writers: Listen closely, you can almost hear the hoofbeats of the four horses of the apocalypse.

• One Day

  

  by Bill Rudge

  There is assuredly a day coming when:

  • The materialistic persons will find no pleasure in all their possessions.
  • The sexually promiscuous person will realize how unappealing and unsatisfying – downright repulsive – were the fleeting pleasures they so passionately pursued.
  • The adulterer and pornographer will see how unattractive the person they lusted after, and almost lost their marriage over, has become.
  • The alcohol and drug dependent person will despise their addiction and be repulsed by the person they have become.
  • The undisciplined person will regret how they wasted their health and resources.
  • The vengeful and violent person will grieve over the hateful words and actions that destroyed their life and that of many others.
  • The racist will regret their prejudice and bigotry.
  • The manipulative person will no longer be able to manipulate and control other people to get their own way.
  • The workaholic will be remorseful about lost opportunities to be with loved ones and friends.
  • The atheist and agnostic will know the reality of the Creator.
  • The person who rejected belief in Jesus Christ will realize how foolish, weak and cowardly that decision was.
  • The person who comes to know the Only One who can offer salvation and abundant life will experience indescribable peace, joy and blessings.
  • The humble will be exalted.
  • The oppressed will be overcomers.
  • The defeated will be victors.
  • Sickness, suffering and death will be no more.
  • Those who have sacrificed and were denied the things of this world for the sake of the Gospel will be given the bounty of Christ’s inheritance and rule and reign with Him for eternity.
  • False religions and idols will be done away with, for the LORD will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and His name the only name (Zechariah 14:9).
  • The Lord’s name will no longer be profaned but praised.
  • The ruthless will not rule but the righteous will reign.
  • The faithless and godless will give way to the faithful and godly.
  • Sexual impurity and degeneracy will be replaced with purity and decency.
  • Wickedness, evil, violence, murders, deceit, lies, slander, thefts, envy, greed and arrogance will be subdued, for the Earth will be filled with the knowledge of the LORD (Habakkuk 2:14).
  • God’s Word will not be mocked and ridiculed but honored and obeyed.

  Our Prayer: Lord Jesus, as believers in Your name, we earnestly desire You to return and establish Your Kingdom of righteousness, peace and joy. Come Lord Jesus! Amen

• Overview of Revelation

  Click here to download as PDF.

  

  

• September 11 and End Time Prophecy

  A Biblical Perspective of the September 11 Terrorism

  The following is adapted from a message given by Bill Rudge five days after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It has proven to be amazingly accurate

  On September 11, 2001, the United States was attacked by terrorists. Two hijacked planes hit the World Trade Center towers minutes apart. A third hijacked plane struck the Pentagon, and the fourth was a foiled attempt which went down in Western Pennsylvania. As the destruction and devastation of the diabolical plans of these terrorists (which before 9/11 many thought could only happen in other nations), no one knew what was going to happen next. There was great uncertainty where they would strike next and what targets had been planned.

  Shortly after the attacks that Tuesday morning I told my staff, “You have witnessed another Pearl Harbor – only worse. This day will go down in infamy. America and the world will never be the same.”

  We had numerous e-mails, calls, and drop-ins from people thinking the end of the world had come. I assured them the end of the world had not come. There is much prophetic scripture to be fulfilled, but everyone now began to see the potential for the fulfillment of Revelation.

  A year before the 9/11 terrorist attacks I spoke at an Arab center in California. An Egyptian man, who is a Christian and chief Arabic instructor for the U.S. military, shared with me his great concern over the growing threat of Islam in America. He was troubled by their desire to change our nation politically from the inside and the growing threat of terrorist attacks against America. His words have proven to be amazingly accurate. The Muslim extremists have one goal: the destruction of Israel and America.

  While in Jerusalem I asked some Palestinian Muslims what it would take to have peace with Israel: If Israel gives back the Gaza Strip? How about the West Bank or Golan Heights? Since there were no television cameras or recording devices operating, they gave me an honest answer: There will never be peace until we push Israel into the Mediterranean Sea.

  Close Encounters

  Before we continue with this 9/11 article, I want to share a few illustrations to give you a glimpse of the mind-set and turmoil in the Middle East.

  In February 1987 while flying on a Jordanian airline, I looked at a map of the Middle East. Israel was conspicuously missing. During that trip my family experienced the trauma of nearly being hijacked in an Arab country – all because we had Israeli stamps in our passports. Can you imagine the emotional distress of being in a foreign land where they do not speak your language, have a completely different culture and mind-set, and could care less whether you live or die? (Read my Strength through Weakness booklet for a more detailed account of this harrowing ordeal in 1987.)

  While speaking to the U.S. military in October of 1990, shortly before many troops were deployed for Desert Storm, I also had an opportunity to speak in a large West German house-church. As well as American GI’s and people from East Germany, Russia, Poland, and Romania, there also was a man from Egypt. Following my message this Egyptian man told me his story. When he became a Christian, his Muslim family threw him off a train in an attempt to kill him, which resulted in the loss of his arm. This man, who had paid a tremendous price for giving his life to Christ, was requesting prayer that he may know and serve Jesus even more.

  In February 1998 I returned to Jordan and the Middle East. A Muslim friend of mine from Jordan met me in Amman and gave me a personal tour. I was treated wonderfully by everyone we met – a stark contrast to the frightening episode in Jordan in 1987.

  In Jerusalem I spoke at Sar Shalom to Messianic believers from various countries, and at Calvary Chapel of Jerusalem to predominantly Russian Jewish believers. In Jerusalem they were passing out gas masks to Israeli citizens because of the threat of Iraq’s retaliation against Israel with chemical warfare if the U.S. attacked Iraq.

  Before I headed to Egypt, Karen sent the following e-mail from the U.S. to me in Jerusalem on February 15, 1998: “We have been hearing about pro-Iraqi and anti-American demonstrations in Egypt. Have you heard anything? They are going on in Jordan too.”

  Tourists were recently killed in Egypt and there was a threat of a U.S. strike against Iraq so few Americans would go to Egypt at that time. Nevertheless, I was scheduled to speak at two youth rallies in Cairo and was not about to cancel. (Dan Nasr helped coordinate my speaking engagements in Egypt. His brother was a general in the Egyptian army and was on the same platform when Anwar Sadat was assassinated.)

  Our five-hour caravan ride through the Egyptian desert and across the Suez Canal consisted of three buses (only nine people on our bus) and a military vehicle with four armed guards in front and one at the end, as well as an armed guard on each bus. During most of the trip to Cairo the caravan traveled at 75 mph with the vehicles often only inches away so no one could cut in on us. When we stopped for gas in the Sinai Peninsula, the buses and military vehicles formed a pyramid barrier around us with armed guards standing in position between the gaps for protection from potential terrorists. It resembled a wagon train encircled in preparation for an Indian attack.

  In spite of the threat of a U.S. strike against Iraq, the people in Egypt, Israel, and Jordan were friendly. In fact, most acknowledged appreciation for our coming to the Middle East in the midst of such dangerous tensions.

  On December 25, 1998, three days before my son BJ and I left for Turkey, Osama bin Laden issued a decree stating that Muslims should attack every American in any way they could. He considered every American who pays taxes his enemy.

  Then, while we were in Turkey on January 5, 1999, Saddam Hussein called for a Jihad (holy war) against every foreigner on Muslim and Arab soil. Both of these men are gone but their ideology remains.

  Slim, a young man in Turkey, approached BJ and me at night (just as Nicodemus came to Jesus) — in fear of the Muslims as Nicodemus was of the Jews. His father was a retired ambassador for Turkey. He told us he would not be a Muslim if he was not forced to be one. He asked us if we had any evidence for our faith. He listened enthralled, but nervous, periodically looking to see if anyone was listening and possibly understanding the English we were speaking. After two hours of sharing evidence for the Bible and Jesus Christ and answering his many questions, I told him the Lord had a purpose for his life and could use him to impact his country like the apostle Paul had done in this region almost 2,000 years earlier. I shared with Slim it would probably cost him his life, but the peace, joy, and eternal life he would gain through Christ would make it worth the cost. From the U.S. we sent him books to help him grow in his relationship with Jesus Christ.

  In January 2002, I was speaking at an international pastors’ conference in Jerusalem, and to a Messianic congregation (“right down the road from where all the bombs go off” according to Rabbi Paul Bianchini). The first female suicide bomber blew herself up on the exact spot we were standing 23 hours earlier. One man was killed and 115 people were injured.

  In July of 2002 my wife traveled with me as I ministered in the Netherlands and England. In London I spoke at the Iranian center before the World Soccer Cup. I was told not to mention Israel or that I was American. The response to my message on Overcoming Giants and God’s Boot Camp was excellent from both Christians and Muslims. An elated Jordanian General visiting London came to the front and hugged me – an incredible healing from any lingering anger and nightmarish dreams I had from the near-hijacking in Jordan in 1987.

  A young lawyer at the Iranian center told me he had been imprisoned and tortured in Iran because he mentioned that maybe God is a God of love. He was eventually released and received a visa to Japan. While in Japan a little old missionary woman gave him a tract. As he read it he realized the God of love he thought about while in Iran, really did exist. He gave his life to Jesus and is now a powerful witness to the Muslims. He said if Iranians had a choice, most of them would become Christians.

  During one of several speaking engagements at the Christian Arab Center in California, the pastor introduced me to a man who had been Saddam Hussein’s English interpreter during the first Iraqi war (Desert Storm). Because the U.S. was striking so effectively, Saddam thought he was a traitor and giving the U.S. military secrets. He assured me that never happened. He said they began to beat and torture him. When asked by the guards why he was smiling when they beat him, he replied, “I am a Christian and my Bible says, ‘Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.’” After being released from prison, he obtained a visa to Jordan and eventually came to America.

  I shared these few illustrations to give you a glimpse of the mind-set and turmoil in the Middle East. Now let’s continue with our topic of 9/11.

  Strength and Unity

  I remember when I was in Haiti speaking and ministering in January 1991, I could only hear news by shortwave radio at the mission compound for thirty minutes in the evening. One night I heard that the U.S. had attacked Iraq. My country was at war and I was in a foreign land. Myself and everyone with me wanted to get home to America to stand with our country. That was the collective attitude of our nation right after 9/11.

  Immediately after the terrorist attacks I told my staff and family that three things will come out of this. First, it will unite America and make her stronger (at least temporarily). Second, it will bring many to repentance. Third, it will accelerate us toward a new world order and a one-world government.

  America was becoming soft as a nation. Like the Romans who were being entertained by all the violence in the Colosseum, we are being entertained by all the violence and filth in the media. We became weak and undisciplined – sitting around watching television and eating our junk food while nations like China train and discipline. Many Christians had left their First Love and lost their closeness, hunger, and desire for the Lord and His Word.

  In an effort to bring America to her knees, the terrorists only made us stand stronger. In an effort to weaken us, they made us far more powerful. They never dreamed their wicked scheme would unite our country and the world the way it did. But the unity in America has dissipated and our strength is visibly waning.

  Do Not Rejoice

  Sure, Americans cheered their country to victory after 9/11, but we were not cheering for innocent civilians to be killed. My heart grieved for the Iraqi people. There is a different kind of hostility and revenge that we as Americans and believers in Jesus Christ should have than those who plot and cheer for the death and destruction of men, women, and children.

  Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when he stumbles, do not let your heart rejoice, or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn His wrath away from him. Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of the wicked, for the evil man has no future hope, and the lamp of the wicked will be snuffed out (Proverbs 24:17-20).

  Most of the Arabic people I have met from Turkey, Jordan, Palestinian Territory, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and other Middle Eastern and Islamic countries, were gracious and kind. I have several Arabic friends who are believers in Jesus Christ, and I also have some Muslim friends. But the extremists who are dictating this movement of terror, and the masses cheering them on to maim and kill Americans and Israelis do not understand the implications and diabolical nature of what they are doing.

  Obadiah warns about those who cheer and rejoice when tragedy comes:

  “In that day,” declares the LORD, “will I not destroy the wise men of Edom…because of the violence against your brother Jacob… You should not look down on your brother in the day of his misfortune, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boast so much in the day of their trouble. You should not march through the gates of my people in the day of their disaster, nor look down on them in their calamity in the day of their disaster, nor seize their wealth in the day of their disaster. You should not wait at the crossroads to cut down those among them who escaped, nor hand over their survivors in the day of their trouble. The day of the LORD is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.” (Obadiah 8 – 15).

  Even after they watched on television as our nation grieved – being in our midst and seeing our people cry, families broken, and children devastated – they had no remorse. They tried to enter more planes with their knives and cutters to do who knows what, but were apprehended and their plans thwarted.

  Terrorists have infiltrated our country. They have strategies and plans that are incomprehensible. All across our nation, we need to pray for God’s protection and intervention.

  An e-mail we received from a friend in the Netherlands on Friday, September 14, 2001 is symbolic of what was happening across Europe. She wrote, “Today every one in Holland had a three-minute silence at noon. People pulled over to the side of highways, traffic stopped, work stopped, public transportation stopped, everything and everyone stopped for three minutes. They showed it on the news. From all parts of Holland and throughout Europe, there was a deadly silence that was really touching. Everywhere the flags are halfway down, like our country is in massive mourning and church services are being held everywhere. Everyone here is sympathetic.”

  Genuine Repentance?

  On Tuesday night (September 11, 2001), virtually no one was watching filth on television, going to strip clubs, reading pornography or attending the local atheist convention. People were in their homes and places of worship praying to God for help, comfort, and protection, and seeking understanding for the events that had unfolded earlier that day.

  People all across America were remorseful. I hoped that spirit of repentance would be long lasting. For many it was a genuine repentance and their hearts were truly turned back to the LORD. However, I knew that most people would return to their former lifestyles. Today, we see a nation and world given over to unrepentant behavior foretold in Revelation – sexual immorality, violence, sorcery, idolatry, thefts, and lies.

  I returned to New York City from ministering on the island of Trinidad (in the West Indies) exactly one week before the 9/11 terrorist attacks. When I had been speaking in Trinidad 12 years earlier (1989), I saw that the people in the villages were very plain, uninfluenced by the secular media. But when I was there in September of 2001, it had changed drastically. I went to a large shopping mall and was amazed to see hundreds of young people with body piercings and tattoos – dressed like prostitutes and gang members. I asked my host, “Was this here before? Did I miss it?” I was told it only came in the last five years, because now they have cable TV. America’s movies and music completely changed a whole generation of youth in Trinidad.

  As individuals and as a nation, America must truly repent and turn from the filth and corruption the media is spewing on us and our young people. We need to stand strong as Americans and call our nation out of all the immorality, atheism, occultism, and paganism that has infiltrated it, and back to its biblical foundation.

  America is still the greatest nation in the world and I am glad to be an American. However, I am even more grateful for God’s gift of salvation. My ultimate allegiance is to Jesus Christ and His Word. When America diverts from God’s Word, Christians must stand for righteousness and truth.

  Forever Changed

  On one day America and our world forever changed. It will never be the same. We will see increased surveillance, increased monitoring, increased control, and increased police and military presence. When I have traveled in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, the military is highly visible, with their machine guns in hand. We will begin to see that in America. Many of our freedoms have been taken away. But I pray that we still remain the most free and the greatest nation on this planet.

  However, terrorism will eventually be stopped. Revelation indicates a time is coming when no one can wage war against the Beast (Antichrist). One day, a world government will be in such control that no one on this planet will be able to resist its power and might.

  America has been a catalyst to unite Europe and the nations of the world. Nevertheless, it appears that in the not too distant future, a weakened America will be brought to her knees. Will terrorism, nuclear attack, invasion, moral corruption, economic collapse, internal chaos, natural disasters, or something else devastate the U.S.? Only God knows! But none of these would have ever been possible scenarios if we had not lost the blessing and protection of God because in every way possible He has been pushed out of and removed from this nation. So we need to fervently pray for this nation and its leaders.

  We need a genuine spirit of repentance across America and turning our hearts back to the LORD – before it is too late!

  We have lost many freedoms in America since the September 11 terrorist attack. The day and age of privacy has come to an end. Being anonymous anymore is almost impossible. We have seen increased security at airports, sporting events, concerts, schools, malls, government buildings, and public events. Surveillance cameras abound and even scanners that see through clothing.

  While advanced technology for identification and surveillance appears to be a necessary fact of life in this increasingly violent and information-oriented world, soon virtually every person on this planet will be monitored – and eventually controlled. More sophisticated methods of identification and compiling background information on every single human being on this planet are being developed.

  The Coming Global Society

  It is clearly visible a scenario is unfolding to create a global system of political power, economic control, military might, and religious unity. Just as Revelation predicted, we are rapidly moving toward a one-world government, a one-world monetary system, and a one-world religion.

  A leader will arrive on the world scene who will come in the guise of peace and unity – supposedly able to solve the world’s dilemmas. The book of Revelation identifies this person as the Antichrist who will take the reins of the world through deception and intrigue to ultimately lead humankind in a unified rebellion against the God of the Bible.

  The Antichrist’s cohort, identified as the False Prophet, will be as the Bible indicates, a lamb on the surface, but a dragon underneath. He will be instrumental in uniting the world’s religions into an ecumenical movement under a banner of pseudo love – falsely proclaiming everyone serves the same God. There will be tolerance and acceptance for all religions – except one, biblical Christianity. Already there is a growing movement of globalism and religious unity – but a growing intolerance for biblical Christianity. The current hostility against the terrorists will one day be redirected against biblical Christians who have the audacity to believe Jesus is the only way of salvation and who propagate supposed hate crimes from God’s Word, the Bible.

  The Antichrist and the False Prophet will attempt to attain what Satan’s goal has been from the foundation of the earth — to obtain control over and receive worship from every human being on this planet. “All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast [the Antichrist] — all whose names have not been written in the Book of Life belonging to the Lamb that was slain from the creation of the world” (Revelation 13:8).

  Discernment Needed

  The masses of the world will believe the Antichrist to be humanity’s savior, uniting the world for the common good. However, those who know the Lord and His Word, will discern his evil intent.

  If you do not know God’s Word, you will have no reliable point of reference from which to evaluate end time events. You will be utterly confused and not know who or what is really of God.

  In today’s changing and chaotic world, people turn to the Bible to make sense of confusing and difficult times. It is the people who know their God and His Word who have discernment, insight, understanding, and the answers to life and eternity. They will be empowered by God’s Spirit to boldly share their testimony of Jesus and accurately proclaim the truth of Scripture.

  Revelation 18:7–10 states: “… In her heart she boasts, ‘I sit as queen; I am not a widow, and I will never mourn.’ Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her: death, mourning and famine. She will be consumed by fire, for mighty is the Lord God who judges her. When the kings of the earth who committed adultery with her and shared her luxury see the smoke of her burning, they will weep and mourn over her. Terrified at her torment, they will stand far off and cry: ‘Woe! Woe, O great city, O Babylon, city of power! In one hour your doom has come!’ ”

  I’m not saying that New York is “Mystery Babylon.” But what happened in New York is a microcosm and a glimpse of the macrocosm of what Revelation 18 says about Mystery Babylon when it’s finally destroyed at the end of the seven-year tribulation period.

  What happened in New York City is a microcosm and glimpse of the macrocosm of what the book of Revelation describes concerning the seal, trumpet, and bowl judgments that will be meted out upon a rebellious world. No wonder Luke 21:26 says, “Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world.” But Daniel didn’t panic when the decree went out that if he continued praying to the God of the Bible, he would be thrown into a lion’s den. Daniel kept praying three times a day with his windows open towards Jerusalem. He did not panic because he knew his God.

  The year prior to 9/11 (until the present), I have not had television in my home. I have sought the Lord with all my heart and as end time events continue to unfold, it has not caused me fear – grief for my nation and the world – but not fear.

  God is bringing His people to their knees to pray and seek Him. And then empowering us to stand in His courage and strength.

  Daniel had been praying and fasting, seeking God for the end time revelation. This is what was spoken to him: “Go your way, Daniel, because the words are closed up and sealed until the time of the end. Many will be purified, made spotless and refined. But the wicked will continue to be wicked. None of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise and know their God, will understand.” (Daniel 12:9, 10).

  The Terrorists Know Three Things

  Where are the 9/11 terrorists who hijacked those planes? They are not in paradise as they were led to believe. They know more about eternity than any of us here.

  They know three things right now. First, they know the Bible is true and that every knee bows and every tongue confesses that Jesus Christ is LORD. Second, they did not receive 70 virgins for acts of terror but instead, they are the ones now terrorized. Third, the terrorists know that at the end of the Millennium they will stand before the Great White Throne Judgment of God, the Creator, to receive their eternal sentence. Because their names are not written in the Book of Life, they will be cast into the lake of fire forever.

  Where Would You Be and What Was Important to You on that Day?

  Where would you be if you were on one of those hijacked planes, or if you had been in the World Trade Center or the Pentagon? Where would you be right now? Think about it. Nothing else matters more. We are talking about eternity.

  In this life you may have seventy years of having a good time, partying with your friends, watching filthy movies – living a self-centered, pleasure-oriented lifestyle. But we are talking about eternity. Where would you be right now if that unexpected disaster took your life as it did to so many people who were thrown into eternity wondering how they got there – thinking they were going to work like any other day?

  Everyone dies – some sooner than others. Most people die unexpectedly – with little or no time to prepare for eternity. That is why you want to live each day as if it were your last – one day it will be.

  What was important to you on Tuesday, September 11, 2001? Probably not all your materialism or lusts of the flesh. Reflect on what was important to you that Tuesday – your faith, family… That is what needs to be the priority for the rest of your life.

  Take a few moments to reflect and ask yourself, “Where would I be if I were one of those fatalities?” Then ask yourself, “What was really important to me that Tuesday?” Now begin to prioritize your time, resources, and activities to reflect what should be the priorities of your life. Make each day you live centered around the Lord and His Word. What was important to you that Tuesday needs to be the priority for the rest of your life.

  Let’s Pray

  In closing, let me pray with you –

  Lord Jesus, I ask that Your Spirit would move in a way that words could never accomplish. Challenge each person reading this to turn his or her heart toward You. Cause them to renew their first love – their desire, commitment, and passion for You. Right now, cause each one to evaluate where they would be if they were dead. Seal in each person’s mind – in a way that they can never erase from their memory – what was important in their life on Tuesday, September 11. Make the focus for the rest of their lives to be on priorities with eternal significance. And if anyone reading this article would not be with You for eternity, help them right now to sincerely pray:

  Lord Jesus, please forgive me. I believe you died and rose again. I give my life to You. Please write my name in the Book of Life. I confess You as my personal Lord and Savior. Please help me to live for You the rest of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

  God Is in Control

  This world is not spiraling out of control to its futile demise. God is in control and is working behind the scenes to fulfill His purpose for the ages. We must look at unfolding global events from God’s perspective.

  As Jesus’ promised return draws near, God’s Spirit is drawing many to salvation. There is also a growing spirit of apostasy accelerating across our land and world like a jumbo jet preparing for liftoff.

  Virtually everything that has to do with the Bible is being ridiculed and pushed out of our society – and many churches. Almost anything contrary to God’s nature and Scripture is being welcomed in and embraced. Instead of learning what pleases the Lord, today’s generation dishonors Him and flaunts every imaginable behavior that is disgraceful in His eyes. Idolatrous and immoral practices are becoming the norm – not merely acceptable but actually celebrated.

  In His desire for all to come to repentance, God is giving us increasing and intensifying signs of impending judgment. Just open your eyes and you will see all around you signs which are indicating that cataclysmic events are coming unless we repent and return to Him with all our hearts.

  These birth pains of judgment, on a world that denies its Creator, blasphemes His name, distorts His truth, perverts His ways, disobeys His commandments, rebels against His standards, opposes His Word, and persecutes His followers, will increase and intensify until the birth of His Kingdom of righteousness, truth, peace, and joy.

  When Jesus returns, everything responsible for death, disease, deception, disaster, heartache, pain, and suffering will be eliminated forever. Only Jesus Christ has the key to open the door to God’s eternal Kingdom. Putting your trust in Him guarantees that your future is eternally secure.

• Wake Up and Watch!

  Bill Rudge Ministries received a letter with prophetic perception from Mrs. Valerie Graves, a pastor’s wife from upstate New York, who has read much of what Bill has written over the years, finding the teaching insightful and encouraging. Valerie described her and her husband’s adventurous trip to California, visiting their daughter who is pursuing a PhD at Berkeley. They enjoyed sunny skies and cool breezes as they toured the San Francisco Bay area and surrounding sleepy beach towns. One moment they were relaxing in the lap of luxury and the next they were fleeing for their lives as wildfires ravaged the area.

  Some of Valerie’s thoughts:

  We were to end our time in California at a lovely house on a vineyard in Sonoma Valley with a spectacular view of the surrounding area. We drove up a long driveway through a vineyard. The front lawn was meticulously landscaped with pathways leading to the front porch where welcoming rocking chairs awaited. There were pomegranate, lemon and apple trees. The inside was gorgeous with large windows to enjoy the beautiful view. It was difficult to take it all in.

  That night as I was falling asleep I remember hearing the wind outside picking up, leaves blowing against the window. My husband Charlie and I woke up at five in the morning and went downstairs to make coffee. It was still dark outside. Just as Charlie was reaching for the pot of coffee there was a loud banging on the door. Clearly something must be wrong. Then I heard shouting, “Wake up! Quick, you need to leave now. There is no time to waste.” Within five minutes we were in the car heading away from the beautiful house on the vineyard. As we headed slowly in the opposite direction of the fire in a line of traffic, we could see the sky aglow with the fire which was close.

  It was a scary night, and the moment when I realized how serious this fire was, the Lord pressed on my heart to “go back and warn My people.” It became clear the fire I was seeing was a picture of the impending judgment and that it would come suddenly and unexpectedly to all those on the earth who are living lives in the lap of luxury.

  Though we don’t see ourselves as rich, we are! We have our own homes, heated in winter and cooled in summer; we sleep on our comfortable beds and wake to warm water to bathe in and food in our cupboards to eat…Food we buy from a local store that we drive to, by the way, in our heated or cooled vehicles. We get to select the foods we enjoy (if we don’t feel like preparing it, we simply call and order our dinner) or go to a restaurant where someone brings us our food, chosen from the many options on the menu. We take breaks from our relatively easy jobs, for which we are well compensated, to go on “vacation” from our easy lives. We entertain ourselves with movies, games, shows and shopping. We paint and redecorate our homes when we become bored with them. We have so much that we have garage sales to pare down our “stuff” that has gotten out of control. We run to the doctor when we don’t feel well and our health insurance pays the tab for testing and medicine. We have gym memberships to get the exercise we need because our lives are so “cushy” we get out of shape.

  Living in all this ease, it is difficult for us to imagine that judgment will come and we will hear that sudden alarm:

  At midnight a cry was heard: “Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet Him!” (Matthew 25:6) and “Remember Lot’s wife.” (Luke 17:32)

  The Lord loves each one of us and wants us to be ready when He returns, suddenly and unexpectedly for His Bride, before He judges this world. Heed the warnings He provides through His Word. Do not prefer this world with all of its allure; the things that are coming to an end. Wake up and watch! Be ready and waiting for Him! Pray for each other and pray for the Lord to open the eyes of our unsaved loved ones. Flee from the wrath to come. Don’t look back. I sincerely believe the Lord is about to return for His church and it is His desire we all be ready! The finish line is in sight.

• What’s Ahead?

  

  by Bill Rudge

  After spending much time in prayer, fasting, and biblical research, I believe we are at a very crucial time in the history of the United States, Israel, and the world. So what’s ahead?

  The world will become more violent and immoral. Wars and rumors of wars and extreme weather conditions will intensify. There will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. Thefts, lies, and deception will be rampant. There will be increased surveillance and monitoring of virtually every detail of everyone’s lives and movement toward a world currency and government.

  Anti-God agendas will target virtually every aspect of Christianity. In contrast, occult and New Age beliefs and practices will be embraced by growing multitudes as all areas of society ― even many churches ― will be infiltrated with sorcery.

  As a result of the increase in wickedness, the love of many will grow cold. Apostasy will continue its advance. Unbiblical teachings and practices, and even more bizarre forms of entertainment, will proliferate and be accepted in many churches. False prophets will mislead many with false signs and wonders.

  Persecution of committed believers who maintain a testimony for Jesus and the Word of God will be widespread ― manifesting in every area of society from science and education to medicine and psychology. Nevertheless, the message of the Gospel will advance, as millions of people around the world come to faith in Jesus Christ ― even in Islamic countries, and regions where the Gospel is suppressed and believers are oppressed.

  Israel will face mounting pressure to sign a peace treaty to resolve the Palestinian problem. Aspirations to rebuild the Temple will come to the forefront. A seven-year peace treaty will be signed with the one the Bible foretells as the Antichrist. He will break the peace agreement midway, unleashing the worst holocaust in history.

  While the global dream of unity, prosperity, and peace will one day become a temporary reality, it will end a few years later in a worldwide nightmare of hostility, chaos, and devastation. This generation appears to be racing toward the literal fulfillment of Revelation!

  God’s patience for America and the world will finally be exhausted as He looses regional, national, and global judgment, culminating in Armageddon. Christ will then conquer the Antichrist, False Prophet, and all the ungodly forces aligned against Him, before establishing lasting peace and restoring the Earth to Garden of Eden-like conditions.

  All these signs and trends are birth pains which will ultimately lead to the birth of Messiah’s millennial kingdom. While I do not know when Jesus is coming back, I am convinced we are the generation of Christ’s second coming. We are living at a time when all believers in Jesus Christ must be faithful to Him and His Word, have discernment, stand strong, and persevere to the very end.

  Jesus said in Luke 21:29 – 36 ―

  “Behold the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they put forth leaves, you see it and know for yourselves that summer is now near. So you also, when you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.

  Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth. But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

  Although the day and age in which we are living is difficult and confusing, wisdom and strength are available to all who seek and trust the Lord. In the midst of seeming darkness and wickedness, the light and love of true believers will shine all the brighter. May you daily seek His face, diligently study His Word, purify your life, discern the signs of the times, be led by His Spirit, and remain faithful until the very end.

• Winds of Globalism

  

  by Bill Rudge

  The presidential election was many days past with many questions and concerns. Peace and joy were removed from many homes and replaced with conflicts and disagreements – sometimes outright hostility. Many people were overcome by worry and fear concerning the election and the coronavirus. However, I assured them that the only way to be at peace is to strengthen ourselves in the Lord by remembering His past faithfulness and to have a biblical perspective regarding national and world events; encouraging them to reflect on the following scriptures and how they relate to us today.

  An important and timely truth is spoken through King Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, when the ten northern tribes of Israel were removed from his control. First Kings 12:15 says, “It was a turn of events from the LORD.” Verse 24 of this same chapter reiterates this by stating: “You must not go up and fight against your relatives the sons of Israel; return every man to his house, for this thing has come from Me.”

  God’s Warning

  Daniel provides additional insight concerning the course of nations and their leaders:

  He [God] removes kings and raises up kings…. The Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes (Daniel 2:21; 4:17).

  God forewarned many times in Scripture what would happen to Israel, Judah, and other nations for abandoning the ways of the Lord and tolerating wickedness and injustice. The Bible provides and history proves what befalls a nation that forsakes the LORD Who has so richly blessed and protected them.

  During a time of ongoing wickedness and disingenuous repentance the nation of Judah wondered:

  Have You completely rejected Judah? Why have You stricken us so that we are beyond healing? We waited for peace, but nothing good came; and for a time of healing, but behold, terror! (Jeremiah 14:19).

  The idolatry, immorality and injustice of the leaders and people of Judah became so repulsive to God that Jeremiah 15:1 records these strong words:

  Then the LORD said to me, “Though Moses and Samuel stood before Me, yet My heart would not turn toward this people. Send them out of My sight, and let them go!”

  There came a point in Judah’s wickedness that it became ineffective to intercede for the nation because of its persistent unrepentance. Even prayers by Moses and Samuel would not deter judgment. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary states concerning this:

  The Lord refuses to avert judgment from His people; His decision to punish them is irreversible. Therefore the continued intercession of Jeremiah or of any others cannot succeed. The people’s incorrigibility has placed them beyond the power of prayer. Moses and Samuel would have been unable to move the Lord from His decision. The Lord commands that the nation be sent from His presence.

  Without wholehearted national repentance, Judah’s fate was sealed. Her widespread indulgence in sin and rebellion before the Lord rendered her insincere, self-serving remorse, insufficient to alter the course of God’s judgment. The question today is: How close is America to a similar fate? (A couple other enlightening sections of Scripture to read and ponder at this historic time is Jeremiah 7:1-34 and Ezekiel 33:23-33.)

  God Takes No Pleasure in the Death of the Wicked

  Excerpts follow of what Ezekiel was told by God:

  “Son of man, if a country sins against Me by committing unfaithfulness, and I stretch out My hand against it, cut off its supply of bread, send famine against it … or if I should send a plague [pestilence] against that country and pour out My wrath to cut off man and beast from it, even though Noah, Daniel and Job were in its midst, as I live,” declares the Lord GOD, “they would deliver only themselves by their righteousness. How much more when I send My four severe judgments: sword, famine, wild beasts and plague to cut off man and beast from it! When you see their conduct and actions, you will know that I have not done in vain [without cause] all that I have done,” declares the Lord GOD. “I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live” (Ezekiel 14:13-23; 33:11).

  What the Apostle John foretold in Revelation is a mirror reflection of Ezekiel’s prophecy of God’s “four severe judgments”:

  When He opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature say, “Come!” And I looked, and behold, a pale horse! And its rider’s name was Death, and Hades followed him. And they were given authority over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword and with famine and with pestilence and by wild beasts of the earth (Revelation 6:7-8).

  Don’t Gloat

  Let me briefly interject another biblical truth here: Those nations which rejoiced over Judah’s judgment would incur similar punishment. Edom is just one of several nations in the Bible God judged for hostility against His people or for “celebrating” over their demise. Excerpts follow:

  Son of man, set your face against Mount Seir [Edom], and prophesy against it and say to it, “Thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Behold, I am against you and will stretch out My hand and make you a desolation and a waste.’ Because you have said, “These two nations [Israel and Judah] will be mine, and we will possess them,” although the LORD was there, therefore as I live, declares the Lord GOD, “I will deal with you according to your anger and according to your envy which you showed because of your hatred against them. Then you will know that I, the LORD, have heard all your revilings which you have spoken against Israel and have spoken arrogantly against Me; I have heard it.” Thus says the Lord GOD, “As all the earth rejoices, I will make you a desolation. As you rejoiced over the inheritance of the house of Israel because it was desolate, so I will do to you. You will be a desolation, O Mount Seir, and all Edom, all of it. Then they will know that I am the LORD” (Ezekiel 35:2-15).

  This sounds eerily similar to what will occur after severe persecution and martyrdom of those who come to faith in Jesus Christ during the Tribulation period:

  Then the third angel poured out his bowl into the rivers and the springs of waters; and they became blood. And I heard the angel of the waters saying, “Righteous are You, who are and who were, O Holy One, because You judged these things; for they poured out the blood of saints and prophets, and You have given them blood to drink. They deserve it.” (Revelation 16:4-6).

  Forboding Winds

  While Christians are wearing each other out “fighting” over the coronavirus and politics, the real battle is already in play. To stand in the midst of what is coming we will need every ounce of strength and must be unified in genuine faith and commitment to Jesus Christ. This is a day and age to know Scripture and have discernment.

  Remember, Jesus, as well as the apostles Peter, Paul and John, warned of unprecedented difficulties and pervasive deception in the end times. It is worth noting that Jesus’ first admonition in His famous Olivet Discourse was to “Take heed that no one deceives [misleads] you” (Matthew 24:4). Therefore, Jesus’ foremost warning concerning the end times is of delusion and deceit.

  There is no doubt that the foreboding winds of global government, a one world economy and a prejudiced religious system (tolerating virtually anything but true Christianity) are blowing across America and the world. Earth’s final kingdom (Babylon) before the second coming of Jesus Christ will be a unified political, economic and religious system.

  In order to implement this global society there needs to be a crisis (or potential crisis) which generates enough fear to make the masses willing to accept the recommended solutions. The only nation powerful enough to thwart a world government and all that entails is the United States. Therefore, the U.S. has to be transformed from nationalism to globalism. This being accomplished, the global elite will be able to dictate every aspect of the lives of virtually everyone on this planet – unwittingly leading to the fulfillment of Revelation 13 and the worldwide reign of the one revealed in Scripture as the Antichrist.

  Two thousand years ago the Bible forewarned that the Antichrist would come disguised in false peace and unity. Under the pretense of solving the world’s crises he will initiate a global society with the inability to buy or sell without his mark on your hand or forehead – surrendering your total allegiance to him and his rule. Comply or die!

  For over 30 years I have warned about what is coming, striving to prepare the Body of Christ for what is now upon us. Globalists may refer to it as The Great Reset but the Bible calls it the coming kingdom of the Antichrist. What seems so brilliant and beneficial will result in the darkest and most diabolical period in human history.

  Nevertheless, we must not be discouraged or fearful, because all our future hopes and dreams are in Christ – not in ourselves, not in a political party, not in a global leader and not in a worldly kingdom. (Read John 14:1-3; Acts 1:11; 1 Corinthians 15:51-55; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18.)

  Let those who so desire to have their kingdom on this planet enjoy their day and their temporary empire: they may get what they want, but they will not want what they get (see Revelation chapters 17 and 18). This temporary time of unprecedented unity, prosperity and immorality is rapidly coming upon the world and its “church,” but it will be a unity, prosperity and immorality (anything goes) of which you will not want any part! Scripture identifies this global system as Babylon the Great, Mother of Prostitutes and of the Abominations of the Earth (17:5). No wonder God calls His people out of her “so that you will not participate in her sins and receive of her plagues” (18:4).

  Is There Hope?

  As believers in Jesus Christ, our day and eternal Kingdom is also coming – after the destruction of Babylon the Great. We will inherit all we could ever imagine or desire – and far more! Our inheritance in Christ will abundantly satisfy us for ever and ever.

  Jesus puts everything in perspective:

  What profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? (Matthew 16:26).

  Assuredly, one day the following prophecy will become a reality:

  The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever (Revelation 11:15).

  In the midst of Jeremiah’s extreme lamentations for Judah’s destruction by the Babylonians, the Holy Spirit inspired him to pen the following promise for the people of his time (and for us today):

  This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I have hope in Him.” The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him (Lamentations 3:21-25).

  What Should We Do?

  At Christ’s first coming many people expected the Messiah to provide political conquest, but Jesus came for spiritual redemption. Today, many people’s prayers and energies go toward political conquest, while God’s priority at this time is for us to share His Gospel in our local community, across cultural barriers and throughout the world (Acts 1:8). A Christian’s top priority must be for evangelism and leading others to Jesus Christ. Certainly you realize that one does not make it into the Kingdom of God because of political persuasion or even on account of good morality; access into God’s eternal Kingdom is only gained through accepting the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the atonement for our inherent sin.

  In recent years, many political factions have been determined and committed in their quest to establish their “kingdom” on this earth. How much more should followers of Christ be determined, committed – unified – in bringing people into His millennial and eternal Kingdom?

  As believers in Jesus Christ we must have greater passion in reaching people with His love and truth than in obtaining political power and control over this nation and the world. It is imperative that we focus the majority of our remaining time, energy and resources toward reaching this world for Christ before His return. May we be found faithful when He comes!

• You Are Being Watched

  

  by Bill Rudge

  Pause for a moment and think about all the new devices and technologies – vehicles, televisions, cell phones, computers, surveillance gadgets, etc. – infused with microphones, cameras and artificial intelligence. Face scanners, smart phones, smart homes, eyelid-tracking car dashboard cameras, camera-equipped drones. Devices that see, hear and track the people they encounter.

  In spite of many privacy scandals and security breaches, people are getting more accustomed to everyday uses of surveillance technology. The following are excerpts from the article, “At gadget show, surveillance is in – and in a big way” by Matt O’Brien, AP Technology Writer, in the January 7, 2020 Sharon Herald:

  All these talking speakers, doorbell cameras and fitness trackers come with the promise of making life easier or more fun, but they’re also potentially powerful spying tools.

  Someone wants to know where you are and what you are doing, saying, watching, listening to or buying. Eventually, this technology will be used to monitor and control virtually everything about you. Sounds strangely similar to the total surveillance, monitoring and control that will one day be enforced:

  And he causes all, the small and the great, and the rich and the poor, and the free men and the slaves, to be given a mark on their right hand or on their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast or the number of his name (Revelation 13:16, 17).

  Rider on White Horse

  The impact the coronavirus has had on the world brings several end time prophecies into clearer perspective. It appears we are nearing the opening of the First Seal with the Rider on a White Horse (Revelation 6:1, 2). This arising world leader, who initially comes on the scene as a savior, will be none other than the Antichrist. It is now easy to conceive of how those who defy or disobey his demands will be fined, imprisoned or eventually martyred. Many people will report the slightest violations to the authorities (Matthew 10:21; 24:9, 10).

  Sure seems like we could be on the verge of a total loss of freedom and the fulfillment of Revelation chapters 6 and 13. Take a few minutes to read these chapters and ponder the condition of your heart before God who foretold this 2,000 years ago.

  Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus!

• “Are We Living in The Last Days?” Pamphlet Amazingly Accurate

• America – The Glory is Departing

• America in Prophecy: Part 1 – The Foundation of America

• America in Prophecy: Part 2 – A Call to America! How long will our flag fly?

• America in Prophecy: Part 3 – How Long Can America Stand?

• America in Prophecy: Part 4 – Judgment Coming to America

• Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

• One Day

• Overview of Revelation

• September 11 and End Time Prophecy

• Wake Up and Watch!

• What’s Ahead?

• Winds of Globalism

• You Are Being Watched