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TO READ THE LONG, UNEDITED VERSION (15,000 WORDS) CLICK HERE

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Television & The Image That Speaks

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“And he (2nd Beast) had power to give life

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unto the image of the (1st) Beast,

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that the image of the (1st) Beast

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should both speak, and cause

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that as many as would not worship

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the image of the Beast should be killed.”

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Revelation 13:15

 

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TO READ MUCH SHORTER “TELEVISION, IMAGE OF THE BEAST” ARTICLES, CLICK HERE

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TELEVISION: GREATEST INVENTION EVER! 

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Is the above title true? Is television indeed, the greatest invention ever?

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Well, probably many people have many different ideas about that question. But one thing is for sure: television has had an enormous impact upon the world!

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And it has found its way into more and more homes around the world, in ever-increasing numbers.

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Truly in many households, it has become the centerpiece of life!

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And it makes a wonderful babysitter for the young, and a faithful friend to the old and to the infirm and to the confined.

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Family watching television, c. 1958 – Wikipedia – public domain

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FROM “LEAVE IT TO BEAVER” TO “BEVIS & BUTTHEAD”

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But television has not remained constant.

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Television has devolved from a somewhat quasi-moral beginning, and has gradually devolved down, down, down, into deeper and deeper decadence and immorality.

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Since its first appearance in the mid 20th Century, it has morphed from a “Leave It To Beaver” mentality to a…well…let it suffice to say: it’s less than it once was, to put it mildly.

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Cleaver family from the television program Leave it to Beaver. – Wikipedia – Public Domain

Beavis And Butthead – cropped picture – Wikipedia – Fair-Use RationaleClick here for Fair-Use Rationale Guidelines – Image germane to this story – Could not find suitable free replacement on Internet – reduced size & quality

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A FORM OF GODLINESS

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But be not deceived, O Pilgrim of the Cross!

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Just because there are still some seemingly nice shows on TV, don’t be fooled by such “innocence”.  

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Television has about it an insidious evil, which is as subtle as that double-tongued old Serpent in the Garden who deceived our first parents.

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And its chief target is the unsuspecting Christian family!

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And this article will lightly explore some of these subtle deceptions, which are spoiling God’s vineyard: deceptions so insidious, that most Christians are not even aware of!

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Brown tree snake – Boiga – Wikipedia – Public Domain

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DEAF & DUMB IDOLS OF OLD…

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Never before in the history of mankind, has there been an image which could speak!

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Through the ages, people around the world have created their idols: Idols of wood! Idols of stone!

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Idols of silver or gold! Idols that couldn’t walk, talk, or do anything good…or anything evil! 

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The Obsequies of an Egyptian Cat – Wikimedia – Public Domain

 

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BIBLE SPEAKS OF DUMB IDOLS…

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Concerning the idols of the world, Scripture says…

…”For the customs of the people are vain:

for one cuts a tree out of the forest…

They deck it with silver and with gold;

they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.

They are upright as the palm tree, BUT SPEAK NOT:

they must needs be carried, because they cannot go.

Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil,

neither also is it in them to do good.”

Jeremiah 10:3-5 [condensed] 

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Notice that Scripture says these idols “speak not”, and also ” for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good”.

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But also notice that it says here, “BE NOT AFRAID OF THEM; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good.”

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So then, if we shouldn’t be afraid of mere lifeless images, then what about an image that CAN talk…and CAN do evil?

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Well, the obvious inference here is, yes, those kinds of images we should be very afraid of!

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Picture-Gold Calf – Wikipedia – public domain

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A TALKING IMAGE FORETOLD…

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Almost 2,000 years ago, the Apostle John, was given the Revelation, in which God prophesied that Satan would, in the last days, create an image which would be given life!

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This image WOULD be able to speak… 

…”And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast,

that the image of the beast should both speak…“.

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And this image would, “cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed”.`

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So, this passage foretells of a day in which Satan will create a TALKING IMAGE.

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And this talking image will have the power to cause Christians to be killed! 

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John on Patmos – wikigallery – public-domain

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TALKING IMAGE NOW HERE…

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So, 2,000 years later, we have arrived at a day in which this particular Bible prophecy is now possible!

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Never before in history was such a thing devised!

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Never before was such a subtle and sinister image imagined as a reality!

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But we now have an image that can speak to almost the entire world!

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We now have an image that can teach…almost the entire world!

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We have an image that can talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year…right in the very midst of our own living room!

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It is the centerpiece of the American home, and fast becoming the centerpiece of homes around the world! A talking image! Incredible!

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Academy Awards Ceremony – cropped image – Wikipedia – share alike lic.

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WHY NO FEAR?

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IMAGINE! The Bible prophesied about this, 2,000 years ago!

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You would think that knowing this, the people would be very alarmed. But we’re not!

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We all too often have a ho-hum, laissez-faire attitude toward this most revered (and yet malignant) member of our family!

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Yes, you could say that television is the proverbial, “Soma”, for the great masses of humanity!

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Just as that drug, Soma, kept the masses self-satisfied in that infamous novel, so too, television keeps us and our children in a semi-hypnotic-like state!

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It is even the designated babysitter in many homes!

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Academy Awards Ceremony – Wikipedia – share alike lic.

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LUCIFER NOW, “THE GOD OF THIS WORLD”

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And so, God, for His own eternal purpose, allowed, “that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan”, to tempt Mankind into sin and rebellion.

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At that point, Mankind had traded God away for a new Master…“the god of this world“, the Devil.

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Now at that moment the Earth and all its inhabitants had been taken captive by this master deceiver.

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But in spite of Man’s rebellion, God had left open the door of mercy. Mankind still had the ability to return back to God.

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But Lucifer, in his jealous hatred, was not content to allow Mankind such an easy access back to God. 

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And so, Lucifer went to work to create his new kingdom, turning it into a place which fallen Mankind could not and would not find their way back into God’s sheepfold.

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And through his own “Workers of Iniquity”, Lucifer worked tirelessly to create his kingdom, the mighty Babylon.

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The kingdom of sin and selfishness.

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And it is Satan’s purpose to invent new ways to keep the human race from turning back to God.

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And of course, television (and Internet, radio, etc.) is one of his crowning achievements in his warfare against Heaven! 

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Gustave Dore – Paradise Lost illustration – Lucifer becomes Satan – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

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“TELE-VISION” = “TALKING VISION”

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(OR “TALKING IMAGE”)

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Tele-vision is composed of two root words: “Tele” and “Vision”, which obviously mean a, “talking vision” (or “talking image”).

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Of course, Scripture points out…

…”And he (the False Prophet) had power to give life unto the image of the beast,

that the image of the beast should both speak,

and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.”

Revelation 13:15.

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And so, television, even by its very own name, seems to fulfill this 2,000 year old prophecy!

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The Prince of the Power of the Air (waves?) appears to have achieved his ultimate weapon against God and against God’s people! (see Ephesians 2:2). 

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“AND MY PEOPLE LOVE TO HAVE IT SO”

Jeremiah 5:31 

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And so often, God’s people plop our children right down in front of this electronic Pied-Piper, perhaps every day.

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And our children are being more and more conformed to this serpent-like talking-image every single day, right under our noses!

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And the Bible foretold that this would happen!

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Is this not amazing!? Of course, you would expect the people of the world to do these things.

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But we who claim to love God and follow the Bible should be deathly afraid of this talking-image-maker, known as television!

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TV – highquality – Wikimedia – Creative Commons License

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A CASE HEREIN PRESENTED…

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“I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. 

I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes:”

Psalm 101:2, 3

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Now the Bible never says the name, “television”.

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And we need to be careful, not to add anything to God’s Word (see Revelation 22:18).

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And we need to keep an open mind, that there may be much more to this “image that speaks”, than just television.

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Berlin neukoelln – TV satellite dishes – cropped image – Wikimedia – C.C. Share-alike License

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TO LOVE THIS SELFISH WORLD

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IS TO LOVE THE gOD OF THIS SELFISH WORLD!

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And so, Satan works undercover, so as to make the world believe that he doesn’t exist.

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And thus, having erased himself out of existence, he then creates a world, filled with idols…which are tokens of his attributes. 

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By so-doing, he accomplishes his grand scheme…to gain the homage he desires, by causing Earth’s inhabitants to love this present sinful and selfish world.

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Listen… “And they (the people of the world)

worshipped the dragon (Satan)

which gave power unto the beast:

and they worshipped the beast,

saying, Who is like unto the beast?

who is able to make war with him?”

Revelation 13:4.

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And so, this passage is fulfilled, simply by the people of the world, loving this world-system, with all its selfish wares and ways.

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New York Times Square – terabass – cropped image – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

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BEFORE GOING INTO THE SPECIFIC SUBJECT OF TELEVISION, IT MIGHT BE WELL TO SPEND A FEW MINUTES DISCUSSING THE WORKINGS OF SATAN, AND HOW THE PEOPLE OF THIS WORLD RELATE TO HIM. SO, THIS NEXT LITTLE SECTION WILL BE DEVOTED TO JUST THAT.

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ANTICHRIST IS THE WORLD-SYSTEM

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There are many who mistakenly believe that the Antichrist Beast is going to be one single individual: perhaps a businessman or religious leader.

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And because they are so locked into this notion, they tend to ride rough-shod over this passage from Revelation Chapter 17, which explains what this Beast actually is.

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Listen… “The beast that thou sawest was, and is not;

and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit…

And here is the mind which hath wisdom.

The seven heads are seven mountains,

on which the woman (the apostate Church) sitteth.

And there are seven kings…

And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, ”

Revelation 17:8-13

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So, this Antichrist Beast, which, by the way, is in the image of the Dragon of Revelation 12, is a composite of various kingdoms and various kings.

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And if we’re going to let the Bible be its own interpreter, then we cannot conclude that this Beast is one single individual.

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This Beast is, in actuality, this present antichrist-world-system, headed up by that serpent of old, the Devil, and Satan, as he has controlled various kings and kingdoms over the past millenniums of time. 

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This above old picture is one of many which came out of the Great Reformation, and shows that the Christians of that day believed that the apostate church, riding this multi-faceted beast, was a picture of the Mystery Harlot and the Antichrist Beast of Revelation!

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(These two above pictures of the Mystery Harlot are hundreds of years old, but allegorically depict Satan’s government.) 

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Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

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ANTICHRIST NOT GROTESQUE MONSTER

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And this is what the Mark of the Beast is actually all about, when you really think about it.

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This present World-System, and all its loyal citizens comprise Satan’s Antichrist Beast.

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Listen to Scripture…

…”Little children, it is the last time:

and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come,

even now ARE THERE MANY ANTICHRISTS;

whereby we know that it is the last time.”

1st John 2:18.

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From this verse it becomes evident that an Antichrist is not some hideous monster. It is not some diabolical Dr. Evil (as this picture portrays.)

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No, there are many Antichrists. And they are merely the people of this fallen world ruled over by, “the god of this world”… Satan!

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Just listen… “and this is that [spirit] of antichrist…They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.” 1st John 4:3, 5.

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Okay, so antichrists are of the world, speak of the world, and the world listens to them.

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Lucifer – cropped and altered image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0

 

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“THEY (the peoples of the world)

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SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST”…

Revelation 13:14

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Television is Satan’s Ultimate Mind-Control Device! It is a very powerful medium.

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The music, the lighting, the drama, the false goodness.

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Television, Internet, radio, etc., possess a powerful persuasion that is often more than Human-kind can resist.

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As one famous Nazi commander once put it, “If you tell a lie often enough and loud enough, eventually people will begin to believe it!”

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And television, not only tells such lies 24/7/365, but also dresses up those lies, making them look and sound very appealing, mingling them with truth and beauty. 

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But what does this have to do with “Me” making an image to the Beast? After all, I’ve never even carved one single statue in my lifetime!

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But wait! If my character becomes conformed to the qualities which our modern-media society compels us to conform to…then I become an image…and image to the beast…and ultimately, into an image of Satan, though to a lesser degree! 

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In a very real sense, I have carved an idol in my heart!

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IMAGE IS IN MY HEART

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So now it begins to be seen that this image is much more than just television.

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It really has to do with just who is sitting upon the throne of my heart.

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What or who a person worships, is really about whoever a man, or woman, or child gives homage to; and the modern media is all about character. Satan’s character!

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Just listen… “And (the False Prophet) deceiveth them that dwell on the earth…

saying to them that dwell on the earth,

that they should make an image to the beast…”

Revelation 13:14.

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Now obviously, not every person is making a television, are they?

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But those in the world who are being conformed to the image of the Beast are making an image, right in their very own heart!

 

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HABAKKUK’S WARNING

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Listen to Habakkuk…

“Therefore the law is slacked,

and judgment doth never go forth:

for the wicked doth compass about the righteous;

therefore wrong judgment proceedeth.” 

Habakkuk 1:4.

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This verse is from Habakkuk and is the essence of what the Book of Habakkuk is all about: that God’s people are surrounded by unbelievers, causing wrong judgment to come forth from God’s camp.

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Brooklyn Museum: The Second Denial of Saint Peter (Deuxième reniement de Saint Pierre)

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HABAKKUK ALL ABOUT FLEEING

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The Book of Habakkuk is about fleeing from the overwhelming influence of Chaldeans (Antichrists).

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Chaldeans merely represented the people of the world who would eventually surround God’s people to the point that God’s people were commanded to flee.

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Listen… “For the vision is yet for an appointed time,

but at the end it shall speak,

and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it;

because it will surely come,

it will not tarry.”

Habakkuk 1:4 & 2:2, 3.(Condensed) 

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(You may wish to read the article…The Fleeing Revelation 12 Woman Constellation: What is the Message of Habakkuk?)

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Habakkuk by James Tissot – Wikimedia Commons – US public domain

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WORLDLY ASSOCIATIONS

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Yes, God has allowed the people of the world to surround His people.

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God has allowed His people to be corrupted by worldly associations, just as He allowed the Jews the same.

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But at the end, God will call His people out from among them.

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And this is what the Book of Habakkuk is all about.

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PS Krøyer – Hip hip hurra! – Kunstnerfest på Skagen – 1888 – Wikimedia – Public Domain

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“(UNBELIEVERS SHALL BE)…THORNS IN YOUR SIDE”

Numbers: 33:55. 

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This is perhaps one of the most important concepts in Scripture…

…”Wherefore I also said,

I will not drive them out from before you;

but they shall be as thorns in your sides,

and their gods shall be a snare unto you.”

Judges 2:3. 

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All those OT stories about the children of Israel rooting out the enemies were merely metaphorical pictures of what Christians must do in our own heart and mind. 

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Just listen… “And every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” 1st John 3:3.

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Notice this verse says, “EVERY MAN that has this hope in Him (Jesus), purifies himself…”.

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The purification of the heart as Christ is pure, is not an option, but, a must! Everyone who names the name of Christ must depart from iniquity!

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judges 7-Gideon & The 300-www.thebiblerevival.com-public domain

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DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRUE & FALSE

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So here we see the difference between a true child of God, and “false brethren”.

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The false brethren love this world and have no desire to be fully purified into Christ’s image.

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Oh yes, they are very happy to put Jesus on a pedestal and to venerate Him. But never to become like Him within!

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To be Christ-like requires death-to-self. And death-to-self would be far too great of a sacrifice for any worldly-minded “Christian”.

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To let Jesus “live out His holy life through me”, is far more than most church-goers are willing to accept! “Let’s just put Him on a pedestal, and honor Him!”  

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MARK OF THE BEAST = IDEALS OF THE HEART

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If you or I have the attributes of this Antichrist-World-System guiding our lives, then, in essence, we have the Mark of the Beast.

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On the other hand, if we have the virtues and attributes of Jesus guiding our lives, we then have God’s seal in our foreheads (“in our forehead” actually means, in our heart and mind—see Deuteronomy Ch. 6:6-8).

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To put it concisely, it’s all about, “just who is ruling my heart?”.

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Our hearts and minds must be totally purified, and filled with godly thoughts. 

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Listen to Paul’s confession… “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4;13.

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If a Christian is willing to stay in the battle and fight that “Good Fight”, he or she will eventually overcome in every area of life!

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BATTLEFIELD OF THE HEART

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God has spoken this very same concept, in more peaceful terms… “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee!” Isaiah 26:3. 

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Here is a more pleasant way of saying the very same thing Paul just spoke of…  

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ABOVE PICTURE: Battle for the heart – www.signsofheaven.org

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AN ELEGY TO TELEVISION…

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Up until about the mid-twentieth century, probably very few people would ever have imagined that some electronic device emitting sights and sounds was soon to become the centerpiece of our society, of our homes and of our lives.

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Yes, television (& Internet & radio) is truly a remarkable invention!

It is a powerful tool… 

It can change minds…

It can marshal armies…

It can shift the paradigm of societies…

It can win elections…

It can ruthlessly mock its enemies, even to the point of suicide, if necessary…

It can frighten us! It can pacify us…

And it can tell us what to wear, how to talk, what to do, what to think, what to love, and even who to hate!

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Television can be our best friend (and our worst enemy!). But it’s always willing to be our comforter.

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Because with just the click of a button, this “Electronic Prince of the Power of the Airwaves” will ride to our rescue; to save us from our loneliness…from our boredom!

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When nobody else wants to be with us, it never turns us away.

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Yes, this modern-day marvel has become the perfect “friend”!

It lives to entertain us…

It loves to make us smile! Make us laugh…

To satisfy us with gossip…

Make us cry…

To sooth us with beautiful music…

And this master storyteller will enchant us throughout the day with just about any type of tale we desire!

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Berlin neukoelln – TV satellite dishes – Wikimedia – C.C. Share-alike License

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Television is the proverbial “Needy Clown”, yearning to be adored, and willing to do or say anything to get such adoration…

It is often seductive, sensual…

It’s original…

Or campy…

Or stupid…

Or even intellectual, at times…

It can be beautiful…

Charming…

Witty…

Wise…

Foolish…

Humanitarian…

Revengeful…

Loving…

Hateful…

Right…

Wrong…

Greedy…

Generous…

Good…

Evil…

It is the ultimate, “be-all, end-all”, of our needs and desires!

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Television is the Magnificent Sorcerer! It will bewitch us, performing its magic before our very eyes! It will seduce us as it sexualizes us (and sexualizes our children, too!) 

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TV icon novela svg. – Wikimedia –

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It is the Great Deceiver and False Prophet, with all its so-called humanitarian concerns, making us think it cares…really, really cares!

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And with all such so-called, and pretentious compassion and virtues, it will indoctrinate us into a conformity to this fallen world. (“And be not conformed to this world:” Romans 12:2.)

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TV – highquality – Wikimedia – Creative Commons License

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Television is the Ultimate Pied Piper of Hamlin!

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It is as wily and subtle as that serpent in the garden, as it utters its vague innuendos against the Bible and those who love the Bible.

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It can make good appear as evil, and make evil appear as good!

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And it will lead us down that proverbial “primrose pathway”.

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And television will take us and our children down, down, down…to the place we would not want to go, if we really understood the situation…as God sees it.

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And if it can rule the world, it can certainly rule my heart!

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In other words, my dear darling soul, television/Internet/radio are exactly like Lucifer (Satan), and exactly like his World of Sin; with just the same attributes of “the prince of this world”. (John 12:31, etc…)

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And as the “the god of this world”, this Pied Piper of Sheol has all the supernatural powers to do all these things!

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Yes, television is the ultimate “Charming Gigolo”.

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And he’s right there in the midst of our living room, seducing us and our children!

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And ultimately, this Hell-sent gigolo will rob us of everything we might possess, that has any eternal value, only to leave us desolate & very bankrupt on that Great & Fearful Day of God Almighty!

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Beware, O My Soul, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners (character).” 1st Corinthians 15:33

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THE 7 OBJECTIVES OF SATAN’S TELEVISION…

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1. To be a time-waster, so we don’t spend our time searching the Scriptures. ( “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:16

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2. To indoctrinate the masses to follow the, “acceptable standards” of this world…Satan’s World”! (“And (the False Prophet) deceives them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast.” Revelation 13:4)

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3. To create a false standard of righteousness; a counterfeit of the true standard of righteousness, revealed in the Bible. To yoke us together with those who have a form of godliness, but deny the power thereof. (“For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, etc…. HAVING A FORM OF GODLINESS, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. ” 2nd Timothy 3:2, 5)

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4. To create prejudice and even hatred against sincere, dedicated Christians. (“Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.” 1st John 3:13)  

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5. To ultimately lead the world to worship the god of this world, Satan. (“and all the world wondered after the beast. And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast:” Revelation 13:3, 4)

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6. To excite and titillate our senses so much, that Bible study seems boring. (“…having their conscience seared with a hot iron;”  1st Timothy 4:2). When we rely on television to entertain us, it often becomes more and more difficult to open our Bibles and just read or study.

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7. To blunt the conscience by exposing us to sinful behavior, over and over each day. (“Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. 1st Corinthians 15:33″) When we behold sin, over and over again on TV, sin begins to lose its fearfulness and horror.

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Just look at this unwatchful Christian in this above drawing. He’s filled up his life with so much Mammon, he’s not aware that his Judgment Day is here!

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ARGUMENTS AGAINST TV NEWS…

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Well, what’s wrong with watching a little nightly news? A number of things.

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1. NEWS DEADENS THE CONSCIENCE. Listen to Scripture…

“Who among us shall dwell with the Devouring Fire?

who among us shall dwell with Everlasting Burnings? 

He that walks righteously…

that stops his ears from hearing of blood,

and shuts his eyes from seeing evil”

Isaiah 33:14, 15.

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This above verse tells us just who will stand in the Day of Judgment: those who shut their eyes from seeing evil, and their ears from hearing violence.

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As children of God, we don’t want to dwell on crime and violence…

…”Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true…

honest…just…pure…lovely…

of good report…virtue…praise,

think on these things!”

Philippians 4:8.

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Does television fulfill this Bible verse? Of course not!

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TV – ABC-Good Morning America – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

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2. NEWS IS HABIT-FORMING.

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This fallible pen can personally testify that TV news is habit-forming. It can be a real time-thief!

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Paul warns Believers... “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:15, 16.

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Christians should be hiding God’s Word in our hearts, during our leisure hours.

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Obviously this cannot be accomplished when we are preoccupied with TV…or Internet…or radio.

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Internet addiction prisoner – wikipedia – creative commons lic.

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3. THE SPIRIT OF GOSSIP. Have you ever noticed that when you are with friends, and they begin to share some new gossip, how your ears perk up?

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TV or radio news can be, quite often, a form of gossip, and only strengthens that desire within us.

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Gossips in the Altstadt in Sindelfingen, Germany. – Sally Kennison – share-alike license – Wikimedia Commons

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4. “EVIL COMMUNICATIONS CORRUPTS GOOD MANNERS”… Many of us Christians think that we can just watch news and not be affected by TV or radio news. But in this we deceive ourselves!

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Listen to 1st Corinthians 15:33… “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”  

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We who are running the Christian race quite often are deceived into thinking that we can dabble a little bit in the world.

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But in order to gain a Christ-like character, even a, “little foolishness will destroy much wisdom”(Ecclesiastes 10:1). 

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Oh yes, we can’t help but mingle with unbelievers in the workplace, etc….

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But to voluntarily expose ourselves to the ungodly chatter of unbelievers for the sake of enjoyment…is not a wise course at all for a Christian!

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But does this mean we must lock ourselves up in our houses and never go out?

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No, it just means that we should take heed to what we do and who we expose ourselves to.

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Listen to Scripture…

…”Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers:

for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?

and what communion has light with darkness?” 2nd Corinthians 6:14 

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ABOVE PICTURE – fall & winter Constellations – Woman of Revelation 12 (Ursa Major, a winter constellation) flees to the mountains – Mark 13:14 – Dragon comprised of Hyades, Pleiades, etc…Valley of Decision mountain comprised of Cassiopeia, etc… (This is not a star-chart, but merely a concept picture since this mountain is not in this position, but is actually seen in the fall months)

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5. PHILOSOPHY AND VAIN DECEIT… Have you noticed how Christians today mingle the purity of the Gospel with politics and conspiracy theories of various types? I

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t is so important for us to not mingle our belief with the various ideologies of the world.

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Colossians is largely based on this idea, and warns against mingling worldly philosophies into the purity of Christ (see Colossians 2:8). 

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1st Timothy also warns… “…keep thyself pure.” 1st Timothy 5:23.

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If we needlessly expose ourselves to these corrupting influences, for social enjoyment, our purity will soon evaporate, and the result will be a “mingling of the holy with the common.” (see Ezekiel 22:26). When a Christian freely mingles with such common things, the following verse stands as a warning…“Quench not the Spirit.” 1st Thessalonians 5:19 

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CNBC NJ HQ – Wikipedia – share alike license

 

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6. OVER-STIMULATION… Isn’t it true that the exciting amusements of the world tend to make our Bible studies rather boring?

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Well, news can accomplish such an over-stimulation of our senses. It’s much easier and more pleasurable to just sit back and watch gossip and conspiracies and wars and controversies on the news, than it is to sit down with Bible and concordance, isn’t it?

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Again, this same verse applies… “Quench not the Spirit.” 1st Thessalonians 5:19 

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Berlin neukoelln – TV satellite dishes – Wikimedia – C.C. Share-alike License

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7. BAD WITNESS TO OTHERS… And just think about the example I am setting for others! My kids…my grandkids… fellow Christians, neighbors, etc.. Even if they aren’t with me, they can guess what Mom and Dad, or Grandma and Grandpa are doing! My neighbors will see that certain glow from my window. And they know that glow is not an angel visitation (But actually it is…angels from HELL!) It’s the glow from my TV! And the next day, I certainly WON’T have Heaven’s glow on my face which tells the world I’ve, “been with Jesus” Acts 4:13.

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But also, setting in front of our TV, is setting a bad example for others to follow. And we just don’t realize what a powerful influence for good or evil, that our example is (see Mark 9:42).

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ABC-Good Morning America – Wikipedia – share-alike license

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MOVIES

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Quite often in the movies, Christians are portrayed as weak and defenseless, like a flock of nervous little birds.

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On the other hand, the hero of the story is often portrayed as strong, and handsome, and brash, and fearless, usually saving the Christians from the bad guys.

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Of course, this kind of astigmatism against Christians is right out of Satan’s playbook! 

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But another lesson learned from such a movie situation is to be more like the hero of the movie, relying on his own bravery and strength to solve his dilemma.

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Five Fingers Face – High and Mighty Trailer Screenshot- 1954 – Wikipedia – public domain

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SATAN OFTEN MISREPRESENTS MANLINESS IN MOVIES

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Along these same lines, Satan sets up a standard of conduct for his kingdom (this world).

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And in so-doing he has used the television and movie industry to promote the idea that men are less-than-men if they display tenderness and compassion toward others.

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And so, Christ, who is the very embodiment of tenderness and pity does not measure up to Satan’s standards for men.

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This also is right out of Satan’s playbook, in how this Master-Deceiver makes men fearful of appearing less than “manly”, if they display any softness and tenderness.

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But listen to Scripture…

…”Finally, be ye all of one mind,

having compassion one of another,

love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:

Not rendering evil for evil,

or railing for railing:

but contrariwise blessing;

knowing that ye are thereunto called,

that ye should inherit a blessing.”

1st Peter 3:8, 9.

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Martin,_John_-_Satan_presiding_at_the_Infernal_Council_-_1824wikipedia public domain

 

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CHRIST, THE TRUE EXAMPLE OF MANLINESS

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Just who would you rather have ruling the universe?

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Perhaps, one of the Greek gods? Zeus maybe? Or perhaps Jupiter? (picture to right).

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Well, they were both given very hard attributes, weren’t they?

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Just imagine if one of those gods were ruling this world? (Well actually, as we look around, we have to admit that Satan is doing a fine job of giving us a picture of how those pagan gods would behave!)

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We are extremely fortunate to have a tender, understanding, and compassionate God, Jehovah, who runs this universe!

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On the other hand, we can see how things would be run, if Lucifer was the god of this universe.

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All we have to do is just look at this present world around us, and we can see the results of what a lack of compassion can accomplish.

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Hans Thoma – Jupiter – Wikipedia – public domain

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SPORTS TELEVISION

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1. UNCHRISTLIKE CHATTER. Like most shows on television, sports shows are presented with ungodly chatter.

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Unmerciful mocking, sang-froid nonchalance, joking and jesting which work in us like yeast, until we become like the unbelieving world, in oneness and purpose…

…”Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers:

for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?

and what communion hath light with darkness?”

2nd Corinthians 6:14

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2. COMPETITIVE VIOLENT SPIRIT. The Spirit of Christ is the Spirit of meekness, gentleness, patience, kindness, generosity…

…Obviously, these are not the qualities which are exemplified during sports contests…

…”Be not deceived:

evil communications corrupt good manners.”

1st Corinthians 15:33 

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Super Bowl XLIII Thunderbirds Flyover Feb 1 2009 – Wikipedia – Public Domain

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COMEDY TELEVISION

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1. THE SPIRIT OF JESTING. Please observe Scripture…

“And walk in love, as Christ…

But…uncleanness, or covetousness,

let it not be once named among you,

as becometh saints;

NEITHER FILTHINESS,

NOR FOOLISH TALKING, NOR JESTING,

which are not proper:

but rather giving of thanks.”

Ephesians 5:2-5. 

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Jesus came to Earth to present himself as an example to the world.  Jesus is the role-model for all the host of Heaven and Earth. 

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It’s only this rebellious planet which doesn’t feel the need to imitate our loving Savior. Christ is joyful, but not frivolous.

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He is loving, but is not a “court-jester”

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(To read more on this subject, please read the 4-part article…(How a Joke Killed! Part 1)

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Puck Cover – Wikipedia – public domain

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CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS

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1. SPIRIT OF SENSUALITY. Quite often the programs for little children are fraught with sexuality.

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This comes in the form of either the music…or the actors, who are dressed in a provocative manner.

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Or perhaps the theme of the program.

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2. VIOLENCE. Children’s programs often have violence mingled within.

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3. GROOMING CHILDREN FOR FURTHER WICKEDNESS.

Even those programs which seem “harmless” are only grooming children to eventually watch other shows, even more degrading, which lead children further into sin.

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4. ANTICHRIST PHILOSOPHIES TAUGHT.

The television makes a very convenient babysitter.

The problem is, it is Lucifer, the, “Prince of the Power of the Air”, who becomes your babysitter!

And his qualities of pride, anger, greed, unbelief in God’s Word, atheism, violence, etc., are instilled into the children’s minds!

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EDUCATIONAL TELEVISION

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1. ATHEISM. Many educational programs are produced by atheists, and mingled with atheist philosophies.

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Atheism is the spirit of “unbelief”.

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Such Antichrist ideologies are like yeast, working themselves imperceptibly through the hearts and minds of viewers.

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And no matter whether or not the adult or child becomes an atheist as a result, there is nevertheless a spirit of unbelief transferred to the participant, which begins to doubt the power of God to fulfill His promises.

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2. UNGODLY CONVERSATION. When we choose to become a companion with the world, we begin to reflect the image of those with whom we associate.

For a detailed explanation of this, click the following link… “Mercury & The Image Of The Beast”

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RELIGIOUS TV

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1. COUNTERFEIT JESUS’. As earlier stated, “Satan by any other name, is still Satan”. Just because religious television shows are constantly invoking and evoking the name, “Jesus”, does not necessarily mean the, “Jesus of Scripture”.

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Paul complained that there were false teachers who proclaimed “Another Jesus, who we have not preached” 2nd Corinthians 11:4.

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So when such religious stations misrepresent the true Gospel with a gospel mingled with worldly desires, they are proclaiming, “another Jesus”. Let no man deceive you, O Pilgrim!

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2. COMMERCIALISM. It is very expensive to produce TV programs, compared to, say, radio or Internet.

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Television requires a large audience, in order to financially support the stations.

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So then, they often compromise with the world in order to increase ratings.

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Popular music, excitement, celebrities, theatrical displays, etc., are now the order of the day in the Christian community, because of television. 

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3. “PROPHESY SMOOTH THINGS TO US” Isaiah 30:10. Furthermore, television must be careful to not offend its faithful audience.

So religious stations must be careful what they say, and what they do. What is the result?

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The following verse seems to state our present crisis in the Christian culture…

…”For the time will come

when they will not endure sound doctrine;

but after their own lusts

shall they heap to themselves teachers,

having itching ears;

And they shall turn away their ears from the truth,

and shall be turned unto fables.”

2nd Timothy 4:3, 4 

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4. MILK, BUT VERY LITTLE MEAT. Religious shows usually present the most basic, entry-level Bible concepts.

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And it’s so easy and convenient for Christians to just leave the religious channel on all day.

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And as a result, the Christian begins to rely more and more upon the religious channel for his or her spiritual food and drink.

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The problem is, because it’s mostly “milk” and not “meat”, the TV-watching Christian’s spiritual growth is stunted. 

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Infant_with_baby_bottle-© Michael Jastremski for wikipedia-sharealike license

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5. ” And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.” 2nd Peter 2:2

… Because television is such an expensive medium, there is a constant pressure upon these well-meaning religious channels to constantly talk about money.

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In other words, these “prosperity gospels” will quite often repulse the general public, who understand that the lowly Jesus was nothing like what they are seeing on such shows. 

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And so, these religious shows serve a dual purpose. They deceive their followers into a “Gimme! Gimme!” gospel.

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But at the same time, they repulse the more savvy general public, causing “the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.”

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And if there’s one thing the Devil knows how to do, it’s to cast dirt on the Bible!

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Rolls Royce5316 – Wikipedia – public domain

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6. MINGLING WORLDLY IDEAS WITH TRUTH…

There are so many religious talk shows, mostly on the radio, which mingle politics with the Bible truth.

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These religious/political shows become hyper-critical of this group or that group, or of the government.

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The focus of these shows becomes just how to make this world a better place, and how people can change the world.

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But this is not what the Bible is concerned about. Our focus as Christians should be about “how I can become changed into the image of Christ”, and, “how I can spread the love of Jesus to those around me.” 

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Sony Walkman radio – Wikipedia – share-alike license

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7. CHRISTIAN MOVIES PRESENT WRONG IMAGE…

TV can be very subtle. There are even a few shows about Christians on TV.

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And so often on these so-called “Christian” shows, compromising and worldly Christians are presented as good and rational and very acceptable, while the serious and dedicated Christians quite often are portrayed as being fanatical, slightly off-balanced mentally…

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“…UPON ALL PLEASANT PICTURES”

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“For the day of the LORD of hosts

shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty…

and upon all pleasant pictures…

Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils:

for wherein is he to be accounted of?”

Isaiah 2:12, 16-18, 20-22.(Condensed)

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This above passage really nails down just what the Day of the Lord is all about!

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We live in a world today, in which the False Prophet, Satan, the Dragon, is using the high-tech devices to present lying images to draw disciples after him.

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The Internet, the television, radio, magazines, books, movies, etc., are all churning out pleasant pictures, which portray this evil world in a very appealing manner.

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These pictures often incorporate the beauty of nature together with the glory and beauty of Mankind.

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Notice that Satan combines the three great sins in these pictures… “The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” 1st John 2:16.

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Woman in Mediterranian – Wikigallery – US Public Domain

Tissot – HMS Calcutta – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

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AN IMAGE JUST FOR YOU

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And so, in hopes of keeping Mankind from returning to God, Satan has given this world a “make-over”, in attempt to keep us seeking after some earthly dream.

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Whatever the career…

…whatever the hobby…

…whatever the romance…

…whatever the city…

…whatever the country…

…whatever the lake…

…whatever the river or mountain stream…

…or mansion…

…or cottage…

…or car…

…or boat…

…or motorcycle…

…or plane…

…or vacation resort…

…Satan now has an image, a pleasant picture just perfect for you to fit into!

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And he is the master at presenting this world in the most romantic light with his, “pleasant pictures”, as Isaiah 2:12, 16-18, 20-22 says (see two sections above for entire quote). And television is the perfect medium to accomplish this!

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HOLY PLACE OF THE HEART

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Now it should be touched upon, that we humans were created to be, “the temple of the Lord”.

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Just listen to this following passage… “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” 1st Corinthians 3:16, 17

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So then it is also true that the individual Christian is likewise the Temple of God.

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And God warns us that we are to keep our Temple holy.

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Now just imagine for a moment if you or I were a priest in the Old Testament Tabernacle.

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And how long do you think you or I would last if you or I engaged in the frivolous and giddy behavior which is so common among Christians today?

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If we were to walk into the Holy Place or even the Most Holy Place, and spoke the way we Christians speak today, they would have had to drag us out…feet first!

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Tissot – The Two Priests Are Destroyed – Wikipedia – Public Dom.

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GRAFFITI IN THE HEART

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Well, our mind and heart are an extension of the Holy and Most Holy Place. The mind and heart are where our treasured possessions are stored.

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So then, how could we possibly think to defile our Soul-Temple by allowing the immoral filth and worldly dribble to enter into our Most Holy Place, via the TV or radio, or magazines, Internet, etc.?

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It’s really unthinkable, when we consider that our heart and mind is to be a fit dwelling place for the Holy Spirit!

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Listen… “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee, etc….” Proverbs 4:23, 24.

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No, God will not strike us instantly dead, as He did to the two priests in this picture.

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But eventually, we will drive that Holy Dove from our heart, if we persist in defiling ourselves with unholy communications.

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It will be a spiritual death. And we won’t even be aware that He’s gone!

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How in the world do Christians ever imagine that we can overcome the world, when we defile our Most Holy Place with such worldly graffiti? Rather, the world is overcoming us!

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And how can we ever expect that we can continue to consume the common-ness and un-Christ-like behavior we see almost every moment on TV and not grieve away the Spirit Of Holiness out of our Soul-Temple?

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If you would like to explore this concept of the Holy Place of the heart, just click here… “Ark of the Covenant Constellation, Pt. 2: How To Enter The Most Holy Place”

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theholyofholies- www.thebiblerevival.com -public-domain.jpg

Tissot_The_Two_Priests_Are_Destroyed-wiki-public-dom..jpg

Bodeguita del Medio, Havana,  WIKIMEDIA share-alike license

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THE SPIRIT OF ANTICHRIST: THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLD…

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“Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time…They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.” 1st John 2:18 & 4:5 

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The spirit of Antichrist is just the spirit of worldliness in a person… “They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.” 1st John 4:5 

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Does this sound outrageous?

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Well, just listen to James, talking to Christians…

…”Ye adulterers and adulteresses,

know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God?

whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4, 5.

 

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Notice that this passage not only says that a friend of the world is the enemy of god, but it also refers to such worldly love as a “spirit” within us.

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But then, someone will answer, “but I’m not a friend of the world.”

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Well, if I make the unbelievers and worldly Christians who appear on television my daily companions, then I indeed am, “A FRIEND OF THE WORLD”. 

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ABOVE PICTURE: Mark of the beast – pub. dom. – Wikipedia

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MUSIC AND THE GOLDEN IMAGE

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“…the king of Babylon…Thy pomp is brought down to the grave, and the noise of thy viols (violins)…How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!” Isaiah 14:4, 11, 12 

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The above passage reveals that Satan possesses great musical abilities. And do we suppose that he won’t use music to deceive the world?

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Old King Nebuchadnezzar was pretty clever. He seemed to understand the power of music. When he set up his golden image on the plain of Dura, he put together an orchestra, to add to the moment. The story in the Book of Daniel, Chapter 3, in which the evil king of Babylon set up a golden image, whose height was 60 cubits, and whose breadth was 6 cubits makes a fearful analogy to television.

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“That at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up:” Dan 3:7

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Remember when the music began, the people of all nations fell down and worshipped the golden image? Obviously Satan was behind all this.

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But this little scenario was much more than just a local situation! Just listen to these words… “Therefore at that time, when all the people heard the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and all kinds of music, all the people, the nations, and the languages, fell down and worshipped the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.” Daniel 3:7.

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Notice it says in this passage that this scenario concerned the whole world. Listen… “all the people, the nations, and the languages, fell down and worshipped the golden image”.

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This golden image in the shape of King Nebuchadnezzar was a picture of the image of the beast from Revelation 13. And just as this golden image was a reflection of Nebuchadnezzar (who, by the way, was a picture of Satan, as the above verse points out), so too, television is a reflection of Satan, as has already been discussed in this article.

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Just listen… “take up this proverb against the king of Babylon, and say, How hath the oppressor ceased! the golden city ceased!…How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!” Isaiah 14:4, 12. 

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Academy Awards Ceremony – Wikipedia – Share Alike Lic.

Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image and The fiery furnace – Daniel 3-12 – www.thebiblerevival.com

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SATAN: “I’LL SETTLE FOR 5 PERCENT”

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One thing that too many Christians do not realize, is that Satan is content with just a small portion of a certain movie or television show, to sow his evil seed.

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Christian parents make a great error in thinking that their children are safe by watching a “pretty good” show. Satan laughs at all who buy into such nonsense. The Bible warns Christians… “Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:” 1st Corinthians 5:6, 7.

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Satan may produce a cute little show for kids, and parents don’t realize that just one or two “bump & grind” tunes in that show, is all that Satan needs to sow his evil seed within the heart of that child.

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Unleavened bread – Wikimedia

Betty Boop – WIKIPEDIA – Public domain

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DANGER FOR ADULTS TOO!

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Adult Christians are in no less danger. While a Christian may have to work and live in a worldly environment: yet to needlessly expose one’s self to common and low-grade conversation, defiles the Soul-Temple. Listen… “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” 1st Corinthians 15:33.

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The only safe thing is to realize just whose territory is the television, and pray that God will take it out of one’s home. For Christians with an unbelieving spouse, this will be very difficult, and the Believer may have to separate his or her self, during those hours that the family watches those shows.

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This next passage from Solomon really clarifies how careful a Christian must be… “Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour.  ” Ecclesiastes 10:1.

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In other words, this pearl of wisdom can be applied to many different areas of life, including the things we absorb into our minds.

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And the last passage to be offered on this topic, was spoken by our Lord Jesus. And every one who takes the name of Jesus on their lips should really consider the great implications which result from this Bible truth… “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.” Luke 16:10

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Bread India – Wikipedia – share-alike license

 

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“AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST”

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“To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself…and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ,” 2nd Corinthians 5:19, 20

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This above passage presents a great purpose for why we have been called: to be ambassadors for Christ, to reconcile a world, steeped in sin and rebellion against the government of God. But it is not merely telling them about Jesus, that reconciles lost souls. No, God has ordained that we should be transformed by the power of the Spirit of Holiness into the image of Christ. The world needs to see Jesus too…in us! And so, we are to be pure and holy, just like Jesus was pure and holy.

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Listen to Peter… “Seeing then that all these things (the heavens and Earth) shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation (words & behavior) and godliness…Wherefore, beloved…be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” 2nd Peter 3:11, 13, 14.

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Mall witnessing, Panama City, Panama

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IMPERCEPTIBLY CHANGED

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By watching television, we imperceptibly become like those we watch… “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” 1st Corinthians 15:33.

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This verse confirms that what we behold and what we hear have an effect on our personality. So if we desire to become totally and purely Christ-like, then we must separate as far as possible from all ungodly influences.

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“FOOLISH TALK & JESTING”

Ephesians 5:2

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The world has its own idea of acceptable behavior. By and large, the world has rejected the holiness and reverence of Christ, and has established its own standard. Irreverence, joking and jesting, loud laughter and other common and even cheap talk often have replaced Christ-like holiness and reverence.

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The sad part of all this, is that Christians too, have bought into this counterfeit goodness, to a great degree. Christians have rejected such admonitions as this… “I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.” 1st Timothy 2:8-11. Can you imagine what kind of reception such passages as this might have been received in the 20th Century churches? 

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But for those who wish to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, it will be their joy and delight to forsake any and every impure behavior and conform themselves entirely into the image of Christ. And they will be likewise willing to accept all the mocking and ridicule that such behavior will result in! 

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PS Krøyer – Hip hip hurra! Kunstnerfest på Skagen – 1888 – Wikimedia – public domain

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WAS THAT GOLDEN IMAGE A PROPHECY OF TELEVISION?

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The Lord had set up this story from Daniel, so that He could warn us of what we can look forward to in these last days. Even now, does television and motion pictures combine the proud and sinfulness of Mankind with swelling strains of music, to cause the world to revere the attributes of Satan. For instance TV can take a person who is otherwise greedy, and selfish, and lustful, and conniving, and vulgar, and simply add some beautiful violin strains and make that person appear absolutely wonderful…or brave…or suave, or sophisticated!

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Music is a very powerful medium, and Satan uses music to his advantage. Just look and listen to the various blockbuster productions which come to the theaters, and even into our living rooms, these days. Do you think these incredibly powerful high-tech productions have an influence upon the hearts and minds of men, women, and children? Only a fool would dare deny the powerful influence of today’s dramatic productions. Even the music today is so incredibly power, as we listen to the radio. And the words on much of this music is selling a lifestyle of licentiousness and debauchery, which has ruined the lives of millions of young people (and even many old people who should know better!)

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For more on the subject of music, You may wish to read the article, “Running The Christian Race (Part 1 Sensual Music)”.

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Nicolo_Paganini_by_Richard_James_Lane – Wikipedia – public domain

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ONE MORE WORD OF CAUTION

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“Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” 1st Peter 5:2, 3

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We are living in a less than perfect world, to put it mildly. Things are not the way they will be, when we reach those heavenly shores. We just cannot expect the things around us to be perfect. Much patience and silence is required when we are surrounded by others who are not of the same mind as us. And there are family situations which require much wisdom and prayer. This above passage from Peter’s Epistle, concerning the Church, can also apply to the family of an individual Christian. Salvation is by grace. We cannot force Salvation on others! Nor should we try to force them to be good! (of course, when children are very young, a good swat on the behind may be necessary. But even this should be applied as sparingly as possible!)

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Signs Of Heaven website is to be an encouragement to those who wish to run that Christian Race and to fight that Good Fight of Faith. The Christian greatly desires to share his or her truths with others. But the Christian must not try to compel others to begin making changes in their life in order to appease. Whether it be music, or diet, or dress or television, etc.. It is not the Christian’s  commission from God to bend the consciences of others who are less inclined to walk as Jesus walked. God’s army is a volunteer army. No one should force others to join.

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Family eating meal – Wikipedia – Public Domain

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JACOB LEADS ON SOFTLY

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“And he said unto him (his brother), My lord knoweth that the children are tender, and the flocks and herds with young are with me: and if men should overdrive them one day, all the flock will die. Let my lord, I pray thee, pass over before his servant: and I will lead on softly, according as the cattle that goeth before me and the children be able to endure, until I come unto my lord unto Seir.” Genesis 33:13, 14 

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The above verse is the testimony by Jacob about his family as they traveled back to their long-lost home. This story is likewise a testimony to how we need to lead our family. We should be inclined to be more like a silent gentle breeze among our family. Not a gale force wind! After all, we appreciate how God has been tender with us. As we look at this painting of Jacob, we recall his gracious words about his family and flocks. He said “I will lead on softly”. Jacob saw how God had patiently worked with him through the years. And now Jacob was likewise determined to be gentle with his family.

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By prayer, watchfulness, and daily consecration, we can cry out for our loved ones, and have confidence that God hears our prayers. We can cling to God’s precious promises about our family, too. As we focus on our own Salvation, we can rest assured that God will work in the lives of others. And if God will peradventure bring a loved one into the fold, then they will also desire to run that Race and fight that Good Fight.

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meeting of Jacob and Esau-1844_- wikipaintings – public domain

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THE END

 

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NEXT ARTICLE

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“CHRISTIAN RACE” PART 2: EFFECTS OF SENSUAL MUSIC…

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This article discusses how we might win that Christian Race which is set before us. It uses sensual music as its theme. But the principles presented herein can be applied to just about any other area of Christian concern.

Just click the following article, “Running The Christian Race (Part 2 Sensual Music)”

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A HEAVENLY HOBBY

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“Lift up your eyes on high, and behold Who hath created these things; that brings out their host by number: He calls them all by names by the greatness of His might, for that He is strong in power; not one faileth.” Isaiah 40:26

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ABOVE PICTURE – Starry Night at La Silla – cropped  and altered image – Wikimedia – Share-Alike license

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The above verse is a plea from God to look up at the Heavens and behold Who has created these things.

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In this busy work-a-day world, there are many very interesting things which can occupy one’s time and energy: hobbies, and careers, and entertainments and worries, and habits, to name just a few.

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But as the child of God devotes his or her life to God, there should be a jealous guarding of one’s own heart… “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23.

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The Christian wants nothing to get in the way of running that Christian Race.

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New York Times Square – terabass – cropped image – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

Shoppers in Toronto – cropped image – Wikimedia – share-alike license

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“AND WHEN YE SEE THESE THINGS…

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LOOK UP, LIFT UP YOUR HEAD”

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But having said this, there is one hobby which every ‘Noble Berean’ may take up, which only compliments the pursuit of the heavenly Prize.

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Yes, Signs Of Heaven becomes a wonderfully rewarding hobby which, unlike many less meaningful hobbies, pays off with rich, heavenly rewards. Everlasting rewards!

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And unlike the person in this photo with equipment, all you need is fairly good vision, and a dark, starry night.

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And once a person really gets to know these heavenly messengers, it will become very apparent that the message connected with these signs is truly a message to be heeded.

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Thus will the Christian be able to share this message with others. And there are perhaps many nuances and hidden biblical truths to these signs which have yet to be discovered.

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Astronomy Amateur – cropped image – Wikipedia – share-alike license

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“And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;” Luke 21:25

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ABOVE CHART: Summer Constellations with Doves (Sagittarius) & Woman (Ursa Major)

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FIRST FIND ORION & 7 STARS

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The very first step in finding these many constellations, should be to find the two main constellations: Orion, and the 7 Stars (aka, The Big Dipper).

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These two constellations represent Christ (Orion), and His Church (7 Stars).

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And just as these are the easiest constellations to find, so too, the first place to begin studying the Bible is the Four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John).

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These four books present Christ and His Church, when He walked the earth, just as Orion and the 7 Stars represent Christ and His Church, as seen up in the heavens.

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Then, once you are comfortable finding these two constellations, you can begin to locate the next closest constellations, and so on.

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ABOVE PICTURE: Orion the Soldier and the Revelation 12 Dragon (Hyades & Pleiades, etc.) – winter constellations – www.signsofheaven.org – not for commercial use

ABOVE PICTURE – 7 Stars Constellation as the Cross (aka Big Dipper) – winter – signsofheaven.org – not for commercial uses

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ANOTHER HEAVENLY HOBBY: PRAYER-WALKS

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Now if you’re fortunate enough to be able to go on nightly walks, and you live in an area where you can safely view the stars, here is another Heavenly Hobby which Signs Of Heaven endorses…

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Why not combine star-watching with prayer, as you walk? What a great way to draw closer to God!

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It cannot be over-stressed, just how wonderful it is to walk under the dark canopy of Heaven, while lifting up one’s heart to our Heavenly Father! There is a closeness to God that cannot be described with words!

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(And even if you cannot safely do this, you can always do such prayer-walks in the daytime, in a safe place, such as a mall, which is every bit as effective, prayer-wise.

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And for those who are in confinement, one can view these starry signs on the Internet, or simply listen to Scripture on audio.

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Either way, all such may enjoy God’s richest blessings at this very time in which God is pouring out all Heaven’s treasures upon anyone willing to forsake all, and follow Jesus!)

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Starry Night at La Silla – cropped and latered image – Wikipedia – share-alike license

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THRICE-DAILY PRAYERS

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Now of course, the Bible commands us to, “pray without ceasing“. The Christian is to constantly talk with our Heavenly Father throughout the day.

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But the Bible also holds up the godly life of Daniel, who, when captive in Babylon, still set aside three times daily, in which he knelt for special prayer.

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And furthermore the Bible also says… “Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and He shall hear my voice.” Psalm 55:17.

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Even those who are bed-fast or in a prison cell can begin to imitate Daniel in this way. And if one is fortunate to be able to walk, then this thrice-daily prayer regimen can be combined with three walks daily and even nightly.

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Marines at Prayer by Alex Raymond – Wikimedia – public domain

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