A Book about Bible Prophecy,

by Pastor Jim Thorpe

An Unedited, Evaluation Copy

Copyrighted 1996

Daniel 12:4

"But thou, O Daniel,

shut up the words,

and seal the book,

even to the time of the end:

many shall run to and fro, and

knowledge shall be increased."

WE HAVE COME TO THE TIME OF THE END

THE LAMB HAS OPENED THE SEALS!

Pastor Jim M. Thorpe

Graduated from Elim Bible Institute, Lima NY. Jim has over 30 years of ministry experience. This includes: Prison Ministry, Teen Ministry, Missionary, Children's Evangelist, and Pastor.

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Index Of Chapters

Appendix

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What’s in a grave? Some might say, "Matters better left alone." Nevertheless, the gravediggers are diligently undoing the work of their predecessors. Slumbering bones are lifted one by one and carried down to a crackling fire. Later, their ashes are spread in a nearby stream. At length, the digging tormentors fail to excite any pain in the oblivious bones. Forty years have already passed since they were first nestled beneath the earth.

Church priests are supervising the destruction of the hated bones, because a Church council has declared their former inhabitant an arch heretic. The Church is attempting to overturn all that was begun by this man. Finally, through feigned religious ceremony, his departed soul is assigned to Hell.

The gentleman in question was a Priest and a righteous man. He taught the long persecuted Gospel of Salvation through Jesus Christ alone, in contrast to Salvation through any other man or Church. He was the first to translate the Scripture into the common English of his day. Under his guidance, young preachers called Lollards went out to share the Good News. They proclaimed Christ while calling men to repent and love God. Ultimately, half of England was converted. It was said of that day, "If two were seen walking together, one would be a Lollard."

An Evil Day -- A Breaking Light

Imagine that we live in the time of this peculiar event. In this age the Church has fallen to such a low state, Salvation can only be had through purchase. The Pope is said to have a storehouse in heaven where he keeps forgiveness for sin. Therefore, merchant priests pay the Pope for the power to grant forgiveness. This forgiveness is then sold to laymen that receive licenses for sins committed or planned. Furthermore, praying directly to Jesus is strictly prohibited, because he is too holy to be addressed. Possessing the Word of God in the common language is punishable by death. Few priests can master enough Latin to profit from what they read in Scripture. The Word of God is hidden and forbidden. Men are only allowed to bow before an idolatrous Church with its icons and clergy. Both sin and an evil monstrosity who pretends to be Christ's Church enslave humanity. Anyone living outside of this system is blocked from all secular trade and is ultimately martyred.

Wycliffe’s ministry foretokens the dawning of Jesus’ prophecy. "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." (Matt 24:14) Through John Wycliffe’s proclamation of the Gospel, Satan’s dark kingdom suffers a deadly blow! The evil empire has now received a bullet in the heart. Paul’s prediction of a coming deception has long been endured but now the Gospel of life begins to shake Satan’s house. (II Tim. 4:4) The famine "of hearing the words of the LORD" is beginning to reverse! (Amos 8:11)

Come and Dine

The centuries before Wycliffe, became known as the "Dark Ages." Through that period Satan used his false church to hinder the Gospel of conversion and to separate men from the Word of God. Millions lost their souls while trusting in idols. Christians were not valued as God’s temple or dwelling place. The Pope claimed to be the only dispenser of Salvation. Although, the true Gospel never changed, its message was persecuted by an earthly power calling itself the Church.

At last, after a millennium of deception, men rejoiced to hear; "Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved!" A glimmering flash of Gospel light cut through the mystical bog of worldwide deception. This gleam foreshadowed the flood of the Gospel to all nations and the coming of the Son of Man. Wycliffe broke the "Satanic Seal" upon the Scriptures and the smell of fresh bread wafted to a famished world.

A Symbol of Hope

Thomas Fuller spoke of Wycliffe’s saintly bones after their desecration and disposal. "The Swift conveyed them into the Avon, the Avon into the Severn, the Severn into the narrow seas; they into the main ocean; and thus the ashes of Wycliffe are the emblem of his doctrine, which is now dispersed all the world over."

The Old Testament priests spread ashes from the Red Heifer upon water. This water was then used to cleanse all things and people in temple worship. The smallest speck of ash made great quantities of water holy.

On this day in l428, the hostile Priests spread the ashes of Wycliffe. These ashes became a symbol of Wycliffe’s doctrine and have now spread across the ocean. Wycliffe’s teachings also continue to circle the globe as a tidal wave of Salvation. In the last days, his doctrine being in agreement with Christ's shall cover the Earth as the waters cover the sea. Finally, millions shall be swept into the gates of God’s invisible Kingdom and Christ shall return.

Wycliffe Found the Hidden Manna,

Now All Nations Are Invited to the Feast!

The War Room Of Satan

The cavernous chamber is cloaked in penetrating darkness; as grisly figures cringe fearfully before their summoning god.

Although unseen, this is a true story and reflects Satan’s plan of attack.

The Conflict of the Ages

What trick would Satan withhold while stalking the sons of Adam? Which of his powers would he hold back for the sake of a sporting hunt? Which of God’s powers would Satan most want to diminish? In eternity’s contest, Satan’s tactics have never changed. He is the original deceiver who continues in unabated fraud.

God has empowered Christians with a Hell robbing, ultimate weapon. This implement of war is the Good News of Salvation in Jesus Christ. Watch out! Our enemy is attempting to corrupt Christ’s Gospel while masking his own identity. He hopes that people will fail to perceive both his presence and deception. If Satan is successful, effective prayer might not be offered and the pure Gospel will not be shared. Alas, a war not waged shall not be won. However, if Christians unite in spiritual prayer and biblical witness, we will quickly turn Satan’s kingdom upside down! In our day of testing we shall be victorious.

The Hidden Foe

I have a story to tell you about a cunning plot to disarm Christians for today’s battle. Our opponent’s first strategy is to camouflage his identity. "And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light." (2 Corinthians 11:14) If Satan can hide himself before the coming of the Lord, he will be able to take more effective action against Christians. He will catch many in his snare. Consequently, many who should have been saved will be lost. A soldier who can not see his enemy remains in mortal danger. "For lo, the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string, that they may privily shoot at the upright in heart. 3 If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" (Psalms 11:2-3)

We will discover that the modern plot to obscure Satan’s identity is like an ancient bone dipped in fresh paint. It shimmers in the light but retains death. Remarkably, Satan has been using this trick to hide from Evangelicals for over 100 years. For over 500 years prior to 1830 all Born Again, Evangelical-like Christians easily identified their enemy. What forged the change in our modern discernment? Who initiated this revision and for what purpose? What might be the outcome of this shift? We will answer all of these questions in this volume.

Foundations First

The plot we are disclosing is simple. The Roman Church was trying to reverse the Reformation and recapture the masses that had escaped its authority. Therefore, the two main pillars of faith that validated the Reformation were attacked. If either of these pillars were damaged, the Reformation would become like a one legged man and thus, a breakable foe. To accomplish this assault, a small but cunning revision of the Protestant view of prophecy was widely published.

The Two Chief Pillars

of the Reformation were:

1. Salvation only through faith in Christ.
2. God’s call to leave spiritual "Babylon" of which Catholic Rome was a member.

Old Protestants all believed if the Roman Catholic Church were the creation of Christ, withdrawal would be unthinkable. However, the description of prophecy and the fiendish deeds of Catholicism confirmed that she was a part of

the prophesied apostasy known as Mystery Babylon! Since this world Church was not the creation of Christ, it must forever be abandoned.

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 In the 1380s John Wycliffe said, The wicked churchmen "hinder true men from preaching plainly and freely Christ’s gospel and the commands of God for the saving of man’s soul. And by many more deceits should Christian men know how these new religious (meaning the religious orders of monks, friars, etc., of the Roman Church.) are false prophets and cursed sects, of which Christ and his apostles prophesied before, and taught men to know them by there works." --John Wycliffe The English Works of Wyclif, Hitherto Unprinted, edited by F.D. Matthew, pg. 261 (Converted from Middle English by J. Thorpe.)

 History of the Christian Church, -- Philip Schaff, Eerdmans Publishing Co. Vol. 1, pg. 838

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A Productive Attack

Few Evangelicals remember that during Rome’s attempt to undo the Reformation, prophecy became a principal target of attack. A Jesuit monk introduced some key points that are embraced in today’s popular prophetic thinking. This Jesuit monk was trying to weaken our Evangelical message and bring us back to the Vatican. Because of his partial success, we Evangelicals have largely abandoned the second pillar of the Reformation.

Thus, most believers no longer identify the Roman Church as a foretold apostasy but rather, a separated member of the Christian community who must be embrace and finally married. Rome is now elevated to a friendlier position and our Gospel of Salvation through faith moves into danger of decay. Remember, Rome still maintains that the Pope alone holds the keys to Salvation. Evangelical conversion is never included in true Roman teaching. Thus, many millions are now awash in the sorrows of Hell because Rome has continued to deny and hide the Gospel and the New Birth. Prophecy calls all converted Christians to pull away from all apostate groups and to enter into a new fellowship! Born Again Catholics and Protestants need to obey God’s Word. All churches that forsake scriptural faith must be cast aside! The early Evangelicals knew if the Pope was God’s minister he would lead his church to heart conversion and forbid idolatry. He would point men to the Rock Christ Jesus and not to Peter. (Isaiah 8:14 Psalms 62:2) If the Pope were Christ’s Apostle he would preach the Gospel of Salvation rather than advocate a physical world power. Truly, the rationale that first initiated the great exodus from Rome and the rise of Evangelicalism still remains valid.

The Field of Battle

The Target of Assault

Here, we shall consider three schools of prophetic thought. Reviewing their origins will demonstrate the scheme to which we are referring. The events that spawned each line of thinking are not hidden but are recorded in many reference books. I will refer to some of these books and tell you where you can verify the information for yourself. Jesus strongly encouraged diligent study and reflection in such matters.

1. The Amillennial View

This view was attributed to Augustine in his book called The City of God, during the 5th century, and was well received by the Roman Church. Through the centuries Augustine’s Amillennialism placed the Roman Church in a favorable light. The Amillennialist see the Roman Church as the ever increasing Kingdom that grows until the whole earth comes under its dominion. This Church is first seen defeating ancient heathen Rome and finally taking control of the world. The visible Church is understood to be God on Earth and holds absolute claim to all spiritual and temporal government! (This means the Roman Church claims the right to rule the world with the Pope as its head.)

Some modern Evangelicals follow a type of Amillennialism. The major difference between Protestant Amillennialists and their past cousins is the identity of the Church. The new Amillennialists see the kingdom in the hearts of men and that Kingdom filling the earth through their God assisted efforts. This differs from the old Roman Catholic view that sees their church as the only true church.

Although, there is a certain attraction in the Protestant Amillennialism, I cannot embrace it when weighed against all Scripture and the realities of life. When this viewpoint is fully developed, Satan is believed to be bound, and the wickedness of this life comes only from degenerated human hearts. I am in favor of winning the world but do not yet discern Satan’s absence!

Fly in the Ointment

Because of great persecution in the First Century, masses of people were converted to Christ. It seemed for a time that the Gospel might fill the earth. The more that people died for Christ, the larger the Church grew. Then, an unexpected but prophesied turn of events occurred.

Following a Roman civil war in 311 AD, the new Emperor Constantine declared an end of Christian persecution. The Church was suddenly correct and old Rome was no longer the enemy. Christianity was soon declared the official Roman religion. At last, the worshipers of Greek Mythology were the scorned. This should have been an occasion to rejoice and celebrate. However, imagine this taking place today.

What if everyone in your city was suddenly proclaimed Christian? What if this decree placed everybody under the authority of one denomination that cast aside heart conversion? The consequences of these happening are easily foreseen. False churches would grow and multiply, while men of earthly importance and learning would rise to leadership. The poor of this world who are rich in faith would be scorned. The voice of the prayer warrior would be silenced. The Bible preaching man of God would be set-aside as unqualified and narrow-minded. What if separate denominations was no longer legal? The Dark Ages would reappear!

Following the official establishment of the Roman Church, all manner of idolatry and heathen corruption flooded in. The Emperor Constantine retained his title as head of the Heathen "Church" and of the Christian "Church" until his death. Idols were changed in name during this great Roman conversion. Men no longer prayed before Zeus and Hercules. Now men prayed before Peter and Mary, while seeking special favor for their prayers. The situation became so bad after a time that, it was counted an act of sacrilege to pray directly to Jesus. People were again burned for calling on the name of the Lord, as they had been in old Heathen Rome. The spirit of Heathen Rome had returned in the false Christian Church! {This information is standard knowledge and can be found in many reference books under Church History for the period of 300 AD and under the Reformation and the causes of the same. Foxe's Book of Martyrs is quite strong on this subject and is a necessity for Bible loving Christians!}

The True Church?

Therefore, we conclude the Roman Church was not the Church Jesus established. Satan’s kingdom could never bring Christ’s true Church to such evil actions. This counterfeit Church was the governmental creation of man and NEVER had any connection to the true invisible Church of Christ. The visible Church was a political power and money machine from its inception. Wicked men used it for the ends they hoped to achieve.

This false Church soon persecuted Christ's true followers, just as they had also been by old Rome. Thus, the door of Salvation was hidden, while the god of this world did all he could to hinder God’s Word. The most amazing element of this story is that it was predicted in Daniel and Revelation! (More on that later.)

2. The Protestant View of Prophecy

The Protestant view was birthed into a world of monstrous darkness. Because of the continuing wars, persecutions, and holocausts, instigated by the Roman Church, someone had to conclude the Church was misnamed. Modern critics rightly point a finger of accusation at the "Church" and make note of the unmeasured carnage it caused throughout history.

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 The Protestant View of Prophecy

Authors have given this view several names including: Historical View, Continuous View, Traditional View, and Reformed View. I am simply calling it the Protestant View because all Evangelical-Protestants followed it for hundreds of years and without it’s unique prospective, the Reformation would not have occurred. Not all followers of the Protestant view of prophecy have seen every point alike but they have all held to a central core of beliefs. (See Appendix F. Protestant View.)

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Immense wrong was carried out in the name of Christ and Christianity. For example, Crusaders entered Jerusalem covering their faces because of the holy sight. In the darkness of that night they ate their captives and slaughtered their opponents. All though Christian History, true Born Again Christians were pursued and martyred in Europe and elsewhere. In the 500's, the Irish were a nation of true Christians. They sent missionaries abroad, they possessed scriptures and joyful Salvation. They were attacked, subjugated, and corrupted in faith by the Roman Beast.

Persecution from Rome has continued through the centuries. Peter of Bruis was burned for loving the Scriptures in the early 1100's. His disciples were called Petrobrusians. Peter Waldo also embraced the Scriptures in the late 1100’s. Thus, those that professed Waldo’s faith were hunted and exterminated for many generations. These martyrs are understood to have first hidden in the mountains of Italy in time of Constantine. They were forced to escape into the wilderness because they rejected the idolatrous Church of Rome. Additionally, the first Europeans to settle in the North American wilderness were eradicated, because they were Born Again believers! In 1565 A Spanish criminal called Melendez was hired by Rome to destroy these French Evangelicals. They had come to Florida to escape the Catholic holocaust in France.

Multiplied millions of Christians have died for their love of Jesus throughout Church History. Revelation speaks of an unnumbered multitude who were martyred for their testimony. Satan alone is the author of this continuing destruction and the False Church has acted as his executioner.

"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (John 10:10)

Daniel, Revelation, and the Gospels all predicted the great last day persecution of true believers. Remember, the last days started no later than Jesus’ time. (Acts 2:17, Heb. 1:2)

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 A Short History of the Italian Waldenses, Ch. 1.

 History Of The United States, --Ridpath, Vol. 1, pg. 28-32.

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A Star in the Night

In the l300’s, John Wycliffe’s writings became a breaking light in darkness. Wycliffe thundered from within the Roman Church proclaiming a "New View." (Of course I use the term "New View" rather loosely. Through many centuries this concept was the continuing belief of Born Again Christians who fled the false Church’s idolatry and persecution.

1. Wycliffe preached Salvation through Christ alone and not through any other man.
2. Wycliffe said the Pope and his Bishops were antichrist. Through their opposition to Christ’s Gospel, multitudes were in Hell. He said that the religious antichrists should be sent out of our kingdom.

Wycliffe’s last work was named "Antichrist," which was speaking of the Popes. Wycliffe and all the successive Reformers observed that Rome had become the seat of the worst evil in the history of humanity. The "Church at Rome" was the living fulfillment of the prophesied Whore of Revelation. Using the Name of Christ and Church, these false religious leaders propagated the most hideous deception the earth might ever see. Wycliffe’s ideas embody the quintessential foundation of the Reformation and without them we would certainly not have our Bibles or Salvation!

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 History of the Christian Church -- Schaff, Vol. 1 on pp. 837-838. This is a reprint from the l880's, which is available today. "Highly recommended."

ibid., Vol. VI pp. 330-333. This information can also be seen in: Foxe’s... Pg. 70, and John Wiclif’s, Polemical Works in Latin, --Rudolf Buddensieg, Vol. I and II. Published by The Wyclif Society 1882 and 1883.

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How our Reformation Fathers

Understood Prophecy

To the Reformers, Ancient Rome was represented by the Dragon which tried to destroy the man child Jesus. Rome next dawned a mask of false Christianity and became the Roman Catholic Church who was the Beast and Mystery Babylon of Revelation. This drunken woman of Rome sought to destroy all that was true and of

God. Her period of controlling influence was limited to 1260 years. When those years were ended, her power was broken and scattered abroad. Rome’s final destruction must occur at Christ’s return.

The Reformers believed Rome’s re-emerging spirit has remained unrelenting throughout history. It continually rides the shifting sea of human governments. This wicked spirit sits in the temple of God by living in the hearts of men. According to Scripture the heart of man comprises the only "true" temple of God on the Earth.Therefore, antichrist retains control of governments and churches via the heart throne of humanity. He thus establishes his global kingdom of darkness.

The Reformers perceived the Gospel Age as containing many chapters with four abiding players. These ageless players were: God verses Satan and the true Christians verses antichrist. To them every generation faced the same temptations and tests. (1 Corinthians 10:13-14) Antichrist was not one future individual but an embodied spirit living in every generation. His manifestation was foretold in Daniel and Revelation and the Gospels.

The Reformers have shown us how that Satan buys fresh slaves in every generation. He leads them to oppose Christ and his teachings. Christians contain the Mystery hidden from the Ages, which is Christ in you your hope of Glory. Conversely, the people of Satan, embody the spirit of antichrist. Through antichrist’s spirit many are linked to the great Mystery Babylon. Although people do not live in the day of Babylon’s physical reality, their hearts carry its full evil. This will be explored further in the chapter called "The Book of Revelation."

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 Matt. 21:42, Eph 2:19-22, I Cor. 3:16, I Cor 6:19-20, II Cor. 6:16, Eph. 2:20-22, and Rev. 3:12.

 William Tyndale gave us the first English Bible From the Greek And Hebrew. See (Appendix H) for his views on antichrist.

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Antichrist

Here is every verse in the Bible using the word antichrist. Consider if the old Protestant view agrees with these texts. Does John ever portray antichrist as a future individual? Could it be that Satan is hiding his person to disguise the seriousness of this hour?

I Jn 2:18 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

I Jn 2:22 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.

I Jn 4:3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.

II Jn 1:7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

"Those Old Fogies weren’t so Smart!"

I know some will make this comment about the Reformers. After all, they weren’t: Full Gospel, Whole Gospel, Charismatic, Holiness, Fire Baptized, Fundamental, Evangelical, Strangely Warmed, Second Blessed, Deaconized, members of our Church. We are younger and, therefore, understand more than they!

Think about what the Reformers did. These old "salts" were on board the good ship Zion, sailing on a sea of martyr's blood. They split the greatest darkness since the time of Christ and sealed their convictions in the opening of their own flesh. Except for God’s love, you cannot get any closer to Jesus! They understood the identity of the enemy of their soul better than we. These men faced Satan’s hungry maw and felt his slashing claw. They were not only roasted in word but burned in flesh. They stood victors to the end and passed to us the rich inheritance called the Word of God!!

Their Children aren't so Rugged

We should not scoff too quickly at their views. Read Fox’s Book of Christian Martyrs if you have the courage. Most modern Christians cannot bear reading about the sufferings recounted there. Consider the power of God upon old Christians that lived many unspeakable tribulations. In their last hour, these faithful saints clearly identified the murderous antichrist. Why should we presume to have clearer vision than martyrs who recovered the message of Salvation afresh and sealed its truth with their blood? They procured for us the Scripture and Gospel of Salvation!

Today, many Christians enjoy a gospel of physical prosperity. Soul salvation is echoed across to include salvation for fleshly comfort. The joy of heaven has been enlarged to embrace the pleasures of this life. Are we hearing the true message of Christ? Are we forgetting the great commission? Have we fallen under a spell? Is antichrist truly absent? God help us.

3. The Futurist View

The Futurist view teaches that Antichrist and Tribulation are things that shall only be found in the future. Most Futurists teach that these horrors shall be preceded by the Secret Rapture of the saints. After the Antichrist enjoys a short reign, known as the Great Tribulation, Christ shall return in judgment. Who wouldn't like this train of events?

Illustrating Prophecy

As you will observe, these two charts are nearly identical except for the longevity of antichrist. One view shows the antichrist as a continuing presence while the other discerns antichrist as short lived. Why did all Born Again Christians once believe the Protestant View? What happened to make the change? We have already stated the reason that all Evangelicals once considered the antichrist a long lived collective wickedness. What shortened his life?

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 Notice that the nucleus of each chart is largely correct in representing its particular view. However, small variations of understanding exist on some points. (i.e., On the Futurist chart many differ on the length of the Tribulation and the timing of the Rapture. On the Protestant chart variations occur on the identity of the False Prophet and the form in which the Millennium might be manifest.)

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Unmasking the Plot

Today, most Evangelicals, Pentecostals and Charismatics accept the Futurist view of prophecy. I personally grew up nestled beneath its comforting umbrella. This view is quite appealing on the surface but a careful look at its family tree becomes most unsettling. Where did the Futurist’s understanding of Bible prophecy originate and more importantly with what motive? Surprisingly, the Evangelical’s acceptance of the Futurist view is a comparatively new phenomenon. The historian Philip Schaff relates how, "The great majority of Orthodox Protestant commentators," follow the Protestant view of prophecy.

Shaff’s statement was true in 1900. However, today most Evangelicals follow the Futurist system of interpreting prophecy. Schaff tells us that the Jesuit Ribera first put forward Prophetic Futurism in 1580. The Roman Church exclusively embraced his mix of new and old ideas until the Jesuit Lacunza published "The Coming Of Messiah In Glory And Majesty." Lacunza wrote under the false name of Ben-Ezra and claimed to be a converted Jewish Rabbi. Both Jesuits were attempting to undo the Reformation via prophetic understanding.

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 History of the Christian Church, -- Schaff, Vol. 1, page 838.

Encyclopedia of Biblical Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, Vol. 4, pg. 663, about Edward Irving.

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Edward Irving, a notable Protestant theologian and preacher, published an English translation and commentary on Lacunza’s work in 1827. Irving’s book was widely circulated by The Oxford Tract Society. This Society was a well-known group of Protestant clergy that converted to Catholicism. These steps brought Futurism from Catholic to Protestant acceptance. The popular Protestant teachers that began espousing this Roman inspired theology included: John Darby who traveled widely in the US and preached about the time of the American Civil War, and the younger Cyrus Scofield of the Scofield Bible. Scofield was a disciple of Darby’s and has become the premier Futurist influence in the 20th century. Multiplied teachers and men of note have joined this popular procession. (More in Appendix A.)

Remember who the Jesuits were. They were the militant arm of the Roman Church, with the prime directive of destroying the Reformation and bringing the world back to Rome. Their methods were torture, inquisition, deception, murder and intimidation. Finally, they were so wicked in their activity even Roman Catholic nations exiled all Jesuits. Lacunza was among the Jesuits kicked out of his native Chili for their subversive acts. Look this group up in the Encyclopedia. This is the same group that gave Evangelicals today’s Futurist view of prophecy.

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Things To Come, A Study in Biblical Eschatology , page 391, Zondervan, -- J. Dwight Pentecost. This family tree of Futurism is confirmed by Pentecost, a Futurist teacher. He mentions Darby, Scofield and the sudden appearance of Dispensationalism in 1830.

History of the Inquisition and Reformation renders an overwhelming mass of evidence confirming our contention. See Appendix E for the shocking Oath Of The Jesuits!

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On Target!

In this book we shall demonstrate how Lacunza's teaching is hurting the Evangelical Church’s Roman inspired teaching.

This view has:

1. Hindered an easy understanding of several prophetic scriptures.
2. Spawned the Pre- Mid- and Post- Tribulation Rapture debate!
3. Opened us to the new ecumenism, which if unchecked will sweep many Evangelicals through the gates of Rome and into the arms of the false Church.

There is an illustration in this book of the Second Beast of Revelation with two horns. He looks like a devil but be sure, when Satan comes to deceive he will come with good looks, good feelings, and a smile! Please, hold only to the Word of God!

A short work called "The Rapture of the Saints," by Duncan McDougall, expands on the family tree of Futurism. However, McDugall does not define the arena of battle as we do. He treats the Rapture’s timing as the center of contention and mentions the antichrist question as a side issue. We believe the identity of antichrist is the full vortex of confusion and maintain that the timing of the Rapture is a side issue used to draw our attention away from Satan’s true snare.

We will present more information about the Jesuit’s book, in the chapter called The Dragons Egg. Remember that Lacunza’s work became the bridge between, Roman Catholic and Protestant understandings of prophecy. KEY -- He wrote solely for the purpose of hiding the prophesied appearance of antichrist and to convert Protestants back to Rome. The discussion of the Second Coming and Rapture was merely ‘bate’ to gain an audience of good Christians. The only thing Lacunza the Jesuit added to the discussion of the Second Coming was confusion.

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The Rapture of the Saints, -- Duncan McDougall, Lord’s Covenant Church, PO Box 5334 Phoenix, Arizona 85010.

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The Vortex of Confusion

Is the antichrist a continuing presence, or a limited time bound personality? Is antichrist a demon possessed individual in one generation, or is he an ageless spirit, attacking the train of humanity, across many generations? Further, is the Man of Sin, the only antichrist or just an embodied component of the long-lived antichrist spirit?

This study will test our devotion to either tradition or scripture. Recent Evangelical belief has defined antichrist as a coming individual. Is this really what the Scripture reveals? Adjusting this idea would create several connected questions. Therefore, we have included Bible commentary to detail the prophetic faith of old time Evangelicals. This will be useful in evaluating their thinking, which has become strange to our hearing. We have additionally updated their views by applying our knowledge of current events. We will show how our fathers believed the antichrist and tribulation to be present throughout history.

Christians have suffered for our Lord since the days of the Apostles. They will suffer and die until Jesus comes. Following today’s extended tribulation of good men; the Elect will be caught away in the Rapture. (Read Matthew 24:29) This will open the day of God's wrath and tribulation upon the wicked. From this great "Day Of The Lord" will spring the Millennial Kingdom. Recognizing a long-lived antichrist will place us toward the end of the tribulation of the righteous and near the beginning of the tribulation upon the wicked. By embracing historical Protestant thinking some very difficult prophetic verses are made easy to understand. Matthew 24 looses its shroud of difficulty and the timing of the Rapture becomes easily apparent. See Appendix F for a complete outline of the three views of prophecy and their relation to the Pre-, Mid-, or Post-Tribulation Rapture.

 KEY OF UNDERSTANDING

The Rapture of the Saints divides two tribulations, which are quite different in nature. One is now suffered by the godly and one shall yet be suffered by the wicked upon Christ’s return in judgment. Both are defined as great tribulation in the Bible. Modern futurists ignore the PROPHETIC IMPORTANCE of today’s tribulation that Christians have long endured. Conversely, all Evangelical Protestants once recognized that both tribulations were equally important and were foreseen in Bible Prophecy.

A fuller explanation of antichrist and tribulation may be found in Appendix G.

Living in the Last Days

Our Reformation fathers lived in a time when the Roman Church had a seething hatred for Bible loving Christians. Believers were slaughtered, war raged everywhere, one third of the population of Europe died from the Black Plague and to possess the Bible was punishable by death! (Humm? Sounds like tribulation.) It was easy for the early Reformers to identify antichrist. Revelation had become a book of current events.

Retreat and Regroup

Following the Reformation the Vatican began a campaign of damage control. The bloody tracks of the Popes had to be concealed. Rather than a continuing spirit of antichrist as John taught, Rome scooted antichrist to the unaccountable future. Hence, the murderous actions of the Popes were forgotten in a generation or so. Today, Rome’s holocaust is no longer brought to mind by the old telltale label of antichrist. The great Holocaust has almost been forgotten. Beware, the antichrist is regrouping for another attack!

By scooting the antichrist to the future, several prophecies became distorted. The Rapture’s timing grew less clearly defined. The false promise of a comfortable and trouble free life gained legitimacy as Protestant America grew and prospered. This understanding of prophecy would ultimately have its hurtful effect on Christians. Because of these deceptions, Evangelicals began to think: "What does it matter how bad things get? We will not be here to see the antichrist or tribulation. The worse things get, the sooner Jesus will come." I call this the "Christian’s secret death wish." We hope for the worst, "secretly" and look for the best, "To be caught up!"--Secretly that is... We all long for heaven and nobody plans to die.

Why did Good People Believe A Bad Story?

The answer to this question is easy. Anyone teaching about the hope of the Church quickly gains an eager audience. The Second Coming always stirs the spirit of the true believer. Attaching a deception to such a wonderful topic was a masterpiece of craftiness. How else could the Roman Church gain an audience? All cults first give out words of truth and in the end slip in lies. The lie in this case was the obscuring of antichrist.

Since the concealing of antichrist, our adversary hopes that Christians will let down their guard and return to an imitation church. This was the single purpose of Lacunza’s deception. This was the single purpose of Futurism!

Sleeping Virgins

Consider the effects of this change in antichrist’s address. Wickedness grieves the believer daily. When we see it advance, we shutter, fluff our pillow and sleep a little deeper, excitedly dreaming of a closer Rapture. No one must die in persecution. (Rev. 7:14) We will be gone before trouble rises against us. (Matt. 10:22) Wait, there is more! This way nobody has to pray and no change is necessary or greatly desirable. Looking for an imminent Rapture is the correct thing; letting the Devil take our nation is not. We don't need a coming antichrist for Jesus to appear; antichrist is already here and will destroy us if he can.

Danger! Warning of the Hour!

Today, and in every generation, Satan finds a new willing host to possess and obey his will. We must be alert and at the same time watch for the Blessed Hope. The False Prophet of Revelation intends to catch us off guard and have us as supper. This is the only supper many sleeping virgins will attend!

Thus, today in our most beloved thinking, we nestle the asp of Jesuit teaching to our breast. We feed it our milk of love, and devotion and carelessly forsake the truth of fulfilled prophecy. At last we will be as Jesus predicted -- sleeping virgins! Could it be we will be found by another as we sleep? Yes, the roaring lion goes about in the night and will without question find a prey. Lions didn’t stop feeding on Christians in the old Roman arena!

The Road to Hell

Once Rome has deceived its prey, will its hungry maw be filled? Not in your life! Today, it is time to eat. The spirit of unification is sweeping the religious world like a hurricane. The Liberal element rode the crest of the wave in the 60s and before. These clergy without Christ were quick to hear their master's voice. They continue to strive for total unification of all denominations and strive to hold dialogue with non-Christian sects. This activity is the manifestation of the spirit of antichrist. These "toadies" of wickedness hope to bring all of mankind under antichrist’s unremitting claw.

The Beast of Revelation was a one-world system inseparably linked to the Roman Church in its zenith. The False Prophet is building an image of the Beast. This is certainly a one-world deception called Ecumenism. Now many Evangelicals and like stripes are taking on that liberal Spirit in the names of Love and Unity. The Sirens of oneness wail from the rocks of destruction;

"GOOD SHIP OF ZION COME

NEAR AND FELLOWSHIP! "

Today, Rome flirts and woos sincere believers and has cunningly drawn many of our leaders into signing formal statements of agreement. (See Charisma magazine from July 1995) Has the blood of unnumbered Martyrs so quickly dried? Has the din of Sirens grown so loud; that the cries can no longer be heard from beneath God’s altar? A smile, happy fellowship, or a nice feeling cannot substitute for eternal Salvation at the foot of the Cross. Listen to Jesus say, "I have not come to bring peace but a sword." The call still peals from heaven to be separate, to come out from among them, and not partake of their sins. If this doesn’t apply to you then you will know. If this does apply, I am sure that you have already put this book down.

God’s curse at the Tower of Babel established natural boundaries for the good of humanity. Destroying or denying these boundaries will lead to the multiplication of wickedness among men. We must not force unity among religious groups. Naturally, these divisions are a playground that the enemy uses as he does every affair of mankind. However, when religious unification arrives outside of conversion, full wickedness and satanic grip are assured and prophesied. When all religions are unified, the old Mystery religion of Babel has revived.

The separation of humanity weakens the multiplication of raw wickedness. The diversity of Church Governments is a means by which Satan is foiled in his crusade to totally corrupt mankind. As each Church organization stumbles and falls with the passing of time, God raises up a new obedient generation of people. God never builds on the organization of man, for God lives in the HEART.

The Coming of Antichrist

See the False Prophet of Revelation 13, arise and take the place of the Beast, through his old lies. Deception is the implement by which Satan has always taken men to Hell. We must understand who the Beast was and his source of power. The Beast devoured the souls of mankind through false doctrine.

The False Prophet is now rising and building an image of the Beast. He is hard to detect, because he is not one individual but a lying spirit, that marks for himself the masses of lost humanity. Today’s satanic activity is not a portent of a coming antichrist but is the very presence of true antichrist. Only the Word of God can reveal him and defeat him!

"Antichrist has long reigned and

we were not aware!"

-- William Tyndale, 1536 AD

The Bible is one book to all generations. The eternal God who sees all people of past and present ages gave it. God has much to say to every generation. No truth in the Scripture is for one individual or group. The lessons taught are the voice of God to all. "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever." (Hebrews 13:8)

The purpose of this Chapter is to give an example of how the old Protestant version of prophetic understanding might affect our wider comprehension of Scripture. This thinking is in contention with the Scofield Reference Bible, which has been the premier Futurist text. Scofield’s notes position most of God’s prophecy, miracles, and promises for the past or for the future and leave very little of anything for today’s generation. Most have forgotten that the Reformers were men that exercised miraculous spiritual gifts and lived as fulfillments to Bible prophecy.

We also believe we are now in the last days and have been since Pentecost. Since the Pentecostal outpouring of Acts 2, oceans of spiritual activity have been rising. Thus, the fullness of the New Covenant is ours to enjoy until Jesus appears. Such power is needed to make war with antichrist’s spirit and reach the nations for Christ.

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The Suppressed Evidence, by Rev. Thomas Boys, M.A. 1832

The Parable of the Wicked Mammon, by William Tyndale, 1536. See Appendix H of this book.

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Building a Bible

The Bible is one Book and God planned it that way. There were about 40 human authors, taking 1600 years to write the Bible. The Text was that which God ordained and carefully preserved for us. There were no accidents in the Bible. Just as quality books are designed with textile threads running from the front to the back, so the Bible has central themes that pass through the whole of the text. These principals reappear book after book and repeatedly confirm the eternal message of God. We call these BINDING PRINCIPALS. These bind the Bible together as one. Here are some examples:

The Coming of God

God came in the garden and talked with Adam. God also came to Abraham, Moses, Israel, His people in Judges, the Kings, and the Prophets. God came in Jesus Christ, and God has come to you, to call you to Salvation. God physically came in the past, and he will come again on the day of the Lord. His spiritual appearing to each respective generation produces a common result. Those who receive Christ "shall be changed." Your response to Christ’s present spiritual coming will determine your eternal condition when he returns in the sky.

I have known old saints who had visions of the coming of Christ. Therefore, they believed they would be alive when he returned. They saw themselves going up! Today these departed saints wait for the trump of God and will certainly receive the expectation of their faith with the living. The coming of the Lord is a thread that runs though the Bible and binds all successive believers together. To take part in His coming, we must each watch in faith. The glorified body is gained in no other way. Let’s consider another Binding Principal.

The Blood Line

Unless you're new in the faith, you already know about the Blood Line. This scarlet thread runs from Adam, through Abraham, over the Brazen Altar, out Rahab’s window, and to the foot of the Cross. From there the Blood stretches into eternity to the very throne of God. This is the RED thread that holds our Bible’s binding together. This thread is tied to the back hinge of the Bible, which is the Cross. All must be saved by this common thread of flowing blood. It is woven throughout the Bible and extends to every generation. There is no other way of Salvation.

The Messenger Principal

Whenever you saw the prophet Elijah you knew more than words had arrived. Elijah brought an expectation that God was about to act. Elijah shall precede the coming of Messiah. "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD:" Malachi 4:5

When John the Baptist came preaching, Jesus identified him as Elijah. John clearly fulfilled prophecy, yet another Elijah shall minister before the Second Coming of Christ. Elijah’s shoes shall certainly be refilled in these last days. The past coming of John and the coming of a yet undisclosed witness are meant to equally fulfill the prophecy of Elijah. Many other prophecies also have more than one realization. These are not mere applications but planed fulfillments.

The "Messenger Principal" applies to Christian witnesses who introduce us to Christ. These people are not the literal fulfillment of Elijah. However, our response to present ministry, gives the same benefit as hearing John, Elijah or the Two Witnesses. The principal is effective when the prophecy is for another.

God sends forth his messengers throughout the Word of God and the history of mankind. These "Elijahs" will not be recognized in their day of witness, just as John and Elijah were not properly received. Only those who come believing will know "Elijah" and be ready for the Day of the Lord. "Prepare ye the way of the Lord."

The Antichrist Principal

Christ fills all of history and to be sure the Devil has his antichrist stalking about wherever the sons of Adam tread. John said, "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 ... 22...He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son." (I John 2:18)

First, the serpent came in the garden; then Job crossed Satan in Abraham’s day. Lucifer was uncovered in Isaiah’s prophecy. Daniel introduce us to the coming evil prince and Jesus said this wicked one would declare himself God. John in Revelation foresaw the unholy trinity and their final judgment.

There are specific fulfillments to each prophetic monster. However, don't forget about "binding principles." People not living in the day of a literal fulfillment, are still tested by a representative appearance of the same spiritual principal. We must meet the Devil just as anyone in any age did or will. Our way of victory is the same. There is but one road to the kingdom and all pilgrims are tested there.

In Pilgrims Progress, Christian met three men who had found a comfortable spot on the road. They were unconcerned about the chains that bound them while they slept. These refused to be awakened and came to a dreadful end. Today, it is popular to preach a comfortable gospel of plenty and rapture to come. One’s flesh could grow fat on that, while other Christians are suffering persecution. Don’t forget our brothers across the globe are now giving their lives for their testimony. Let’s not get too comfortable lest we also receive a deadly awakening!

Through my youth, we feared Communism might take over America. We though that godless system would take our Bibles, persecute believers, and force the Mark of the Beast. In that same period I heard we need not dismay, because when things got bad enough the Rapture would save us. It took me a long time to understand 50 percent of the world was already suffering unspeakable persecution. For these ‘Iron Curtain’ believers, Bibles were illegal and their children were removed for state protection from religion. I wonder if my Iron Curtain brothers feared a coming antichrist? In their thinking, had tribulation now arrived? These were already suffering everything we feared might come. In today’s modern persecution, millions of Christians have died for Christ!

Consider how other Christians suffer while we enjoy comforts! If we were to suffer in the same way would this mean we had missed the Rapture? No, the Lord said we must certainly endure persecution. Do I crave trouble and testing? Not me! However, we were admonished by Peter to be ready for any thing. "Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;" (1 Peter 4:1)

Has the spirit of antichrist come to America? Consider how that faithless ministers ridicule the Word of God while excusing immorality and sin. Millions of lost souls are passed along like hot potatoes to Hell, as unbelieving clergy twist God’s plan of Salvation. Multitudes of Christians sleep and turn their faces from the massacre of unborn humans across our land. The Holocaust trials of WW II established standards of guilt and responsibility. According to those standards, many American Christians stand with innocent blood on their hands? Their works are truly the works of antichrist. Conversely, other Christians thrust out in prayer and in deed to stop today’s evil. The battle is set in array!

In eternity our Nation and Supreme Court, with each of its approving justices and our President Bill Clinton will appear more odious than Adolph Hitler. More innocent people have died beneath their wicked power than under Hitler’s. Further, in October of l993, it was widely reported that twelve national Evangelical leaders met with the President Clinton and apologized for how other Evangelicals had criticized him on moral issues like abortion. They said this was so "Un-Christ like." On judgment day, I will not decide their sentence. However, if I had done the same, you could certainly know that my soul was sold to the Devil, for the wretched prize called the "approbation of man." I would have received the mark of the beast in my head. (thinking)

If I live a wicked life today, I don’t need to look for a future antichrist in Jerusalem, or a past Devil in the garden. I stand naked before God today. Nothing I do in the future could place me in a worse condition. I shall rightly be counted with the wicked of all ages. When I wash in the fountain of the cross and dry my hands in the murder of 31 million of his little ones, "concrete goulashes" would be good news and God only knows the bad. (Mark 9:42) With John we say that antichrist is already here!

The Babylon Principal

Babylon is a major Binding Principal of the scripture. God’s Judgment upon Babel brought: the loss of understanding, relationships, production, and the division of humanity. Old Israel suffered a Babylon like curse and dispersion because of sin. Similarly, any believer who embraces sin will enter a personal Babylon of confusion and separation from God’s blessing.

Satan’s traps are set for God’s elect in every age. The Devil has real snares that can bind and take us captive. His forces attack like the stinging locust of Revelation. "The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law." (1 Corinthians 15:)

Good news! There is a way to escape sin’s prison. The "sin slugging" power of the cross set man’s original Babylon in reverse. Following repentance, the Holy Ghost restores virtue and understanding. "Loose thyself from the bands of thy neck, O captive daughter of Zion." (Isaiah 52:2) God’s spirit restores human productivity, relationships, and puts God’s language back in our mouth. This Pentecostal Spirit is God in us building up eternal Zion.

Our Reformation fathers all believed the Beast and Mystery Babylon were present in their day. Mystery Babylon was understood to be the Apostate Church that held sway over the world for 1260 years. This Church was not the only Babylon but was certainly the representative apex of all others. Catholic Rome cultivated idolatry for generations and constantly battled the spread of the Gospel and the Bible. When the first Reformers set aside their idols and left "Christian Babylon," today’s end time revival commenced. Therefore, Rome’s gates are broken and the liberated have fled to all parts of the earth. Beware! Babylon’s forces are now massed to retake a modern prize and we Evangelicals are the prime target.

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Our chapter about Revelation 17, will expand on this belief. If you want massive documentation on our allegation see, The Two Babylon’s, by Rev. Alexander Hislop, Reprinted by, Loizeaux Brothers, Neptune, New Jersey. After completing the text of my book, I discovered this priceless reprint. Hislop methodically catalogues many facets of Romanism and documents their origin in ancient Babylonian Mythology. These ancient heathen practices and doctrines are shown to have entered and polluted the Church of Rome.

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Notice; I encourage my Born Again Catholic brothers and sisters to search the scriptures. Find there the way of your Salvation in Christ alone. Jesus is the ONLY mediator between God and man. (I Timothy 2:5) Lay aside your icons and pseudo-priests and become the priest which God has called you to be. You have received full priestly power from Jesus. No man stands between you and Christ. Remember, God is restoring his spirit through the poor rejected elements of society and not an earthy priesthood. God’s power flows through every Born Again believer. Rome has claimed this power but Jesus retains it and you are his beneficiary. Only a false imitation of Christ would deny this marvel.

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Any human tradition that channels Salvation through anyone other than Christ stands as another Christ, or antichrist! In old King James English "antichrist" is most properly defined as instead of Christ.

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God’s Spirit upon you has sealed you as Christ’s, so, now you are called to remove yourself from the prophetically identified Mystery Babylon. Millions of others have made the pilgrimage before you and by the grace of God you can too. My prayers are with you in your quest. I know it is a difficult step to take and will call for fresh faith. Your joy in liberation will be unspeakable! Your reward shall be from Jesus.

"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:" (1 Peter 2:9)

The Tribulation Principal

Here is a principal that most would rather skip. I don’t blame them for that, because our flesh cries out for comfort at every turn. The scripture's message is so compelling, we dare not omit this major principal. The Blood of Jesus alone cleanses us from sin. However, tribulation is also defined as a purifier of the Church. Remember how that spotless Jesus learned "obedience through the things he suffered." How could we omit tribulation in a book dealing with prophecy?

• Tribulation of the Righteous

A short study of Scripture will quickly reveal tribulation is not a narrow subject. All through the New Testament, tribulation is mentioned as being the lot of true believers. Since Jesus’ time Christians have been in tribulation for their testimony. We are not promised immunity from trouble, persecution, or tribulation. The Bible repeatedly gives encouragement to stand when these come.

Often believers conclude no trouble will ever confront them before they are to be raptured away. Such expectations become dangerous, for when strong trouble comes believers may feel let down or betrayed. God is forever faithful; we simply fail to listen to his Word. There is a present tribulation for true believers. This is a tribulation that does not withhold the soon return of Jesus; this tribulation has already happened and will continue until Jesus comes.

• Tribulation of the Wicked

Special judgments and the inclusion of tribulation are God's plan for the wicked. These calamities will take place after the end of our present age and after Jesus catches away his saints. Prophecy teachers now call this future period, The Great Tribulation. This name seems appropriate for the greatest divine judgment in history. Past teachers called it the Day of Doom. Woe, to the inhabitants of the Earth! Great plagues shall be poured out on the nations that gather to fight the Lamb. Jesus will destroy the wicked and bind the Unholy Trinity. The raptured saints will accompany Jesus on the great day of judgment. The kingdoms of the Earth shall become the Kingdoms of our God.

• Tribulation Everywhere You Look

If you want an eyeful on the subject of tribulation, look in Wigram-Green’s, The Englishman’s Greek Concordance and Lexicon. You will see the Greek word we translate as tribulation, is also translated in several different ways. Some of these alternate words are: affliction, persecution, trouble, and burden. Again, these are all the same word as tribulation.

We will first cite some scriptures that mention tribulation. Then we shall follow with some verses having the same Greek word but with a different English translation. These words will be noted by bold print. Remember where the bold print appears, substituting the English word tribulation is totally proper and in keeping with good translation. Here are some scriptures on the subject:

Matt 13:21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

Acts 14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.)

Rom 5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

2 Cor 7:4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.

Acts 11:19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.

2 Cor 1:4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

2 Cor 4:17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

Questions: If we suffer in a light tribulation, or a great tribulation, how will they differ? We can only die once! If millions died for Christ in the first Century and many more follow throughout history’s bloody stream, was that a little tribulation?

Moreover, when Satan’s coming hordes fight against Jesus, why shall their death be great tribulation? If I suffer hunger, am burned, beheaded, dismembered and watch my family tortured for Jesus, why is my death given a lesser standing than God’s future wrath and tribulation on the deserving wicked?

Answers: There is a great tribulation to come when Jesus returns and pours out his wrath upon wickedness. That tribulation shall be GREAT: great big, greatly reaching and greatly longed for by heaven and the body of Christ. Nothing else will or ever shall be like it. This of course will be the Great Wrath of God.

However, until the Lord catches us away, we are suffering tribulation and in some cases great tribulation. The tribulation of believers extends across multiplied generations. No other tribulation lasts so long. All believers face the principal and reality of this ordeal. Thus, Christians are now congregating and increasing beneath the altar of God, waiting for the day when God will answer all wrongs. According to scripture, we are now in tribulation and will continue to be until Jesus returns.

Key -- Our present tribulation is for our blessing. The future tribulation and last tribulation will be for the destruction of the wicked. Both periods are equally referred to as great tribulation in the Scripture. Modern prophecy teachers deny our present tribulation because they have embraced the Futurism that Lacunza first gave us. Lacunza wanted us to forget the millions of Born Again martyrs in our present age. He denied that Scripture ever referred to those righteous souls as part of prophecy. The Jesuit wanted us to return to Roman idolatry!

Rev 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. (Tribulation of the good)

Rev 7:14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. (Tribulation of the good)

Rev 2:22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. (Tribulation of the evil)

The Mark Principal

The Mark of the Beast is part of a larger binding principal found all though the Bible. Don’t be too quick and conclude that the mark is only found in Revelation.

The Mark on the Beast

Canada now marks house pets, thus tagging each animal to its owner. The Canadians place a little wheat sized implant under the animal's skin, which renders its micro chip information to a computer reader. Also, all the libraries I visit have their books implanted with a little computer readable strip. As you exit, the computer reads the strip and notes if that book has been properly checked out. One day in grocery stores you will just wheel up your cart and have all the products read in one scan. This technology is already here and is on line.

Render to Caesar -- Render to God

Your money has a readable strip implanted so that anyone with the proper tool can scan you and tell how much money is on your person. This is here today and without question is the beginning of a wider marking that will track and control our lives. We are truly on the road to neo-slavery and governmental tyranny. I wonder if we value our freedom more than our money?

I remember an old story about some past people that thought freedom held the greater value. They said something about God being the author of liberty. This may be a clue they left us so we could identify the spirit behind today’s increasing governmental encroachments. If we render our hearts to God, we can without question turn the tide!

Going too Far

I wish I had the following on tape but do not. What I relate to you, I did hear and my son heard it with me. On WHPE, from Highpoint North Carolina, we were listening as we often did sometime in l992. A daily public service segment was being aired, with an interview of a Social Security official. I thought this was another sort of "ho hum" interview. Then the station announcer asked if Social Security had any plans to mark people. The representative laughed nervously and said the Christian audience may dislike his answer. In a few words, he said there are plans to tag new babies with identification implants, starting around the year 2000. I went through the roof and my teen age son had plenty of room to follow.

Will this take place? A nearsighted individual would find good reasoning for this type of registration. Tax evasion could be stopped with no freely circulating cash. Spending could be tracked and your money would be safe. Robbery of money would stop until people started cutting you up to take your chip and make a quick purchase. This would certainly make a way for a one world government to function. Frankly, I would rather die in the mountains before taking something like that. I would get hungry, but I certainly would not be alone. It was also rumored the tagging of our Babies is part of the world trade agreement! We shall see if this is true or just another sensational rumor.

Symbols Have Substance

A literal reading of Revelation would seem to indicate the above marks are an omen of a coming one world power. However, if none of these marks lead to a Satanic government, we still have a greater concern. Revelation is a book of many symbols with real substance. Revelation’s mark symbolizes the condition of our soul and denotes our spiritual standing. The mark upon our soul will seal our eternal state!

An Old Mark

In the day Revelation was pinned, all the world knew about the practice of substituting numbers for the letters in a name. Boy friends often wrote love graffiti in this manner upon walls. When John wrote about the 666 it was easily understood to add up to the total value of the name Lateinos, denoting the Roman Empire and Caesars. This might also easily be applied to Nero a most wicked Caesar. This was easily understood to be the "number of his name." At the time of Revelation’s writing, this number found application to Old Rome but there was also a clear indication of a future event. {As Prophesied in Revelation Seventeen.} By denying past or future application of such Prophecies, the Bible is effectively de-threaded. Past, present, or future fulfillments of prophecy, are equally in God’s mind on the day of articulation.

Modern Graffiti

Many modern day people have been labeled an antichrist, because of the numerical value of their name. Hitler was a favorite and if you are creative in Hebrew and sound out the William Clinton correctly, {Sorry, Democrats} you might also arrive at an even 666 in total. There are so many books and booklets about the mark, how can we know what it means? Lets pull one of our threads running through the Bible. This will give some insight into the meaning of the mark.

A Mark is on Me!

When a craftsman is proud of his work, he places a trade mark on his product. God created man in his image. Genesis says, Adam was literally made a little "idol" of God. In the fall, we obtained a different image like the wicked one. God had the first mark on man but sin introduced another signature. Satan continues to mark those who follow him. Cane received a mark from God as a result of his sin and for his protection. The earth received a mark from the blood of Abel. The ground was cursed for Cane’s sake.

God started using a good mark with Abraham. Circumcision became God’s mark and it separated God’s people from the rest. This marking was a prophecy of the more potent act of spiritual circumcision in the heart. In Exodus the Hebrews were told to mark their door with the blood. Later they were to always write the laws of God over their doorposts. In prayer the Hebrews tightly bind the laws of God to the hand and head as they worshipped God. This marking revealed whom they served. A hand shows service and a head shows thinking. (These marks give fresh insight into the location of the mark of the Beast.) God revealed in the prophets how he would make a new Covenant and write these laws on the hearts of the people. That is a real mark and better than any outward tattoo.

In Israel, any servant who did not want to leave his master at the conclusion of his indenture could stay. He was pierced with an awl through his ear to the door post of his master's house. Meaning, we need to die to self and hear only Jesus the Door. That is a real mark of the servant of God and of a master’s true Love Slave. Jesus said I am the door and he was deeply marked by that Love. Jesus took our mark of sin. "And one shall say unto him, What are these wounds in thine hands? Then he shall answer, Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends." (Zechariah 13:6)

In redemption we receive the image of God afresh. This is the most wonderful mark any one could ever have. We start to look like Jesus. Marked for God? Marked for the Devil? Whom have you been looking at lately and you will know whose mark is on you.

So, the mark is not just one fulfillment in the future. The mark is here today. Whose mark do you carry? You will be judged for your answer just the same as the people who fulfill the 666 of Revelation. We who are living are all called in this hour. We are both called by God and the Devil. "Come! Come!" Whom do you hear calling? Whom will you answer today?

More than Skin Deep

Warning, don’t be fooled thinking the mark is only on you by what you write on your flesh. Your manner of living marks your hand in the service you give. Your thinking marks your head. Thinking can only be corrected by conversion through the Word of God. We must fill our thoughts with God’s word and so have the mark of God upon our heads. This is the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy.

Danger! Don’t downplay the symbolism we use here. Revelation is very real and yet full of symbolism. All literal and symbolical parts will be lived by you today! You won't be around in the future and trust me the Devil won’t let this generation skip the test. Don’t let Satan steal your Crown!!!

We are all receiving the mark of our master as we live today. The Mark of the Beast is here now! The Seal of God is available to all who call on Jesus.

Come Holy Spirit

Here, we are presenting an abbreviated study of Revelation from the long-standing Protestant perspective. This examination of Protestant thinking is sorely needed given the recent saturation of Futurist teaching. Consider how the Futurist School of prophetic belief is comparatively new and held no reputable credence before 1830. Furthermore, the new Futurist view was not widely circulated before 1900.

The Protestant school of prophetic interpretation is not new. This was the cornerstone of the Reformation and the key to its success. The Reformers would have never found Salvation while following today’s Futurist beliefs. Because of their strong prophetic doctrines they were able to withdraw from the Church that forbade them the Bible. These pilgrims recognized their enemy as antichrist. They understood from prophecy that antichrist would demand worship in the place of Jesus and oppose God’s Word. They, therefore, bravely set aside his claims of spiritual dominion and made the Scripture their guide. Millions sealed their convictions with their martyrdom. The Reformers are thank-worthy for freeing to us the Bible and the Gospel of faith.

However, there is a modern danger as one sets out in search of the Reformers thinking. Satan has laid snares in our path. The Devil doesn’t want to be found out and will try to capture you before he is discovered. He has sewn errors in some modern groups that profess to carry great enlightenment. These groups hold a polluted cup that will prove to contain a deadly mixture.

A Snare of Satan, A Word of Warning

• Snare One

Anyone reading this book will know of the Thousand Year Reign of Christ. This is a literal reign and is one of the great hopes of the Church. Jesus will come and Jesus will reign. In that day, the Lion will lie down with the Lamb, and men will beat their swords into plowshares.

As you know the "False Witnesses Concerning Jehovah," (Kingdom Hall) make God’s future kingdom their "pet" doctrine. Does their acceptance of an isolated truth, sully God’s prophetic hope? No, we hold to the Word and pray for the Children of Bondage. These Watchtower Slaves desperately need someone to free them from the auction block of the deceiver.

• Snare Two

The Book Of Mormon tells of man’s need to be washed in the Blood of Jesus for Salvation. We must not lay down our Salvation when others pervert and twist this precious truth. A little study of Mormon writings will reaffirm; speaking a truth and having an experience are in no way connected. These people twist their own warped scripture with such impunity they must certainly blush in the reading. They nullify clumsy writings by adding to them the ancient lie of the Rome. This lie places the power of Salvation in the touch of a few selected humans.

Again, "there is nothing new under the Sun."

• Snare Three, Please Stand Clear!

In a similar fashion, there is a group that holds to the Protestant interpretation of prophecy. However, they only retain some elements of Old Protestant thinking while mixing in the error of the Galatians. This is the Seventh Day Adventist sect. They have produced massive volumes on prophecy and have nicely presented some connected history. Caution, their conclusions are terribly flawed! They do not follow the Biblical view of Salvation through faith. Their teaching always returns to the error of legalism and bondage to the Law.

Adventism originated in the "date setting" system of Lacunza and Irving. In Galatians, Paul described people under "Adventist like" bondage as under a spell of witchcraft! Saturday is truly the old Sabbath but Paul made his message in Galatians most clear. The council at Jerusalem agreed and established a non-legalistic guide for non-Jewish Christians. Finally, God terminated all Jewish feasts, with the destruction of the Temple. Without Temple worship the law has totally collapsed as a means of seeking God’s approval. Salvation through faith is our only hope! "Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath days:" (Colossians 2:16) Legalism removes the blessing of Christ as completely as unbelief. Jesus is my only Sabbath and true rest and in him alone do I trust. Jesus is the beginning and fulfillment of the Sabbath law.

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Prophetic Faith of our Fathers, -- LeRoy Edwin Froom, Volume III, Page 303 about Lacunza, and page 514 about Irving. This Adventist text clearly demonstrates the adoration they hold for these "Second Coming" date setters.

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Half- &-Half, Anyone?

When a mistaken group holds both true and false notions we must reject the wrong. Their true ideas should also be set aside and only embraced from a pure biblical foundation. Caution! Falsehood simultaneously perverts good and bad. Adventists hold some good and bad notions. Please, don’t use Seventh Day Adventist literature as a base for further study into the old Protestant view of prophecy. Their hope is to interest you and finally place you in legalistic bondage that will rob your Salvation.

Legalism waits with claws agape and jaw a-drape. Who will be its next tangy morsel?

• Don’t let the Devil’s minions steal God’s truth from you.
• Don’t fall into delusions these have tied to truth.
• Adventist literature can be identified by the nest it returns to; which is always Salvation by the Law and Sabbath bondage.

Research will demonstrate the Adventist did not author old Protestant Eschatology. They rather gleaned interesting historical information from other Protestant writers in the 1800’s. The Adventist writers next added a peculiar mix of legalism that revokes the grace of God. Old Protestant material is abundant and pure. Therefore, study much but be wary of traps that lead away from Salvation through Christ alone!

The Master Trap

A crafty Jesuit authored the Futurist interpretation of prophecy. His effort was launched under a false identity. He was attempting to bring straying Protestants back to Rome by hiding the well-known embodiment of antichrist’s spirit. Consider the leaven created by this cunning scheme. Satan has put on a mask to hide his person. Therefore, the Church peers in the wrong direction. We are told the Devil is just ahead, while he is already present. His foul stench warns us he is near. We must remember only a fresh anointing and love for God's Word, prevent us from being devoured. Satan plans to steal our hearts and is not above using our knife for the task. Take up your swords my brothers; the fight is upon us!

Is it possible for so many people to be tricked? Well, remember the time when this false "Church" held sway over the world! Satan is still the roaring lion. The fiery stake still waits to receive the determined blood of martyrs. The Devil did not want to lose control of the nations. Great men of God wrested power from Satan and restored "the faith which was once delivered unto the saints." Therefore, we shall consider Revelation, as our Evangelical Fathers of Faith once viewed it.

When the apostles received the Gospel they did not leave Israel. They rather entered the promise given to Israel through Abraham. Any Jewish person was welcomed to believe and enjoy the blessings of Abraham. Outsiders were also invited into the family of God and the nation of promise. Paul confirmed this by saying, Galatians 3:28-29 "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."

The operative word in the Kingdom of God is Grace not Race! Heavens gate swings upon Faith not Fate!

Redeemed Strangers

Gentile converts enter into God's promises and join God’s true and lasting nation of obedience. This prophesied Israel of promise includes all races. Paul said, "Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved." (Romans 9:24-25) During the Millennium ALL of fleshly Israel will believe. Their increasing faith will not remove our place in Christ nor our place in the one eternal Israel of God.

Romans 3:30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

Galatians 6:15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.

Made One in Christ -- Firstfruits

Who are the firstfruits unto God?

Firstfruits in the Scripture

James 1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

Romans 8:23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.

1 Corinthians 15:23 "But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming."

Teachers who divide Israel and the Church create a contradiction. How many firstfruits can there be without creating a secondfruits? There can only be one firstfruits, which is Christ Jesus and we are all included in his body! True faith is the only way to participate in the Israel of God. Salvation and promise are only found in Jesus.

Forget race -- Forget an earthly priesthood --

Forget a physical Temple

Run to the Cross!

Eph. 2:14 For he (Christ) is our peace, who hath made both (Jew and Gentile) one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; 15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

Redeemed from Among Men

These 144,000 are the Church, God's Israel according to faith. (This is a symbolic number containing 12x12x1000. Remember the 24 elders, representing Old and New Testament saints and the cattle on 1000 hills, meaning all hills!) Yes, the remnant of the Jews are there with the converted Gentiles! All are made one in Christ Jesus. (Read Galatians) These are the wise virgins of Matthew 25. This true Israel is not defiled with the woman called Mystery Babylon. We shall stand on Zion with Christ as his faithful Israel.

"But ye are come unto mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels." (Hebrews 12:22)

Jesus on the Move

Revelation 14:7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. . .14 And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. . .20 And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.

After we are safely upon Zion (RAPTURED) with the Lamb, there is trouble down below! God’s wrath will be poured out on the kingdom of antichrist, for "the hour of his judgment is come." Matthew says this will be after a long time of apostasy, persecution and tribulation, which is the predicted persecution of God's Elect. Don't ever forget or be confused, we are not appointed to God's Wrath, but we are promised trials and persecution. Our trouble has been continuing since the days of the Apostles. It will keep on until Jesus comes. Speaking frankly, if persecution and trial are absent, it is possibly a reflection of our lacking charter or witness.

-- Oooh! OUCH! Please get off my toes! --

Therefore, the future tribulation of the wicked will be to their destruction. Our present tribulation is for our refining as gold and not a hair of our head will perish. "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

"Say, Who was that Masked Man?"

Revelation 12:1 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:

This woman was Faithful Israel. She consisted of Hebrews like Abraham, David, Simeon, and Joseph who believed God. She was also composed of Gentiles like the Moabitess, Ruth and Jericho’s harlot, Rahab, who by faith joined true Israel. Their faith linked with Mary’s and blessed the seed of Adam. The faith of God’s true Israel brought forth the Messiah. The Gentile’s inclusion into God’s Israel underscores one truth. Faith is more important than bloodline or flesh.

The symbols around this woman perfectly match the symbols of Joseph’s dreams. Thus we call this woman Faithful Israel, the true and lasting Israel of God. Israel’s Blood line was only blessed when joined with faith and will only continue to be blessed through faith. This is in full agreement with the Old Covenant! Faith is God’s only eternal covenant that brings Salvation and God’s promises.

Israel’s Home Coming

Rev. 12:2 And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.

Micah 5:2-3 But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting. 3 Therefore will he give them up, until the time that she which travaileth hath brought forth: then the remnant of his brethren shall return unto the children of Israel.

Reading Micah 5:2-3, in the light of Revelation 12:2, brings fresh insight to this "Christmas" prophecy. Most of Israel was a faltering lot when Jesus came. The Jews were following a perverted form of their religion concocted in Babylon, called the Talmud. Jesus condemned this false imitation because it nullified the true religion of Israel. (Mark 7:13)

In Revelation 12 the woman called Faithful Israel exercised here faith and brought forth Jesus the Messiah. Once Messiah appeared, Israel’s lost remnant began to return to God. Many Jews gladly believed on Jesus and came from all around to hear him and his disciples. (Acts 4:16, 32, 14:1) At last, the Gospel went everywhere! This Good News was also heard and received by a remnant of the lost or deported tribes of Israel. (Acts 26:7, James 1:1)

The Gentiles received the Gospel as prophesied and became one in the family of God. They were inducted into the woman called Faithful Israel. This was the same woman that had previously brought forth the man child Jesus.

To become a part of Faithful Israel you must receive the God of Israel. To be included is to have the testimony of Jesus. (Rev. 12:17) This agrees with Joel’s message of, "...whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved." Being part of true Israel is only found in Jesus Christ. Fleshly Israel will only be restored in Jesus Christ. Jew and Gentile alike enjoy the benefits as one people in him. To take another view of this is to deny the Gospel!

Caution! Deadly Danger! We now clearly understand our identity as part of the commonwealth of Israel. Therefore, don't be taken captive by legalistic Judaizers who teach the law assures Salvation and as an Israelite you must live under law. This is deadly legalism and will spoil your Salvation! Faith in Jesus is our only hope of Salvation. Remember the law is forever and is forever only fulfilled in Jesus Christ! (Romans 8:3-5)

Reflecting on the Jesuit’s Work

The Reformers firmly believed faithful Israel was extant in the Church. Evidence of this belief is seen all throughout their writings. Lacunza the Jesuit disagreed and argued for a distinct separation of the two. This separation was one of his major themes. He strongly contended for a fleshly Jewish restoration and maintained that the Church had not part in that renewal. Why was Lacunza denying the long held unity of faithful Israel and the Church? Was Lacunza a diligent Bible scholar or a man with a mission? Why would a Jesuit attempt to assign so many blessings to the unbelieving Jews? Hadn’t the Jesuits been among their worst persecutors in Europe? Perhaps a more pressing issue had arisen.

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Schaff confirms that Lacunza the Jesuit introduced the restoration of fleshly Israel apart from the Church. History of the Christian Church, -- Schaff, Vol. 1, page 838.

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Rome was seeking to disarm the Reformation. If the Protestant believer was devalued and striped of his priesthood, he might turn again to an earthy Roman priest. As long as people understood they were kings and priests in God they were free men.

"And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel." (Exodus 19:6)

"And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth." (Revelation 5:10)

Who rightfully possesses the blessings of Abraham? Who will be a kingdom of priests unto the nations? Rome says the Pope possesses and assigns the gifts of God. Lacunza says fleshly Israel inherited the blessings of Abraham. The Reformers declared the believer enjoys both! Christ is the promised blessing of Abraham and we may reach out and receive Him though faith! All of the blessing of Abraham and all of the gifts of God become ours through Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:14)

The Man Child

Revelation 12:5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.

The man child is Jesus, whom the Devil tried to destroy at birth. Jesus takes his seat at the right hand of God.

The Dragon

Revelation 12:3 And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.

4 And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, (the fallen angels) and did cast them to the earth...

This dragon is naturally symbolic of Satan, but his numerous heads, etc. give him a second significance. He is symbolic of Satan inhabiting heathen Rome. There, the Babylonian religion was honed to a sharp edge as the Romans served the Mythological gods.

The Triumph of the Cross

Revelation 12: 7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,

8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.

9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come Salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

Now Is Come Salvation

Because of the Cross, Satan is cast out of his high and heavenly abode. Jesus said, "Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out." (John 12:31) Through Christ’s triumph, men have obtained Salvation and the Devil has been brought down in defeat.

Though Satan is defeated, he still wants to fight. He now walks upon the earth and there continues the fight. Our job is to extend Jesus’ heavenly victory among the nations. We have many mighty weapons to accomplish this task and shall tread down our enemy.

The Blood, Word, and Testimony

The Power of His Christ

Jesus has given us the Gospel of the Kingdom to set men free. The blood of the lamb cleanses from sin as God’s Spirit of power converts the heart. Satan fights to destroy the witness of God’s messengers but shall at last be defeated. The Good News of the Kingdom shall win the day!

A Short Time

A long-lived being like Satan considers the time since Calvary to be very brief. Therefore, he is doing his best to carry out his mischief. He knows Jesus will return and end his day of slaughter. Until Jesus comes, we must put on our armor and meet the foe!

Woe to the ... Earth

Because of the victory of the Cross, Satan as antichrist was cast down to the earth. Thus, an unparalleled age of testing began for God’s elect. We now find ourselves in the unique and long tribulation of prophecy. {Soon to reach 2000 years} The catching away of the saints will end that long period of testing.

Consider the physical contrast between those under the law and under grace.

1. Under the Old Covenant, God’s people were physically protected while they lived righteously. When Israel turned from God they were physically punished. What could be simpler?

2. New Covenant people are given mighty spiritual power but are warned of sure physical persecution and tribulation. Their trouble comes as a direct consequence of Satan’s hatred. New Testament Christians are not given a physical kingdom but look for the eternal reward.

The reason for this discrepancy is that Satan was cast down to earth through the Cross! When that happened the heavens were opened in full spiritual power but the earth became a great battlefield. Remember, we are promised both spiritual victory and a physical struggle. Jesus always taught both principals. Christians from every century will form the unnumbered multitude that comes out of great tribulation. "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man..." (1 Cor. 10:13)

Through the Fire and Flood

Revelation 12: 6 And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days.

13 And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.

14 And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.

15 And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood.

16 And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth.

17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

He Persecuted the Woman

Here is a picture of the early Church as Faithful Israel being persecuted by Satan. Many true believers were killed in the arenas of Rome yet their faith flourished. At last Satan spewed forth a lie that nearly caught the woman but she escaped.

A Flood After the Woman

Satan’s lie was the creation of a counterfeit church. This church was established by the Caesar Constantine, who was a sun worshiper until the end of his life. The imitation Church was built on mass baptisms with no conversion of heart. Heathen practices were introduced into Church meetings. The power of the Holy Ghost and the preaching of the Word were replaced by: idols, relics, and charms of human bones. The clergy and multiplied popes were rift with immorality and vice. Through this universal Church, Satan sat in the "heart temple" and declared himself God.

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Halley’s Bible Handbook, recounts these facts and identifies "the spirit of the DEVIL," that possessed the Roman Church. page 793 Read Halley’s section covering Church History.

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Fly into the Wilderness

With the massive corruption of faith, true believers had to find another place of worship. These believers had to vanish from view or bow to idolatry. The true Church as Faithful Israel continued to live but went into hiding for the next 1260 years. Anyone who did not embrace the idolatrous philosophy of this official Church was horribly persecuted. Some of this story can be found in the History of the Waldenses.

1260 Days

The dragon was Satan living in heathen Rome. When old Rome died, its spirit resurrected into the Beast. This Beast was the Devil sitting in the counterfeit Church of Rome. Thereby, the Dragon’s persecution extended through the 1260 day-years of the woman’s wilderness hiding. The woman was pursued by one spirit inhabiting in two consecutive monstrosities. The truth of this allegation can be seen through the Roman Church’s massacre of 50 million Born Again Christians. The same wicked spirit continues to live in today’s contemporary False Prophet. This spirit maintains a wholesale slaughter house business throughout the earth.

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ibid. pg. 153 and 726 Halley says that "50,000,000" were killed by the Roman Church.

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Enter the Beast

Revelation 13:1 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.

2 And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.

3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. (The coming chapter on Revelation, 17, will cover the deadly wound at length.)

4 And they worshipped the dragon 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?

The Beast which I Saw

Here arises the bane of all good men. Of all the wicked governments in all generations, this Beast epitomizes the worst. His spirit is one with the Dragon. He is particularly odious, in that this Beast takes on the guise of good and identifies with the divinity of Jehovah. All the good and Godly men of previous centuries knew who this beast was. Luther felt his breath upon his neck but escaped. John Hus knew the flaming anger of his wrath. John Wesley understood his Identity and John Bunyan spent 12 years, as the prisoner of his spirit. These all named the Beast outright and without apology. King James’ Bible Translation included a barb for the Beast in the introduction. Before 1900, very few considered another identity. This Beast trampled righteous men whereever they were found. Righteous men named him quickly and without debate!

His Power, His Seat, and Authority

Godly men once spoke with one voice. This Beast was none other than the Roman Catholic Church. This Church was the creation of a heathen Caesar Constantine. For 1260 years it held unprecedented power in political and spiritual matters. Kings were set up and brought down by the word of the Popes. Men's souls were saved or lost at the whim of this Beast. Only through the redistribution of the Bible was Satan’s kingdom broken.

Today, the leaders of Rome still bemoan the wide spread use of the Bible. They maintain tradition and office are higher authorities than God's Word. Our present Government has also picked up this beastly attitude. Why must our children be separated from the only truth that can give them a good life? Apparently, the brute of Hell has come to Washington.

Please, read any Protestant commentary from the previous century to confirm our contention. You cannot miss in your search; just be sure it was written before 1900. I am including one quote from Matthew Henry's. Please look into the rest of what is said by our Brother Henry. He will shed light, on more than you might imagine.

Matthew Henry understood the beast and said, "The source and spring of his (the Beast’s) authority,...the dragon, he gave him his power, and seat, and great authority...A dangerous wound given him, and yet unexpectedly healed...by the healing of the wound the introducing of the popish idolatry, the same in substance with the former, (Speaking of old Heathen Rome.) only in a new dress." (Speaking of the Roman Church.)

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Matthew Henry's Commentary, from Revelation 13:1-10

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Am I a Solder of the Cross?

Revelation 13:5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.

6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.

7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

Continue Forty and Two Months

How long did this Beast hold sway in the earth? His power extended for 1260 Days or day years. Daniel uses the same day year principal on occasions. Through this time the Beast was outwardly victorious. I use to describe this period as the time of the back-slidden Church. The Spirit of God soundly rebuked me for my misstatement. These apostates never were God's Church but were the offspring of Satan from their birth!

From the time the Heathen Emperor Constantine took power over the visible Church, until the effectual Reformation arrived was 1260 years. Old commentaries on prophecy give specific dates for these events. However, don't be too rigid on which event is the principal fulfillment. Remember, the 70 years of Babylonian Captivity arrived at different times for different groups. The restoration of Judah also came at different times for varying groups. There was a sort of sliding scale applied to each end of the prophetic ruler, because there was more than one deportation and returning.

Likewise, several steps brought in the apostasy of the visible Church and several steps marked deliverance from that apostasy. Therefore, the entrance of Satan and the liberation of the Word of God can be correctly tied to one or several dates on each end of the 1260 years. A sort of sliding scale appears, with the years working out correctly for more than one set of events. Protestant interpreters don’t

always pick the same events but the total time frame works out with chilling accuracy.

Illustrating the Prophecy

The Dragon with Seven Heads (Heathen Rome) passed its power to the Beast. (The Roman Church) This was accomplished when the heathen Caesar Constantine founded the Roman Church while using his ancient Babylonian religion as a guide. Under Babylon’s false religion, a Pope and Cardinals maintained central control and every religion was blended into one.

The Roman Church of today proudly states its temporal authority was inherited from Constantine. Thus, the prophetic details describing the Beast’s origin and reign, perfectly reflect the history of Catholicism. The actions of that Church equally confirm its dark heritage.

War with the Saints

The Roman Church made war on the saints of God for 1260 years. Millions were killed for their faith and love of Christ. This Beast used a cloak of religion, to exploit the souls of men. Rome discouraged true conversion of heart at every turn. The feet of idols were kissed in worshipful love, along with the toe of the Pope. Lost souls heaped adoration upon this Apostasy, which at last became the meat and joy of demons.

A Just Recompense

9 If any man have an ear, let him hear.

10 He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.

At last the Reformation and living Gospel has sprung forth in these last days. The true Reformation was the open preaching of the Gospel to the world. Wars in the Reformation period were shadows of the judgment God holds in store for the Great Apostasy. This wicked system with its leader the Devil, will be judged and bound by Jesus through the Millennium. Those people who worshipped the beast, will at last be judged after the 1,000 year reign of Christ. Notice, the beast has lost his power but is not dead. He stands by watching the rise of the next monster who shares the same wicked spirit.

The False Prophet

Revelation 13:11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.

12 And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.

13 And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men,

14 And deceiveth 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, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.

15 And he 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.

Here is the final member of the Unholy Trinity. This monster though not physically seen holds power in the minds and service of men. Communism follows his biding today, as Hitler did in the past. Some have said the United States embodies his spirit. Our nation started with the horns of a LAMB, (gentle and meek) but in these later times speaks with the voice of a dragon. (Our leaders spew forth lies and legalize the slaughter of our most innocent.)

All the Power of the First Beast

The Beast of Roman Catholicism once captivated the nations in mind and soul. The many people outside of its sphere were lost because Rome hid the Gospel from the world! Today’s present False Prophet shares an equal sin. He is anti-Gospel and is a reincarnation of the Roman spirit of antichrist. The question is not who he is in name but what he is in spirit. This monster leads many groups that oppose Jesus and the Scriptures. When people seek the favor of God through any path apart from Jesus alone, they become part of the False Prophet that is now in the earth!

Would not Worship the Image

Before the Reformation our fathers had no option but to lose their faith or lose their life. They made a wise choice and we have reaped a wealth of glory. Today, with a weakened Beast things seem more calm. However, the False Prophet still carries a bag of lies. Through him the spirit of antichrist still lives. We defeat his lies with the truth of God’s Word. We break his power by separating from his physical kingdom.

Presently, God is saving Roman Catholics by the multiplied thousands. We lovingly admonish these to come out of Babylon and not partake of her wrath. The Pope and Priests do not hold the keys of eternal life. Jesus alone holds these keys with all believers. Many Catholics are coming to understand this truth. We call these to make their final break to freedom. They must defend their future generations from the false teachers, which maintain the ancient errors of heathen Rome. With love we call everyone out of Babylon. We also call those in dead and unbelieving Protestant groups to depart and enter the move of God. Like the children of Israel in the wilderness, we must follow the cloud as it moves.

Two Horns like a Lamb

Notice, the False Prophet has no royal crowns. He has two horns that symbolize two regions of power. This is comparable to the two legs of the image of Daniel. In Daniel these legs represented the divided Roman Empire and Divided Roman Church. The idol’s two feet illustrated the Eastern and Western division of Rome and the division of the Eastern and Western churches.

Could two horns represent a single minded, two pronged power in the near future? Could this power be today’s Eastern and Western nations? Will these unite into a Super Rome? Will Communism or Capitalism be the guiding principal the end time government?

When Jesus returns to earth, our form of human government will hold no significance. Our eternity depends upon this small question. When Christ appears, "Shall he find faith?" The False Prophet is already living in the hearts of many men. Our Reformation fathers believed one individual could never fulfill the quantity of wickedness, ascribed to the antichrist. They observed that he was an evil spirit, moving from one host to the next. Every generation experiences antichrist, and naturally there will be a particularly bad one at the coming of Jesus. Presently, our antichrist must be confronted and defeated. In Christ the victory is ours!

Arm in Arm, or in a Line?

I differ with many Reformers in identifying the False Prophet. Most Reformers envisioned the False Prophet and the Beast reigning together. Thus, the Beast was the Roman Church, while the Bishops and Priests were the False Prophet.

In retrospect I conclude the False Prophet was not concurrent with the Beast. He is rather a subsequent monstrosity which arrives after the 1260 years of the Beast. Rev. Alexander Hislop agreed with this in principal. Hislop’s explanation joined both my view and the Reformers view so that the False Prophet was fulfilled in the past and yet lives the present. John Wesley also saw the False Prophet as a coming evil and said, "He has not yet come, though he cannot be far o