Question #1:
Did we just "dodge a bullet"?
Response #1:
If you mean, because Revelation 8:5 did not transpire yesterday (or the day
before), that we have seven year respite, it's possible. If we make it to
November and all remains as it was and is, then I think that's likely. Next
major date is Yom Kippur (9/20-21). Other things to consider are 1) the fact
that six months after Passover is the first week of October (Rev.8:1), and 2)
whether or not the present holiday calendar is a month early.
I certainly won't be disappointed if we do get that respite!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #2:
Hello my friend,
I hate to add any burden on you, but I would really appreciate your
prayers once again.
[omitted]
The pastor from the church where I helped with Vacation Bible School
said he will come to the hospital that morning. __ was also attending
Steven's classes on Saturdays until we took this pause for him to study
the Jewish Calendar so he could teach about the gaps. Steven said today
in a post that he has finally been able to understand all his questions-
thank you for going the extra mile on that! I was glad __ was interested
in joining us.
I am attempting to be cautious about being involved in the local church.
I do see a few here who are interested in the truth, but I don't want
the general lukewarmness of the majority to make me settle for the
crumbs.
Another concern is that __ will most likely still be in the hospital the
10th and 11th. I didn't say anything, but the "announcement" may come
while __ is in there. Tell me I have nothing to fear from a worldwide
earthquake, even on floor 7. (I have no idea what floor) The Lord is
able to protect us wherever we may be, and the "announcement" is not a
judgment against His family. I'm trying to strengthen the weak knees,
but there's still that nudge saying that a big building is not a good
place to be if you expect an earthquake.
Finally, __ is moving to Italy for a year. As far as I know, still into
the New Age beliefs, so in a real sense in more danger than __. I sure
don't understand everything you wrote on the coming Tribulation, but I
would think "Rome" is not the place to be. We did have a good talk last
weekend and I pray some seeds were planted.
I am keeping you in my prayers and am thanking God daily for you, your
website, and those airbags.
In Christ the Solid Rock,
Response #2:
It's no burden at all. I've added these concerns to my list.
I never got the report on VBS. Last I heard you'd been left to do it all by
yourself – I guess you survived!
In terms of big buildings and etc., if we think hard enough about any such
situation, there are probably easily a thousand complications we might imagine.
And no doubt ten times that amount (at least) that we'd never think of. We do
what is reasonable, but when it comes to things like this that are completely
out of our control, we trust the Lord to see to our safety and deliverance,
casting our cares upon Him because He cares for us (1Pet.5:7). What we can do is
limited; what He can do is unlimited. So we have a right to turn over all such
impossible situations to Him and have confidence that He will work them out for
us for the good for us who love Him – just as we have seen Him do for us so many
times in the past.
The purpose of the Revelation 8:5 events is to proclaim the Tribulation's
commencement, but note that it comes in response to the prayers of the saints.
That is to say, we all pray every day, "Thy kingdom come!", and it won't until
the seven years – and the complete defeat of evil those seven years will see –
have passed. Given that the announcement is for our sake, I'm confident that it
won't harm us who are eagerly waiting for our Lord's return; unbelievers,
especially those who follow the beast, are the ones who need to fear.
“Now prophesy all these words against them and say to them: “ ‘The LORD will roar from on high; he will thunder from his holy dwelling and roar mightily against his land. He will shout like those who tread the grapes, shout against all who live on the earth. The tumult will resound to the ends of the earth, for the LORD will bring charges against the nations; he will bring judgment on all mankind and put the wicked to the sword,’ ” declares the LORD. This is what the LORD Almighty says: “Look! Disaster is spreading from nation to nation; a mighty storm is rising from the ends of the earth.”
Jeremiah 25:30-32 NIV
"Behold, He is coming quickly. Happy is he who guards the words of the prophecy of this book [in his heart]."
Revelation 22:7
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #3:
I’m sorry I didn’t get back to you about VBS. I hesitated to write
because I know you have so much on your plate, but I’m working on
getting past that. I truly appreciate the time and care you give us, and
I’m grateful for your patience with all my questions.
I wanted to update you: surgery was canceled and rescheduled. I know the
Lord is working this all out according to His greater plan.
Another “announcement” question if I may: do you think it will occur
precisely at sundown? And if so, would that be sundown in Israel, or
something like a rolling quake as the sun sets across the globe? Or is
it simply that it will happen sometime on that particular day?
I’m still holding these things loosely, but I do ponder them. I get
nervous about the upcoming events, but like you, I pray every day for
our Lord to come. I yearn for Him to be here physically with us and for
us to receive our glorified bodies.
In Jesus,
Response #3:
At least it's a bit of peace of mind that the surgery was delayed.
Praying for health and for the op.
On the announcement, Rosh Hashanah, Jewish new year, starts at sunset .
. . which in KY on EDT is about noon (since it would be Jerusalem time).
So tomorrow or Friday . . . or in October . . . or if one of the other
holidays, Yom Kippur in particular, turns out to be the one (if there is
an overlap), we'll know by November for sure about this year. In terms
of exactly how it works, all I know is what's in those passages, the
gist of which is that no one will fail to notice – even if unbelievers
fail to take these things to heart or to take them seriously at all.
We believers have a right to be at peace, the peace of faith rest, at
all times. We have that right – and that ability – because, in the
Spirit, we can always be looking forward to what is coming, the
resurrection and our reward, which will come no matter what happens down
here.
Keeping you and your family in my daily prayers, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #4:
Good evening, Professor.
I'm delighted with your clear response. I was looking forward to some shaking
today and I will endeavor to continue looking forward until the day our Lord
returns- whenever that may be.
I have been thinking I should tell you that I appreciate the fact that you have
been willing to put yourself and your reputation on the line to present your
discoveries from the Scriptures. Those who think because we don't know the "day
and hour" we therefore can’t know anything — and shouldn’t even look into it —
must have given you no small amount of grief over the years.
I have some around me that are concerned that if it doesn't happen as we see the
plan revealed then I would lose all faith. I know that's not true. A date is
such a small thing to lose one's faith over; that would be no faith at all. If
this isn't it, we wait. Probably 7 years. But even if it's two thousand, we wait
on the Lord. He will arrive right on time.
Thank you for your prayers and encouragement. I'm grateful for your teaching and
taking the time to answer my questions. You are in our prayers here as well.
In Jesus,
Response #4:
Thank you so much for this!
That's exactly the way I feel about it too, and I greatly appreciate your
encouraging words.
No shaking and quaking today. I looked down at my watch as I was entering my
12:00 class and realized that the precise moment had come and gone . . . and
felt a good deal of relief. As you observe, however, there are a lot of
possibilities and moving parts here. We're all going to have to adopt your wise
attitude . . . and just take things one day at a time, no matter how many "days"
we're looking at. After all, that's what we're supposed to be doing anyway
(Matt.6:34; cf. Mk.13:35-37).
Keeping you and your family in my daily prayers. Thanks so much for yours as
well.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #5:
To my friend Bob,
How are you doing this week? How is your health, work and ministry work faring?
Have been trying my best the last few weeks to keep throwing punches as well as
blocking them. Taking steps forward spiritually and moving forward on all
fronts. Today I feel a bit (as __ would say in Yiddish) 'verklempt' though he
says 'verkrumpt'.
[omitted]
Bob, I know my ministry is not for abusers who have 'personality disorders' or
'strong demonic influence' over their life and I know it is for believers not
unbelievers...the difficulty is trying to help people who are in the
thrall/radius of such dreadful people. You invariably get exposed to these
abusive types yourself (when they're in the family) and I guess I am royally
sick and tired of demons and the demonically influenced which is moot given that
the Tribulation will be dominated by such types and behaviours.
I know we are to seek peace with everyone as much as possible but these
abusive/controlling/entitled types really push my buttons! I have no
time/patience with these types anymore as they are not interested in the Lord at
all so I see them as huge time wasters and a drain on my energy so on the whole
I avoid them like the plague now. It's not nice to see certain people as being
plague-like but I now see there is precious little point in wasting time on
those who are reprobates and really thrown their lot in with Satan's rebellion
here. It just frustrates me that I run into these types more and more with
alarming frequency. It's like dodging endless potholes in front of me whilst
trying to keep my pace motoring forward.
As you said before though, we only need to resist the devil and he will flee
from us.
I saw Sunday's posting and that the Tribulation may/may not commence this month
or next month...or maybe seven years more. In all seriousness Bob. I have a very
funny feeling about Friday September 11th this week...I know many Jewish
communities are on high alert here for this date.
Also been noticing 'weirdnesses' happening with our telecommunications here.
They are supposed to be switching our copper phone lines onto the fibre
connections that are used for broadband. I have HUGE misgivings about this as I
deliberately bought wired phones for both ours and my parents' homes as they are
meant to still be live even during a power outage which would not be the case if
they are connected through the internet cables.
Already the switch over in this country has been a complete chaotic disaster
with phone systems regularly dropping out, missing hubs and connectors that were
meant to be sent out etc. etc.
It's been bothering me this week the thought of an EMP attack on Friday. Don't
know why but I have it stuck in my mind. I know we shouldn't fear man or his
man-made attacks but just the same.
Would you buy yourself some candles, candlesticks, matches, torches, batteries
and a manual can opener just in case? Also on Thursday night charge phones etc
then and don't leave any necessaries plugged in the wall on Friday in case my
hunch is correct. Hopefully Saturday will roll around and all this will be a
storm in a teacup...but just in case.
Also just in case...here is an 'emergency message' from me to you with no expiry
date. You can read it now or in the future, whenever it is most appropriate.
Bob, I have known you for almost my entire walk with the Lord which began around
2017. You have been a good and loyal friend and brother in Christ to me. You
have been patient, understanding, attentive and constant. You and your precious
ministry has been invaluable in helping me to grow up in the Lord so that I have
been able to become more mature, to learn deeply and authoritatively in the
Word, to protect me from false teaching and false movements, to sharpen and
encourage me so I am now able to prepare for ministry myself.
If there ever comes a time that this technology fails and we are forced to live
in a more simpler and agrarian society during the Tribulation (and I do wonder
about whether verse Matt 24:41 hints at this): if I am not able to communicate
freely and easily with you as I am now, know that for every day that I draw
breath in this world, I will pray for you, yours and your ministry.
As long as I am here you will have my love and support, my prayers, my
ministering and fellowship. Should we ever lose contact for any reason come the
troubles ahead, know that I am somewhere praying for you and looking forward to
meeting you face to face before the glorious presence of our coming Lord and
Saviour!
Your very sincerely grateful friend in Christ,
Response #5:
I'm doing a lot better. Still a bit fatigued and the neck is still a bit sore,
but considering what happened less than a month ago I'm pretty satisfied with
the progress.
I'm sorry to hear that your health is still an issue (I am praying for you
daily). Also that you've encountered such flak from these friends and relatives.
But, as you recognize, yours is not an apologetic "wrestle with the unbelievers"
ministry, but a "throw a life preserver to struggling believers" ministry.
Whenever we're doing what we're supposed to be doing, we do face opposition.
Interesting. I just got rid of my landline finally about a month or so ago. It
is very true that we are dependent upon "tech" and that it wouldn't take much to
scramble it all. Is that how the Tribulation will play out? Possibly. I
certainly can't tell you about that one way or another from scripture. In terms
of practicalities, if I were rich there were a lot of things I might do to
attempt to insulate against potential disasters. I've got a few flashlights and
some (probably now defunct) spare batteries, but that's about it. A person could
have a veritable fortress stocked with every survivalist delight known to man .
. . and then the minions of the beast could come and take it all away overnight.
We have to do what we feel comfortable with. As with most such areas of
application, somewhere between having nary a candle or a match or a radio on the
one hand, and stocking the cellar with years worth of provisions and ammunition
on the other, is a sweet spot we can live with which also bespeaks wisdom on the
one hand and trust in God on the other.
Thanks much for your "testament". If I ever get hit by a bus (as opposed to
another one of those "fast trees"), Steven T. would be the contact point (you
could find him through
the
"fellowship" link at Ichthys).
Thanks for your prayers, my friend! Keeping you in mine every day.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #6:
Hi Bob,
Is not abortion the same as child sacrifice except now we've progressed to the
point where we don't have to listen to the children scream or hire drummers to
hide the noise?
Is not the sexual perversion of today the same as what the Israelites did that
got them and the Cananites kicked off their land?
Is that perversion the same as why God brought the Babylonians and Assyrians
against Israel?
Is that perversion not what brought on the droughts, storms and earthquakes like
we seem to be suffering now?
If God used Babylon and Assyria to conquer enemies, would not God do the same
with us? Will we be destroyed as was Babylon and Assyria? Is this the basis for
your belief that the US is the new Babylon?
Are these beliefs in these "freedoms" that we practice not the same as the
Israelites belief in foreign gods?
Sorry to burden you with these questions, but the more I understand scripture,
the more these thoughts haunt me. The evil we see today has existed since Adam
and Eve walked out of the garden. Why should we expect any different treatment
than that suffered by those of old. Whether or not the Tribulation begins in the
next month or two or seven years from now, will we not suffer the same
retribution?
I should quit scanning the news altogether. I pray you and yours are well.
In our Lord,
Response #6:
It's all bad, but anything that is deliberately part of overt worship of pagan "gods" is incrementally worse – since it is voluntary engagement in demonism.
What am I saying then? That an idol is anything, or what is offered to idols is anything? Rather, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice they sacrifice to demons and not to God, and I do not want you to have fellowship with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the Lord’s table and of the table of demons.
1st Corinthians 10:19-21 NKJV
If the Lord wanted to judge this country for its collective misdeeds, there would be no lack of fodder for the indictment. In my reading of US history, that has always been the case. The fact that we are still around probably has more to do with the "blessing by association" that genuine believers have been responsible for providing this country than anything else.
Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.
Proverbs 11:11 NIV
So if things are getting worse, not just in terms of offensive behavior but also
in terms of consequences, my diagnosis would be that the "remnant according to
the election of grace" (Rom.11:5 KJV) is continuing to shrink as well as losing
its saltiness (Matt.5:13; cf. Mk.9:50; Lk.14:34-35). That puts an ever greater
weight of responsibility on those of us who are "doing our job" to persevere and
motivation to do so more and more – if we care about this country.
Meanwhile, yesterday was the first day of classes for the year and it was a
load.
I had my car totaled on the way home from work Friday after a very long and
difficult day. I didn't break anything but I've got lots of aches and bruises,
the head is a bit foggy and I'm rather fatigued.
[omitted]
Prayers for insurance to work out and to get through this week at work
appreciated [n.b., God did work it out wonderfully
well, and I now have better "wheels" and am feeling well with near total
recovery – thank you everyone for your prayers!]!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #7:
Bob, you've certainly had your share of grief recently. Is U of L supportive?
Can I also understand your classes and department are safe for the school year?
Regardless, you can count on my prayers.
Your car didn't look good. The photo didn't show the driver's side, but hitting
you there and careening you in to a tree must have been a shock. I'm thankful
you walked away from that. God is good and he has answered my prayers.
I appreciate your answer, but I'm not sure I see how belief in a "woman's right
to choose" and the current free love nonsense and drugs is not a part of pagan
worship. Neither here or there, though. We're swirling down the drain.
I pray you heal well.
In our Lord,
Response #7:
Today I'm already feeling much better. Not 100% but somewhere in the nineties.
Main thing is a little fatigue, but classes went very well again today, even
better than Monday, I think (you'd have to ask my students to be sure about
that!). Tomorrow I don't have anything I have to do so I'm planning to sleep in
and take it easy all day long.
None of my classes were cancelled. My PTL had to back out at the last minute so
my first year Latin section is overflowing. Also, I've got 17 for Greek (it's
been years since I've had that many)! So thanks for your prayers!
Re: "part of pagan worship", well, we do have the likes of Colossians 3:5
and Ephesians 5:5, but in the OT and NT pagan worship involved express obeisance
to and ritual observance of the cults of false gods in their physical temples.
When antichrist comes on the scene, many "churches" (as well as other "places of
worship"), may well be "pagan temples" in fact once they devote themselves to
the beast's religion. But that will also involve overt worship (as opposed to
"merely" sinful or evil behavior).
The second beast was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that the image could speak and cause all who refused to worship (proskyneo; literally, bow down to and kiss) the image to be killed.
Revelation 13:15 NIV
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #8:
Hi Bob,
Thank the Lord you're well and the worst you suffered is a bruising. My mother
was killed in a driver's side collision. The other drivers should have been
jailed or fined at the least.
It sounds like your classes are growing. That's good news. Sorry to hear about
your part time help. Does that mean you'll have to take on the classes? How many
classes can you handle? Particularly recovering from surgery and now the
battering of the accident? Is the school supportive?
Re: "ritual observance of the cults" Have you just described the Catholic
church, JWs, etc., and hospitals? I thank God you came out of your surgery
whole. I worried about that. Yes, as you surmised, I have a bad attitude. My
experience with doctors and hospitals has not been good. Isn't a hospital the
latest version of the temple of Asclepius. Maybe without the prostitution that
we know of, but close enough for jazz as we used to say. Needless to say I'm not
a Greek scholar or student of history, but that's what I've read. And I should
probably be skeptical of that, too.
In any event, thanks for the update. I pray your healing continues well.
In our Lord,
Response #8:
That's terrible about your mom. How old were you when that happened?
On the class, about half of those students moved over into my section so I have
a full house; we lost about half a dozen or so. I'm hoping to retain half or
more for next year (a lot of our students now only need one year of language –
but it would have been worse if the administration had had their way last fall
and gotten rid of the language requirement altogether).
I hear what you're saying. I would still maintain that there is a significant
difference between openly worshiping Baal or the beast on the one hand and doing
things / going places where there are great similarities but no avowed link.
That will be an important distinction during the Tribulation. No one is
accidentally going to take the mark. The avowal will be public and the meaning
unmistakable and obvious to all who see the person thereafter, tattooed on the
head or right hand.
Thanks for those prayers, my friend!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #9:
Hi Bob,
I was in my mid 60s when she passed. My wife passed 6 years earlier. Both were
believers, so I hope to see them again.
Hmm... Interesting about the school's language requirements. From what I
remember (which is little) one year of Latin barely gets you started. One year
of Greek must be near impossible. I'll be curious to learn how this develops.
I apologize. I didn't mean to be argumentative. My understanding of scripture,
particularly the apostasy during the Exodus and given the sexual promiscuity
alluded throughout scripture, I believed it was all happily voluntary. Much like
the perversion I see today. There's much I don't know about ancient history. I
do agree that given the descriptions in scripture, things will be radically
different. We're now T-two weeks and counting to the probably window. I pray to
God I have the strength to resist that nonsense. I don't expect to survive it
anyway, which will be a relief.
I pray the battering and bruising is healing well and it didn't affect your
recent surgery.
In our Lord,
Response #9:
Thanks for the info and the prayers.
Got through my Friday. Pretty tough week.
Thanks for your support, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #10:
Hi Bob,
I never had any carousing days, though not for lack of opportunity. When my
folks dropped me off at school, my Mom said, "Just don't bring home any strange
diseases." That put the kibosh on whatever 60s adventure I might have explored.
That's stayed with me ever since, although today I wish I had the energy
required. Today's degeneracy makes the 60s look like an afternoon tea party.
I too am very interested in what the next days bring. I'm of two minds: either
minimizing it assuming we don't know what the Jewish calendar was, or wondering
if today's interpretation is what matters. Like many things, I have no way of
knowing so I'll just trust that the Lord does. Don't be surprised if I ask if
you experienced the same as I did. I truly don't see how things can continue to
degenerate.
As an aside, many of the later Psalms have a label of "Psalm of Ascents" (NIV).
KJV uses "Song of Degrees" which I don't understand, either. What does that
mean? I understand the words ascent and degrees, but I can't relate that to the
Psalms I read.
You and yours remain in my prayers. Thank you for yours.
In our Lord Jesus,
Response #10:
Having good parents is a boon not to be underestimated. I wouldn't be where I am
without them (and I'm eternally grateful for everything they did for me).
Re: "I'll just trust that the Lord does". As should we all. I'm not sure
what tomorrow will bring. I do know that the Lord told us not to worry about
that. There's enough trouble to deal with today (Matt.6:34).
On "ascents", there are plenty of theories, but without the music, it's
difficult to judge what is meant. The root is from the common verb 'alah
which means "to go up" (so "degrees" or "steps" as in "up the temple steps" is
also possible). Whether it's a metrical ascent, ascending octaves, or
"ascending" to the temple or to Jerusalem (one always "goes up" there), is a
matter of debate. What this does show is that while the tune is so important to
us, in holy music it's the words that are important: the text is what God has
preserved for us.
And, by the way, sooner or later we'll all "go up".
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.
1st Thessalonians 4:16-17 NKJV
May your tomorrow be a blessed one, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #11:
Hi Bob,
Thanks for the explanation. I have wished so many times to hear the music of
ancient Israel. David mentions a 10 stringed lyre in his Psalms. That's a
difficult instrument to play. Not something a backwoods rube could master. I'm
not convinced the ancients were unsophisticated; their math, astronomy, recipes
(garum in particularly surprisingly) and I suspect music indicate a level of
sophistication of which we're in ignorance. I suspect there's much we could
learn if we could sit down with them for a discussion. Of course, there's much
we could learn if we could sit down with our parents and ask the questions we
were too dense to ask when we had the opportunity.
'And, by the way, sooner or later we'll all "go up".' That's the day to which I
look forward.
In our Lord Jesus,
Response #11:
Re: "I'm not convinced the ancients were unsophisticated". They were anything but. Greek is a complicated language that allows a sophistication of expression in complex thought that English can't touch. As far as the music goes, we'll hear the best of it on the other side I'm certain.
And I saw what looked like a sea of glass glowing with fire and, standing beside the sea, those who had been victorious over the beast and its image and over the number of its name. They held harps given them by God and sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb.
Revelation 15:2-3a NIV
I do think our food is better (cf.
Apicius'
recipes), but that probably says something too, something not necessarily
flattering.
Looking forward to our "blessed hope" indeed! And more and more each day.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #12:
Hi Bob,
If this man is elected, I will consider it a sign of the final last
days. This is the kind of ecumenism scripture tells us will come. There
are signs supporting this man popping up in yards down here, so a number
of people are already apostatic.
https://www.breitbart.com/faith/2026/09/07/james-talarico-denies-jesus-is-way-says-allah-leads-same-truth/
While his election, whether legal or not, does not mean the tribulation
starts next Friday or your estimates are wrong (a senate term is six
years) it does mean, I think, we're entering the window.
In our only Lord Jesus,
Response #12:
To be honest, the name sounds familiar but I couldn't have told you who he was
(a politician).
We may or may not be "in the window". Then again, we've ALWAYS been "in the
window".
Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.
Revelation 1:3 NIV
So it's never been more important to heed our Lord's good words on the subject:
"But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Luke 21:34-36 NKJV
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #13:
Hi Bob,
You're home early! I hope that's good news. You haven't missed much. The
man is only news in Texas. If he gets into the senate, though, he will
definitely be a problem. More so than normal politicians.
You're right. My days of carousing and drunkenness are long past. In
fact never existed. But I'm seeing more and more signs of people willing
to believe in his nonsense. I doubt it'll effect me but I am interested
in seeing how this all develops. It is quickening and seems worldwide.
Yours in our Lord Jesus,
Response #13:
Well, "only in Texas" isn't the same as "only in Kentucky", e.g..
Glad to hear you're finished carousing. Had to look up the etymology of
that one. Comes from German "gar aus" meaning, "way out" or "to
the max", which, in a bar environment, would mean carouse, I guess.
I'm also interested to see what happens tomorrow and/or Friday . . . if
anything.
Keeping you in my prayers, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #14:
Dr. Luginbill,
I am working through "The Coming
Tribulation" again (third time) but this time for the purpose of teaching it
to our incarcerated son, which means I have to understand it thoroughly before I
can teach it correctly. And boy do I have questions! I have been able to work
through many of them and come to a satisfactory understanding (in my mind)
without bothering you. However, the section in chapter 4, verse 6 discussing the
waters above and the waters below is somewhat perplexing. I can't quite figure
out if "the
waters below" are specifically referring to the oceans covering the
subterranean chambers of Hades, or something else.
For instance, if we imagine the earth and the universe as being inside a balloon
and the balloon itself is the glassy sea or the "waters above" and the third
heaven is located above the earth (outside the universe), then could Hades be
located below the earth (outside the universe), not within the earth itself. In
this analogy the universe - everything we can see and measure, from earth's
atmosphere out to the farthest reaches of space - is contained within that
balloon. The balloon itself is the glassy sea (the waters above). The third
heaven is outside the balloon above it. And Hades - by the same logic - is
outside the balloon below it, not inside the earth itself. So the glassy sea
above separates the holy dwelling place of God from the corrupted universe. The
waters below perform the same separating function at the bottom - locking the
unsaved dead in Hades beneath the universe. Holy God above the universe (outside
the balloon). The place of the dead below (outside the balloon). And mankind in
the middle, in between those two boundaries, living life with a choice to make
about who they want to serve. And when Rev.20:13 says the sea gives up its dead,
the waters below (the lower boundary of the universe), release what they have
been containing beneath them when the time of final judgment arrives. The sea is
removed, the universe disintegrates, and God creates a new heaven and earth
(universe).
If that analogy is all wrong, please set me straight.
I also have a question about references provided in that section. In the part
titled The Rainbow: "And there was a rainbow around the throne similar in
appearance to [something] made of emerald." Revelation 4:4a
I wonder if that quote should have referenced Revelation 4:3b instead of 4:4a?
Thanks again for your ministry. I study it every single day and it has
completely changed my life.
Response #14:
Great to hear from you, and, yes, you are right on the money! The balloon
analogy is terrific. I guess a little balloon inside a big balloon, with the
little balloon inside the earth, so to speak. I don't think I'll be trying to
change my charts. I'm challenged enough trying to do 2D representations.
Thanks also for catching the verse snafu. I divided in the wrong place (wrong
according to the traditional divisions; no such divisions in the original
Greek). Corrected and uploaded.
Thanks for the encouraging words as well! Please do feel free to email me any
time. It's no bother.
Going through Coming Tribulation series again is exactly what I'm doing as well
(link). Plenty of good info on
Curt Omo's site as well (link).
[p.s., special appeal to any and all who have felt the need to contribute to this ministry over the years but have been unable to do so (because it doesn't accept them): please consider blessing Bible Academy with your godly generosity.]
Keeping you and your family and your son in particular in my daily prayers.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #15:
Reading something scary and concerning The Noahide laws.
Response #15:
Could you elaborate?
Thanks!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #16:
The Noahide Laws were officially recognized by the U.S. Congress in 1991 through
Public Law 102-14. This legislation designated March 26 as "Education Day,
U.S.A." and acknowledged the Seven Noahide Laws as essential ethical principles
for a civilized society.
Key Details of Public Law 102-14 Passed March 20, 1991
7 presidents in a row Confirmed the resolution
Response #16:
I'm not sure why anyone ought to get worked up about Congressional resolutions
of this sort. Congress passed this on a voice vote, meaning it wasn't important
enough to call the roll. These are ceremonial resolutions. Congress also passed
"National Ice Cream Day", "National Catfish Day", "National Tap Dance Day", and
a whole host of other such resolutions that also have no binding force
whatsoever.
Of course these "laws" don't exist in the Bible as they are formulated in this
particular formulation (especially the establishment of courts and systems of
justice part).
What was it you found "scary and concerning"?
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #17:
Could this grow legs in time for Antichrist to use ?
Response #17:
I suppose it's possible. But of course the main dictate of antichrist we already
know about, namely, prohibiting all who don't take his mark from buying and
selling (Rev.13). That would seem to me to violate all human codes and laws for
the sake of his religion in order to persecute believers – including these
"laws" you ask about.
Degrading respect for law generally certainly will be working in the beast's
behalf, both in his rise to power and in the implementation of his system of
persecution. But none of this will be coming as any surprise to our Lord who
made provision for us in eternity past. Whatever we need, He will provide. Our
part is to trust Him no matter what transpires.
You have not suffered any testing beyond normal human [experience]. And God is faithful. He will not allow you to be tested beyond your capacity, but, along with the test, He will grant you the way out, so that you can bear up under it.
1st Corinthians 10:13
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #18:
Hi Bob,
I'm a bit confused. Daniel 12 I had always understood speaks of the Tribulation.
Now I'm not so sure. Paul speaks of his time as the time of the end and I've
understood that to be all time since Christ rose. Daniel 12:4 speaks of an
increase in knowledge. (KJV - NIV paints a different picture. At least in
English.) The Tribulation has not yet started but knowledge has certainly
increased over the centuries. And now, with the infernal AI it seems to be
ballooning. Is that Satan's influence? How should I understand Daniel 12:4?
I pray all is well with you and yours. In our Lord,
Response #18:
(1) "At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. (2) Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. (3) Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. (4) But you, Daniel, roll up and seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end. Many will go here and there to increase knowledge."
Daniel 12:4 NIV
I take verse 4 to look forward all the way until that composite "end" and thus
to encompass the present age as well as the Tribulation, but Daniel chapter
twelve covers a lot of ground. It is eschatological but from Daniel's point of
view that's everything going forward from his time to the very end. Verse 1 is
definitely talking about the Tribulation. Going deeper into the chapter, so is
most of what follows in the angel's answer to Daniel's question in verse 6 until
he says in verse 13, "as for you", whereupon he speaks of Daniel's resurrection.
Verse 13 is speaking about the resurrection which for him will be at the end of
the Tribulation, but for the millennial saints the very end of human history;
verse 2 includes the last judgment which is definitely at the end of everything.
This combining of future events into one composite picture is typical of the
"foreshortening" one sees throughout Old Testament prophecy (see
the link).
I've been pushing my exercise time and effort up since the surgery. I finally
had the shingles shot and that set me back a bit (fatigue and achiness among
other things), but I'm gradually starting to tip the scale backwards if ever so
slightly, staying away from carbs and trying to reduce calories. I've gotten
lots done but once again all manner of circumstances are conspiring to slow down
the research push. I must get back to that too now that summer has begun.
Hope you are doing well out there, my friend!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #19:
Thanks, Bob, for the confirmation. That verse was the only thing I could think
of that foreshadowed the rise of AI. There may be others, but that was the only
one I could think of. BTW, I read headlines that claim the AI gurus are trying
to create an AI "God." That doesn't surprise me but the fact that government is
whole-heartedly behind the AI push is frightening.
I'm happy to hear your surgery is healing well. I was (and still am) concerned
about that.
In out Lord Jesus,
Response #19:
It will be interesting to see how things develop once "agentic AI" comes on the scene. This type is supposed to be able to plan, set goals and pursue them with some degree of independence. Here are links to a couple of articles that describe the foibles and follies of these "agents" so far:
1) Researchers left AI agents alone in a virtual town and watched it all unravel
2) Wikipedia's AI agent row likely just the beginning of the bot-ocalypse
Seems they are just a tad short of being "godlike" at present.
Praying for your health too, my friend!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #20:
Hi Bob,
If I'm to believe what I read (which is questionable) "agentic AI" is developing
as we type and even today, you can't tell what humans or AI created. At least I
can't. It will never be God-like since it's trained by humans. Many of which
also see themselves as demi-gods. I have come to your conclusion that what was
is and will increasingly be. AI is the only thing I can think of that has a
veneer of new and the people who create and train it are the same as always and,
To me, it qualifies as lying signs and wonders. I could be all wet. -- I have
been before:) AI seems like a perfect tool for the anti-christ. Certainly, it
will be for a lot of what masquerades as "clergy" today. Sorry to grumble at
you, but this, as you could probably tell, is one of my hot buttons.
Thanks for your prayers.
In our Lord,
Response #20:
No worries, my friend. You have a right to be concerned.
Re: "you can't tell what humans or AI created". That's frequently hard to
do, but if a person is well-versed in the English language and is intelligent
and possessed of some idea of history, there are usually "tells". In any case,
the main thing is for believers to have a good spiritual I.Q. from learning and
applying the truth in spiritual growth. For those who do, regardless of "who
created it", if it is a lie, that will be clear enough. Since lies are as old as
the evil one, there's "nothing new under the sun" here either in the final
analysis.
What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.
Ecclesiastes 1:9 NIV
Re: "signs and wonders". While I would agree that these technological developments are increasingly stunning, and while the pace of technical breakthroughs along with the societal changes they are engendering is also breathtaking, they are material and not supernatural. Antichrist and his false prophet, while no doubt profiting from all technological development, will also be performing "miracles" that actually DO have a supernatural origin (not just give that appearance), even though done in the physical realm. This is part of the removal of the Holy Spirit's restraint during the Tribulation along with the devil also holding nothing back regardless of consequences for his last offensive. These "miracles" will have a lot to do with unbelievers and many weak believers backing him . . . and turning away from the one true God.
"For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand."
Matthew 24:24-25 NKJV
The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
2nd Thessalonians 2:9-10 NKJV
He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men. And he deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived.
Revelation 13:13-14 NKJV
Keeping you in my daily prayers.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #21:
[omitted]
Response #21:
Re: "We'll keep on preparing whatever happens, Bob. Whenever the Lord decides it's time for kick off - being ready is what matters the most." Amen to that, my friend!
We're in a fight down here day by day regardless. If it gets more intensive, we'll deal with it, but it's not as if we're on holiday in the meantime in any case.
I appreciate your encouragement and your positive attitude very much indeed.
In Jesus,
Bob L.