Question #1:
Part of me really, REALLY flagged when I thought we may have to wait another
seven years before the Tribulation started. That was selfishness on my part in
that I want to be with the Lord and away from here as soon as possible!
However I am aiming for Paul's approach to these things. If I am to have seven
more years before THE seven years, now that I really have my ducks lined up for
ministry, there is serious potential for helping the brethren AND reaping
maximum rewards whilst also strengthening my own faith!
With faith, either way it's win/win. Earlier date may mean less reward but
sooner spending eternity with the Lord, later date means waiting longer for the
Lord but greater potential for rewards!
Response #1:
Thanks much for the update. All things considered, this is mostly very good
news. I've updated the prayer requests.
Re: "Paul's approach". Indeed:
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith.
Philippians 1:20-25 NIV
Re: "[having] to wait another seven years". I hear you. I won't say I'm disappointed, but I'm not jumping for joy. It's the wait indeed. For one thing, "I ain't gettin' any younger". But, you're right, we can all use more time to prepare – whether we have six months, a year, or seven years . . . or however long. We're always supposed to be on the alert (link). Patience and waiting is not easy, but that is what builds faith, when we are willing to endure it in a godly way (Jas.1:2-4). Also, the more ministry, the more reward. So you've got the right attitude! Let's make the most of the opportunity.
In anticipation of this ultimate deliverance, your joy overflows, though at present it may be your lot to suffer for a time through various trials to the end that your faith may be shown to be genuine. This validation of your faith is far more valuable than gold, for gold, though it too is assayed by fire, ultimately perishes. But your faith, when proven genuine in the crucible of life, will result in praise, glory and honor for you at the glorious return of Jesus Christ.
1st Peter 1:6-7
Keeping you in my daily prayers, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #2:
Hi Bob,
When's Thanksgiving? I remember you wrote that if you were sitting down
to eat turkey then you thought we had seven more years before the 'big
push'?
Trying to remember where we were last time we spoke.
[omitted]
I would say that I am doing alright considering what I have been
through!
God is good!
I have a lot more to tell you but will leave it until the next
email/missive/novella!
Please tell me all the news with you.
Your friend in Jesus,
Response #2:
That's right. You don't have "turkey day" over there. This year it's November
26th. That'll be a good day to thank the Lord for our reprieve . . . if we
receive one. And, yes, probably seven more years, but there are other variables
in the interpretation, so I think rather it will mean that while we are not "in
it", it is doubly "imminent" at any time thereafter (link).
We just no longer have a date or dates when it is more likely.
[omitted]
Big day tomorrow. Four classes and then I'm managing an important meeting about
our proposed new major. I'll be glad for the weekend!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #3:
I am rallying this morning, decided to get into a habit of rising
earlier and having a 'Bible before breakfast rule' so that I am set up
and prepared for the day.
I know that if a brother or sister feels they are falling back into the
water (even though the Lord has hold of us) and starts thrashing around
in panic and yourself (or other ministering brethren) are reassuring us
that the Lord has us and we can go back to walking on the water just as
we did before. I realise how frustrating it is to see that person keep
thrashing around for a very long time. Thankfully I am back walking on
the water again, taking it one day at a time and not panicking or
despairing as I have been. Cutting out all the things that dragged me
down and increasing all that encourages me. The simple truth is that you
can minister and minister all day long to that person thrashing about on
the water's surface but it is up to that person to trust the Lord that
He won't let them drown (and if they did it would be a choice to drown).
I know this of course. Today I have my spiritual sight back and already
feel lighter, unburdened and have my inner joy back (despite
affliction).
It helped me today to think not just of only taking it one day at a time
and not looking backwards (except at the cross as you always teach) but
to heed our Lord's command and to live as if each day was my last on
earth and so to make it count for Christ. It helps so much to think of
my walk like this as we don't know the day or hour of His return and it
would put us in good stead to act as though He was coming back tomorrow
(in a sense He is) and so as not to despair or become slack or tired of
service.
I don't want to end up as the 'unjust steward'
https://ichthys.com/MP3/unjust-steward.mp3
So I have to keep oil in my lamps
https://ichthys.com/MP3/ten-virgins.mp3
..and to keep my lamp burning.
It's better for me to only deal with today and act as though today is
all I have (as we are not promised tomorrow here). I have been a
Christian now for 9 years and had a great deal of tribulation and
testing in that time but the Lord has carried me through it all
effortlessly whenever I fully relied and trusted in Him.
Seven more years here really has daunted me to think of, especially
knowing just how dreadful people are going to be in particular but I am
learning (though this has been the hardest lesson to learn) not to care
what people think and only to care what the Lord thinks. I made the
mistake of thinking in terms of days, weeks and months that will make up
that seven years and I almost fainted to think how long that seemed and
I already feel so whittled down right now but instead I am just focusing
on today and living as though today is all I have and to use it wisely
and remember that if I keep focusing on today then tomorrow really will
be the Day of the Lord!
Amen!
Thanks for those prayers for us both! Keeping you and your ministry in
my daily prayers!
Your friend in Jesus,
Response #3:
Thank you for the encouraging email, my friend. I've never doubted that there is a lot of fight in you, even if sometimes you get a bit down with all the flak. Who doesn't?
But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved.
Hebrews 10:39 NIV
Re: "it is up to that person to trust the Lord". Amen!
“Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
Matthew 14:29-31 NIV
If such a great believer like Peter can thrash about from time to time,
is it any wonder that we sometimes find ourselves doing the same? The
main lesson is that he didn't sink and we won't either. And secondly
that instead of beating ourselves up about such things we need to have
the same sort of "bad memory" about past failures that Peter did and
continue to keep plugging forward as he did.
One day at a time indeed! It's the only day we're given, after all, and
we've been strictly told by our Lord NOT to worry about tomorrow
(Matt.6:34). None of us is perfect there either. But the more we focus
on the temporary nature of all that's down here and the permanence and
glory of all that's up there, the happier – and the better oriented to
the truth – we will be (link).
Seven years is a long time. Fourteen is obviously double if it works out
that way. But "This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice
and be glad in it" (Ps.118:24 ESV).
Keeping you in my daily prayers, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #4:
Hi Bob,
Just reflecting on a few things that have happened that seemed a bit puzzling
and worrying but then changed again when I put my trust in the Lord no matter
what my eyes were telling me.
My major failing is that I hadn't forgiven __. For over a week now the Holy
Spirit has led me to forgive and show mercy despite being so abused before. As I
know they are struggling with little help, the Holy Spirit has led me to show
mercy and kindness by offering to help them. I also though believe that this
breakthrough was in response to following the Holy Spirit's lead whilst knowing
the Word of God, about mercy and love for our enemies.
[omitted]
By accepting my help on a weekly basis, he really is accepting the Lord's help
in his life.
We don't always know what is going on and it sometimes seems as though things
are lurching from bad to worse even though we are regularly praying. Sometimes
bad things have to happen in the plan of God to turn many hearts towards Him and
for His will to be done.
Joseph had to go into captivity but because of this, many were saved from the
famine including Jacob and all his kin (even the ones who conspired against
Joseph in the first place!)
Many conspired evil against our Lord and yet all the time He was working towards
accomplishing THEIR salvation.
What Satan means for evil, God means for good.
So with joy I can say that even when things look extremely bleak indeed and it
looks as though we are moving from bad to even worse (the Israelites captivity
in Egypt moving to the Pharaoh deciding to annihilate them)...if we keep
trusting God right through all of it no matter how bad it all seems (and
especially when it seems as though the enemy really is winning) if we hold fast
and true in our faith DELIVERANCE DOES COME!!!
And how great and wonderful that deliverance is! How miraculous and joyful and
perfect that deliverance is!!
The Lord can do anything! Nothing is impossible for the Lord! We have to trust
Him and know that He loves us and that it is ALL FOR GOOD in the end!
We will wait on the Lord! We have joy in the Lord because He loves us and is
FAITHFUL and TRUE and will not forsake us but DELIVER us in His PERFECT TIMING!
Amen!
Please share this with your ministry as an encouragement to others!
Your friend in Jesus,
p.s. there are times when things look terrifying from the outside but there is
protection from the Lord within. The Lord can bring about huge dramatic events
that can bring fear to the wicked but those who are innocent of evil in those
events are protected. We will see this play out in earnest on a global scale
during the Tribulation. We don't always know what is happening in the God's
amazing plan! If we always trust Him no matter what, we will always prevail,
overcome and see good!
Response #4:
Forgiveness is indeed very important (Matt.6:15; Mk.11:25).
Re: "when I put my trust in the Lord no matter what my eyes were telling me".
That is an essential point of view we believers have to hold fast to down here.
What we see and hear and feel can be deceptive. We have to rely instead on what
we know for certain in our hearts is the truth. The Spirit helps us there, if we
are willing to listen to Him instead of "going off" whenever we experience
something unpleasant.
I think it's wonderful that you are seeing things more and more clearly from
God's point of view. That is a challenge for us all but so very important. Our
God is perfect and His plan is perfect. He is "working everything out for the
good for those who love Him" (Rom.8:28), and He has never failed to be
absolutely faithful to us all in each and every situation. We, however, often
fail to give Him the benefit of the doubt, to wait on Him for deliverance
instead of swiftly setting to try to do something ourselves. That is one of the
reasons we are given "impossible" situations, so that the issue might be made
very clear. If only God can do it, then we have no choice other than to trust
Him or not.
Re: "The Lord can bring about huge dramatic events that can bring fear to the
wicked but those who are innocent of evil in those events are protected. We will
see this play out in earnest on a global scale during the Tribulation." Yes,
and all the more reason to work on developing the proper, godly perspective now,
because for those who are not in the habit of putting things in the Lord's
hands, the Tribulation will be doubly difficult.
Thanks for your willingness to share this, my friend.
Keeping you in my daily prayers.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #5:
Hi Bob,
Thank you for the Colossians presentation (link).
It's giving me new light to better understand the Plan of God, and to focus on
how God has/is working all things out for good, despite all of the distractions
coming from all of the falseness (from various evil sources) that is swirling
all around us today. Things are getting darker (physically and spiritually)
every day here on planet Earth...especially because we are now sitting or
standing at the very end of the Age. Looking forward to seeing the Light, Who
will be coming afterwards. What a Day that will be! (Titus 2:13; Heb. 10:25;
Isaiah 60:1).
Normally I would be already done reading your study, but I got hit with a new
unwanted "problem", making it a struggle to move at my normal speed. A couple of
weeks ago I developed an eye condition called metamorphopsia, coupled with my
severe keratoconus and cataracts, which is making it very difficult to see
anything. It's very blurry even writing this. I have an appointment with the eye
surgeon Dr. next week to figure out a path forward...pretty much just in a
holding pattern for now. At least my spiritual vision acuity is getting some
better, though not quite 20/20. Please pray for me.
I hope you are doing well on all fronts after going through all of what's on
your "problem list". Keeping you in prayer on this end. All the best, Bob!
Your friend in Jesus,
p.s. will give you an update on this and some other odd issues that are
happening here...never a dull moment?!.
Response #5:
Very sorry to hear about your eye troubles, my friend. I am and will be keeping
these issues in my prayers. FYI, there are MP3
audio files for most things now (thanks to the great work of Chris B., at
the link).
Re: "What a Day that will be!" Amen to that! As I often say, that will be
one of the good things about the Tribulation, namely, the fact that we'll
finally be counting down to our Lord's return. It wouldn't chap me a bit to
"miss the show" since being with Him is "better by far" (Phil.1:23), but on the
other hand hanging in there is "more needful for you", and this is true for us
all regarding all of our "you" fellow believers in Christ. God has a very
specific plan for each of us and a good part of that is the ministry we are
accomplishing for our brothers and sisters. We may not always see our role
clearly but we are "lights shining in this [dark] world" (Phil.2:15) and the
Lord is the One who is carrying out the effect of our witness and work.
I'm doing OK. I lost a few steps from the colectomy and haven't gotten them all
back yet, but it could be a lot worse. I got drafted into being vice chair for
next fall and the work load is way more than I need at the moment (didn't even
get off of personnel in the bargain). But our chair is a good guy and he needed
the favor so I obliged.
How's __ doing? Keeping you both and your family in my daily prayers, my friend.
In Jesus,
Question #6:
Hi Bob,
A lot is going on, but we certainly don't see the final outcome yet about the
stuff going on down here. Even so, things are looking up as we continue doing
what we are supposed to be doing for our Lord. Why look at the stuff that won't
matter anyhow? "And when you see these things begin to come to pass, then look
up, and lift up your heads, for your redemption [deliverance and Resurrection]
draweth nigh". (Luke 21:28; cf. Heb. 10:25; cf. Titus 2;13). In the end He will
work it all out in our favor, if we just hang tough, enduring in Faith in all of
our "battles" until the end. (Rom. 8:28; Matt. 24:13; Col. 1:23; Matt.
24:29-31).
Where does our help come from? (Psalm 121:1-8). He said, "without Me you can do
nothing". So He made a way for us to "choose Life"... His Plan for us from
eternity past. (Deut. 30:19; Joshua 24:15; John 11:25-26).
I must say it took me a while to make that right call concerning Life. When I
was young I stayed out in that "far country" for many wasted years. But today,
(over 40 years later) I'm happy to say that I am eternally grateful to be chosen
by Him for accepting His gracious "open invitation" to choose Life, "just in
time", before it would have been eternally too late. I mentioned to you about
those several scrapes with "seconds from death" experiences that I went through
in the past. But, God knew all along that I would come back to Him, and He
graciously kept me alive long enough to make the "right choice"! (John 3:16-18;
Eph. 2:8-9). It's good to know that it's not how you start out in Life that
matters, it's how you finish that will count. So, I am "forgetting those things
that are behind" and staying in the "fight of Faith", today, just like we all
need to do.. (Phil. 3:13-14; 1 Tim. 6:12). All's well that ends well!
In whatever time I have left, I hope that I can bring forth some good fruit and
receive some reward from Him, when all is said and done. Time is running out
down here, but that is a good thing for all believers "in Him", who are staying
committed to the Truth. Only the Truth believed, and put into practice, will do
anyone any good. I will always trust that He knows what's best. and that He will
help us, one day at a time. God is good!
Since my last email to you things are still unsettled and uncertain concerning
the eye problem, and in several other "family issues", which are seemingly never
ending. Fortunately, __ is doing well and helping me move forward in this
stressful eye problem situation. She's my eyes and caregiver at the moment and
has been for all of our lives together. As you once mentioned to me, God worked
it out and He gave me a second chance and blessed me with a great godly wife,
after much suffering and abuse that I endured in the past. God is good!
I'm trusting that God is making a way in my current battle also. And thanks to
you for reminding me about the audio files of your studies. So far I can still
read and type on the computer (zoom @ 150%), but not as quickly as when things
looked better (no fuzzy blur, distorted faces, and wavy lines). I am grateful
for all of the prayers and support, and trusting that God will help me get
through all of this "light affliction" of physical vision problems, compared to
what lies ahead, where all believers will have 20/20 vision both physically and
spiritually forever! (2 Cor. 4:17-18). We all have our crosses to bear for now.
[omitted] So far I'm doing OK.... Thanks for your prayers! I'm praying and
hoping for the best. It's a process that may take awhile and will involve
continuing scheduled injections..... C'est la vie....We all have our setbacks,
but have to do what we can do, with God helping us along the way, "guiding us
with His eyes". (Psalm 32:8).
How are you doing? Getting ready for another round at the university with your
added chair responsibility? I hope it all goes well. We certainly are looking
forward to more on the Colossians study. We need all of the ammo we can garner
before the war breaks out....whenever that will happen..... counting down to the
start.(Matt. 24:21-33). Looking forward to the other side of all of this
trouble. (Rev. 22:20). Finishing the race is all that matters now. (2 Tim. 4:7).
Signing off for now. All the best, Bob! Keeping you in prayer....and thanks for
yours.
Your friend in Jesus,
Response #6:
Your good attitude and godly perspective in the face of suffering is a real
witness and encouragement, my friend! Health concerns really have the potential
of knocking us for a loop, spiritually speaking – just ask Job. And I can't
personally imagine much worse than eye trouble. At present, I've got many others
on my list with serious eye trouble. And all of you are handling it better than
I ever would.
Classes start up next week but this week is already frightfully busy. Trying to
get everything done for meetings this week and soon after classes start. The
teaching of five classes part looks to be the easiest part! I did finish up a
second article and am about to shove that out the door. I'll so be looking
forward to next May! I know that the Lord will get me through.
I'm happy to hear that __ is doing well. I keep you both and your health in my
daily prayers.
Colossians is moving, if slowly. I'm about half way through chapter two. Hope to
have it done in six weeks or so. Meanwhile, the eschatology push will continue
in the emails, because, well, they are timely . . . or won't be as much so after
about the middle of October or early November at the latest.
Thanks for your great testimony, my friend! And thanks for your prayers too. Please
give my best to __.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #7:
Hi there Dr. Luginbill!
Hope all is well on your end, just wanted to first thank you for following the
path that you did with all this...your studies began ending my self-induced
torment about 20 years ago.
I have always been the "but why" member of the Church, and could never get an
explanation of a single thing that made sense to me - of very basic things that
did not seem to line up, such as (as I thought then): [omitted]...and much more,
haha!
My faith in Jesus as Savior was never a question; I've never felt alone in my
life, He's always been there, it's not something I could explain if I tried. But
putting words to doctrine was impossible; I couldn't even recite the basics that
I did know, because their first question was also mine!
When I came across your studies (specifically
SR and
CT) when my kids were small and I
was in complete misery over my lack of understanding, I was immediately
enthralled as answer after answer was revealed to me, and I began to see and
understand the "Big Picture", or literally, the proverbial and (formerly)
elusive "Meaning of Life"! I emailed you a couple of times and you were always
so patient and kind with my "weak failings" and I laugh now at some of the
things I brought to you. Anyway, I took in so much "meat" over a year or so that
I couldn't go back to it for around 15 years! I just "pondered these things in
[my] heart", raising my kids, thought of these things every day knowing 2026 was
looming, wanted to create a timeline to straighten things out in my head because
of how visually I learn... but I also have an extreme executive dysfunction that
kept pushing that project to the back burner.
Fast forward to about 18 months ago, when, as an empty-nester I dove back in,
motivated and determined to put things into a visual form, and I did! I have a
"crazy lady wall" as my family affectionately refers to it, covered in posters,
with the 7 days/ 7 millennial days at the top, expanding days 5 & 6 into the 7
letters, expanding the end of Laodicea into the tribulation, which turns into
the millennial Kingdom, which turns into the New Jerusalem...it's truly nuts,
haha! And I love it. I have printed out the entire SR and CT and BB studies and
this has made a world of difference in my retention, being able to highlight and
make notes. So thankful for the person who did that for you!
But doing so has helped solidify things in my mind and I've actually been
"teaching" acquaintances from it, (also our little Bible study we conduct weekly
in our home for a few who have to work Sundays - we ourselves are largely "unchurched")
and I refer them to your website every time, but I think they prefer to be spoon
fed (rolling eyes). I've found not a single person as interested as I am, to
talk to about all this. Mild interest or polite listening is all I see (hello,
Laodicea!), and it astounds me that no one seems to have the same problems I
have had with not understanding "the whys".
I've been so focused on and interested in this material (specifically what is
about to transpire) that one could call it an obsession, and I wouldn't argue.
If I should still be alive at the call to flee Babylon, I'm certain in my heart
that I can be "like the he-goat at the head of the flock" and help herd everyone
out of here, wherever we are being held at that point. Also, I hope to use the
knowledge of the progression of events to witness to all those around me who
currently think I'm nuts, and don't want to talk about it. I try to give enough
(of what will be) tangible evidence (such as the first quake) so that they will
at least be open at that time to hear about what is actually going on, hopefully
before hearts are hardened, as I will be the only one in my circle who will
"have insight" and will "instruct many". I just feel it in my bones; those
verses (he-goat and insight) come to my mind every day. No one wants it now, but
they will, and I'm preparing for that, being the most dedicated student I can
be, so I can rattle off truths even if the need for answers comes like a
flood...and if not, then I'll know what's happening and that's a gift enough for
me. I'm ready to allow my death to bring glory to God!
Anyway, just wanted to say that "I thank my God every time I remember you" and
hopefully encourage you with the knowledge that your hard work has relieved at
least one fellow sister (though from emails I know it's many, many more!) and
enabled me to have the knowledge to back up the faith I've had all my life, as
Ichthys is my church, so thank you, thank you!
Now to it: "the oracle concerning Arabia" (Is 21:13) has made me wonder, does
"oracle" mean that the "eagle's wings-help" that these Arabs will be giving the
fugitives at the start of the Great Trib will simply be happening (compelled by
God, of course), rather than that they knew and understood a prophecy that they
must obey (because they wouldn't know said prophecy)? Is there even a difference
between an oracle and a prophecy or are they the same thing?
Secondly, in the Gospels, regarding the flight of the faithful, the "woe"
directed at pregnant women and nursing mothers (not invalids, elderly,
bedridden, sick, imprisoned, quadriplegics, crippled, those on oxygen, or a
myriad of other conditions that would make flight nearly impossible - that is,
if they weren't healed by the witnesses) uses two descriptors for essentially
the same thing, so I'm wondering if there's a reason for this...possibly some
sort of genocidal act on babies & fetuses, or somehow these babies will be
forced to be left behind? Or is it simply a way to convey all hardships that
will be true for these fugitives? The specificity is intriguing.
Thank you in advance, this was a lengthy one! Future queries will be more
succinct.
Can't wait for That Day!
In Christ,
Response #7:
Long time indeed! Your testimony has really been an encouragement to me, my
friend, and I very much appreciate you sharing it. Your description of other
believers who are "ho hum" about serious Bible study rings very true, and I know
it will resonate with most serious readers of this ministry.
Yes indeed! Whether things come to a head this fall or whether we have a long
wait ahead, I fully expect the Lord to put to good use dedicated folks like
yourself who have taken the trouble to get spiritually prepared. Once the
Tribulation begins, so many Laodicean believers are going to need a massive
infusion of the truth, and there probably won't be sufficient time and
opportunity to do it "the hard way" as you have been doing. They will need some
good souls willing and able to "spoon feed" it to them.
To answer your first question, the word in Isaiah 21:13, sometimes translated
"oracle", is, a bit more literally, "burden" (cf. KJV, NKJV, etc.). It comes
from the Hebrew verb meaning "to lift up", so, etymologically, "a thing lifted
up". Since antiquity, there have been different theories about this word, but I
think Walter Kaiser's take (in the
T.W.O.T.) is the best: this word used of prophecies from the Lord is almost
always corrective; that is to say, it's used for rebukes and divine utterances
requiring correction or describing situations that result from behavior that
needs correcting. In short, I think you are correct to say that it has to do
with compulsion. After all, in a similar situation, when the Israelites left
Egypt, the Lord compelled the Egyptians to enrich their Jewish neighbors so that
without human compulsion the Israelites "plundered" them (Ex.3:22). Just as the
Egyptians of that time didn't understand the prophecy, I'm sure that will also
be true in the case of these individuals who are moved to aid the flight of the
believing remnant from Israel at the Tribulation's mid-point.
Regarding Matthew 24:19, "woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are
nursing in those days" (cf. Mk.13:18; Lk.21:22), as with "pray that your flight
may not take place during a storm or on a Sabbath" in the next verse
(Matt.24:20; Mk.13:18), these statements of our Lord are meant first and
foremost to stress the difficulty of that coming situation and the need for
unhesitating speed as a result (as with, "Let no one on the housetop go down to
take anything out of the house" and "Let no one in the field go back to get
their cloak" in the preceding verses). They don't mean that the Lord will not
provide for pregnant woman or nursing mothers, merely that these impediments
will make things doubly hard. All the more reason not to vacillate when the time
comes. This double description is paralleled by what our Lord says at Luke
23:28-31, and is a common dualism in the Old Testament in contexts of judgment
(e.g., Isaiah 13:16-18; Hos.9:14). So I think you are right that what we have
here is "simply a way to convey all hardships that will be true for these
fugitives".
Thanks again for your email, my friend! Good to be back in touch.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #8:
Good evening Bob,
__ has informed me more than once about you saying "best regards". Thank you
very much Bob and same to you! I'm walking up the Kings highway! This life is
not easy! Even more so to what you see and hear in the daily news. Definitely
end time prophecy being fulfilled. I've heard this end time prophecy since I was
five years old. They even predicted 2033 in the fall. When I was about 10 years
old I did the math and thought WOW, that's a lot of years from now. I decided I
would probably be dead by then, and I wouldn't have to be scared of the
tribulation. Well as I got older and older and did the math again, I thought oh
my GOSH! I could very well be here during the tribulation. Well, NO FEAR!
TRUTHFULLY! With the FATHER, SON & HOLY SPIRIT there is NO FEAR! The three
Hebrews were protected in the fiery furnace, among many other recorded events in
the bible. I read the "Foxes Book of Martyrs" God's people will be able to bear
whatever comes our way. We will be tried, and tested. It's to show us where we
are spiritually. If believers are spiritually weak and have little faith then
they need to pray to the Trinity to help BUILD their FAITH!! Ask and ye shall
receive! Amen! I pray you have a great rest of your day,
Response #8:
Great to hear from you!
It's very clear from your email – not to mention __'s correspondence – that you
are an exceptional Christian woman. He is very blessed to have you!
Thanks so much for this inspiring testimony! Would you mind an anonymous
posting? I'm sure it would help remind others that while things can be very
difficult in this world – and will soon get more so – a believer can still have
a positive outlook and expression of faith that lifts others up as well as
encouraging themselves.
A pleasure to meet you (so to speak)!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #9:
Yes Bob you may post my email. I hope and pray that all believers and unbelievers in this whole entire world can feel God the way I have felt God since I was 5 years old. I listened to the Sunday school teacher when I was 5 years old and I immediately felt 100% love for God. I was in awe of him! I found out when I turned 16 years old what being tried and tested was all about. I had no one to turn to including my family. My family were the ones that caused the horrific shocks one after the other that I went through. But through all that is the one thing that NO ONE will ever take away from me is the LOVE I have for the Godhead EVER!! NOTHING will separate me from the Love of God!! Well it's been nice conversing with you again Bob. I pray you have a blessed evening.
Response #9:
Thank you!
(38) For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, neither angelic nor human authorities, neither things present nor things to come, neither heavenly powers, (39) be they the highest [of the elect] or the lowest [of the fallen], nor any other created thing [on this earth] will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #10:
Hi Dr Bob,
Trust you are well! I am thinking of visiting a church fellowship but I am a
little concerned about the Pastor of this Church regarding the following article
and video clip:
https://www.christian.org.uk/news/church-expelled-from-local-schools-for-upholding-biblical-sexual-ethics/
I think I know my own opinion but would truly appreciate yours too. Just so you
know, the State schools in UK have to allow diversity and respect people’s
individual religious and sexual identities. The UK law would allow this pastor
to teach biblical marriage values within the church but not to bring it out into
the wider community state schools ( unless it’s a faith based school). In other
words all pupils could have different marriage values ( depending on their
families) and would be taught by school to respect each others differences. Hope
makes sense after you’ve read .
1 Corinthians 15:12-13 springs to my mind but struggling what the Pastor is
trying to achieve here so your insight, as always , would be appreciated.
God Bless
Response #10:
Good to hear from you.
The link only gave me the headline / synopsis.
Re: "the UK law would allow this pastor to teach biblical marriage values
within the church but not to bring it out into the wider community state schools".
Why is a church teaching anything in any secular school anyway?
To my mind, this is what happens when churches are not doing their jobs, namely,
to support the spiritual growth, progress and production of those who attend.
When they tire of doing what they should, they always go off on wrong tangents.
Crusading to fix the culture is politics by another name. Regardless of how a
person feels about politics and political action, it's very clear to me that
this is not what Christ wants from His actual Church. The church-visible is
something else – and more and more so day by day.
How is you health doing?
Keeping you in my prayers.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #11:
Yes health ok thanks- pray yours is too.
Thanks for the reply. Yes, I agree - I don’t suppose the early Church went
around preaching against the Romans sin? They just focused on preaching the
gospel and living out their faith. I know I didn’t appreciate being called out
for sin by Christians before I believed and I was an unbeliever for 33 years!
Thanks for your prayers
Response #11:
That's a very good perspective and parallel. Paul was persecuted by the Roman
authorities over and over again. But he tells us to respect them and never even
hints at calling the state to task (Rom.13:1-7).
Thanks for your prayers too, my friend!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #12:
Two surgeries and a car accident...a lot certainly has happened! At
least it wasn't a bus. I'll pray for maybe a little less excitement in
your life. But I'm happy you're still with us and chugging along in
spite of it all. You're very tough!
My work pays the bills, but it's terribly boring. And I'm convinced
there aren't many things more evil than the banks. I wish I was smart
enough to be a university professor, your work sounds much more
fulfilling. I'll pray they don't work you to death though!
I'm ready for the end times! I guess I should be careful what I wish
for, but I want Christ to return. I've been enjoying the weekly focus on
eschatology, and I'm relistening to the audiofiles for the tribulation
series.
As for my dogs, my most recent foster dog adopted me, so now I have two
dogs. And my parents loved my dog so much that they got one too -- in
addition to the ancient labrador they already had. So when we're all
together (which is often) we have four dogs. It's a ton of fun, but
kinda chaotic at times, especially when they all decide to jump in the
mud. But I love all four of them dearly and wouldn't have it any other
way.
My dad said he'd disown me if I got another dog lol. And I agree, we're
kinda at capacity with dogs. As fun as they are, another one would take
the last of my sanity. So I haven't fostered anymore, but I do miss it.
Here's a picture of all four of them together -- being good for once.
In Him,
Response #12:
Re: "At least it wasn't a bus." LOL, that's right! You wouldn't be
getting this email if it was. I'm still a little groggy over two weeks out and
have a stiff neck, but I'm still on this side of the grass, as they say.
Re: "I want Christ to return." Amen! That's the silver lining in a
"Tribulation now" scenario, ONLY seven more years to wait. But we'll be happy
for a respite if it turns out that way.
Cute doggies! Pets are great, but they are a lot of work. I barely have time to
think as it is.
Keeping you and yours in my prayers.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #13:
Dr. Luginbill,
Thank you for taking the time to clarify that "flee
Babylon" question. Your explanation makes sense and helps us see
that the Lord will provide for our escape in His own way, whether
through natural means or His supernatural provision. And thank you for
the additional Scriptures; they are encouraging. We are enjoying the
study very much. I can't imagine the work it took to develop it.
I also noted in the section titled "Gog of Magog:" where you provide 12
points that distinguishes the Ezekiel 38-39 battle from the Gog and
Magog rebellion of Revelation 20, in point #12 you refer to Ezekiel
39:36, but Ezekiel 39 ends at verse 29. I wonder if the intended passage
is Ezekiel 39:25-29, which describes Israel’s restoration and God
pouring out His Spirit upon her?
In Jesus,
Response #13:
My pleasure!
And, yes, you're exactly right about the verse and the replacement. I've
corrected this and updated the files. This kind is a little hard to
catch because it still shows up "blue" in reftagger and it's only if you
notice it's wrong when you highlight it (or else are checking with a
print Bible) that you might catch it. So thank you!
Re: "I can't imagine the work it took to develop it." Everything
at Ichthys – everything good – has been the result of the Spirit's
working.
Not to us, LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.
Psalm 115:1 NIV
Thanks for your prayers and support, my friend! Keeping you and yours in
mine daily.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #14:
Hi Bob,
In Matthew 24:5 Jesus says many will come saying "I am Christ." In English that
could mean many will come claiming to be Christ or many will claim that Jesus is
Christ but lead people astray; which sounds like our contemporary churches. What
does the original say? Which understanding is correct?
I pray all is well up there in L'ville and you are healing from your surgery and
accident.
In our Lord,
Response #14:
Always good to hear from you, my friend!
As to Matthew 24:5 . . .
For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many.
Matthew 24:5 NIV
For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray.
Matthew 24:5 ESV
In the Greek we have the emphatic "I AM" / ego eimi preceding "Christ",
so this is definitely a personal claim by these individuals that they are Jesus
Christ. Antichrist will apparently not be the only one to make this claim.
Before he "reveals" himself to "be Christ", others will be doing this. One would
think that such activity would inoculate the world against that same lie told by
the son of the inventor of lies, but it seems it will only make unbelievers all
the more ready to accept the beast at his word.
We're probably going to be able to go car shopping this week as the insurance
company has finally got around to straightening things out. I'm still a little
groggy over two weeks out and have a stiff neck, so I could use some prayer on
that.
Keeping you in my prayers as well, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #15:
Bob, thank you. You've cleared up a long running question. This week's posting
brought that to mind. That was an interesting posting, BTW, and caused me to
wonder how much of Revelation was literal or John's interpretation based on his
experience not including modern military. Revelation 9, the fifth angel's woes
reads almost as an ancient interpretation of a modern military assault.
I'm sorry to hear your recovery is going slowly. Your healing from surgery has
been in my prayers since I knew and the accident was added when I learned of it.
It will remain in my prayers until I learn otherwise. Has the accident
interfered with your healing from the surgery?
Good luck on your car hunt. From what I understand, insurance is a little
strained today. I'm glad it's worked out well for you.
You and yours remain in my daily prayers. I also pray your added school duties
are not interfering with your healing from surgery. Sitting for any length of
time must be a challenge.
In our Lord Jesus,
Response #15:
I'm feeling better today in spite of teaching four classes in a row – so those
prayers are helping! Thank you!
Re: "how much of Revelation was literal or John's interpretation based on his
experience not including modern military". The method of proper
interpretation of Revelation is actually an easy thing to explain, although even
so much misunderstood. Suffice it to say that virtually all of the published
interpretations of that critical book, whether full length treatment or
confining themselves to sections, are wrong about it. So maybe not so simple
after all.
Revelation means exactly what it says (in the original Greek) with only two
exceptions (which are not really exceptions). The first is that when John says
that "a sign" appeared (e.g., Rev.12:1; 12:3; 15:1) or when someone / something
is clearly meant to be symbolic (like the beast for antichrist, the great
prostitute for mystery Babylon, the dragon for Satan) then that is how we are to
take it; but if there is no such mention of signs or clearly symbolic imagery,
then we are to take it literally. False interpretations of the book want to take
things meant literally (as is the case with 90+% of Revelation) as merely
allegories or the like.
The second possible interpretive allowance we have to make is, as you suggest,
for the differences in technology and therefore in the expression of general
descriptions in Revelation versus how things are likely to look today (or
whenever the Tribulation begins). There aren't many examples of the latter. One
possible example is in the description of Armageddon's aftermath. When the angel
of Revelation 19:17ff. summons the birds "that you may eat the flesh of kings,
the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and of those
who sit on them, and the flesh of all people, free and slave, both small and
great", instead of horses it seems likely that there will be mechanical
conveyances and instead of legions of slaves in the 1st century sense we will
have those otherwise subordinated. These are small adjustments, and I can't say
ahead of time dogmatically that they won't be literally true as well (if the
technological and social levels of the late Tribulation have retrogressed to a
1st century state; I don't that's likely but it's not impossible).
Keeping you in my prayers daily as well, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #16:
Bob, thank you! That clears up a lot. Though, that makes the Tribulation even
more frightening.
My sympathies and prayers are with you on what it must have been like to get
through those four classes and what you're going through. I hope you've had
progress with finding an assistant because I don't see how you can keep this up.
And, chairing committees as well. I hope your family is handling it reasonably.
And thank you for your prayers.
In our Lord Jesus,
Response #16:
I have some prospects for next year, but the possibility is gone until next
fall.
Re: "even more frightening". Really, we believers have nothing to worry
about. For one thing, we're not crazy about being "down here" in the first
place. So if the Lord wants to take us home, that's not a problem for us
(2Cor.5:8; Phil.1:23).
For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1st Thessalonians 5:9 NKJV
It's the unbelievers who need to be concerned about God's wrath. All of the
judgments mentioned (Trumpets, Bowls, Thunders) are directed at them for our
benefit. It is true that the Tribulation will be a time of "great distress,
unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled
again" (Matt.24:21 NIV). But God provides for His own. So it will also be a time
of great opportunities to trust Him and to see that faith vindicated in
marvelous and miraculous ways. Mind you, I wouldn't mind skipping it. That's a
natural reaction . . . and explains why "the rapture" is such a popular false
doctrine. But we are here for Jesus Christ, and we are willing to do and to go
through whatever He has for us. In that there is great reward on the other side.
Things are very busy. Wall to wall meetings and working on classes. It's funny
that I'm looking forward to tomorrow when I "only" have to teach four classes
(although there are some other things I should get to as well).
Looking forward to Christmas break . . . a long way off as it's supposed to hit
100 degrees here tomorrow.
Keeping you in my prayers and thanks much for yours, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #17:
Hi Bob,
Sorry about your assistant. Take care of yourself through the coming year.
While, I believe the Tribulation is for the non-believers, I doubt we'll escape
the pain. Particularly when we can't buy or sell without the mark. I feel that
noose is tightening now with RealID. I trust the Lord will provide though; it's
amazing how He's provided for me so far but it will still be painful. The
Israelites on their way out of Egypt provides a good lesson for us. In fact, at
times I wonder if scripture wasn't written for us today. I'm ready to go home,
but apparently there's more for me to do. I've already outlived the men in my
family except one and don't understand why I'm still here. But He knows best.
Uugh! I hated meetings. They were generally an enormous waste of time. I'm sure
they made someone feel good though. Still, they need to see your face and
occasional nodding. I hope your surgery and accident are healing well and all
the sitting and standing is tolerable. That remains in my prayers. Thank you for
yours. We'll all need that in the coming days.
A cold front passed through here recently and dropped daytime highs down to 98.
Maybe the storm due to hit Texas will drop the temperature another degree or
two. It's been an unusual year.
In our Lord Jesus,
Response #17:
Yes indeed. I certainly don't imagine that it's going to be any "fun".
Regardless of buying and selling, you'll still have honey, right? In any case,
we don't have to worry about how we're going to get by and get through. Many of
us will be martyred and won't have to worry about any of that at all as a
result. For those of us who do face those restrictions, it's not as if God
didn't know about it exactly ahead of time or that He can't do anything at any
time.
Re: "at times I wonder if scripture wasn't written for us today". Indeed
it was!
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
Romans 15:4 NIV
And in terms of the exodus, it is deliberately a paradigm of the Tribulation,
with Pharaoh in the role of antichrist (here's a link on that:
The Analogy of the Exodus in CT 7).
And yes, the experience of the Israelites in the desert is something we have to
be very mindful of (cf. 1Cor.10:1ff.; Heb.3:7ff). Instead of trusting God to
provide, they tested Him "ten times" (Num.14:22), when they should have been
passing the tests He was giving them. They never starved to death or died of
thirst or privation. They should have trusted Him when, for a very short time,
they didn't have what they needed. It will doubtless be the same for us, if it
be our lot to face that particular time of testing. Some believers will be
martyred for their faith – and be guaranteed a good reward as a result (not to
mention being delivered out of the worst part of the Tribulation), but there is
no indication from scripture that any of us will starve to death or die on
account of being deprived of the necessities of life through antichrist's
vindictive economic rules. If we but trust the Lord, He will bring us safe
through to the other side of our impassable sea, just like He brought the
Israelites through theirs.
"Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. The horse and its rider he has hurled into the sea."
Exodus 15:21b NIV
In that day they will say, "Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the Lord, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation."
Isaiah 25:9 NIV
Thanks for those prayers! Classes went well today and I'm about 90+% over all of
the effects of the crash. Keeping you in mine too, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #18:
Thank you Bob for your encouraging comments and links. While I've read the links
in your CT7 description many, many times, I never connected the dots. Thank you.
With your guidance and the Holy Spirit, my understanding is skyrocketing.
Fortunately, I doubt I'll live long enough to be in the call to flee Babylon. My
old bod couldn't make it even now without God providing strength.
Life out there is getting ugly with mother's killing their kids and kids killing
their parents, politics have become vulgar schoolyard chest bumping contests
with real guns, the Moorish invasion 2.0 and on and on. I will be happy to be
done with it all.
I'm happy your automotive adventure is healing well and not interfering with
your classes. I don't know how you managed it all. Thank you for your prayers.
You remain in mine as well.
No honey from my bees until next year. My one hive is too weak. Hopefully, if
they survive the winter, I'll have some next year. And, God willing, add a
second colony. Pesticides killed the first ones and I had given up, but God
brought my current colony just when I was ready to burn the hives. Even with
bees, it's a much different world than times past.
In our Lord Jesus,
Response #18:
It's my pleasure, my friend, and thanks much for the positive comments.
If we get a seven year reprieve, I may be spared the whole evolution as well.
Re: "Even with bees, it's a much different world than times past." How
true! But then, things are always changing and yet in many ways remaining the
same. In terms of human depravity, there really is "nothing new under the sun"
(Eccl.1:9). If we've personally been spared from the worst of it, that is a
blessing from the Lord.
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;
Philippians 1:21-23 NIV
Looking forward to that great day!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
[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.]