What Was Christ Jesus!?

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ, has warned us – “’ Take heed that no one deceives you. 5) For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I AM the Christ,’ and will deceive many’” – Matthew 24:4-5. WARNING that many will correctly say that He is the Christ – yet will deceive many!

The apostle Paul in approximately AD 49, in his epistle to the brethren there in Galatia, writes – “I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, 7) which is NOT ANOTHER; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ” – Galatians 1:6-7.

So, not only were some even then turning to “a different gospel, which is NOT ANOTHER,” but they were also turning to a different Christ. To a Christ that did not die. Recall, God’s living words say, “For IF we believe that Jesus died …” which certainly means that there are millions of our peoples who believe that HE DID NOT DIE! MILLIONS of sincere believers are deceived by a global deception!

A Global Doctrine of the Anti-christ

There was growing during the mid-1st century AD a doctrine of the Anti-christ – that our Lord Jesus Christ was not actually a human and that He did not inherit human nature from Adam. And that He did not have all the normal human passions, emotions, and weaknesses of which we all have to struggle with – that our Lord and Savior did not truly “become flesh.” This false doctrine is called the Anti-christ doctrine.

I have spoken of this false doctrine before, as I stated in “Prophecy – According to Jesus Christ” - Most of this world does not believe that Jesus died. Many – including a friend of mine who was a minister of the Assemblies of God – sadly, believe that upon giving up “the ghost,” He went down into the “pit” – into prison – to preach to spirits, and that He had an immortal “soul,” of which He could not die. But, friends, in His own words, Jesus said, “’ I AM He who lives, and was dead.’” I believe Jesus’ own words when He said that! So many have this misunderstanding about the immortality of the soul.

Be sure to read Personal From… Most Horrendous Lie Perpetrated Upon Mankind for more information on the false concept of the immortality of the soul.

Let us be warned TODAY – “every spirit that DOES NOT CONFESS that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh IS NOT OF GOD. And this is the spirit of the Anti-christ, which you have heard WAS COMING, and is now already in the world” – 1 John 4:3. The year was approximately AD 85-95.

MILLIONS UPON MILLIONS this day are being taught, in one form or another, this grave deception manufactured by Satan the Devil! One of the more off-the-wall teachings – is that Jesus had a “special kind of blood.” Then there is a teaching that Jesus DID NOT inherit His mother’s human nature. Of course, this erroneous teaching blatantly denies many Scriptures showing us that our Lord and Savior came as the Son of Man! Sadly, even TODAY – in this 21st-century world – multiple millions of our peoples are being deceived by this doctrine.

Was Christ Jesus human, or was He Divine!? Or was He both!? It’s IMPORTANT to know the TRUTH OF GOD on this vital subject. Your very life depends upon it!

A Doctrine of Satan

In the spring of 2018, while I was studying God’s living word in relation to the resurrections, I came across the conversation that our Lord Jesus had with Jarius, the synagogue ruler, regarding his daughter. I came to our Lord Jesus’ words, “’ Stop wailing,’ Jesus said, ‘she is not dead but asleep.’” A soft whispering voice in my mind spoke to me which said, “You must believe Me!”

This too must be applied to the fact that our Lord Jesus Christ actually DIED and ROSE – was resurrected. WE MUST BELIEVE !

One of the main reasons of why Satan the Devil – our mortal and spiritual enemy – formulated this doctrine of the Anti-christ is this -

To deny the truth that a normal human being – with HUMAN NATURE – could, with the glorious help of God’s Spirit, live in perfect obedience to the immutable LAW OF GOD as our Lord Jesus Christ did.

The apostle Paul explains why He came IN THE LIKENESS OF SINFUL FLESH –

“For what the law [the Old Covenant] COULD NOT DO in that it was weak THROUGH THE FLESH, …”

Minister Michael C. Garrett explains –

“It’s talking about the law of the Old Covenant. The law of the Old Covenant is an extremely physically oriented ritualistic grouping of ideas for people who were unconverted and very carnal, very physical – naturally human. But the Old Covenant, even though it had its place for a time, it ultimately could not solve your problems, because there was never life – there was never a promise of eternal life – contained in the tenants of the Old Covenant. The New Covenant, under which we now live with Jesus Christ being not only our Savior but now our living High Priest. That’s an agreement that has the PROMISE OF ETERNAL LIFE! … It is an extremely important principle! … The weakness of that covenant was the human carnality – the human flesh of people.” 1

“ … God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, …”

Our Lord Jesus Christ substituted HIMSELF for sinful flesh. He, being the sacrifice!

“ … on account of sin: He condemned sin IN THE FLESH” – Romans 8:3.

Christ opened the door to ending death. JESUS CHRIST opened the DOOR to all of us being under the bondage of sin and death (here speaking of the eternal second death).

“that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us …” meaning that the righteousness of God will be fulfilled in us. “ … who do not walk according to the flesh …” which means following certain physical rituals. “ … but according to the Spirit [of God]” – Romans 3:4.

So, Satan the Devil manufactured this idea that it is impossible for a human being to keep the spiritual Law of God, and so Jesus came as our Savior – not “IN THE FLESH” but that He was only Divine so that He could keep the Law of God perfectly in our stead! And thus therefore we don’t have to keep the spiritual Law of God. Truly, what our Lord Jesus Christ did in our stead was to sacrifice HIMSELF! His obedience is our EXAMPLE!

“For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: 22) ‘Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth’” – 1 Peter 2:21-22.

For our Lord Jesus teaches us – “ … ‘ if you want to enter into life [eternal life], KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS’” – Matthew 19:17. “ …’ For it is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God’” – Luke 4:4.

As our upper heavenly Elder Brother, High Priest, and Savior explains to us in the likes of the Book of Matthew chapter 5, we are to DO and TEACH the commandments of God, and that our righteousness (and it’s not our own righteousness, but a righteousness which is through faith in Christ, THE RIGHTEOUSNESS WHICH IS FROM GOD BY FAITH – cf. Philippians 3:9) should exceed ‘the righteousness’ of the scribes and Pharisees.

Our Lord Jesus goes on in this chapter to actually mention some of His commandments that were given at Mount Sinai – about murder, stealing, about adultery. Speaking of the letter of the commandments. Our righteousness (and again, not our own righteousness - THE RIGHTEOUSNESS WHICH IS FROM GOD BY FAITH) is to exceed the uber-religious of our day – of those who want to be JEWISH and Christian. Or, the term Judeo-Christian. And to this day – within the Church of God – there are people throughout all of these congregations who believe that they want to become followers of Jewish tradition and that somehow that will make them more righteous. Of this, our Lord Jesus tells us – “’ For I say to you, that unless your righteousness [the righteousness which is from God by faith] exceeds the righteousness [the righteousness from their trying to keep all the extremely physically oriented ritualistic laws] of the scribes and Pharisees, you WILL BY NO MEANS ENTER THE KINGDOM [FROM] HEAVEN’” – Matthew 5:20.

It wasn’t God’s eternal and relevant Law that was the problem – it was that people could never perfectly keep God’s Law. 

For His Law defined just what sin is.

In Romans 7:12 the apostle Paul writes, “Therefore the Law [speaking here of the TEN COMMANDMENTS] is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.”

Continuing in chapter 5 of the Book of Matthew we see that our Lord Jesus elevated God’s Law to a spiritual plane.

Turning over to the Book of Matthew chapter 23 Jesus stated –

Verse 2 – “ … ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3) Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, …’”

They were actually speaking and teaching God’s Law out of the ‘Book of Moses’ – as they call it. And He actually told the multitude and His disciples to ‘observe and do’ what they were teaching in regards to God’s Law. “ … ‘but …’” He continues, “ … ‘do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do.’”

It's like what I have witnessed personally by some “ministers of righteousness” in which I have heard quote our Lord Jesus, “’ A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, … By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.’” Yet, sadly, they neither have nor do they show this ‘love for one another.’ Again, our Lord Jesus Christ, “’ do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do.’”

Satan the Devil through his false ministers who appear as “ministers of righteousness” are deceiving this whole world into believing in a FALSE CHRIST! A Christ who not only did not come in the likeness of flesh, but who did away with God the Father’s Law and made it possible for mankind to inherit eternal life WITHOUT having to build – with the help of God’s Spirit – holy, righteous GODLY CHARACTER. As they teach – just believe and you will be saved.

Christ Was Human and Divine

One of the most puzzling problems to many a theologian is understanding just how the LORD God ordained that the ultimate penalty for humanities sin was to be paid. In fact, it was a large contention even during the apostles’ day.

One truth we need to understand is that the reward of sin – its very penalty – is eternal DEATH. Unfortunately, another thing that the churches of this world teach as doctrine – you’ve all heard it many times – is the immortality of the soul. Oh, do they love to talk about the immortality of the soul! And yet, not one place in the Bible can you find that concept! Not one! Now, you can find where Jesus Christ is the only One who has immortality within Him. And, obviously, God the Father has immortality within Him. But as far as us!? You know, Ezekiel 18 two times says, “The soul who sins SHALL DIE.” And, in the Book of Romans 1:32 – “…that those who practice such things are deserving of DEATH, …” Romans 6:16 – talks about a ‘sin leading to death.’ And Romans 6:21 – “…the end of those things is DEATH.” As well as –

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” – Romans 6:23.

Nothing about immortality! He goes on, Romans 7:5 – talks about the ‘motions of sins, which did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto DEATH.’ And then, Romans 8:6 – “For to be carnally minded is DEATH.” I think you get the idea. The Bible, over and over says, if we don’t walk the correct path and have the correct relationship with God, we are subject to eternal death. The Book of Revelation on two occasions talks about the ‘second death.’ Not just the death of our human bodies, but the death of our totality! Just gone! Just burned up – gone! No more! Cease to exist! No such thing as the immortality of the soul.

Jesus Christ was the ultimate sacrifice, which permanently deals with sin and this ENDS the sacrificial system!

“For I [the apostle Paul] delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ DIED for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4) and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures” – 1 Corinthians 15:3-4.

Since the apostle Paul – through the inspiration of the Spirit of God – indeed calls Satan the Devil the “god of this age” who has “blinded” this world (2 Corinthians 4:4), the greater majority of people have indeed been blinded, and have yet to be covered by the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ – our very Creator. Yet, this will happen for nearly all who will be called in an age to come – as God’s Master Plan of redemption and salvation to all, and not just today’s elect.

Our great High Priest was VICTORIOUS over Satan! 

And as the apostle Paul says, “But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterwards those who are Christ’s at His coming” – 1 Corinthians 15:23. And then all who has ever lived or will live (cf. Revelation 20:5, 11-13). Now, this atoning sacrifice doesn’t apply to humans UNTIL God the Father calls them, repent, baptized, and been gifted God’s Holy Spirit (cf. John 6:44; Mark 4:10-12; Acts 2:38) and truly try (with help from Almighty God and our Lord Jesus Christ) to live as THEY would have us live (cf. 1 John 2:6).

But, if our Lord Jesus Christ was ONLY human, He would have only been able to pay for one life - His own! No human being could have saved all humanity! Yet, the Word (the Logos, cf. John 1:1 – the being who would become our Lord Jesus Christ) alone could not of HIMSELF pay the penalty of mankind’s sin. Because the penalty is the forfeiting of HUMAN LIFE - not plant or animal life. The LORD God (the family of God; which at the moment consists of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ) are not only the source of all life, They also have life within Themselves! Notice –

“’ For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has granted the Son to have life in Himself’” – John 5:26.

This means They – having life in Themselves and being wholly spirit beings – cannot die.

“ … For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal” – 2 Corinthians 4:18b.

Therefore it was essential that there be One who was not only human but also divine.

UNLESS Jesus Christ and God the Father directly intervene there is no life after death! There is no such thing as an “immortal soul.” And the whole concept of an “immortal soul” began way back in the garden of Eden with our enemy Satan the devil – cf. Genesis 3:4.

Man DOES NOT have life inherent within himself. The LORD God tells us –

“And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being” – Genesis 2:7.

The LORD God told Adam because he heeded the voice of his wife –

“’ In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread Till you RETURN to the ground, For out of it you were taken; For dust you are, And to dust you shall return’” - Genesis 3:19.

Then the LORD God sent man out of the garden of Eden – “lest he put out his hand and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever” – verses 22-24.

So we see that man DID NOT have eternal life within themselves – and the LORD God did not permit man to obtain eternal life at that time.

The LORD God ALONE has life to give –

“In Him was LIFE [eternal life], and the life was the light of men” – John 1:4.

And, as our Lord Jesus told Lazarus’ sister Martha, “’ I AM the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live’” – John 11:25.

So, if our Lord Jesus Christ was only human, He could have saved but only one person – Himself. And given eternal life to no one. To do this required God – the very life and power of THE CREATOR OF ALL LIFE!

Jesus of Nazareth IS THE CREATOR!

The very first place in God’s living word where God is mentioned in time sequence is in the Book of John chapter 1 – we should all be familiar with it.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2) He was in the beginning with God. 3) All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made” – John 1:1-3.

Again, this revelation from Jesus Christ may seem redundant to some, yet this is knowledge that so few in this world truly grasp. The Word was a personal being, and He was called “the Word.” Originally written in the Greek language, the word was Logos – which translates to Spokesman, or the One who speaks. So, this Word was with God.

God is another being. So now we have two beings. Because then apostle John says, “and the Word was God.”

Under the very inspiration of the Spirit of God, the apostle Paul wrote –

“He [Jesus the Christ] is the image of the invisible God [God the Father], the firstborn over all creation. 16) For BY HIM all things were created that are in heaven, and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created THROUGH HIM and FOR HIM” – Colossians 1:15-17.

Christ Jesus – the Son of God – “His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, THROUGH WHOM also He made the worlds; … to the Son He says: ‘Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. … 10) And: ‘You, LORD, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, And the heavens are the work of Your hands. 11) They will perish, but You remain; And they will all grow old like a garment; 12) Like a cloak You will fold them up, And they will be changed. But You are the same, And Your years will not fail’” – Hebrews 1:2, 8, 10-12.

“For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast” – Psalm 33:9.

This shows us that Jesus of Nazareth was also divine and that He was (and is) the very CREATOR OF ALL THINGS VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE!

HE IS GOD OUR SAVIOR!

Therefore, His life which He SACRIFICED for all of us is of greater value than the complete total of all human beings past, present, and future!  

And then Hebrews 7 we read about Melchizedek. Notice verse 3 – this being – “without father, without mother, …” So, how can you be a being and not have a father or a mother!? Well, there are only two such beings. “ … without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, …” – and even angelic beings and demonic spirits have a beginning. At one point they didn’t exist, and at one point they were created. “…but made like the Son of God, remains a priest continually.” And then it goes on to say, in verse 4 – “Now consider how great this [M]an [really] was, to whom even the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils.” Melchizedek, king of Salam, without mother, without father, without beginning or end of days – the One we now call Jesus Christ! Abraham believed the One we now call Jesus Christ! And Abraham was the first person to understand the concept of the New Covenant.

Yet, we see that He was “like the Son of God.” He wouldn’t become the Son of God until He was born of the virgin Mary.

So, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ – the very One through whom God the Father created the heavens and the earth, was translated INTO FLESH!

Notice God’s living word –

“ … Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel” – Isaiah 7:14.

Which means “God with us.” Now, certainly, it must have been a difficult time for Joseph – wouldn’t you say!? Here he was betrothed (engaged to be married) to a young Jewish virgin, and he discovers one night while sitting down eating dinner, she’s pregnant. Surely it would have been difficult and troubling news for him to have found out. And it says that he didn’t want to “make her a public example” and instead decided to “put her away secretly” – which was lawful for him to do if she was found pregnant. “But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream” and told him, “Do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.” – the very power and Spirit of the Creator Almighty God! – cf. Matthew 1:18. God (Jesus the Messiah) is coming to be a human being!

And one of the FIRST PROPHECIES OF THIS VERY THING  – Genesis 3:15.

Here we see that even our Lord Jesus Christ’s glorious name revealed Him both as SAVIOR AND GOD! A divine being with us IN THE FLESH!

And as stated earlier - the Word (the Logos, cf. John 1:1 – the being who would become our Lord Jesus Christ) alone could not of HIMSELF pay the penalty of mankind’s sin. In order to pay the penalty of human sin, it wasn’t enough that He was divine. HE ALSO MUST BE HUMAN.

The LORD God’s definition of what sin is –

“Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness” - 1 John 3:4.

Lawlessness against the Government of God!

From the very foundation of the world, the LORD God’s Law was given to man – which included the TEN COMMANDMENTS – cf. Romans 4:15!

The transgression of the LORD God’s Law constitutes sin.

And to note: "For it is not possible that THE BLOOD OF BULLS AND GOATS could take away sins. 5) THEREFORE, when He came into the world, He said: 'Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, But a body You have prepared for Me. 6) In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin You had no pleasure. 7) Then I said, 'BEHOLD, I HAVE COME─In the volume of the book [the HOLY BIBLE] it is written of Me─ To do Your will, O God'" - Hebrews 10:4-7.

God had added this sacrificial system there at Mount Sinai which had to do with the sacrifice of bullocks, goats, lambs, and turtle doves. Along with the sacrificial lamb at Passover – these were all a symbol of redemption until the ‘SEED SHOULD COME’ – the ONE AND ONLY true sacrifice! God added this sacrificial system as a temporary atonement for His people UNTIL THE TIME OF REFORMATION - cf. Hebrews 9:10.

We see this principle – that a blood sacrifice must be made to atone for sin – when Abel sacrificed a firstborn of his flock, a lamb.

“And in the process of time [not long after creation, in Hebrew, ‘at the end of days’ – some suggesting that Cain might have brought the offering on the Sabbath 2] it came to pass that Cain brought an offering of the fruit of the ground to the LORD. 4) Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat. And the LORD respected Abel and his OFFERING, 5) but He did not respect Cain and his OFFERING. And Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell” – Genesis 4:3-5.

Abel gave a BLOOD SACRIFICE for the atonement of sin. Cain did not bring any firstborn from a flock – he just brought a basket of fruit.

So here is the very possibility of sin for Cain – and he could not have sinned if there had not been a Law for him to transgress.

In chapter 8 of the Book of Genesis when the ark came to rest in the seventh month, on the mountain of Ararat – Noah did something.

“Then Noah built an altar to the LORD, and took of every clean animal and every clean bird [see Leviticus 11:1-47], and offered burnt offerings on the altar” – Genesis 8:20.

The patriarch Noah gave a BLOOD SACRIFICE for the atonement of sin.

Now, we are still centuries before the LORD God gave His Law at Mount Sinai having to do with the sacrificial system of the Old Covenant – of the Mosaic law. Here, Noah built an altar – and not only did he take of animals, but he took only of every clean animal.

Turning into the Book of Leviticus chapter 16 we see the goat slain at the Atonement ceremony – and one doesn’t have to fully understand Leviticus 16 to have the love of our Savior Jesus Christ to be poured out upon them, or His grace, His Spirit, His glorious promise of eternal life. Yet, a great many churches that are still deeply entrenched in the Old Covenant make you think that this is the ultimate crux of the gospel of Christ. It is not!

It is true that our Lord Jesus Christ would become our Atonement – it was prophesied – we often read this during the Passover – or the Lord’s Supper – because it’s such a description of what Jesus endured – Isaiah 53:1-3.

The LORD God’s Master Plan laid out before us!

“In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation [atonement] for our sins” – 1 John 4:10.

“For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7) For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. 8) But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9) Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. 10) For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. 11) And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation” – Romans 5:6-11.

Our Lord Jesus Christ was the ‘atonement’ for us in the reconciliation to Father God.

The LORD God explains to us in 1st Corinthians –

“For since by man [Adam] came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. 22) For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. 23) BUT EACH ONE IN HIS OWN ORDER: Christ the firstfruits [Our Lord Jesus Christ HIMSELF], AFTERWARD those who are Christ’s at His second coming [a first resurrection of the dead – in Christ]. 24) Then comes THE END, …” – 1 Corinthians 15:22-24.

Jesus Christ had HUMAN NATURE

This nature is but an invisible pull toward the likes of self-centeredness, vanity, lust, greed, jealousy, envy, hatred, and rivalry. It is a nature of rebellion, and hostility against authority. He also had another pull, as we all do, the inordinate desire of the FLESH – an unrighteous desire of our five senses. Yet, He lived WITHOUT SIN!

The apostle Paul wrote –

“Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world [meaning, under the bondage of the Mosaic law].”

The Jamieson Fausset and Brown Commentary writes according to this “elements of the world” – “The Jews in their bondage to the law of Moses, as the representative people of the world, include all mankind virtually amenable to God’s Law. … Even the Gentiles were under “bondage,” and in a state of discipline suitable nonage, till Christ came as the Emancipator” 3

4) But WHEN THE FULLNESS OF THE TIME HAD COME, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law [the Mosaic law], to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons [of sonship]” – Galatians 4:3-5.

So, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was born of a woman “under the law” – here meaning the Mosaic law. And being human He was under the inevitable law that human cells die – which results in death. All cells in a human being and in animals have a clock, represented by the telomeres on the ends of the chromosomes. When these are worn away, the cell dies. Material things are not eternal. 

Our Lord Jesus took upon Himself a physical human body and was made subject to death to be our Savior! Not only the natural first death but also the eternal second death! However, our Lord Jesus Christ had to be sacrificed for the Scriptures to be fulfilled - cf. Isaiah 53:7. The LORD God has a MASTER PLAN to save all mankind (past, present, and future) from the death penalty, and our Lord Jesus was the "Lamb of God" who came to take away the sin of the world - John 1:29.

“Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, HE HIMSELF LIKEWISE SHARED IN THE SAME, that THROUGH DEATH He might destroy him who had power of death, that is, the devil” – Hebrews 2:14.

The apostle Paul further explains –

“who, being in the form of God, …” – this exactly tells us that Jesus was a member of the divine Elohim – the God family. “ … did not consider it robbery to be equal with God.” – in other words, He was on a level with the God family. He was a divine being that had been there with God. And He did not think that position of authority and power was something to be grasped at – to cling to. He believed that it was more important to risk eternal life – giving it all up. “but made Himself of no reputation, …” – and I have written in my margin, “He emptied Himself.” He let go of all of that power, glory, position, and the eternal life that He had. “ … taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8) And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” – that’s the kind of mind that we are to have! We are to be willing to go all in when it comes to Almighty God and Jesus Christ!

And in living a perfect life, and in doing great miracles, our Lord Jesus DID NOT have any special help from God the Father that we cannot also have.

Sadly, this is a truth of which so many are deceived. □

Bibliography

1) Garrett, M.C., Christ In You (Unleavened Bread – Day 3) – 2017 “VIDEO,” 21 Apr. 2019.

2) Jamieson Fausset and Brown Commentary on the Whole Bible. Jamieson Robert, Fausset R. A., Brown David, Zondervan Publishing House, 1961, pg. 20.

3) Ibid. pg. 1269.

Additional article of interest

Anti-christs – in the last hour - Now listen carefully – you can attempt to keep God’s Laws – the Ten Commandments – you can strive your entire life to live by God’s Laws and you will be no closer to the kingdom of God than a serial murderer. Because, “personal protection and ultimate salvation” is based upon LOOKING TO JESUS CHRIST, LOOKING TO THE KINGDOM OF GOD, LOOKING TO THE NEW COVENANT!

Personal From… What Gospel? - Back in the spring of 2018, a man on Facebook tried to tell me “the gospel that should be preached now is the Gospel of grace of God.” He also went on to say, “the gospel of the kingdom will be preached again after the rapture to Israel before the second coming. We cannot preach the gospel of the kingdom now because that was meant for the lost sheep of the house of Israel only.” But, is this correct!? Today, as it was so long ago (cf. Galatians 1:6-9), many preach a different gospel – “which is not another.”

Did Jesus Have Long Hair? - This early morning I had noticed the issue of Did Jesus Have Long Hair? came up. We receive a great number of “friend” requests from people on Facebook who have pictures of a supposed Jesus with long hair and feminine features. Did our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ have long hair!?

A Morning Bible Study - Just What Is Armageddon?

Leonard V. Johnson     About

In our latest Letter to our Friends, we briefly speak of Armageddon. Just what is Armageddon!? Does it have anything to do with the 1998 blockbuster movie “Armageddon” starring Bruce Willis!? Nearly everyone on this planet has heard the name “Armageddon.” World leaders, movie directors, and even scientists have all used this biblical name when speaking of an all-out nuclear war between world nations, or even a “planet-killing” asteroid! Yet, very few know just what Armageddon is.

In this Bible study let’s begin to understand how this name fits into biblical prophecy – especially when it comes to the glorious and powerful return of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ!

“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness, The power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, And You are exalted as head over all” – 1st Chronicles 29:11. Amen.

1) What are the first FOUR future plagues allowed by the LORD God upon an unrepentant sinful world!? Called in the Bible “the seven last plagues.”

ONE

“Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals; and I heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, ‘Come and see.’ 2) And I looked, …”

So, it was the apostle John that this cherub was addressing – not the whole world here.

“ … and behold, a WHITE HORSE. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.” – Revelation 6:1-2.

Now, I guess there could be different interpretations. However, it is possible that this represents a false religion gaining great strength and world prestige again –the Mother Church of Europe – which has plunged this world into numerous world wars!

Notice –

“ …’ Take heed that no one deceives you. 5) For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many’” – Matthew 24:4-5.

TWO

“When He opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, ‘Come and see.’ 4) Another HORSE, FIERY RED, went out. And it was granted to the one who sat on it to take peace from the earth, and that people should kill one another; and there was given to him a great sword” – Revelation 6:3-4.

This is our Lord Jesus Christ suggesting the prophecy of the prophet Daniel in chapter 11. A direct reference to a final holy war between the end-time Catholic United States of Europe (‘king of the North’) and the Islamic confederation of nations (‘king of the South’) – cf. Daniel 11:40; Revelation 9:13-16.

Notice –

“’ For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. …’” – Matthew 24:7a.

Religious motivated militancy and aggression often lead to war. And wars often lead to FAMINE, which is mentioned as number three.

THREE

“When He opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, ‘Come and see.’ So I looked, and behold, a BLACK HORSE, and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand. 6) And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, ‘A quart of wheat for a denarius [which was approximately one day’s wage for a worker!], and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine.’” – Revelation 6:5-6.

The black horse of FAMINE. So here the food is very scarce. Your food is being measured out on a scale in very small quantities – like a cup of wheat. Not enough food to sustain one’s family let alone themselves! And, not only the purchase of wheat but also of barley.

Notice –

“ … ‘ And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places’” – Matthew 24:7b.

FOUR

“When He opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, ‘Come and see.’ 8) So I looked, and behold, a PALE HORSE. And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades [the grave] followed him. And power was given to them over A FOURTH OF THE EARTH, to kill with SWORD, with HUNGER, with DEATH, and by the beasts of the earth” – Revelation 6:7-8.

So, it is as if death and the grave are personified here with this being which is sitting upon this pale horse.

You take 8 billion people – we’re talking about 2 billion people who are going to die as a result of these events here! And I know this is horrible news! Again, when the prophet Ezekiel saw what was written on that scroll, it was lamentations and mourning and woe.” – cf. Ezekiel 2:9-10.

The majority of the Anglo-Saxon-dominated nations will be affected – which are the end-time descendants of Israel, also prophetically referred to as Israel (cf. Genesis 48).

Notice –

“’ All these are the beginning of sorrows’” – Matthew 24:8.

2) What are the last THREE future plagues upon a still unrepentant sinful world!?

FIVE

“When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held” – Revelation 6:9.

This, of course, is allegorical language. Throughout our history, many peoples were martyred doing God’s true work – and in the very near future, there will be many more martyred. So, the fifth seal talks about the martyrdom of God’s true servants – a group of “end-time prophets” who go out throughout the world as a witness to all nations and preach the living gospel message – the kingdom of God.

Notice –

“’ Then they will deliver you …’” – here pertaining mostly to the final “end-time prophets” – cf. Revelation 11. “ ‘… up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. 10) And then many will be offended, will betray one another. 11) Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12) And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold’” – Matthew 24:9-12.

And they – possibly twelve final end-time prophets – will be given power from God Almighty and Jesus Christ to begin prophesying – testifying - to kings, to world rulers, to the captured and subjugated elect of God, to a great religious leader and political leader – standing before the god of the earth (Satan the devil) – WARNING for 3 ½ years!

“’ And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world AS A WITNESS to all the nations, AND THEN THE END WILL COME’” – Matthew 24:14.

SIX

“I looked when He opened the sixth seal, and behold, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became like blood” – Revelation 6:12.

Logically, the moon appears "like blood" or reddish – when it appears in an atmosphere full of dust, smoke, or smog! The atmosphere will be thick with volcanic ash towers from a great number of volcanoes erupting around the globe, possibly caused by the massive "great earthquake."

Our Lord Jesus Christ also prophesied of this sixth seal.

Notice –

“’ Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; …’” – Matthew 24:29a.

SEVEN

“When He opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour” – Revelation 8:1.

Now, we believe that the first four of these trumpets are in conjunction with the prophesied “end time prophets” which are spoken of in the Book of Revelation chapter 11 – which finalizes with the “Two Witnesses.”

This ‘fallen star’ is Satan the Devil and his demons being thrown into the ‘bottomless pit’ just before the glorious and powerful return of Jesus Christ, His saints, and His angels! – cf. Revelation 20:1-2. Back in the 1st chapter of the Book of Revealing, our Lord Jesus Christ tells us that “stars” can represent angels – Revelation 1:20.

“And they [these 200 million strong Islamic soldiers, which is spoken of when the sixth angel sounds his trumpet] had as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, but in Greek he has the name Apollyon” – Revelation 9:11.

Of course here referring to Satan the Devil.

“One woe is past. Behold, still two more woes are coming after these things.”

3) What will occur when this SIXTH TRUMPET BLAST is poured out!?

“Then the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, so that the way of the kings from the east might be prepared” – Revelation 16:12.

The great river Euphrates – the longest river in southwest Asia, it is 1,740 miles (2,800 km) long, and it is one of the two main constituents of the Tigris-Euphrates river system – will be dried up. The river rises in Turkey and flows southeast across Syria and through Iraq.

“And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon [a reference to Satan the Devil], out of the mouth of the beast [a final end time Catholic United States of Europe], and out of the mouth of the false prophet [a final end time great religious leader]” – Revelation 16:13.

Notice that these three unclean spirits directly influence the leaders of nations - verse 14.

4) Are these three unclean spirits truly responsible for gathering together the armies of the nations!?

“For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings [the leaders] of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty” – Revelation 16:14.

Satan the Devil and two of his demons will especially work through human leaders. Such as a final end-time “beast,” a political-military leader of the 10-nation revival of the “Holy” Roman Empire. Also, through a final end time “false prophet,” a great religious leader who will have global appeal because “he performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven [the atmosphere] on the earth in the sight of men” – Revelation 13:11-17. They work together and will spiritually influence this world’s political and military leaders to mobilize their forces!

5) WHERE do these three spirits of demons cause the armies of the nations to be gathered together!?

“And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon” – Revelation 16:16.

The nations will gather their great military forces at a place called “Armageddon.” Armageddon actually comes from the Greek rendering of the Hebrew name Har Megiddo. “hill of Megiddo.” Megiddo is a plain about 86 miles north of Jerusalem.

Ancient Megiddo was one of the royal cities of the Canaanites. The city was not fully occupied by the Israelites until the time of King Solomon. Notice –

“And Solomon had twelve governors over all Israel, who provided food for the king and his household; each one made provision for one month of the year. … 12) Baana the son of Ahilud, in Taanach, Megiddo, and all Beth Shean, …” – 1st Kings 4:7, 12.

Megiddo and the valley of Megiddo became a strategic site. Megiddo was the most important fortress city that guarded the strategic passes of the Mt. Carmel area.

For the kingdom of Israel, Megiddo as well as the Plain of Jezreel became a battleground for centuries. Time after time vicious bloody battles were fought there. Today Tel Megiddo is a national park!

Notice the Book of Joel chapter 3 –

Verse 1 – “’ For behold, in those days and at that time, When I bring back the captives of Judah and Jerusalem.’”

Here speaking about a two-fold prophetic statement at the time of the end when these nations are going to be in a type of subjugation. Now, do we ever hear this talked about in our news media!? That we here in the great United States of America could be someday in a state of subjugation by a foreign power!? Absolutely prostrate on the ground in front of our enemies!?

Verse 2 – “’ I will also gather all nations, And bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat.’”

The name Jehoshaphat means “YHWH has judged.” So, the focal point of this massive battle will be in the Valley of Jehoshaphat. This valley is slightly northeast of the Old City of Jerusalem, which then separates the Temple Mount from the Mount of Olives. Today it known as the Kidron Valley.

6) How is this great climatic battle pictured!?

Continuing in the Book of Joel chapter 3 –

Verse 9 – “Proclaim this among the nations: ‘Prepare for war! Wake up the mighty men, Let all the men of war draw near, Let them come up. 10) Beat your plowshares into swords And your pruning hooks into spears; Let the weak say, ‘I am strong.’”

Verse 11 – “Assemble and come, all you nations [the Gentile nations], And gather together all around. …”

Verse 12 – “’ Let the nations be wakened, and come up to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; …” – indeed, speaking of just what we read in Revelation 16:16.

“ … ‘For there I will sit to judge all the surrounding nations. 13) Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. …’” –see Revelation 14:14-16. “ … ‘Come, go down; For the winepress is full, The vats overflow – For their wickedness is great.’”

Verse 14 – “Multitudes, multitudes [millions!] in the valley of decision! For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision.”

7) What will occur when the SEVENTH TRUMPET BLAST sounds!?

We’re speaking about a time here when there is NO MORE DELAY.

“but in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets” – Revelation 10:7.

SEVENTH ANGEL, SEVENTH TRUMP! THIS IS THE RESURRECTION TRUMP! And you can turn to 1st Thessalonians chapter 4 and 1st Corinthians chapter 15, and we can read about this very event! – “the mystery of God would be finished.” In fact, this is the culmination of the event which is depicted by all of God’s prophets down through history. Certainly, all of the prophecies we read about that is yet to be fulfilled, such as in the Book of Isaiah chapter 2, Micah chapter 4, and even in the Book of Habakkuk where it says, “For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, As the waters cover the sea.” All of God’s prophets have looked to this moment in time! And here it is about to unfold! They have all thought about and meditated and pondered this very moment! There are even some of whom I know – begotten children of God who have since died – that looked for this very moment in time! In the Book of Hebrews, the apostle Paul speaks of men and women, who lived by faith – some of which were “tortured, … had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment … stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented─ of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth. And ALL THESE, having obtained a good testimony THROUGH FAITH, DID NOT RECEIVE THE PROMISE”! “These all died IN FAITH, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them.” – cf. Hebrews 11:13, 35, 36-39.

“Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven [the atmosphere], saying, ‘The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord [God the Father] and of His Christ [our Lord Jesus Christ], and He shall reign forever and ever!” – Revelation 11:15.

The BLOWING OF THE SEVENTH TRUMP is that event where the saints of God – living and dead – are resurrected and brought into full-time eternal membership in the family of God! □

Scriptural Index

Old Testament - Genesis 48; 1 Kings 4:7, 12; 1 Chronicles 29:11; Ezekiel 2:9-10; Daniel 11:40; Joel 3:1, 2, 9-10, 11, 12, 13, 14; Habakkuk 2:14.

New Testament - Matthew 24:4-5, 7, 8, 9-12, 14, 29; Hebrews 11:13, 35, 36-39; Revelation 1:20; 6:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9, 12; 8:1, 7-12; 9:1-11, 12, 13-19; 10:7; 11:15; 13:11-17; 14:14-16; 16:12, 13, 14, 16; 20:1-2.

Letter to our Friends - January 17, 2023

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST ONLINE MINISTRIES

P.O. Box 6458

SPRING HILL, FLORIDA 34606

www.owensborocojc.com

Leonard V. Johnson

Pastor and Founder

Dear Friends, Greetings from west-central Florida:

There are according to Volcano Discovery 27 different erupting volcanoes AT THIS VERY MOMENT! And a great many others around the world are showing signs of waking up! We are also witnessing a lot of unusual earthquakes around the world. As we are aware our Lord Jesus Christ has WARNED us, “’ And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be … troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows’” – Mark 13:8. It also appears that seismic activity is rising as we enter into the civil beginning of the year 2023!

Two of Hawaii’s largest volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, are erupting simultaneously! Duel eruptions haven’t been seen since 1984! Can you imagine witnessing red hot lava shooting 10 stories into the sky!? The speed with which the lava is flowing will absolutely take your breath away! – nearly 6 mph!

Also, the giant volcano Mount Semeru erupted back on December 4th, 2021, ejecting volcanic ash into the sky and raining hot mud on villages, killing at least 51 people and injuring 169 others. The volcano erupted once this past Saturday and twice this past Friday. It spewed out 700 meters to one-kilometer-high white and gray ash columns with thick intensity. As of Saturday, 17 volcanoes across the Southeast Asian country have been on level 2 alert status. The Marapi volcano in West Sumatra, located on the island of Sumatra, erupted 191 times on Saturday. With 142 volcanoes, Indonesia has the largest population globally living in close range to a volcano. Around 8.6 million people live within a radius of 10 kilometers of the volcanoes. 1

On average, there are 50-70 volcanoes that erupt every year. And some of them erupt multiple times a year. More than 75% of earth’s volcanoes lie within the so-called Ring of Fire. The other great volcanic region of the world is the Mediterranean Belt which stretches from Southern Europe to Central Asia. Within these two great regions occur more than 95% of all earthquakes.

In this era of time which our Lord Jesus Christ called, ‘the beginning of sorrows’ are these sleeping giants awakening!? It appears that after centuries dormant, a great many are thundering back to life!

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) website, there are currently 161 potentially active volcanoes in the U.S. And according to one source, more than 270, 000 people have been killed directly or indirectly by volcanic activity worldwide during the past 500 years. 2

Quite possibly the most famous of earth’s volcanoes in the history of humanity was the Mount Vesuvius eruption of A.D. 79! Which utterly destroyed the sexually immoral city of Pompeii – the city is still remembered (fondly I might add) by a great many, such as in the modern song “Pompeii” by British rock band Bastille. By 79, Pompeii had a population of 20,000. In a Roman world caught up with sexual immorality, Pompeii was the beacon, shining its light to lead the way. 3 It was a very wealthy city just southeast of the modern-day city of Naples.

Another great passion of the Pompeiians was the gladiator games – which in A.D. 59, there was a serious riot and bloodshed in the amphitheater between Pompeiians and Nucerians, which caused the Roman Senate to send the military to restore order and banned events for ten years. 4

The citizens of the city of Pompeii had long been used to minor earthquakes. But on 5th February 62, a massive earthquake – possibly between a 5 and 6 on the Richter Scale – caused considerable damage to the city. On that very day, there were two sacrifices in the city, as it was the anniversary of Caesar Augustus being named the “Father of the Fatherland” and also a Roman feast day in honor of the city’s guardian spirits. Chaos and confusion followed the massive earthquake! Then 17 years later Mount Vesuvius erupted, lasting two days! The first phase was of pumice rain lasting about 18 hours. And at some time in the night or early the next day, pyroclastic flows began near the volcano, consisting of high-speed, dense, and scorching ash clouds, knocking down wholly or partly all structures in their path, incinerating or suffocating the population. 5

Sadly, in this 21st-century world, the complete destruction of the city of Pompeii means little to nothing to most of our peoples! Yet, there is a striking similarity between the abominable lifestyles of the ancient Pompeiians and those of the modern-day nations of Israel today! Many just simply live out their lives unconcerned about the grave ramifications of their actions. But our CREATOR IS CONCERNED! The LORD our God has given us a living immutable LAW by which each of us can be happy, successful, and fulfilled. IF we break this Law, we doom ourselves to peril. For the LORD God says –

“’ I call heaven and earth as witnesses TODAY [the very day that you see and hear this] against you, that I have set before you LIFE AND DEATH, BLESSING AND CURSING; therefore choose life, …’” – Deuteronomy 30:19.

Of course, as our Lord Jesus says, time and chance can happen to the unrepentant – cf. Luke 13:1-5. He WARNS – “’ I tell you, … unless you REPENT you will all likewise perish.’”

God’s living word is replete with instances when the LORD God intervened or allowed certain actions to halt activities that were a grievous insult to not only the LORD God but to men as well! Such as the complete destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah for their out-of-control sexual immoralities. Such as the complete annihilation of the inhabitants of the world in the days of patriarch Noah because of… as the LORD our God says, ‘the wickedness of man which was great upon the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was ONLY EVIL continually’ – cf. Genesis 6:5.

Is the annihilation of ancient Pompeii just merely the end result of chance – or is there an IMPORTANT WARNING here!? The LORD God says in the Book of Proverbs chapter 11 –

“Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed” – Proverbs 11:11, NIV.

It should be food for thought. Especially when we look around this world and witness the many abominable sins rampant in our cities today! The complete hypocrisy of our peoples and the fact – cf. many of our peoples appear to be insane!

Interestingly enough – after the destruction, the site of Pompeii was subject to looting. The people who had managed to flee came back to see whether they could retrieve any of their possessions. Someone scratched the words “Sodom and Gomorrah” on the wall of a house. Surely, someone saw the analogy even then of a warning for societies that sin against – who they had titled “THE UNKNOWN GOD”!

What about our societies in this modern world!? This “present evil age”!? – Galatians 1:4. Are we witnessing an uptick in a reawakening in earthquake and volcanic activity!? For truth, we must turn to TRUTH – the LORD God’s living word!

The Bible does foretell a tumultuous period of growing natural disasters! Our world conditions in ‘this generation’ plainly indicate that we are in ‘the beginning of birth pains’ – NIV. Our Lord Jesus Christ’s own words show us that these earthquakes – as are happening – would be accompanied by historically unparalleled volcanic activity heralding the end of this present age – our Lord Jesus quoting the Book of Isaiah –

“’ Immediately after the distress of those days ‘the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’” – Matthew 24:29, NIV.

The Day of the LORD is near!

“’ Wail, for the Day of the LORD is near; it will come like destruction from the Almighty. 7) Because of this, all hands will go limp, every man’s heart will melt. 8) Terror will seize them, pain and anguish will grip them; … 13) Therefore I [the LORD God] will make the heavens tremble; and the earth will shake from its place at the wrath of the LORD Almighty in the day of His burning anger’” – Isaiah 13:6-8, 13.

According to the biblical timeline, for almost 6,000 years, mankind has flat-out rejected the LORD God! Mankind has rejected the peace and security which is outlined for us in our “Instruction Manual.” And, as I just stated to my wife yesterday evening – our Savior will need to return to this earth early just to keep mankind from annihilating ourselves due to our pollution of this planet! Indeed, uncaring humans play a KEY ROLE in the biosphere and earth’s ecosystems. Instead of spending millions of dollars sending a single robotic mission to space, why are we not spending this money to… Oh, just spitballing… eliminate our ocean GARBAGE PATCHES! - the collections of plastic waste and other debris found in higher concentrations in certain parts of the ocean! However, there can be no solution to even this unless EVERY SINGLE nation, country, and province is on board! Worldwide, humanity has wiped out 60% of animal species since 1970! *

 

The LORD God tells us that all of this is the result of sin! - “For the creation [speaking about the whole of the physical universe] was subjected to frustration, NOT BY ITS OWN CHOICE, …”

“ … but by the will of the One who subjected it, …”

Notice how eloquently put Ellicott's Commentary speaks of this –

“The Apostle gives the reason for this earnest expectation in the present state of nature; pointing out what creation is. If creation were perfect and was fulfilling the noblest possible purpose, there would be no cause for looking forward hopefully to the future.” 6

“ … IN HOPE that the creation itself [meaning, ‘all physically created things’ including the universe], will be liberated from its bondage to decay [its bondage to the law of decay] and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God” – Romans 8:20-21, NIV.

Note: truly, this law of decay proves that life originated from a Divine Being with intelligence outside of this physical universe.

And unless our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ STOPS EARLY our present course, there will be nothing left on this earth to save – cf. Matthew 24:22.

Our peoples who have scoffed at our CREATOR, and yet seen the wonderful design of CREATION, will soon have their hearts fail them “’ from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth’” – Luke 21:26.

“For SINCE THE CREATION OF THE WORLD His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, SO THAT THEY ARE WITHOUT EXCUSE” – Romans 1:20.

The LORD God’s UNIVERSAL LAWS (and I understand that this statement has some ambiguity). Ambiguity because all we know is what we are aware of in our own local area of the LORD God’s universe.

And ONLY the LORD God can change these laws!

This whole earth – all that are upon this earth – are going to be affected by these growing natural disasters. The LORD God, however, is merciful! We are plainly told if you will listen –

“’ 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 21:36.

But a disbelieving world is going to be ensnared.

Take this IMPORTANT WARNING to heart.

The “short work upon the earth”

Minister Guy LaMar reminded us back in 2021 – in his “Think About This… ” – the very fact that TIME IS GROWING EVER SHORTER! Our Lord Jesus has said, “’ I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work’” – John 9:4. Truly, what lessons are here for us, and what encouragement from our Example!

As I have mentioned many times – it does appear as if God the Father and our Lord Jesus have been holding back the utter destruction of the United States of America, the United Kingdom and her Commonwealth Nations, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand respectively – because there are maybe ten in one-million righteous people within these nations!? It should make us wonder. Is that number depleting as time goes by!? Jesus Christ is soon coming! And like what Minister Guy asks, “will it be within this next decade!?”

But for what it is worth – our Lord Jesus Christ clearly WARNED to WATCH –

“’ But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only’” – Matthew 24:36.

“’ But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into’” – vs. 43.

“’ Blessed is the servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing. … But if that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ … the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him and at an hour that he is not aware of’” – vss. 46, 48, 50.

“’ WATCH therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming’” – Matthew 25:13.

“’ But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day [the Day of the LORD] come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the whole earth’” – Luke 21:34-35.

“’ Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branches has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it [or rather He] is near – at the doors! Assuredly, I say to you, this generation [the generation which sees all these things come to pass] will by no means pass away till all these things take place’” – Matthew 24:32-34.

WATCHING we certainly witness that there is every indication that God the Father and Jesus Christ are now speeding up the things which MUST take place before Their coming! Well, friends, ‘summer is near’! – right at the door!

In the Book of Revelation a great prophecy of our God in which an angel with a loud voice cries out, ‘Do not harm the earth and the sea, or the trees UNTIL we have completed in sealing God’s servants on their foreheads.’ Friends, when will the sealing of the 144,000 be finished!?

Moreover, the LORD has also said to the prophet Isaiah, and we certainly should read this passage of the Book of Isaiah (Is. 10:22-23) in its entirety –

“Isaiah also cries out concerning ISRAEL: ‘Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, The remnant will be saved. …’”

The message given by the apostle Paul may appear to differ from what the prophet Isaiah intended, but there is a sameness of sentiment in both messages. This also is a reference to what our Lord Jesus Christ said, “’ And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened’” – here speaking of a remnant of the physical descendants of Israel will indeed be saved.

“’ For He will finish the work AND CUT IT SHORT in righteousness, Because the LORD will make a short work upon the earth’” – Romans 9:27-28.

Truly, the “cut it short” means a speedy completion of His work and word, both in cutting off the one portion and saving the other.

Here from now on, things may occur VERY SUDDENLY AND RAPIDLY, to finish the great work and word of the Eternal One! Nevertheless, please PRAY for this work of God as never before!

Helping Others

Early December 2022 we posted in our Letter to our Friends the awesome news that TI CCOG is raising funds to help the orphans at the North Alabama Christian Children’s Home along with the elderly living in the area desperately needing our help. We are excited to announce that over $800 has been raised for this great cause so far! Please, if possible and are able and willing to help, you may donate here - https://gofund.me/802715ff. Or, if gofundme is not conducive, you can contact Minister LaMar @ guy_lamar@yahoo.com for additional information.

Now, while we will not – and cannot – tell you that you cannot directly assist the poor, we encourage you not to send funds to people claiming to be members of the Church of Jesus Christ Online Ministries or our affiliated churches in “developing nations.” There are a number of reasons for this. Including prioritizing legitimate needs as well as reducing resentment and division that sending funds to one and not the other can cause.

Also, and we are asked this almost monthly, we encourage our brethren and friends in “highly developed” countries not to sponsor potential immigrants into their nations who are not relatives. So, if you receive solicitations for either, be very leery – we encourage you to not fund nor directly sponsor someone.

Again, if you wish to give a special donation to the poor, we in the Church of Jesus Christ Online Ministries or our affiliated churches are gladly accepting them, and we strive to be proper stewards with the funds to help the poor, the widows, and orphans. You can contact us at pastorleonard1@yahoo.com, or send a special donation to:

Church of Jesus Christ Online Ministries

P.O. Box 6458

Spring Hill, Florida 34606  USA

Suggested Sabbath Day Service

Here is our suggested Sabbath day service for our scattered brethren and friends around the world:

• TWO songs of praise. (our songbook, The Bible Hymnal, is suggested, there is some Instrumental Accompaniment to the Bible Hymnal available on our website).

• Opening prayer.

• Announcements – from the deacon or pastor.

• Sermon – from the pastor or a guest speaker. The one suggested for this week is “Where Are We Headed?” – which goes along with the opening of this Letter.

• Closing song.

• Closing prayer.

In case you do not receive a ‘Letter to our Friends’ for any week, remember that there are many sermon messages on the Church of Jesus Christ Online Ministries’ BitChute channel, as well as our Soundcloud Radio channel. We also post all Letters to our Friends on our webpage.

Some World News In Relation To Biblical Prophecy

Grave economic concerns are remaining high in the news! (See: ‘AP - World Bank: Recession a looming threat for global economy’). Surely, many in Europe are blaming the United States of America for triggering this!

What is recession!? Notice the following –

What’s a Recession?

The official definition varies. Some define a recession as two consecutive quarters in which output declines. The National Bureau of Economic Research is technically in charge of declaring recessions, which it defines as “a significant decline in economic activity that is spread across the economy and that lasts more than a few months.” …

For those concerned about layoffs, try to build up emergency savings of least three to six months of living expenses, experts say. If you do experience a job loss, remember you have options — there are still lots of openings. …

What Else Can I Do?

The most common advice from financial experts: Don’t panic. …

Noah Damsky, a financial planner at Marina Wealth Advisors, recommends some overall “belt tightening.” Cutting down on discretionary expenses and boosting savings is always a good idea, but especially so when a recession might be coming.

READ MORE: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-07-14/is-the-us-in-a-recession-how-to-prepare-for-economic-downturn.

Many people lose income and/or jobs during a recession and there are fewer goods and services – in essence, a global recession would certainly mean that the whole world gets poorer.

God’s living word – the Holy Bible – points to greater food shortages and even greater food prices. Of INFLATION –

“When He [our Lord Jesus Christ] opened the THIRD SEAL, I heard the third living creature say, ‘Come and see.’ So I looked and behold, a BLACK HORSE, and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand. 6) And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, ‘A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine’” – Revelation 6:5-6.

Be sure to read “Revelation – A Book of the Past and the Future (Part Four)” for additional information regarding this.

In this present evil world, we are witnessing a lot of economic uncertainty.

There are recessions, oftentimes stagflation, disasters, global weather troubles, wars, rumors of wars, and even depressions – all that affect in one way or another income and our physical needs.

Here in Florida, we have the “right-to-work laws” in the context of labor law. The right-to-work laws do not aim to provide a general guarantee of employment to people seeking work but rather guarantee an employee's choice to not pay or be a member of a financially supporting labor union. So, we know that one can lose a job at any time. But, of course, there could be health problems or even the death of the main income provider. To Note: Japan’s job’s-for-life system is being left behind by a changing world. 7

But there are things that true Christians can and should do.

Notice –

“The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender” – Proverbs 22:7.

Instead of being in debt, God’s begotten children should strive to save money. And, they should be givers and rely fully on the LORD God’s blessings! For the LORD God says –

“’ For I AM the LORD, I do not change; … 8) ‘Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. 9) You are cursed with a curse, For you have robbed Me, Even this whole nation’” – Malachi 3:6, 8-9.

“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” – Philippians 2:4.

“But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7) So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. 8) And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work. 9) As it is written:

‘He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever’” – 2 Corinthians 9:6-9.

Yes, we ALL NEED TO CONSIDER HELPING OTHERS!

We should first seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness. And, we should try not to be in debt, we should try and save money, and we should give to others as we purpose in our hearts, not grudgingly or out of necessity.

All of these should be a part of our preparedness.

Also in world news – which rarely is emphasized in mainstream media – is that the United States of America, China, as well as the European Union, are continuing their efforts to improve trade among Asia and South America. (See: ‘The Asian Times – Alternative To China’s Belt & Road Initiative, European Union Eyes ‘Global Gateway’ To Counter The BRI’). On the surface this sounds like a good thing – doesn’t it? Yet, the USA and its British-descended allies are basically not a part of these programs – even though the USA says that it does want to play a role.

The European Union is wanting its Global Gateway project to increase its influence globally involving trade while blocking much of China’s influence. Europe is NOT going to sit idly on the sidelines, but it has been moving slower than China on such infrastructure projects. The Chinese government (a socialist state governed by a communist party) has their practical long-term strategy to dominate the world according to many. Rush Doshi, who is currently serving as a China director at the National Security Council, argues that the impacts of Donald Trump’s presidency and the COVID-19 pandemic emboldened Beijing to enter a new phase beginning in 2016 to expand China’s order-building efforts more aggressively. The party leadership came to believe that it needed to seize the opportunity to push U.S. decline and encourage an American retreat from the world. This strategy includes efforts to undermine U.S. financial hegemony, become the global leader in advanced manufacturing and key emerging technologies, and field a world-class military capable of operating on a global scale. 8

The Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS), the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), as well as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), are all Gentile organizations. Our Lord Jesus Christ spoke concerning a final “occupation” of Jerusalem by the Gentiles – Luke 21:24; Revelation 11:2. And we are certainly witnessing the Gentile nations strengthening and strategizing their next move – involving trade.

Both Russia and Europe are part of the Belt and Road Initiative, and the extremely indebted United States of America is not. The Belt and Road Initiative also includes Syria – and Syria is only some 250 miles (398 km) from Tel Megiddo!

“Then the SIXTH ANGEL poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, so that the way of the kings from the east might be prepared. 13) And I saw THREE unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet” – Revelation 16:12-13.

Irrespective of the innumerable conspiracy theories and false prophet predictions, God’s living word shows us that there will come a time when “the kings from the east” – a massive Islamic army – will make its way to Tel Megiddo.

Indeed, the “dragon” is Satan the devil, the “beast” being a final end-time military leader of a future United States of Europe, and the “false prophet” being a great final religious leader of that Catholic European conglomerate.

“For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to battle of that great day of God Almighty” – Revelation 16:14. Speaking of the terrible Day of the LORD!

“’ Behold, I AM coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments [pure], lest he walk naked and they see his shame.’ 16) And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon” – Revelation 16:15-16.

The name Tel Megiddo, or rather Har Megiddo. “hill of Megiddo.” Megiddo is a place up north of Jerusalem – a gigantic plain. The name is used only once in God’s living word – “the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon.” For “the kings from the east” – refers to a collection of Islamic armies. And we believe that there’s a good chance – though we don’t know for sure – that this “200 million man army” is attempting to attack the European forces which have wiped out their Islamic brothers and cousins. This Silk Road project will certainly make this easier for them. We believe the majority of these armies will be ISLAMIC!

In our article “Is This ‘the Beginning of Sorrows’?” it should be noted: because of the $32 billion Anatolia Dam Project in southeastern Turkey, the great river Euphrates is nearly “dried up.”

Tel Megiddo is in the tiny nation of Israel. Syria borders Israel to the northeast. We are witnessing continuing steps for such an Islamic confederation to come to pass, as well as a way to get to Tel Megiddo (Armageddon).

Concluding Comments

Minister Michael C. Garrett wrote, under the inspiration of God’s Spirit:

“Lamentations 1:3 – “Judah has gone into captivity, Under affliction and hard servitude; She dwells among the nations, She finds no rest; All her persecutors overtake her in dire straits.” – now, this did take place in 605 B.C.! THIS WILL HAPPEN AGAIN! So, many prophecies are dual – they have an earlier fulfillment, and they have a much larger, more significant fulfillment in the latter days! And this will be one of those latter days fulfillments. Verse 12 – “Is it nothing to you, all you who pass by? Behold and see If there is any sorrow like my sorrow, Which has been brought on me, Which the LORD has inflicted In THE DAY OF HIS FIERCE ANGER.” – the Day of the Lord!

Chapter 2, Verse 1 – “How the Lord has covered the daughter of Zion With a cloud in His anger! He cast down from heaven to the earth The beauty of Israel, And did not remember His footstool IN THE DAY OF HIS ANGER.” – ‘In the day of His anger’ is the Day of the Lord! Verse 5 – “The Lord was like an enemy. He has swallowed up ISRAEL, … And has increased mourning and lamentation In the daughter of Judah.” Verse 21 – “’ Young and old lie On the ground in the streets; My virgins and my young men Have fallen by the sword; You have slain them in THE DAY OF YOUR ANGER, You have slaughtered and not pitied.’” – now, ‘pray not for this people’ is indeed a Message from the Bible.”

(Notes Regarding The Day of Atonement - Prophetically the Day of the Lord!).

Friends, a major change is prophesied – and it is coming – this world is about to get freight-trained! Let us all get our spiritual house in order NOW (Luke 21:34-36; Zephaniah 2:1-3).

With love and gratitude, in Jesus' Name,

List of works cited

1) Xinhua News agency, Indonesia raises alert on volcano eruptions, The Manila Times, 15, Jan. 2023.

2) USGS, Volcanic Hazards and Benefits, Retrieved 17 Jan. 2023.

3) Johnson, M., The grim reality of the brothels of Pompeii, The Conversation, 12 Dec. 2017. Retrieved 17 Jan. 2023.

4) W. O. Moeller, "The Riot of AD 59 at Pompeii," Historia, 1970, vol. 19, pp. 84–95.

5) Wikipedia, Pompeii, 29 Dec. 2022.

6) https://www.biblehub.com/romans/8-20.htm.

7) Shimpei, F., Backstories - Lifetime employment faces the axe, NHK World – Japan, 24 Jan. 2020. Retrieved 18 Jan. 2023.

8) Mattis, P., A THOROUGH EXPLANATION OF CHINA’S LONG-TERM STRATEGY, War On the Rocks, 17 Aug. 2021.

* Carrington, D., Humanity has wiped out 60% of animal populations since 1970, report finds, The Guardian, 29 Oct. 2018. Retrieved 19 Jan. 2023.