• NEW PODCAST ALERT

    In this episode, we’re talking with Kristen Miele, founder of Sex Ed Reclaimed and a passionate voice for healthy, faith-filled conversations around sexuality.

    Visit us online: www.sexedreclaimed.com

    #r2m #restored2more #family #resources #sexedreclaimed #ChristianParenting #FaithBasedSexEd #PodcastLaunch #HealthyConversations #EquipParents
    🎙️ NEW PODCAST ALERT 🚨 In this episode, we’re talking with Kristen Miele, founder of Sex Ed Reclaimed and a passionate voice for healthy, faith-filled conversations around sexuality. 💻 Visit us online: www.sexedreclaimed.com #r2m #restored2more #family #resources #sexedreclaimed #ChristianParenting #FaithBasedSexEd #PodcastLaunch #HealthyConversations #EquipParents
    Like
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  • NEW PODCAST ALERT

    In this episode, we’re talking with Kristen Miele, founder of Sex Ed Reclaimed and a passionate voice for healthy, faith-filled conversations around sexuality.

    Visit us online: www.sexedreclaimed.com

    #r2m #restored2more #family #resources #sexedreclaimed #ChristianParenting #FaithBasedSexEd #PodcastLaunch #HealthyConversations #EquipParents
    🎙️ NEW PODCAST ALERT 🚨 In this episode, we’re talking with Kristen Miele, founder of Sex Ed Reclaimed and a passionate voice for healthy, faith-filled conversations around sexuality. 💻 Visit us online: www.sexedreclaimed.com #r2m #restored2more #family #resources #sexedreclaimed #ChristianParenting #FaithBasedSexEd #PodcastLaunch #HealthyConversations #EquipParents
    Like
    2
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  • Daily Devotional.
    All to god's glory.

    “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31, NKJV).

    Read for This Week’s Study: 1 Corinthians 8; Acts 15:20; 1 Cor. 9:1–6; 1 Cor. 10:5–22; Deut. 6:4, 5; Mark 12:28–31.

    First Corinthians 8–10 brings the discussion on sexuality (in chapters 5–6) to a conclusion at the same time that it introduces Paul’s answers to specific questions asked through a letter (1 Cor. 7:1) from the Corinthians. These answers will dominate the remainder of 1 Corinthians.

    The transitional nature of 1 Corinthians 7 indicates that sexual immorality (chapters 5–7) and idolatry (chapters 8–10) are related topics. Indeed, they are often mentioned together in the New Testament (see Acts 15:20, 29; Acts 21:25; 1 Cor. 6:9; Eph. 5:5; Col. 3:5; Rev. 21:8; Rev. 22:15).

    In general, while in 1 Corinthians 5–7 Paul deals with the problem of sexual immorality, in 1 Corinthians 8–10 his main concern is the issue of idolatry. He states that Christians must flee from both (1 Cor. 6:18, 1 Cor. 10:14).

    Last week, we saw that by being a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19, 20), one can flee from sexual immorality. This week, we will see that one can flee from idolatry by doing “all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31, NKJV).
    Daily Devotional. All to god's glory. “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31, NKJV). Read for This Week’s Study: 1 Corinthians 8; Acts 15:20; 1 Cor. 9:1–6; 1 Cor. 10:5–22; Deut. 6:4, 5; Mark 12:28–31. First Corinthians 8–10 brings the discussion on sexuality (in chapters 5–6) to a conclusion at the same time that it introduces Paul’s answers to specific questions asked through a letter (1 Cor. 7:1) from the Corinthians. These answers will dominate the remainder of 1 Corinthians. The transitional nature of 1 Corinthians 7 indicates that sexual immorality (chapters 5–7) and idolatry (chapters 8–10) are related topics. Indeed, they are often mentioned together in the New Testament (see Acts 15:20, 29; Acts 21:25; 1 Cor. 6:9; Eph. 5:5; Col. 3:5; Rev. 21:8; Rev. 22:15). In general, while in 1 Corinthians 5–7 Paul deals with the problem of sexual immorality, in 1 Corinthians 8–10 his main concern is the issue of idolatry. He states that Christians must flee from both (1 Cor. 6:18, 1 Cor. 10:14). Last week, we saw that by being a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19, 20), one can flee from sexual immorality. This week, we will see that one can flee from idolatry by doing “all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31, NKJV).
    0 Commentarios 0 Acciones 10 Views
  • Podcast:
    Let’s Talk to Our Kids (her sacred sexuality)

    An extremely real conversation to help us discuss an important topic with our kids. Kristen does not shy away from the truth and challenges us to more.

    Tune in now: www.sexedreclaimed.com/podcasts

    #sexedreclaimed #onlineschool #onlinecurriculum #kristenmiele #biblicalschool #biblebasedteaching #HealthyConversations #BiblicalWisdom #ResearchDriven #Homeschool #thebirdsandthebees #sexed #parenting
    🎙️ Podcast: Let’s Talk to Our Kids (her sacred sexuality) 💬 An extremely real conversation to help us discuss an important topic with our kids. Kristen does not shy away from the truth and challenges us to more. 💻 Tune in now: www.sexedreclaimed.com/podcasts #sexedreclaimed #onlineschool #onlinecurriculum #kristenmiele #biblicalschool #biblebasedteaching #HealthyConversations #BiblicalWisdom #ResearchDriven #Homeschool #thebirdsandthebees #sexed #parenting
    Like
    1
    0 Commentarios 0 Acciones 312 Views
  • EVIDENCE OF OCCULT OPPRESSION AND SUBJECTION. Part 1 of 3
    We must distinguish between general oppression and occult oppression and subjection. The symptoms may be similar in many respects, but in several important aspects they are not. The marks of occult involvement are easily distinguished to one experienced in this particular area of deliverance.

    As a result of failing to distinguish between occult oppression and general demonic oppression issuing from other causes, many who have had prayer for deliverance have not been permanently set free. As we will show, those who have been involved in occultism have opened a "door" of access to oppressing spirits which they themselves must close by positive action and faith on their part. Moreover, liberation from occult oppression or subjection requires proper understanding of its peculiar nature and cause, the specific method of deliverance required, and the spiritual responsibilities of the one who has received deliverance from occult oppression.

    General oppression, whether mental, physical, or spiritual, may result from any one of several causes. For example, it may result from some traumatic experience, sin, weakness, emotional crisis, resentment, hate, pride, fear, or illness. Occult oppression and subjection, however, always result from an individual's involvement in some form of fortunetelling, magic practice, spiritism, or false religious cult, either as practitioner, or, as is most often the case, as subject, follower, or participant.

    Moreover, experience has shown that it is possible for a person to be "passively" subjected or oppressed, even though he has never actively participated in the occult. The Biblical basis for this fact is Exodus 20:3-6: God's "curse" falls upon "the children unto the third and fourth generation" of those who violate His commandment by calling upon other gods (demonic spirits and powers), which they do through involvement in the occult, for the purpose of breaking through the bounds which God has set for man.

    The magnitude of the sin of occult involvement, which is an abomination to God (Deuteronomy 18:12), is confirmed by its deep power of enslavement, not only upon the participants themselves, but even upon their descendants. The reality of such passive oppression and subjection has been shown in the preceding study.

    Both from Scripture and from experience it is evident that evil spirits who oppress human victims are of various kinds, and work in a variety of ways. There are blind spirits, deaf spirits, epileptic spirits, deceiving spirits, and lying spirits; spirits of pride, intellectualism, lust, infirmity, insanity, homosexuality, suicide, fear, apathy, anger, discord, strife, hate, resentment, depression, stubbornness, misunderstanding, gossip, obscenity, and many others. Oppression may be subjective, such as insanity, lust, or loss of health through disease and affliction; or objective, in which case the victim may be plagued by demonic apparitions and voices, or troubled by discord and strife through vexation by evil spirits.

    These malevolent spirits are definite personalities, not mere habits, diseases, psychological conditions, or states of mind. Just as human beings vary in personality, power, ability, appetites, intelligence, and purpose, so do the demonic spirits. Their primary intention, as disembodied spirits, is to oppress or possess a person appealing to their particular nature or appetites, in order to hide, as it were, behind these traits, habits, weaknesses, and mental or physical conditions, and thereby escape detection.

    An individual given to sexual looseness and excess, for instance, opens the door to demonic control in this particular area of his life by a spirit of lust with this characteristic appetite. The same would be true concerning a person who has a violent temper which he does not bring under control, or those who are given to pride, jealousy, hate, depression, gluttony, drug addiction, or any other weakness of character, mind or body. Demonic spirits seek to oppress those whose make-up, character, temperament, appetites, and moral, mental, or physical weaknesses are most harmonious to themselves. They bury themselves in the very structure of the person and actually identify with the personality of the victim insofar as possible.

    This is why it is difficult for the novice to discern, or the medical doctor, psychologist, and psychiatrist to admit, the reality and activity of demonic spirits in such victims. The latter reduce such diseases as epilepsy, cancer, blindness and deafness, as well as abnormal personality and behavior problems, to functional or organic disorders. Hence, the presence and activity of demonic spirits in their victims are often described by other terms such as: complexes, habits, drives, hallucinations, delusions, delirium tremens, insanity, epilepsy, melancholia, masochism, homosexuality, schizophrenia, mania, depression, psychoneurosis, psychosis, compulsions, drug addiction, disease, and so on. Not that the terms are entirely inaccurate, but in many cases they are inadequate. They do not go deep enough in identifying the conditions and phenomena connected with the work of the powers of darkness in the lives of the oppressed.

    Likewise, the parapsychologist describes the various manifestations of demonic powers by such terms as clairvoyance, telepathy, extrasensory perception, eidetic imagery, hypnotic suggestion, precognition, telesthesia, psychic phenomena, and so forth. He holds that such paranormal abilities and powers are merely manifestations and projections of the human subconscious or psyche, or that they can be explained in some other natural and rational manner as a rule.

    Thus, the presence and activity of such personal entities as demonic spirits are not easily perceptible to the analytical investigators of the paranormal, for the precise reason that Satan does not publicly announce his presence and work in an individual by handing out "calling cards"!

    However, growing numbers of psychologists, psychiatrists, and physicians are beginning to see and admit that they can no longer dismiss demonic oppression as mere religious delusion or pagan superstition. They are finding it to be a dreadful reality, and that there are definite limits beyond which medicine and psychiatry cannot penetrate to bring the necessary liberation to the suffering individual.

    In one instance, the church which a certain person pastored was contacted by a Christian psychologist asking for prayer for the deliverance of one of his patients. He recognized that the woman was bound and oppressed by Satan and that he was unable to help her with mere technical knowledge and skills. After the church prayed in faith for her liberation in the Name of Jesus, the psychologist reported that she had been set free. He was then able to counsel effectively with her, which he had been unable to do previously.

    Dr. William S. Reed, a well-known American surgeon, was reported to have said that he, as a surgeon, was convinced that many psychological and physical illnesses are the result of demonic attacks upon the individual; that on the basis of Mark 16:17, he himself used exorcism (casting out of evil spirits) when guided to do so; and that modern medicine and psychiatry should seriously consider the ministry of exorcism.

    Often the connections between occult involvement and the oppression which results are so subtle that people are completely unaware of the insidious relationship until it is pointed out. For instance, who would have connected the chronic physical illness of Mrs. L. with her visit to a fortune teller? Mr. R. did not believe that his playing with the ouija board had any adverse spiritual effects upon him until it was manifested in his inability to exercise faith to receive the Holy Spirit. For many years Mrs. T. was unaware that her persistent marital problems and apathy toward life began the day after her participation in a seance. And who would have seen the cause of the chronic phobias and doubts of another person who had been healed as an infant by an occult or magic healer?

    Mr. B. regularly visited fortune tellers, but did not realize until it was shown him that this accounted for an uncontrollable spirit of lust, from which he could not escape, and also explained his pride, indifference, immaturity, and hate. A brutal, demon possessed child, subject to periods of violent rage, was the result of the parents' participation in the occult, but this was unknown until counseling revealed the cause. Mrs. C. suffered from severe depression and thoughts of self destruction, little realizing that her participation in seances was the cause.

    Miss W. had been committed to a mental institution at one time, spent much money visiting doctors, psychologists, and psychiatrists, and had sought help and counseling from many sources concerning her psychotic condition, all to no avail. Little did she realize that it resulted from her past fortunetelling practices and other occult connections. Likewise, Mrs. G. was unaware that her visits to the fortune tellers were responsible for the "voices" she heard and demonic apparitions she saw, until this was shown her in counseling. Who would have seen a connection between the morbid depression and extreme negativism of Mr. V. and his visits to meetings of Spiritualists and other religious cults such as Theosophy and Rosicrucians, even though he only went out of curiosity?

    Homosexuality and fear of crowds were the result of another individual's involvement in the practice of table-tipping and consulting the ouija board as a child. The rapid mental and physical deterioration of another victim of occult oppression was traced to submission to hypnotism and treatment by "Concept Therapy." Mrs. D. found through counseling that her depression and lack of desire for spiritual things followed her visit to a fortune teller. Although he had prepared for the ministry, Mr. T. later fell back into the world, was divorced, and lost interest in Christianity. He was then surprised to learn that his troubles stemmed from his practice of self-hypnosis, astrology, and other occult interests.

    The removal of warts by magic charming and involvement in other magic practices has resulted in alcoholism, oppression by sex spirits, and other forms of demonic oppression in some cases. The parents' participation in occult practices resulted in a young man and a young woman being oppressed by demonic apparitions and vexed with other problems. Palm reading was the cause of one woman's serious domestic problems, and another's oppression in which she heard voices and saw a ghostly apparition.

    Water dowsing explained the resistance of one man to the Scriptural teaching concerning the Holy Spirit. It was also the cause of another's vexation with a serious problem over which he could not achieve victory, and resulted in insanity to still another who practiced this ancient heathen method of divining. Playing with the ouija board and visits to fortunetellers led Mrs. F. to attempt suicide. The consequence of having a burn "blown" away by magic charming was severe depression for Mrs. R. The relation between the mental illness of Mrs. A. and her practice of table-tipping as a child seemed remote until she experienced immediate liberation upon confessing this occult sin and receiving prayer for deliverance.

    Another, who could have no assurance of salvation, due to oppression by a deceiving spirit, was delivered when she was shown the connection between her mental suffering and a healing she had received from a psychometric healer who diagnosed her illness by touch. Chronic asthma was the consequence of involvement in magical practices, from which a sufferer was set free upon learning of the cause. Liberation from severe mental, physical, and spiritual oppression came to another who fell victim to the insidious powers of darkness after visits to Spiritualists' meetings, while another was set free from psychic subjection which resulted from occult practices, when shown the source and nature of her extrasensory powers.

    The examples from this certain pastor’s files could be multiplied, for there are few families in which at least one member has not had contact with occult spirits in one form or another, with its resultant oppression or subjection. Although few people are aware of the various forms in which occult oppression and subjection express themselves, there is no doubt that occult involvement always results in bondage. This conclusion is based on a pastor’s experiences in deliverance. First he had established the connection between the occult involvement and the bondage, then the oppressed individual confessed his occult sins and commanded Satan to depart. The result is always the same: the person is delivered. In instances where the individual was also psychically subjected (having extrasensory powers, seeing apparitions, hearing spirit voices, and so on), these experiences have immediately ceased, thereby proving their occult source.

    A distinction should be made between "subjection" and "oppression" resulting from occult involvement. Subjection means that malevolent spirits have brought the victim under the domination and control of the powers of darkness. The victim has been made subject to, or enslaved by, such things as sexual lust, violent temper, drugs, uncontrollable thoughts, resistance to divine things, compulsive behavior, lying, hate, religious delusions, self-pity, or forms of occultism. A person thus subjected often becomes psychic himself, and is so enslaved by occultism that he lacks the will, and sometimes even the desire, to be set free.

    Oppression resulting from occult involvement means that the victim has been afflicted with some form of mental, physical, emotional, or psychic ailment or distress such as depression, fear, mental illness, disease, pain, apathy, marital discord, compulsive thoughts of suicide, apparitions, and so forth.

    The characteristics listed in the rest of this study are evidences of occult subjection and oppression. Some of these symptoms may result from other causes, but the existence of any of these manifestations usually indicates the presence and activity of demonic spirits, as well as the need for deliverance.

    Occult subjection and oppression may be classified for clarification into five categories: Mental and Emotional; Psychic; Spiritual; Physical; Material, Domestic, and Social.

    A. Mental and Emotional Disturbances and Abnormalities.
    Contrary to common wisdom, many psychoneuroses, psychoses, and other mental and emotional abnormalities result, not from functional or organic causes, but from occult involvement. Some of the following symptoms could be classified as "psychic" disturbances or abnormalities in character; however, we will purposely be limiting our later discussion of "psychic" subjection and oppression to the strict parapsychological sense of the term, namely, to extrasensory functioning, such as clairvoyance, telepathy, and precognition, and to such psychic phenomena as apparitions or poltergeist activity. Note further that "mental and emotional" does not necessarily imply "inward," but many of the following mental and emotional disturbances and abnormalities will also affect the outward behavior of the oppressed individual.

    1. Psychoses indicative of occult oppression or subjection.
    Symptoms in this category include serious, prolonged depression or melancholia; resignation to failure or misfortune; habitual gloominess, morbidity and negativism, boredom and indifference (ennui), as well as apathy in general.

    Persons thus afflicted are often more interested in their own inward thoughts than in what goes on around them, and may respond in an abnormal, dull manner to others and to reality. They manifest extreme introversion; that is, they live within themselves and take no interest in their surroundings. At times they shun others, withdrawing and spending long periods of time alone, sometimes in a darkened room with the shades drawn, in a morose state of mind. Excessive weeping may also accompany this condition, as well as self-accusation of sins, frequently with thoughts of self-destruction. Such individuals often lack normal emotional response and contact with reality. They live in a private world where little affects them except their own fantasies and dreams.

    In some oppressed persons, this state of depression alternates with a directly opposite mood of extreme joy, happiness, exhilaration, and optimistic outlook. This mental disorder, known as manic-depressive psychosis, is characterized by extreme, sudden changes in mood, fluctuating up and down, often without warning.

    Delusions, so-called hallucinations, and psychic oppression are frequently present in victims of occult involvement who have become psychotic. There may be compulsive thoughts of violence and aggression, and destructive emotions of hate, rage, resentment, jealousy, suspicion, envy, malice, and other antisocial abnormalities. Great excitement and perturbation over trivial matters, and other indications of mania are often seen, as well as unpredictable impulses, moods, actions, and other psychopathic indications of insanity.

    There is often found in such persons a continual "flight of ideas." The individual goes off on one tangent or another, often without completing a thought, and there is a general incoherence of thoughts and ideas. Generally, they are irresponsible, unpredictable, and undependable. Unreasonable attitudes or demands are characteristic of demonic activity in such persons.

    As a result of occult involvement, some individuals are in subjection to extreme and uncontrollable passions and appetites. Vile language, sexual allusions or displays are common, together with inexplicable character or personality changes toward moral degeneracy. There may be found such sexual aberrations as homosexuality, masochism, self-abuse, promiscuity, sadism, abnormal sexuality, uncontrollable lustful thoughts and images, and suggestive behavior and dress.

    The presence and activity of demonic powers is also indicated by enslavement to evil habits such as drug addiction, gluttony (compulsive eating), addiction to alcohol or tobacco, compulsive gambling, and many other forms of excess and intemperance.

    2. Psychoneuroses indicative of occult oppression and subjection.
    A neurotic person exhibits symptoms such as persistent, chronic fear or dread. Generally, there is a morbid anxiety that something dreadful is about to happen, or that one has not done something he ought to have done, or has done something that he should not have done, and so on. There are often feelings of apprehension, consternation, panic and hysteria, or evidence of strong nervous tension. The individual often works and lives at a frenzied pace, frequently suffering insomnia and extreme restlessness. Other abnormalities seen in neurotics include difficulty in making decisions, inability to adjust normally to certain situations, and the need of constant guidance and reassurance by others because of personal feelings of inadequacy and immaturity, or the fear of failure. Extreme hypersensitivity, irritability, and impatience are common. The individual is often ill-humored, argumentative, defiant, negative, always "on the defensive," and highly critical of others in an effort to justify his own deep feelings of inadequacy.

    The most pathetic and difficult forms of neurotic oppression to deal with are the deep-rooted feelings of self-pity and the abnormal desire for attention found in some individuals. They dread being alone for any length of time and have need of constant companionship and conversation. They often feel mistreated, misunderstood, misrepresented, and disliked by others. Frequently, they develop some psychosomatic ailment or disease as a result of the subconscious desire for attention, in order to find escape through sickness from the problems and perplexities of life. Such persons, called "hypochondriacs," seek to control and manipulate others by the shrewd use of their illness. Their households and families are forced to adjust to their abnormal life and whims, sacrificing everything for their personal comfort. Edited. Shared.
    To be Continued.

    God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.
    ❤️EVIDENCE OF OCCULT OPPRESSION AND SUBJECTION. Part 1 of 3 We must distinguish between general oppression and occult oppression and subjection. The symptoms may be similar in many respects, but in several important aspects they are not. The marks of occult involvement are easily distinguished to one experienced in this particular area of deliverance. As a result of failing to distinguish between occult oppression and general demonic oppression issuing from other causes, many who have had prayer for deliverance have not been permanently set free. As we will show, those who have been involved in occultism have opened a "door" of access to oppressing spirits which they themselves must close by positive action and faith on their part. Moreover, liberation from occult oppression or subjection requires proper understanding of its peculiar nature and cause, the specific method of deliverance required, and the spiritual responsibilities of the one who has received deliverance from occult oppression. General oppression, whether mental, physical, or spiritual, may result from any one of several causes. For example, it may result from some traumatic experience, sin, weakness, emotional crisis, resentment, hate, pride, fear, or illness. Occult oppression and subjection, however, always result from an individual's involvement in some form of fortunetelling, magic practice, spiritism, or false religious cult, either as practitioner, or, as is most often the case, as subject, follower, or participant. Moreover, experience has shown that it is possible for a person to be "passively" subjected or oppressed, even though he has never actively participated in the occult. The Biblical basis for this fact is Exodus 20:3-6: God's "curse" falls upon "the children unto the third and fourth generation" of those who violate His commandment by calling upon other gods (demonic spirits and powers), which they do through involvement in the occult, for the purpose of breaking through the bounds which God has set for man. The magnitude of the sin of occult involvement, which is an abomination to God (Deuteronomy 18:12), is confirmed by its deep power of enslavement, not only upon the participants themselves, but even upon their descendants. The reality of such passive oppression and subjection has been shown in the preceding study. Both from Scripture and from experience it is evident that evil spirits who oppress human victims are of various kinds, and work in a variety of ways. There are blind spirits, deaf spirits, epileptic spirits, deceiving spirits, and lying spirits; spirits of pride, intellectualism, lust, infirmity, insanity, homosexuality, suicide, fear, apathy, anger, discord, strife, hate, resentment, depression, stubbornness, misunderstanding, gossip, obscenity, and many others. Oppression may be subjective, such as insanity, lust, or loss of health through disease and affliction; or objective, in which case the victim may be plagued by demonic apparitions and voices, or troubled by discord and strife through vexation by evil spirits. These malevolent spirits are definite personalities, not mere habits, diseases, psychological conditions, or states of mind. Just as human beings vary in personality, power, ability, appetites, intelligence, and purpose, so do the demonic spirits. Their primary intention, as disembodied spirits, is to oppress or possess a person appealing to their particular nature or appetites, in order to hide, as it were, behind these traits, habits, weaknesses, and mental or physical conditions, and thereby escape detection. An individual given to sexual looseness and excess, for instance, opens the door to demonic control in this particular area of his life by a spirit of lust with this characteristic appetite. The same would be true concerning a person who has a violent temper which he does not bring under control, or those who are given to pride, jealousy, hate, depression, gluttony, drug addiction, or any other weakness of character, mind or body. Demonic spirits seek to oppress those whose make-up, character, temperament, appetites, and moral, mental, or physical weaknesses are most harmonious to themselves. They bury themselves in the very structure of the person and actually identify with the personality of the victim insofar as possible. This is why it is difficult for the novice to discern, or the medical doctor, psychologist, and psychiatrist to admit, the reality and activity of demonic spirits in such victims. The latter reduce such diseases as epilepsy, cancer, blindness and deafness, as well as abnormal personality and behavior problems, to functional or organic disorders. Hence, the presence and activity of demonic spirits in their victims are often described by other terms such as: complexes, habits, drives, hallucinations, delusions, delirium tremens, insanity, epilepsy, melancholia, masochism, homosexuality, schizophrenia, mania, depression, psychoneurosis, psychosis, compulsions, drug addiction, disease, and so on. Not that the terms are entirely inaccurate, but in many cases they are inadequate. They do not go deep enough in identifying the conditions and phenomena connected with the work of the powers of darkness in the lives of the oppressed. Likewise, the parapsychologist describes the various manifestations of demonic powers by such terms as clairvoyance, telepathy, extrasensory perception, eidetic imagery, hypnotic suggestion, precognition, telesthesia, psychic phenomena, and so forth. He holds that such paranormal abilities and powers are merely manifestations and projections of the human subconscious or psyche, or that they can be explained in some other natural and rational manner as a rule. Thus, the presence and activity of such personal entities as demonic spirits are not easily perceptible to the analytical investigators of the paranormal, for the precise reason that Satan does not publicly announce his presence and work in an individual by handing out "calling cards"! However, growing numbers of psychologists, psychiatrists, and physicians are beginning to see and admit that they can no longer dismiss demonic oppression as mere religious delusion or pagan superstition. They are finding it to be a dreadful reality, and that there are definite limits beyond which medicine and psychiatry cannot penetrate to bring the necessary liberation to the suffering individual. In one instance, the church which a certain person pastored was contacted by a Christian psychologist asking for prayer for the deliverance of one of his patients. He recognized that the woman was bound and oppressed by Satan and that he was unable to help her with mere technical knowledge and skills. After the church prayed in faith for her liberation in the Name of Jesus, the psychologist reported that she had been set free. He was then able to counsel effectively with her, which he had been unable to do previously. Dr. William S. Reed, a well-known American surgeon, was reported to have said that he, as a surgeon, was convinced that many psychological and physical illnesses are the result of demonic attacks upon the individual; that on the basis of Mark 16:17, he himself used exorcism (casting out of evil spirits) when guided to do so; and that modern medicine and psychiatry should seriously consider the ministry of exorcism. Often the connections between occult involvement and the oppression which results are so subtle that people are completely unaware of the insidious relationship until it is pointed out. For instance, who would have connected the chronic physical illness of Mrs. L. with her visit to a fortune teller? Mr. R. did not believe that his playing with the ouija board had any adverse spiritual effects upon him until it was manifested in his inability to exercise faith to receive the Holy Spirit. For many years Mrs. T. was unaware that her persistent marital problems and apathy toward life began the day after her participation in a seance. And who would have seen the cause of the chronic phobias and doubts of another person who had been healed as an infant by an occult or magic healer? Mr. B. regularly visited fortune tellers, but did not realize until it was shown him that this accounted for an uncontrollable spirit of lust, from which he could not escape, and also explained his pride, indifference, immaturity, and hate. A brutal, demon possessed child, subject to periods of violent rage, was the result of the parents' participation in the occult, but this was unknown until counseling revealed the cause. Mrs. C. suffered from severe depression and thoughts of self destruction, little realizing that her participation in seances was the cause. Miss W. had been committed to a mental institution at one time, spent much money visiting doctors, psychologists, and psychiatrists, and had sought help and counseling from many sources concerning her psychotic condition, all to no avail. Little did she realize that it resulted from her past fortunetelling practices and other occult connections. Likewise, Mrs. G. was unaware that her visits to the fortune tellers were responsible for the "voices" she heard and demonic apparitions she saw, until this was shown her in counseling. Who would have seen a connection between the morbid depression and extreme negativism of Mr. V. and his visits to meetings of Spiritualists and other religious cults such as Theosophy and Rosicrucians, even though he only went out of curiosity? Homosexuality and fear of crowds were the result of another individual's involvement in the practice of table-tipping and consulting the ouija board as a child. The rapid mental and physical deterioration of another victim of occult oppression was traced to submission to hypnotism and treatment by "Concept Therapy." Mrs. D. found through counseling that her depression and lack of desire for spiritual things followed her visit to a fortune teller. Although he had prepared for the ministry, Mr. T. later fell back into the world, was divorced, and lost interest in Christianity. He was then surprised to learn that his troubles stemmed from his practice of self-hypnosis, astrology, and other occult interests. The removal of warts by magic charming and involvement in other magic practices has resulted in alcoholism, oppression by sex spirits, and other forms of demonic oppression in some cases. The parents' participation in occult practices resulted in a young man and a young woman being oppressed by demonic apparitions and vexed with other problems. Palm reading was the cause of one woman's serious domestic problems, and another's oppression in which she heard voices and saw a ghostly apparition. Water dowsing explained the resistance of one man to the Scriptural teaching concerning the Holy Spirit. It was also the cause of another's vexation with a serious problem over which he could not achieve victory, and resulted in insanity to still another who practiced this ancient heathen method of divining. Playing with the ouija board and visits to fortunetellers led Mrs. F. to attempt suicide. The consequence of having a burn "blown" away by magic charming was severe depression for Mrs. R. The relation between the mental illness of Mrs. A. and her practice of table-tipping as a child seemed remote until she experienced immediate liberation upon confessing this occult sin and receiving prayer for deliverance. Another, who could have no assurance of salvation, due to oppression by a deceiving spirit, was delivered when she was shown the connection between her mental suffering and a healing she had received from a psychometric healer who diagnosed her illness by touch. Chronic asthma was the consequence of involvement in magical practices, from which a sufferer was set free upon learning of the cause. Liberation from severe mental, physical, and spiritual oppression came to another who fell victim to the insidious powers of darkness after visits to Spiritualists' meetings, while another was set free from psychic subjection which resulted from occult practices, when shown the source and nature of her extrasensory powers. The examples from this certain pastor’s files could be multiplied, for there are few families in which at least one member has not had contact with occult spirits in one form or another, with its resultant oppression or subjection. Although few people are aware of the various forms in which occult oppression and subjection express themselves, there is no doubt that occult involvement always results in bondage. This conclusion is based on a pastor’s experiences in deliverance. First he had established the connection between the occult involvement and the bondage, then the oppressed individual confessed his occult sins and commanded Satan to depart. The result is always the same: the person is delivered. In instances where the individual was also psychically subjected (having extrasensory powers, seeing apparitions, hearing spirit voices, and so on), these experiences have immediately ceased, thereby proving their occult source. A distinction should be made between "subjection" and "oppression" resulting from occult involvement. Subjection means that malevolent spirits have brought the victim under the domination and control of the powers of darkness. The victim has been made subject to, or enslaved by, such things as sexual lust, violent temper, drugs, uncontrollable thoughts, resistance to divine things, compulsive behavior, lying, hate, religious delusions, self-pity, or forms of occultism. A person thus subjected often becomes psychic himself, and is so enslaved by occultism that he lacks the will, and sometimes even the desire, to be set free. Oppression resulting from occult involvement means that the victim has been afflicted with some form of mental, physical, emotional, or psychic ailment or distress such as depression, fear, mental illness, disease, pain, apathy, marital discord, compulsive thoughts of suicide, apparitions, and so forth. The characteristics listed in the rest of this study are evidences of occult subjection and oppression. Some of these symptoms may result from other causes, but the existence of any of these manifestations usually indicates the presence and activity of demonic spirits, as well as the need for deliverance. Occult subjection and oppression may be classified for clarification into five categories: Mental and Emotional; Psychic; Spiritual; Physical; Material, Domestic, and Social. A. Mental and Emotional Disturbances and Abnormalities. Contrary to common wisdom, many psychoneuroses, psychoses, and other mental and emotional abnormalities result, not from functional or organic causes, but from occult involvement. Some of the following symptoms could be classified as "psychic" disturbances or abnormalities in character; however, we will purposely be limiting our later discussion of "psychic" subjection and oppression to the strict parapsychological sense of the term, namely, to extrasensory functioning, such as clairvoyance, telepathy, and precognition, and to such psychic phenomena as apparitions or poltergeist activity. Note further that "mental and emotional" does not necessarily imply "inward," but many of the following mental and emotional disturbances and abnormalities will also affect the outward behavior of the oppressed individual. 1. Psychoses indicative of occult oppression or subjection. Symptoms in this category include serious, prolonged depression or melancholia; resignation to failure or misfortune; habitual gloominess, morbidity and negativism, boredom and indifference (ennui), as well as apathy in general. Persons thus afflicted are often more interested in their own inward thoughts than in what goes on around them, and may respond in an abnormal, dull manner to others and to reality. They manifest extreme introversion; that is, they live within themselves and take no interest in their surroundings. At times they shun others, withdrawing and spending long periods of time alone, sometimes in a darkened room with the shades drawn, in a morose state of mind. Excessive weeping may also accompany this condition, as well as self-accusation of sins, frequently with thoughts of self-destruction. Such individuals often lack normal emotional response and contact with reality. They live in a private world where little affects them except their own fantasies and dreams. In some oppressed persons, this state of depression alternates with a directly opposite mood of extreme joy, happiness, exhilaration, and optimistic outlook. This mental disorder, known as manic-depressive psychosis, is characterized by extreme, sudden changes in mood, fluctuating up and down, often without warning. Delusions, so-called hallucinations, and psychic oppression are frequently present in victims of occult involvement who have become psychotic. There may be compulsive thoughts of violence and aggression, and destructive emotions of hate, rage, resentment, jealousy, suspicion, envy, malice, and other antisocial abnormalities. Great excitement and perturbation over trivial matters, and other indications of mania are often seen, as well as unpredictable impulses, moods, actions, and other psychopathic indications of insanity. There is often found in such persons a continual "flight of ideas." The individual goes off on one tangent or another, often without completing a thought, and there is a general incoherence of thoughts and ideas. Generally, they are irresponsible, unpredictable, and undependable. Unreasonable attitudes or demands are characteristic of demonic activity in such persons. As a result of occult involvement, some individuals are in subjection to extreme and uncontrollable passions and appetites. Vile language, sexual allusions or displays are common, together with inexplicable character or personality changes toward moral degeneracy. There may be found such sexual aberrations as homosexuality, masochism, self-abuse, promiscuity, sadism, abnormal sexuality, uncontrollable lustful thoughts and images, and suggestive behavior and dress. The presence and activity of demonic powers is also indicated by enslavement to evil habits such as drug addiction, gluttony (compulsive eating), addiction to alcohol or tobacco, compulsive gambling, and many other forms of excess and intemperance. 2. Psychoneuroses indicative of occult oppression and subjection. A neurotic person exhibits symptoms such as persistent, chronic fear or dread. Generally, there is a morbid anxiety that something dreadful is about to happen, or that one has not done something he ought to have done, or has done something that he should not have done, and so on. There are often feelings of apprehension, consternation, panic and hysteria, or evidence of strong nervous tension. The individual often works and lives at a frenzied pace, frequently suffering insomnia and extreme restlessness. Other abnormalities seen in neurotics include difficulty in making decisions, inability to adjust normally to certain situations, and the need of constant guidance and reassurance by others because of personal feelings of inadequacy and immaturity, or the fear of failure. Extreme hypersensitivity, irritability, and impatience are common. The individual is often ill-humored, argumentative, defiant, negative, always "on the defensive," and highly critical of others in an effort to justify his own deep feelings of inadequacy. The most pathetic and difficult forms of neurotic oppression to deal with are the deep-rooted feelings of self-pity and the abnormal desire for attention found in some individuals. They dread being alone for any length of time and have need of constant companionship and conversation. They often feel mistreated, misunderstood, misrepresented, and disliked by others. Frequently, they develop some psychosomatic ailment or disease as a result of the subconscious desire for attention, in order to find escape through sickness from the problems and perplexities of life. Such persons, called "hypochondriacs," seek to control and manipulate others by the shrewd use of their illness. Their households and families are forced to adjust to their abnormal life and whims, sacrificing everything for their personal comfort. Edited. Shared. To be Continued. ❤️ God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.
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  • NEW PODCAST ALERT

    In this episode, we’re talking with Kristen Miele, founder of Sex Ed Reclaimed and a passionate voice for healthy, faith-filled conversations around sexuality.

    Visit us online: www.sexedreclaimed.com

    #r2m #restored2more #family #resources #sexedreclaimed #ChristianParenting #FaithBasedSexEd #PodcastLaunch #HealthyConversations #EquipParents
    🎙️ NEW PODCAST ALERT 🚨 In this episode, we’re talking with Kristen Miele, founder of Sex Ed Reclaimed and a passionate voice for healthy, faith-filled conversations around sexuality. 💻 Visit us online: www.sexedreclaimed.com #r2m #restored2more #family #resources #sexedreclaimed #ChristianParenting #FaithBasedSexEd #PodcastLaunch #HealthyConversations #EquipParents
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  • A Nugget of Truth.
    12 Steps to Revival, That Will Open Your Eyes in These Last Days.

    In a world drifting further from God's truth, the Lord is calling His people back to genuine revival. Throughout Scripture, Elijah and John the Baptist stood as powerful messengers raised up to prepare hearts for God's work. Their lives reveal a pattern of faithfulness, courage, humility, and unwavering devotion that God desires to see again before Christ's return.

    The Bible teaches that the same spirit and power that rested upon Elijah and John will be manifested among God's people in the last days. Their messages were not merely for their generation—they are a prophetic blueprint for end-time revival. As you study these 12 characteristics, prayerfully consider how God may be calling you to participate in this final movement of spiritual awakening, reformation, and preparation for the soon coming of Jesus Christ.
    "And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias... to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." — Luke 1:17

    1. Bold and Fearless Preaching—Even Before Leaders

    Elijah—Elijah told Ahab, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim” (1 Kings 18:18).
    • John—“John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother’s wife” (Mark 6:18).

    Both John the Baptist and Elijah were fearless in preaching a straight message before rulers and governments. Jesus said this would happen again in the last days. “Ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them” (Mark 13:9). "

    2. Simple Diet and Lifestyle

    • Elijah—“Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand” (1 Kings 17:11).
    • John—“He did eat locusts and wild honey” (Mark 1:6).

    Both Elijah and John were known for their simple diets and wilderness living. These basic rigors kept their mental faculties clear and their bodies strong, that they might be prepared for the special work God called them to do. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Likewise, the church in the last days must be revived to the truth that there is a strong connection between the body and the spirit. What we eat and drink, as well as our personal living habits, has a direct effect on our mental clarity and ability to discern truth.

    3. Modest Dress, Simple Clothing

    • Elijah—“He was an hairy man [with a garment of hair], and girt with a girdle [belt] of leather about his loins [waist]” (2 Kings 1:8).
    • John—“And John was clothed with camel’s hair, and with a girdle of a skin [leather belt] about his loins [waist]” (Mark 1:6).

    In a time when kings and priests loved to wear ornaments and long, flowing robes, Elijah and John’s modesty and simplicity were a stinging rebuke. We live in an age where there has never been more arrogant attention given to flamboyance and fashion. The main goal of modern clothing designers is to highlight a person’s sexuality. Sadly, everything from body piercing to tattoos is being indulged even among professed Christians. Once again, the church desperately needs last-day Elijahs to witness for Christ by their example of humility and simplicity through modest clothing and appearance.

    4. Discipling Others

    • Elijah—“So he departed thence, and found Elisha … and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him” (1 Kings 19:19).
    • John—“And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things” (Luke 7:18).

    The Scriptures record that Elijah not only discipled Elisha, but he also visited the schools of the prophets (also translated “the disciples of the prophets”), which were scattered all through the land of Israel (2 Kings 2). These training centers combined spiritual instruction with practical work skills, and the young men trained there went throughout Israel to teach others the ways of God. John, likewise, reproduced his faith by teaching the disciples who followed him. Both John and Elijah spent most of their time training not the priests and Levites, but rather the common people. Similarly, the last great movement of God will not be led by clergy alone, but also by Spirit-filled laypersons. This is why the Elijah message must give attention to training, discipling, and mobilizing every member of God’s church.

    5. Preaching Baptism of Repentance and Death to Self.

    • Elijah—“And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the Lord hath sent me to Jordan” (2 Kings 2:6).
    • John—“Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins” (Matthew 3:5, 6).

    One identifying mark of the Elijah message is that it calls people to the Jordan River—a symbol of repentance and baptism. The children of Israel had to cross the Jordan to enter the Promised Land, just as we enter the waters of baptism and cross over to a new life. The great commission of Jesus to the church will have its finest hour in the future, when once again modern Elijahs will baptize converts to Christ in explosive, Pentecostal-like numbers. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19)."

    6. Manifested Humility.

    • Elijah—“And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he cast himself down upon the earth, and put his face between his knees” (1 Kings 18:42).
    • John—“He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear” (Matthew 3:11).

    Before Jesus comes again, the people of God will have learned to reflect the meek and humble character of Jesus in an age of arrogance and pride. “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8)."

    7. Endure Religious Persecution.

    • Elijah—“Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them [who had been killed] by to morrow about this time” (1 Kings 19:2).
    • John—“And she went forth, and said unto her mother [Herodias], What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist” (Mark 6:24).

    In the Old Testament, a pagan queen named Jezebel married Ahab, the king of Israel. Jezebel and her daughter, Athaliah, persecuted God’s people and tried to entice Ahab to kill Elijah and the other prophets. In the New Testament, Herodias, the pagan wife of king Herod, and her daughter Salome succeeded in enticing Herod to kill John the Baptist. The persecution experienced by Elijah and John will soon be repeated. In the last days, Revelation tells us the “Mother of harlots” and her daughters will persecute God’s remnant people, the last-day Elijahs. “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ” (Revelation 12:17).

    “And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus” (Revelation 17:5, 6)."

    8. Running Before the King.

    • Elijah—“And the hand of the Lord was on Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel” (1 Kings 18:46).
    • John—“As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias Isaiah Smith the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight” (Luke 3:4).

    When a monarch traveled in Bible times, servants often ran ahead to prepare the path for the approaching king. They cleared the road of rocks and obstacles, filled in potholes, cut down high spots, and straightened the crooked turns. In the same way, those preaching the Elijah message in the last days will help prepare people for the coming of our King Jesus. They will proclaim a message that makes the way of salvation clear, plain, and easy to understand.

    “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6)."

    9. Supreme Interest in Glorifying God

    • Elijah—“Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the Lord God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again” (1 Kings 18:37).
    • John—“He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30).

    Those preaching the Elijah message will make glorifying God their top priority. They will be wholly consecrated to God’s cause, just as were John and Elijah. They will be willing to make any sacrifice that others might be saved—in other words, to spend and be spent in the work of God.

    “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1)."

    10. Repairing God’s Altar.

    • Elijah—“And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down” (1 Kings 18:30).
    • John—“In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:1, 2).

    The Elijah message will be a trumpet call to return to “the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 1:3). Today, when so many are telling us that the teachings of the Bible are old-fashioned and need to be revised to better fit the times, we desperately need to be reminded that God said, “For I am the Lord, I change not” (Malachi 3:6).

    “And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in” (Isaiah 58:12)."

    11. Messages Spark Reformation.

    • Elijah—“Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel. … And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him” (1 Kings 18:19–21).
    • John—“John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. And there went out unto him all the land of Judea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins” (Mark 1:4, 5).

    In the days of Elijah and John the Baptist, God’s people had been corrupted by the pagan influences around them and had compromised God’s truth (1 Kings 19:14; Matthew 3:1, 2). These two brave prophets delivered a message that sparked revival and reform among God’s people. Today, once again, it seems that much of Christianity is lukewarm and worldly. If judgment is going to begin at God’s house (Ezekiel 9:6; 1 Peter 4:17), then certainly the revival must start there too! Since God’s plan is for His people to reach the entire world, He must first send the Elijah message to reach the church."

    12. Point People to Christ.

    • Elijah—“Elijah the prophet came near, and said, Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God” (1 Kings 18:36).
    • John—“The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).

    The burning desire of modern Elijahs will be to turn people to Jesus, that they might know Him and have everlasting life.
    A Nugget of Truth. 12 Steps to Revival, That Will Open Your Eyes in These Last Days. In a world drifting further from God's truth, the Lord is calling His people back to genuine revival. Throughout Scripture, Elijah and John the Baptist stood as powerful messengers raised up to prepare hearts for God's work. Their lives reveal a pattern of faithfulness, courage, humility, and unwavering devotion that God desires to see again before Christ's return. The Bible teaches that the same spirit and power that rested upon Elijah and John will be manifested among God's people in the last days. Their messages were not merely for their generation—they are a prophetic blueprint for end-time revival. As you study these 12 characteristics, prayerfully consider how God may be calling you to participate in this final movement of spiritual awakening, reformation, and preparation for the soon coming of Jesus Christ. "And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias... to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." — Luke 1:17 1. Bold and Fearless Preaching—Even Before Leaders Elijah—Elijah told Ahab, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim” (1 Kings 18:18). • John—“John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother’s wife” (Mark 6:18). Both John the Baptist and Elijah were fearless in preaching a straight message before rulers and governments. Jesus said this would happen again in the last days. “Ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them” (Mark 13:9). " 2. Simple Diet and Lifestyle • Elijah—“Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand” (1 Kings 17:11). • John—“He did eat locusts and wild honey” (Mark 1:6). Both Elijah and John were known for their simple diets and wilderness living. These basic rigors kept their mental faculties clear and their bodies strong, that they might be prepared for the special work God called them to do. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Likewise, the church in the last days must be revived to the truth that there is a strong connection between the body and the spirit. What we eat and drink, as well as our personal living habits, has a direct effect on our mental clarity and ability to discern truth. 3. Modest Dress, Simple Clothing • Elijah—“He was an hairy man [with a garment of hair], and girt with a girdle [belt] of leather about his loins [waist]” (2 Kings 1:8). • John—“And John was clothed with camel’s hair, and with a girdle of a skin [leather belt] about his loins [waist]” (Mark 1:6). In a time when kings and priests loved to wear ornaments and long, flowing robes, Elijah and John’s modesty and simplicity were a stinging rebuke. We live in an age where there has never been more arrogant attention given to flamboyance and fashion. The main goal of modern clothing designers is to highlight a person’s sexuality. Sadly, everything from body piercing to tattoos is being indulged even among professed Christians. Once again, the church desperately needs last-day Elijahs to witness for Christ by their example of humility and simplicity through modest clothing and appearance. 4. Discipling Others • Elijah—“So he departed thence, and found Elisha … and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him” (1 Kings 19:19). • John—“And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things” (Luke 7:18). The Scriptures record that Elijah not only discipled Elisha, but he also visited the schools of the prophets (also translated “the disciples of the prophets”), which were scattered all through the land of Israel (2 Kings 2). These training centers combined spiritual instruction with practical work skills, and the young men trained there went throughout Israel to teach others the ways of God. John, likewise, reproduced his faith by teaching the disciples who followed him. Both John and Elijah spent most of their time training not the priests and Levites, but rather the common people. Similarly, the last great movement of God will not be led by clergy alone, but also by Spirit-filled laypersons. This is why the Elijah message must give attention to training, discipling, and mobilizing every member of God’s church. 5. Preaching Baptism of Repentance and Death to Self. • Elijah—“And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the Lord hath sent me to Jordan” (2 Kings 2:6). • John—“Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins” (Matthew 3:5, 6). One identifying mark of the Elijah message is that it calls people to the Jordan River—a symbol of repentance and baptism. The children of Israel had to cross the Jordan to enter the Promised Land, just as we enter the waters of baptism and cross over to a new life. The great commission of Jesus to the church will have its finest hour in the future, when once again modern Elijahs will baptize converts to Christ in explosive, Pentecostal-like numbers. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19)." 6. Manifested Humility. • Elijah—“And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he cast himself down upon the earth, and put his face between his knees” (1 Kings 18:42). • John—“He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear” (Matthew 3:11). Before Jesus comes again, the people of God will have learned to reflect the meek and humble character of Jesus in an age of arrogance and pride. “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8)." 7. Endure Religious Persecution. • Elijah—“Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them [who had been killed] by to morrow about this time” (1 Kings 19:2). • John—“And she went forth, and said unto her mother [Herodias], What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist” (Mark 6:24). In the Old Testament, a pagan queen named Jezebel married Ahab, the king of Israel. Jezebel and her daughter, Athaliah, persecuted God’s people and tried to entice Ahab to kill Elijah and the other prophets. In the New Testament, Herodias, the pagan wife of king Herod, and her daughter Salome succeeded in enticing Herod to kill John the Baptist. The persecution experienced by Elijah and John will soon be repeated. In the last days, Revelation tells us the “Mother of harlots” and her daughters will persecute God’s remnant people, the last-day Elijahs. “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ” (Revelation 12:17). “And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus” (Revelation 17:5, 6)." 8. Running Before the King. • Elijah—“And the hand of the Lord was on Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel” (1 Kings 18:46). • John—“As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias [Isaiah] the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight” (Luke 3:4). When a monarch traveled in Bible times, servants often ran ahead to prepare the path for the approaching king. They cleared the road of rocks and obstacles, filled in potholes, cut down high spots, and straightened the crooked turns. In the same way, those preaching the Elijah message in the last days will help prepare people for the coming of our King Jesus. They will proclaim a message that makes the way of salvation clear, plain, and easy to understand. “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6)." 9. Supreme Interest in Glorifying God • Elijah—“Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the Lord God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again” (1 Kings 18:37). • John—“He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). Those preaching the Elijah message will make glorifying God their top priority. They will be wholly consecrated to God’s cause, just as were John and Elijah. They will be willing to make any sacrifice that others might be saved—in other words, to spend and be spent in the work of God. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1)." 10. Repairing God’s Altar. • Elijah—“And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down” (1 Kings 18:30). • John—“In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:1, 2). The Elijah message will be a trumpet call to return to “the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 1:3). Today, when so many are telling us that the teachings of the Bible are old-fashioned and need to be revised to better fit the times, we desperately need to be reminded that God said, “For I am the Lord, I change not” (Malachi 3:6). “And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in” (Isaiah 58:12)." 11. Messages Spark Reformation. • Elijah—“Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel. … And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him” (1 Kings 18:19–21). • John—“John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. And there went out unto him all the land of Judea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins” (Mark 1:4, 5). In the days of Elijah and John the Baptist, God’s people had been corrupted by the pagan influences around them and had compromised God’s truth (1 Kings 19:14; Matthew 3:1, 2). These two brave prophets delivered a message that sparked revival and reform among God’s people. Today, once again, it seems that much of Christianity is lukewarm and worldly. If judgment is going to begin at God’s house (Ezekiel 9:6; 1 Peter 4:17), then certainly the revival must start there too! Since God’s plan is for His people to reach the entire world, He must first send the Elijah message to reach the church." 12. Point People to Christ. • Elijah—“Elijah the prophet came near, and said, Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God” (1 Kings 18:36). • John—“The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). The burning desire of modern Elijahs will be to turn people to Jesus, that they might know Him and have everlasting life.
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  • A MISTRANSLATION THAT CHANGED WESTERN THEOLOGY:
    IMPORTANT!! Listen to this 1-minute audio - https://substack.com/profile/2772617-robert-d-hosken/note/c-277476235 - it explains how a tiny, one-letter mistranslation in Romans 5:12 has changed the way we think about God as a stern judge rather than as a loving Father. You can also read a longer explanation here: www.agape-biblia.org/literatura/#Augustine2 - read all the way down through "John Cassian." Our beliefs about freedom, sexuality, celibacy, and marriage have been seriously distorted by this idea that sin is passed on from Adam and Eve by conceiving their children and passed down to every generation after them.
    A MISTRANSLATION THAT CHANGED WESTERN THEOLOGY: IMPORTANT!! Listen to this 1-minute audio - https://substack.com/profile/2772617-robert-d-hosken/note/c-277476235 - it explains how a tiny, one-letter mistranslation in Romans 5:12 has changed the way we think about God as a stern judge rather than as a loving Father. You can also read a longer explanation here: www.agape-biblia.org/literatura/#Augustine2 - read all the way down through "John Cassian." Our beliefs about freedom, sexuality, celibacy, and marriage have been seriously distorted by this idea that sin is passed on from Adam and Eve by conceiving their children and passed down to every generation after them.
    SUBSTACK.COM
    Robert D. Hosken (@robertdhosken)
    A Mistranslation That Changed Western Theology:
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  • THIS WAS SUCH SHAMEFUL TREATMENT BY AUTHORITIES AT CLIFF COLLEGE WHERE I WAS ONCE A STUDENT- WELL BEFORE THIS INCIDENT ! ( Robin Stephen Aldrich )
    What happens when a Christian professor at a Christian college is disciplined for expressing a belief he says is rooted in historic Christian teaching?
    That question is at the center of a growing legal battle in the United Kingdom, and it is sparking conversations far beyond one campus.
    Dr. Aaron Edwards, a theology lecturer formerly employed by Cliff College in Derbyshire, England, says he was dismissed after posting a social media message defending traditional Christian views on sexuality and marriage.
    The controversy began when Edwards published a tweet expressing concern that some churches were becoming hesitant to address biblical teachings on sin, sexuality, and repentance. The post generated intense reaction and eventually led to disciplinary action and his departure from the college.
    Now, Edwards is pursuing legal action, saying his goal is not only to seek justice for his own situation but also to raise awareness about what he believes is a growing challenge facing Christians who publicly express traditional biblical convictions.
    "This is a Gospel issue," Edwards argued, explaining that Christianity's message of salvation is tied to its understanding of sin and redemption.
    Regardless of where people stand on the broader debate, the case raises questions many believers are wrestling with today.
    How should Christians speak about controversial issues while showing compassion and grace?
    Can historic biblical convictions be expressed openly without fear of professional consequences?
    And what happens when disagreements over doctrine emerge within Christian institutions themselves?
    For Edwards, one of the most painful aspects of the situation is not opposition from secular culture, but conflict within a faith-based environment. He has said it feels different when disagreements arise among people who share the same Christian identity and mission.
    Supporters of Edwards argue that theological educators should be free to articulate orthodox Christian beliefs without fear of losing their positions. Others maintain that institutions have responsibilities regarding how staff communicate sensitive issues publicly.
    As the legal process unfolds, many academics, pastors, and Christian leaders will be watching closely.
    Edwards believes the outcome could influence how future cases are handled and whether other believers feel confident speaking openly about their convictions.
    Whatever one's perspective, the story serves as a reminder that faithfulness has often required courage. Throughout church history, believers have wrestled with how to hold firmly to conviction while extending love, humility, and respect to those who disagree.
    Perhaps that challenge remains as relevant today as ever.
    In a culture marked by division and outrage, Christians are called to pursue both truth and grace. Neither should be sacrificed. Both matter.
    As this conversation continues, it is worth praying for wisdom, humility, and courage for everyone involved. Because the way we navigate difficult conversations may say as much about our faith as the convictions we hold.
    What are your thoughts on balancing biblical conviction and Christian compassion in today's culture?
    THIS WAS SUCH SHAMEFUL TREATMENT BY AUTHORITIES AT CLIFF COLLEGE WHERE I WAS ONCE A STUDENT- WELL BEFORE THIS INCIDENT ! ( Robin Stephen Aldrich ) What happens when a Christian professor at a Christian college is disciplined for expressing a belief he says is rooted in historic Christian teaching? That question is at the center of a growing legal battle in the United Kingdom, and it is sparking conversations far beyond one campus. Dr. Aaron Edwards, a theology lecturer formerly employed by Cliff College in Derbyshire, England, says he was dismissed after posting a social media message defending traditional Christian views on sexuality and marriage. The controversy began when Edwards published a tweet expressing concern that some churches were becoming hesitant to address biblical teachings on sin, sexuality, and repentance. The post generated intense reaction and eventually led to disciplinary action and his departure from the college. Now, Edwards is pursuing legal action, saying his goal is not only to seek justice for his own situation but also to raise awareness about what he believes is a growing challenge facing Christians who publicly express traditional biblical convictions. "This is a Gospel issue," Edwards argued, explaining that Christianity's message of salvation is tied to its understanding of sin and redemption. Regardless of where people stand on the broader debate, the case raises questions many believers are wrestling with today. How should Christians speak about controversial issues while showing compassion and grace? Can historic biblical convictions be expressed openly without fear of professional consequences? And what happens when disagreements over doctrine emerge within Christian institutions themselves? For Edwards, one of the most painful aspects of the situation is not opposition from secular culture, but conflict within a faith-based environment. He has said it feels different when disagreements arise among people who share the same Christian identity and mission. Supporters of Edwards argue that theological educators should be free to articulate orthodox Christian beliefs without fear of losing their positions. Others maintain that institutions have responsibilities regarding how staff communicate sensitive issues publicly. As the legal process unfolds, many academics, pastors, and Christian leaders will be watching closely. Edwards believes the outcome could influence how future cases are handled and whether other believers feel confident speaking openly about their convictions. Whatever one's perspective, the story serves as a reminder that faithfulness has often required courage. Throughout church history, believers have wrestled with how to hold firmly to conviction while extending love, humility, and respect to those who disagree. Perhaps that challenge remains as relevant today as ever. In a culture marked by division and outrage, Christians are called to pursue both truth and grace. Neither should be sacrificed. Both matter. As this conversation continues, it is worth praying for wisdom, humility, and courage for everyone involved. Because the way we navigate difficult conversations may say as much about our faith as the convictions we hold. What are your thoughts on balancing biblical conviction and Christian compassion in today's culture?
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  • This Means War

    As I enter this time of prayer, I repeat the words of Psalm 25:1–2, slowly, several times, making them my prayer to God:

    ‘In you, LORD my God, I put my trust.

    I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame.’

    Pause and repeat
    Pause to read the passage: Eph. 6:12–13
    ‘Sometimes, submission to God involves meek acceptance of suffering, but at other times we should get angry about our un- answered prayers and fight! Why? Because Christians do not believe that all suffering is God’s will. We know that the terrors and tragedies screaming from today’s newspapers cannot possibly reflect the heart of a loving Father at work in His world. Instead, we believe something so surprising that it would be almost impossible to accept if it wasn’t so blatantly true: we believe that the Almighty God does not always get His way on earth—even though He is the Almighty God! Jesus taught us to pray to the Father, “Your kingdom come, your will be done,” precisely because it isn’t a foregone conclusion’*

    Do I ever misdirect my anger against ‘flesh and blood,’ or even against God Himself, when I should instead be harnessing it in spiritual warfare against ‘the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms’?

    Pause and reflect
    Recognising the spiritual battle raging around me today, I put on the helmet of salvation to guard my thinking; the breastplate of righteousness to guard my heart; the shield of faith to deflect enemy attacks; the belt of truth to guard my sexuality; the shoes of the gospel to make myself ready; and the sword of the Spirit to fight the enemy with the sharpness of God’s Word.

    Pause and pray
    As I bring this time with God to a close, I pray a prayer of the eighteenth-century soldier, explorer, and monk Charles de Foucauld:

    ‘Father, I abandon myself into Your hands; do with me what You will. Whatever You may do, I thank You: I am ready for all, I accept all. Let only Your will be done in me, and in all Your creatures—I wish no more than this, O Lord.’

    Amen.

    *Pete Greig, God on Mute, David C Cook, (Colorado Springs, 2020), p175

    By: Pete Greig
    This Means War As I enter this time of prayer, I repeat the words of Psalm 25:1–2, slowly, several times, making them my prayer to God: ‘In you, LORD my God, I put my trust. I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame.’ Pause and repeat Pause to read the passage: Eph. 6:12–13 ‘Sometimes, submission to God involves meek acceptance of suffering, but at other times we should get angry about our un- answered prayers and fight! Why? Because Christians do not believe that all suffering is God’s will. We know that the terrors and tragedies screaming from today’s newspapers cannot possibly reflect the heart of a loving Father at work in His world. Instead, we believe something so surprising that it would be almost impossible to accept if it wasn’t so blatantly true: we believe that the Almighty God does not always get His way on earth—even though He is the Almighty God! Jesus taught us to pray to the Father, “Your kingdom come, your will be done,” precisely because it isn’t a foregone conclusion’* Do I ever misdirect my anger against ‘flesh and blood,’ or even against God Himself, when I should instead be harnessing it in spiritual warfare against ‘the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms’? Pause and reflect Recognising the spiritual battle raging around me today, I put on the helmet of salvation to guard my thinking; the breastplate of righteousness to guard my heart; the shield of faith to deflect enemy attacks; the belt of truth to guard my sexuality; the shoes of the gospel to make myself ready; and the sword of the Spirit to fight the enemy with the sharpness of God’s Word. Pause and pray As I bring this time with God to a close, I pray a prayer of the eighteenth-century soldier, explorer, and monk Charles de Foucauld: ‘Father, I abandon myself into Your hands; do with me what You will. Whatever You may do, I thank You: I am ready for all, I accept all. Let only Your will be done in me, and in all Your creatures—I wish no more than this, O Lord.’ Amen. *Pete Greig, God on Mute, David C Cook, (Colorado Springs, 2020), p175 By: Pete Greig
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