Here is an interesting post by Vincent Cheung. Cheung (extrapolating from Colossians) contrasts Christians and non-Christians and their state of existence. To me it reads as a predestination argument; however whether one believes in Calvinist principles of predestination-election by God or the Arminianism that stresses Grace via choice, it is an essay worth contemplating.

JRH 11/1/07

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Colossians 1:9-14, Part 2

By Vincent Cheung

October 30, 2007

Vincentcheung.com

Thus we cannot function as Christians unless we understand salvation, and part of this means to acknowledge the contrast between the condition of the Christian and the non-Christian. On this point, Scripture portrays the two as standing in opposite extremes, and it uses various ways to explain and emphasize this. In our passage, Paul states that the believers share an inheritance in the "kingdom of light" under Christ, and that while they were still unbelievers, they were under "the dominion of darkness." The contrast between the Christian and the non-Christian, therefore, is as the difference between light and darkness.

The ways that Scripture uses the contrast between light and darkness suggest that the metaphors apply to at least four major areas of differences between Christians and non-Christians - the ethical, intellectual, existential, and eschatological. Ethically, non-Christians are evil and filthy people. Intellectually, they are stupid and irrational people. Existentially, they are restless and miserable people. Eschatologically, they are condemned and doomed people. In contrast, because of the grace of God and the work of Christ, Christians are righteous, enlightened, joyous, and redeemed.

Of course, non-Christians deny these differences, even claiming the opposite on some points. We expect unbelievers to think this way - if they agree with us on the above, they would believe the gospel and become Christians. However, although Scripture is clear on these contrasts, the most scathing attacks against those who affirm them come from those who claim to be Christians. Perhaps some of them are only Christians in name and not in reality. Perhaps some of them are embarrassed by the biblical faith. But since these contrasts constitute the very foundation of the gospel - the very need and reason for it - faithful believers must not compromise on these points.

Those who deny the nature and degree of these differences also deny the necessity and magnitude of the work of Christ, and thus deny the Christian faith. Therefore, we must denounce as traitors and imposters all those who dilute or reject these contrasts. Many of them are spiritual prostitutes who lie in bed with the enemies of the faith in exchange for some tokens of kindness and respect. Since the genuineness of their profession of faith must be doubted, certainly there should be no place for them in positions of church leadership. The stubborn and outspoken ones should be excommunicated from the church.

Since we were once non-Christians, our present understanding of non-Christians is at least in principle also our perception of our pre-conversion condition. That is, if we are consistent, what we think about non-Christians now is also what we think about our pre-converted selves, or what we were before we became Christians. Therefore, to the extent that we are "soft" in our view toward non-Christians, we are also soft on our past selves. And to the extent that we are soft on our past selves, we belittle and devalue the work of Christ, through which our redemption was secured. It follows that to think or speak of non-Christians as less evil, filthy, stupid, irrational, restless, miserable, condemned, and doomed than Scripture describes them is tantamount to a personal rejection of the gospel. He is as one who tramples the Son of God underfoot and insults the Spirit of grace (Hebrews 10:29).

Here is a good Word from Kenneth Copeland that pertains to disasters, trials and tribulations that may have an outcome that taints a person's thinking. The tainted thinking being: "How could God let this happen to me or that person?"

When one believes one is trusting God for a victory and a defeat occurs, it is human nature to blame someone else other than one's self or become consternated when intercession does not bring a victory for another. Too often the next level of transitional thinking is to blame God.

This devotional Word from Brother Copeland should bring a comprehension as to why bad things happen to good people.

However it is extremely important you do not fall into the condemnation trap of the Accuser working from human being inciting a lack of compassion by blaming someone's lack of faith in the matter. The blame game happens way too often from Believers who should know better.

There is therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus; therefore even if the outcome was the result of a lack of faith, Believers are required to build each other up in their most Holy Faith and not tear down.

Keep that in mind as you read Brother Copeland:

JRH 11/7/07

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Delight Yourself

Kenneth Copeland

Kenneth Copeland Ministries Devotional

November 7, 2007 1:29 AM

"Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments. He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord."
(Psalm 112:1,7)

The man who makes a habit of delighting in God's Word will have a heart that's fixed! He can make it through disastrous situations without losing his balance. His mind's made up before he ever gets to the disaster. He's victorious before he ever gets there. A person like that is hard to whip!

The sad thing is that most believers wait until the disaster hits before they start trying to establish themselves on the Word. They wait until their back is against the wall. Then, suddenly, they get real spiritual and start fasting and praying...and all too often they find they've started too late.

That's like a guy who finds out a burglar is in his house and then starts looking for the barbells, so he can build up enough muscle to throw the burglar out. He ain't gonna make it! If he'd been working out instead of watching television every night, he'd have been ready. But as it is, he's headed for a painful defeat.

Be ready before the devil breaks into your house. Get your heart fixed. Turn off the television. Turn off the distractions of the world and turn on the Word. The time to start establishing yourself on it is right now!

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Scripture Study:  Job 22:21-30

Twenty-first century rationalists have chosen to believe that God Almighty does not move or influence nations. Probably because in their mind if a God existed, what egalitarian justice is there in supporting one nation over another?

The thing is God is only interested in the Kingdom of God and covenants He has made with nations or individuals that may affect nations. So God moves the ruling elites of nations to achieve an end goal of His Divine Wisdom to benefit humanity who freely choose to accept God's Lordship, Grace, Mercy and Divine companionship. All that definitely is nearly incomprehensible to the mind of humanity and is only discovered as individuals or ruling elites seek to draw closer and closer to the mind of God.

With that in mind, read this devotional from Kenneth Copeland.

JRH 11/11/07

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Oct 15 - The Heart of the King

Kenneth Copeland

Kenneth Copeland Ministries

"The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will."
(Proverbs 21:1)

Think about that for a moment! God has reserved the right to override the will of a nation's leader, if need be, to see that His people are governed according to His will.

What's more, God will hear the prayer of any government leader. Even if he's the worst reprobate in the whole world. He heard the prayer of old King Nebuchadnezzar. Believe me, that means He'll listen to any leader!

You see, Nebuchadnezzar was king of Babylon. He was an ungodly ruler of an ungodly nation. However, he'd taken captives from the land of Judah. He had some of God's people under his authority. So, God began to deal with him.

Again and again, God warned him, "Nebuchadnezzar, you're going to lose your mind if you don't straighten up." And, sure enough, he went just as crazy as could be.

He stayed that way for years too. Then one day he cried out to God and God heard him.

Despite his status as a heathen king of a heathen nation, God intervened repeatedly in Nebuchadnezzar's life and heard him when he finally cried out for help. Why? Because he had God's people under his rule!

That same principle still holds true today. If we'll open the way through prayer, God will deal with our leaders!

If we will humble ourselves in unity and pray, God can change the injustice and corruption that exist in our country, or any country for that matter. He'll change the hearts of everyone from the White House on down to make sure His children are governed justly.

Make it a point to pray for our leaders today!

Scripture Study:  Daniel 4:1-37

Has anyone read or heard of a critique about the book "New Predictions of the End Times"?

Christian Newswire has posted a description of its content; however there is so much on the End Times out and they all seem to disagree on some point or entirely.

Before I take the leap and buy something that is a fascinating subject to read about, I would like to read someone else's opinion: good, bad or so-so.

JRH 11-15-07

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New Predictions of the End Times

Learn what we must do in order to prepare for the future

Christian Newswire

November 15, 2007

CLEVELAND, Ohio, November 15 /Christian Newswire/ -- People are curious why the Antichrist will come, how he will emerge, and what exactly he will do. These questions and more are answered in Rex Lombardo's new book, "Predictions of the End Times: An Accurate Portrayal of the Antichrist and his Actions." New predictions on the advancements of economics, science, philosophy, and religion are given in full detail.

In the future, a new form of government will be imposed upon nations for greater efficiency and to prevent corruption. Life will be improved through a new tax system that utilizes contract-based services for all government funding. Wall Street will be reformed with new policies that will stabilize the financial climate of the future.

Scientific achievements will bring about a new perspective on properly unifying quantum mechanics and relativity through a theory based upon the constitute of kinetic energy. Futuristic solutions are given for abortion, homosexuality, overpopulation, stem cell research, Creationism vs. Darwinism, and many other philosophical issues. Impact will be felt when the Antichrist causes the downfall of false religions and only Christianity remains.

Details are given on how the Antichrist will trigger the great tribulation which will initiate Armageddon for Mankind. Information is provided on why the Antichrist is the harbinger of the Second Coming and what people must do in order to prepare for such events.

This book is intended for those who are curious about futuristic events and the advancement of economics, science, philosophy, and religious matters. Rex Lombardo's visions started when he was in college and this book is the compilation of over 20 years of his work. The author will show how worldwide events taking place today are reflective of what the prophet Daniel predicted many years ago.

Title: Predictions of the End Times: An Accurate Portrayal of the Antichrist and his Actions

Author: Rex Lombardo

Publisher: Xlibris Corporation, International Plaza II, Suite 340, Philadelphia, PA 19113

Publication Date: 08/2007

Trade Paperback: $19.99, 6x9, 121 pages, 978-1-4257-7370-0

Cloth Hardback: $29.99, 6x9, 121 pages, 978-1-4257-7381-6

Public contact (for ordering copies or for resale): Phone: (888) 795-4274 ext. 7876 Email: Orders@Xlibris.com For more information, visit http://www.predictionsoftheendtimes.com/.

"Shepherd's Rod Part One: Our Uppermost Goal--To Advance The Kingdom"

BOBBY CONNER

November 7, 2007
Elijah List

The Kingdom Company: A Generation that Will Demonstrate Dominion Demeanor and Establish God's Kingdom by Love!

In a powerful prophetic encounter on the Day of Atonement, I heard these words: "A Kingdom Company! An emerging generation that will take charge." They will rule the visible world from the invisible realm.

The Kingdom Company--Who Are They? God's Kingdom Company will consist of overcomers! With no other agenda, their uppermost goal will be to assure that Christ Jesus receives the glory due His name.

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come into him and dine with him, and he with Me. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the Churches." Revelation 3:20-22

God is calling and commissioning His Kingdom Company to function in dominion authority; revealing His sovereignty and power, yet operating from a firm foundation of Christ's love.

EXALTING THE KING IN HIS KINGDOM IS OUR HIGHEST GOAL. This emerging generation will demonstrate dominion demeanor and establish God's Kingdom with Christ-centered love. The Spirit of God is releasing the much needed grace to display God's love while demonstrating Kingdom authority. We have sought God's power but He longs to release passion first. A baptism of love is being released and it is the love of Jesus Christ that will ultimately motivate us.

Business Leaders

Another aspect of the Kingdom Company will be revealed in the business world. God's Spirit is currently in the process of visiting and radically impacting the business sector. Business leaders are turning to Christ in unprecedented fashion. The Lord's favor is evident upon these men and women. Moving in God's great grace anointing deposited upon their lives, they will help establish God's Kingdom. The Spirit of Truth will release outstanding wisdom and the result of that wisdom will be increased wealth.

Expect to see great grace and overflowing favor bestowed upon Christian companies. Remember, it is God who gives us power to get wealth in order to establish His covenants (Deuteronomy 8:18).

We can also expect to see a transfer of wealth-God promises: "the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous" Proverbs 13:22. God will prove Himself faithful to His people. Expect the favor of the Lord to rest upon the faithful.

Your True Identity--Kings and Priests

It is imperative that you realize your identity in Christ. In Colossians 2:9, we discover this central fact concerning Christ Jesus: "For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily." The next verse is revolutionary and it will change your outlook on life: "And you are complete in Him, who is the Head of all principality and power" Colossians 2:10. You are complete, which means you lack nothing at all as you abide in HIM! Abiding in Christ and allowing Him to flow freely out of you enables you to function with the greatest degree of success, thus fulfilling God's call upon your life.

Understanding your "true identity" is essential in order to obtaining your divine destiny. You are called to success and to walk in overcoming victory: "because as He is, so are we in this world" 1 John 4:17.

The task set before us is no small task--we are to restore the desolate heritages of many generations.

Thus says the LORD: "In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you; I will preserve you and give you as a covenant to the people, to restore the earth, to cause them to inherit the desolate heritages." Isaiah 49:8

This is the acceptable time, or in other words, the time of God's overflowing favor. This is a time that Heaven is open to our prayers. "I have heard you!" God's Word promises that if we ask anything according to His will, we will receive what we are asking for (1 John 5:14-15). Also notice from the above Isaiah passage that this is "the day of salvation"--a day to receive the help and support of the Lord (Psalm 121:1-5). This is also the day of restoration and of the restoration of desolate heritages. You can expect to recover what many generations have lost!

You are to be established as a Kingdom priest. There has never been such an incredibly important season of advancing the Kingdom of God. We are in His Kingdom "for such a time as this" Esther 4:14. His Kingdom is in you for such a time as this.

Richest Blessings,

Bobby Conner
Eagles View Ministries
Email: manager@bobbyconner.org

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Permission is granted (and you are also encouraged) to reprint these articles in hard copy form, as well as sending them to your own email lists and posting them on your own websites. We ask only that you keep ElijahList website, email contact info, and author contact information intact. Have a blessed day!

I was Born Again surrounding the background of the Word of Faith movement which has a few scarlet threads of emphasis. The hallmark Scripture of the Faith movement (or as it was in my early Christianity) is Mark 11: 22 - 24.

22 So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. (NKJV)

The emphasis is on saying so much that a heart belief erases doubt; thus what we have in our life (negative or positive) is a matter of the words we speak. This is why Word of Faith people are so Bible oriented. If we speak God's Word over our lives (preferably before a need but to also eventually overcome a crisis) our heart becomes aligned with the Word of God.

It is like the old computer adage: Garbage in/Garbage out. The constancy of what a person says will more than likely be the result of their existence - negatively or positively.

From this thread springs forth related threads such as prosperity or healing (and probably more, I am not an expert or I would be totally victorious in my life).

I do not wish to affirm or criticize this thinking except in this: The foundation of Mark 11: 22 - 24 is excellent; however when people emphasize threads to extrapolate material gain over spiritual gain problems begin to arise. This is why I think so many Ministers of God (especially the ones involved in Televangelism but it does not stop there) are becoming involved in scandal or the appearance of scandal by jealous association. When Ministers utilize the donations of the sheep to enrich themselves rather than enrich the Kingdom of God a deviation of purpose emerges. Of course in a Minister's private life from wages or personal investment the blessings of wealth emerge, than it is the Accuser attempting to derail legitimacy by painting a picture of greed.

Those who are not good stewards of money (often times people simply are not capable stewarding beyond an ability so I am not assigning judgment on poor stewardship) are often willing to denounce the wealth and prosperity of Faith Ministers.

A legitimate Ministry is the Elijah List. I say legit because it is a for profit business that makes no allusions to a non-profit status for donations. It is simultaneously up front about making a profit as well as furthering the Kingdom of God by disseminating the sale of a focused line of books, Teaching CD's and Music Cd's. The Elijah List sells the publications of Ministers representing a non-profit 501(c) 3 tax deduction status.

The point I am trying to build to is this: Faith is not a voodoo tool for material self-aggrandizement; rather Faith is a means for humanity and the Godhead to become one in the Kingdom of God/Heaven. It is a point of Heaven and earth supernaturally uniting under the Lordship of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. God has made that possible by incarnating Himself in the likeness of human flesh through Christ Jesus for this purpose of union.

Now I have said all this because I want you to read an essay from Bobby Conner as delivered by the Elijah List with the theme of seeking first the Kingdom of God. It is quite awesome!

JRH

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The Kingdom of God is Emerging--God's Word will be Displayed in Power and Action

By Bobby Conner

EaglesView Ministries

Elijah List

November 19, 2007

"The Kingdom of God is more than a good method or a great message. It consists not of eloquent words--but is a demonstration of the power of God."

Jesus Christ is the most single-minded person who has ever lived. His entire earthly life, including the whole of His public ministry, was focused on one thing: announcing and establishing the Kingdom of God on earth. He announced it with His preaching, teaching and healing; He established it through His death and resurrection. The first recorded words of Jesus deals with the Kingdom: "From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, 'Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand'" (Matthew 4:17).

When Jesus taught His disciples how to pray, the first thing He told them to ask of the Father was for His Kingdom to come to earth: "In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in Heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your Kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in Heaven" (Matthew 6:9-10).

Because the Kingdom of God was so central to the purposes and plans of Christ, He wanted His followers to constantly seek after its unveiling. If the Kingdom of Heaven was Jesus' central priority, it must be ours as well. We must keep the main thing the main thing.

The phrases "Kingdom of God" and "Kingdom of Heaven" are a common and fundamental part of Biblical theology, with the word "Kingdom" appearing 150 times in the New Testament alone. Its root meaning is God's royal kingship and power, His divine authority to lead and rule. God is the supreme ruler over all creation. The royal rule of Christ is invincible, imperishable and will last forever (see Colossians 1:13-20, Revelation 1:8).

Jesus declared that this Gospel of the Kingdom was to be preached in all the world. Our mission on earth is to obey Him, and we need His anointing to empower us to carry out His command. As the Body of Christ, we are to live a life so yielded to Jesus that the Kingdom (the power and authority) of God is recognized here on earth, even by those who do not believe. We are to be so obedient to our King that His Kingdom will be expressed on this earth to an ever-increasing extent--no matter how much the influence of the powers of darkness grows--just as it will be shown in its fullness at the end of the age.

The Kingdom of God is more than a good method or a great message. It consists not of eloquent words--but is a demonstration of the power of God. A well-delivered sermon or an expertly reasoned teaching is not enough; people need to see God's power on display. The people of this generation are ready to see God's Word displayed in power and action. Only then will they begin to see and believe in the Kingdom of God and to trust Christ as their Savior and Lord.

The Works of Jesus--We Are Ambassadors

As Jesus Himself stated boldly: "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it" (John 14:12-14).

Every true believer is to be doing the works of Jesus; this is the evidence of the Kingdom of God. We are here on earth to do the very works of Jesus. This is the ministry of the Kingdom. If we are to be doing the works of Jesus, we would do well to understand what works He did.

Matthew 4:23-24 gives us a clear picture: "And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. Then His fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torments, and those who were demon-possessed, epileptics, and paralytics; and He healed them."

We are to preach the good news of salvation, teach the Scriptures, heal the sick, and set the captives free--just as Jesus did.

To distract us from declaring and displaying these works, the enemy of our soul attempts to get us to look and live in the past. Many believers today seem to prefer to reminisce about the mighty moves of God in former times rather than get involved with what He is doing now. While we should be thankful to God for every move of the Spirit, we can't live life always looking back. We aren't going to move forward very fast if we're always staring in the rearview mirror. We must see God at work in our day today. God is the God of the NOW! He is the great "I AM" who encompasses eternity.

Paul describes our mission and commission in terms of government and diplomacy when he says that we are "ambassadors for Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:20). The word "ambassador" is the English translation of the Greek word "presbeuo," which has the root meaning of being a senior representative possessing power and authority. An ambassador represents the government that appointed him. His power and authority are delegated. When he speaks in his official capacity as ambassador, his voice is the voice of the government he represents.

In the same way we, as God's ambassadors, represent His government--His Kingdom--here on earth. He has delegated His power and authority to us for that purpose. If we are His ambassadors, we have His authority to act in His name and on His behalf. This power and authority are actively at work in us right now!

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand! We are to declare the same message as our Master. He has entrusted His Body, the Church, with the administration and expansion of His Kingdom on earth, which He established. We must extend to the world the same invitation as Jesus did when He said, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). This is an open-ended invitation for all who will to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

The time is now! The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!

Blessings,

Bobby Conner
EaglesView Ministries
Email: manager@bobbyconner.org

Here is another black eye on Bible believing Faith oriented Christians. Richard Roberts the son of the Founder of Oral Roberts University has proffered his resignation over the scandal of alleged misappropriation of University funds for a living a "lavish" lifestyle.

Roberts resigned admitting no wrong doing; however the appearance of the resignation paints an image of guilt.

There seems to be an indeterminate cycle of big name Televangelists and independent Mega-Church Pastors stumbling into scandal. About a year ago Ted Haggard was outed as indulging in homosexual activities. That scandal occurred at a time Haggard was the President of the National Association of Evangelicals. After a bit of stonewalling Haggard finally confessed in heart felt contrition of the darkness he had been battling in soul. That is always a first step to the road of restoration for a Believer that lives and serves a God of Grace and Mercy through the Blood Sacrifice Jesus paid in His death, burial and Resurrection.

Will Roberts publicly demonstrate contrition if the allegations are proven true? I pray so. Indeed prayers for Richard and Lindsay Roberts and their adult children should be more important than condemnation; for there is no condemnation to those who in Christ Jesus.

The Founder Oral Roberts and the Oral Roberts University needs prayer and supplication to overcome the work of the Accuser who desires the destruction of an awesome Ministry a University of higher learning in which the foundation was based on the supernatural miraculous works of an all powerful God.

It is at this point that non-Believers spit venom even as the Lord Jesus received on the Cross. It is at this point that Believers are wrapped in spiritual confusion face of choice of abandoning the faith out of bitter disappointment. Even the eleven remaining Apostles of the Lamb of God forsook and fled from their Master the Lord Jesus Christ when the secular worldly powers railroaded the Son of God with false accusations.

Is Roberts falsely accused? From the reports of the Mainstream Media (MSM) there is all the appearance that the accusations will be proven true if civil or criminal investigations proceed.

My fellow believers, whatever the outcome of the path of Richard Roberts, do NOT abandon THE WAY of Christ. Christ is into forgiveness and bringing back the lost lambs into the flock even if it is only one. As Believers forgiveness, acceptance of confession and restoration is THE WAY of Christ. We do not behead those that make mistakes under the Redemption of Christ fulfilling and nullifying the curse of the law.

JRH

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Embattled Oral Roberts president resigns

By JUSTIN JUOZAPAVICIUS, Associated Press Writer

Yahoo News

November 23, 2007 10:39 PM CT

The president of Oral Roberts University, facing accusations he misspent school funds to support a lavish lifestyle, resigned on Friday, officials said.

Richard Roberts' resignation is effective immediately, according to a statement e-mailed from George Pearsons, chairman of the school's Board of Regents.

Roberts and the evangelical university have come under fire since three former professors sued last month, alleging wrongful termination.

The lawsuit includes allegations of a $39,000 shopping tab at one store for Richard Roberts' wife, Lindsay, a $29,411 Bahamas senior trip on the university jet for one of Roberts' daughters, and a stable of horses for the Roberts children.

Roberts, son of school founder and televangelist Oral Roberts, had been on temporary leave from the university, fighting the accusations against him. The Board of Regents had ordered an outside probe of the school's finances.

In a recent interview, Roberts and his wife denied wrongdoing. He has said the lawsuit amounted to "intimidation, blackmail and extortion."

On Friday, he said in the statement that he loved the university, of which he became president in 1993.

"I love ORU with all my heart," he said. "I love the students, faculty, staff and administration and I want to see God's best for all of them."

The school will not provide additional comment until next week, spokesman Jeremy Burton said. A message left for Roberts' personal attorney wasn't immediately returned.

Gary Richardson, the attorney for the three professors, said, "Those who have seen what we have seen won't have any surprise about the fact that Richard has stepped down." He later said, "There was no option, period."

One of the plaintiffs, John Swails, said Roberts "could have spared the university and the students by going ahead and stepping down and admitting his wrongdoing."

The professors also alleged in their lawsuit that Richard Roberts required students in a government class to work on 2006 mayoral candidate Randi Miller's campaign.

Roberts publicly endorsed Miller, but said then that he was doing so as a private citizen and not as an ORU representative. He has denied the lawsuit's claims that he ordered students to work on Miller's campaign.

Professor Tim Brooker, one of the lawsuit plaintiffs, accused the school of forcing him to quit after he warned Roberts that requiring students to work on Miller's campaign jeopardized ORU's tax-exempt status.

In the weeks since that lawsuit was filed, others have cropped up, including one from a former senior accountant who alleged that the Robertses ordered him to help them hide improper and illegal financial wrongdoing from the authorities and the public.

"This is good news for the university," said Donald Vance, a professor of biblical languages and literature. "It's time for the Board of Regents to step forward with a strong choice, and I hope they will involve the tenured faculty in the process."

Two weeks ago, Vance joined the majority of tenured faculty in a vote of "no confidence" in Richard Roberts as president, regardless of the outcome of the lawsuit.

Cornell Cross II, a senior government major, said the resignation is "an excellent step to fix the university," but believes the school's most trying days lie ahead.

"This is not over, there a lot of things that need to continue," Cross said. "The culture of fear that has been allowed to fester at ORU has to be looked into.

"We still haven't heard any admission of wrongdoing or any kind of humility or contrition," he said.

The school's regents will meet Monday and Tuesday to determine action in the search process for a new president, Pearsons said in the statement.

Executive Regent Billy Joe Daugherty will assume the president's administrative responsibilities, working with Oral Roberts until the regents' meeting, the college said.

Former ORU Regent Harry McNevin, who quit the board in 1987 because of the misspending he alleged he witnessed, called the resignation "inevitable."

"You can't take the sacrifices of God's people and use them any old way," he said. "It's been 20 years that they've been doing the same things that I became aware of."

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Richard Roberts Resigns

John R. Houk

© November 24, 2007

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Embattled Oral Roberts president resigns

Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Copyright © 2007 Yahoo! Inc. All rights reserved.

John R. Houk

© November 27, 2007

Rick Renner's Sparkling Gems from the Greek has a devotional describing the characteristics of the Anti-Christ. Brother Renner points out that many Christians (Protestant and Catholic) have even named a person over the years whose actions seemed to fit the description of the Anti-Christ.

Yet truthfully these people have not demonstrated the key element of the Anti-Christ: That key element is the use of Supernatural Powers that have the potential to even fool Believers in Christ Jesus that the Anti-Christ is a Messianic figure representing God or proclaiming godhood itself.

So some of the names of the past labeled "Anti-Christ" may have had an anti-Christ spirit about them yet was not the bad dude himself. In reality the Anti-Christ will not be an obvious evil person like Nero, Caligula, Hitler, Mohammed (Christian perspective), Genghis Khan, a U.N. Secretary-General, a particular Pope, a Martin Luther or Christian Reformer or whatever name or official title a Christian seeker of the evil one is.

Ridiculously I have heard people named an anti-Christ because their secular or religious Officious title combined with an agenda that is opposite of another's Christian mind-set labeled as the evil one. This naming is ridiculous because on a secular level they may have following marching orders of their leader (like say a Kissinger) or someone practicing their faith contrary to another group's Christian belief system (Protestant versus Catholic Papacy). Those claims are based more on skewed prejudicial perceptions than Biblical descriptions.

I have my beliefs on what sort of person the Anti-Christ will come from based on my interpretation of the Bible combined with the insight of Apocalyptic Christian writers that I have agreed with; however even that may not be the case. Thus I will not name my scenario for it will certainly offend someone and I try real hard not to go to that place of offense.

I will mention this characteristic though. I believe the Anti-Christ (whether he emerges in my lifetime or the future) will not be perceived as an evil person until it is way too late for people to do anything to derail him in other way than described in the Revelation of John. He will begin with an instant stardom that comes with solving global geopolitical problems thought unsolvable without a global devastation of life centered on global perceptions of Israel.

For what it is worth I am neither a theologian nor an apocalyptic expert; therefore my thoughts may be wrong (but I don't think so).

Rick Renner's thoughts derived from analyzing the Greek language used in New Testament days (and the Greek used by the Alexandrian Jews that wrote the Septuagint) is good reading to contemplate on what the Anti-Christ will appear to be.

JRH 11/27/07

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The Appearance of the Antichrist

Rick Renner

Sparkling Gems from the Greek

Rick Renner Ministries

November 27, 2007 Devotional Email

Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4

From my early childhood, I heard about the antichrist. In the many years that I've been a Christian, I've heard people speculate that this person or that person could potentially be the antichrist. However, although these individuals may have been forerunners to the antichrist, none of them turned out to be the long- anticipated Man of Lawlessness described in the Scriptures.

The Bible teaches us that at some point in the future, an evil ruler called the antichrist is going to step onto the platform of the world stage and take the leading role for a short time in the affairs of mankind. Many predecessors of the antichrist have already come and gone, but according to this scripture in Second Thessalonians 2, the real antichrist is still yet to be revealed in the last times.

Paul tells us about the supernatural appearance of the antichrist when he writes about the last days in Second Thessalonians 2:3,4. Paul writes, "Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God."

Paul says that before the antichrist can be revealed, first there must be a "falling away" that takes place in the world. The phrase "falling away" is taken from the Greek word apostasia, which describes a falling away or a revolt. The writer Plutarch used this word to describe a political revolt. In First Maccabees 2:15, the word apostasia is used to picture people who are turning away from the Lord. This word also occurs in the Septuagint version of Joshua 2:22, where it conveys the idea of rebellion against God. Thus, the word apostasia is a word that denotes rebellion, mutiny, and defiance.

Before the antichrist can be welcomed with wide- open arms by the world, a change in society's mentality must first take place. Paul uses this word to predict a rebellion or mutiny against God that will occur in the last days. The text does not imply that this mutiny will occur within the Church; rather, it seems to point to a change in society's attitude toward God.

Paul is describing a time when society's attitude toward God and holy things will become mutinous. Once this anti-God and anti-godliness mentality pervades society, the world will be primed and prepared to receive this man whom Paul calls "that man of sin."

The Greek word used here for "sin" is the word anomia. Translating the word anomia as "sin" is unfortunate, for the word anomia actually means without law and carries the idea of a lawless attitude. It has a definite article in Greek, which tells us emphatically that this individual is not just any person with a lawless attitude; rather, this is a reference to the man of lawlessness or the antichrist.

Paul points to a time when this evil leader will be "revealed." The word "revealed" is the Greek word apokalupto. It is a compound word, using the words apo and kalupto. The word apo means away, and the word kalupto is something that is veiled, covered, concealed, or hidden. When these two words are compounded, they form the word apokalupto, depicting a veil that has been removed, exposing what is behind the veil that was formerly concealed or hidden from view. Paul uses this word to inform us that a day is coming when the antichrist - who has been concealed and hidden from public view - will suddenly appear. In that moment when he suddenly emerges on the world scene, it will be as if a stage curtain has been pulled out of the way so that he can make his grand appearance.

Paul calls this wicked leader "the son of perdition." The word "perdition" is from the Greek word apoleia, which speaks of something that is doomed, rotten, ruinous, or decaying. Although this world leader may boast that he will lead the world to a higher and better day, what he will actually bring to the world is doom, destruction, ruin, rot, and decay. No redeeming value can be found in anything produced by the antichrist's rule. In the Greek text, Paul uses a definite article, loudly signaling that this evil world ruler is in a category like none other before him. He is not simply another evil person. He is THE Son of Doom and Destruction.

Next, Paul tells us that this wicked world leader will be one "who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God." The Greek word for "opposeth" is antikeimai, which means opposed to or against everything that is established. There is no doubt that this is a clear reference to the antichrist.

The word "antichrist" means against Christ. Thus, the Greek word used in this verse tells us that this evil leader will be against everything having to do with God. It is important to note that the Greek grammar used in this verse paints the picture of a continual, unending, and perpetual resistance against the things of God. This is not just a one- time resistance against the things of God; rather, this poisonous quality will be deeply ingrained in the character of the antichrist. Everything in this evil ruler will be opposed to God and all that He represents.

Paul also warns that the antichrist "exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped." The word "exalteth" is the Greek word huperairo, which means to exceedingly exalt oneself or to be exalted highly. In this case, it is the idea of someone being exalted too highly. According to Paul, the antichrist will go to all lengths to exceedingly exalt himself in the eyes of the world. As we continue to study this verse, we discover that this wicked ruler will even attempt to sit in God's rightful place in the temple and elevate himself higher than God Himself !

Paul says that the antichrist will oppose and exalt himself above all "that is worshipped." The word for "worship" is the Greek word sebasma, which refers to anything that can be worshiped, including God. Here we see that the antichrist will attempt to stop the practice of worshiping God and demand that he become the primary focus of human attention and worship.

Then Paul prophesies that the antichrist will sit in the very place of God in the temple. The word "temple" is the Greek word naos. It is sometimes used to refer to the innermost part of the temple and may be interpreted as the Holy of Holies. On the basis of this verse, many scholars assert that the antichrist will enter a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem, where he will go into the Holy of Holies and decree himself to be God incarnate.

Wasn't this exactly what Lucifer attempted to do when he declared that he would exalt himself above the very throne of God? Isaiah tells us of Lucifer in Isaiah 14:13,14: "For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High."

Following the long-held desire of Satan, the antichrist will again attempt to take the very place of God in the temple. Paul tells us that the antichrist will commit the ultimate offense of "shewing himself that he is God." The Greek word for "shew" is the word apodeiknumi, which actually means to vividly portray; to point out; to illustrate; to show off; or to make a vivid presentation. This is the picture of the antichrist using all possible means to demonstrate that he holds a rank that is even higher than God Himself.

In Second Thessalonians 2:9, Paul warns that the antichrist will even employ supernatural signs and wonders to try to prove that he is God. He says, "Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders."

The words "with all" are from the Greek words en pase, which emphatically declares that the antichrist will come with all power - implying that he will make his grand appearance with all kinds of power and supernatural displays. The Greek word for "power" is dunamis, which describes something that is explosive or dynamic. It is where we get the word dynamite. This means that when the antichrist appears, he will come with all kinds of powers that are truly extraordinary in the opinion of the lost world.

The Greek word for "sign" is semeion. This word denotes an act that points the viewer in a certain direction or an action performed to prove a point. It also means a beacon, a signal, or a sign. Just as a sign on the road gives directions to a driver, these supernatural feats are intended to point the attention and focus of the world to the antichrist.

The word "wonder" is the Greek word teras, and it is often translated miracles. This refers to something that causes people to marvel or to be amazed. The same word is used in Matthew 24:24, where Jesus warns that false prophets will perform wonders in the last days to deceive and to draw people away after themselves. Here it is used to say that when Satan finally has the opportunity to introduce his antichrist to the world, the evil ruler will energetically attempt to take the very place of God - even using lying signs and wonders to show that he is God.

When you put all these Greek words together, you discover that Paul's words in Second Thessalonians 2:3, 4, 9 could be interpreted:

"In light of these things, I urge you to refuse to allow anyone to take advantage of you. For example, you won't need a letter to tell you when the day of the Lord has come. You ought to know by now that this day can't come until first a worldwide insurgency, rebellion, riot, and mutiny against God has come about in society.

"Once that occurs, the world will then be primed, prepared, and ready to embrace the Man of Lawlessness, the one who hates law and has rebellion running in his blood. This is the long-awaited and predicted Son of Doom and Destruction, the one who brings rot and ruin to everything he touches. When the time is just right, he will finally come out of hiding and go public!

"Do you understand whom I am talking about? I'm describing that person who will be so against God and everything connected with the worship of God that, if you can imagine it, he will even try to put himself on a pedestal above God Himself - sitting in God's rightful place in the temple and publicly proclaiming himself to be God!

"This evil one will be energized by Satan himself as he makes his arrival known to the world with all kinds of dynamic supernatural powers - powers that are truly extraordinary. These lying signs and wonders and supernatural feats have only one purpose: They are designed to draw attention to the Lawless One and to make the world stand in awe of him."

Any Christian who is sensitive to the Spirit of God is keenly aware that we are living in a time when society's attitude toward God is radically changing. The world is being primed and prepared to throw open its arms and receive this world ruler who will oppose God and bring rot, ruin, and destruction to mankind. Unfortunately, the lost world doesn't realize that it is being slowly seduced and trained for this moment the devil has long awaited.

As believers, we have no need to be afraid, for none of this will affect those who know Jesus Christ. However, it will affect those who are lost and without God. They will fall under the supernatural hypnotism of this devil-anointed leader. And if they don't come to know Jesus Christ before all of this occurs, they will be ensnared in the trap that the entire world is about to fall into in the days to come.

Please realize what a critical time you are living in right now. Jesus is coming quickly. Those who know Him will escape many of these trials and temptations, but those who don't know Him will be caught in the delusion and devastation. It's good to rejoice that you will escape, but what about those you love? What are you going to do to ensure that they escape the evil days that are coming upon the earth?

In light of this clear teaching of Scripture, don't you think it's time for you to reach out to your unsaved friends and family members and speak to them about the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ? Ask the Holy Spirit to give you an opportunity to speak to them; then let Him fill your mouth with the right words as you earnestly plead with them to make Jesus Christ the Lord of their lives.

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MY PRAYER FOR TODAY

Lord, I ask You to give me the boldness I need to present the Gospel to my friends and family members who are unsaved. I know that if they don't receive Jesus, they will be lost in sin and caught in the delusion that is coming upon the world in the days to come. I don't want to stand before You knowing that they are lost because I was too afraid to open my mouth and tell them of Your saving blood. Holy Spirit, please give me the boldness I need and the right words to speak to those who are near and dear to my heart. When I stand before You, I want to be assured in my heart that I did everything I could to rescue those who are lost and perishing. Please help me to do this and to start today!

I pray this in Jesus' name!

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MY CONFESSION FOR TODAY

I confess that I am not afraid to testify of Jesus Christ to others. In fact, the love of God compels me to reach out to those who are lost. I know I will give account for those I could have reached but didn't, so I will do everything I can to speak to them, to reach them, and to make sure they have an opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. If they refuse to listen or to receive, I will be freed from my responsibility. My part is just to make sure they had a chance to hear and to believe. The Holy Spirit is empowering me to testify, so starting today, I will follow His leading and speak to unbelievers about Jesus as God provides opportunities for me to do so.

I declare this by faith in Jesus' name!

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by dailygem@rrmnews.org

Rick Renner Ministries | PO Box 702040 | Tulsa | OK | 74170