Free Real Estate, No Money Down

How would you like to have a luxurious mansion with sweeping vistas, great neighbors, and perfect weather? Even more so, how would you like to be given this mansion, free of charge? Believe it or not, such an offer is on the table right now, and it can be yours for a limited time only.

If you've ever dreamed of having greater wealth than any person on earth, then you've come to the right place. Keep on reading, and you'll learn the details of the greatest real estate deal in human history.

It's the offer of a lifetime. Free real estate with no money down, and you don't even have to pre-qualify or meet any net worth requirements. You don't need to be part of an exclusive fraternity or an alumnus of an elite college or university. However, there is one catch - you do need to be well connected. In order to close this once in a lifetime deal, you must have an intimate and personal relationship with the man who's offering it.

The Offer

By now, most of you are skeptical. Nothing's free, right? But I assure you, this is not a pyramid scheme or a late-night infomercial scam. This offer comes from the most trustworthy person in the entire universe - Jesus of Nazareth. You might better know Him by the name of Jesus Christ.

If you've spent most of your life chasing after the pleasures and luxuries of this world, then I ask you to take a moment of your time and consider the following offer from Jesus. After all, it's a pretty sweet deal. He's offering you a life of abundant wealth in a luxurious mansion with amenities beyond your wildest dreams, and best of all, the wealth He offers lasts forever!

But don't take my word for it, this is what Jesus says:

"Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going." John 14:1-4 (NLT)

What is this place that Jesus has prepared for those who trust in Him? And what does it look like? Luckily, the Book of Revelation describes it in detail:

"So he took me in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and he showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. It shone with the glory of God and sparkled like a precious stone - like jasper as clear as crystal. The city wall was broad and high, with twelve gates guarded by twelve angels. And the names of the twelve tribes of Israel were written on the gates. There were three gates on each side - east, north, south, and west. The wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, and on them were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb." Revelation 21:10-14 (NLT)

Chapters 21 and 22 of the Book of Revelation provide an in-depth description of the place Christ is preparing for His followers, a place which includes the very presence of God Himself:

"No longer will there be a curse upon anything. For the throne of God and of the Lamb will be there, and his servants will worship him. And they will see his face, and his name will be written on their foreheads. And there will be no night there - no need for lamps or sun - for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever." Revelation 22:3-5 (NLT)

To all who wish to live in such a place and consume the water of life, the Lord Jesus Christ issues a freely issues this invitation:

"The Spirit and the bride say, 'Come.' Let anyone who hears this say, 'Come.' Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life." Revelation 22:17 (NLT)

The glory of what Christ offers is beyond comprehension, and the Return on Investment you'll receive if you accept His offer is truly astronomical. Just take a moment to consider the terms of His offer. The real estate component alone makes it the best deal you'll ever encounter - a luxurious mansion never in need of repair where God is your neighbor and you live forever while never growing hungry or thirsty for anything He can't readily provide.

Such a place is invaluable. There's no way to put a value on it, because there are no comparables. This is a neighborhood completely unique unto itself, a truly one of a kind place, and anyone would be a fool to turn down a sweetheart deal like this one.

In fact, this real estate is so valuable, you should be willing to give up everything in order to make certain you close the deal.

Nothing is More Valuable

According to Jesus, nothing is of greater value than the Kingdom of Heaven. You should be more than willing to give up everything you have in order to devote the rest of your life to obtaining it:

"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field." Matthew 13:44 (NLT)

"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!" Matthew 13:45-46 (NLT)

The Kingdom of Heaven is so valuable, you should forsake everything else in an effort to obtain it. For people of great wealth and high position in this world, an enormous amount of faith and self-discipline is required in order to exhibit a willingness to trade everything in this world for the reward that Christ offers. But the payoff is immense. That's why Jesus warned us of the dangers presented by love of money and the material and physical pleasures of this world.

The Things Of This World

Because of the pitfalls associated with this world, the followers of Jesus must be careful not to allow their thoughts and ambitions to become captive to the things of this world. The danger inherent in pursuing the wealth of this world lies in a lack of ambition to produce fruit for Christ:

"The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced." Matthew 13:22 (NLT)

We see this danger firsthand in the Gospel of Matthew, when a rich man expresses His desire to follow Christ:

"Jesus told him, 'If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.' But when the young man heard this, he went away sad, for he had many possessions." Matthew 19:21-22 (NLT)

Despite his apparent willingness to follow Christ, and his acceptance of the words and deeds of Jesus as truth, the rich man is unwilling to accept Christ's deal. He is consciously unwilling to trade His earthly wealth for treasure in heaven. As a result, He can never be a follower of Christ, because a person cannot serve two masters:

"No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." Matthew 6:24 (NLT)

The man in question could've experienced wealth beyond his wildest imagination. Unfortunately, because of his love for this world, he willingly traded the finest of pearls for a pile of ashes; He traded his buried treasure for a pile of counterfeit coins. Don't make the same mistake!

Would you place millions of dollars under a mattress instead of inside a bank? Of course not! The danger of fire or theft is too great. Why then, should you treat your heavenly treasures any differently? Too many people spend their lives hoarding earthly wealth, while their heavenly treasures go unclaimed:

"Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be." Matthew 6:19-21 (NLT)

Hoarding earthly treasures is utterly foolish. Christ tells us so:

"A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. He said to himself, 'What should I do? I don't have room for all my crops.' Then he said, 'I know! I'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I'll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. And I'll sit back and say to myself, 'My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!' But God said to him, 'You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?' Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God." Luke 12:16-21 (NLT)

What good is all the wealth in this world, if to attain it, you have to forfeit your soul? Don't be foolish. A deep and intimate relationship with the Creator and Master of the Universe is far more rewarding than the fleeting comforts of this world.

Closing The Deal

So now that we've established what really matters, how does one go about closing the deal of a lifetime?

To properly close the deal requires humility:

"God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth." Matthew 5:5 (NLT)

Why is humility required? Because to accept Christ's offer, one must acknowledge His glory. Obtaining the Kingdom of God independently is simply not an option. It's impossible. Only one person can open the door to the Kingdom of Heaven - Jesus Christ:

"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." John 14:6 (NLT)

To those who are willing to humble themselves and accept Christ's sacrifice on the cross as payment for their sins, a Kingdom awaits - built on the foundation of Christ's glory:

"Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me." Matthew 25:34-36 (NLT)

The Kingdom of Heaven is yours to inherit. It's already yours if you simply lay claim to it, so don't be worried when the world mocks you as foolish for accepting it. To such people, the things of this world are perceived as valuable, while the rewards of Christ are perceived as worthless. Don't worry about what such people say. Instead, pray for them. For at one time, we were all as foolish as they are. Pray they recognize the value of true treasure, to the very point of sacrificing their lives in order to obtain it:

"God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven." Matthew 5:11-12 (NLT)

Don't let their ridicule divert your focus, for you have full knowledge of the reward which is just around the corner:

"God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs." Matthew 5:10 (NLT)

Remember, our Lord Jesus Christ was Himself persecuted by this world. What, then, makes us think we will encounter anything less?

"You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:25-28 (NLT)

Follow the example of Jesus and serve others. If you do, even the smallest act will be acknowledged by our Lord:

"And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded." Matthew 10:42 (NLT)

So don't worry when others call you foolish. Instead, trust with absolute faith that Jesus Christ will make good on His promise to reward you. The return you will receive from serving Him is far greater than any financial return the world can offer:

"I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property - along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life. But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then." Mark 10:29-31 (NLT)

Despite what the world may tell you, you lose nothing of real value by following Christ. In fact, it's just the opposite - you gain everything!

It's the deal of a lifetime, and all you have to do is accept it. If you haven't taken advantage Christ's offer, I strongly encourage you to do so today. Like all great deals, it's available for a limited time only. Once your life is over, the deal is no longer on the table. Right now, it's available free of charge to as many people as are willing to accept it. It could all be yours - an opulent mansion with great neighbors. A personal relationship with God Almighty. Eternal life. Wealth beyond belief. It's yours for the taking because Christ gave His life. Only a fool would turn down such a sweetheart deal. Don't be a fool.

"That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, 'No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.'" 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT)

"For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16 (NLT)

Britt Gillette is the author of BrittGillette.Com, a Christian website examining bible prophecy and emerging technology. Visit his site to learn more about this free real estate, no money down deal.

Stepping On Ceiling Plaster

Which Bible College Should I Attend?

Which Bible College should I go to? With so many great Christian Colleges available around the world it can get a bit overwhelming trying to find the one that is best for you.

I remember when I first felt called to go to bible college. I knew that I was called to go, but wasn't sure where. I was willing to go anywhere in the world but didn't know where to start.

It was a big step, which included giving up a well paid job, but I knew it was the right thing for me to do. Here's some quick thoughts on what I learned where important things for me to consider before choosing the right place to attend to help you in your ministry training needs;

1) Does the Christian College line up with what you feel God is calling you to do? For example there's no point going to a Christian College that specializes in worship leading if you feel called to community work

2) Does the Christian College carry similar values to you?

3) Have you done some background research on the Christian College to make sure its got a good track record? A simple Google search will help in this process.

4) Do you have peace about the Christian College you are looking at attending? Phil 4:6-7 talks about a peace that comes upon you that goes past your understanding. The peace that you feel on the inside. If you can learn to live according to this God given inner peace, then you will know that its a God thing!

Once you have followed these steps, you should get a better idea of whether the Christian College you are looking at is right for you. I know my time at Bible College was life changing. I hope yours is too!

Benjamin James is founder of Bible College Guide.com http://www.biblecollegeguide.com and Christian Universities Guide.com http://www.christianuniversitiesguide.com . His passion is to build the body of Christ by helping people become trained and equipped for ministry through bible based training facilities.

Insulation Damage

The Man Who Had Everything

In this text Mark does an excellent job of acquainting us with the dangers of wealth concerning Gods Kingdom even though there are several instances concerning wealth throughout the bible (e.g. Deuteronomy 8:18, Psalm 49:6, Proverbs 13:11, 1 Corinthians 10:24). However, if you explore deeper youll discover that wealth is representative of any vice that prevents us from a closer walk with God. Carpenter & McCown (1992) asserted To enter the kingdom one must die to self-autonomy and self-security (p. 865). Wealth in and of itself is not inherently dangerous but rather the strain that it put on our relationship with God. Leaders must constantly remind followers that there is something greater than ourselves.

The Quest for life

And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?

-Mark 10:17

This mans enthusiasm was readily apparent by his running. He had everything but eternal life but did not know how to obtain it. And his desire to enter into the kingdom of God was manifested in his inquiry for eternal life. What shall I do He asked as if it was something that is earned through a deed that must be accomplished. As if to say tell me what you did to obtain eternal life so that I can do it to. Eternal life equates to entering the kingdom of God. how hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God. (Mark 10:23).

Its also clear that the man respected Jesus which is evident by his kneeling. But his use of the adjective Good when addressing Jesus as Good Master also sheds light on this mans understanding of Gods kingdom. In other cases in the bible only God is referred to as being good (i. e. Psalm 38:8, Psalm 73:1). Master was a term applied to men of high standing such as a priest, scholar, or teacher. Master alone would have been sufficient enough for this man to demonstrate the his surrender to the wisdom of Jesus. This man viewed Jesus as legendary and someone who achieved this status on his own. But this descriptive word Good implied that it was possible for the man, who considered himself a good man, to be like Jesus or in essence like God.

And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one, that is, God.

-Mark 10:18

In this verse, Jesus corrects the man without rebuking him and reminds him that only God is good. Jesus was not denying his own divinity but rather reminding the man that he must not appeal to the humaness in Him but rather to God. Funk & Hoover (1993) suggested that this was Jesuss attempt to refocus attention on God, rather than on himself, as generally in line with Jesus disposition. (p. 91). Jesus may have been merely rejecting a compliment to prevent envy or maybe he wanted the man to understand that only God is good and this is not something that he could achieve. He was forcing the man to recognize that his only hope was in reliance on God alone and that eternal life was a gift from God.

Every manager has had a new protg that was eager and motivated to learn all that she could so that she could in turn contribute to the organization. Her motivation may be to win a promotion or the opportunity to breathe life into an organization. As a mentor, if you help mentees create a satisfying new vision for their life or work, mentees will do most of what is necessary to bring the vision to reality. (Shea, 2002, p. 44). Many people can visualize the goal to be obtained which in turn becomes their driving factor. However, many people get stuck in a rut or are unable to visualize the goal.

These emotions are often combined with thoughts or feelings such as disappointment, embarrassment, or dissatisfaction. Shea (2002) argued The capacity to detect the emotions and feelings of others and to respond appropriately is a critical art of mentoring. Overlooking the feelings that motivate people can limit a mentors effectiveness because feelings inspire people to get things done. Jesus recognized the mans passion for eternal life and therefore chose to handle the situation with caring.

Not Just Hearers of the Law

Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultry, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother. 20And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I obsewrved from my youth.
-Mark 10:19-20

Here, Jesus mentions all six commandments that prohibit wrong doing against another person (i.e. Exodus 20:12-16). The prohibition of fraud is representative of the tenth commandment against covetousness. To covet is to desire something with evil motivation. To defraud is to cheat, deceive, or beguile someone which is ignited by evil motivation. To break Gods commandments inwardly is equivalent to breaking them outwardly. Jesus was merely testing the man with the recital of the commandments. Funk and Hoover (1993) indicated that every Judean or Christian should know these commandments and that Jesus rehearsal of them was scarcely a distinctive statement. (p. 91). Being wealthy, one would expect that it would be easy for this man to follow the commandments known to everyone. The difficulty for this man was understanding that the kingdom of God is a gift that must be received after all obstacles have been removed.

Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.

-Mark 10:21

In recognizing the mans enthusiasm, as any good mentor would do, Jesus did not shame the man by exposing is failure to grasp the spirtual depth of the kingdom of God. The mans problem was his wealth which prevented him from his spiritual walk with God. There is no indication that the command to sell all of his possesions was meant for all Christians but rahter it was the obstacle that prevented this particular man from trusting Jesus. This man needed to remove this vice from his life but the treasure of salvation is not something that can be earned by simply giving up your material goods but is also received by following Jesus; take up the cross, and follow me. Carpenter and McCown (1993) maintained that the mans great wealth is developed as a symbol of the problem of faith. (p. 865). The mans riches was his vice and he needed to remove it before he could enter the kingdom of God.

Leaders guide protgs in shifting their context to envision worthy goals and move toward their fulfillment. When a leader sees a circumstance in a larger, more meaningful context and is willing to explain it, that leader is in fact creating the context, calling everyones attention to the idea that the context is greater than what first appears. (Pearce, 2003, p. 94). When followers have an understanding of what the organizational context is and are able to put it into perspective, change is inevitable. When others havent considered the context that the leadership has considered; they must be properly informed so that they can make sense of it.
Vices & Wealth: Accumulation of Non-necessities

And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possesions.

-Mark 10:22

The tragic decision to turn away reflected this mans greater love for his wealth than his desire for eternal life. Wealth refers whatever spiritual problem or vice Christians happen to be facing. Vice is the opposite of virtue. In this sense, the word vice comes from the Latin word vitium, meaning failing or defect. One way of organising the vices is as the corruption of the virtues. A virtue can be corrupted by nonuse, misuse, or overuse. Thus the cardinal vices would be lust (nonuse of temperance), cowardice (nonuse of courage), folly (misuse of a virtue, opposite of wisdom), and venality (nonuse of justice).

For people to listen to others without filters of fear or suspicion, trust is the fundamental requisite. If leaders want followers to take up the organizational banner and follow them, then they must build trust and commitment. Followers will give their hearts and souls to authority figures who say, You really matter, no matter how small the followers contributions may be. (Goffee and Jones, 2001, p. 171). The man had excellent credentials and moral character and he was expecting Jesus to compliment him for his diligence and hard work. The key for todays leaders is to offer constructive criticism in the form of positive feedback as evident in Jesus comment in Mark 10:21, One thing thou lackest, or in other words the only thing you lack. followership implies commitment, but never without conditions. The follower wants the leader to create feelings of significance, community, and excitement. When leaders herald the significance of an individuals work, they are rewarded with loyalty, even obedience. And after all that Jesus had said to encourage and engage this enthusiastic man, he still refused to let go of that which constrained him.

A Kingdom At Hand

Marks Gospel describe Jesus as proclaiming the Kingdom as something that was at hand, and about to break out at present, and not merely a future reality (see Mark 1:15). This might provide another reason why the man was running in Mark 10:17. He knew that the kingdom was at hand and wanted to reserve his seat. Mark clearly illustrates the care Jesus takes in addressing this man. Its obvious that the man is sincere in his quest for eternal life.

Finally, all that we do as leaders must be done out of love for the whole person. It is who we are and our interactions with others that will resonate throughout the organization. Jesus response to this man was prompted by Love Then Jesus beholding him [the rich young man] loved him (Mark 10:21). Mark is the only one who tells us this, as though to show that without love service is barren. (Pink, 1921, p. 34).

References

Carpenter, Eugene and McCown, Wayne (1992). Asbury Bible Commentary. Grand Rapids, Michgan. The Zondervan Corporation.

Funk, Robert W. and Hoover, Roy W. (1993). The Five Gospels. The Search for the Authentic Words of Jesus. New York, NY. Polebridge Press.

Holy Bible (1985). King James Version Study Bible. Grand Rapids, Michgan. The Zondervan Corporation.

Pearce, Terry. (2003). Leading Out Loud : Inspiring Change Through Authentic Communication. San Francisco John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Pink, Arthur W. (1921). Why Four Gospels. Grand Rapids, Mich. Christian Classics Ethereal Library.

Shea, Gordon F. (2002). Mentoring: How to Develop Successful Mentor Behaviors. Menlo Park, California. Course PTR.

Goffee, Robert and Jones, Gareth. (2001) Followership: Its Personal, Too. Boston, Mass. Harvard Business Review On Breakthrough Leadership: Harvard Business School Press.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lieutenant Kenneth Rice is an Active Duty Naval Officer stationed in Norfolk VA. Lieutenant Rice is a graduate of Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia where he received a Masters of Science in Educational Leadership and an Education & Training Management Subspecialty. He is currently enrolled in the Naval War College completing the Joint Professional Military Education Phase I and at Regent University working towards a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership.

Concrete Stained Sheathing

Comedy Writing Secrets

Instead of trying to tell you about comedy writing for the stand-up comedy stage...

Let me show you one approach to comedy writing that you may be able to use right now.

Comedy writing shouldn't start from a blank sheet of paper. It should start from an observation, experience, opinion or perspective on a particular topic.

Here's an actual news headline that I saw today:

Man calls 911 as he struggles with police

Using this single headline sentence, I don't really have to much comedy writing at all to get a laugh. This headline by itself represents a guaranteed big laugh and the beginnings of a full blown stand-up comedy skit should I decide to expand it.

Here's how I would use a bit of comedy writing skill to turn this single news headline into a beginning stand-up comedy skit:

"I was online, looking at the news

I saw this news headline:

Man calls 911 as he struggles with...

The police"

I can guarantee that if delivered properly to an audience, these few lines will get a huge laugh every time.

Here's why:

Comedy Writing Secret #1: The sentences above are broken up by my own natural breath pauses (when we speak, we DON'T talk to the end of a sentence if it's a long sentence. It is broken up with natural breath pauses).

A big factor in comedy writing and editing stand-up comedy material is to capture your own natural speaking rhythm when you are writing your comedy material down on paper.

Comedy Writing Secret #2: The delivery of this bit is critical to its ability to generate the big laugh. An attitude of shear disbelief will probably get the greatest laughter response when delivering this stand-up comedy skit.

Comedy Writing Secret #3: In order to get the maximum laughter from this bit, it will be important that there is a 1-2 second pause after this line:

Man calls 911 as he struggles with...

This allows the audience to quickly form a visual in their mind of who or what the man is struggling with. Let me assure you, they won't visualize the police because that's who you are calling when you call 911.

In other words...

This single pause (represented by three dots ...) is a key comedy writing factor for getting the most laughs out of this material.

Comedy Writing Secret #4: You will need to pause for laughter after this line:

The police

HINT: A 1-2 second pause after this line can make the difference between a small laugh and a big one. The look on your face and the associated body language that you display as you deliver these two words will dictate the size of the laugh you will get.

Comedy Writing Secret #5: It would be very easy to expand upon the bit above by simply reacting to the news headline using your own sense of humor.

Here's the bottom line:

Comedy writing for stand-up comedians is much more involved than merely reciting words from a piece of paper.

If you are serious about comedy writing that gets you RESULTS on the stand-up comedy stage, check out the link below in my resource box.

Steve Roye is a globally recognized expert in stand-up comedy material development and performance improvement. He has just released a report called Starting Your Stand-up Comedy Act: Your First 60 Seconds at: http://realfirststeps.com/standupcomedysecrets/free/par1

Wood Attic Vents

The Abomination of Desolation

The abomination of Desolation.
There is a misconception of the prophecy's of Christ, Daniel, Isaiah, and Ezekiel concerning the time of the abomination of desolation. There have been many desolations and times of desolation in Israel. Many of these caused much hardships and even death to the House of Israel.

The Babylonian Captivity, Jer 25:11 And this whole land shall be a desolation, and an astonishment; and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years.
Jer 44:22 So that the LORD could no longer bear, because of the evil of your doings, and because of the abominations which ye have committed; therefore is your land a desolation, and an astonishment, and a curse, without an inhabitant, as at this day. Ezr 9:7 Since the days of our fathers have we been in a great trespass unto this day; and for our iniquities have we, our kings, and our priests, been delivered into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, to captivity, and to a spoil, and to confusion of face, as it is this day.

The House of Israel has rejected Christ as the Messiah and are still under the law to a point. The Daily sacrifices have been put aside because of the natural law of man, but they justify this by the verse, Obedience is better than Sacrifice. This will end in the days of the anti-Christ, which will allow the renewing of the Red Heifer Sacrifices within the 3rd temple. Which I must say that many scholars do not believe in.
Dan 12:11 And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days.
What we are going to look deeper at is the end days.
Jewish 76.4%, Muslim 16%, Arab Christians 1.7%, other Christian 0.4%, Druze 1.6%, unspecified 3.9% (2004)(C.I.A. World Fact Book)

The abomination of desolation.
The Daily sacrifices and The abomination of desolation, as spoken of by Daniel, is a subject of much controversy among many bible Scholars. There are those that teach that these two events have already taken place in the Days of Caesar,as many are teaching.

This prophecy has nothing to do with, Rome nor Caesar. Prophecy must be looked at very carefully and be regarded by not single events, but as a string or combination of events. Those things spoken of the abomination of desolation and the third temple are future events backed up by Scripture. Israel is not allowed by natural or should I say mans law, to accomplish animal sacrifices.

This interpretation from T.S.K. Is one that I disagree with, take a look;
the abomination: Heb. to set up the abomination, etc. Probably Mohammedanism, which sprang up in power the same year as the papal, ad 606; and 1,290 years from that time will be ad 1896, and 1,335 years ad 1941.

The abomination of desolation will be a statue of the anti-Christ that will be placed inside the third temple. Many scripture back this up. This attempt to work time and dates to justify interpretation is not the way to interpret scripture, many try to look at past events and match Bible prophecy to it, this is a grave mistake and leads to faulty or false interpretations.
Mar 13:14 But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:
Isa 28:22 Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord GOD of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.

The best reference to this is in Revelations 19:20; And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. This is the abomination of desolation as the end of the anti-Christ; read and understand, them that worshipped his image.
Mohammedanism(Islam) is not older than Christianity nor the Jewish religion, but it will play and important part in the desolation of Israel as spoken of by Christ.
Therefore, Rameses, nor the Caesars of Rome, have not fulfilled prophecy of the end days.

Many use this part of Mark 13:14, to justify calling Caesar the anti-Christ for He had an image of Himself constructed and forced many to worship his image as God, but there were Kings before and after that have done the same thing. Dan 3:14 Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not;, The point of the matter with all these false god images is that they never fulfilled the prophecy's of the end days such as these;

Rev 13:13-14; And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men,
And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.
Rev 13:15 And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.

Dan 7:25-26; And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.
But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end.

2Th 2:9-10; Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,
And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

What Caesar never fulfilled is this verse of prophecy; Dan 9:27; And he(The Anti-Christ.) shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Also this verse was not fulfilled by any King yet; Mat 24:15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Key words here; the abomination of desolation (Image)stand in the holy place.
Luke 21:32; Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. This study is just the tip of the Prophecy of the abomination of desolation.
ars.

Temple of Spirit & Truth Ministries A.R.Smith Ministries http://www.ourchurch.com/member/a/arsmithsermons/

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God Speaks Prophetically About Todd Bentley

I am the same God of Moses. I am the Father of nations and if you are a Christian I am your eternal Father. My church it seems is in the wilderness with only a partial anointing of My Spirit. Signs and wonders are not commonplace in the West. So many voices cry out in unbelief.

So many negative voices speak about Todd Bentley, so many people in unbelief rise up in judgment of MY outpouring in Florida. So many people making a name for themselves with what they write about Him.

I delight in Todd and I send my angels to his crusades and my Holy Spirit turns up with power and with the anointing. And yes he has tattoos and he says "Bam" when he lays hands on people. So many people are saying negative things about him and he is my son coming with power.

Nothing has changed. There were mockers of Moses and mockers of John the Baptist and mockers of My Son Jesus. In each generation there are Pharisees people with a form of the religion of Christ, but denying the power of the gospel.

Isn't it enough that I heal through Todd's gift? Does he have to provide doctors letters to confirm healings have taken place? What does he have to do to silence the critics?

He can do nothing!

The mockers will always exist. Ever willing to speak bad of a person that my anointing rests on. You'll remember my Son said to "beware when all men speak well of you."

I am the God of Todd Bentley and He is my anointed healer. He isn't healing in his own name and most of the time he isn't even laying hands of people for them to be healed, My Holy Spirit is healing them.

You can mock my anointed healer. In years to come there are going to be even more weirder prophets and healing evangelists.

Have you ever wanted to see a clairvoyant but the Bible forbids it? Did you know that there are people in churches with a gift of prophecy that can get a message off God for you? You can ask questions of them and they can take the questions to God for you. Eighty percent of the church don't use these people as they don't think the gift of prophecy exists anymore but the people that do use them get tremendously blessed.If you are not a Christian just say that in your email and the prophet will be more sensitive to you. Come and request a free personal prophecy today at http://www.personal-prophecy-free.net

Bottom Of Wall Damaged From Water

Building Your Dream Home Green

In this day and age, there is a big push for everything around you to be built green. That means that it is better for the environment in many different ways. There are many different components of each individual home that when combined, make for an earth friendly space to live in. Building your own home and building it green requires quite a bit of knowledge in the ways of what is earth friendly and what isn't.

There are numerous ways that you can accomplish building your prairie plans house. The first and foremost item that most of us know about is starting with the use of energy efficient appliances. These specially labeled appliances use less energy for heating, cooling and the dispensing of water. The appliances also generate less greenhouse gas emissions which in turn lead to less air pollution. Not only are these energy efficient appliances better for the environment, they are also friendlier for your pocketbook. These special appliances can save the average household up to 30% on their electricity bill in one year.

Another way to save the environment might be less obvious to you and me. One of the best ways to build your colonial home plans into a green home is by reusing items that would have otherwise been considered waste materials. A good example of this is by recycled glass countertops. Not too many people know about these revolutionary countertops, but they don't get much greener than these. These countertops are made out of waste glass, such as bottles and windows. The end result is a countertop that is extremely earth friendly. The glass isn't porous, so you don't have to worry about applying a coat of sealer. Nothing could be more innovative than one of these glass countertops.

One more way to make your ranch style home plans turn into your green home is to install a tankless water heater. A standard water heater continuously heats the water that the tank is holding regardless of whether hot water is needed or not. Not only is this using way more energy than is necessary, it is most likely contributing to your high utility bills. With a tankless water heater, water is heated only when the hot water is turned on. When the hot water is turned off, the water is no longer heated, saving a tremendous amount of energy.

No matter what are doing in your home to make it greener it is already helping the environment. Every little thing that each of does contributes to a healthier earth. Even if all you can do is to change out your regular light bulbs for a lower energy fluorescent light bulb, even that is a great attempt. When it comes to saving the earth, no attempt is too small.

If you are looking for a prairie plans house or colonial home plans be sure to visit House Plans and More for more information. House Plans and More also has a wide variety of ranch style home plans.

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7 Reasons Why DIY Solar Power Makes Sense

More and more, people are flocking to DIY Solar Power these days, as they search for an alternative to traditional energy sources, whether its to save money or help the environment DIY Solar Power certainly makes sense.

If your still trying to decide if building a solar project is for you, I can highly recommend, having a hand in a dozen of these kits being built (friends, family, neighborhood projects) and having worked as solar energy consultant for 15 years, has allowed me to form the opinion that these kits are great projects to build in more ways than one.

Its with this in mind I bring you 7 compelling reasons to undertake a DIY Solar Power project yourself.

7 Reasons Why DIY Solar Power makes sense

1. Afford ability : Building your own homemade solar panels will cost you around $200, compare this with normal solar installation fees (which can run into costs of $10,000 or more) and Im sure you will agree DIY solar power does indeed make sense.

2. Easy to assemble : Anyone can put one of thee kits together with materials found at your local hardware store.

3. Fun : Believe it or not, these projects are a lot of fun to put together, do what I did get the whole family involved!

4. Educational : From witnessing the change it has made in my family, particularly my son, I can vouch it has been a rewarding investment into their education. As a result of the project, they are now more aware and educated about environmental issues.

5. Environment : Solar is a renewable energy source which doesn't give off the emissions (in particular carbon) that other more traditional energy resources unfortunately do.

6. Be a role model : You can take the lead in your community and set the example for those around you to follow.

7. Save Money : Lets face it the reasons most people go down the solar energy route is because it saves them money. Aside from the savings you make on installation costs, once installed solar energy is free! You can slash as much as %80 off your power bill depending on the level of solar energy dependence you employ in your household.

So there you have it, 7 reasons why DIY Solar Power makes sense. I hope this helps you make up your own mind and encourages you to try one of these projects yourself, they really are a lot of fun and with the guides available online they are very easy to put together.

Ready to get started? then check out the following link for more information DIY Solar Power.

If your serious about saving money on your energy bill and you want to do your bit for the environment, check out the following link DIY Solar Power Kits reviewed

Jon Elsdon is a Solar Energy Consultant and Environmentalist. Jon is editor of DIY Solar Power

Insulation Damage

Build Your Own Solar Panels For Cheap

Lots of people nowadays are opting to build solar panels for their purposes, in order to cut down monthly power bills and to save a good deal of money over time. The process of collecting and generating electricity from solar energy can be done very easily and by doing it you don't release any residues that harm our environment, unlike traditional fossil fuels. There are a few basic materials that you need in order to construct your solar panel units. You will need a multitester, an electrical stove, water, metal scissors, sandpaper, salt, copper flashing sheets and a couple of alligator copper leads. The general belief of the people is that these materials are expensive and can't be installed easily, which is not true.

The following are the reasons to why we have to use the sun for power.

- By generating electricity from the sun, you can save more or less 80% of your monthly power bill.

- For the use of green energy, you can get IRS tax deductions.

- The extra energy is sold to the local electrical company and can earn extra money.

- Conserve your surroundings by utilizing renewable and clean source of energy.

Choosing the best location for installing these solar panels is very important. They can be installed on roof tops, which is the preferred location. If it is not possible there, you can install them in your back yard. The main point here is that they should get as much sunlight as possible without any obstructions. If you want to opt for ready made commercial ones, be aware that they are very expensive.

For a homemade unit it costs around $200 but for commercial models you have to spend up to $3000 and even more if you consume a great deal of power.

The cheapest option for installing solar panels is to go with DIY Solar Panel Instructions which include detailed instructions, step-by-step video walk-throughs and even locations to get all of your materials as cheap as possible.

With DIY solar panel instructions you can be living off the grid, on free solar energy, for as little as a $200 start up cost.

Start saving money and the environment today, what are you waiting for?

Cellulous Attic Insulation

DIY Solar Panels For Your Home

Are you interested in a DIY project that will save you some big cash and help improve our environment at the same time? Say 'hello' to DIY solar power & green energy solutions, simple step-by-step guides that can teach you how to build DIY solar panels for your own home.

Just a few years ago, on August 6th, 2003, a brand new photovoltaic (solar) cell was revealed. This new cell was extremely efficient and capable of converting 36% of the suns rays into pure electricity. Prior to this new technology, solar cells could only convert about 10-15% of the suns rays into electricity. With the new photovoltaic technology, solar power ideals have really taken off and become more available.

Only about 8% of the energy produced in the United States comes from renewable energy sources. About 6.5% of that energy comes from hydro-electric dams and the other 1.5% comes from wind turbines and solar power panels. An astonishing 51% of our energy is still produced by burning dirty coal, and for this reason our environment is deteriorating faster than ever before. If we want our children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren to enjoy this beautiful planet, we need to make some changes.

Many people are aware of the state of our environment and more people are truly interested in renewable energy sources for their home than ever before. However, professional solar panel projects can cost a fortune. In fact a solar panel system can easily mount up to $10,000 if you're aiming to pull the plug from your power company. The problem is obvious; most families can't afford to install such a system.

Enter the world of DIY solar power! DIY solar power can cost a fraction of what a professional system would cost you. On top of that, once it's built and installed, it will continue to generate electricity for a lifetime. The one problem many people have in regards to DIY solar power is, well, how the heck to build such an advanced piece of technology?

Over the past year, many companies have been offering guides to DIY solar power and other green energy projects. Most of these guides also include DIY wind turbines for those that live in the windy parts of the world. I've done a fair amount of research on these guides and read some reviews. Most of the parts can be found at your local hardware store. However, if you live out in the country, you may find it a bit more difficult to find the solar cells. If that's that case you can just buy them online after doing a simple search.

The average family spends 20-25% of their income on energy each year. By picking up a DIY solar power guide and building the solar panels to generate your own electricity, you'll be doing your part and contributing to the green energy cause. Not only that but you'll have the satisfaction of doing it yourself. If I've sparked your interest, never fear, for you can read some reviews of the best guides on the market by clicking on the link above or the link below.

Let's keep it green!

http//www.DIYSolarPowerGuides.com - In-depth Reviews on the best DIY Solar Power Guides available.

Wood Repairs

Wind Turbine Kits For the Home - Are They a Waste of Your Money?

Wind turbine kits for the home are a great relieve to the average income home owners. Where ready built wind energy systems for the home can cost a few thousand dollars each, wind turbine kits make it affordable for everyone else to start using wind energy at home. But cheap as they are, do they really work?

The main purpose of using wind energy is to cut down on the usage of electricity from utility companies and help the user save money. So it is ironic that wind turbines cost high and are almost certainly beyond the reach of those who are greatly affected by high home electricity costs.

This is where wind turbine kits for the home come into the picture. The DIY kits cost not more than $50. Add in the materials (usually using recycled items) needed to build your own home wind turbine and you just need to invest less than $200 and a few hours over the weekend.

It is that simple to build one for your home. But now the question is, do they work well or even work at all?

This greatly depends on the kits that you purchase. There are several wind turbine kits for the home that work as well as the commercial versions and can generate enough electricity to power the whole house while some can only produce enough power at best to charge your mobile.

One plus point for such homemade wind turbine kits is the risk of wasting your money is much lower than if you were to purchase a $3000 wind turbine model. Additionally, with a low setup cost, you can even build more than one wind turbine for your home and maximize your power bill savings.

So if your electricity bills are a headache every month, get a highly recommended home wind turbine kit and build your own wind turbine to supplement your electricity supply and slash your power bills today.

It would be absolutely nifty to be the first in your neighborhood to produce electricity for free!

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Energy Conservation Tips - Essentials of a Homemade Solar Panel

One important energy conservation tip is use of homemade solar panels to generate a clean, renewable, ecologically-friendly alternative energy source power household appliances. If you are interested in reducing dependence on fossil fuels while reducing your electricity costs this article can get you started on the path to a "greener" home.

Why solar panels? With the ever-present threat of Global Warming looming over our heads, clean and renewable energy is an appealing alternative to electricity generated from fossil fuels. Solar energy can reduce the monthly cost of electricity. It is a technology amenable to DIY projects.

Solar panels harness the power of sunlight to generate electricity through the use of photovoltaic (PV) cells. If money is no object, a contractor can be hired to obtain and install a solar system for you. For those of us in the "other" category, there are other less expensive options. These include purchasing solar panel kits, refurbishing used solar panels, and the ultimate DIY of making panels from component parts. Solar panels can create a more self-sufficient household, which meets all or a large portion of household electrical energy needs. The ideal scenario would have the electricity generated exceed the household needs permitting electricity to be sold back to the Grid.

Although the there are other component required for more complex systems, the basic elements of a homemade solar panel system include:
-Solar panel(s)
-Charge controller
-Battery
-Inverter

Solar panel - The fundamental and essential component of a solar energy system is the solar panel or panels, consisting of a series of PV cells, which are combined to generate an electrical current usable in real time. In the solar panel, PV cells are linked together to generate an electrical current which is the sum of the currents produced by each cell. The serious DIY can obtain PV cells, attach them to a plywood board, wire them together, and cover them with glass for protection. Buying a kit can provide the "less handy" of us with an option which is still less than hiring a contractor but much less cumbersome since the part all contained in the kit.

Charge controller or regulator - This unit controls the charging of the battery so as to prevent overcharging. It also tracks the battery discharge status during the evening. By doing this, the charge regulator maximizes the life of each battery, thereby maximizing the efficiency of your solar energy system.

Battery - The electricity not immediately used is stored by a battery or series of batteries. Deep-cycle or marine batteries are preferable to automobile batteries because they are capable of storing all or virtually all of the electricity generated by the solar panels, thus minimizing waste.

Inverter - Virtually all of our electrical appliances utilize AC or Alternating Current, whereas the electricity generated and stored in our solar powered system is DC or Direct Current. Therefore, the Inverter is the key to converting DC current into AC, creating electricity to power everything from your lights to the refrigerator.

If a solar panel system is designed with the intent of generating enough electricity to "sell back" to the Grid, then the components will include the AC Breaker Panel, and a Kilowatt-per-Hour Indicator. The KW per Hour indicator, for example, is necessary to track how much current is provided to and from the grid to determine the charge or credit that appears on your monthly electric bill.

As you consider what path you will take on your energy conservation quest, don't forget some of the least expensive and most cost-effective options such as Energy-Saver fluorescent light bulbs.

In summary, homemade solar panels can be an important part of a plan to implement energy conservation tips. Homemade solar panel systems for the DIY enthusiast can be obtained in kit form in which all of the components are readily available, or they can be obtained as new or used components from home improvement stores to eBay.

Dan Kudo is a healthcare professional who provides information on solar panels and other sources of alternative energy in the form of articles and web pages for everyone to enjoy. Check out this page for more on free information on solar panels and other sources of alternative energy.

Wood Post And Beam Connection

The Residential Solar Power Systems and Its Benefits

The benefits of residential solar power systems are boundless and limitless. It is almost as infinite as the energy of the sun itself. Tapping into the rays of the sun has become one of the popular alternative sources of energy today especially when the whole world is worried about global warming and the skyrocketing costs of fossil fuel. This still does not include the conflict fossil fuel makes among countries when this resource becomes scarce. This article will focus on the primary benefits to acquire this kind of technology cheaply.

There are two primary types of residential solar power systems. It is the stand-alone system and the grid-tie system. In the stand-alone system, it is not connected to the electric grid. With the grid-tie system, the power grids are connected to the electric grids. The grid-tie system is expensive compared to the stand-alone system.

One of the great benefits of this type of energy-producing system is that one can save on electric bills. Records show that you can save as much as 80 percent of your current bills. There is even a chance that your system will yield excess power, most especially when the weather is right. If you have the grid-tie system, you might be able to sell that excess to the electricity providers.

The most important benefit of solar power is the contribution you make in lessening pollution. Your home is no longer dependent on outside source of electricity therefore, there is slightly a lesser demand for electricity that comes from fossil fuels like the ones produced by electric companies. Your contribution may appear to be too insignificant, but your example will certainly open the eyes of your neighbors and friends. They will be able to see the sensibility of tapping on the sun for energy.

Presently, construction of such systems is expensive and very challenging in different ways. The materials are expensive and only a few companies offer installation services. But do not despair; there are many suitable online guides that offer step-by-step instructions on how to go about making your own renewable energy unit.

Some guides would suggest alternative sources of materials and have innovative ideas to lessen the cost. Remember, whatever strategy you use, setting up a solar-to-electric energy system will cost you money. In spite of the initial cost of the system, more and more people are becoming aware of the benefits and practicality of using residential solar power systems.

Tired of high electric bills? Discover how thousands of families are using homemade solar power systems to power their homes!

Roof Truss Repair

Energy Vending Machines

The energy vending market has exploded over the last couple of years. Before vending machines used to sell gumballs and candy, now they are selling energy chews, energy mints, and energy shots. The energy market is bringing in so much money that there are now business opportunity companies selling gumball machines and saying they are worth $600 each because they sell there newest energy product. I think it would be better if you went to an online retailer of gumball machines, buy the machine for $39 instead of $600 and than put the product in that vending machine. Your return on investment would be so much faster. Its understandable if the energy vending machine is an exclusive machine made to sell the specific energy product but what I have found with a few of these companies is a plain gumball machine with a gumball wheel inside of it. The product usually isn't round so you have to put each on of them into a special capsule. Try to put 4000 energy mints into 4000 round 1 inch capsules. That is gonna be a chore.

If you search on Google under vending machines you will find many different kinds to choose from. You need to do your homework and make sure that you are paying a fair price. There are tons of gumball machine manufacturers, such as T.Pico International, Seaga Manufacturing, LYPC, Oak, and many more. They all sell gumball machines at very fair prices.

On the other hand there are energy vending machines where you do need a special made machine to vend your energy product. Energy chews are very popular these days. Instead of putting them in a gumball machine and needing to fill up capsules, there is a special unique vending machine that was made. All you need to do is place the square chew in the vending machine, no capsules necessary. Than there is the energy shot. This product is one of the fastest growing products in the whole energy market. At first it was only able to be sold over the counter. Mad Dog Energy has designed a vending machine that sells energy shots exclusively, making it a breeze to place them into any size office and retail establishments without a cashier.

The energy vending market is exploding. If you choose to be a part of the energy vending machine market, make the right choice. Stay away from gumball machines that need special capsules to sell your product. As we all know plastic is not a good thing in our environment and you will need plenty of it to sell some of these products out of gumball machines. The last thing you want to hear in a good location is , get this vending machine out of here because it is making my location a mess with all these empty capsules. Do your homework and start of with vending machines that are made for energy products.

Vend123 is America's number 1 vending machine community.

Home Water Heater Damage

Anna Nicole Smith Reveals The Secret From Heaven

Anna Nicole Smith: My Dear Dannielynn, I 10ve you so much, I miss you so much, my heart is breaking, I cry for you. But alas now I am free from the liars and backstabbers. Be Happy I Am. I Am with Daniel now in Heaven.

Beware of the mockers and scoffers who will hound you all around all the days of your life like Lisa Marie Presley. (Psalm 1). Her father was the King of Rock and Roll. Larry Birkhead is asking the court to order a DNA test on me now. This is to determine if I am your mother. Jesus was in a house talking to some people when his mother and brothers showed up at the door asking to see him. People today are still arguing over who was the father of Jesus Christ? Jesus said, Who is my mother and who are my brothers? Jesus pointed at his Jewish disciples and said, Behold you are my mother and my brothers. For whoever shall do the will of my Father who is in Heaven, follow the 10 commandments, 10ve, these people are my brothers and sisters and mother. (Matt. 12:46-50).

A house, the Earth divided against itself cannot stand. The religious leaders of Christianity, Islam and Judaism call all non group members non believers in God. Jesus called the religious leaders of his day following the Old Testament, (except for the 10 commandments, the Word of God, 10ve), like the Christian, Muslim and Jewish religious leaders of today venomous snakes spewing their poisonous lies and blind guides leading you all into the fire. (Matt. 23). Yet the fact is that Jews, Christians and Muslims all believe in the very same God of Mount Sinai who carved the 10 commandments in stone and gave them to Moses 3,200 years ago. A rose by any other name is still a rose. Vicky Lynn Hogan is still Anna Nicole Smith your 10ving mother. God of Mount Sinai is named Allah and God the Father and Jesus Christ and The Holy Spirit and Yehovah and Elohim and I Am Who I Am and I Shall Be As I Shall Be but He is still God of Mount Sinai. Jews, Christians and Muslims are all believers in the very same God of Mount Sinai who appeared as a burning bush to Moses.

The century has turned and life must cease on Earth unless there is peace. Your religious leaders divide you by focusing on the 1% of religious beliefs you disagree upon instead of uniting you all by focusing on the 99% of religious beliefs you hold in common. 2 billion Christians and 1 billion Muslims all believe that the Jewish born Rabbi Jesus Christ was born to the Virgin Mary and was the Messiah who is to come again. (Koran Chapter 3:40-43, The Temple of Love page 2). Heaven is like the YMCA filled with laughing happy children of every religion race creed and color all playing beautifully together. God is like gravity, it doesnt matter if you believe in it or what name you call it, gravity and God will still pull you in the right direction.

Anna Nicole Smith: Beware Dannielynn of the mockers and scoffers of Earth (Psalm 1). They will surely say that your mother was a harlot. Remember what Jesus said, Truthfully I say unto you that the tax collectors and the harlots will go into the Kingdom of God before you. For John came unto you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him but the tax collectors and the harlots did believe him. (Matt. 21:31-32). You must 10ve God and you must 10ve yourself and your neighbor in the little village called earth. (Mark 12:29-31).

Bury me, please. Jesus said, Woe unto you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge and you entered not in yourselves, and those that were entering in you blocked. (Luke 11:52). The people gathered to stone to death a woman who had committed adultery. Jesus said, Let he who has not sinned cast the first stone. (John 8:7). No on cast any stones and they all slinked away. For 4 years J. Howard Marshall begged me to marry him. Had I been a gold digger I would have married him on the spot for I was poor, but I did not. Finally after 4 years I married J. Howard Marshall because I fell in love with him. I fell in love with the timeless Holy Spirit inside of him. The Pharisees asked Jesus when the Kingdom of God would come. Jesus said, The Kingdom of God will not be able to be observed and people shall not say Look here, look there because the Kingdom of God is within you. (Luke 17:20-21).

Jesus said that in Heaven people do not marry and they do not die because they are angels, the children of God. (Luke 21:36). Jesus said God is a spirit. (John 4:24). Who is your father my darling Dannielynn? Jesus said, Is it not written in your law I said you are Gods? (John 10:34). Jesus was referring to Psalm 82. Who is your father Dannielynn? God said, I say you are Gods, children of God, all of you. (Psalm 82:6). You have your answer now Dannielynn. Your father is God. The father of every child on Earth today is God. You are all God, you are all part of God, and you are all children of God. The Holy white light Spirit of God lives in every child on Earth today.

Anna Nicole Smith: Dannielynn the fox in The Little Prince said, Words are a source of misunderstanding. The one word that is the biggest source of misunderstanding which is leading the Jewish and Christian and Muslim children against each other now into the real live Hell of Nuclear World War 3 is the Hebrew word Goyim in Psalm 2 of the Old Testament followed by Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The original Hebrew word Goyim in Psalm 2 means the non Jews. King David, the King of the Jews channeled Psalm 2 from God 3,000 years ago. God told King David, You are my son, (I Am your father). I have begotten you this day. Ask of me and I will make the Goyim your inheritance and the ends of the earth your possession. You shall smash the Goyim with a rod of iron and you will shatter the Goyim like a potters vessel.

Every Bible Scholar on Earth today knows that Christianity was born with Jesus Christ 1,000 years after the death of King David. When King James asked that the Old Testament be translated into English for Christianity, the Bible Writer had a problem. How could he translate the word Goyim properly? How could the Christian Bible say that God promised King David that he would smash every Goy, every non Jew, every Christian? To get around this, the Christian Bible writers changed the word of God, the word Goyim to the word Heathen. (Psalm 2:8 KJV). Heathen means non Christian. The N.R.S.V. Bible writers changed the word Heathen to the word nations, the non Christians. In around 650 AD the Muslims adopted the Old Testament for Islam and changed the word Goyim to infidel meaning non Muslim. Is Tom Cruise going to change the word Goyim to non Thetan? God through every prophet called your Holy Bibles except for His word 10ve shelters of lies and falsehoods which would cause you all to fall backwards and be broken and ensnared and taken. (Isaiah 28:9-15, The Temple of Love page 3.)

Dannielynn the spirit of God lives in every person on Earth. Everyone sits back and does nothing waiting for the Messiah to arrive to save them and conquer the world for them as the Bible Writers of Psalm 2 say. This is why God through every prophet especially Jesus Christ called your Holy Bibles forgeries except for the 10 commandments. God said, "They (the Bible Writers) say, 'Says the Lord', when the Lord has not sent them, and yet they wait for the fulfillment of THEIR word!" (Ezekiel 13:6). In the meantime God is inside of every person on Earth today screaming 10ve! 10ve yourself and 10ve your brothers and sisters. Stop murdering each other and stop telling lies about each other. You all have the same father.

Karen Fish is a writer currently living in Los Angeles California. The Temple of Love http://www.thetempleoflove.com/

Four Agreements

I Baptize You in the Name

There are those that teach Jesus only, or God only, in their churches, but we see, threw all of our reading, and studding, that these doctrines have major flaws. We teach as we have heard from the Spirit, we understand, by that same spirit.
Many are confused by what was written by Paul, so we are going to look there first before we reveal the truth of the matter.

"For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions(Strife in words or debate; quarrel; angry contest; controversy.) among you.

Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. (Here we see that many within the early Church, were fighting among themselves, stating that their baptism was the true one, and that the others were wrong.
We must remember, as Paul continues to state, that Jesus died for our sins, and God saves the individual, by the faith of one, on the name of His Son. There is no such thing as; "Jesus only", in the church, also this includes those that teach; "God only", for how can we separate God from Christ?

"I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ."
These statements were the ones confusing the Church, even with one being baptized in the name of Christ only, they also were confused, for they, or should I say, the ministers forgot what Christ had taught them about baptism, and how it was commanded, by Jesus, to be preformed, we will look at this later. This was a common mistake among the early church, and has made a reemergence here in these end days.
Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?

Paul's name didn't save anyone, for only threw the name of Jesus can anyone be saved, we see proof of this in;

Act 19:13-18; Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.

And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.
And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?
And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.

Is Christ divided? God forbid, for God, and Christ are one. Many do not believe in a Holy Trinity, but it exist. There is no way that it couldn't, for the Bible states that; "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one."(This is proof of the Holy Trinity, and cannot be understood as anything else.)
We cannot denigh the word, for the Word is Jesus.

I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;
Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.
And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other." (1Co 1:11-16)

"I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. (They were not able to absorb the full truth, being still of a mind that was on the physical, and not the spiritual.)
For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?(This same thing is happening in these end days.)
For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?
Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?
I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase." (1Co 3:2-7)

I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: (This is again proof of the Baptism of the Holy Ghost. The Baptism of Fire is a special Baptism for one, that will go threw much tribulation, in preaching, and testifying of, the Gospel.)
I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 3:11, Mark 1:8) (The Baptism of water does not save the individual, but rather is an open show of belief in Jesus Christ being the Son of God.)
And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. (John 1:33) (This is again proof of the Baptism of the Holy Ghost.) (For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. Act 1:5)

Now you can see that there are 4 Baptisms, the Holy Ghost, Water, Fire, Father, and Son.

The Baptism of water unto repentance.

The Baptism of Fire is a special Baptism.

The Baptism of the Holy Ghost, for the reception of spiritual power, and knowledge.

The Baptism of Father, and Son, for the completeness of the Trinity within all who believe.

How then are we to Baptize?

"And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:"
"in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:"
"in the name of"; These four little words bring about much controversy among the churches. This controversy comes from the Apostolic Churches that refuse to believe in the Holy Trinity, which the Bible proves exists.

This Baptism is not a choice, which many believe is in these statements from Paul; Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Act 2:38)
" Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?" (Rom 6:3) For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (Gal 3:27) "Into; Noting the passing of a thing from one form or state to another, inclusion.(Webster.)

These statements were not a contradiction of the commandment of Christ, but rather a vocal statement , showing that only threw Jesus Christ can one be saved. These verses are taken out of context, and must be explored deeper before taking them literally.
We see this in the words of; (Tit 3:4-6) But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost(The Spirit of God.);
Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;
We see here again that Paul was affirming the Baptism of all with the Trinity of God. God the Father, God the Saviour(Son), and God the Holy Ghost, these three are one, and cannot be separated. Many have a hard time understanding the concept of the Trinity, but it is easy to understand. If you need help in understanding let me know.

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. (Matthew 28:18-20) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:" ars.

Temple of Spirit & Truth Ministries
A.R.Smith Ministries
http://www.ourchurch.com/member/a/arsmithsermons/

Spiritual People I Admire

Another Insight on Mary Magdalene - Movie Video

This video has more information on Mary Magdalene, great video on advanced spiritual thinking.

If you're really seeking the kingdom of heaven, the glory of God and the true vision that Jesus had, check out some great Christian articles . These articles are designed to teach and educate Christians.

Low Energy People
Make A Live Out Of Your Life

The Whole Armor of God

"Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Ephesians 6: 11-12.

As a Christian we must embrace the battle that rages in the realm of the spirit. We being mind, body, and spirit must always first trust our spirit. This is the place that God speaks to our inner soul. This spirit also moves in a realm that is more real than our natural existence. As a child we move first in body then mind. As a young adult and older, maturity has us move more in our minds first. When we mature in Jesus Christ we learn that our mind must cling to the spirit of God.

When we accept this spirit of God it gives us power in the spirit realm that can directly affect what happens in this natural world. It is no doubt our battle is not in flesh and blood. We truly battle against demonic forces beyond our natural perception. These forces oppress and possess the minds and bodies of men. The fall of mankind from the first Adam till present day times has been affected by these forces. All Evil Spirits have a mission of diluting and destroying the message of Jesus Christ through whatever means necessary. This includes killing those who preach the true Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Knowing that Satan and his demonic forces look to destroy the works of good, Christians, must put on the "whole armor of God". These pieces include...The Breastplate Of Righteousness, The Shield Of Faith, The Belt Of Truth, The Shoes Of The Gospel Of Peace, The Helmet Of Salvation, and The Sword Of The Spirit.

1. The Breastplate Of Righteousness refers the a man keeping himself away from sin, therefore protecting him from death, which is the result of sin.

2. The Shield Of Faith is our protection from doubt in turn protecting us from all the lies and deception that exist in this world. Paul refers to these deceptions as "fiery darts of the wicked"

3. The Belt Of Truth is what keeps us from stumbling in our understanding of God. The bible says that we worship God in spirit and truth.

4. The Shoes Of The Gospel Of Peace refers to Gods desire that we be peacemakers. "Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you." 2 Cor. 13:11

5. The Helmet Of Salvation refers to mans choice to believe in Jesus Christ therefore securing a place for the soul(mind) in heaven.

6. The Sword Of The Spirit is the word of God. When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, Jesus fought him by quoting the word of God.

These pieces are essential to fighting against devils. If we choose to not embrace these principles it will certainly result in a spiritual death. Spiritual death is what cuts us off from God and this is why Satan works so hard to achieve this.

Friends, trust in God in all you do. "That ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand, stand therefore." Eph. 6:13-14

James Alford

http://www.singleseed.com

How To Win Friends

Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet, in the Company of the Biblical Prophets

Perhaps no other American is as controversial as Joseph Smith, Jr., the founder of the Mormon Church and a self-proclaimed prophet. Such claims as he made, to have been visited by God, the Father, and Jesus Christ; to have been called to be a prophet to preach the Gospel to a world in apostasy are at least shocking and incredible and at most outrageous. Joseph Smith, his life and his legacy deserve close attention, then, for if true, his claims are the most important message since the discovery of the empty garden tomb.

To understand the issue, however, one must first understand what a prophet is and only then can Joseph Smith be measured against this rubric. To dismiss Joseph Smith as a prophet because he does not fit ones own definition of prophet is a circular argument since that wholly depends upon the persons preconceived image of what a prophet is. We must, therefore, look to the Bible, the record of Gods prophets to begin to understand what a prophet is. In the popular imagination the role of a prophet is to tell the future. This is, however, only one aspect of a prophets calling and likely not a major one. So, what does the Bible tell us a prophet will be like?

There are two words in the Bible that are translated as prophet. One is the Hebrew word Nabi (or Navi), and the other is the Greek Prophetes. Both have the basic meaning of spokesman or one who proclaims something. A prophet of God, therefore, speaks in the name of, and hence with the authority of, God. A prophet says, Thus saith the Lord. Joseph Smith was such a spokesman. He spoke in Gods name. To him, the Lord said, I give unto you my servant Joseph to be a presiding elder over all my church, to be a translator, a revelator, a seer, and prophet (Doctrine and Covenants 124:125).

This mouthpiece of God speaks Gods word. The Lord said to Moses concerning Aarons role as Moses spokesman: Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet [hence, his spokesman] (Exodus 7:1). In a latter revelation to Moses the Lord said:

I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him (Deuteronomy 18:18).

Peter thus said in his epistle that prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost (2 Peter 1:21). The Doctrine and Covenants (hereafter D&C), which is a compilation of revelations given to modern prophets of the Mormon Church, echoes this statement saying that, whatsoever they [the prophets] shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation (D&C 68:4).

The Bible is a collection of the inspired words and deeds of prophets. Thus, the words of prophets become scripture. Isaiah was a man who saw great visions. Paul was a prophet whose inspirational teachings form the bulk of the New Testament. The revelations given to the Prophet Joseph Smith including the Book of Mormon and the visions and revelations recorded in the Doctrine & Covenants testify that Joseph Smith was a prophet. He spoke the words he received of God in visions and revelations. These words became scripture, just as in biblical times.

The message for which prophets are spokesmen is of the mission of Jesus Christ and the importance of obeying Gods commandments. In Revelation 19:10, an angel tells John that, the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. A prophet, who must by definition have the spirit of prophecy, must also therefore have a testimony of Jesus. Jesus commanded His disciples to read the scriptures, comprising essentially the Old Testament, explaining that, in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me (John 5:39). He later testified that every prophet wrote about Him:

These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me (Luke 24:44).

John the Baptist, of whom Jesus said, there is not a greater prophet, had as his primary mission to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. Of him, no record details miracles or great prophesies of the future. Instead, he taught the people to prepare themselves for Jesus coming and when that came he willingly stepped aside (see Luke 7:28 ff). Joseph Smith likewise testified of Jesus Christ. In a vision he received on February 16, 1832, he and an associate Sidney Rigdon saw Jesus Christ much as Paul had centuries earlier. They declared:

And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the FatherThat by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God (D&C 76:22-24).

For Joseph Smith, Jesus Christ was the central figure in every doctrine and deed. Joseph Smith taught that Jesus Christ atoned for the sins of all mankind and provides salvation to all those who love and serve him. Prophets also denounce sin and call people to repentances. In 2 Kings 17:13, we read:

blockquote>The LORD testified against Israel, and against Judah, by all the prophets, and by all the seers, saying, Turn ye from your evil ways, and keep my commandments and my statutes, according to all the law which I commanded your fathers, and which I sent to you by my servants the prophets.

It is the duty of prophets to call people to repent and return to God. This can be seen in many instances. In 2 Kings 12, we read that Nathan, the prophet, was sent to call David to repentance because of his sins with Bathsheba. Nehemiah was sent to call the people of his day to repent and rebuild the temple. Jonah was sent to preach against the wickedness of Nineveh. Joseph Smith said, This we believe to be our duty-to teach to all mankind the doctrine of repentance (History of the Church 2:255). It is the duty of a prophet to denounce sin, call people to repentance and to worship the God of Israel. This last duty, namely calling to worship the God of Israel is essential, for Moses warned that false prophets could accurately predict the future, but if they used these miracles to lead people away from the God of Israel, then they would be false prophets (Deuteronomy 13:1-10).

The Lord says further, If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream (Numbers 12:6). Prophets, then, have dreams and visions in which the Lord is made known unto them. Peter also mentions this as what may be termed the prophetic pattern. In Acts 10:39-44, Peter teaches that God reveals Jesus Christ to chosen witnesses, the prophets, who then teach the world about God. Every prophet is chosen by God, taught by angels or through dreams and visions and finally commissioned to teach others. Isaiah fits this pattern. In a vision recorded in Isaiah chapter 6, this great poet-prophet saw the Lord on His throne surrounded by angels. He is forgiven of his sins, and charged with a mission.

This vision and the charge given to the prophet is the Sowd, the sacred and oftentimes secret intimacy that prophets obtain with God. Sowd in Hebrew translates as counsel, assembly, secret, or divine intimacy. At its root it refers to private correspondence or counseling. The Prophet Amos said, Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret [Sowd] unto his servants the prophets (Amos 3:7). That is, the Lord will not act until He has revealed His counsel, His plans, and His secrets to the Prophets. Thus another role of a prophet is to be a diviner, through revelation, of Gods deed present and future. This can refer to prophesying the future, or to determining what work is of God right now and what His will is regarding human actions.

Joseph Smith and his mission fit this ancient pattern perfectly. As a young man, confused but full of faith, he prayed to God. According to href="http://scriptures.lds.org/js_h/1">Joseph Smiths own account, he saw in vision, just as Moses, Isaiah, and Stephen had, the God of Israel. Just as was the case with Isaiah his sins were forgiven and like Moses he learned the true nature of God. In subsequent visions he was taught the Gospel of Jesus Christ by angels and through multiple revelations which are recorded as sacred scripture in the Doctrine and Covenants. He was commissioned by God to translate the Book of Mormon as testimony to Jesus Christ and to Joseph Smiths own divine commission. He was shown Gods counsel and href="http://www.jefflindsay.com/LDSFAQ/FQ_prophecies.shtml">prophesied many things that have since occurred.

In connection with this divining of counsel, it is interesting to note that the Samaritan women whom Jesus met at the well in Sychar said, I perceive that thou art a prophet (John 4:19), when He told her about her life previous to meeting Him. Prophets, then, are given such spiritual insights as necessary to fulfill their missions. In this capacity a Prophet may rightly be called a Seer. When Saul sought out a man of God who could give him advice on what course he could take, the record states, Beforetime in Israel, when a man went to enquire of God, thus he spake, Come, and let us go to the seer: for he that is now called a Prophet was beforetime called a Seer (1 Samuel 9:9). A Seer, then, is one who sees what is ahead, who understand the operations of God in the world. He sees accurately not only the future, but also the present and the past. Through this divine insight he can perceive Gods workings in the world.

In a revelation given to Joseph Smith in November of 1831, the Lord said of Joseph Smiths mission:

Wherefore, I the Lord, knowing the calamity which should come upon the inhabitants of the earth, called upon my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., and spake unto him from heaven, and gave him commandments (D&C 1:17)

The reasons given were:

1. That every man might speak in the name of God the Lord (v. 20)
2. that faith also might increase (v. 21)
3. That mine everlasting covenant might be established (v. 22)
4. That the fullness of my gospel might be proclaimed by the weak and the simple (v. 23)

Joseph Smith was commissioned to be an instrument in the hands of God, but only one of many, who would lay the foundation of Gods Kingdom here in these days. As a Seer and Revelator he taught truth and revealed many things to come, as a Prophet he preached repentance in Gods name and taught the testimony of Jesus Christ, and as translator he translated and published the Book of Mormon. Finally, as a prophet he was a leader. In Hosea we read:

And by a prophet the LORD brought Israel out of Egypt, and by a prophet was he preserved (Hosea 12:13).

A prophet is set to lead the covenant people of the Lord. Paul said that the household of God is built upon a foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone (Ephesians 2:19-20). Apostles, as can be easily shown, are prophets also, since they have the spirit of prophecy which is the testimony of Jesus Christ, but as apostles they have a special mission to go forth and proclaim Jesus Christs resurrection (see Acts 1:22). Prophets and Apostles lead the people of God. In this capacity, Joseph Smith was the leader of the Mormon Church, called of God, and ordained an apostle of Jesus Christ, to be the first elder of this church (D&C 20:2). Until his death in 1844, he led the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a Prophet and Apostle of god. Joseph Smith guided the Mormon Church through persecution and trials.

It must be remembered, however, that prophet are human agents working for God and are thus fallible. James said of Elias (i.e. Elijah), that he, was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months (James 5:17). Commenting on this passage Joseph Smith said:

I was this morning introduced to a man from the east. After hearing my name, he remarked that I was nothing but a man, indicating by this expression, that he had supposed that a person to whom the Lord should see fit to reveal His will, must be something more than a man. He seemed to have forgotten the saying that fell from the lips of St. James, that Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, yet he had such power with God, that He, in answer to his prayers, shut the heavens that they gave no rain for the space of three years and six months; and again, in answer to his prayer, the heavens gave forth rain, and the earth gave forth fruit. Indeed, such is the darkness and ignorance of this generation, that they look upon it as incredible that a man should have any intercourse with his Maker. (Joseph Smith, History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 7 Vols. 2:302)

Of himself he later said, I never told you I was perfect; but there is no error in the revelations which I have taught (Joseph Smith, History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 7 Vols. 6:366). The Prophets and Apostles of God are human and hence fallible, but the inspired words they reveal, as Peter said, come from the Holy Ghost who is a revelator to mankind. Like Isaiah, Samuel, Moses, Noah, Paul, and Peter before him, Joseph Smith had his faults, which makes his miracles and teachings all the more amazing and inspiring, for God works always through weak and erring servants to accomplish His great purposes.

Perhaps it is the faults of the prophets that make some people reject them. Jesus Christ once remarked that, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house (Matthew 13:57). To neighbors, Jesus was merely a carpenter, the son of Joseph, but to those with faith He was the Messiah, the Son of God. Similarly with the prophets who, unlike Jesus, were not sinless, they are often rejected for trivial reasons. Some rejected Joseph Smith as a prophet because a business venture he participated in failed, or because he enjoyed playing sports. Others were offended by his denunciation of their actions. Finally, on June 27, 1844, Joseph Smith was murdered by a mob with faces painted black while he sat in jail awaiting trial on false charges. Like Paul before him, Joseph Smith was jailed, persecuted, and finally killed. Many prophets and apostles have been killed because of their teachings and deeds and Joseph Smith was no different.

In every possible test Joseph Smith compares favorably with the prophets of the Bible. Like them, he spoke in Gods name and the revelations given to him have become scripture just as Paul or Moses did. He had the testimony of Jesus Christ, the spirit of prophecy, and so devoted his ministry to testifying of the divine mission of Jesus Christ. He was commissioned by God through visions and the visitations of angels to do Gods work here on earth and so received authority to act and speak in Gods name. He was a prophet, a seer, a revelator, a translator, a missionary, an apostle, and a martyr for he was hunted and murdered by angry mobs because he dared to speak against their traditions and because his teachings and deeds stirred up controversy.

Ultimately, one must look at the fruits of Joseph Smiths mission. To know if Joseph Smith truly was a prophet of God, one must study his teachings and his deeds. These can be found first and foremost in the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants. If the Book of Mormon is truly the word of God, then Joseph Smith truly was a prophet of God and while argument and evidence may be compiled for pages upon pages, only the Spirit of God will ultimately reveal to a person whether or not Joseph Smith was a prophet. Why this matters, even and perhaps especially for Christians, is that if Joseph Smith was a prophet, then Jesus Christ has a message for the whole world and especially for those who claim to believe in Him. This message is that His Church has been established by prophets and is now being led by them through inspiration of God. For non-Christians, the message is one of faith and hope, that Jesus Christ lives again and through His power all may be resurrected and saved.

Jonathan F. Barney was born and raised in Mapleton, Utah and graduated from Springville High School. He attended Utah State University on full scholarship and graduated in 2004 with a degree in History and Linguistics. He is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Near Eastern Studies, emphasizing the Arab World at Princeton University. From 1999 to 2001, he served as a volunteery missionary for the Mormon Church in Ohio. In 2003 he studied for one semester at the American University of Cairo in Egypt. In his spare time he enjoys reading, hiking, calligraphy (both Latin and Arabic scripts), and writing

To learn more about Joseph Smiths life and teachings visit these excellent sites:

Joseph Smith.net With pictures, writings, and biographical information about Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith.com with Joseph Smith's writings about his life

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