Lookahead: I looked and saw the Lamb standing on Mount Zion! With him were 144,000 … They have been rescued as firstfruits to God and the Lamb…Rev 14:1,4  One could say that for the first time in history, we are seeing many Jews embrace Jesus in this new millenium, and certainly more than 144,000. (~350,000 … Continue reading Unpacking #10 – The First and Last of the Firstfruits

Lookhead: So a given episode would include the experience of intense joy when they would miraculously reunite, followed by the experience of gut-wrenching sorrow when they would have to say goodbye, seemingly for the last time.  Each time (until I fast forwarded and started screening based on plot descriptions), it seemed like there would be … Continue reading Unpacking #9 – To Transmute or NOT?

Lookahead: Nevertheless, the video clearly confirmed that it wasn't God Who was dissatisfied that religious people weren't dying in order to convert more sinners.  It confirmed that the Celtic people were dissatisfied.  So where did this evangelism = martyrdom viewpoint come from?  Toward the end of the video, one guest commented that the lifestyle of these happy religious hermits … Continue reading Unpacking #8 – Stackable Crowns?

Lookahead:  I believe that’s what eventually happens to genuinely wealthy people when they are living out their selfish, vain lives.  Tragically they may die without grabbing hold of Jesus' saving hand—the Water of Life in the desert—the One Who can snatch them out of the fire.  But for those who accept him, their joy cannot … Continue reading Unpacking #7 – Richie NOT Rich

Lookahead:  In this context…in this moment….I believe that double-minded thinking originates from a belief that God would kick us around the block to teach us a lesson.  So, on one hand, we say that God is Good, and Love, and perfect.  And on the other hand, we say that He would slap us down (mercilessly) … Continue reading Unpacking #6 – Spiritual Schizophrenia

Lookahead: For it is written, “He catches the wise in their own craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.” 1 Corin 3:18 - 20 So what happens when we have the wisdom of man versus the wisdom of God?…Ultimately, "the thoughts of the wise are futile." Futile … Continue reading Unpacking #5 – How Wise Is That?