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Dear Brothers in Christ,
Norbert Lieth’s article in the September Midnight Call about healing makes me think that he has an idea that all “healing ministries” are based on unfounded doctrine. The overboard, foolish behavior of some Christians toward healing is not the proof that healing isn’t part of the atonement. Neither is the fact that all Christians are not healed of all diseases a proof. Indeed, all Israel wasn’t healed even under Jesus, either. Those that came to Him by faith were healed. Even some in His hometown weren’t healed because they doubted.
I have pastored a “faith-healing, charismatic” church for nearly 25 years. I can’t speak for others, but I believe that the Cross is the foundation of all belief in receiving healing by faith. That doesn’t mean that healing is “automatic” because of the Cross, but like salvation, it begins there.
Just as it is true that salvation is entered into by faith in the redemptive work of Jesus, so is healing. Salvation is a one-time event because we are dead in our trespasses once, then redeemed as long as we remain in faith. The difference with healing is that we get sick more than once; therefore, we need to apply our faith each time to receive healing. The inability of a believer in Christ to appropriate healing grace in any one event of sickness is not proof that healing isn’t available at all. After all, salvation is offered to all, but “few find it.” Can we then make the assumption that salvation really isn’t offered at the Cross just because many don’t receive it?
I realize that you are obviously “cessationists,” but it doesn’t stop me from appreciating the fact that we share a love for looking for the Rapture from an end-time perspective. In this we certainly can share “unity in the Spirit,” as Marcel Malgo wrote of in that same issue. Remember, there are many “reconstructionists” who think we are the crazy ones for believing in a pre-trib Rapture.
I know that I’m not going to convince you out of your “cessationism,” any more than you would me of my “charismaticism,” only to rejoice that we’ll all see “clearly” then!
-J. Jaehrling, OR
Answer: The article in question targets the misinterpretation of physical healing for Christians, as indicated by the introduction. In that case, parents were found guilty of manslaughter because they refused medical aid for their child. Norbert Lieth clearly stated, “We believe also that God does miracles today and heals people.” That God can and does is not the question; the issue is misuse and misinterpretation of Scripture.
I find it quite interesting that Jesus stated we will do “greater works.” Obviously, it is the preaching and the testimony of believers, which results in the conversion and rebirth of a listener—that qualifies as “greater works.” After all, the people Jesus healed all died. Also, the people healed in your services will sooner or later succumb to an illness and die as well.
First Peter 2:24 actually answers Isaiah 53:5: “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” This speaks of SIN. Note, it is written in the past tense—it is done; we are perfected in Him for all eternity, but our body will deteriorate until it loses all vital functions and dies.
I appreciate your kind spirit, particularly the conclusion, “only to rejoice that we will all see ‘clearly,’ then!”
Norbert Lieth’s article in the September Midnight Call about healing makes me think that he has an idea that all “healing ministries” are based on unfounded doctrine. The overboard, foolish behavior of some Christians toward healing is not the proof that healing isn’t part of the atonement. Neither is the fact that all Christians are not healed of all diseases a proof. Indeed, all Israel wasn’t healed even under Jesus, either. Those that came to Him by faith were healed. Even some in His hometown weren’t healed because they doubted.
I have pastored a “faith-healing, charismatic” church for nearly 25 years. I can’t speak for others, but I believe that the Cross is the foundation of all belief in receiving healing by faith. That doesn’t mean that healing is “automatic” because of the Cross, but like salvation, it begins there.
Just as it is true that salvation is entered into by faith in the redemptive work of Jesus, so is healing. Salvation is a one-time event because we are dead in our trespasses once, then redeemed as long as we remain in faith. The difference with healing is that we get sick more than once; therefore, we need to apply our faith each time to receive healing. The inability of a believer in Christ to appropriate healing grace in any one event of sickness is not proof that healing isn’t available at all. After all, salvation is offered to all, but “few find it.” Can we then make the assumption that salvation really isn’t offered at the Cross just because many don’t receive it?
I realize that you are obviously “cessationists,” but it doesn’t stop me from appreciating the fact that we share a love for looking for the Rapture from an end-time perspective. In this we certainly can share “unity in the Spirit,” as Marcel Malgo wrote of in that same issue. Remember, there are many “reconstructionists” who think we are the crazy ones for believing in a pre-trib Rapture.
I know that I’m not going to convince you out of your “cessationism,” any more than you would me of my “charismaticism,” only to rejoice that we’ll all see “clearly” then!
-J. Jaehrling, OR
Answer: The article in question targets the misinterpretation of physical healing for Christians, as indicated by the introduction. In that case, parents were found guilty of manslaughter because they refused medical aid for their child. Norbert Lieth clearly stated, “We believe also that God does miracles today and heals people.” That God can and does is not the question; the issue is misuse and misinterpretation of Scripture.
I find it quite interesting that Jesus stated we will do “greater works.” Obviously, it is the preaching and the testimony of believers, which results in the conversion and rebirth of a listener—that qualifies as “greater works.” After all, the people Jesus healed all died. Also, the people healed in your services will sooner or later succumb to an illness and die as well.
First Peter 2:24 actually answers Isaiah 53:5: “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” This speaks of SIN. Note, it is written in the past tense—it is done; we are perfected in Him for all eternity, but our body will deteriorate until it loses all vital functions and dies.
I appreciate your kind spirit, particularly the conclusion, “only to rejoice that we will all see ‘clearly,’ then!”
Published in
Letters to the Editor
Dear Midnight Call,
God spoke His unilateral Covenant of Ten Commandments from Mt. Sinai (Horeb, Deuteronomy 5:2). And He added no more (Deuteronomy 5:22). NOTE: This Covenant is NOT a bilateral Covenant—it is “unilateral.” The “Ten Commandments” are the standards of the first Covenant given to the Israelites, and this Covenant was not given to any other people or any person before the Israelites—not even their forefathers (Deuteronomy 5:3).
The weekly Sabbath was a special day for the Israelites! Think carefully why it was placed in the position of the “Ten Commandments” that it is. The Sabbath bound the entire nation of Israel together as a unit as long as the demands of the Ten were kept! The Sabbath was a sign to the Israelites and demanded two extra lambs to be sacrificed along with the regular daily sacrifice (Exodus 31:12-18; Numbers 28:9-10; Deuteronomy 5:15). The weekly Sabbath in the Ten Commandments required two extra sacrificial lambs along with the regular daily sacrifice. Do the Sabbath keepers keep up with their animal sacrificing (Numbers 28:9-10)?
The reason the Israelites were to keep the seventh day Sabbath was to honor God for their deliverance from Egypt—this applied only to the Israelites so they could remain in the land of Canaan (Deuteronomy 5:15).
We have to remove the veil from our hearts by removing that old Ten Commandment Covenant. Then and only then will the glory of Jesus shine unto us so that we can understand His Gospel and walk with Him in His TRUTH.
We are living in devastating times with all manner of crime and corruption. Most all people know the devastation that is coming down on us, even those that are committing the wrongs. The disobdient know the wrongs committed are destructive, but they keep right on with their sins. Yet, our people will not turn to the Christ in truth for peace and blessedness.
Most every day the news brings out one nation or another maintaining a nuclear warhead on the nose of a missile. Anyone watching the explosion of such a bomb and seeing the terrible heat and destruction of it knows it is nothing to play with. It has been reported that China has come up with such a missile that can hit any warship we have anywhere in the ocean.
There are sixty of our missiles in Pakistan that the Muslim Taliban are trying to get control of. Can you picture what sixty warhead missiles can do? And too, all these nations have equipment to detect the instant a missile is set off and where it is heading. Now, if a nation such as China or North Korea set off missiles heading to our nation, you can bank on our nation to retaliate before their missiles can land. And, the same with other nations. Can you now picture the sky on fire and the elements of the earth melting with fervent heat?
-R. Meier, CO
Answer: Your statement, “The Sinai Covenant was made null and void when Jesus established His New Covenant,” is biblically correct. Hebrews 8:13 confirms, “In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.” However, the Ten Commandments are the Word of God, and the Word of God is eternally valid. But the law does not relate directly to salvation. Of course, without the principles of the Ten Commandments, no nation could function in a civilized manner.
However, we as believers have to answer to an infinitely higher law, of which Jesus speaks, for example, in Matthew 5. The Lord’s stern demands place the Old Testament Law in a virtually unrecognizable shadow.
Your quoting of 2 Peter 3:9-12 in relation to a possible nuclear war is something I do not agree with. The Great Tribulation, the Battle of Armageddon, the final judgment—even after the thousand-year kingdom has expired—all are God-made, not manmade.
Besides, China, Pakistan, North Korea and others have no interest in the United States. They have their hands full of problems, just as any other nation; they don’t need more. America’s military intervention is most certainly a contributing factor toward the virtual state of bankruptcy it has found itself in for the last two decades. What we must learn to recognize is our position in the real nation, that is, the Church of Jesus Christ. Our temporary residence, wherever we may reside in the world, is insignificant.
God spoke His unilateral Covenant of Ten Commandments from Mt. Sinai (Horeb, Deuteronomy 5:2). And He added no more (Deuteronomy 5:22). NOTE: This Covenant is NOT a bilateral Covenant—it is “unilateral.” The “Ten Commandments” are the standards of the first Covenant given to the Israelites, and this Covenant was not given to any other people or any person before the Israelites—not even their forefathers (Deuteronomy 5:3).
The weekly Sabbath was a special day for the Israelites! Think carefully why it was placed in the position of the “Ten Commandments” that it is. The Sabbath bound the entire nation of Israel together as a unit as long as the demands of the Ten were kept! The Sabbath was a sign to the Israelites and demanded two extra lambs to be sacrificed along with the regular daily sacrifice (Exodus 31:12-18; Numbers 28:9-10; Deuteronomy 5:15). The weekly Sabbath in the Ten Commandments required two extra sacrificial lambs along with the regular daily sacrifice. Do the Sabbath keepers keep up with their animal sacrificing (Numbers 28:9-10)?
The reason the Israelites were to keep the seventh day Sabbath was to honor God for their deliverance from Egypt—this applied only to the Israelites so they could remain in the land of Canaan (Deuteronomy 5:15).
We have to remove the veil from our hearts by removing that old Ten Commandment Covenant. Then and only then will the glory of Jesus shine unto us so that we can understand His Gospel and walk with Him in His TRUTH.
We are living in devastating times with all manner of crime and corruption. Most all people know the devastation that is coming down on us, even those that are committing the wrongs. The disobdient know the wrongs committed are destructive, but they keep right on with their sins. Yet, our people will not turn to the Christ in truth for peace and blessedness.
Most every day the news brings out one nation or another maintaining a nuclear warhead on the nose of a missile. Anyone watching the explosion of such a bomb and seeing the terrible heat and destruction of it knows it is nothing to play with. It has been reported that China has come up with such a missile that can hit any warship we have anywhere in the ocean.
There are sixty of our missiles in Pakistan that the Muslim Taliban are trying to get control of. Can you picture what sixty warhead missiles can do? And too, all these nations have equipment to detect the instant a missile is set off and where it is heading. Now, if a nation such as China or North Korea set off missiles heading to our nation, you can bank on our nation to retaliate before their missiles can land. And, the same with other nations. Can you now picture the sky on fire and the elements of the earth melting with fervent heat?
-R. Meier, CO
Answer: Your statement, “The Sinai Covenant was made null and void when Jesus established His New Covenant,” is biblically correct. Hebrews 8:13 confirms, “In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.” However, the Ten Commandments are the Word of God, and the Word of God is eternally valid. But the law does not relate directly to salvation. Of course, without the principles of the Ten Commandments, no nation could function in a civilized manner.
However, we as believers have to answer to an infinitely higher law, of which Jesus speaks, for example, in Matthew 5. The Lord’s stern demands place the Old Testament Law in a virtually unrecognizable shadow.
Your quoting of 2 Peter 3:9-12 in relation to a possible nuclear war is something I do not agree with. The Great Tribulation, the Battle of Armageddon, the final judgment—even after the thousand-year kingdom has expired—all are God-made, not manmade.
Besides, China, Pakistan, North Korea and others have no interest in the United States. They have their hands full of problems, just as any other nation; they don’t need more. America’s military intervention is most certainly a contributing factor toward the virtual state of bankruptcy it has found itself in for the last two decades. What we must learn to recognize is our position in the real nation, that is, the Church of Jesus Christ. Our temporary residence, wherever we may reside in the world, is insignificant.
Published in
Letters to the Editor
Dear Arno,
First, I appreciate, follow and support Midnight Call! I am a little perplexed that your stance on end times is that democracy will take over the world, and you really don’t seem to allow room for the role Islam may play. I’ve read Walid Shoebat’s book and heard him speak, and I find it interesting because he does offer an Easterner’s (and ex-Muslim’s) perspective on end times prophecy. He makes some very good points. First, it sounds like the Mahdi in Islam reads like the Antichrist of the Bible. A few other points to ponder: regarding the peoples/nations that the Bible says Jesus will defeat upon His return—aren’t they all Muslim? If Islam is not to play a role, then why is that? The Word talks about those beheaded during the Tribulation—the Western world doesn’t behead people, but Islam does. Rome had an Eastern half of its empire—
I have heard that the ethnicity of the soldiers who made up the contingent that destroyed Jerusalem were actually of Arab descent, so from the Eastern half. If so, shouldn’t that be factored into discussions about who the people are who make up the revived Roman Empire? There were certainly many other good points Walid made in his book (God’s War on Terror) that should warrant some thought and discussion. Lastly, I just started reading the book you sent me and you point out that the Muslim uprisings are going to lead them to become part of the world democracy—but actually, it looks like the Western world is helping the most radical element of Islam (Muslim Brotherhood) take over the countries like Egypt and Libya, so leading them even further away from democracy. Plus, with all of the financial chaos going on in the Western world, a devastating attack on the US (e.g., a nuclear bomb being detonated over the US, knocking out much of the electronics and electrical grid, putting us back into the 19th century) could greatly alter the world scene. The same thing for Europe. It just seems like one of the great deceptions going on right now is regarding Islam and how most of the world is asleep concerning its dangers and seems to overly defend against even any criticism of Islam. Lastly, I read where China is building up its military while growing its economic power. If the Western world continues to falter, why would China pursue democracy when they see a chance to become dominant? I’ve always held the view that the Roman Empire would revive in the last days—but two things: Again, a part of the Roman Empire was the Eastern half that today are mostly Muslim people. The Western world is greatly faltering, which is certainly paving the way for a world leader to step forward with all of the answers, but I just don’t see how one can discount Islam playing a big role in the end. Anyway, if you have the time, I would appreciate your thoughts. Thank you and God Bless!
-J. Johnson, IN
Answer: Second Corinthians 11 speaks of “another Jesus…another spirit…another gospel…false apostles…transformed as the ministers of righteousness.” That is the greatest diabolical danger in our times. The “radical element” within Churchianity is really “the great deception going on right now.”
As mentioned in my book, if the radical Islamist had the power to harm the European world (West), he surely would have done it long ago. The truth is, they are powerless; they have no chance; they don’t have a future. Should they be successful here and there in perpetrating a terrorist attack within the European world, it would at most be an exception. Yet, American Christianity has swallowed the “Islam danger” hook, line and sinker.
Relating to China, in the October 2011 issue of Foreign Policy magazine, this statement appeared on page 55: “Since Chairman Mao’s death, China has been hands down the most peaceful great power of its time. China’s military hasn’t fired a single shot in battle in 25 years.”
About Walid Shoebat, Wikipedia points to many unanswered questions regarding his claims in his book. Read it for yourself: http://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Walid_Shoebat
It seems that our nation continues to be intoxicated with perpetual self-applause, thus being incapable of acknowledging objective truths. Unfortunately, that applies to the Church as well.
First, I appreciate, follow and support Midnight Call! I am a little perplexed that your stance on end times is that democracy will take over the world, and you really don’t seem to allow room for the role Islam may play. I’ve read Walid Shoebat’s book and heard him speak, and I find it interesting because he does offer an Easterner’s (and ex-Muslim’s) perspective on end times prophecy. He makes some very good points. First, it sounds like the Mahdi in Islam reads like the Antichrist of the Bible. A few other points to ponder: regarding the peoples/nations that the Bible says Jesus will defeat upon His return—aren’t they all Muslim? If Islam is not to play a role, then why is that? The Word talks about those beheaded during the Tribulation—the Western world doesn’t behead people, but Islam does. Rome had an Eastern half of its empire—
I have heard that the ethnicity of the soldiers who made up the contingent that destroyed Jerusalem were actually of Arab descent, so from the Eastern half. If so, shouldn’t that be factored into discussions about who the people are who make up the revived Roman Empire? There were certainly many other good points Walid made in his book (God’s War on Terror) that should warrant some thought and discussion. Lastly, I just started reading the book you sent me and you point out that the Muslim uprisings are going to lead them to become part of the world democracy—but actually, it looks like the Western world is helping the most radical element of Islam (Muslim Brotherhood) take over the countries like Egypt and Libya, so leading them even further away from democracy. Plus, with all of the financial chaos going on in the Western world, a devastating attack on the US (e.g., a nuclear bomb being detonated over the US, knocking out much of the electronics and electrical grid, putting us back into the 19th century) could greatly alter the world scene. The same thing for Europe. It just seems like one of the great deceptions going on right now is regarding Islam and how most of the world is asleep concerning its dangers and seems to overly defend against even any criticism of Islam. Lastly, I read where China is building up its military while growing its economic power. If the Western world continues to falter, why would China pursue democracy when they see a chance to become dominant? I’ve always held the view that the Roman Empire would revive in the last days—but two things: Again, a part of the Roman Empire was the Eastern half that today are mostly Muslim people. The Western world is greatly faltering, which is certainly paving the way for a world leader to step forward with all of the answers, but I just don’t see how one can discount Islam playing a big role in the end. Anyway, if you have the time, I would appreciate your thoughts. Thank you and God Bless!
-J. Johnson, IN
Answer: Second Corinthians 11 speaks of “another Jesus…another spirit…another gospel…false apostles…transformed as the ministers of righteousness.” That is the greatest diabolical danger in our times. The “radical element” within Churchianity is really “the great deception going on right now.”
As mentioned in my book, if the radical Islamist had the power to harm the European world (West), he surely would have done it long ago. The truth is, they are powerless; they have no chance; they don’t have a future. Should they be successful here and there in perpetrating a terrorist attack within the European world, it would at most be an exception. Yet, American Christianity has swallowed the “Islam danger” hook, line and sinker.
Relating to China, in the October 2011 issue of Foreign Policy magazine, this statement appeared on page 55: “Since Chairman Mao’s death, China has been hands down the most peaceful great power of its time. China’s military hasn’t fired a single shot in battle in 25 years.”
About Walid Shoebat, Wikipedia points to many unanswered questions regarding his claims in his book. Read it for yourself: http://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Walid_Shoebat
It seems that our nation continues to be intoxicated with perpetual self-applause, thus being incapable of acknowledging objective truths. Unfortunately, that applies to the Church as well.
Published in
Letters to the Editor
Dear Midnight Call,
I am a subscriber to the Midnight Call magazine, which my husband and I have enjoyed for several years.
However, I was disturbed by the series dealing with conspiracies by Johannes Pflaum, because I fear many are ignorant of the lies believed by the American people in general, and by Christians in particular, which are harmful to truth during these times. While ignorance may be bliss, watchfulness and truth are necessary in these times more so than ever before.
There are conspiracies within conspiracies being carried out in the world, and being an end time biblical and cultural researcher, I am well aware of the ignorance under which people are laboring today. This lack of knowledge is allowing the great majority of Christians to be misled and deceived, and it is going on right in the church. There are many bizarre and strange plans which will take Christians by complete surprise if they are not made knowledgeable.
Please read a rather tame article on this matter by the award-winning Christian film developer, Christian J. Pinto, at http://www.adullamfilms.com/conspiracytheories.html. Please look around his site at his films, and you may get a glimpse of what I mean. There are many “watchman” ministries which try to present the strange and deadly truths of our modern age.
Mr. Pflaum is woefully unaware of the many deceits and deceptions Christians will be made to face—whether or not they are informed. One of the most effective tools used by the evil ones who live and act in secrecy today, is to label those who expose them as “conspirators.” It works beautifully because it is a satanic deception used to hide the many aspects of his agenda and those who fulfill it.
I remain a committed subscriber and pray for all of the Christian ministries as we make our way through the shoals of these days. May God continue to richly bless you.
-C. Reyner, CA
Answer: Unfortunately, you have not given specific details that would identify Brother Pflaum being “woefully unaware of the many deceits and deceptions Christians will be made to face.”
Midnight Call’s task is to proclaim the entire Bible as the unfailing and eternal written Word of God; to call people to Christ, proclaim that He will come again, prepare Christians for His coming, and uphold the faith by warning of false doctrines. That is what Bro. Pflaum has done in several articles. He lists the names of people and ministries that are attempting to deceive the Church with their conspiracy doctrine; thus, we are duty-bound to warn of such false teachers and false teachings.
Adullum Films mentions historical persons such as Nebuchadnezzar, Cyrus of Persia, and Alexander the Great, who “conspired and planned to take over other countries.” Thus the question, did the Founding Fathers of the US conspire against Britain in order to take over the country from the Indian inhabitants? Quite naturally, this is also a conspiracy, but it has no direct relationship to the Church; thus, we are not duty-bound to warn of such “conspiracies.”
However, when the truth of the Gospel is being polluted with politics, then we speak up. For that reason, we offer the DVDs titled Secret Mysteries of America’s Beginnings.
We must keep in mind that all nations of the world are under the dictates of the god of this world—Lucifer. The only exception is the true Church of Jesus Christ. We are in the world, but not of the world. We are in America, but not of America. We, the Church of Jesus Christ, are the true “New Age nation.”
I am a subscriber to the Midnight Call magazine, which my husband and I have enjoyed for several years.
However, I was disturbed by the series dealing with conspiracies by Johannes Pflaum, because I fear many are ignorant of the lies believed by the American people in general, and by Christians in particular, which are harmful to truth during these times. While ignorance may be bliss, watchfulness and truth are necessary in these times more so than ever before.
There are conspiracies within conspiracies being carried out in the world, and being an end time biblical and cultural researcher, I am well aware of the ignorance under which people are laboring today. This lack of knowledge is allowing the great majority of Christians to be misled and deceived, and it is going on right in the church. There are many bizarre and strange plans which will take Christians by complete surprise if they are not made knowledgeable.
Please read a rather tame article on this matter by the award-winning Christian film developer, Christian J. Pinto, at http://www.adullamfilms.com/conspiracytheories.html. Please look around his site at his films, and you may get a glimpse of what I mean. There are many “watchman” ministries which try to present the strange and deadly truths of our modern age.
Mr. Pflaum is woefully unaware of the many deceits and deceptions Christians will be made to face—whether or not they are informed. One of the most effective tools used by the evil ones who live and act in secrecy today, is to label those who expose them as “conspirators.” It works beautifully because it is a satanic deception used to hide the many aspects of his agenda and those who fulfill it.
I remain a committed subscriber and pray for all of the Christian ministries as we make our way through the shoals of these days. May God continue to richly bless you.
-C. Reyner, CA
Answer: Unfortunately, you have not given specific details that would identify Brother Pflaum being “woefully unaware of the many deceits and deceptions Christians will be made to face.”
Midnight Call’s task is to proclaim the entire Bible as the unfailing and eternal written Word of God; to call people to Christ, proclaim that He will come again, prepare Christians for His coming, and uphold the faith by warning of false doctrines. That is what Bro. Pflaum has done in several articles. He lists the names of people and ministries that are attempting to deceive the Church with their conspiracy doctrine; thus, we are duty-bound to warn of such false teachers and false teachings.
Adullum Films mentions historical persons such as Nebuchadnezzar, Cyrus of Persia, and Alexander the Great, who “conspired and planned to take over other countries.” Thus the question, did the Founding Fathers of the US conspire against Britain in order to take over the country from the Indian inhabitants? Quite naturally, this is also a conspiracy, but it has no direct relationship to the Church; thus, we are not duty-bound to warn of such “conspiracies.”
However, when the truth of the Gospel is being polluted with politics, then we speak up. For that reason, we offer the DVDs titled Secret Mysteries of America’s Beginnings.
We must keep in mind that all nations of the world are under the dictates of the god of this world—Lucifer. The only exception is the true Church of Jesus Christ. We are in the world, but not of the world. We are in America, but not of America. We, the Church of Jesus Christ, are the true “New Age nation.”
Published in
Letters to the Editor
Dear Mr. Froese,
I especially enjoy the “Letters to the Editor” section of Midnight Call.
Regarding the United States, God and Israel:
I can’t for the life of me understand the thinking, not only of those who write to Midnight Call, but of TV teachers and evangelists who want people to help Israel against Iraq and the Palestinians. Or those who say God will punish United States for not helping Israel—when God is orchestrating the whole thing. No one can help Israel as a nation. Jesus Christ said your house is left to you desolate (Matthew 23:37-39).
Yes, one day God will punish the nations who go against Israel, but He intends to take care of Israel first. “Woe unto you that desire the day of the Lord! To what end is it for you? The day of the Lord is darkness, and not light” (Amos 5:18).
There are so many Scriptures that warn Israel. One that is very clear is “…yet have you not returned unto me…Prepare to meet thy God, O Israel” (Amos 4:11-12). Why is God bringing seven years of trouble to the whole earth? Because of Israel! (Micah 1:5).
God today deals with individuals in Israel and anyone else the same way; they can escape Jacob’s trouble by the blood of Christ. As a nation, Israel is going down, and God is doing it. World nations are only pawns. Remember what Jesus said to Pilate concerning the power he thought he had.
I rarely watch the mainstream TV evangelists and teachers any more. I suppose they mean well, but I feel like Omar Khayyam who said, and I quote loosely from memory, “…time with saints and sages I have spent, and always, went out by the same door as in I went….” I don’t know what those men are thinking.
I personally teach prophecy to a small adult group of various ages, each Sunday—and have learned so much—not because I’m intelligent, but because I can read.
-S. Martin, OH
Answer: If my memory serves me correctly, I have never published or said that people should “help Israel against Iraq and the Palestinians.” Nor have
I ever made the statement that “God will punish the United States for not helping Israel.”
Many theologians base their political/religious idea on Genesis 12:3: “I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee.” This promise is not collective, but individual, and valid today just as it was during Abraham’s time. Haman, for example, cursed Israel and he was cursed. Ruth, on the other hand, blessed Israel and was blessed.
Take Germany, for example. A country that committed the most horrendous crime in human history, allowing six million Jews to be slaughtered—yet today, they are the envy of the world. Also, the Soviet Union was first to sell weapons to the Jews to defend themselves, while America had an arms embargo in place. Plus, the USSR was first to recognize Israel as a State, 17 May 1948. Yet, the USSR ceased to exist!
Indeed, Israel will experience Jacob’s trouble, but you need to read the rest of the verse, “but he shall be saved out of it.” I think it to be an error assuming that promises relating to Israel will only be fulfilled in the future. Read carefully Ezekiel 36, and you will notice that God prepares first the land for the people. Why? Because verse 8 says, “…for they are at hand to come.” Then in verse 26, God promised the Jews a “new heart…and a new spirit.” That is happening in our days. Jews that allowed themselves to be mistreated, persecuted, and killed throughout the millennia now stand up for themselves—and woe unto anyone touching Israel! That’s the new heart and new spirit.
But that’s not all. Verse 27 reads, “And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them” (Ezekiel 36:27). That will be Israel’s collective conversion; they will be His people.
Take note of the ending of most of the Minor Prophets; Zephaniah, for example, “At that time will I bring you again, even in the time that I gather you: for I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes, saith the LORD” (3:20).
I especially enjoy the “Letters to the Editor” section of Midnight Call.
Regarding the United States, God and Israel:
I can’t for the life of me understand the thinking, not only of those who write to Midnight Call, but of TV teachers and evangelists who want people to help Israel against Iraq and the Palestinians. Or those who say God will punish United States for not helping Israel—when God is orchestrating the whole thing. No one can help Israel as a nation. Jesus Christ said your house is left to you desolate (Matthew 23:37-39).
Yes, one day God will punish the nations who go against Israel, but He intends to take care of Israel first. “Woe unto you that desire the day of the Lord! To what end is it for you? The day of the Lord is darkness, and not light” (Amos 5:18).
There are so many Scriptures that warn Israel. One that is very clear is “…yet have you not returned unto me…Prepare to meet thy God, O Israel” (Amos 4:11-12). Why is God bringing seven years of trouble to the whole earth? Because of Israel! (Micah 1:5).
God today deals with individuals in Israel and anyone else the same way; they can escape Jacob’s trouble by the blood of Christ. As a nation, Israel is going down, and God is doing it. World nations are only pawns. Remember what Jesus said to Pilate concerning the power he thought he had.
I rarely watch the mainstream TV evangelists and teachers any more. I suppose they mean well, but I feel like Omar Khayyam who said, and I quote loosely from memory, “…time with saints and sages I have spent, and always, went out by the same door as in I went….” I don’t know what those men are thinking.
I personally teach prophecy to a small adult group of various ages, each Sunday—and have learned so much—not because I’m intelligent, but because I can read.
-S. Martin, OH
Answer: If my memory serves me correctly, I have never published or said that people should “help Israel against Iraq and the Palestinians.” Nor have
I ever made the statement that “God will punish the United States for not helping Israel.”
Many theologians base their political/religious idea on Genesis 12:3: “I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee.” This promise is not collective, but individual, and valid today just as it was during Abraham’s time. Haman, for example, cursed Israel and he was cursed. Ruth, on the other hand, blessed Israel and was blessed.
Take Germany, for example. A country that committed the most horrendous crime in human history, allowing six million Jews to be slaughtered—yet today, they are the envy of the world. Also, the Soviet Union was first to sell weapons to the Jews to defend themselves, while America had an arms embargo in place. Plus, the USSR was first to recognize Israel as a State, 17 May 1948. Yet, the USSR ceased to exist!
Indeed, Israel will experience Jacob’s trouble, but you need to read the rest of the verse, “but he shall be saved out of it.” I think it to be an error assuming that promises relating to Israel will only be fulfilled in the future. Read carefully Ezekiel 36, and you will notice that God prepares first the land for the people. Why? Because verse 8 says, “…for they are at hand to come.” Then in verse 26, God promised the Jews a “new heart…and a new spirit.” That is happening in our days. Jews that allowed themselves to be mistreated, persecuted, and killed throughout the millennia now stand up for themselves—and woe unto anyone touching Israel! That’s the new heart and new spirit.
But that’s not all. Verse 27 reads, “And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them” (Ezekiel 36:27). That will be Israel’s collective conversion; they will be His people.
Take note of the ending of most of the Minor Prophets; Zephaniah, for example, “At that time will I bring you again, even in the time that I gather you: for I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes, saith the LORD” (3:20).
Published in
Letters to the Editor
Dear Mr. Froese,
First, I am instructed and blessed by your explanations of end-time verses. Your book, Democracy Invades Islam is good reading. I wonder if the Babylon references could be an Islamic Kingdom. Babylon is noted for false religion.
This is the good thing.
Now, I must take issue with you on the tract, “Burial or Cremation?”
Every incident you quoted was unrelated to the peaceful cremation which is happening today. Cremation today is not like pagan rituals, with public display, funeral pyres. You began your essay with a proper disclaimer: cremation or burial has no connection to salvation. I am puzzled by the last portion, which claims cremation is an “abomination” to the Lord.
Every reference to the body’s use as Christian witness refers only and exclusively to a living body. You mentioned 1 Corinthians 6:19, “What? Know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your own?” This refers to LIVING for Christ, not a dead body.
I think you have failed to rightly understand the Word!
You sloughed over the expenses of burial as though they didn’t matter.
I think it matters if a person, being a steward of funds God has graciously permitted him to have, goes into debt, making payments which could be used to reach out to the living, who need Christ.
What you are expressing is personal choice, not Bible doctrine. That burial was used for some people is not necessarily the example for others. If God condemned the burning of bodies because of personal choice, he would have stated it plainly without any qualifications.
You referenced Amos 2:1, “Thus saith the Lord; For three transgressions of Moab, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because he burned the bones of the king of Edom into lime.” This is not a condemnation of cremation, but of a pagan practice which was done out of contempt.
Your influence is diminished for the Lord because you expressed an opinion and attempted to tie it into Scripture. Cultures change. A living body is vastly different from a dead body, and to make them otherwise is wrong. A body three days in the sun is a stench; a body three weeks in the sun needs a medical examiner to identify it.
We are to present our bodies as a LIVING sacrifice, which is our reasonable service. God is the God of the living. In God only we have LIFE.
I only hope the good causes regarding end-time truths are not tainted with this tract. I wish you had not written it, not for any “conviction of me” but how it will cause seekers to turn away.
I love the Lord and like you, do not allow “patriotism” to become an idol by association.
-F. Hubbard, FL
Answer: The Bible neither mentions Islam nor refers to an “anti-Allah or anti-Muhammad,” but clearly reveals a false Christ, a false gospel, and a false spirit. When we take these facts seriously, then we must come to the conclusion that Churchianity is the greatest danger for the true Church.
The tract in question is not my opinion, but cites Scriptures clearly revealing the biblical method of disposing of the body of the saint. That’s enough reason for me to follow that example. Besides, Cremation was virtually never practiced until in recent years when Hinduism and Buddhism have flooded the European world (West).
Virtually all correspondence relating to Cremation emphasized the financial burden. Here is my testimony: My wife Ruth and I and family agree that we should be buried—the simplest way. The so-called “green burial” lists the cost as follows: $300 casket; $200 body transport; $800 for plot, opening and closing. That, you will agree, is significantly less costly than Cremation.
We are fully aware of the controversy surrounding this issue, but sense strongly that Bible truths must be proclaimed. Cremation is not an option, according to Scripture.
First, I am instructed and blessed by your explanations of end-time verses. Your book, Democracy Invades Islam is good reading. I wonder if the Babylon references could be an Islamic Kingdom. Babylon is noted for false religion.
This is the good thing.
Now, I must take issue with you on the tract, “Burial or Cremation?”
Every incident you quoted was unrelated to the peaceful cremation which is happening today. Cremation today is not like pagan rituals, with public display, funeral pyres. You began your essay with a proper disclaimer: cremation or burial has no connection to salvation. I am puzzled by the last portion, which claims cremation is an “abomination” to the Lord.
Every reference to the body’s use as Christian witness refers only and exclusively to a living body. You mentioned 1 Corinthians 6:19, “What? Know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your own?” This refers to LIVING for Christ, not a dead body.
I think you have failed to rightly understand the Word!
You sloughed over the expenses of burial as though they didn’t matter.
I think it matters if a person, being a steward of funds God has graciously permitted him to have, goes into debt, making payments which could be used to reach out to the living, who need Christ.
What you are expressing is personal choice, not Bible doctrine. That burial was used for some people is not necessarily the example for others. If God condemned the burning of bodies because of personal choice, he would have stated it plainly without any qualifications.
You referenced Amos 2:1, “Thus saith the Lord; For three transgressions of Moab, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because he burned the bones of the king of Edom into lime.” This is not a condemnation of cremation, but of a pagan practice which was done out of contempt.
Your influence is diminished for the Lord because you expressed an opinion and attempted to tie it into Scripture. Cultures change. A living body is vastly different from a dead body, and to make them otherwise is wrong. A body three days in the sun is a stench; a body three weeks in the sun needs a medical examiner to identify it.
We are to present our bodies as a LIVING sacrifice, which is our reasonable service. God is the God of the living. In God only we have LIFE.
I only hope the good causes regarding end-time truths are not tainted with this tract. I wish you had not written it, not for any “conviction of me” but how it will cause seekers to turn away.
I love the Lord and like you, do not allow “patriotism” to become an idol by association.
-F. Hubbard, FL
Answer: The Bible neither mentions Islam nor refers to an “anti-Allah or anti-Muhammad,” but clearly reveals a false Christ, a false gospel, and a false spirit. When we take these facts seriously, then we must come to the conclusion that Churchianity is the greatest danger for the true Church.
The tract in question is not my opinion, but cites Scriptures clearly revealing the biblical method of disposing of the body of the saint. That’s enough reason for me to follow that example. Besides, Cremation was virtually never practiced until in recent years when Hinduism and Buddhism have flooded the European world (West).
Virtually all correspondence relating to Cremation emphasized the financial burden. Here is my testimony: My wife Ruth and I and family agree that we should be buried—the simplest way. The so-called “green burial” lists the cost as follows: $300 casket; $200 body transport; $800 for plot, opening and closing. That, you will agree, is significantly less costly than Cremation.
We are fully aware of the controversy surrounding this issue, but sense strongly that Bible truths must be proclaimed. Cremation is not an option, according to Scripture.
Published in
Letters to the Editor
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