The Tribulation Network!

Calling Fourth The Remnant! By Stella Paterson

Fri, 22 Dec 2006 23:05:36 -0500

"Calling Forth the Remnant" by Stella Paterson is a must read for us smart, wealthy Laodicean, modern type Christians! Stella calls us back to our roots to discover the mess we have gotten into. If you were to ask any Biblically literate person, what is the main characteristic of the "last days" church, the academic answer is easy: "apostasy". But when we consider the fact that we may be describing ourselves, we may reconsider. Woops? That just couldn't be. Read this book and you will see how far we have fallen (and apostasy means 'falling away'). I quote Stella, "No minister makes the decision to be a false teacher. But he is a false teacher if he relies on his own flesh and traditions handed down by others rather than seek the face of God." This book helps us examine our false conceptions, traditions, the role of the clergy, our "sanctuaries", and programs. God is calling forth a remnant and as Stella points out, a period of complacency and carelessness is historically followed by persecution. The tribulation of the saints will sift out that remnant which will stand as a glorious testimony in spite of (and because of) the persecution. Our choices will be limited: to be a part of the problem or the solution, the persecutors or the persecuted. Only the Holy Spirit can give us the spirit of revelation so our prayer is that God will use this book to open your spiritual eyes.

INDIVIDUALISM AND THE AMERICAN CHURCH . . .

dshearer@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 2 Apr 2006 17:59:19 -0500

How American Culture Distorts our Perception of the ChurchÂ—Part I

Introduction by Doug Krieger

Â“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud . . . having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereofÂ” (II Tim. 3:1, 5).

The prophetic description given by the Apostle Paul of a Last DayÂ’s cultureÂ—imploded, alienated, narcissistic, greedy, violent and, in sum, utterly abandoned to selfÂ—appears above and beyond any generation self-consumed upon the globe. An extremity has been reachedÂ—hearkening back to a pre-Noahic earth wherein Â“the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continuallyÂ” (Gen. 6:5).

America, in particular, of all the WestÂ—while leading the entire earth into this cultural abyssÂ—has little awareness from whence these apocalyptic contagions spring. Doug Shearer connects the dotsÂ—from Luther to Madison Avenue. ShearerÂ’s synthesis is compelling. The disintegration of the American family finds its origins from the dark side of LutherÂ’s Reformation which, on the one hand, liberated the individual from the excessive traditions of a staid Roman Catholicism by introducing personal salvation, but, on the other hand, released the ultimate curses of secularism and cultural alienation. Moreover, the ChurchÂ’s role was diminished. That initial diminishing released the seeds of ecclesial occlusion wherein the supremacy of the individual trumps the nobler expressions of spiritual authority.

Â“Evangelicals believe that sanctification is largely a solitary quest for personal holiness. And the church merely helps out along the way. It facilitates. ItÂ’s a convenience. ItÂ’s an expedient. ThatÂ’s all. Nothing more. ItÂ’s not an important end-in-itself.

Â“The church is nothing more than simply the sum of its parts. Evangelicals attend a church; they donÂ’t belong to a church. How different is Roman Catholicism - drawing upon its medieval heritage; but how seldom Evangelicals take note of that difference.Â”
The Tribulation Network commends this seasoned, two-part series to heighten your awareness to Â“corporate aspectsÂ” of the vibrant Testimony the Lord is calling forth in these Last Days. Indeed, apostasy is sweeping through the Laodicean ChurchÂ—yet He knocks to come within for intimate fellowship with that very Church!

And now . . .

THE CHURCH AND CULTURE

Â“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our GodÂ” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

Â“And such were some of you...Â” A sobering reminder of our past - of what God has delivered us from! ItÂ’s not possible for any of us, touched by the grace of God, to ignore the bondages which once entangled us; but the chains have been broken, the prison doors have been wrenched open, and

weÂ’ve been set free. What joy! What thankfulness!

Still, what exactly have we been freed from? WhatÂ’s the meaning of the phrase Â“but ye are washed-sanctified-justifiedÂ”? At the very least, it means that weÂ’ve been freed from the penalty of our sins. It means, furthermore, that our lives have been set apart unto God; that weÂ’ve been marked out by His Spirit. And, finally, it means that weÂ’ve been granted a new destiny.

But it certainly does not mean that weÂ’ve been delivered fully from the power of sin Â– at least not in any experiential sense.1

WeÂ’re still subject to temptation; we still falter; and occasionally, if not frequently, we still sin. We still wrestle against many of the same fears and

anxieties that plagued us before we committed our lives to Christ.

No, the church is not filled with men and women who have attained a state of Â“sinless perfection.Â” Certainly, our lives have been infused with a new power - and we bask in the light of a new hope; but in many respects our

struggles are no different from the unsaved. And in this sense, the church reflects the culture which envelopes it. It is not, of course, a mirror image of that culture; but it is a genuine reflection nonetheless. ItÂ’s not rooted in that

culture. It doesnÂ’t belong to that culture. And, of course, its future is far different. But it does display the broad outlines and many of the defining features of that culture.

Inevitably, then, the church is dramatically influenced, though hopefully not dominated, by the same historical forces which shape and form secular society. ItÂ’s composed of men and women who are the products of that society Â– and who still bear the marks of that society Â– some more than others.

KILL THE INFIDELS! - From Cartoons To Conversion...

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 2 Apr 2006 17:56:54 -0500

ThereÂ’s been a Â“change in the forceÂ” Â– in case you didnÂ’t notice Â– weÂ’ve gone from fighting against terrorists to preemptive, unilateral, wars of national interest; from eliminating weapons of mass destruction to spreading ideological Western democracies (make that Â“Effective DemocraciesÂ”); and finally, from cartoons to conversions . . . on the surface you may think youÂ’ve got it right, but this Â“thingÂ” goes much deeper . . . let us ponder the immensity of what is going on here; then letÂ’s extrapolate its implications.

Abdul Rahman, a convert to Christianity, a believer in JesusÂ—was befriended by Christian aid workers some 16-years ago in Afghanistan. He moved to and lived in Europe (Germany) some nine years and then returned to Afghanistan after the Taliban were forcibly removed by a Western Coalition headed by the United States of America (in 2002). Of course, radical Islamicists affirm that RahmanÂ’s fate for converting to Christianity should be announced before the whole world . . . even so-called Moslem moderates, when it comes to Moslems converting to Christianity, are resolute in their vindictive:

Â“Rejecting Islam is insulting God. We will not allow God to be humiliated. This man must dieÂ” (Cleric Abdul Raoulf, considered a moderate; jailed three times for opposing the Taliban rule in Afghanistan before the regime was ousted in 2001, shortly after 9/11 by US-led forces).

Indeed, if Abdul Raoulf is the voice of Islamic moderationÂ—forbid we listen to the voices of extremism amongst the adherents of the Prophet Mohammed!

Â“He is crazy. He went in front of the media and confessed to being a Christian . . . the government (Afghan) is scared of the international community. But the people will kill him if he is freedÂ” (Hamidullah, chief cleric at Haji Yacob Mosque, Kabul, Afganistan).
Hamidullah warned that if the Afghanistan government (Karzai is authorized by AfghanistanÂ’s Constitution to affirm the death penalty in capital cases; Article 129 Ch. 7. Art. 14) releases Rahman that . . .

Derivatives, Fascism and the Almighty Dollar

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:20:27 -0500

There is a monetary time bomb ticking out there Â– that could go off any day now, blowing up the world economy. The shaky dollar, a fascist government and a house of cards brings us to the brink of apocalypse!

The Money Casino

You may not realize it but there is a money casino where the stakes are in the trillions! The world GDP is somewhere around 38 trillion dollars, but there are some high rollers out there gambling with our future. This is known as the derivatives market, a 248 trillion dollars! Warren Buffett, the second richest man in the world believes that "Derivatives are financial weapons of mass destruction, carrying dangers that, while now latent, are potentially lethal."

What are derivatives? A derivative is like a bet. A derivative Â“derives its valueÂ” from another asset. It is like covering a $1000 bet with only $10! If you lose, you have to come up with the collateral to cover the bet. Or better yet, you put up a few thousand dollars to make a billion dollar wager. This is a high stakes game and during the 1990Â’s there were some notable losses from derivatives.

For example, you could bet on the number of tornadoes that will hit Dorothy in Kansas this spring. Find someone who is willing to wager against you - and you have created a derivative. You may pay $1,000 on a $100,000 bet. This is where derivatives can become very dangerous. Derivatives are used to hedge against risk. But they are also used to make highly leveraged and highly dangerous bets.

In the financial world, derivatives have no value but derive their value from something else Â– whatever you bet on. These derivatives are extremely sensitive to changes in the market, especially interest rates. The problem is the derivatives market is so huge and complicated that no one really understands it. The traders for the LMTC were Nobel Prize winners!

And although derivatives were designed to help banks hedge against risk, today's banks found they could make a killing by concocting more exotic derivatives that effectively bet on the future direction of interest rates, foreign exchange, commodities and stock indexes. But one small misplaced derivatives trade could be a hundred billion dollar mistake.....

RESISTANCE IS FUTILE Â…I saw a Beast Rising up out of the Sea

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:17:56 -0500

The rush toward economic and geopolitical integration is so unalterable and ubiquitous, that RESISTANCE IS FUTILE. The Â“Borg CollectiveÂ” in Star Trek menacingly announced their foreboding trajection with these ominous phrases upon those who would be so foolish to contest their aspirations:

Â“This is the Borg Collective . . . Prepare to be assimilated. We will add your biological and technological distinctive to our own. You will adapt to service us. Resistance is futile.Â”

Heralding the vicissitudes of EFFECTIVE DEMOCRACIES as the Weltanschauung of the Twenty-First Century, the White House released its 48-page draft entitled: Â“National Security Strategy of the United StatesÂ” (NSS-2006). The formidable document was made public prior to Stephen J. HadleyÂ’s formal March 16, 2006, dissemination of the declared global agenda of these United States of America.

Hadley, national security adviser to President Bush (and former underling to Condi Rice who occupied the post), and principal author of the new report, expands upon the origination of the sea change in American Foreign Policy given in September 2002Â—the preemptive, unilateral, wars of national interest policy of the Bush administration. Formalization of this policy came within one year of 9/11 and prior to the War in Iraq.

Now, Hadley enunciates and amplifies that original dictumÂ—having major foreign policy ramifications on AmericaÂ’s quest toward economic globalization, China and Russian diminution, and, most assuredly, Iranian and Syrian acquiescence no matter what it takes. In addition, and sprinkled throughout the tome, is the recurring theme of EFFECTIVE DEMOCRACIESÂ—a.k.a. America demands that nations either Â“walk the talk,Â” not simply Â“talk the walk!Â”

SINO-RUSSIAN RESISTANCE IS FUTILE!

It is this aggressive expression of American foreign policyÂ—based upon the diplomatic reverberations caused by its original manifestation in 2002Â—that portends diplomatic apoplexy throughout world capitols; in particular, those governments in line for Â“regime change.Â” Likewise, it sends an uncompromising signal to China: Stop your unilateral search for fueling your energy needs! Furthermore, RussiaÂ’s meddling into IranÂ’s nuclear program will not be tolerated. As if all of the posturing now taking place in the United Nations Security Council (mid-March, 2006) over IranÂ’s dubious nuclear pursuits were somehow unnoticed by either Russia or China to wit:

JUDGMENT DAY AT THE U.N.

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:14:49 -0500

Let the United Nations Security Council melodrama begin! Or, should it be dubbed Â“circus?Â” Here witness another Olympiad affair where diplomats strut and strive upon the world stageÂ—posturing their responsible management skills to reconcile the irreconcilable, to achieve the unachievable, to appear altogether decisive, resolute despite inane rhetoric and meaningless pontifications and gamesmanship par excel lance.

This second week of March, 2006, will witness this initial volley at the UNÂ’s Roundtable discussion on what sanctions, if any, should the UN administer to IranÂ’s persistence in developing its nuclear programÂ—a program they utterly believe will free them from dependence on oil and give them untold purified profits in selling the worldÂ’s third most proven reservesÂ—133Bbls. (the US has a poultry 22Bbls.) (World Fact Book, US Central Intelligence Agency, Rank Order, Proved Oil Reserves).

RUSSIA & CHINA TO THE RESCUE<br>
Not that the Sino-Russian attempt to forestall the inevitable debacle awaiting the United NationsÂ’ Â“chastisementÂ” of Iran is possibleÂ—it is, nevertheless, noteworthy to observe the bear and the panda playing together:

Â“Time is rapidly running out for world leaders to reach a diplomatic resolution to the standoff over IranÂ’s nuclear program. But this has not discouraged final attempts at diplomacy. In the latest effort, Russia called on Friday for crisis talks with China, the United States, France, Germany and Britain, with the aim of reaching a long-sought consensus. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who described the current deadlock as Â‘critical,Â’ expressed hope that the informal talks could pave the way toward consensus in the UN Security Council, which is due to discuss the issue next week. But U.S. officials rejected RussiaÂ’s proposal, saying that the matter should now be left to the Security Council.Â”

Â“Most of the parties that have been involved in discussions over IranÂ’s nuclear program are still holding on to the hope, however slim, that a compromise can be reached through negotiation. Top officials from Russia, China and the European Union have expressed a desire to resolve the crisis through discussion. Even U.S. President George W. Bush on Friday voiced his wish to Â‘solve these issues diplomatically.Â’ But none have ruled out the possibility of sanctions if Tehran refuses to back down.Â” (Iran nuclear row proceeds toward the brink, despite compromise attempts, The Daily Star, Saturday, March 11, 2006)

Russia and China are Â“intimately involvedÂ” with IranÂ’s economy with trade between Iran and the Sino-Russians ever-increasing:

IRANÂ’S DAY OF INFAMYÂ… There's a Jackephant in the Room!

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:11:26 -0500

Â“Yesterday, December 7, 1941 Â– a date which will live in infamy Â– the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of JapanÂ”

(President Franklin Delano Roosevelt Â– Dec. 8, 1941 Â– Before the US Congress, Seeking a Declaration of War on the Empire of Japan)

ThereÂ’s a Jackephant in the roomÂ—a cross between a Jackass and an Elephant. HereÂ’s one issue of immense popularity: WAR ON IRAN!

What in the abyss is going on here? If you canÂ’t see, smell, hear, or feel the immensity of what happens when you cross a jackass with an elephant, then youÂ’re either incoherent, discombobulated, dysfunctional, illiterate or living in a world of complete unreality. Folks, this thingÂ’s cominÂ’ down and the Democrats and RepublicansÂ—the Neo-Cons and Christian ZionistsÂ—are all in on the take; each one trying to outdo the other in bringing the full fury of the US military upon Iran at the 5,000-capacity audience of the annual American-Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) meeting in Washington, D.C. held this first week of March, 2006.

Listen to the roar of the Hee Ha as the day of IranÂ’s infamy approaches:

Â“It is noteworthy that many other governments have begun to include the word Â‘sanctionsÂ’ in their discourse when discussing Iran. The Iran regime must be made aware that if it continues down the path of international isolation, there will be tangible and painful consequences.Â” (US Ambassador to the UN, John Bolton, Jerusalem Post, AIPAC Sends Tough Message to Iran, March 5, 2006).

And, if the United Nations does not act to isolate Iran through sanctions and other punitive efforts for IranÂ’s termination of deliberations with the IAEA, then Bolton conjectures:

BUSH-BLAIR & THE AXIS OF EVANGELICALS

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:09:02 -0500

How prudish of the British secularists to accuse their Prime Minister of evoking the Christian God as evidence of divine intervention into the affairs of war and peace! What godless sacrilege has been committed by Tony Blair! Alas! The unpardonable and disgusting sin was uttered from the lips of the UKÂ’s leadership. Surely, by profaning the altars of atheism and agnosticism he hath revealed his absolutist reliance once championed by Crusaders of yore. Worse yet, he followeth in the train of one, President George Bush, whose stalwart profession upon this same dependence causeth us to adjudge their alliance, cloaked in evangelical fervor, as THE AXIS OF EVANGELICALS!

Â“Mr. Blair answered Â‘yesÂ’ when asked on ITV1 chat show Parkinson - to be screened on Saturday - if he had sought holy intervention on the issue. Â‘Of course, you struggle with your own conscience about it... and itÂ’s one of these situations that, I suppose, very few people ever find themselves in.Â’ Anti-war campaigners attacked Mr. Blair's comments as Â‘a jokeÂ’. Mr. Blair told show host Michael Parkinson: Â‘In the end, there is a judgment that, I think if you have faith about these things, you realize that judgment is made by other people... and if you believe in God, itÂ’s made by God as well.Â’Â”

Â‘When you're faced with a decision like that, some of those decisions have been very, very difficult, most of all because you know these are people's lives and, in some case, their deaths. The only way you can take a decision like that is to do the right thing according to your conscience.Â’Â” (Blair Prayed to God over Iraq - BBC, March 3, 2006)

ItÂ’s this unsightly pontification on the part of BlairÂ—and especially his cohort, BushÂ—that incites the rhetoric of cheery EnglandÂ’s impassioned populous; some of whom do not share the same Blairish flare for a Â“just warÂ” akin to St. Augustine to wit:
Â“Anti-war campaigner Rose Gentle, whose son Gordon died in Basra in 2004, said: Â‘A good Christian wouldn't be for this war. Â‘I'm actually quite disgusted by the comments. ItÂ’s a joke.Â’ Dr Evan Harris, a Liberal Democrat MP and honorary associate of the National Secular Society, said the comments were Â‘bizarreÂ’ and warned against politicians making Â‘references to deityÂ’ in public life.Â” (Ibid Â– BBC)

Tony . . . in the name of secular-rational humanism, social evolution, enlightenment, scientific observation . . . as well as nihilism, meaningless existence, hedonism, and relativismÂ—please abstain from such bizarre reliance upon the supernatural....

THE IRRATIONAL GEOPOLITICAL EXUBERANCE OF THE LEFT

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:06:13 -0500

I really had a hard time coming up with the title of this pieceÂ—but after reading Information Clearing HouseÂ’s Paul Craig RobertsÂ’ tome entitled: From superpower to Tinhorn Dictatorship Â– and the calamitous conjectures coming out of the Econo-Libertarians of Europe - the choice was so obvious that to contrive any other entitlement was ludicrous!

The American Left and the Econo-Libertarians of Europe Â– and, for certain, the English-speaking West (especially, the UK and Canadian Left) have exceeded the bounds of geo-political reality that once won them intellectual respect and admiration for courage under fire. Unfortunately, an horrific disconnect has seized upon them. The Left-Econo-LibertariansÂ’ perceptions in surmising that Bush et al are somehow incapable of enhancing the underpinnings of the American Commercial Empire in light of IranÂ’s Euro-Oil-Bourse and the propping up of the dollar on a world-wide scale a la the IMF, the WTO, the World Bank and multiple Â“Free Trade ZonesÂ” is just plain wrong, bordering on intellectual dishonesty and economic distortions. One ponders the thoughtÂ—the Left Wing and Econo-Libertarians have an agenda that so skews the economic-political landscape, distorting the normal, clear-thinking and unprejudiced mind, that it may actually border on Michael SavageÂ’s hyperbole: Liberalism is a disease!

Who do the Left and Econo-Libertarians think theyÂ’re kidding: Surely not the worldÂ’s foremost economic empire ever to countenance the globe? What in the name of all rational thought do they who aspire to a more profound sense of intellect think theyÂ’re dealing withÂ—some befuddled Texan who canÂ’t pronounce Â“NUCLEAR?Â” IncredibleÂ—they surmise that America, and for that matter, everyone else involved in the Â“dollar charadeÂ”Â—somehow possess the awful notion of letting this mirage, perpetrated upon the global economy, dissolve into obscurity.

The American Left and the Econo-Libertarians are loosing their discernment when it comes to AmericaÂ’s ability to not only keep the status quoÂ—but to enhance her global economic empire no matter what the Iranians, the North Koreans, Al Qaeda, the Russians, the Euro, Chavez-Fidel, or whoever-whatever else would dare frustrate the worldÂ’s only super power: In sum: The Left and Econo-Libertarians have lost their scruples when it comes to figuring out the hegemonÂ’s dominance upon the worldÂ’s economy!

THE WISHFUL THINKING OF AMERICAÂ’S LEFT:

LetÂ’s take a look at the LeftÂ’s miscalculations....

BUSHÂ’S PORTS, IRANÂ’S BOURSE & MESSIANIC BOMBINGSÂ…

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:02:47 -0500

HeÂ’s knocked downÂ—but not out; delayedÂ—but not dismayedÂ—creepinÂ’ but not crawlinÂ’Â—and most assuredlyÂ—chuckinÂ’ and jivinÂ’! Are we talkinÂ’ Â“dumb as a rockÂ” or Â“dumb like a foxÂ” (maybe even Â“dumb like a fox-rockÂ”) regarding BushÂ’s alleged gaff over the U.A.E. taking over management/control of 21 (6 for sure) strategic America ports? SheepleÂ—itÂ’s time to think, and think critically for a change. Things like this just donÂ’t happenÂ—nor are things always what they appear to be. I mean, do you really believe this was the first time the President of the United States of America heard about this deal of an Arab State like the U.A.E.Â—one of only three nations on earth who had given the Taliban of Afghanistan legitimate recognition, and who the FBI confirmed allowed their banking system to funnel cash to Osama bin LadenÂ’s gang to wipe out AmericansÂ—taking over these ports?

Come on nowÂ—Bush wants Abu Dhabi/Dubai to transfer our military supplies in and out of AmericaÂ’s super ports, when the UAEÂ’s sterling track record shows they (1) function as a Â“key transfer point for illegal shipments of nuclear components to Iran, North Korea and Libya; and (2) did not cooperate in efforts to track down OBLÂ’s bank accounts (US Treasury Dept. ThinkProgress.org Â– 2/17/06).

And, what a deal have we here! One thingÂ’s certain: AmericaÂ’s LongshoremanÂ’s Union is about to be hammeredÂ—nothing like the Â“merchants of the earthÂ” squeezing out the last vestige of the American worker with any clout Â“from sea to shining seaÂ” all on behalf of the burgeoning skyline of Dubai, site of the worldÂ’s tallest structure (the 190-story Burj DubaiÂ—no wonder Michael Jackson lives here!....

THE ANTICHRIST IS NOT A JEW, THE POPE, ISLAM OR A JOKE (Part I)

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:00:39 -0500

Grant it, Talmudic Judaism, Roman Catholicism, and IslamÂ—let alone TheosophyÂ’s New Age Krishnamurti or Barbara AhoÂ’s Solomonic Judeo-Freemasonry Merovingian Dynasty Antichrist (i.e., Thomas Plantard de Saint-Clair)Â—all have been suspect in producing earthÂ’s final Apostate. East and West, the Oriental and Occidental, when holding the reigns of power (spiritual and political), vie for the ignoble source of this Despicable One; this Vile PersonÂ—whose names are legion throughout Holy Writ. Forgive, but apocalyptic allusions and theological eschatology are rife throughout this tome (especially the first part)Â—they do justice where justice is due!

My thesis is straightforward: Sarah, Hagar, Mary or the Â“New Age Axis of Blavatsky-AhoÂ” are not guilty in producing the Son of Perdition, the Man of Sin, the Lawless OneÂ—amongst them all, none will give birth to the Willful King, the Prince of Tyrus and King of Babylon; none will seduce the planetÂ’s unsuspecting by the Prince who is to comeÂ—The Coming Prince and Prince of the Covenant.

For centuries this CSI, crime scene investigation, has been in the making. Indeed, all three of the worldÂ’s great monotheistic religionsÂ—Judaism, Christianity, and IslamÂ—are found at the scene of the Wicked OneÂ’s final revelationÂ—flirting with the Â“spirit of Antichrist gone out into the worldÂ” and caught in some way collaborating with the Second Beast known as the False ProphetÂ—but their presence at the site, though incriminating, does not implicate their enabling and suspicious ways, as the final act of desecration, the Abomination of Desolation, transpires.

This Satanic transfiguration, wherein Antichrist takes on all the authority, intellect, and deceit of the Father of LiesÂ—through the falsification of the resurrection and incarnation by the Evil OneÂ—will be revealed as THE BEAST from the Abyss, demanding uncontested adoration and worshipÂ—which none of these religions at their core, though corrupted, will afford! Hence, they will all sufferÂ—though many will be compromisedÂ—as the Time of JacobÂ’s Trouble; the final Reign of Beastly Terror envelopes the inhabitants of the earth....

Non Prophet Cartoons - ISLAM vs. THE WEST

Sun, 19 Feb 2006 09:20:26 -0500

In the Name of Allah vs. In the Name of Liberty

The WestÂ—specifically, the European WestÂ—stands aghast at IslamÂ’s violent reaction to its comedic caricature of the Prophet and ponders: Shall we who enshrine our sacred rights to human expression suffer these cultural indignities and blatant intimidations designed to ultimately extinguish Â“our rights?Â” This is outrageous and morally repugnant to cower before a medieval culture that treats women, religious minorities and all things Â“civilizedÂ” with intolerance. Alas! Let us speak out in vehement solidarity against this Â“Scourge of GreenÂ” which seeks to smother some 500-years of Enlightenment!

Reaction to the WestÂ’s Renaissance, Reformation, Enlightenment, and social revolutions which gave birth to Democracy-Capitalism, Socialism and even CommunismÂ—yea, to the Â“absolute profaneÂ” of SECULARISM, where the triumph of the individual and of the Â“rights of manÂ” are worshipped with such unwavering adulationÂ—have now collided with IslamÂ’s sacred honor in a crescendo of religio-philosophical disparity that not only refuses to go away, but is exploited by both the Axis of Evil (Syria and Iran), as well as welcomed (by Bush and the Neo-con all-out war throng).

As implacable a foe as the New WorldÂ’s citadel of American Christian fundamentalism is to Islam, even so, is the Â“Religion of Secular-HumanismÂ” found in Western Europe as much, or more, an enemy to Islam. Indeed, the Â“righteous indignationÂ” found throughout the Western European media in response to the desecration of her embassies and trade throughout the Islamic World, because of these cartoons, goes beyond a wakeup call for European secularism.

THE PRINCE OF THE COVENANT

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 19 Feb 2006 09:18:16 -0500

The U.S.-Israel Strategic Alliance Part 4

No matter what setbacksÂ—is alive, well and proceeding to its logical conclusion: The U.S.-Israel Defense Pact [1]. IranÂ’s determination to resuscitate its nuclear program; the Sharon Â“X-FactorÂ”Â—i.e., Israel after Sharon; and the incessant insurgency in Iraq [2], along with increasing agitation from Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah and other belligerents, have all converged to create the perfect geopolitical storm. We await the unprecedented admission that Israel and the USA will no longer regard as politically embarrassing nor strategically ill-advised vis-Ã -vis the Arab world to openly declare a comprehensive Â“peace accordÂ” guaranteeing IsraelÂ’s securityÂ—once and for all! [3]

The debateÂ—or wishful thinking on the part of Â“fair-mindedÂ” (not to say they are not) American Middle East policy wonks like Michael Lind, The Nation et alÂ—over linking Israeli behavior to U.S. support for Israel juxtaposed to the minuscule issue of those in America who want Israel to survive and those (a tiny minority) who do not: Simply ainÂ’t Â‘gonna happen! The pro-Israel lobby is overwhelming in driving the alliance between the USA and IsraelÂ—AIPAC (America-Israel Public Affairs Committee), along with other American Jewish Organizations; the powerful, though at times mercurial Evangelical-Zionists (witness Brother PatÂ’s absurdities); and the ever influential Neo-Con EstablishmentÂ—all demand it, and, furthermore, the punditocracy incessantly clamors for it!

Bush's Bold Peace Initiative - Israel after Sharon

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 19 Feb 2006 09:15:49 -0500

The colossus of IsraelÂ’s Center-Right is no more. SharonÂ’s cerebral hemorrhage, induced coma, and declared departure from IsraelÂ’s political life have created a grave and vacuous ability for Israel to carry on viable negotiations with either the Palestinians or other belligerents. This assessment is more an international impression and less an Israeli one; however, it is the international communityÂ’s perception that overwhelms.

Successors are no where to be found compared with the stature and personality of the Â“Bulldozer.Â” PM stand-in, Ehud Olmert, the quintessential bureaucrat, along with recently-rejected Labor leader, Shimon PeresÂ—may try, but their finest hour will not survive the Humpty-Dumpty fall that Kadima (Â“forwardÂ”) sustained. Likewise, who knows, heard and seen LaborÂ’s new choice: Amir Peretz? All we know is that heÂ’s a flaming socialist!

That leaves Benjamin Netanyahu and the party which Sharon forsook, Likud. Kicking off the New Year some 400 Likud delegates championed the actions of a former leader of Likud, Menachem Begin: Preemptively destroy IranÂ’s all too clear nuclear programÂ—designed to Â“Wipe Israel off the Map!Â”

Likud member, RaÂ’anana Deputy Mayor Uzi Cohen, expressed the overwhelming majority of Likud members: Â“Bomb IranÂ’s nuclear reactor before it is too late.Â” The echo from IranÂ’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad mirrored his holocaust remarksÂ—Sharon should die.

AMERICA - Boom Or Doom?

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 19 Feb 2006 09:10:08 -0500

America: Boom or Bust? Is the economy robust and growing as the administration and most analysts insist? They say the fundamentals are good Â– inflation is under control, economic growth is steady and unemployment is low! DoesnÂ’t the government have it all under control? They say America is the capital manager of the world. It is so big and powerful that deficits and trade imbalances donÂ’t matter. The world needs us. They need our dollars! They need our genius.

History is on the side of the experts. There has been no repeat of the Great Depression. America seems to be more prosperous than ever as our own modern day Â“Wizard of OzÂ”, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve sits at the complicated controls of the economy and tweaks the interest rates, reserve requirements and money supply.

Few understand how the economy works. We sit back and think and consume. We donÂ’t make much anymore. Others work and make things for us and loan us money so we can buy the things they make. You donÂ’t need a Ph.D. in economics to sense something may be wrong with this picture. How can you be wealthy by consuming alone? Few can cut through the technical jargon, spin and misleading and conflicting views. IÂ’m going to try and lay it out for you in simple laymanÂ’s terms...

HE WILL ALSO INVADE THE BEAUTIFUL LAND

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 19 Feb 2006 09:05:51 -0500

US / Israel Strategic Alliance Part 3

THE WESTÂ’S INTRUSION INTO THE LAND OF THE PATRIARCHSÂ—NOTHING BUT TOTAL VICTORY!

The WestÂ’s fascination with the Holy LandÂ—the Â“Beautiful LandÂ” or Â“Glorious LandÂ” (Daniel 11:41)Â—be it for Â“hidden/materialÂ” or Â“prophetic/spiritualÂ” treasures, has climaxed at the apex of the modern era in AmericaÂ’s most recent intrusion into Iraq.
The last Caliphate, the Ottoman Turks, collapsed at the close of World War I. On December 11, 1917, British Field Marshal, Edmund Allenby, dismounted, and walked through JerusalemÂ’s Jaffa Gate, in honor of the three great religions as the Allies eventually wrested control of the Levant from the decrepit OttomansÂ—thusly, was this member of the Axis Powers dismembered.

Â“By December, 1917, Allenby had moved upwards from Egypt and captured Jerusalem. As the first Christian conqueror of the Holy City since the Crusades, Allenby ordered his troops to dismount as a mark of respect when they entered the city.Â” (PBS, Lawrence of Arabia).

HE WILL CONFIRM A COVENANT WITH MANY

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 19 Feb 2006 08:59:49 -0500

US / Israel Strategic Alliance Part 2
DRIVING THE U.S.-ISRAEL Â“STRATEGIC DIALOGUEÂ”

Â“Strategic DialogueÂ” talks between the U.S. and IsraelÂ—were commenced in earnest at the end of November, 2005 (U.S. State Dept. Bulletin). These Â“talksÂ” are propelled to their inevitable conclusion (i.e., the U.S.-ISRAEL DEFENSE PACT/TREATY) by IranÂ’s preposterous charges this past week: No Jewish Holocaust under Hitler; Israel is a Â“Zionist-European TumorÂ” which, ipso facto, should be excised from the Middle East and transplanted into Germany-Austria; and, Â“no, weÂ’re not making a Weapon of Mass Destruction, even though Â‘Israel must be wiped off the map!Â” (My conjectures.)
Historic revisionism is alive and wellÂ—therefore, do not conclude that this series on the Â“Strategic and Eschatological ImperativesÂ” embedded in the U.S.-Israel Defense Pact (upcoming) is as naÃ¯ve as you may have surmised (i.e., pure speculation and benignly obscure Christian fundamentalism gone amok). IsraelÂ’s audacious materialityÂ—in spite of the Adolf Hitler-Grand Mufti, Haj Mohammed Amin Al-Husseini original Axis of EvilÂ—mocks the secular outrage toward Zionism and declares heretical the blather, and hyper symbolism of Biblical liberalism!....

YOUR COVENANT WITH DEATH Â– YOUR AGREEMENT WITH HELL

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Tue, 13 Dec 2005 22:09:52 -0500

US / Israel Strategic Alliance PART I

Description

If Israel were attacked, it would be the same as an attack on the USAÂ—this is the essence of a DEFENSE PACT between Israel and the USA. Israel's security would be underwritten by the United States of America; and, the commencement of that ultimate securityÂ—the quest of numerous US Presidents and Israeli leadersÂ—would at last be actualized. Now, in Washington, D.C., for the first time since 2002, Israeli and American diplomats and military personnel earnestly endeavor to address Iran's threat of WMD, and the mutual persistence of terror against both nations (December 2005). What awful contemplation: Is this the final deception spoken of by Daniel the Prophet and Isaiah: Your Covenant with Death Â– Your Agreement with Hell?

Israel Must Be Wiped Off The Map!

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Mon, 14 Nov 2005 18:23:57 -0500

CARTHAGE MUST BE DESTROYED

Carthage was RomeÂ’s implacable foe; thus, did the Roman Senator Cato conclude whatever the topic at hand on the floor of the Senate with: Â“Carthago delenda estÂ” Â– Carthage must be destroyed! Eventually, once the Senate of Rome realized her proximity to the pesky Punic, they attacked with impunity and wiped them off the map in the Third Punic War (149-146 BC), salting HannibalÂ’s commercial bastion, never to have her rise again; thus RomeÂ’s supreme illustration of brutality and imperial ambition incorporated, like the Borg of Star Trek, the commercial aspects of Empire.

Alas! Meeting the challenge of President BushÂ’s infamous remarks hurled at the Axis of Evil (which clearly includes Iran), and reinforced by his NED speech given on October 6, 2005 to wit:

Â“ . . . authoritarian regimes, allies of convenience like Syria and Iran, that share the goal of hurting American and moderate Muslim governments, and use terrorist propaganda to blame their own failures on the West and America, on the Jews . . . weÂ’re determined (against Syrian and Iran) to deny radical groups the support and sanctuary of outlaw regimes . . . STATE-SPONSORS like Syria and Iran have a long history of collaboration with terrorists, and they DESERVE NO PATIENCE FROM THE VICTIMS OF TERROR. The United States makes no distinction between those who commit acts of terror and those who support and harbor them, BECAUSE THEYÂ’RE EQUALLY AS GUILTY OF MURDER. Any government that chooses to be an ally of terror has also chosen to be an enemy of civilization . . . and the civilized world must hold those regimes to account.Â”

. . . Mahmoud Ahmadinejad decided to fight fire with fire: ISRAEL MUST BE DESTROYED! He shot back at the Â“World Without ZionismÂ” conference held in Tehran this week against the United States and Israel (a.k.a., the USA=The Great Satan; Israel=The Little SatanÂ…DiscoverTheNetworks). Ahmadinejad called Israel a Â“disgraceful blotÂ” on the Islamic world, and the US Middle East Â“roadmapÂ” nothing more than a diversion from the crusader wars between the Islamic world and perceived imperialists like the USA (http://news.viewlondon.co.uk)

Â“Israel must be Â‘wiped off the mapÂ’ . . . she is a Â‘disgraceful blotÂ’ on the Islamic world . . . the US Middle East Roadmap to peace is a diversion from the crusader wars between the Islamic world and perceived imperialists such as the United States. Furthermore, IranÂ’s President attacked other Muslim nations which recognize the legitimacy of the Jewish state (an obvious allusion to Egypt). Israel is naught but the product of an ideological struggle between the Â‘Arrogant World OrderÂ’ and Â‘Islamic rule.Â’Â” (News.viewlondon.co.uk)

Quoting Mr. Ahmadinejad:

Â“Over the past 100 years, the last bastions of the Islamic world have collapsed. The World Arrogance turned the Zionist regime occupying Jerusalem into a staging-ground to dominate the Islamic world . . . there continues a historic war between the World Arrogance and the Islamic World, the roots of which go back hundreds of years ago.Â”
Now that sounds vaguely familiar. In my last article, Â“The Crusader vs. The CaliphateÂ” President Bush targeted the source of terrorismÂ’s frustration:

Â“The excuses for violence (range from) the Israeli presence on the West Bank . . . the U.S. military presence in Saudi Arabia . . . the defeat of the Taliban . . . or the CRUSADES of a thousand years ago.Â”...

The Crusader vs. The Caliphate

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Mon, 14 Nov 2005 18:16:19 -0500

THE GREEN CURTAIN

From the Pillars of Hercules to the Indonesia Archipelago a vile and putrid Green Curtain threatens its descent to enshroud and enslave a vast swath of earthÂ’s inhabitants. An Islamic Empire, the resurrection of the Moslem Caliphate, envelopes Â“with greater economic and military and political power . . . able to advance their stated agenda: to develop weapons of mass destruction . . . destroy Israel . . . intimidate Europe . . . assault the American people . . . and blackmail our government into isolation.Â” (Remarks by President Bush before the National Endowment for Democracy on the War on Terror, October, 2005).

Â“We will confront this mortal danger to all humanity . . . We will not tire, or rest . . . we will see freedom's victory . . . we must stop them . . . we will never back down, never give in, and never accept anything less than complete victory . . . there is no peace without victory . . . we will keep our nerve and we will win that victory!

Â“The militants believe that controlling one country will rally the Muslim masses, enabling them to overthrow all moderate governments in the region, and establish a radical Islamic empire that spans from Spain to Indonesia . . . they are fanatical and extreme . . . utterly committed . . . As Zarqawi has vowed, Â‘We will either achieve victory over the human race or we will pass to the eternal lifeÂ’ . . . we must stop them before their crimes can multiply!Â” (Excerpts from Bush's speech.)

(http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2005/10/20051006-3.html)

THE WAR AGAINST HUMANITY

The battle lines are clearly drawn; the identity of the implacable foe utterly delineated; the sinister intentions and methodologies of this cowardly lot have been, by our President, exposed before the whole world for what they really are: THE HERETICS OF ISLAM!

Furthermore, Â“these extremists want to end American and Western influence in the broader Middle East, because we stand for democracy and peace, and stand in the way of their ambitions (as quoted by Osama bin Laden, Al QaedaÂ’s leader): Â‘(We) dedicate our resources, sons and money to driving the infidels out of (our) lands . . . The whole world is watching this war and the two adversaries (viz. Western Civilization vs. Islamic Civilization) . . . ItÂ’s either victory and glory, or misery and humiliation!Â” (OBL).

The President likened Â“Radical IslamÂ’s . . . war against humanityÂ” (i.e., the Â“civilized worldÂ”) to the struggle against fanatical despots like Hitler, Stalin, and Pol PotÂ—branding them all as Â“EVIL MEN, obsessed with ambition and unburdened by conscience.Â”

Theirs is a Â“murderous ideology . . . the great challenge of our new century!Â” They are the killers of Â“Daniel Pearl, Nicholas Berg, Margaret Hassan and of Theo Van Gogh.Â” They justify their random killings Â“ . . . because I believe you are an infidel.Â”

They hide behind the Â“veneer of religious rhetoric . . . (they wish to) rule the soul itself . . . While promising a future of justice and holiness.Â” Indeed, the PresidentÂ’s religious definitions/expressions swirl throughout his entire speech: Â“The excuses for violence (range from) the Israeli presence on the West Bank . . . the U.S. military presence in Saudi Arabia . . . the defeat of the Taliban . . . or the CRUSADES of a thousand years ago.Â”

An Experiment in Â“Church LifeÂ”

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 9 Oct 2005 13:55:45 -0500

Is a dynamic living church life where everyone is a participant rather than a spectator, where everyone brings a psalm, a hymn, a testimony or revelation, even possible in these days? This has been described in Chapters 18-20 in the book Recognizing Apostasy and Deception, but is it possible today? Where would I find such a living community of saints? How could I be a part of such a Â“body lifeÂ”? Where do I find it?
The problem is that Christians donÂ’t know what to do. They donÂ’t know where to turn. It is an oxymoron to say that Christians tend to be found in churches. ThatÂ’s what they do. ThatÂ’s where they go for fellowship. But when they get there they find a stultifying, self-perpetuating organization Â– not a living organism where every member functions. The pastor sits on top of the hierarchy (even though there may be a board of some sort). He is expected to do the heavy spiritual lifting Â– the counseling, the message on Sunday, the organization and all the rest that goes into running a Â“churchÂ”. Members find themselves relegated to less than meaningful tasks of ushering, passing the offering plate, setting up chairs, working in the nursery, teaching Sunday School (the only legitimate spiritual function so far) and baking casseroles for potlucks. Other than that, they follow along with the order of worship Â– sing the songs selected by the music group, pray along with the pastorÂ’s invocations and listen attentively to the message and so on.

IÂ’m not attacking the pastors. They are doing their best. They are doing what they are expected to do. ThatÂ’s their job. But I am attacking the pastoral system because it perpetuates what is basically a one man show and keeps the rest of the members from having a meaningful opportunity for outflow and ministry. So how can we change the system?

HISTORICISTS and FUTURISTS MUST UNITE!

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 9 Oct 2005 13:54:02 -0500

Jack - I appreciate the Scripture readings--readings which most believers, unfortunately, deem unable to pay their bills; therefore, superficially discount their relevance . . . and in so doing, do great disservice to themselves as Christians, to the world as a testimony to His prophetic Word, and ultimately to the Almighty Who, I am persuaded, does not take lightly such "Scriptural discounts!"

Having commended you in presenting these texts and the brief "historicists'" interpretations regarding the ten horns (primarily the barbarian tribes/peoples who conquered/plundered ancient Rome) and the 11th horn (the rise of the Papacy) and the three "uprooted horns" (Vandals, Ostrogoth, Heruli), I would encourage my brethren who attempt to bring comfort and meaning in the midst of the Church's suffering at the hands of the False Prophet throughout the Church Age to revisit these astounding passages to confirm additional possibilities as to their fulfillment.

Naturally, I speak of a more "futurist" hermeneutic (though clearly unfolding throughout the Church Age), which likewise seeks to make of these same verses profound meaning and relevance.

Might you consider that Papal Rome is throughout the ages that reference to Jezebel's folly culminating in the great end-times' apostasy led by that system which has inflicted our brethren throughout the centuries--surely, today she seeks to pollute the world and Church with her fornications and now unites with the UN to umbrella all in a mad attempt at ecumenism wherein all "religions" of the earth are headed up by her embrace?

Yet, as that same Papal Harlot, because of Christ's decisive injunction to render to Caesar what is his and to God's what is His, fully understood (and understands) that she could/cannot unequivocally supplant the State, she devised the "Doctrine of the Two Swords"--wherein the Church and State are upon "separate but equal" footings...

Moving To Canada Is A Joke!

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 9 Oct 2005 13:51:01 -0500

Eh? I can think of scores of reasons to move to Canada (or opt for the Mexican Riviera) . . . any place but Babylon the Great: The USA. The War in Iraq . . . or better yet: The entire Military-Industrial Complex sucking the life-blood out of Americana for starters (Witness the latest revelations on Â“Operation Able DangerÂ”Â—see below). Or, how about the whole hedonistic culture of greed, avaricious appetites, and super sizing all things godly and ungodlyÂ—from Hollywood to Mega Churches; indeed, ours is a Â“city set on a hill which cannot be hidÂ” but the closer you get to this glittering jewel, the more it resembles the Â“Little Shop of Horrors,Â” you know, that flesh-eating plant crying out: Feed me, Seymour! Conspicuous consumption of a nation which spends $1.8 Billion more each day than the whole earth combined and finds herself some $14 Trillion in debt (National Debt + Balance of Payment/Trade Debts) is a bit too much, wouldnÂ’t you say?Â—after all, she represents but 5% of the world's population.

Come on, half the eagle is in a declared state of emergency and the overt identification by Big Brother of all things human is prepared and/or is itching to pounce upon American liberties once thought sacrosanct by both the ACLU and the NRA by euphemistic legislation called Patriotic Acts, and finally, a cashless society where all of us are implanted with chips awaiting true identity and debit through scanning devices at your local Safeway...

Patriotic Armageddon - Can You Hear Me Now??

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 21 Aug 2005 01:56:16 -0500

Each day the present geo-political reality confirms what The Tribulation Network has been saying for the past two years! All this, while the world still debates whether or not we should call the current War on Terrorism/Terror: The West vs. Radical Islam!
Now, the EU and Iran squabble over Iran's real intentionsÂ—but the US makes plans for taking out Iran's nuclear threatÂ—this week (August 1-7) is the turning point! Bolton is in place at the UNÂ—Bush is ready to move and faster than you think.

We have termed the spiritual force(s) behind Â“Radical IslamÂ” the rise of Â“GogÂ” that great principality the Bible declares, who under the Prince of Darkness (both now, as found in Ezekiel 38, 39, and Daniel 11:40-45; and at the close the Millennium in Revelation 20:7-10), is summoned to confront Israel at the Â“End of DaysÂ” AND at the conclusion of millenarian bliss.

To announce this, to be utterly cognizant and Biblically affirmed in this scenario, does not mean that we here at The Tribulation Network are hell-bent on an Armageddon strategy and full of gloom and doom. There's hope beyond the criminality and destruction that is going on out thereÂ—most of which acclaims Â“peace and safetyÂ” to all who would join in assailing the prospect of Gog and those allied with this principality (Magog).

Kenneth TimmermanÂ’s much-acclaimed exposure on Teheran's intentions has been given overwhelming exposure in the Â“conservative mediaÂ” and even some liberals concur with his nuclear suspicions. A quick read of TimmermanÂ’s immediate conclusions portend an exceedingly aggressive Iran with 30 deliverable nukes on the readyÂ—weÂ’re talking a major crisis here where even the French (can you believe) would side with the US and go after Iran!...

Modern Alchemy: The Money Illusion (Part 2)

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 21 Aug 2005 01:51:26 -0500

Introduction

The last article titled Â“Lies, Damned Lies and Statistics Â– U.S. Government Economic ReportingÂ”, we looked at the whole issue of the twisted nature of government reporting and the origin of the Federal Reserve, which is neither Â“federalÂ” nor does it have any Â“reserves.Â” It just prints money out of whole cloth, literally. How does it do it? How is money created? What really stands behind it? What are bonds? What does this all mean to me? How is our money supply controlled? What about interest rates? How did the dollar become the standard currency for the whole world?

Who are we to believe? Is the economy as rosy as the government reports and media pundits report? Is housing going up forever? Will our spending binge go on forever? Do we have to produce anything or is it just okay to consume (70 percent of our economy)? Why shouldnÂ’t the world take care of us?

I know this may be boring to some, but you should understand how the system works because it affects you every day of your life. Alan Greenspan, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve, pretends to be a befuddled old man trying to figure out what is happening and talks in Â“Greenspan-speakÂ”, a language that few can truly decipher. In the next two parts, I am going to prove to you that the government, the Federal Reserve, and Greenspan know exactly what they are doing. How does this work? What does it all mean in practical terms? In this section we are going to look at how money works. In the next part, we will look at what is happening right now, how the economy is being manipulated and how it is likely to affect us. The final part will conclude with a look at the mystery commercial empire spoken of in Revelation 18 and how this all fits together....

The Elephant Roared, And Brought Fourth A Turd!

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Sun, 21 Aug 2005 01:47:31 -0500

A Case Against Democratizing The Middle East! by Doug Krieger

The original vulgarity was bylined: Â…The Constipation of America's Mid-East Peace Policy!
It is with some trepidation that I embark upon this discourse; for one, out of respect for elephants, but more so because within the American framework of democracy I have so greatly benefited. Thus, to liken the extension of AmericaÂ’s efforts to democratize the civil administrations of Moslem statesÂ—even with the caveat "considering cultural sensitivities"Â—to the intestinal hardships of our beloved pacaderm is in itself cause for internal consternation, reflection, and a longing for interior relief.

"STUNT OMNES UNUM"

The current administration's mascot bears some responsibility for the chosen political metaphor; however, it must be duly noted, that this article could just as well be entitled: Asinus asinorum in saecula saeculorum! (Latin for: "The Jackass of Jackasses in the Centuries of Centuries", or "The Greatest Jackass in Eternity"Â—this, and other Latin expressions in honor of Pax Americana will be duly sprinkled throughout this missive)Â—giving equal honors to both dominate American political parties for their extended efforts at peace in the Middle East, for: Stunt omnes unum . . . they are all one!

Indeed, by giving credit to where credit is due, we must keep in mind that the commonality of purpose to secure America's interests in the Middle East and, ipso facto, the West's energy spicket, via propping up its Islamic dictatorships, or hastening the democratization of the region, is the continuous policy of both Democratic and Republican State DepartmentsÂ—make no mistake about it.

The Democrats differ only in the design of a better mouse trap and have no right to cast their stones of dispersion from their glass palace at the failed policies of the GOPÂ—policies now garbed in democratic hyperbole....

Hitler's Positive Christianity - Unleashing The Patriotic Church

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Mon, 4 Jul 2005 12:52:39 -0500

NEVER IN AMERICA?

This article was written by one of German ancestry whose forebears on his mother's side can be traced to Martin Luther himself; thence, the incessant interest in the rise of Adolf Hitler and, in particular (through years of research) the under girding support he derived in his ascendancy from the Christian religion in the heart of Europe. How could this possibly happen? Alas! Could we in America be as deceitfully predisposed to such a malevolent curseÂ—driven by the same demons? Do we today witness camouflaged strategies designed to accomplish a greater horror of unimaginable consequence and upon Christendom of like vulnerability?

The remotest thought of such an evil plot akin to what seduced the German people could somehow be foisted upon our beloved America boggles the senses . . . yet, each day, each month, the same cultural polarization eerily divides; the similitude of its military-industrial complex mirrors that of Rome's expansions; its cries for greater and more restrictive security for its citizenry clamors; its tenuous economic factors now threatening the globalism it created as a result of the insatiable consumption of all things luxurious persistÂ—all this while within the walls of our crystal city, the party is oblivious to the multitude of the wretched outside who admire and distain its opulence. Are there comparisons? Be not quick in your rejection that alleged Â“systemsÂ” now in placeÂ—with histories of wide disparityÂ—insure Americans absolute relief from the extremities of Nazi Germany . . . look again, look carefully, very carefully . . . history's mercurial habit at repetition seeks to warn us all . . . Â“broad is the way that leadeth to destruction and many there be that go in thereat.Â”

THE INTOXICATING APPEAL

To understand the appeal, the absolute, mesmerizing, and intoxicating drive behind Hitler's success, one must go beyond the inequities of the Versailles Treaty and delve into the mysterious association that Herr Hitler placed upon the Christian religion. Don't think that Adolf was way off into some cultic, overtly demonic world of fantasy and influence. True, the occult most assuredly was deeply engaged in his thinking and outlookÂ—but the use of legitimate Christian imagery was his forte. He both understood the need to mobilize the masses and the religion that alone could sway their fidelity to his cause.

Furthermore, throughout his declarations and apparent pontifications, is a unique ability to uplift and galvanize the German peopleÂ—to so highly esteem them, and to generate within them the self-esteem that would produce a people whose image reflected the one who had so unalterably changed and transformed them into the awesome enunciation of "der Fuhrer" himself. They became transfixed and transported into another state of mind and beingÂ—from despair and rejection, to an exhilarating euphoria and total acceptance. They could BE ALL THAT THEY COULD BE and then some. Here is no buffoon strutting upon the stage of German dejection cavalierly riveting the German mind and will upon himselfÂ—no, no, no!

Here is the uniqueness of Adolf HitlerÂ—one who could so verbalize with utter clarity what the German soul could be in its fullness and creative genius. Neither did his spoken word proclaim his own commitment and geniusÂ—it climaxed within the Germany he envisioned in such a rapturous expression and discovery of who they were, and what they could become, with God Almighty vindicating every breath they would take! Hitler injected into nearly every German heart a DIVINE SPARK, which regrettably morphed into an inferno of destruction and death unforeseen in human historyÂ—but its initial dissension upon its benefactors was replete with a baptism of power and light utterly transcendent that it captured an entire nation in the heart of Christian Europe. Its pristine message created the IMAGE of DAS VOLK, a people who were destined by the very triumph of their corporate will to be the consummation and commencement of the Kingdom of GodÂ—DAS THOUSANDE JAHRE REICH! (The promised millennial reignÂ—one thousand year kingdom)...

Lies, Damned Lies, and Statistics - The US Economic Reports

Dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Mon, 4 Jul 2005 12:58:42 -0500

Mark Twain, who said Â“there are three kinds of lies Â– lies, damned lies and statisticsÂ”, would turn over in his grave if he knew what the government had been doing with its reporting. As a result of government hype and reporting, the June Consumer Confidence Index soared the month of June 2005 to 105.8 and the stock market rose triple digits on the news. Optimism abounds as the economy appears to be doing well. Housing continues to rise. The government tells us that new jobs are being created, inflation is under control and the economy is growing. If you listen carefully to the pundits on MSNBC, CNBC, CNN, FOX and the networks, they all say things are getting better and better. Just this morning (June 28, 2005) on NBC Good Morning America, Treasury Secretary Snow declared that all the economic indicators are good and the basics of the economy are sound. We are told that Real Estate will always go up. So will the stock markets (at least for the long haul). We Americans are bullish on the future.

This is the first of a multi-part series titled, Â“Game Over Â– Collapse of the World Economic System.Â” What we are facing is literally a disaster of Biblical proportions. The longer the growth cycle goes, the greater the fall in the end. We don't know when this will happen, but it will. There are extremely powerful forces keeping the whole system propped up and many prognosticators of gloom and doom have been proven wrong. If you understand what has happened and is happening, you will see why the eventual fall is inevitable.

In order to understand what is happening in the world of economics you have to understand things from GodÂ’s perspective Â– from a prophetic Biblical perspective and then you have to dig deep to find out what is REALLY happening in the world today. But before we do that, we have to realize that there is a great deception out there Â– a kind of George OrwellÂ’s 1984 Â“double speakÂ” being carried out by our government.

The same government that lied about Pearl Harbor, the Gulf of Tonkin, Kosovo and Iraq has been lying to the American public about the economy for years by changing rules and definitions, twisting and turning Â– spinning the news with the full support of the pundits who work for the corporate controlled news networks. Analysts whose real job is to sell and hype stocks ignore the facts and keep the smiley face on so that people will continue to buy stocks, refinance their homes, use their credit cards and run deeper and deeper into debt thinking they are attaining the American Dream. LetÂ’s face it, the analysts job is to build up the market Â– not tell the truth.

Greenspan and the Federal Reserve continue to act confused about what is happening. They give the impression of trying their best to keep the American economic engine on track. He assures us that inflation is under control, that the housing industry just has a little Â“frothÂ” in it, but that the economy is growing soundly at a 3.5 to 4 percent clip.

So can the United States continue to have massive budget deficits, massive trade deficits and continue to lose productive capacity to other countries and still be the great consumer nation of the world? Are we looking at a mere slowdown or something worse? We, as Americans, are an optimistic people with such faith in our country, and if past performance is any judge, reason to continue to have great faith. The question is, have changes been occurring right under our nose without our even knowing about it? Has there been a massive cover up to keep us in the dark?

So let's look at the American government's reporting on the economy: inflation, growth, unemployment, cost of living indices, etc. Let's see how reporting has changed over the years in order to hide the real situation from the public and experts alike.

Behold, The Prince Of Persia! - Get Ready For War With Iran.

doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Mon, 4 Jul 2005 13:04:35 -0500

A witch's brew: The mixture of religion and politics. ThatÂ’s precisely what this article has done! Scott Ritter's analysis that the US is technically at war with Iran (as we speak), and that this can be validated by the same preparations and activity prior to the Coalition of the Willing's incursion into Iraq in early 2003, is ominous and, unfortunately, overall trustworthy. Our analysis confronts the majority opinion expressed by conservative Christians in the pursuit of the War on Terror against the Â“evil doersÂ” . . . and why the Â“American Patriotic ChurchÂ” is theologically resolute in its support for the Administration's designs in the Middle EastÂ—the moral under girding in the Neo-Con implementation of Democratic Globalism is just about to be wildly tested, once again.

DÃ‰JÃ€ VU (Where have I heard this before?)

(Note: May I warn you from the outset . . . this treatise may commence with the levitas of Â“secularÂ” indiscretions, comments and analysis . . . but it will culminate with relevant theological gravitas . . . bear with me; and, oddly enough, the article actually Â“hangs togetherÂ”)

Â“President Bush had signed a covert finding in late spring 2002, which authorized the CIA and US Special Operations forces to dispatch clandestine units into Iraq for the purpose of removing Saddam Hussein from power. The fact is that the Iraq war had begun by the beginning of summer 2002, if not earlier . . . as was the case with Iraq pre-March 2003, the Bush administration today speaks of "diplomacy" and a desire for a "peaceful" resolution to the Iranian question. But the facts speak of another agenda, that of war and the forceful removal of the theocratic regime, currently wielding the reigns of power in Tehran . . . as with Iraq, the president has paved the way for the conditioning of the American public and an all-too-compliant media to accept at face value the merits of a regime change policy regarding Iran, linking the regime of the Mullah's to an "axis of evil" (together with the newly "liberated" Iraq and North Korea), and speaking of the absolute requirement for the spread of "democracy" to the Iranian people. (Scott Ritter, July 2005, RENSE.COM)

History tends to repeat itself. Yes, but this fast? Yes, again! Scott Ritter, beloved voice of the Left for his criticisms of the War in Iraq, is a former intelligence officer for the United States Marine Corps (where he served as the lead analyst for the Marine Corps Rapid Deployment Force concerning the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and the Iran-Iraq War). Also, this Â“Army of OneÂ” was the key coordinator for the implementation of UNSC (United Nations Security Council) resolutions mandating the elimination of Iraqi WMD.

So . . . BAM! Ritter gets top billing in Aljazeera for his prophetic outbursts by likening Bush's pre-invasion tactics of Iraq with what's happening now in Iran. Indeed, the parallels are staggering and overwhelmingly convincing, even to the God bless America crowdÂ—who, unfortunately, demand that the present conflict be expanded to include the entire Â“Axis of EvilÂ” (along with a few lesser-rans like Syria and the rest of those mad bombers running around loose out there). They need to be hunted down and democratized, so the Free World can get on with globalization, along with unhindered economic growth in the USA.

Nothing, absolutely nothing, can stop the cheap money pouring into the US economy (and, ipso facto, the accelerated/unimaginable sky rocketing prices found in the US housing market today) from central banks, all to willing to finance the national debt in order to keep Americans buying their cheap products.

The foreign purchase of US bonds, in order to finance our nearly $8 Trillion Trade Deficit (now outpacing our National Debt (also $8 Trillion) by nearly twice as fast), places uninhibited pressure upon lenders and mortgage companies to keep interest rates artificially low, which in turn directly exacerbate the already inflated housing market driving the current Â“economic boom/bubble.Â”

One must ponder the intoxicating influences of that Great City prophesied in Scripture with a new understanding of what it means to be addicted to alcoholÂ—talk about going on a bender (i.e., a massive drunken spree), with absolutely no desire for a 12 Step or Â“WagonÂ” experience!

Â“For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxuryÂ” (Revelation 18:3).

Of course, all this apocalyptic hyperbole, according to our what-me-worry Preterist buds, took place years ago (like 1900 years ago) around 100 A.D. . . . . So, who cares about Bible prophecy anyway, right? After all, who wants to live in an encumbered future full of doom and gloom and Â“Ritter rhetoricÂ” that smacks of Â“American hate speakÂ” and, furthermore, borders (no, it actually is) malignant, traitorous propaganda. Alas! Ritter has become the replacement for Baghdad Bob; you know, that clown featured on news channels for his Â“all is love and onenessÂ” remarks when all Â“Western hellÂ” was breaking lose (now, come on, you lefties had to laugh at that character). His believability ratings were off the chart: Â“That wasnÂ’t Saddam you guys captured, it was Santa Claus!Â”

Howard Dean's Big Fat Mouth!

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:47:05 -0500

The DNC's Chairman, Howard Dean, reflects a deep-seated disdain for "White Christianity's" apparent takeover of Republican politics. Babylon's "house divided"--where Greeks deride Romans--is endless. Rest assured, The Empire will predictably prevail.

Check out the high drama dynamic being played out before the whole world...

In Search If The Last Days Church

Dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Mon, 4 Jul 2005 13:18:15 -0500

The purpose of this book is to get you to think about something completely new. If we are living in the Â“last days,Â” is it business as usual as far as the church is concerned or does God want to do something more? LetÂ’s forget for a moment everything we know, all of our opinions and predilections, and ask ourselves, does God want to do something different in the end times? Let's take a fresh look at what the Bible says.
For the past two thousand years, Christians have been looking for the ideal Â“churchÂ”. Culture, preference and history have resulted in many different expressions of the church Â– some genuine and some such horrid mixtures as to hardly be recognizable as Â“Christian.Â” Today, debate flourishes as to the best form, organization, programming, way of meeting, etc.

Some like the big formal church, with pomp and circumstance, and a rich history in ritual. Some like the old fashioned hymns and others the choruses or even the Â“hard rockÂ” of the latest generation. Churches come in all kinds of shapes and sizes from huge cathedrals, to mega-church sprawling compounds, to cute little country churches with steeples, to simple meetings in homes. Church organizations vary from complex hierarchies of Popes, priests, bishops, pastors, senior pastors, youth pastors and so on, to autonomous churches, to little groups with no noticeable organization. Services range from beautiful extravaganzas with eloquent music and messages to simple gatherings in homes.

Theologians down through the centuries have argued for different forms of worship, organization or church government. Every generation seeks to mold the church to their culture and style. Some purists diligently seek the Scriptures to find out what the pattern was for the Â“early churchÂ” and seek to emulate it.

Today in America, once a person becomes a Christian, they either stay in the church they were saved in or they go on a search for the Â“churchÂ” that meets their concept, temperament and needs. Some like strong leadership while others prefer a more democratic/congregational approach. Some look for specific programs, interest groups or youth programs. Some like to be entertained while others like to participate. Some churches have two services Â– one for the younger tastes and another for the old fogies.

Central city churches tend to age while suburban churches flourish. Some Christians stay in a church until they die. Others tend to float from one church to the next, seeking many things: a pastor with a better message, programs for their family needs, love, community, friends, belonging. Some churches never seem to grow but others take off and grow and grow. Seminaries and Christian research companies such as the Barna Group study the different types of organizations to try and find out why some grow and others stagnate.

The question isnÂ’t whether the institutional church is good, bad or indifferent. The question isnÂ’t whether there are real brothers and sisters in churches today. Of course there are. Scriptures tell us that there are overcomers in all seven of the churches in Revelation (which more or less encompasses all of them Â– more on this later). More than likely, you are in one of those seven churches. The question is, will you be able to stay there in the face of a greater falling away and apostasy? Should you be doing something today to be ready for what may happen in the near future?
My prayer is that you will enter into a time of fresh discovery with the Lord in terms of His plan for your life and that this will help you along that road. At least half the Bible deals with Â“end timesÂ” prophesy which culminates in the Book of Revelation which was written to the church. Seven times in Revelation 2 and 3, we hear the same admonition:

How Can We Know If These Are The End Times?

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 16:42:13 -0500

This is a question every generation asks itself. Even early Christians thought they were in the end times and 2,000 years later things keep moving on. Why didn't God just get it over with back then? People get tired of "chicken littles" running around telling us the sky is falling, the world is going to end, but it doesnÂ’t. We're still here. Every saint from the beginning anticipated His coming, but He hasnÂ’t come, so why care? He'll come when He comes. What's it to me? I just keep putting one foot in front of another. The last thing I want to be is some "kook" standing on a street corner predicting the end of the world only to see the date come and go. Isn't this just much "to do" about nothing? Besides, if I rapture at the beginning of the "end", the whole question is irrelevant! I'm outta here. Glory!

Sound familiar? I've certainly thought all of those things. How about you? Am I beating a dead horse? Well I don't think so. What if these really are the end times? Is there any way to know for sure? What if there is no easy escape by "rapture"? And if not, what does it mean to me?

When A Good Man Becomes A "God-Man"

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 18:54:56 -0500

The ecumenism of Rome is now at full tilt with the election of Cardinal Ratzinger as Pope Benedict XVI. Religious under girding of the political Beast of Revelation 13 provides righteous covering for Antichrists's exploits. Rome's pomp and circumstance provides compelling evidence that the False Prophet's arrival upon earth's final week is well prepared!

The Rapture Question

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 17:16:43 -0500

The relevance of prophecy to Christians in these days rests on their view of the rapture. Whether consciously or not, a person who believes they will rapture before the Tribulation, will probably not be that concerned with prophecy or events that are going to take place during the Tribulation. I donÂ’t mean to paint with a broad brush and say that ALL Christians will feel this way, but certainly most will. The fact that a fourth to a half of the Bible deals with end times prophecy doesnÂ’t seem to mean much in churches today where it is highly unlikely you will hear a message on the subject. Action follows belief and vice versa. If you strongly believe you will be gone, you are not likely to be concerned or do anything about it.

The teaching of the pre-tribulation rapture has the Lord coming for the church in a Â“secretÂ” rapture prior to the tribulation and then coming with the saints at the end of the tribulation where they meet up with new saints that have been saved and martyred. The arguments for this position are not based on the clear teaching of the Word but supposition or what the scripture calls Â“private interpretationÂ”. IÂ’m not going to go into great detail. There are many excellent works on the subject by authors such as Dave MacPherson, Marvin Rosenthal, Robert Van Kampen and others that deal with all of the arguments pro and con for those who want to study the issue in detail.

Chronology Of The Book Of Revelation

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 17:23:35 -0500

The Book of Revelation appears to be a daunting book because it is full of imagery and seems to bounce all over time, but like an old friend, once you get to know it, it really isnÂ’t that bad. Follow the parallels. Follow the themes. Previously, we put to rest the issue of the rapture. It is important to understand the order of events Â– what occurs and when. Revelation is not that hard to understand if you grasp the main theme Â– the testimony of Jesus Christ which is seen in his two peoples, the two witnesses: Israel and the church. Timing is important and this reinforces the timing of the rapture...

The Church In Tribulation - Why?

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 17:25:23 -0500

In the past two segments we have discussed the rapture and the chronology of Revelation and other accounts of the end times, showing the chronology of events. We have discussed the importance of the two witnesses. We have clearly shown that although the church will be persecuted, it will not suffer any judgment or wrath of God. This is an extremely important distinction for those with a pre-trib rapture position. The time line is clear. But the question remains, why is this important to God? Why put us through it? What does it accomplish?

Earthquakes Of Biblical Proportion

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 17:27:34 -0500

The Â“Mega TsunamiÂ” which struck the Indian Ocean region on December 26, 2004, wrought by a 9.0 Â“Great EarthquakeÂ” on the Richter Magnitude Scale, released an awful devastation unparalleled in modern historyÂ—now approaching 150,000 dead with prospects of deadly disease which could double fatalities, while leaving 5 million homeless! Sri Lanka alone is now recording dead and missing at over 70,000! Keep in mind that the Richter scale is a ten-fold amplitude increase in the earthquake vibrations and results in a hundred-fold increase in energy released (e.g., a 4.5 quake normally is equivalent to 100 tons of TNT energy release; whereas a 5.5 quake would release 10 kilotons of energy of what the 4.5 quake released, etc.). The world's greatest-ever relief effort is underway!

One hundred miles west of the northern tip of Indonesia's Sumatra Island, and some six miles beneath the oceans bottom, the quake released its fury and subsequent tsunami waves.

The "Body Life"

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 17:29:31 -0500

I titled this the Â“Body LifeÂ” to contrast it to the traditional church or home meeting. Christians get fixated on meetings Â– the where, when and how. They can see how the home meeting can be intimate and participatory but canÂ’t imagine how it would work in a larger meeting.
I would not have believed it if I hadnÂ’t experienced it for a number of years Â– meetings with upwards of 200 or 300 people or more in a large hall that was totally unscripted because the Holy Spirit was in control. There was no Â“order of worshipÂ”. Anyone could begin by a prayer, a song, a testimony. Very often the Holy Spirit led us corporately in a single theme. Anyone was free to participate at any time. There was no chaos. There was order. The chairs were in a circle. There was no podium. There were elders but they were not visible or obvious. If something got off track, they would bring it back, but they were truly there to facilitate rather than dominate. The spirit and attitude everyone had was to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, to sense what to do when Â– whether to pick a song, read from the Bible, pray, praise, testify or teach. Most understood that they were there to glorify God and to share what the Lord had done in our lives that week. The meetings were fresh and often glorious.

The Immoral Minority - Scene 1

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 18:57:56 -0500

Just when you thought it couldnÂ’t get any worseÂ—IT DID! The infamous and disgusting antics of one, Paul Cain, of Â“Apostles and ProphetsÂ” fame (considered as the Â“founding fatherÂ” of this usurping phenomenon over the people of God) has been Â“caughtÂ” in a homosexual affair and has NOT responded to any entreaty to do otherwise. Local brethren attempted (so we read) to dissuade Bro. Cain to repent of his behavior, but the Â“prophetÂ” deferredÂ—alas! HOW ARE THE MIGHTY FALLEN. No biggieÂ—the Local brethren have purchased Jim BakkerÂ’s old Heritage USAÂ—you know, the old Christian Disneyland where brother Swaggart, and then brother Jerry Falwell, contested over until Falwell slid down a water slide on a dare (along with his three-piece suit, no less)Â—so excited was he that the money came in!

The Immoral Minority - Scene 2

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:02:07 -0500

IÂ’ll never forget when the Rev. Jerry Falwell and his patriotic team of singers and organizers stepped onto the steps of the Salem, Oregon capitol, cir. 1980. I had just moved up to Coos Bay, Oregon. Being an evangelical, I was mystified how a hard-shell Baptist, like FalwellÂ—and coming from a religious tradition that was Â“separatistÂ” and apolitical (so I thought)Â—could get so politically involved in this Moral Majority cause (1979-1987).

Patriotic songs were sung, and, of course, hecklers were in abundance decrying FalwellÂ’s view of America and moralityÂ—but he sure drew the media and the crowds to his nationwide tour of State Capitols. I followed FalwellÂ’s entourage to the Portland, Oregon International Airport Holiday Inn for a Â“strategy sessionÂ” Â– I really wanted to know what made this guy tick. The guest room was packed with local-area proponents, as well as roving team members...

Sheer Theological Nonsense!

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:03:37 -0500

What George Davis and Michael Clark are saying in their piece, HOW ARE THE MIGHTY FALLEN (the tribnet highlights the article) strikes at the core of todayÂ’s COMMERCIAL APOSTASY afflicting the Church. Moreover, drunk with the wine of wealthÂ—they (the false prophets and teachers overwhelming the Church) now seek political power which replaces the empowering of the Holy Spirit.

Beneath the crust of today's Â“religious commercialismÂ” lies a religious arrogance and pride, coupled with spiritual superiority, that has become the bane of the Church. This is NOT newsÂ—for the Â“Scribes and PhariseesÂ” in JesusÂ’ time were plagued by this pathology.

They specialized in straining at gnats and swallowing camels (Matthew 23:24), while all the time heaping religious contempt upon the suffering masses. Their specialty, amidst their horrific hypocrisies and superlative distortions of the very Word of God to which they boasted they so rigorously adhered, belied their true condition: Â“Inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence . . . . Inside you are full of dead menÂ’s bones and all uncleanness . . . . Inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness (Matthew 23:25b, 27b, 28b).

Stunned!

Barbara@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:05:43 -0500

Having spent my whole life in the liberal side of the U.S. Christian Church, I am still trying to understand the conservative side. When I first started reading about the conservative/fundamental/evangelical churches and their leaders and members the only names I readily recognized were Oral Roberts and Pat Robertson. I didnÂ’t even know people like Kenneth Copeland, Benny Hinn, Kenneth Hagin, Paul and Jan Crouch, Paula White, Jesse Deplantis, T.D. Jakes, Joyce Meyers, and Marilyn Hickey even existed. Now that I know who they are and what they are preaching I praise the Lord that I have not been influenced by them.

The past couple of months I have been tuning into the Trinity Broadcast Network (TBN). This has been an eye-opening, unsettling experience. Watching Benny Hinn sing while he Â“healsÂ” people, listening to Jan Crouch talk about God healing her cancer while she shakes her pink bouffant wig, watching Kenneth Copeland, Benny Hinn, Kenneth Hagin, Paul and Jan Crouch, Paula White, Jesse Deplantis, T.D. Jakes, Joyce Meyers, and Marilyn Hickey joke his way through his preaching, hearing Oral Roberts tell Kenneth Copeland about his recent Â“visionÂ” from God and then the two of them telling the viewers they had better vote for Bush or we are all doomed was entertaining is a sordid kind of way. Needless to say, I shook my head a lot and every so often I caught myself staring with my mouth hanging open.

Johann Tetzel - "Scaring The Hell Out Of Christians"

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:08:46 -0500

Â“It happened in 1517 that a Dominican monk named Johann Tetzel, a braggart, caused a great stir. Maximilian once sentenced him to drowning in the River Inn - presumably because of his great virtue - but Duke Frederick rescued him in Innsbruck from the punishment of being drowned. Duke Frederick reminded him of this incident when he began to denounce us Wittenbergers. Actually, he admitted it quite openly. This same Tetzel now began to peddle indulgences. With might and main he sold grace for money as dearly or a cheaply as he could. At the time I was preacher here in the cloister and was filled as a new doctor with an ardent love for the scriptures.

Â“He had grace and power from the Pope to offer forgiveness even if someone had slept with the Holy Virgin Mother of God, as long as a contribution would be put into the coffer...

Apostasy Comes First

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:12:01 -0500

This five-part series uncovers the inherent deceit within the Â“Great Falling Away from the FaithÂ” prophesied in Scripture to take place in the Â“latter times.Â” It is noteworthy to observe that this affliction not only insinuated itself upon ancient IsraelÂ—but its most profound impact occurs within the Church; so much so, that the very Elect are plagued by its deception...

Make Not My Father's House A House Of Merchandise!

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:14:23 -0500

Just when you thought that the depths of Â“evangelical ministries and churchesÂ” seeking after filthy lucre and the Â“mammon of unrighteousnessÂ” could not get any more ostentatiousÂ—weÂ’re hit with the recent LA Times articles on the financial excesses of the Trinity Broadcasting NetworkÂ—the world's largest evangelical programming network...

3D Deception!

Barbara@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:17:47 -0500

The truth that the U.S. Christian Church, especially the conservative, evangelical branch, has melded itself with political and commercial Babylon is discussed throughout this website. This melding is so evident as I read the continuous reports of the fighting and the dying in Iraq. The part of the Christian Church that supports the Bush Administration's war of aggression in Iraq is practicing what could and should be considered the ultimate form of greed spawned from unfaithful fear. As these evangelicals continue to wed themselves ever more intimately with the political and commercial powers, they are readily sacrificing their sons and daughters and the children of others in return for what they believe to be support by the Bush regime for their current social and political agenda. These Christians are against abortion but support the killing of over 100,000 innocent Iraqi citizens, many whom are defenseless children, for totally unsubstantiated reasons. They are for stronger families, but willingly send the best of our families, our sons and daughters, to be slaughtered, maimed and poisoned in Iraq and Afghanistan. They want prayer in the schools and the Ten Commandments to hang in public buildings, but they have forgotten that we are to forgive our debtors (Matt. 6:12), to love our enemies (Matt. 5:44-45) and that the sixth commandment really does mean, Â“Thou shall not killÂ”...

Scary Statistics!

Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:20:38 -0500

This is a compilation of the scariest, most embarrassing, most shocking statistics and information about the Church and its affairs. Big Government. Big Business. Big Oil. Big Tobacco. BIG CHURCH. The Church has become part of the problem. We're not living like Christ. Of course they think we're hypocrites - because we ARE! Forgive us, God.

Shrine Of Micah

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:24:02 -0500

The American Mega Church is NOT a new phenomenon . . . its elaborate marketing techniques, purposefully mirrored (or "driven" ... whichever you prefer) after the American corporate model bespeaks of Israel's original quantum leap into apostasy when Micah implemented similar techniques involving money, fame, worldly marketing strategies and a whole host of pop mechanisms which dwarfed the rather shabby appeal of the "Tent of Meeting" pitched nearby in Ephraim. You'll be shocked to discover the Tribe of Dan's downfall has everything to do with the "Mega Church" of yesteryear!

Communicating The Message

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:27:58 -0500

A Trip to Yamika - A Reality Check!

A lesson in sticking to the basics Â– God's Word. Human wisdom and words are no match for what God can accomplish when his Word is shared...

On Judging Others

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:49:45 -0500

In order to recognize apostasy and deception, you need to have your spiritual senses heightened by the Holy Spirit's discernment. It is easy for a ministry to manipulate people by making them feel guilty and by building the ministry up as if they were sacrificial spiritual giants, the only one's seeing the light and the only one's willing to pay the price. It is also common for some to disparage other ministries in order to build up their own. To what extent are we to judge?

A ministry based on the Word of God is one thing. A ministry based on tearing others down, name calling and guilt trips is another. Ministries should not call people names but hold what they say and do up to the Â“truthÂ”. We are encouraged to evaluate the things brothers and sisters say publicly Â– looking at their actions and public statements rather than their person. As Jay Adams said...

The United States Of Europe Is A Joke!

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:56:00 -0500

The anticipated rejection by the French of the much vaunted United States of Europe, and its Constitution (the vote in France was 45% for and 55% against), conclusively demonstrates, once again, European political and economic ineptitude compared to that of the United States of AmericaÂ—the Dutch are soon to follow the French (Notwithstanding, the toilet (a French word) was invented by a Brit by the name of Thomas Crapper not by a Frenchman.)

Imagine, the extremity of European cultural diversity, language, religion, and history have all come full circle to highlight centuries of particularism, political fratricide, and religious intoleranceÂ—none of which could convince the European mindset that Â“unity with varietyÂ” would lead to a multi polar world in which Europe would function as the political/economic counterweight to the unipolar world of the United States of America.

The Green Cross

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 19:59:06 -0500

We swerved in and out of the two-lane streets of the Presidio next to San Francisco Bay. Our little group of Russian tourists had no idea where I was taking themÂ—they simply thought we were heading for an underside view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Little did they realize they would shortly stand aghast at the small two-story gambrel cottage where the International Green Cross headquarters, headed by the deposed President Mikhail Gorbachev, stood in obscure testimony to the once mighty colossus of the Soviet Union.

I was amused. More than reluctantly these Russian coal miners, now in 1994, were coaxed by me to get out of our large van and literally enter into this unbelievable sightÂ—a military facility donated by the US to Mikhail GorbachevÂ’s fledgling, altruistic ideal at earthly redemption: The International Green Cross...

Triumphal Christianity

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 20:00:17 -0500

Well, after the billions spent on this yearÂ’s American elections and the alleged charges and counter charges by the major parties (and the also-rans), and the Â“this is the most crucial year everÂ”Â—as the pall of Islamic terrorism saturates the rhetoric of the candidatesÂ—you, if youÂ’re a Christian, may wonder just what on earth is going on with God's Â“heavenly peopleÂ” in this quadrennial quagmire?

Wait a minute: You say that we as believers have an Â“obligationÂ” to vote for our representative-style government and to elect people, who at least hold to Â“moral scruplesÂ”Â— after all, didnÂ’t Christians play a primary role in the formation of this experiment? Our first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, John Jay, once enshrined the concept that Â“a Christian nationÂ” should Â“select and prefer Christians for their rulersÂ” (and thatÂ’s for starters).

Friend, let me, as they say, cut to the quick here: If you want to know what the inheritors of JayÂ’s Â“benign commentsÂ” of this Â“Christian StateÂ” concept are thinking today, well, let me disabuse you of the thought that somehow he and his followers have folded their tents and have stolen away into the secular night of the modern era!

Prophecy And The Election

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 20:13:38 -0500

This is the last chance to opine on the election so here goes. Do I care who wins? Not really. I believe God will put whoever he wants into office for His own reasons. It is so close, whether on a national basis (49/49) or state by state, especially the battleground states. So what do I think will happen and why? Please donÂ’t take this as a prophecy, because stones hurt real bad.

The results will be interesting. What we have right now is a marriage between the Republican Party and the so-called Â“religious rightÂ”. Evangelicals are being motivated to vote for Bush like never before. The nation has never been more polarized. When CNN asked their viewers the other day on Lou Dobbs, if the opposition candidate won, would they support them, 87% said Â“no.Â” For the most part Â“ChristiansÂ” believe that Bush is God's man for the hour Â– both to return the nation to a solid moral base and to rid the world of evil. IÂ’m not taking sides. Now let's look at prophecy and what it may say about the issue.

To Vote Or Not To Vote

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 20:17:02 -0500

To vote or not to vote, that is the question. Many Christians are caught in a quagmire. If they vote, they are voting against the worse of two evils. There isnÂ’t much choice. If they donÂ’t vote, they feel they are abdicating responsibility as Christians to shine the light in their little corner of the world. So what do we do about voting? This is one of those questions that is open to debate, so rather than take a side, let's discuss the issue. As usual, at the end, I will tell you what I think, for what itÂ’s worth...

Deception And Guilt

dene@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 20:19:05 -0500

Surely a great deception is spreading across the land and it will get much worse. Christians looked at what is happening Â– abortion, gay marriage, secularism in schools and crime in neighborhoods, and overwhelming voted for values. Can you blame them? What are they supposed to do? Vote FOR abortion, gay marriage and secularism?

There are a sophisticated few who understand the nuances of the election and what is really behind the current administration. They can understand the hypocrisy, the secret favoritism for business and the elites against the average America, the fact that globalism permanently hurts jobs at home, the debts one day have to be paid and so forth. Many average Americans even understood they were voting against their own economic interests in supporting the administration, but the issue of moral values trumped all of the other issues.

Michael Moore's "Jesus Land" and The Moral Majority.

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 20:21:39 -0500

There is nothing new in this world. We have the same things going on now as in JesusÂ’ day Â– liberal Sadducees vs. moralist, fundamentalist Pharisees and the disenfranchised masses vs. the elites of their day. See a map of Michael Moore's Jesus Land...

Democratic Globalism

Doug@the-tribulation-network.com — Fri, 24 Jun 2005 20:25:35 -0500

The United States of America is no longer hiding her clawsÂ—no rival or United Nations or allied opinion can resist this colossus that struts her stuff across the planet. The economic disintegration, and political demise of the former Soviet Union, established the sole super power upon the globe in 1991. This hegemonic expression Â“found herselfÂ” the inheritor of all that exemplifies Western Civilization...

Political Power

Fri, 24 Jun 2005 20:27:59 -0500

Monday, February 8, 1988 Â– I found my eyes glued to the television-set. I was transfixed!! Almost mesmerized!! Excited, but troubled as wellÂ—strangely apprehensive!! By early evening it had become clear to the entire American press-corps that Pat Robertson had managed to contrive a major political upset in the Iowa caucusesÂ—scoring a second place finish behind Senator Bob Dole and forcing George Bush, the sitting Vice President, to settle for an embarrassing third. This is an insightful commentary of the rise of the Â“religious right.Â”...