HIS DWELLING PLACE

A Christian is a man or woman who has been begotten by God to a new kind of life. When someone is begotten of God, there comes into his life a change so radical that the only thing that can be said is that life has begun all over again for him. In His dwelling place, there's regeneration. This is called the new birth, and it happens by the will and by the purpose of God (John 1:13). It is not something that a man achieves by his physical birth. This is the work of the Holy Spirit of God.

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THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION

“When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains” (Matthew 24:15-16). Here, Jesus spoke of a coming “abomination of desolation” in the Olivet Discourse as He referenced a future event Jesus was referring to a prophecy originally given to the prophet Daniel: “And from the time that the daily sacrifice is taken away, and the abomination of desolation is set up, there shall be one thousand two hundred and ninety days” (Daniel 12:11; Read Daniel 9:27). The concept of the "abomination of desolation" is indeed a significant and biblical prophecy in the Bible, primarily in the book of Daniel and mentioned by Jesus in the New Testament. It carries both historical and future implications, and its interpretation can vary among theologians and scholars, but the word of God is true an abided for ever. Here is an overview of its key aspects of this prophecy:

1. Daniel's Prophecy (Daniel 12:11; Daniel 9:27): In the book of Daniel, specifically in Daniel 12:11, there is a reference to the "abomination that causes desolation." This prophecy has historical fulfillments, including events involving the Seleucid ruler Antiochus IV Epiphanes during the intertestamental period. Antiochus defiled the Jewish temple and prohibited Jewish religious practices.

2. Jesus' Reference & future fulfillment (Matthew 24:15): Jesus refers to Daniel's prophecy in the New Testament in Matthew 24:15, where He speaks of a future fulfillment of the "abomination of desolation." This reveals that while there were historical events related to this prophecy, there is also a future aspect that is yet to occur. Many interpretations of the "abomination of desolation" focus on a future fulfillment associated with the end times. This often involves the idea that an Antichrist figure will set up an idol or engage in a blasphemous act in a holy place (possibly a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem) and demand worship. "And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH Revelation 17:4-5" (Please read Revelation17:16-17).

3. Desolation and Fleeing: According to the prophecies, the abomination of desolation will trigger a period of great distress, and people in Judea are advised to flee to the mountains for safety. This event is seen as a significant sign of the end times and the Second Coming of Christ. Read Matthew 24:16-21; Rev 12:14.

4. Variations in Interpretation: The interpretation of the "abomination of desolation" can vary among different Christian denominations and theological traditions. Some see it as a literal event, while others view it symbolically, representing various forms of spiritual idolatry, persecution, and wickedness.

While historical events, such as those involving Antiochus Epiphanes and the Roman occupation of Jerusalem, may have partial fulfillments, there is a widely held biblical prophecy that there will be a future, ultimate fulfillment associated with the end times and the coming of an Antichrist figure. Interpretations of the specifics of this event may vary, but it remains a significant aspect of eschatological discussions in Christian faith.

The explanation provides a detailed interpretation of the prophetic elements related to the "abomination of desolation" as described in the book of Daniel and mentioned by Jesus in the New Testament. It highlights several key points:

A. Treaty with Israel: There will be a future covenant or treaty made with the people of Israel, often interpreted as a significant future event.

B. Duration of the Treaty: The treaty's duration is understood to be a period of seven years, commonly associated with the prophetic Daniel "week" in biblical terms.

C. Midway Event: In the middle of this seven-year period, the ruler will take actions that disrupt Jewish religious practices, specifically ending the sacrifices and offerings in the temple.

D. Desecration of the Temple: The ruler will commit an act of desecration within the temple, often involving a sacrilegious object or act.

E. Timing of Judgment: The desecration of the temple will continue for a specified period, 1,290 days (approximately 3½ years and 1 month), until the judgment of God is executed. This is the Great Tribulation that depicted as a period of unprecedented suffering and turmoil, as indicated in Matthew 24:21. It is said to last for a period of three and a half years and is considered the latter half of a seven-year tribulation period. It is often seen as means to bring suffering to Israel, leading them to recognize their need for the Messiah (Jesus Christ) whom they have historically rejected. This suffering is believed to prepare Israel for their ultimate reconciliation with the Messiah. Therefore, the interpretation aligns with the idea that the "abomination of desolation" represents a significant and offensive act that defiles a holy place, causing desolation and leading to divine judgment. The act of "abomination" is detested or loathed by God due to its offensiveness to His holiness. it is seen as an act or object that goes against God's sacred nature and triggers His judgment. However, all believers who are raptured would not go through the great tribulation but experience eternal salvation and join in a joyful celebration, often referred to as the "marriage supper in heaven with Christ," as described in Revelation 19:6-9.

As a result, it serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance, prayer, and readiness for the unfolding of these events as part of the broader eschatological narrative in Christian faith. This is a message of encouragement and caution for believers because the time is short. Here are some key points for Christians to take note:

1. Watchfulness and Prayer: Believers are encouraged to remain vigilant and in a state of constant prayer, staying spiritually awake and aware of the signs of the times (Matthew 26:41; 1 Thessalonians 5:17).

2. The Imminent Rapture: The message highlights the imminent catching away of the saints popularly known as the rapture of the saints, a significant event in Christian eschatology where believers are said to be caught up to be with the Lord in the air. The bible reference in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, fully explained how the rapture looks like. It describes the how the true believers in Christ (the brides) will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air, an event that is anticipated to precede the Great Tribulation. Hence, be prepared!

3. Avoiding Earthly Entanglements: Believers are cautioned against becoming too entangled or preoccupied with the affairs of this world. Earthly concerns, distractions, and sinful behaviors are seen as potential hindrances to spiritual readiness (1John 2:15-17).

4. Spiritual Preparation: The message underscores the importance of spiritual purity and living a blameless life. This includes turning away from sin, seeking forgiveness through Jesus Christ, and striving for holiness (Matthew 24:42; Hebrews 12:14).

5. The Analogy of the Bride: Believers are encouraged to prepare for the rapture like a bride getting ready for her bridegroom. This analogy signifies a state of readiness, purity, and anticipation (Revelation 19:7).

Above all, believers in Christ are encouraged to continue and maintain their faith, remain vigilant in their spiritual walk, and be prepared for the anticipated return of Christ and the rapture event. They are to prioritize more on spiritual matters over worldly concerns and to live a life that is pleasing to God in anticipation of that glorious event. For those who are yet to surrender their lives to Jesus Christ by repenting of their sins through confession and forsake them are encouraged to do so now because tomorrow may be too late. Now is the day of salvation!

SILENCE IN A COMPROMISING CHURCH

"I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth" - Revelation 2:13-16 (KJV).

The compromising, silent church often lacks boldness; In disguise of being sanctified, they could not rise up to challenge the evil trends perpetrated by so called worker or leader because of privilege they could probably lose through him. Instead, they pretended and choose to remain in an amen corner of prayers than to “withstood him to the face (like Paul in Galatians 2:14) because he was to be blamed”. it's easier to be passive to avoid being persecuted, intimidated, and hated for righteousness’ sake. But it's not healthy, wise, or God-honoring in the the church of living God. Jesus lovingly challenges the silent compromisers in this church. The free choice of evil practices to thrive, manipulations, deceptions, and perverted justice fueled by compromise and liberalism, can entice followers to leave God's standard of Christianity by disobeying His word. Hence, little compromises lead to the big problems of disunity and love that could hinder the move of God’s Spirit in the Church. “ And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful” (Mark 4:19).

JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH

Justification is the act of God’s grace through which one receives forgiveness and remission of sins and is counted righteous before God through faith in the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. Having thus been cleared of every guilt on sin, the regenerated stands before God as though he had never sinned. Now,he’s totally forgiven and the sins forgotten. God looks at the redeemed not on the basis of any personal merit but in the light of what Christ has accomplished for mankind by his substitutionary death on the cross of Calvary."Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law?of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith” (Romans 3:24-30; Please read Romans 4:6-16).

To actualize the benefits of salvation in Christ Jesus, the sinful man should acknowledge his helplessness and hopelessness in this life, and his desperate need of Savior. As he is incapable to provide solution to his problem of sinful nature or change his eternal destiny of damnation (Isaiah 59:8), the need for justification becomes crystal clear. To meet the price of divine justice, due price needed to be paid. Man lacked both the capacity and purity to afford this. It therefore required the sacrifice of the spotless Lamb of God, unstained and without blemish in Himself to pay the necessary ransom with His blood for the expiation of man’s sins. It’s instructive to note that the nature of sins is not such that man could handle on his own or by merit of his good works (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Just as water baptism cannot justify the Gentiles so also is circumcision cannot justify the Jew nor water baptism the Gentiles. And by the standards of God’s righteousness and holiness, full church membership or confirmation does not suffice to justify any one. The faith in the atoning work of Jesus Christ on the Cross of Calvary can assure a repentant soul the full justification through faith by the grace of Jesus.Before justification, sinner had works of the flesh of different category as stated in (Galatians 5:19-21) but as a new creature, he has divine ability to manifest the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Therefore, in the lifestyle, conduct, disposition and speech, the redeemed by Christ’s Blood are more like Him, having been quickened by the Spirit of the living God.

The misleading concept of justification by works, as an article’s of man’s religion, is opposed to justification by faith because it denied the grace of God and dishonors the blood of Jesus Christ. The reference in the General Epistle of (James 2:14-26) may the interpreted amiss by cursory reader of the Scriptures, where it asked. “But wilt thou know o vain man, that faith without work is dead? The basic point being stressed by the Epistle of James is that works as referred to in the scenario are a compliment of justification by faith. Whereas, Paul the Apostle in his Epistle to Romans, chapter four is essentially doctrinal, and the practical is based upon the doctrine, that of James is essential practical, the doctrinal element being purely incidental. Hence, a man is justified by faith without works, in another sense, we see “how by works a man is justified, and not by faith only”. This explained the justification by faith before God, and justification by works before men. Properly understood, none really is mutually exclusive.

WALKING DAILY WITH CHRIST

“As he spake these words, many believed on him. Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed” - John 8:30-36 (KJV).

The new birth experience is the beginning of life-long adventure of walking with Christ. But, what does it mean to walk with Christ? You took the first step toward walking with Christ when you decided to repent of your sins and commit your life to the Lord, Jesus Christ. This step, although vital, is not the only step you are supposed to take.

To be a disciple of Jesus Christ, you must walk with him consistently. One of the essentials things of walking with Christ is reading God’s word, the Bible. The path of life is littered with temptations. The safest way of walking and not stumbling at any of the temptations is to read and keep the word of God. The holy word of God as a guiding light is imperative to those walking with Christ daily. It dictates the conduct and life-style of the believer and it has the final say on all matter that concerns the believer.

Another essential in walking with Christ is prayer. Communication is essentials for a growing relationship. When you pray you are communicating with God. The Christian life is a new experience to everyone that is newly converted. As a Christian, it’s essential to maintain a life of open communication with God as a habit. Not only does the person walking with Christ has the privilege of telling God about whatever bothers him, he also has the added advantage of having his need met. Prayer, the act of communicating with God, is also the greatest weapon through which the devil and his cohorts are defeated. Prayer is simple. It is casting your care upon God (1 Peter 5:7), asking God, the father, whatever you need (John 15:16) in the name of Jesus (John 14:13).

The most essential in walking with Christ that many overlook today is obedience: This what God demand from us and He places a high premium on it. A number of people who profess faith in Christ faltered when it comes to obedience. This is because they see Jesus as Savior but fail to know and accept Him as Lord. The Bible says “Jesus is Lord”. It is important to know that the true wisdom consists in building our spiritual house on the Rock, Jesus Christ our Lord. This singular act will make our Christian faith to become strong and firm in the fundamental principles of victorious Christian living. Our Christian life should always obey the Lord when things are convenient or when things go contrary to the way of our expectations. Jesus is Lord forever! He demands absolute obedience for all believers who are walking with Him. Our motives, tempers and lives should always conform to His Word, leaning on nothing but His grace and enabling power. Hence, walking with Christ is the most glorious experience in life that can ever happen to a Christian.

There are new discoveries for us each day in our daily walk with Christ. It ushers us into deeper knowledge, greater experiences and enjoyment of God’s blessings. With Christ as Captain of our salvation in our journey, He’s ever faithful to grant us victory, success, happiness and fulfillment here on earth and a blissful eternity hereafter. “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and has been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them” (2 Timothy 3:14).

OPEN DOOR OF SALVATION

Man was created in God’s image and was meant to have dominion and enjoy abundant of life, man lost the privilege because of sin.Sins like a cancer separate man from God. It also hinder fellowship and enjoyment derive from the love of God. From time immemorial, man has adopted many efforts in order to be at peace with God. But all human made efforts have not helped man. Sin is a great barrier which separates man from God. And with this barrier, the problem of man will remain. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God...for wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 3:23; 6:23).

What is the way out of man's problem? Is there a way out today? Yes, God knew that we would not be able to find a way out through our own efforts. Therefore, He provided the solution for us through Jesus, His only begotten Son. His love for the depraved man caused Him to draw the plan of salvation. He allowed His Son, Jesus Christ, to suffer and died for our sins. Through the suffering and sacrifice of His Son, we can pass from death to possess the gift of life. God loves us and "...commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). And "Jesus saith unto him,I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me" (John 14:6). Man has the plan to play in other to benefit from God's love. You cannot benefit unless you respond personally.

Salvation is God's free gift but it’s not cheap. Jesus paid for it with His own life. Hence, you need to receive this gift before you can enjoy it. Here is the right step to receive the free gift of God : "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved....But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons (daughters inclusive) of God, even to them that believe on his name" (Romans 10:9; John 1:12).

Are you ready to respond? Are you willing to receive God's free gift of God right now? Will you decide to receive Christ now? If so, admit that you are a sinner now, be willing to repent now, Believe that Jesus died for your sins, then go to God in prayers, repent and invite Jesus into your life. Please pray this prayer: Almighty God, I thank you because you love me. When I was lost in sin, you sent your Son Jesus Christ to die for me on the cross of Calvary. I believe that the blood of Jesus shed wash away my sins and pardon me. Right now, I repent of all my sins and ask for forgiveness. Lord Jesus, come into my heart at this moment. And I accept you as my Lord and personal Savior. Thank you for coming into my heart to set me free.In Jesus mighty name I have prayed, Amen! After taking all these steps, it is important to: Read the word of God every day (Psalm 119:9, 11).

You need to spend some time in prayer every day (Philippians 4:6). It is imperative to fellowship with other believers of precious faith in the church that could care for your spiritual well being continually (Hebrews 10:25). Finally, yield your life to God, witness for Christ daily and bring others to Him (Mark 1:17). God bless.

There are many problems in the world today most especially in this end time. Although peace, joy, happiness, and love are desired by many, only very few know what the true freedom and abundant life means. The Word of God declared that, God loves you and me, and He wants us to have abundant life.Therefore, He has a wonderful plan for you in particular if you give Him a chance to do so, as He won't force you to do anything out of your own will. God love you because everything about His nature is love. There are many today that are not enjoying the love of God. Are you one of them? Here is the reason:"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). Man was created in God’s image and was meant to have dominion and enjoy abundant of life, man lost the privilege because of sin. Sins like a cancer separate man from God. It also hinder fellowship and enjoyment derive from the love of God. From time immemorial, man has adopted many efforts in order to be at peace with God. But all human made efforts have not helped man.Sin is a great barrier which separates man from God. And with this barrier, the problem of man will remain. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God...for wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 3:23; 6:23). What can we do to get man's problem solved? Is there a way out today? Yes, God knew that we would not be able to find a way out through our own efforts. Therefore, He provided the solution for us through His only begotten Son. His love for the depraved man caused Him to draw the plan of salvation. He allowed His Son, Jesus Christ, to suffer for us. Through the suffering and sacrifice of His Son, we can pass from death to life. God loves us and "...commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). And "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me" (John 14:6). Man has the plan to play in other to benefit from God's love. You cannot benefit unless you respond personally.Salvation is God's free gift but it’s not cheap. Jesus paid for it with His own life. Hence, you need to receive this gift before you can enjoy it. Here is the right step to receive the free gift of God : "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved....But as many as received him,to them gave he power to become the sons (daughters inclusive) of God, even to them that believe on his name" (Romans 10:9; John 1:12).

Please pray this prayer:

Almighty God, I thank you because you love me. When I was lost in sin, you sent your Son Jesus Christ to die for me on the cross of Calvary. I believe that the blood of Jesus shed wash away my sins and pardon me. Right now, I repent of all my sins and ask for forgiveness. Lord Jesus, come into my heart at this moment.And I accept you as my Lord and personal Savior. Thank you for coming into my heart to set me free. In Jesus mighty name I have prayed, Amen!

After taking all these steps, it is important to: Read the word of God every day (Psalm 119:9, 11). You need to spend some time in prayer every day (Philippians 4:6).It is imperative to fellowship with other believers of precious faith in the church that could care for your spiritual well being ontinually (Hebrews 10:25). Finally, yield your life to God, witness for Christ daily and bring others to Him (Mark 1:17). God bless as you obey.