Hang in There

29 05 2013

Hang in there catDo you remember this poster? I always liked it as an encouragement to press on and never give up. This week my mind keeps singing a little song we sang many times in our Clearwater, Florida church over the 24 years we were there.

“He who began a good work in you, He who began a good work in you, will be faithful to complete it. He’ll be faithful to complete it. He who started the work will be faithful to complete it in you!”

It comes directly from Philippians 1:6.

Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.

It reminds me that God chose me; He found me. He started it. I fought Him and He won! I have walked with Him now for 50 years and I say to you: “He is faithful, even when I am not.”

I am still incomplete. He has not finished with me yet; but He will. Yehovah God, my Father started something in me all those years ago and He will complete me. As Paul testified in the above verse, so do I. “I am confident of this very thing.”

Everyone knows that Jesus was a carpenter for at least 15 years or so, but did you know He was a finish carpenter? That is why I am confident. My Father has the best finish carpenter in the universe assigned to finish what Father started. No worries.

I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14 NLT

The Lord gave me this word today as an exhortation to you. No matter what happens in this earthly geo-political world, God is faithful. He loves us and will finish what He started.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


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Coming to a TEA Party Rally Near You

23 05 2013

IRS-Orl4HomelandSecurity-1024x462-620x279OK, so I am already on the Muslim list, the conservative list, and the Christian Zionist list. It is time to weigh in on the TEA Party. Look at the picture. Have you seen one of these vehicles yet? Chilling. I can see them at the airports or borders, but at TEA Party rallies? It would make sense to see them at OWS (Occupation Wall Street) protests where people are stabbed, raped and abused. But the TEA Party?

An article on TheBlaze.com shows six pictures of these vehicles last Tuesday at TEA Party rallies in four states: Missouri, Illinois, Florida and Indiana. One picture even shows armed DHS agents! Are the TEA parties even remotely connected in any way to the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center towers with passenger airplanes? Why is Homeland Security being used to “chill” dissent from grassroots Americans who disagree with government policies?

Here are two pertinent quotes from Thomas Jefferson:

When the people fear the government, there is tyranny. When the government fears the people, there is liberty.

My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government. Thomas Jefferson

Remember what T-E-A stands for: Taxed Enough Already. Nobody gets raped or murdered at these events. Why the show of force last Tuesday in at least four states? We have a serious problem here folks…. just sayin’. And, by the way, there is not an actual single organization called the TEA Party. It is a collection of grassroots groups and individuals. Some form an organization, but most do not. The news this week revealed that nearly 500 different conservative groups tried to get tax-exempt recognition but were stonewalled by the IRS for 27 months from before the 2010 mid-term election until after the 2012 presidential election. Coincidence?

And how bad was the stonewalling? Epic. Over the course of 27 months, not a single Tea Party type organization received tax exempt status. Breitbart.com

How should we then pray?

Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. 1 Timothy 2:2-4

He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does Yehovah require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


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Golden Calf Worship in 2013

8 05 2013

Golden calf 5-1-13One week ago today in Portland, Oregon, a group danced around a golden calf. It was May Day and it was an Occupy Wall Street demonstration.

Of course they did it for shock value, but it illustrates the direction some are heading in this country. Glen Beck featured this story on his radio program. This is not a joke and it is not a laughing matter. Anarchy is in vogue now in some circles, but remember that the ultimate anarchy is people refusing to worship the living God. Man will worship almost anything to avoid acknowledging Yehovah God.

Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, explained this phenomena.

Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. Romans 1:22-25

Pray for our nation and pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


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Sir Isaac Newton Prophecy

12 03 2013

About the time of the end,
a body of men will be raised up
who will turn their attention to the prophecies,
and insist upon their literal interpretation,
in the midst of much clamour and opposition.

Sir Isaac Newton, 1642-1727

This quote was sent as an encouragement to me, a confirmation of the direction of my Biblical interpretation. Sunday night I shared it with our Issachar Forum: A Prophetic Think Tank group in Wake Forest, NC. I told everyone there that it applies to them also. You who are regularly reading my Elisha Vision Commentary are also in the loop. We are all seeing the literal fulfillment of Bible prophecy on a daily basis.

A common practice among prophecy buffs is to try to “pigeon-hole” other teachers’ theological positions. I resist such forced identity, but can now give a definitive description of mine, even if slightly tongue in cheek.

I am an histori-futuri-literalist. I believe much prophecy has been fulfilled, much remains to be fulfilled soon, and I take the Bible literally. If you are not familiar with that category, it is because I made it up. It is sort of like a favorite quote from David Wilkerson when asked what he believed about the rapture and tribulation: I believe in the “you can’t lose” tribulation, because if you are with Jesus, you can’t lose!

I subscribe to the counsel: If you can possible take a Bible verse literally, do so. Earl Waterman, Dalton Mountain, New Hampshire.

So, as we continue on this exhilarating path to the Messiah’s arrival, we do so with open eyes, open minds, and open Bibles.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


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Good News from Israel

25 02 2013

thumbnail.aspxSince so many of my posts are about wars and rumors of wars, I thought it would be good to share some good news from Israel. God said He would bless and favor Israel and the nations would benefit. We are living in the day of Yehovah’s restoration of Israel and Jerusalem as “a praise in the whole earth.” This favor will cause the nations to see that God is with Israel.

​And it shall come to pass that just as you were a curse among the nations, ​​O house of Judah and house of Israel, so I will save you, and you shall be a blessing. ​​Do not fear, let your hands be strong. ​Yes, many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek Yehovah of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before Yehovah. Zechariah 8:13

​Thus says Yehovah of hosts: “In those days ten men from every language of the nations shall grasp the sleeve of a Jewish man, saying, “Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.” Zechariah 8:22-23

1. It now appears that Prime Minister Netanyahu will be able to form the coalition he needs to form the new government (after some serious doubts during the negotiations).

2. PM Netanyahu is already holding weekly Bible studies in his home and his office, but now the new Knesset has started weekly Bible sessions with 30 members attending the first along with multiple staff people joining. There is a new wind (of the Holy Spirit) blowing in Israel. Hallelujah!

3. Israel develops the next generation operating room, right out of Star Trek! Removes internal tumors and more without cutting the body. Must watch this video.

4. Today Israel successfully tested it Arrow 3 anti-missile missile. It is the most advanced system in the world.

5. God’s much repeated Biblical strategy appears once again in modern Israel. Israel’s enemies turn on one another.

Now when they began to sing and to praise, Yehovah set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated. For the people of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of Mount Seir to utterly kill and destroy them. And when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, they helped to destroy one another. So when Judah came to a place overlooking the wilderness, they looked toward the multitude; and there were their dead bodies, fallen on the earth. No one had escaped. 2 Chronicles 20:22-24

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)

(As is my custom, I have taken the liberty to change the word “LORD” to Yehovah. Every single time you see LORD or GOD in all capital letters in the Old Testament, the actual Hebrew word is Yehovah. This name occurs 6,828 times in the Hebrew text, yet remains untranslated in most Bibles. His name, obscured for 2,500 years, is now being revealed. It is TIME to restore the name of Yehovah!) (for deeper study click here.)


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A New Season

22 01 2013

Here is a personal view of the Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast I attended yesterday in Washington, DC. In a whirlwind trip, I drove up to DC, attended seven hours of meetings and returned to Raleigh in only 18 hours.

My first highlight was the worship I had in my car driving through Sunday night. Then, the harp and bowl worship at the event was sweet with connections in the Spirit to new and old friends. The native American presence throughout the morning had great authority in Jesus. One Chief prayed with great power for our nation. Sid Roth’s prayer was also with deep passion and effectiveness.

The top moment was the keynote message by Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Cahn. He spoke as a prophet of old with a clarion call for our nation to turn back to God. His message fit into what I have heard about this new season. I believe we have turned a corner because of refusing to heed God’s warnings. Jonathan Cahn’s famous book, The Harbinger, details his message. There is also an online Harbinger video at this link.

New APPROVED link for Jonathan Cahn’s full message at the Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast.

Pray for mercy for the United States.

Israeli election update link.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


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Face to Face

1 12 2012

Jacob & EsauThis morning I was reading the Times of Israel website and found an article about this week’s reading from the Torah, being read in Jewish congregations today. The writer’s favorite verse has a hidden meaning that does not come through in most English translations. It is in the story of Jacob and Esau, ending with Jacob wrestling with the angel of God (or even God Himself). The particular verse reveals Jacob’s plan to smooth his precarious reunion with Esau after many years and much antipathy. Jacob sends presents on ahead to indicated his positive intentions toward Esau. Here it is in New King James English.

For he said, “I will appease him with the present that goes before me, and afterward I will see his face; perhaps he will accept me.” Genesis 32:20b

What intrigues me is the fact that in the Hebrew text the word “face” is used four times. The author of the article describes it as alliteration. So, the use of the word “face” is the key.

Here is an English translation (YLT – Youngs Literal Translation) that comes close, using “face” three times. (I have used bold emphasis for the fourth.)

`I pacify his face with the present which is going before me, and afterwards I see his face; it may be he lifteth up my face;’ Genesis 32:20 YLT

Now here is what I am getting out of all this (if you are still with me). Jacob’s desire to be reconciled with Esau is understandable. He is seeking a sort of relational intimacy that was lost, which was not to be. Instead, Yehovah met Jacob that night and changed his name to Israel. The intimacy Jacob sought from Esau was instead provided by God Himself. Jacob’s name meant “supplanter”, one who took another’s place. But God gave him a new name, Israel, that means “prince with God”.

The key revelation is in verse 30. We need intimacy with God first and foremost. A human will never fulfill that deep inner need for fellowship with our Heavenly Father. Even politically, Israel is still trying to give “gifts” to placate “Esau” when what they really need is to walk with God.

And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved. Genesis 32:30

Peniel means “facing God”. Jacob named the spot Peniel because he had seen God “face to face”.

Each one of us is changed forever by the same experience. When we embrace Yeshua (Jesus) as the Messiah, the Saviour and the Promised One of Israel, we are saved. But more than being saved from Hell (fire insurance) we enter into that glorious intimacy of knowing God “face to face”. Jesus’ reason for coming was that we could know the Father. We are now part of God’s “forever family”. We are part of Israel by faith. Thank you Jesus for showing us your Father.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. “If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.” John 14:6-7

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (READ MORE)


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Mercy

7 11 2012

MERCY – My final commentary on the U.S. election.

My view of a second term for President Obama comes from several scriptures. We have prayed for mercy for our land through super storm Sandy and the election according to Job 37 (see last week’s post). We know that God is in control either for correction, for His land, or for mercy. I suspect that all three apply here. A Third Great Awakening is destined for America because of the character of God. There has never been a nation that has spread Jesus (the Bread of Life), on the waters (nations) like America has. Therefore Yehovah God will bring one last great revival.

Cast your bread upon the waters, For you will find it after many days. Ecclesiastes 11:1

This morning the sun came up and we sang: “This is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it!” How appropriate that Jesus sang those very words at His last Passover supper, the night He was betrayed. He knew what He was about to face, yet would have sung the traditional Passover hymn including Psalm 118; and we sing it with Him!

This is the day Yehovah has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise And knowledge to those who have understanding. Daniel 2:21

God is in control.

Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Romans 13:1

Finally, here is a very sober text from a time of God’s judgment on Judah.

A Warning for Rebellious Judah (Does this now apply to America?)

Now go and write down these words. Write them in a book. They will stand until the end of time as a witness that these people are stubborn rebels who refuse to pay attention to Yehovah’s instructions.

They tell the seers, “Stop seeing visions!” They tell the prophets, “Don’t tell us what is right. Tell us nice things. Tell us lies. Forget all this gloom. Get off your narrow path. Stop telling us about your ‘Holy One of Israel.’”

This is the reply of the Holy One of Israel: “Because you despise what I tell you and trust instead in oppression and lies, calamity will come upon you suddenly—like a bulging wall that bursts and falls. In an instant it will collapse and come crashing down. 

This is what the Sovereign Yehovah, the Holy One of Israel, says: “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.

So Yehovah must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For Yehovah is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help. Isaiah 30:8-13,15,18 NLT

I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever. Thomas Jefferson

Mercy, Lord Jesus!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)

(As is my custom, I have taken the liberty to change the word “LORD” to Yehovah. Every single time you see LORD or GOD in all capital letters in the Old Testament, the actual Hebrew word is Yehovah. This name occurs 6,828 times in the Hebrew text, yet remains untranslated in most Bibles. His name has been obscured for 2,500 years, but is now being revealed. It is TIME to restore the name of Yehovah!) (for deeper study click here.)


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Comic Relief

3 11 2012

William Shakespeare learned while writing his tragedies that some people would laugh at a death scene unless preceded by a silly jester. So today, it is sometimes easier to make a point of truth in the context of humor. That is why my favorite cartoonist is Israeli Yaakov Kirschen. He has drawn the Dry Bones cartoons for 40 years (in January 2013. Thank you Mr. Kirschen. This cartoon is confirmed by the following quote from Mahmoud Abbas, the head of the Palestinian Authority.

More posters from Elder of Ziyon for “Apartheid Week” here.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


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Proverbs29:9 No Shalom

12 10 2012

If a wise man contends with a foolish man, whether the fool rages or laughs, there is no peace. NKJV

If a wise person takes a fool to court, there will be ranting and ridicule but no satisfaction. NLT

If a wise man has an argument with a fool, the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet. ESV

Si el hombre sabio contendiere con el necio, Que se enoje o que se ría, no tendrá reposo. RVR

When a wise man has a controversy with a foolish man, the foolish man either rages or laughs, and there is no rest. NASB

If a wise man goes to court with a foolish man, The fool rages or scoffs, and there is no shalom. HNV

(Each of the above verses quoted from BlueLetterBible.com)

Let us apply these verses to an analysis of our own demeanor when involved in an uncomfortable conversation.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (READ MORE)


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Free Speech Lite

1 10 2012

Who said the following?: “The future must not belong to those who slander the prophet of Islam.”

Iran’s Ahmadinejad? Egypt’s Morsi? Some little-known, fatwa-flinging cleric increasing the bounty on Salman Rushdie’s head?

None of the above. The words are President Obama’s, and he spoke them this week to the U.N. General Assembly. (So begins commentary by Diana West)

I agree with her conclusion that the President of the United States (in his UN speech) was defending Muslim sensibilities more than defending the American vision of free speech. One word stands out to me in his speech: blasphemy. Our vision of free speech permits blasphemy. Consider another quote and comment from Diana West:

…the president also said: “The strongest weapon against hateful speech is not repression; it is more speech — the voices of tolerance that rally against bigotry and blasphemy, and lift up the values of understanding and mutual respect.” Let’s crack that code. “More speech” as a weapon sounds perfectly fine until the president defines it. What does he mean by “voices of tolerance” rallying against “blasphemy”? (Since when does a supposedly secular politician decry “blasphemy”?)

It is time to wake up, friends. There really is an international plan fully underway to criminalize free speech. Consider the following headlines and links.

Islamic states to reopen quest for global blasphemy law

UN Preview: Islamic States Will Push for US Free Speech Restriction

Islamic Leaders in Dearborn Mich. Plan Rally to Support Speech Prohibition

The Freedom to be Silenced

I hope you take the time to view these reports. It is now time to get serious. As we pray over the presidential election next month, we must be fully informed of the consequences of our votes.

It is my firm conviction that American Christians have the duty to vote. This falls in the same category as paying taxes. The principle Jesus applied to taxation  is equally true for voting, under our US system of government. Notice the context of Luke 20. They wanted to arrest Jesus for speech against Caesar. This is not a new problem!

Watching for their opportunity, the leaders sent spies pretending to be honest men. They tried to get Jesus to say something that could be reported to the Roman governor so he would arrest Jesus. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you speak and teach what is right and are not influenced by what others think. You teach the way of God truthfully. Now tell us—is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” He saw through their trickery and said, “Show me a Roman coin. Whose picture and title are stamped on it?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. “Well then,” he said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” So they failed to trap him by what he said in front of the people. Instead, they were amazed by his answer, and they became silent. Luke 20:20-26 NLT

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


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I Must Tell Jesus

24 09 2012
I Must Tell Jesus | Elisha A. Hoffman
  1. I must tell Jesus all of my trials,
    I cannot bear these burdens alone;
    In my distress He kindly will help me,
    He ever loves and cares for His own.

    • Refrain:
      I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!
      I cannot bear my burdens alone;
      I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!
      Jesus can help me, Jesus alone.
  2. I must tell Jesus all of my troubles,
    He is a kind, compassionate Friend;
    If I but ask Him He will deliver,
    Make of my troubles quickly an end.
  3. Tempted and tried I need a great Savior,
    One who can help my burdens to bear;
    I must tell Jesus, I must tell Jesus:
    He all my cares and sorrows will share.
  4. What must I do when worldliness calls me?
    What must I do when tempted to sin?
    I must tell Jesus, and He will help me
    Over the world the vict’ry to win.

Today I offer a little refreshing reminder that God is faithful and He is always with us.

For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrew 13:5

View my political views on my daughter Andrea’s blog: LilKidThings.com

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (READ MORE)


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Why are you defending Baal?

21 09 2012

The Muslim world is on fire on the pretext of cartoons, a video, and burning Korans. Of course, the real reason is a clash of world views between Islam and the Western Judeo-Christian culture. But let’s stick with the protests for now. Daniel Pipes suggests a cartoon a day till they just wear out.

There is one basic flaw revealed by the radical rioters. If their god really is god, why do they defend him, why doesn’t he defend himself? This seems quite clear in the Biblical account of Gideon tearing down the altar to Baal. The town folk demanded that Gideon’s father turn him over to them.

“Bring out your son,” the men of the town demanded of Joash. “He must die for destroying the altar of Baal and for cutting down the Asherah pole.” But Joash shouted to the mob that confronted him, “Why are you defending Baal? Will you argue his case? Whoever pleads his case will be put to death by morning! If Baal truly is a god, let him defend himself and destroy the one who broke down his altar!” From then on Gideon was called Jerub-baal, which means “Let Baal defend himself,” because he broke down Baal’s altar. Judges 6:30-32 NLT

It seems clear to me that apologizing to Muslims for American free speech is the opposite of this “wisdom of Joash.” I am so thankful that I serve the living God, Yehovah, of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He is the God of Israel and can defend Himself. Yehovah does not demand we give our sons to die for Him, He gave His Son, Yeshua (Jesus), to die for us. It matters what you believe.

On a personal note, thanks to all who prayed for my Idaho ministry. I spoke seven times in ten days with passionate responses each time. God is faithful!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists        (READ MORE)


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Timing is Everything

15 09 2012

Watching the US Administration’s feckless attempts to blame an amateurish YouTube video for this week’s Muslim violence against America is embarrassing. Within hours of our Libyan Ambassador’s death there were multiple reports of a well-planned Al Qaeda attack: In a video tape released a few hours before the attack, Zawahri called on the faithful to take revenge on the United States for liquidating one of the organization’s top operatives, Libyan-born Abu Yahya al-Libi in June by a US drone in northwestern Pakistan. it was a professionally executed terrorist operation by a professional Al Qaeda assassination team, whose 20 members acted under the orders of their leader Ayman al Zawahri after special training. They were all Libyans, freed last year from prisons where they were serving sentences for terrorism passed during the late Muammar Qaddafi’s rule. (DEBKAfile Sept 12)

The timing was obviously chosen as the US was remembering the fallen of 9/11. The video indeed had a role, however. Even though it had been on YouTube for months, it was shown on Egyptian TV in order to stir up the mass hysteria protests that would serve as cover for assassination team in Libya. This is an old Communist tactic Lenin made famous, relying on “useful idiots”.

Looking ahead the next few weeks, we should be aware of very significant timing. This Sunday and Monday is Rosh haShana, the Jewish New Year and the beginning of the Feast of Tabernacles high holy season in Israel and for Jews around the world. Major attacks against Israel have often occurred on Jewish holy days. The most famous was the 1973 Yom Kippur War, so named because the attack was launched on that day. We need to really be in prayer this weekend and the next two weeks. Israel may attack Iran before our elections. The Muslim hysteria may accelerate. The US Administration looks weak and unsteady to the Muslim world which only emboldens them to further action.

Finally, it must be noted that the tragic loss of American lives in Libya had a connection to President Obama’s snub of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu on Monday. ​(Genesis 12:3) He cancelled a meeting between the two at the United Nations on Sept 27 that had been announced as early as Aug 25. The reason given was “busy schedule” even though he would appear on Letterman and a fund raiser with Beyonce’. He had also agreed to a meeting with Egyptian President Morsi. On Tuesday, President Obama held a one hour phone call with Netanyahu and still refused to set a US “red line” for Iran. All of this preceded the attack on our Libyan Consulate. There is a direct cause and effect of actions by any government against Israel and consequential events. Make no mistake. (For further overwhelming evidence of this pattern, please read the excellent book by William Koenig: Eye To Eye.)

Timing is everything!

“Let the nations be wakened, and come up to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; ​​For there I will sit to judge all the surrounding nations. ​​Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. ​​Come, go down; ​​For the winepress is full, The vats overflow—​​For their wickedness is great.”  ​​Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! ​​For the day of Yehovah is near in the valley of decision. Joel 3:12-14

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (READ MORE)


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Beware the Leaven

4 08 2012

 

An ultra-Orthodox Jewish man checks a myrtle branch for blemishes at a Jerusalem market.  (REUTERS/Amir Cohen)

Then He (Jesus) charged them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” Mark 8:15

Two types of leaven are referenced by Jesus in this verse: leaven of Pharisees and leaven of Herod. We know the implication. Leaven is a yeast that spreads throughout the dough so it will rise when baked. But of what is Jesus warning us?

For years I have made the case that Communism failed to dominate the world because of one critical strategic mistake. Based on atheistic humanism, it had no spiritual component. Yes it was demonic in its character and goals, but it was not inherently spiritual at its core.

On the other hand, Islam is spiritual at its core. But Jesus said to watch out for two kinds of leaven. The leaven of the Pharisees is a “religious spirit.” They go about trying to establish their own righteousness, according to the apostle Paul. It also infects modern Christians, who try to earn salvation rather than receiving it as a totally free gift of God. There is a seduction to the idea that you must do something to qualify for it. This is the religious spirit. (Jesus further defines it as the traditions or doctrines of men and as hypocrisy. See quotes at the end of this commentary).

The leaven of Herod speaks of the other kind of leaven. It is a “political spirit.” Herod was the archetypical political animal. He double crossed, connived and deceived. He played both side against the middle. Jesus called him “that fox”. Herod reminds us of today’s politics in Washington, DC.

The debt ceiling crisis we have all just witnessed, was pure politics (an interesting oxymoron). Yet, there is a greater threat rapidly rising in this nation and the world. It is militant Islam. One main reason Islam is so powerful is that it combines the two leavens. Islam is both a religious spirit and a political spirit. Communism had only the political, but Islam has both. The lust for world conquest is not only in the core of sinful man, it is fueled and energized by the passionate religion of death. The true believers are actually convinced that salvation comes by blowing up infidels, Christians and Jews and yourself in the process. These are Muslims who are faithful to the Koran and other writings, who follow WWMD: What would Mohammed do?

How opposite is the motive from Jesus and Christians who follow WWJD: What would Jesus do? Jihadists die to save themselves. Jesus died so that we could live! Pray that Muslims all over the world will discover this great salvation offered through Jesus the true Messiah and Son of God, Yehovah. His Hebrew name is Yeshua ben Yehovah. He came because God loves the whole world. Yet, it is not automatic, one must receive Jesus as Who He is.

Pray for Muslims to be set free from that evil religious spirit of earning salvation. Also pray that they be released from the political spirit of pride and greed and arrogance driving them to conquer the earth in the name of their false god.

Pray for the Church to see the folly of religious hypocrisy and repent for political methods.

Beware the leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod!

In the meantime, when an innumerable multitude of people had gathered together, so that they trampled one another, He began to say to His disciples first of all, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Luke 12:1

Then they understood that He did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Matthew 16:12

Great article on leaven by an Israeli pastor: BEWARE

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)

(Today’s post is a reprint, originally posted on February 8, 2011)


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The Voters Are Coming!

4 07 2012

Taxed Enough Already = TEA Party

Today’s Tea Party movement is the contemporary revival of the signal cause of the American Revolution. The original Boston Tea Party was a protest over an unfair tax on tea levied by the British on the fledgling American Colonies which eventually led to the Declaration of Independence. One of the most famous quotations of the era was “No taxation without representation.” It is ironic that nearly 240 years later that the largest set of taxes in history are to be levied through The Affordable Health Care Act, aka Obamacare. Also, it was enacted without having been read and with ignorance of its provisions.

REPLACE AND REPEAL – Following the disappointing ruling of the Supreme Court, the remaining remedy to avoid this catastrophic tax is to replace the government. Before we can repeal the law and replace it with a better plan (as in the Romney slogan: “Repeal and Replace”) we must first replace the Senators who were for it and elect a new President. My appeal is to all patriotic citizens to rise up now to aid our country’s liberty, regardless of your faith or political party.

Secondly, I appeal to Christians. There are some political issues that I may hold my nose and support out of party loyalty or ideology. However, there are certain red lines that violate my Biblical faith. I appeal to Christians to bring God into the voting booth, because our nation’s liberty is on the line.

1. I will not vote for one who opposes Israel.

2. I will not vote for one who supports abortion (see NOTE below.)

3. I will not vote for one who supports infanticide.

4. I will not vote for one who dismisses the Biblical view of homosexuality.

5. I will not vote for a liar, whether in campaigning or in autobiography.

6. I will not vote for one who violates the First Amendment (freedom of religion).

Finally, every vote counts. North Carolina was carried by Obama in 2008 by only 14,177 votes. It is time for Christians with a Biblical world view to stand up and vote. But before that, register. Some are not even registered! Please help encourage your family and neighbors to vote this November. It is time for Biblical believers to wake up, stand up and speak up for Godly leadership. We in America live in a representative republic, which means our actions (or inaction) affects our leadership. We must vote and pray!

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:1-5

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)

(NOTE: Since 1973, 54 million American babies have been legally murdered in the safest place on earth, their mother’s womb. One hundred million have been born, leaving one-third of our posterity MIA! 27 million of those aborted were female. Talk about a war on women?!)


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Egypt Descends

29 05 2012

Three weeks from now Egypt will elect the Muslim Brotherhood candidate for President. This completes the descent of Egypt from a functional member of the international community of nations to a pariah nation lined up for the Biblical prophecy fulfillment of Psalm 83. They will participate in that regional war in which Israel expands from the river of Egypt (the Nile) to the great river Euphrates in northeastern Syria.

Who is Mohammad Mursi? The MB presidential candidate, and predicted winner of next month’s election, is totally committed to the Muslim Brotherhood whose motto is:

– All-h is our objective.
– The Prophet is our leader.
– Qur’an is our law.
– Jihad is our way.
– Dying in the way of All-h is our highest hope.

Mursi is committed to Sharia Law in Egypt. Mursi is reported to have answered a question about freedom of religion: “People have the right to leave Islam and we have the right to kill them.”

Egyptian cleric Safwat Higazi introduced Mursi at his May 1 campaign rally: Mursi will restore the “United States of the Arabs” with Jerusalem as its capital. Millions of martyrs march toward Jerusalem.

As someone said, the “Arab Spring” doesn’t lead to democracy, it leads to Jerusalem.

Mohammed Mursi’s view of the peace treaty with Israel: underlined the necessity for his country’s rapprochement with Iran and other Muslim states, stressing that Egypt will no more be an Israeli ally.

What does this mean for Egypt’s future? The entire chapter of Isaiah 19 is now coming into fulfillment. We need to be aware of this passage. Yehovah, God of Israel, will set Egyptians against each other, brother against brother. The destruction of Egypt under “a cruel master” will be complete. Even the Nile River will dry up!

“And the Egyptians I will give into the hand of a cruel master, and a fierce king will rule over them,” says the Lord, Yehovah of hosts. The waters will fail from the sea, and the river will be wasted and dried up. The rivers will turn foul; The brooks of defense will be emptied and dried up; The reeds and rushes will wither. Isaiah 19:4-6

In that day Egypt will be like women, and will be afraid and fear because of the waving of the hand of Yehovah of hosts, which He waves over it. And the land of Judah will be a terror to Egypt; everyone who makes mention of it will be afraid in himself, because of the counsel of Yehovah of hosts which He has determined against it. Isaiah 19:16-17

Yet, there is good news for Egypt’s future beyond this horrible time. Egyptians will turn to the God of Israel and be saved!

In that day five cities in the land of Egypt will speak the language of Canaan and swear by Yehovah of hosts; one will be called the City of Destruction. In that day there will be an altar to Yehovah in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to Yehovah at its border. And it will be for a sign and for a witness to the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt; for they will cry to Yehovah because of the oppressors, and He will send them a Savior and a Mighty One, and He will deliver them. Then Yehovah will be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians will know Yehovah in that day, and will make sacrifice and offering; yes, they will make a vow to Yehovah and perform it. And Yehovah will strike Egypt, He will strike and heal it; they will return to Yehovah, and He will be entreated by them and heal them. In that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria, and the Assyrian will come into Egypt and the Egyptian into Assyria, and the Egyptians will serve with the Assyrians. In that day Israel will be one of three with Egypt and Assyria—a blessing in the midst of the land, whom Yehovah of hosts shall bless, saying, “Blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My hands, and Israel My inheritance.” Isaiah 19:18-25

(By the way, look how nebulous this passage is with the generic “LORD” instead of His real name, Yehovah, as distinguished from all other gods.)

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


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Islam Steals Golgotha

24 05 2012

There is a serious problem taking place at one of Christendom’s holiest sites. Muslims are encroaching on the site next to the Garden Tomb in Jerusalem, called “the place of the skull” or Golgotha. This post features the latest development, two new signs embedded in a new wall right on the top of the famous Christian site. This new wall circles a Muslim cemetery on the hilltop. Look very closely in the first picture at the wall above the place of the skull (taken from the Garden Tomb observation deck). The signs are in Arabic. What do  they say?

The left sign says “Islamic Cemetery for the Mujahideen (or Freedom Fighters)”.

The right sign says “No God but All-h and Muhammad is his Messenger”.

Mujahideen comes from the root word “jihad”: The modern phenomenon of jihadism, i.e., the movement within radical Islamism that presents jihad (offensive or defensive) as the casus belli for insurgencies, guerilla warfare and international terrorism (definition from Wikipedia).

There is a more complete picture of this encroachment available on the right most tab on the Menu bar at the top of this page. (or click here).

The implications of this go far beyond religious sensitivities. It exposes the agenda of radical Islam to obliterate all other religions in their relentless drive to dominate the entire planet. We must not be ignorant of their devices.

     lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices. 2 Corinthians 2:11 NKJV

     so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:11 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem which can only come when the Messiah Jesus returns, Yeshua ben Yehovah.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


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Feckless

1 05 2012

Feckless:  feck·less/ˈfeklis/

Adjective: (of a person) Lacking in efficiency or vitality.

Unthinking and irresponsible.

Synonyms: powerless – ineffective – helpless

This word is being used more and more frequently lately to describe the quality of leadership coming from the US Administration. I just thought you would like to know the dictionary definition. It is our choice. That is why we hold elections.

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 1 Timothy 2:1-3

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)

 

 


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Lost In Translation

14 03 2012

For some time now I have listened to the voice of Yehovah God regarding a bombshell controversy in the Bible translation business. Here is the issue in a nutshell. Three major translators today are substituting the name of the god of Islam for Yehovah in Bibles intended for Muslim countries in their own languages. Their rationale is to make it more acceptable to their readers. On the surface, it may sound like a good evangelistic plan.

However, if you trick people into reading the Bible by deceiving them about the nature of God, you confuse rather than convert. Many moderns think Islam is some great complex religion, impossible to grasp. Allow me to simplify. The god of Islam is not a father and does not have a son, according to all their holy books and writings. This is indisputable from their own sources. The God of the Bible is a father and has a son revealed in both the Old Testament and the New Testament.

What does this conclude? The god of Islam is a different god. Period. Full stop. Selah.

Therefore, we do not “all worship the same god” no matter how many people, how high their place (including pastors and presidents) say otherwise. It really is that simple. You need go no further. You do not need 20 hours of comparative religion classes to “understand” Islam. You need to read your Bible. What part of: “You shall have no other gods before me” don’t you get? Exodus 20:3

The translation deception is only possible, because for millenia translators have refused to translate the name of God, Yehovah, conforming instead to Jewish rabbinic tradition. They substitute the generic LORD (in all caps) for His name. Yehovah is His personal name, mentioned 6,828 times in the Hebrew text of the Old Testament. Try reversing the substitution in your own reading. Say Yehovah every time it says LORD. You will open up an artesian well of revelation through Scripture.

Who has ascended into heaven, or descended? Who has gathered the wind in His fists? Who has bound the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name, and what is His Son’s name, If you know? Proverbs 30:4

I will declare the decree: Yehovah has said to Me, “You are My Son, Today I have begotten You.” Psalm 2:7

Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, And you perish in the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him. Psalm 2:12

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. John 3:16-17

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


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President Reagan on Faith

15 02 2012

This is an excellent followup to my previous post on Freedom of Religion, don’t need to add anything!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


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Freedom of Religion Aborted

11 02 2012

President Barack Obama regularly bypasses the basic US Constitution intentionally. His record of appointing czars (without seeking congressional confirmation), suing states, questionable executive orders, selling guns to Mexican cartels and of course, Obamacare itself, are not accidental. He is openly fulfilling his stated agenda which is to “fundamentally transform America.”

Now, a new frontal assault on freedom of religion. And, yes, this is written after his “accommodation.”

There is no shred of difference between the two policies. If the religious entity must pay for insurance that includes mandates in direct conflict with its official church faith, it is totally meaningless to suggest that they are not paying directly for the coverage. The insurance company will absolutely include its cost to provide the extra mandate in the overall cost of insurance to the church. There is no option for the church to buy from another provider, because it is mandated that all companies include the “free” coverage.

Also, it makes no difference if we were talking about providing aspirin instead of contraceptives. “It’s the mandate, stupid!” If aspirin was against church faith, the government cannot force them to pay for its provision in insurance. This is why the issue is freedom of religion and not women’s rights. The same mandate issue frames the unconstitutionality of Obamacare.

The original pioneers to America came to escape religious persecution and to find freedom to practice their various faiths without government interference. Have we forgotten that the European world 300 years ago was controlled by state churches? They killed people who did not belong to the state church, or at least made them second class citizens. Freedom of religion must be understood in that context. It means freedom to practice religion without government control (or MANDATES).

It just happens to be the very first clause in the very first amendment:

AMENDMENT I

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Mandating coverage, even in the President’s “accommodation,” directly prohibits the free exercise of religion. End of story.

Thank God for the many leaders of several faiths who are awake to the threat and who will resist this cancellation of our basic rights. We are in an ideological war. Wake up and smell the coffee. Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


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