We Stand with Israel

10 11 2023

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Biblical Christians stand with Israel because we stand with God. He is performing a last days miracle right before our eyes. Satan means evil with the Hamas Gaza war, but God is using it to advance His plan for Israel. Even though the majority of Christian denominations believe God permanently rejected the Jews, they are wrong. The error of “replacement” theology has blinded many to the glorious restoration of Israel in our day.

For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself ONE NEW MAN from the two, thus making peace, and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.”  Ephesians 2:14-18

ONE NEW MAN! Notice the flag logo attached to this article. The symbol on the left of a menorah, star of David, and a fish was found in a first century Israeli synagogue. This is a graphic picture of the  fundamental revelation of God’s ultimate plan for Israel and the world. The menorah represents the Jews and the fish was an early sign of Christians. The base of the menorah and the tail of the fish form the star of David. In the end it will not be Jews and Gentiles, because God is preparing a merger of the two. He calls it “one new man.”

Scripture is replete with verses about the miraculous return of the world wide scattered Jews to their own land. We have witnessed this as they got their land back, their Hebrew language back, their capital city Jerusalem back, as well as their people returning. In 1948 there were 600,000 Jews in Israel. Today there are 8,000,000, that is 8 million! The best part is that He is turning their hearts back to Him. They were shocked that the vaunted Israel Defense Forces (IDF) failed them on October 7th. They ultimately cannot save themselves, they need Yehovah God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

For I will take you from among the nations, gather you out of all countries, and bring you into your own land. Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean; I will cleanse you from all your filthiness and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them. Then you shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; you shall be My people, and I will be your God.”  Ezekiel 36:24-28

GRAFTED IN! God did not create a new people when He opened the Gospel to the Gentiles. He took wild branches and grafted them into the tree of Israel. This “one new man” symbol is also called the “grafted in” symbol. Jesus is merging all of His followers into one people, Israel.

“And if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them, and with them became a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree, do not boast against the branches. But if you do boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you.”  Romans 11:17-18

Pray for God’s purpose in the Gaza war. Pray for salvation for both Arabs and Jews. Pray for abundant rains in this rainy season. And pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                  (Read more)





Why Not Fear?

3 11 2023

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Fear is actually a demonic spirit, a living thing. It is not simply being startled. The spirit of fear serves the devil by paralyzing people and driving them to run and hide, or worse to spread panic and unbelief to others. This is not from God. The media is a strong purveyor of this fear. You may know the saying: “If it bleeds, it leads.” Media needs sensational headlines (clickbait). Just as Gideon fought the Midianites in his day, we now must overcome the “Media-ites.”

“Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”  2 Timothy 1:6-7

So, overcoming fear requires functional faith in God. We are believers not only because of a Biblical worldview, but because we know that God is higher and more powerful than any fear. One of my favorite examples of this concept is revealed in the days of the prophet Elisha. (This is why we call our ministry, Elisha Vision.)

“And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, “Alas, my master! What shall we do? ”So he answered, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, and said, “Yehovah, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.” Then Yehovah opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.”  2 Kings 6:15-17

Two Keys are in these verses. First, remember that God always has more than the enemy. Second, God will open our eyes to see His glorious array of angel armies that are on our side. Therefore pray that He will open your eyes! The Holy Spirit gives us sight into God’s dimension. You don’t need to be blinded by fear. More are they that are with us. See the victory of Yehovah God’s deliverance through His Messiah Yeshua!

ISRAEL UPDATE – Today Hezbollah has backed down from their threats to join Hamas and the Gaza war. Yesterday the media was all about World War III. Today its: “Never mind.” God is restoring Israel and defeating the Hamas threat. Eventually, He will also eliminate the Hezbollah threat in His timing. Evidently that timing is not now. Praise God and the Heavenly Armies in Jesus’ name!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and physical rain, along with the rain of the Holy Spirit.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                 (Read more)





No Pleasure in Death

18 10 2023

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You have seen the videos of people rejoicing over the October 7 massacre. Two points need to be understood from the Bible. First, judgement is coming on the wicked according to Obadiah. Second, the rest of us should check our attitude when the judgement comes. My Kenyan friend, Michael Masambu, made a great point on his Facebook post:

“Woe unto those that rejoice over the misfortunes of the Jewish Nation. October the 7th, 2023 will go down in the books of history as the worst day in Israel after the Holocaust. On this day the murderous gangs of Hamas sponsored by bloody thirst Iran infiltrated Israel and murdered in the most brutal way the innocent children, grandparents, the lame and the blind in the Israel territory. When this news was aired, the streets of Tehran were filled with people rejoicing and the government spokesperson praising the murder of the Israelites. As I was thinking about this, these Bible verses came to my spirit. This prophecy is powerful. Tell the enemies of Israel the pain they celebrated has become their portion.”  Michael K. Masambu

As we spoke this morning (before I saw his post) I was reading Obadiah myself. I believe the Lord wants me to confirm his comments with these two Scripture portions. The first was used by Michael in his post.

​“But you should not have gazed on the day of your brother in the day of his captivity; nor should you have rejoiced over the children of Judah ​​in the day of their destruction; nor should you have spoken proudly in the day of distress. ​​You should not have entered the gate of My people in the day of their calamity.  ​​Indeed, you should not have gazed on their affliction in the day of their calamity, nor laid hands on their substance in the day of their calamity. ​​You should not have stood at the crossroads to cut off those among them who escaped; nor should you have delivered up those among them who remained in the day of distress. For the day of Yehovah upon all the nations is near; as you have done, it shall be done to you; your reprisal shall return upon your own head.”  Obadiah 12-15

For I have no pleasure in the death of one who dies, says the Lord Yehovah. Therefore turn and live!” Ezekiel 18:32

These two points may seem contradictory, but both reveal the nature of God. Both are true. Death is the ultimate result of our rebellion against God, but what is our attitude when we see the resulting death of the wicked? Do we rejoice? Do we take pleasure in their death? Certainly, we are glad that the evil is ended. Yet, what is God’s response? No pleasure. He grieves. He would rather they would repent and choose life. That should be our attitude as well. Make no mistake, I do believe Israel must eliminate the Hamas death cult in Israel’s own existential self defense. But, even though we thank Jesus for victory, we take no pleasure in the deaths, even of the wicked. They are eternally lost. Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus. Maranatha! I believe many who are grieving in Israel at this time will turn to Yehovah God, their only true salvation through the Messiah Yeshua. That is my prayer for Jews and Arabs alike.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and timely rains.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                 (Read more)





No More Strength to Weep

12 10 2023

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Gaza invaded Israel to execute and assassinate ordinary civilians. Their purpose was not military. They intentionally murdered, raped, and beheaded elderly, women, children, and even babies. You know the news, but do you have the Biblical context and parallels? Consider the story of David before he became king. 

“And when David and his men came to the city, they found it burned with fire, and their wives and sons and daughters taken captive. Then David and the people who were with him raised their voices and wept until they had no more strength to weep.” 1 Samuel 30:3-4 ESV

I see a parallel between David and Bibi Netanyahu. Bibi’s detractors accuse him of being king, but I believe he is God’s man of this hour for Israel. Captives were taken and pursued in both cases. Already, there are those who blame Bibi for the evil invasion of Hamas from Gaza into Israel. My prayer is that Bibi will do what David did. Pray that Bibi Netanyahu is seeking counsel from the living God regarding Gaza and the captives. 

“And David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and daughters. But David strengthened himself in Yehovah his God. — And David inquired of Yehovah, “Shall I pursue after this band? Shall I overtake them?” He answered him, “Pursue, for you shall surely overtake and shall surely rescue.”  1 Samuel 30:6 & 8 ESV

“For Gaza Shall Be Forsaken.” There is another parallel with ancient and modern Gaza. The Bible clearly says that Gaza will belong to Israel. Her judgement is prophesied in Zephaniah. Gaza today is a spiritual remnant of the Canaanite demonic principality. You need to understand that the word “Cherethites” literally means “executioners” or “assassins.” That demonic spirit clearly motivates the Hamas invaders today.

“Woe to the inhabitants of the seacoast, the nation of the Cherethites! ​​The word of Yehovah is against you, ​​O Canaan, land of the Philistines: ​​“I will destroy you; ​​So there shall be no inhabitant.” ​​The seacoast shall be pastures, with shelters for shepherds and folds for flocks. ​​The coast shall be for the remnant of the house of Judah; they shall feed their flocks there; in the houses of Ashkelon they shall lie down at evening. ​​For Yehovah their God will intervene for them, and return their captives.”  Zephaniah 2:5-7

Zephaniah 2 starts with three mentions of the anger or wrath of God. I have often proposed a response to the New Age bumper sticker: “Visualize World Peace.” My alternative bumper sticker is: “Visualize the Wrath of God!” This is not a mean spirited or fleshly idea, but rather the real order of things. Before we will see true world peace, we will see the judgment of God against violence and evil. Israel will only know true peace when they recognize that Jesus (Yeshua Sar Shalom) is the real prince of peace. This is also true for the Arabs/Palestinians. We all need Jesus! Pray that this horrible Hamas massacre will turn the hearts of the people to Yehovah, God of Salvation and to His Son, Yeshua ben Yehovah the Savior.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for rain, both natural rain and the rain of the Holy Spirit.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists              (Read more)

 





Today’s Gaza Attack in the Bible

7 10 2023

Israel at war: At least 300 killed, dozens kidnapped, over 1,500 injured – Over 3,000 rockets fired towards Israel; Hamas kidnaps dozens of hostages in Be’eri and Ofakim. (Update Sunday: over 600 killed!)

This is a Saturday evening report, Eastern Time. You have probably heard of the terror invasion of Israel from Gaza, but there is a relevant Scripture that I want you to consider and pray over from the prophet Amos.

“Thus says Yehovah: 
“For three transgressions of Gaza, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, because they took captive the whole captivity to deliver them up to Edom. But I will send a fire upon the wall of Gaza, which shall devour its palaces.”  Amos 1:6-7
I see four distinct aspects in this prophecy.
1. “I will not turn away its punishment.” (after the fourth transgression.) There have been four Gaza wars since the ill-advised withdrawal of Israeli rule (for Peace!) in 2005. The above text may indicate that this new attack will involve the destruction of Gaza as a walled-off separate entity.
2.took captive the whole captivity.” A unique feature today is the taking of many captive hostages (over a hundred?)
3. But I will send a fire upon the wall of Gaza,” This speaks of the destruction of Hamas and possible re-introduction of Israeli rule, thus needing no wall.
4. ​which shall devour its palaces.” This speaks not only of the defeat of Hamas rule, but specifically eliminating Hamas leaders. The only people in Gaza with palaces are the evil terrorist leaders.
You may recall that the very name “Hamas” chosen by the terrorists themselves, comes directly from the Hebrew language and the Hebrew Bible and is translated “violence”. It is an Arabic acronym forming the Hebrew and English word Hamas which means : VIOLENCE! as a means of invoking terror by simply saying their name. The Hebrew word hamas is found in such passages as this from the days of Noah:
“The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. So God looked upon the earth, and indeed it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth.”  Genesis 6:11-12
The heinous machine gun slaughter of civilians on the streets of Israel, including women and children, is the same demonic spirit of violence (hamas). There is nothing new; this is the battle of the ages. The ancient principalities are still trying to overthrow the Kingdom of God and His salvation for sinful man. But we have read the end of the Book and we win. Israel wins. Because Yehovah God and the Messiah Yeshua are alive to keep every promise. Not one promise of God will fail. Satan has been stripped of his authority. Jesus has all authority!
Therefore we pray that God will finish the work in Gaza. We have reached the “four war limit” prophesied by Amos over 2,700 ears ago. Let’s agree together that this will be the last war with Gaza!
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for sweet abundant rains in Israel this year.
Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                (Read more)




Announcing June 2024 Israel Tour

4 10 2023

Sea of Galilee 2023

Having just returned from Israel with 35 happy travelers from six states, plus two from Kenya, I am excited to release the details of our next tour, June 17-27, 2024. Please pray about joining us in June. It was such a joy to bring 30 first timers in our group. Your life changes forever after witnessing with your own eyes the promises of God fulfilled in Jesus, the Messiah Yeshua as we walk His glorious land.

“For Zion’s sake I will not hold My peace, ​​And for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, ​​Until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, ​​And her salvation as a lamp that burns. The Gentiles shall see your righteousness, ​​And all kings your glory. ​​You shall be called by a new name, ​​Which the mouth of Yehovah will name. You shall also be a crown of glory ​​In the hand of Yehovah, ​​And a royal diadem ​​In the hand of your God. You shall no longer be termed Forsaken, ​​Nor shall your land any more be termed Desolate; ​​But you shall be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; ​​For Yehovah delights in you, ​​And your land shall be married. For as a young man marries a virgin, ​​So shall your sons marry you; ​​And as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, ​​So shall your God rejoice over you. ​​I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; ​​They shall never hold their peace day or night. ​​You who make mention of Yehovah, do not keep silent, ​​And give Him no rest till He establishes ​​And till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth.”  Isaiah 62:1-7

Here is a thank you note from two of our new friends from our Sept 2023 tour, to give you an idea of our Israel experiences.

“We really liked taking a boat ride/sailing on the Sea of Galilee, floating in the Dead Sea, seeing the Temple Mount, the waterfall at Ein Gedi, and Hezekiah’s tunnel! (Just to name a few). It was truly a great trip and it was wonderful to meet new people and make new friends! 🙂 We truly are Blessed by God to have had this opportunity! 🙂 (and grateful for all the traveling mercies along the way).”  Nick & Sarah Wiseman, Florida

Please let me know if you are interested in our June ’24 Elisha Vision Israel tour. (Click here for itinerary.)

“I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go into the house of Yehovah.” Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem! Jerusalem is built as a city that is compact together, where the tribes go up, the tribes of Yehovah, to the Testimony of Israel, to give thanks to the name of Yehovah.” Psalm 122:1-4

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain as we enter the rainy season.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists            (Read more)





Back from Israel – Wow!

16 09 2023

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Glory to God in the highest! The camel ride was a bonus. Seven camels, times two riders, times two trips. Everyone (28 chose to ride) of our group of 35 was able to ride a camel for about ten minutes. The experience at Genesis Land in the Judean desert was amazing. We had lunch with “Abraham” in his tent with his epic hospitality spiced with humor and information. And the meal was one of the best on our tour!

We were so blessed to be joined my Michael and Serah Masambu from Kenya. Twenty-nine were seeing the glorious land for the first time. Each day we experienced two or three spiritual highlights. It will take a while to process the deep moving of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. We will never be the same. Thank you Jesus!

One of the most exhilarating moments was the boat ride on the sea of Galilee. We sang and prayed and worshipped and celebrated connecting to our spiritual roots. I do not have words to express the glory of Yehovah revealed to us at every stop along the way. I can’t wait to return next June with another group.

“Therefore behold, the days are coming,” says Yehovah, “that it shall no more be said, ‘Yehovah lives who brought up the children of Israel from the land of Egypt,’ but, ‘Yehovah lives who brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north and from all the lands where He had driven them.’ For I will bring them back into their land which I gave to their fathers.”  Jeremiah 16:14-15

“Behold, I will gather them out of all countries where I have driven them in My anger, in My fury, and in great wrath; I will bring them back to this place, and I will cause them to dwell safely. They shall be My people, and I will be their God; then I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear Me forever, for the good of them and their children after them. And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from doing them good; but I will put My fear in their hearts so that they will not depart from Me. Yes, I will rejoice over them to do them good, and I will assuredly plant them in this land, with all My heart and with all My soul.”  Jeremiah 32:37-41

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and seasonal rains. We saw the first shower of the rainy season!

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists               (Read more)





Next Week in Jerusalem

1 09 2023

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So, we fly Tuesday to Israel and begin our tour. Most of our 37 member group are going for the first time. It is so exciting to witness the revelation of our faithful God that each one experiences in His holy land. It is the land of promise; and to see it in person seems to affirm and confirm His covenant on an intimate level, while equally glimpsing the big picture glory of God’s plan.

Millions of Jews from 160+ countries have become Israelis overnight just by moving to His land. I have been stirred by the Holy Spirit for many years with the prophecy of Ezekiel 36. Yehovah commanded him to literally “speak to the dirt,” to prophesy to the geographical land itself. Read it and enjoy the ancient promises that are now fulfilled before our eyes!

We are in the period of restoration that the prophets foretold. God’s people got their land back, their nation back, and they got their language back. Hebrew was not spoken as a mother tongue for over a thousand years. In addition they regained sovereignty over their capital city, Jerusalem. God turned the page from judgement to favor in a day in 1948. I teach how Psalm 102 prophetically describes the Holocaust and then makes this profound declaration of one of greatest hinges of history. The amazing turning point is announced in verse 13, which declares the set timing of God’s fulfillment, following the horrors of the Holocaust.

“You will arise and have mercy on Zion; for the time to favor her, yes, the set time, has come.”  Psalm 102:13

Few prophecies are as clearly seen in actual history in this generation. There is no ambiguity here. The Psalm and the events of recent history are perfectly aligned. Read Psalm 102 yourself. I can’t get away from the thrilling revelation of that prophecy. Verse 18 also reveals the timing, but you have to go to the Hebrew text for clarity. English translations say the Psalm is written for “a future generation” or, “a generation to come.” But in Hebrew it is very specific and literally says: “for the last generation.” This is now, folks. We are living in the last generation.

“This will be written for the generation last, (literal Hebrew) that a people yet to be created may praise Yehovah.”  Psalm 102:18

Every time I go to Israel I am overwhelmed with the faithfulness of Yehovah God. It is the miracle of God keeping His word to a thousand generations. You see it, and even touch it, when you travel to Israel for yourself. Please pray for our journey that each new person will experience that joy!

“But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No. For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes. For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.”  2 Corinthians 1:18-20

Just as Yeshua (Jesus) is the fulfillment of all the Messianic prophesies, Israel is the fulfillment of the literal land covenant prophesies. They are intertwined, inseparable threads of the majestic tapestry of God’s story of redemption. Thank you, Jesus!

Please pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for Jesus, the Prince of Peace, Yeshua Sar Shalom!

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists             (Read more)





Protesters or Vandals?

7 06 2023

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Israel has experienced left-wing protests against the conservative government for 22 Saturdays. That is their right, Israel is a free country. However, I want to highlight a problem with words used. This is also true of the left in the U.S.  This is just one small point of clarity, but applies beyond this singular incident. It may appear unimportant, but consider the following headline in Israel.

Protesters steal monument to PM’s father – A monument to Benzion Netanyahu was replaced with a banner calling him ‘Father of the Dictator’.

This headline demonstrates the hijacking of words. Just as the gay movement hijacked the rainbow symbol of God’s promise, the left is changing the definition of ordinary words. The act described in the above article would properly be called vandalism. Yet, using the term protester legitimizes the act. This is wrong. Vandalism is against the law. When peaceful protest crosses over the line to lawlessness it is no longer legitimate. Just as we must stand strong for Biblical morality, we must also reject the theft and perversion of normal word definitions. Little foxes spoil the vines.

“Catch us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines, For our vines have tender grapes.”  Song of Songs 2:15

Prime Minister Netanyahu is a fair target for criticism, but to desecrate the memory of his father is just wrong, especially while committing an illegal act. For the record, his father was almost universally loved and respected by all Israelis. He was directly involved in the formation of the nation in the 1940’s, and helped persuade the United States under President Truman to be the first to recognize the new Israeli state in 1948.

“Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, and from the opening of my lips will come right things; For my mouth will speak truth; ​​Wickedness is an abomination to my lips. ​​All the words of my mouth are with righteousness; ​​Nothing crooked or perverse is in them.”  Proverbs 8:6-8

“And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.”  Acts 2:40

Speak truth from a pure and honest heart. Follow the example of Jesus, who is Truth! Perversion is not only a sexual problem, it even affects our communication. Call it out when someone twists the meaning of words. Stand for clarity. Teach your children the importance of words.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain in season. Also remember to pray for PM Netanyahu.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                   (Read more)





Israel Please Forgive US/us

30 05 2023

My prayer to Yehovah: “Please forgive the American people for the sins of our leaders. Please do not charge their hatred of Israel to our account. Please separate your inevitable judgement of the U.S. Administration from the citizens who do not support cursing Israel.”

“For thus says Yehovah of hosts: “He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye. For surely I will shake My hand against them, and they shall become spoil for their servants. Then you will know that Yehovah of hosts has sent Me.”  Zechariah 2:8-9

We all know the boomerang principle of those who curse Israel will be cursed and those who bless Israel will be blessed, Genesis 12:3. The present dilemma has the Biden Administration opposing Israel, while most of Congress and the country support Israel as one of our most important allies. My prayer therefore seeks mercy from Yehovah to make a separation between the leaders and the people. The Biden government is illegally interfering with Israel elections, choosing sides in internal political decisions that are none of our business, and even financially support opposition protest against the duly elected government of Israel. This is not right; and this will inevitably bring judgement from God. May it not fall on the people, but only on the Administration. It is not a question of if, but only of how and when. Here are some example headlines.

State Department funds left-wing group behind protests against Israeli prime minister

US ultimatum to Netanyahu: Drop bill limiting aid to PA Arabs, score a meeting with Biden

MK Danny Danon: We respect the US but Israel’s policy will be determined by us – MK Danon responds to report that Biden admin won’t agree to mediate Israel-Saudi talks unless judicial reforms are dropped: “We must not advance our relations in the wake of an ultimatum.”

Biden’s Antisemitism Strategy Fails to Condemn BDS, Includes Hamas-Linked CAIR – This is the Biden administration’s betrayal of Jews in a nutshell.

Jill Biden to bypass Israel in Middle East trip – US First Lady Jill Biden will visit Egypt and Jordan during her first trip to the Middle East – but avoid Israel entirely.

Please pray for mercy for U.S. citizens, wisdom from above for Prime Minister Netanyahu, for seasonal rains, and for the peace of Jerusalem! We pray all these things in the matchless name of Yeshua ben Yehovah, Jesus the Son of God.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                (Read more)

Final report on the Isaiah 62 Fast





What is Jesus’ Last Name?

15 10 2022

 

 

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This is not a trick question. I challenge you to give this some thought based on the Bible. Most people would probably say His last name is Christ, and they would be wrong. Christ means Messiah, the anointed, promised One. It describes His calling, His qualification to be our Savior. The name Jesus means salvation, but it is still His actual name.

“And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.”  Matthew 1:21

Do you know His last name? Did you know He has a last name? Do you know the Father’s name? Is it possible there is a “family name”? Here is the verse that changed my whole perspective.

“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

Most people know the name of the Son, Jesus, but relatively few people know the Father’s name. I have taught much on the subject and wrote a book about the name of God, The Hebrew God Who Has No Name. Here is the optimum verse declaring His name. Note that I have changed the mistranslation of “LORD” to Yehovah. Jews traditionally do not pronounce His name, and Bible translators yield to that custom. But, the actual word in Hebrew is His name, Yehovah. That name occurs 6,828 times in the Hebrew text. Wow! We have really missed something critically important.

Moreover God said to Moses, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel: ‘Yehovah God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My name forever, and this is My memorial to all generations.’”  Exodus 3:15

Do you realize that the name Johnson came from a man named John who had a son who came to be called John’s son? Thus, the family surname was passed to their descendants. Let me suggest that the same is true with Yehovah. His Son, Jesus, has a first name and a last if you follow me. You might say His name is Jesus Yehovahson. Or, in Hebrew: Yeshua ben Yehovah, which is Yeshua, Son of Yehovah. Jesus carries “the family name.” He had laid it is aside, with His deity, according to Philippians 2. 

“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Yehovah, to the glory of God the Father.  Philippians 2:9-11

Again, I have changed Lord to Yehovah. I believe this verse is connected to Isaiah 45:23 where the exact phrase is used by Yehovah concerning Himself. After Jesus had obeyed His Father to the extreme point of His death on the cross, Yehovah then exalted Jesus back to His place in the family. The name of Jesus is exalted because the Father restored Jesus to the family name, Yehovah. Pray about this and see if the Holy Spirit (of Yehovah) confirms it your own heart.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain on the land of Israel.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists             (Read more)

Why  do I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah? Here is a link to the explanation in my book: The Hebrew God Who Has No Name. And here is a link to a great visual from my friend Keith Johnson.





Feasting, Celebration, and Hope

9 10 2022

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The Biblical Feast of Tabernacles starts at sundown tonight, October 9th. Jews all over the world remember the sojourn in the wilderness after deliverance from Egypt. Even in 2022 many Jews will sleep outside tonight in little makeshift tabernacles, called sukkahs in Hebrew, as a reminder. But, is there a future meaning? Yes. Are Christians obligated to keep this feast? No, we observe it in solidarity with the Jews voluntarily, rejoicing that we have been grafted in to the commonwealth of Israel. We are not required to keep the Mosaic law, (see Acts 15).

Christians believe Jesus fulfilled the spring feasts of Passover and the summer feast of Pentecost (Shavuot). The fall feasts will also be fulfilled by His Second Coming. How specifically does He fulfill Tabernacles? Since it is the harvest feast, it speaks of the great end-time harvest of souls. But, it also speaks of the marriage supper of the Lamb. The most wonderful feast of all history is when we sit down with Him after He establishes His Kingdom on earth. The book of Hebrews calls this the “blessed hope.”

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.”  Titus 2:11-14

Tabernacles is a seven day feast ending next Sunday at sundown. Let your week be filled with hope of the soon return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Yeshua the Messiah! Celebrate the coming Kingdom!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for the watering of the Land of Israel.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                (Read more)





Hypocrisy, Coffee, and My Life Verse

26 08 2022

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Quoted from Twitter

This is from our “You can’t make this up” Department. Starbucks promoted mail-in ballots for politics, but view them as untrustworthy for their own union elections. Starbucks is not even faithful to their own stance, but two-faced when it affects the bottom line. What hypocrisy! My emphasis for decades has been the faithfulness of God. He is always the same, immutable, unchangeable. You cannot separate faith from faithfulness. If you truly believe God, you will live like you believe; that is faithfulness.

“If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.” 2 Timothy 2:13

He cannot deny Himself! He is always faithful no matter what we do. He does not follow us, He leads us by example. He is the model; we are not. This brings me to my main point of my life verse.

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6

There are two requirements of faith here. First, we must believe God exists. That’s easy. Even the demons know He exists, and they tremble. That is not enough!

“You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” James 2:19-20

My life verse has guided me for over sixty years. God is a rewarder! He who comes to God must believe that He exists AND secondly; we must believe that He is a REWARDER of those who really seek Him. Have you ever accused God of letting you down? Are you tempted to believe the fault for your failures lies with Him? Do you project your own unfaithfulness onto God?

The wonderful news is that He is always faithful, even when we are not! If you keep seeking Him, He will never let you down. He is faithful. Yehovah God is faithful. Jesus is faithful. Holy Spirit is faithful! Repent. Trust Him. Believe that He will absolutely reward your seeking of Him. Live for Him!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for seasonal rain.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                   (Read more)





You Are Not Good, You Are Stubborn

18 07 2022

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Why did Yehovah God give the land of Canaan to Israel? Was Israel righteous? As a matter of fact, they were not. There are two reasons Yehovah blessed Israel with the Holy Land. He revealed these reasons just as Joshua led them across the Jordan River into the glorious land! 1. The previous inhabitants were so wicked they lost their right to the land. 2. God had made an unconditional promise, an oath, to their ancestors and He does not lie. Therefore they would receive the promised Land.

“After Yehovah your God has done this for you, don’t say in your hearts, ‘Yehovah has given us this land because we are such good people!’ No, it is because of the wickedness of the other nations that he is pushing them out of your way. It is not because you are so good or have such integrity that you are about to occupy their land. Yehovah your God will drive these nations out ahead of you only because of their wickedness, and to fulfill the oath he swore to your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. You must recognize that Yehovah your God is not giving you this good land because you are good, for you are not—you are a stubborn people.”  Deuteronomy 9:4-6 NLT

You Are Not Good. – Have you notice the popularity of the phrase: “I’m good?” We say it all the time when a waiter asks if we want anything else. I like to good naturedly contradict my friends once in awhile when they say it. “Only God is good!”

“Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good. “Mark 10:18 NLT

You Are Stubborn. – Why do we fight so hard against yielding to Jesus? It is because we are born with the sin nature of selfishness. We are naturally stubborn. Only by being born again in Jesus by the Holy Spirit are we empowered to overcome our old nature. This verse is more profound than we realize:

“Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. So because you have rejected the command of Yehovah, he has rejected you as king.” 1 Samuel 15:23 NLT

This judgement was spoken to King Saul, but it applies to all of us about our own rebellion and stubbornness. Here is the profound revelation. How is stubbornness like idol worship? It is because we worship our own will and opinion above God’s. We make ourselves the idol in place of Yehovah God! Praise Yeshua our Messiah that we are forgiven and given new life through Him!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for seasonal rains.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists              (Read more)

Why  do I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah? Here is a link to the explanation in my book: The Hebrew God Who Has No Name. And here is a link to a great visual from my friend Keith Johnson.





What Time Is It?

14 05 2022

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Timing is everything. What time is it now? Bible prophecy is always dependent on timing. Everything does not happen at once. Sequences of events lead chronologically step by step. Contrary to popular opinion, history is not circular, it is linear. Genesis is the account of “the beginning.” God has a purpose that has a beginning and ending. The end is His perfect Kingdom of righteousness with no sin, sickness, sorrow, or death. Consider these examples.

  1. Biblical Esther came for “such a time as this.” For her, it was a critical role in the literal saving of the Jewish race. She was willing to die, “to perish,” if necessary. As I prepare to speak in two weeks at the Arise and Shine Conference at Living Waters Ranch in Challis, Idaho, this theme is on my heart. “If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 NLT
  2. The tribe of Issachar “understood the times” and knew what Israel ought to do. How many Christians today know what time it is? Are Christians like the Pharisees?
    “One day the Pharisees and Sadducees came to test Jesus, demanding that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority. He replied, “You know the saying, ‘Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow; red sky in the morning means foul weather all day.’ You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don’t know how to interpret the signs of the times!” Matthew 16:1-3 NLT
  3. Jesus Himself even had to wait for the timing of His death. He is also waiting for the timing of His return, known only to the Father. He often said His time was not yet, until it became “the time.” You go up to this feast. I am not yet going up to this feast, for My time has not yet fully come.” When He had said these things to them, He remained in Galilee.” John 7:8-9 But then later… Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives.” John 12:23-24 NLT
  4. It is high time to wake up! And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.” Romans 13:11-14

So, where are we on this timeline? I believe we are at a crossroads for our nation. It is time to wake up, stand up, and speak up for the Kingdom of Yehovah God and His Messiah. He is our only hope. But through Him we are “more than conquerors.” More are they that are with us than they that are with the enemy, as Elisha told his servant when surrounded by the Syrian army.

It is time to open our eyes to the eternal purpose of God. You may feel surrounded, or even hopeless, but God is in control. Jesus is on the throne! His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Don’t give up!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain for Israel.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists              (Read more)





Do THIS! – Remember Ishtar?

16 04 2022

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The most glorious sunrise in 6,000 years of history on earth revealed that the tomb was empty. Jesus was raised from the dead! He is alive! Just hours before his execution He led His last Passover meal with His disciples. There are three keys from that dinner that guide our relationship with Him today.

  1. Jesus said at that moment: “For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.” Luke 22:18 The next meal will be the marriage supper of the Lamb!
  2. Do THIS!He gave a most significant instruction at that Passover which is minimized by many of today’s Christians. And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, “This is my body which is given for you: THIS DO in remembrance of me.” Luke 22:19 The “THIS” that He was referring to, is the Passover meal which Christians call the Last Supper. It has been shrunk down from a full meal with four meaningful cups, to a thimble of juice and bit of bread. We can all reap the rich importance of Passover, not only the Jews.
  3. The third key is found in the same verse: And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, “This is my body which is given for you: this do IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME.” Luke 22:19 Somehow, we have managed to replace Jesus in the name of the resurrection celebration with the name of the Babylonian pagan goddess of fertility. Known as “the queen of heaven,” this pagan goddess has been called by various names such as: Ishtar, Astarte, Diana of the Ephesians, and Venus, from which we now have “Easter,” (from Ishtar). This is most unfortunate because most Christians don’t have a clue that our most glorious season does not “remember” Jesus, but rather carries the name of a demonic goddess. I would love to see the church move away from the pagan name and call the glorious morning “Resurrection Day!”

Finally, notice I said these verses guide our “relationship” with Jesus. I am not talking about religious duty, but rather knowing Him as a friend. The Kingdom of God is relational. It is not “what” you know, but “Who” you know. After training His disciples for several years as “disciplined followers,” Jesus promoted them to the highest honor:

“No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you FRIENDS, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.” John 15:15

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for seasonal rains.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists,              (Read more)

For further background on our use of pagan god’s names, you may like a post I did twelve years ago, April 15, 2010: The Ban On Baals





Four Days, Nearly 40,000 Saved

19 10 2021

MKM Harvest time

After four days of Michael Masambu’s Matthew 10 Initiative, 40,000 Kenyan students have prayed for salvation through Jesus. This was in the region of Kitale, Kenya. Nearly 60 teams are in the field for two weeks speaking in every school in three counties. (Kenya counties are like our states.) They expect to speak to 1.8 million students from elementary to university by the end of October. Michael and I spoke on the phone for 40 minutes with the first update. Please continue to pray for the goal of 600,000 saved.  If you missed the video explanation you can view it here.

He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him. Psalm 126:6 ESV

Also, please pray that Michael’s visa will be approved. He has ministry itinerary in Idaho, Washington, Texas, Mississippi, and North Carolina for the month of November, ending here in the Raleigh area on December 5. God is bringing in a great harvest in Kenya and we pray for a great awakening here in the United States. The Lord showed me that the “woke” movement is a counterfeit of Yehovah’s awakening. I wrote two blog posts about that on 9-29 and 10-1. (You can always access older posts by clicking on the “Home” button on the Menu bar at the top, and scrolling down.)

Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work. Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest. Already the one who reaps is receiving wages and gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together.” John 4:34-36 ESV

Pray for Kenya to move their embassy to Jerusalem, pray for Jerusalem and pray for rain.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                    (Read more)





One Week Till Jesus Comes?

30 08 2021

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That blog title is what is known as clickbait. However, I do have a point. The Fall Feasts of Yehovah start next Monday night on the Jewish calendar, although Biblically it could be the next day or so and not necessarily at sundown.

Confused? Because of several references to Jesus coming at the sounding of the trumpets, I believe it refers to that specific time on God’s calendar. The first Fall Feast is known as Yom Teruah (the day of the sounding of trumpets). It is also Rosh Hashana, the new year, 5782.

When Jesus was talking to His disciples about His return, He made an intriguing statement.

“However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows.” Matthew 24:36 NLT

Most interpret that verse as an absolute conclusion that there is no clue when He will come. However, the Jewish culture at the time of Jesus had a saying about Yom Teruah starting as “No man knows the day or hour.” That is because it starts Biblically at the actual physical sighting of the new moon from the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. If it was cloudy you might not see it till midnight or later, or may not until the next night. Thus the saying.

Now, I am not stating a doctrine, just a little food for thought. So, what if Jesus used that common Jewish phrase as a hint, a clue, that He would return during the sounding of the trumpets on Yom Teruah? Even Jesus did not know at that time what the weather would be at His return, but we can know the season.

“…in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” 1 Corinthians 15:52

I could be wrong, and we should be ready to meet him every day. But, I must say it is just a little more exciting at this time of year. And wouldn’t this be a great year for Him to come? Next week?!

This year also happens to be a Shmita year; when observant Israelis leave their fields fallow (one year every seven) to allow the land to rest and restore its nutrients for better crops the other six years. Some even believe it is a Jubilee year, (although it seems like somebody says that every year).

With all the shaking in the whole earth, wouldn’t this be a good time? Are you ready to meet Him? If it is not, then we we will carry on with His business until He comes.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain for Israel.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists.                      (Read more)





Has God’s Law Ended?

2 08 2021

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Israel is not removed from God’s plan, but is restored after great judgement. Romans Chapters 9-11 clearly define Israel’s place in the eternal purpose of God. Most of this passage is clear. However, the section at the start of Chapter 10 has been wildly misunderstood.

“For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” Romans 10:4

This verse confuses those who miss the context. It is often only partially quoted: “Christ is the end of the law.” That is not what it says. What has ended is the idea that righteousness can be earned by keeping God’s law. Jesus ended that once and for all by providing our salvation as an absolute gift of God’s grace. This is consistent with the Old Testament, for example:

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and Yehovah has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9

Isaiah and Jeremiah understood that man was incorrigibly corrupted by sin in his very nature. Only when Yehovah laid all of our iniquity on the Messiah, could there ever be deliverance from that nature. Now let us look at the context of Romans 10 and feel the heart of Apostle Paul. He previously had been at the top of the Pharisee food chain. If anyone could have earned righteousness it was Paul.

“Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” Romans 10:1-4

Paul clearly explains in Chapter 11 that Israel will be saved in the end, but here he charges them with ignorance of “God’s righteousness.” He contrasts His great revelation of salvation by faith without works of any kind, to our human attempts to establish what he calls “their own righteousness” by keeping the law, which is impossible. God meant for us to recognize the impossibility and throw ourselves on His mercy. But instead, they (and we) go about trying to “be righteous.” We can only be free when we give up, and receive the free gift of salvation through the transaction of the blood of the Lamb and Messiah. What a relief, when we realize He does not expect us to “get righteous” by perfectly keeping the law and never sin in any way!

The Law has not ended. The wicked will be judged by the Law. What ended was revealed in the last, often skipped, phrase: “end of the law for righteousness.” In their zeal they tried to keep the law, ignorantly thinking it was possible. But now we are believing by faith in the finished work of the resurrected Messiah. They also will be saved by having faith in the Jewish Messiah. Thank you, Yeshua ben Yehovah!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for seasonal rains.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists                (Read more)





“The Chosen” is Relational

21 04 2021

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The Kingdom of God is relational. The world system is transactional. This clear contrast is the simplest way I know to express the character of God’s Kingdom purpose in the earth. Now, I want to encourage you to watch “The Chosen” series about Jesus calling His disciples. It is an outstanding portrayal of the RELATIONSHIPS of the disciples with each other and with Jesus. The casting of each disciple and their character development in the story is superb. Most stories of Jesus focus on doctrines and textual faithfulness and are written for Christians. This endeavor is what is called historical fiction. The Biblical facts are the base, but then the back stories of each character are developed with historical context. When I watch it, I am able to vicariously put myself in the accurate context of First Century life.

The Chosen is relational. This is a multi-season series with season one (8 episodes) now available on the internet, with season two being released every few weeks. Season Two, episodes 1-3 are now online. The best way to view these is to download the special FREE app they have offered. You can watch on your phone or computer and even cast it to your smart TV.  Also, DVDs are available. Just go to you App store, search The Chosen, and download. You will thank me! As I write this blog, The Chosen, has been viewed over 131 million times! Here is a link to get you started. THE CHOSEN

“For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Romans 14:17

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists                (Read more)





God and Congress

5 03 2021

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You may have heard Congressman Jerry Nadler’s quote on the news. Someone on Facebook misquoted it and then fact checkers declared the “misquote” to be false. However, here is the exact quote: “What any religious tradition describes as God’s will is no concern of this Congress.” 

Ironically, the national motto “In God We Trust” appears on the wall of Congress right behind the Speaker’s rostrum. God we trust. Congress? Not so much. The founding fathers believed that Congress itself was birthed by God and derived its authority from Yehovah and the Bible. The influence of our Judeo/Christian, Bible-based form of government is the model for the world. It is quite dangerous for our nation and especially for Congressman Nadler to defy the living God. His unashamed boldness only highlights how far we have fallen. We must pray for mercy for our leaders and our country.

The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, and have done abominable iniquity; There is none who does good. Psalm 53:1

“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” Galatians 6:7

President Biden ran on the motto of “saving the soul of America,” yet it seems there is a rising rebellion against God that is bolder than ever. In the end, Yehovah God Himself will judge. God’s Son, Jesus, will sit at the judgement seat and separate the sheep from the goats. Now, more than ever, we must be about our Father’s business and share the great news of the salvation of Yeshua ben Yehovah. He saves not only our souls, but our body and our spirit for life eternal with Him at the right hand of God our Father.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists                     (Read more)





Never Again Uprooted

2 03 2021

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Israel is a nation raised from the dead. This great prophecy from Amos 9 applies to today’s restoration of Israel. Millions of Jews have returned, from nearly every nation on earth, as a stirring testimony to the faithfulness of Yehovah God. Every word He has spoken will be fulfilled. What a joy and privilege to live in this great day.

“I will firmly plant them there in their own land. They will never again be uprooted from the land I have given them,” says Yehovah your God.”  Amos 9:15 NLT

  1. Yehovah is the One who is doing it.
  2. They are back in their own land, ancient Israel, not any other location.
  3. It is permanent, never to be removed again from their land.

This is not new to us. We have witnessed it with our own eyes for over seventy years. Israel was in Egypt for over 400 years, Babylon for over 70, and the dispersion to all countries for over 1,800 years! The Bible revealed each of those sojourns, but no more! No more will they ever be uprooted from the Land Yehovah gave them. Hallelujah!

No matter how hard the nations rage and try to block Him, Yehovah wins. They will fail. All the demons of hell, the fallen angels and the devil himself will utterly fail. It might be a good time to step back and remember the immutable, unchangeable promises of God. When you are tempted to slump down under the many pressures of life. Remember what God has done. Remember what He is doing now. And remember His promised victory yet to come. Remember also to guard your faith.

“And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.” Matthew 24:12

I was blessed by Pastor John Thrift’s word Sunday morning at Grace Assembly. He reminded us of the cause of many Christians who grow cold, allowing the fire of their faith to go out. The great time of lawlessness in the earth is now upon us. If we focus on the abominations and rebellion around us, we risk the cold heart of unbelief. This is the time to look up to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. He is seated at the right hand of Yehovah God in Heaven; and He is right on time; and He is in control of our eternal destiny if we allow Him. As the wise virgins, we must keep our lamps trimmed and filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit.

“Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.”  Matthew 24:11:14

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for and give thanks for the seasonal rains of restoration!

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists                   (Read more)





Arab Mayor Endorses Netanyahu

16 02 2021

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This is no small story. Nazareth Mayor Ali Salam represents a breakout trend in Israel. Since the “circle of peace” normalization with Israel by several Arab/Muslim states, a new openness is emerging internally in Israel. Arab Palestinians have long secretly preferred being citizens of Israel but now they are free to be public about it. Nazareth, a city of 110,000 people, is the largest Arab city in Israel. Israel’s population is nearly 9 million, of which almost 2 million are Arab citizens. Pray for the March 23 Israel election.

Recently, an Arab member of the Knesset (Israeli parliament) came out in favor of Netanyahu and his conservative Zionist Likud party. That was a break from the anti-Israel Arab block in the Knesset. Netanyahu has even promised a ministerial post to an Arab member of Likud. Bloggers in Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia have spoken out for Israel. This trend will continue and expand as the Gulf states and other Muslim countries open embassies in Israel. Kosovo, a Muslim state in Europe has already announced  it will open its embassy in Jerusalem. This is truly historic. Even Indonesia may normalize with Israel.

How does this fit with prophecy? For years now I have been quoting Psalm 83 regarding the Arab states around the Israel borders. I used to think the Psalm 83 War would end a victorious military victory for Israel, but I was wrong. It has ended with the circle of peace. The Arab “cousins” of the Jews will eventually be joined with Israel, some even by converting to Jesus (Yeshua ben Yehovah), the Jewish Messiah.

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 Yehovah 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 healit; 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 19:19-25

Really? Yes, really! God has spoken it and He will do it. Yehovah does not lie or fail to keep any of His promises. Wow! Stay tuned. It is going to get better. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and thank Him for this week’s big snow storm in Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists                   (Read more)

Why  do I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah? Here is a link to the explanation in my book: The Hebrew God Who Has No Name. And here is a link to a great visual from my friend Keith Johnson.





The Secret Place

16 01 2021

Yehovah

Where is the secret place of safety spoken of in the Bible? Is it a geographical place, like Jerusalem? If it is a secret, how many people really know where it is? Let me share insight to the answer to this puzzle. The answer is hidden in plain sight. A friend this week urged all of us to get serious about Psalm 91. It is such a great encouragement in times of deep trouble, such as the events in today’s political landscape. I would like to touch on just one aspect: the secret place.

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. ​​I will say of Yehovah, “He is my refuge and my fortress; ​​My God, in Him I will trust.” Psalm 91:1-2

“Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; ​​I will set him on high, because he has known My name.” Psalm 91:14

Verse 14 explains two reason He protects us. First is because we choose to love Him. Second, we know His name. Let me suggest the secret is connected to knowing His name. His name is Yehovah, the Almighty Creator God, the eternally existent One. His name is above every other name and every other God. Yet, it is even more than simply being aware of His name as a fact of knowledge, it is knowing Him! He desires that we have a relationship with Him. The Kingdom of God is, first of all, relational. It is not about theology or religion, it is personal. When I first met the Messiah Yeshua as my own personal Savior, I was born again. My life began there at that moment with an actual relationship with Jesus. That was also true in an amazing sense when I found a personal relationship with God, the Father Himself. We can walk and talk with Him as with a friend. Have you discovered this secret? Here is another way of saying the same thing.

The name of Yehovah is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10

This name, Yehovah, appears in the original Hebrew text over 6,800 times, but is miss-translated as “LORD” every time. Lord is a real word in Hebrew, Adonai, but it is not the name of Yehovah. He certainly is Lord, but there are many Lords in history, yet only one Yehovah. If you see “LORD” in all capital letters in your Old Testament, the real Hebrew word is Yehovah. If you see “Lord,” without all capitals, then the word is Adonai. This is part of the secret hiding place of His name. Start using His name, it will change your life. Some may pronounce it “Yahweh” or other slight variations, but still use it. Use His name. His name is the strong tower. The righteous (through the blood of the Passover Lamb, Yeshua) run into His name, Yehovah, and are safe!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain in this rainy season in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists                          (Read more)





Why is Hanukkah Happy?

12 12 2020

Dry Bones Hanukkah 2020

We are in the eight days of Hanukkah and many have no idea of the meaning, even though it is in the New Testament. The simple definition is “dedication.” That is how you discover it in John’s Gospel. You may be surprised to learn that Jesus observed this holiday.

“Now it was the FEAST OF DEDICATION in Jerusalem, and it was winter. And Jesus walked in the temple, in Solomon’s porch. Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, “How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” John 10:22-24

Hanukkah is called the Feast of Dedication for a reason. About 150 years before Jesus came, the Greeks desecrated the Temple in Jerusalem and were going to destroy it. The Jew defeated them under Judas Maccabee, but then needed to rededicate the Temple. The special nine-candle menorah, called a Chanukkiah, commemorates that great victory.

In the year 168 BCE, the Temple in Jerusalem was desecrated and renamed for the Greek god Zeus. Antiochus had outlawed Judaism, banning the observance of Shabbat and holidays. He set up altars to Greek gods in the Temple, and gave Jews a choice that unfortunately would become familiar in future centuries: Convert or die. The Maccabees decided to resist instead — and won, despite facing overwhelming odds. Forward.com

Jewish tradition tells us they had only enough oil for one day, but needed eight days to consecrated more oil. Thus the miracle of the oil lasting eight days. Yet, the real miracle was the defeat of the Greeks. So, they have eight candles that are lit sequentially each day. But what about the ninth candle? The Jews call it the servant candle, used to light the others. What an amazing revelation for Christians of Jesus who is called the servant-king and is the light of the world!

“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12

There is one more thing about the context of Jesus in the Temple for Hanukkah. They asked Him if He really was the Messiah to tell them plainly. A bit further down in John 10, the answer comes when He says he told them and they did not believe, and ends the paragraph with this declaration:

I and My Father are one.” Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him. John 10:30-31

They did not kill Him this time. It was one of half a dozen times they tried to kill Him before His time. But why? They considered it blasphemy to equate Himself with God. The reason they drew Him into declaring as the Messiah was so they had an excuse to kill Him. Yet, that would only come in the appointed manner and time of God’s own choosing.

I hope you see the value as a Christian to lighting the Hanukkah candles. Yes, we identify with our Jewish roots, but more importantly we worship and proclaim Jesus as the Son of God, Yeshua ben Yehovah!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and continue to pray for seasonal rains in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists                      (Read more)





America’s War with America

27 10 2020

 

Dry Bones America America

American Presidential election 2020, and the whole world is watching.

We are in the final week of the chaos election. I don’t need to list examples. But this cartoon really captures a profound reality. The American republic with 231 years of representative government, is at war with the utopian socialist dreams of actual Marxists. They dominate media, the Democrat Party, and public education. I am not saying all people in those categories are Marxists. I am saying they are dominated by Marxist theory. 

Similarly, the other side, while not largely Christian or Jewish, is highly influenced by the historic American heritage based on the Judeo/Christian standard derived from the Bible. In a certain sense we see ideas that have worked amazingly well for centuries strongly resisted by those who hold ideas that have never worked in practical application.

In the vast middle we have people who do not hold either idea intentionally. They go along with various winds of social change that appeal to random feelings at the time. That is why media is so powerful to influence the masses. The only defense against this onslaught is to think for yourself. Be well read, especially in history and Bible knowledge, which was normal for not only our founding fathers, but their families and indeed the wider population.

And oh, by the way, there is one other antidote. VOTE!

This election is in Yehovah God’s hands. He has the final say. However, in our republic, He will hold us individually accountable for our vote. The America of history is always “we the people.” God is on the throne, but He uses each of us in His Plan. We each have a place, a roll to fulfill, even as simple as one vote. I encourage you to read all of Revelation 5 at the link below.

He stepped forward and took the scroll from the right hand of the one sitting on the throne. And when he took the scroll, the four living beings and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp, and they held gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. And they sang a new song with these words: “You are worthy to take the scroll and break its seals and open it. For you were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. And you have caused them to become a Kingdom of priests for our God. And they will reign on the earth.”  Revelation 5:7-10 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, rain in Israel, and the U.S. election.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists                  (Read more)





Self-evident Truths

10 07 2020

Declaration of IndependenceWe hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Declaration of Independence

Have you ever considered the first phrase of the Declaration? There are three distinct thoughts: We holdthese truths self-evident. We hold on, closely, without compromise, to these certain truths. We consider them to be obvious, self-evident. The evidence of their truth is clearly embodied in the very speaking of them.

Self-evident truth is a little like the humorous phrase: “Common sense is not as common as it used to be.” Actually, that quote originated with Voltaire: “Common sense is not so common.” However, we are talking about transcendent truth that is higher and more profound than common sense. It carries a prerequisite for the hearer, that you love the truth. Otherwise you can miss it entirely.

“This man (of lawlessness) will come to do the work of Satan with counterfeit power and signs and miracles. He will use every kind of evil deception to fool those on their way to destruction, because they refuse to love and accept the truth that would save them. So God will cause them to be greatly deceived, and they will believe these lies. Then they will be condemned for enjoying evil rather than believing the truth.” 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 NLT

So, do you know the five self-evident truths in the Declaration?

  1. All men are created equal.
  2. The Creator grants rights to all people.
  3. These rights include life.
  4. These rights include liberty.
  5. These rights include the pursuit of happiness.

Bible believers know that truth is not only a concept, it is the person of Jesus, the Messiah.

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 NLT

“But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.” Romans 1:18-20 NLT

Wow! That is a pretty clear statement that the truth about God is obvious. As we pray for our nation in this time of crises, pray that people will gain a love of the truth. God desires to show mercy if we only repent of our self love and cry out to Him. Cry out for Jesus, the Truth, the Life-giver.

Also, continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain in season.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists                  Read more





White Privilege or God Privilege?

2 06 2020

2019 pda conf patrick

There is much talk these days about white privilege. But allow me to explain something. The Bible is clear in declaring: Blessed is the nation whose God is Yehovah. God deals with us on two levels. He deals with nations, and he works with individuals. Jesus will judge between sheep and goat nations, but each of us will stand before Him on our own.

Historically many who accepted the Gospel happened to be white, since the message spread through Europe, which led to blessing and favor from God. In Africa, one of the most blessed nations happens to be Kenya. Are Kenyans white? They are blessed because 80% of Kenyans follow Jesus. Privilege is the favor of God, not the color of our skin.

The United States was largely founded by people who followed Jesus. Even though many have rejected Him in recent decades, America is still reaping the blessings and favor of God from our ancestors. This is not racial favor, it is Jesus favor. His blessings are for whosoever wills to serve Him.

The church is multi-racial with one culture, the Kingdom culture. When we emphasize ethnic culture to divide us, we learn hate and prejudice. We should embrace each other’s unique cultural values, but become one as Americans and as believers. That is where the blessing, and favor, and privilege comes from. Our fight is not against other humans, but we must resist the evil lies and plans of Satan. We are in a spiritual battle where the devil seeks to set us against one another. Resist him. Rise up and follow the living God of Israel and His Son, the Messiah Yeshua. Love your neighbor as yourself.

Let all the earth fear Yehovah; ​​Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. ​​

For He spoke, and it was done; ​​He commanded, and it stood fast. ​​ Yehovah brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; ​​He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. ​​The counsel of Yehovah stands forever, ​​the plans of His heart to all generations. ​​

Blessed is the nation whose God is Yehovah, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance. ​

Yehovah looks from heaven; ​​He sees all the sons of men. ​​From the place of His dwelling He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth; ​​He fashions their hearts individually; ​​He considers all their works. Psalm 33:8-15

He fashions their hearts individually. We each are given a choice of life and death. Choose life! Those of you who know me have heard me say the same thing when asked how I am doing. “I am blessed more than I deserve!” That is the absolute truth, even though I borrowed that saying from Dave Ramsey. We are saved by grace, we don’t earn  or deserve this wonderful salvation life. Pray for our nations and pray for every person to stand “under the spout where the glory comes out.” It is all from God. Hallelujah!

And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; For You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation” Revelation 5:9

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for seasonal rains in abundance.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists

(Why  do I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah? Here is a link to the explanation  in my book: The Hebrew God Who Has No Name.) and here is a link to a great visual from my friend Keith Johnson.





The Bible is not Ancient

19 05 2020

radioTo most modern Americans, the Bible is an ancient collection of out of date stories. But that is wrong. The Bible is more current than today’s newspaper headlines, because God sees the end from the beginning. The word of God is living energy, transforming everything it touches. Consider this verse.

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

The phrase “living and powerful” comes from Greek words that mean “alive” and “energy.” God’s word is alive! God’s word is energy! Think about it. His words are not lying around in some dead letter office. His message is throbbing with life, imparting life, breathing His very being into ours as we listen to Him.

When He speaks it is far more than inspiration. Powerful energy is released into our spirit, soul, and body. You need to understand that literally. When you are feeling blah, and listless, hearing the voice of God fires you up. I am not talking about the Bible as opinions of various writers, but as the Holy Spirit breathing out the very voice of the living Yehovah God, King of Creation.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16 ESV

God lives outside of the human time/space continuum. When He speaks into our human condition, there is a supernatural effect. It is beyond natural. He speaks through the Bible, through visions and dreams, through prophesies, and even through circumstances. The key for us is to see what He is saying, to listen expectantly, ready to receive.

Most people think God never speaks to them. That is dead wrong. God speaks to every person on this planet. The problem is that we are not listening, or don’t want to listen, or are just too busy with our own selfish pursuits. The problem is that there are too many voices. Think of it as a radio with hundreds of stations with every imaginable programming. But, you hear every station, every frequency all at once, at the same time. Somewhere in the cacophony of sounds assailing your senses, there is one clear channel with the voice of God. How do you tune Him in, and tune the others out? The others are louder and demanding, and yet God is speaking. Can you hear Him? Try it.

Pastor John Thrift preached Sunday at Grace Assembly in Wake Forest, NC. He talked about a great commandment that is rarely preached. When Jesus appeared on the mountain with Moses and Elijah, who represented the Law and the Prophets, God gave a clear command. When Peter started talking, God interrupted Peter. Think of that. Even Peter was talking when he should have been listening. Whew!

Yehovah directed Peter to Jesus, His “beloved Son,” and commanded: “Hear Him!”

He (Peter) was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” Matthew 17:5 ESV

Have you ever considered that commandment? Are you talking, instead of listening? Maybe it is time pay attention to His voice? Consider what I say. Try praying this simple prayer: “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.”

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for the restoration of rains in Israel.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists





What is Useless Faith?

10 04 2020

Amy Israel 1

Sunrise on the Sea of Galilee       Photo – Amy Wolf

Both Passover and Christian Passion Week culminate in firstfruits. For Jews it is the beginning of the barley harvest. For Christians it the beginning of eternal life and the defeat of death’s power over believers. Yeshua, our Messiah, did not stay in the tomb. He was raised from the dead. He is alive! His resurrection was the absolute vanquishing of Satan’s final trump card. The phrase “useless faith” is self-contradictory, it is an oxymoron. It is no faith at all. There is no more critical foundation of our faith than resurrection from the dead and eternal life with Yehovah God through His Son, Yeshua ben Yehovah. Anything less is totally useless faith. It is no faith at all. We don’t follow Jesus because He was a great teacher or did miracles. We serve Him because He paid the price for our sin with His own blood, death, and resurrection. We will live eternally because He lives!

The Resurrection of the DeadBut tell me this—since we preach that Christ rose from the dead, why are some of you saying there will be no resurrection of the dead? For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either. And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless.And we apostles would all be lying about God—for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave. But that can’t be true if there is no resurrection of the dead. And if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world. But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died.  1 Corinthians 15:12-20 NLT

Hallelujah! Pray for the peace of Jerusalem through Jesus, Prince of Peace: Yeshua Sar Shalom! And pray for rain to fill up the Sea of Galilee this month.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists                 (Read more)





Corona Virus HOPE

24 03 2020

Dry Bones Passover 2020False prophecy, gain-sayers, and media hype all have something in common. It is like bloggers who try to generate clicks. There is an ulterior motive. They want followers, viewers, and readers for their own agendas. This is a particular problem with the present virus pandemic/panic. Today I offer a less apoplectic and less apocalyptic opinion. There is hope in the numbers. What if Trump is right and the W.H.O. is wrong?

It just may be that the terrible numbers in Italy and Europe do not apply to the U.S. Our model seems to hold the same promise as South Korea which has leveled off. Italy has ten times  the deaths (to date) as we do, yet with only a small difference in positive cases. Consider this report from yesterday, March 23.

Israeli Expert: Trump Right, World Health Organization Wrong on Coronavirus Death Rate In the final analysis, mortality rates for coronavirus originally cited by President Donald Trump are going to be proven more accurate than the higher numbers claimed by the World Health Organization, according to an Israeli expert in epidemic modeling.

I know we are all tired of the never ending coverage, but we need to favor hope over panic, faith over fear, and life over death. Of course Satan only came “to steal, kill & destroy;” but Jesus brings life. That is not only eternal life, but life now in the midst of the testing and trials of our earthly existence. Turn to God in these times. Don’t give in to the exaggerated predictions based on exponential formulas. Jesus said He would never leave us or forsake us. Trust Him. Trust Yehovah God and His Holy Spirit. Jesus said:

I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.  John 10:9-10

NOW ABOUT THAT HOPE:

For when God made a promise to Abraham, because He could swear by no one greater, He swore by Himself, saying, “Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you.” And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. For men indeed swear by the greater, and an oath for confirmation is for them an end of all dispute. Thus God, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of promise the immutability of His counsel, confirmed it by an oath, 18 that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. Hebrews 10:13-20

Will your anchor hold? Have faith to trust Him. Hold on to His shalom. And pray for the shalom of Jerusalem, along with prayer for rain in Israel. I am praying for a turning point by Passover and Firstfruits.

Les Lawrence, a Voice of Christian Zionists                   (Read more)





Abraham the Believer

17 06 2019

Talit

As we leave for our 2019 Elisha Vision “Speak to the Dirt” Israel tour, my thoughts turn to Abraham. Most translations of Genesis 15:6 say that he believed in the LORD. However there are several like this from the New Living Translation:

And Abram believed the LORD, and the LORD counted him as righteous because of his faith. Genesis 15:6

This is a better translation, that he believed the LORD (Yehovah). Even though many don’t believe in God, believing in God is a no-brainer.

You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. James 2:19 NLT

So as you continue reading in James 2 you will find that the New Testament leaves out the word “in” for all translations.

And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God.  James 2:23 NLT

That means the New Testament leaders understood that Abraham did not just believe “in” God, he believed God. What a totally transformative meaning. He was a believer in the Messiah! You see, that is the promise that Yehovah made to Abraham. He would have a son who would be the line of ancestry from which the Messiah would come. That is why he was not afraid to offer Isaac. He believed God’s promise!

May we walk in the faith of Abraham and be counted righteous through the promised Messiah. Abraham believed, long before Yeshua appeared on this earth. How much more should we believe, who know the many fulfilled promises evident in the birth, death, and resurrection of Yeshua haMashiach, Jesus the Messiah!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists                  (Read more)





Happy Hanukka

14 12 2017

Dry Bones Happy

It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. John 10:22

Pray for rain and peace for Jerusalem.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists               (Read more)





Glorious Resurrection Day, but Please Stop Using the E word.

13 04 2017

Empty-Tomb-Picture-01

HE’S ALIVE! Christians all over the world will celebrate the resurrection of Yeshua/Jesus this Sunday. It is a most glorious worship of the One who conquered death. We cannot overemphasize the magnitude of that event. We should be giddy with joy. Yet I am grieved over an almost universal blind spot in churches this week. Most will use the name of the pagan goddess of  Babylon freely in their services.

We are instructed: In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. 2 Corinthians 13:1 (see also Deuteronomy 19:15 and Matthew 18:16). So what are you going to do from now on after reading the following four separate Scripture witnesses?

Simple Islam – Excerpts from Chapter 11 – Stop Saying the Names of other gods.

Most God-fearing Christians and Jews completely understand and respect the first commandment to have “no other gods” before Yehovah. Yet, in the Western nations, including America, many have opened up their thinking to other gods in the name of tolerance. This makes me want to ask them: “What part of ‘no other gods’ don’t you understand?”

It is only recently that I have found a more specific prohibition on the subject. You may have noticed by now that I am reluctant to say or write the name of the god of Islam. It is because the Bible prohibits it! What if we in America or at least believers were to practice the following four scriptures? Notice how the Holy Spirit progressively adds another component to the prohibition with each verse.

Here is the prohibition.

And in all that I have said to you, be circumspect and make no mention of the name of other gods, nor let it be heard from your mouth. (Exodus 23:13).

Then Joshua adds three more conditions.

You shall not make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause anyone to swear by them; you shall not serve them nor bow down to them, but you shall hold fast to Yehovah your God, as you have done to this day. (Joshua 23:7).

The way a person converts to Islam is by standing in a public place and swearing allegiance three times to the god of Islam and his messenger, Muhammad. The next step is to serve that god and bow down to it. You have seen many examples of Muslims doing that even in public five times a day. I am ashamed to say that in a widely publicized picture, President Obama, who professes Christianity, bowed down 90 degrees from the waist to the King of Saudi Arabia, who is the religious custodian/keeper of Mecca.

The third scripture introduces another aspect, blood, which especially applies to radical Islamists. This blood thirsty death cult delights in the shedding of blood in the name of their god. Hence, we hear the perverse oath proclaimed by every suicide bomber before detonation, that his god is the greatest.

Their sorrows shall be multiplied who hasten after another god; Their drink offerings of blood I will not offer, nor take up their names on my lips. (Psalm 16:4).

Fourth, Hosea adds a final point. Not only will we not speak their names, but eventually their names will not even be remembered.

For I will take from her mouth the names of the Baals, and they shall be remembered by their name no more. (Hosea 2:17).

Psalm 83:4 highlights an amazing contrast: They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more.”  Satan does not have an original creative thought in his head. He can only twist and pervert what God says or does. So his plan to remove the remembrance of Israel is nothing more than a copycat idea from the truth that the devil and all his false gods face in eternity.

Now therefore, fear Yehovah, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River and in Egypt. Serve Yehovah! (Joshua 24:14)

We have already been lulled into complacency by using the name of the top pagan goddess, called Ishtar in Babylon and known by other names in other cultures. Christians use her name in place of Resurrection Day, calling it by her name, Easter, which is a derivative of the Babylonian “queen of heaven”. (More detail at this link) To top off the deception, some King James Bible translations even miss-translate Acts 12:4 using the name of the goddess instead of Passover, which is the real word in the Greek (Pesach). Most translations have corrected this error, but it is still used almost universally by Christians. Is it that important to correct this error? I am convinced that it is critical, along with using God’s personal name, Yehovah. Only Satan and Allah benefit from our ignorance.

(Note: I have used the banned names in my teaching, much as the Bible does. The prohibition regards using other gods’ names in daily life.)

Disclaimer: This is not meant to condemn or to be taken legalistically. I am just sounding a shofar to alert you to these verses. With all the commercial use of the E-word it is very hard to avoid it. It is so ingrained in our culture that it is easy to slip up and say it. My point is that it is time to pivot from our earlier times of ignorance and seek to align our everyday behavior with God’s revealed purpose. Please Stop Using the E word.

Let’s celebrate the resurrection of the Lamb of Yehovah God with all our might! Praise the name of Jesus/Yeshua! HE IS ALIVE!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists             (Read more)

 





You Must Accept Christendom?

9 01 2017

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Let me draw a fine point. Must a Jew accept Christendom, or is it enough to accept Jesus/Yeshua as the Messiah of Israel? Growing numbers of Israelis are recognizing Yeshua as the Messiah and Son of God. Do they also have to accept all the traditions of ecclesiastical church history? I think not. Here is an excerpt from my latest book that explains my simple point. (The Hebrew God Who Has No Name – Chapter 8)

Restoration Timing?

Even the Second Coming, the climactic event of history, requires this timing. The Messiah clearly remains in Heaven until a certain time … and then He comes! He comes at the time of restoration of everything the holy prophets have said. Jesus cannot return until Yehovah’s Name is restored  according to Peter’s sermon in Acts 3.

that He may send Jesus Christ, who was preached to you before, whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began. Acts 3:20-21

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! See! Your house is left to you desolate; for I say to you, you shall see Me no more till you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of Yehovah!’”  Matthew 23:37-39

Second Coming?

There is no question that the Second Coming is the crowning event of human history. We are close to the Messiah’s entrance. There is a classic joke about the Messiah finally appearing in Jerusalem and the Mayor goes out to meet Him. The Mayor says: “Welcome to Jerusalem. We have waited for you for so long, but I just have one question. Is this your first or second visit?”

The viewpoint of Jews continues to be a very serious issue. What do they think about the Messiah? How do they consider the Christian hope? Truly, a rapidly growing anticipation of the Messiah exists in Israel. Leading rabbis speak out that His coming is close. As the hope for a peace deal dies, more Israeli’s are considering their faith seriously, even if they are not religious. On a 2007 visit to Israel, I heard two prominent Israeli speakers touch the subject. One was in Jerusalem and one was in the Golan. Both made similar statements that shocked me by their public candor and position taken. Neither  man had acknowledged Jesus as the Messiah, but both believed in the Messiah, the Son of David. They both said that “when He comes, we will look at His hands and feet; and then we will all rejoice together”. The Golan speaker spoke those exact words to our Christian tour group. He flatly stated that the Holy Spirit (Ruach ha Kodesh) speaks to him in his heart. He said that he didn’t know “about those scholars down in Jerusalem with their stacks of books, but the Messiah is coming and I will look at His hands and feet, and then we will all dance together.”

When Will Jews See Jesus?

One of the most severe judgments of history was the removal of Israel from their land after rejecting the Messiah. Paul describes it as “the severity of God” in Romans 11:22. That event opened the way for the nations to be saved; but what about Israel? When will they see the Messiah?

What if I told you that it hinges on Jews changing one of their most common Scripture prayers? It is located in their Passover hymn (known to Jews as the Hallel – Psalms 113-118).

Blessed is he who comes in the name of Yehovah! We have blessed you from the house of Yehovah. Psalm 118:26

The problem is that the Jews do not pronounce the Name. They replace the word Yehovah with the word Lord, or in Hebrew; Adonai. Therefore, I submit that part of the scales falling off the eyes of the Jewish people definitely involves the revelation of the restoration and use of Yehovah’s Name!  Jesus even declared this directly in the Gospels. Although it is mistranslated LORD in our English Bibles, the Name of Yehovah was quoted by Yeshua Himself directly from Psalm 118:26.

Jesus said: for I say to you, you shall see Me no more till you say, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of Yehovah! Matthew 23:39

We know He said Yehovah, because this was a direct quote. Psalm 118 has the Name, Yehovah, no less than 28 times in the Hebrew text! So, does that really mean the Jews will begin using His Name again? Yes!

Note, that Jews will say: “Blessed is He” who comes in Yehovah’s Name. Jesus did that; and the Jews of His day did not say blessed is He, but killed Him for “blasphemy” for claiming the Name of Yehovah. We also may be rejected for speaking the Name, but proclaim it we must, as we stand with Israel and the Jewish people as they begin to profess: “Blessed is He who comes in the Name of Yehovah!”

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (Read more)

(New explanation for why I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah. Here is a link to the best simple explanation I know, from my friend, Keith Johnson.)

 

 





Is the End Near?

14 12 2016

 

biblepic-dollywood-11-2016Miracle Message: This amazing picture is from Dollywood in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Terrible forest fires burned thousands of acres in the Southeast with over 14 deaths. At about the same time many major fires burned throughout Israel. In both cases, arson was a cause.

The miracle message is in the photo above. Just one page from the Bible was found near Dollywood burned around the edges, leaving these verses readable.

Joel 1:15
The day of the LORD is near, the day when destruction comes from the Almighty. How terrible that day will be!

Joel 1:19
To you, LORD, I call, for fire has devoured the pastures in the wilderness and flames have burned up all the trees of the field.

Joel 1:20
Even the beasts of the field pant for you because the water brooks are dried up,
and fire has devoured the pastures of the wilderness.

Joel 2:1
Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.

Here is the last verse again in the New Living Translation:

Sound the alarm in Jerusalem! Raise the battle cry on my holy mountain! Let everyone tremble in fear because the day of Yehovah is upon us. Joel 2:1

Jesus prophesied many signs would precede the coming of the Messiah. We are seeing such on almost a daily basis. The burned Bible page indicates that the day of God’s judgements are now here. The end is not yet, but is very close. We are fast approaching the end of days and the glorious kingdom of Messiah Jesus, Yeshua ben Yehovah, Jesus the Son of God.

Come quickly, Lord Jesus! Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (Read more)

(New explanation for why I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah. Here is a link to the best simple explanation I know, from my friend, Keith Johnson.)

 





Why This is the Last Generation

28 11 2016

Generation LASTMany who will read my prophetic commentary will consider this for the first time. There are multiple possible scenarios leading to the conclusion that we are living in the last generation of time as we know it. Some scenarios are clearly man-made events. Many believe that the planet’s population will reach a breaking point. Others cite climate change or disease or a wayward comet causing the end of the world. And, of course, world war is always a threat.

However, I offer two Bible prophesies which indicate the last generation in clear terms, one each from the Old and New Testaments. Please accept my submission for your prayerful consideration. If you agree with me, it will affect not only your world view, but your perspective on eternity.

So, first let me stipulate that I believe the Bible and take it literally when possible. Therefore, the two perspectives are  based not on the reasoning of man, but on the truth of Scriptural revelation. In this post I can only state my case. For an in-depth analysis read my book Generation LAST.

#1. The “Generation Last.” Psalm 102 is a prophecy that only made sense after 1945. The first ten verses are an exact graphic picture of the Holocaust of WW II. Verse 13 is the turning point where God says the set time to favor Zion has come. History bears witness to the fact, with modern Israel appearing in 1948. God turned the page from judgement of the Jewish people, to favor and restoration. Then comes the surprising revelation of verse 18. This is the confirmation verse of the timing of the earlier passage. Notice that the English translation is quite nebulous.

This will be written for the generation to come, that a people yet to be created may praise the LORD. Psalm 102:18

Some translations say “a future generation.” However, the Hebrew phrase used is narrowly specific: “dor acharon.” It literally means “the generation last.” You can see for yourself on the link to the verse (above). Just look at the Hebrew definition.

This Psalm makes perfect sense as a prophecy, with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight of recent history. The Psalm had a moderate value for comfort over the millennia, but blossomed into fulfillment in our generation…the last generation!

#2 This generation will not pass away. Matthew 24, Luke 21 and Mark 13 record what scholars call the Olivet Discourse, the teaching of Jesus on the Mount of Olives. Jesus is answering the most burning question of the ages: “When are you coming back?” When you pour over these chapters you will find that none of the signs He gives are time specific, except one. Most of His signs appear in every generation to some degree. What is the only one that is tied to time? It is His prophecy about Jerusalem. Jesus prophesied  both the destruction of Jerusalem (fulfilled in 70 AD), and the restoration of Jerusalem (fulfilled in June, 1967). Once again we have the benefit of being on the other side of fulfilled prophecy. The clincher is in Luke 21. First He speaks of the city’s destruction and the scattering of the Jews to all nations, leaving Jerusalem in the hands of the Gentiles. until their time to rule the city is finished.

And they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led away captive into all nations. And Jerusalem will be trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. Luke 21:24

But then, Jesus speaks of the fig tree as a symbol of Israel’s restoration. Those who “see” these things happening, including the specific return of Jerusalem to Israeli sovereignty, will be alive for the Messiah’s appearance! The time for Gentile rule of Jerusalem is done.

So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all things take place. Luke 21:31-32

This was fulfilled in our generation! It is now history. The most important question remaining is: “Are you ready?” Scholars disagree on the length of a generation, but I think it is one hundred years. If so, He could come very soon. I am so excited and filled with anticipation of all the events falling into place. What a great honor that we are blessed to live in this day.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (Read more)

Generation LAST is available here on Amazon for $10.00





I Voted

7 11 2016

I Voted With Stars Clipart

I prayed. 

I studied.

I prayed.

I listened.

I prayed.

I debated.

I prayed.

And then, I voted.

I rejoice that Yehovah God is sovereign, and that He is a good, good Father. But, I am not a fatalist. Christians have a responsibility. This is because God created us with the ability to respond. We are accountable to Him for our response.

Fatalism says God does everything and we do not affect the outcome. I beg to differ. My choices directly affect my future. I chose to believe that Jesus is the promised Messiah and God has counted it to me for righteousness. I have made myriads of bad choices and suffered the consequences. My vote is not the end of the world, but at the end of the world I want my choices to line up with God’s will.

Therefore, after due diligence, I voted. Please vote tomorrow if you have not yet voted. The result is certainly in God’s hands, but He expects us to do our part. We will all experience the consequences together.

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. Galatians 6:7

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists         (Read more)

 





Native American Historic Forgiveness

25 10 2016

all-tribes“TODAY MAY GO DOWN AS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT IN AMERICAN HISTORY.” An extraordinary event happened in Washington, DC last Friday while no one was watching. Representatives of nearly all native American nations gathered for one purpose in prayer led by Chief Dr. Negiel Big Pond. They were there to declare forgiveness to the United States of America for all the  treaties broken by the US. If you don’t know the history, almost every treaty was broken. The US government has a miserable record toward the sovereign Indian nations.

Chiefs and leaders from 1,000 tribes met to simply forgive. The US did not ask for it. Indian leaders initiated it out of Christian love, as a way to remove America from the righteous consequences of broken governmental vows. This is is their statement:

“We, the All Tribes DC Council invite all Tribes and Nations to join us on October 21, 2016 at the Washington Memorial in Washington, DC to release the power of forgiveness and to bring healing and restoration to America.
As indigenous people of this land, we carry a governmental responsibility to bring a Nation back to its ordained purpose. A representation of Nations within a Nation, we believe in an outcome that will yield a bountiful harvest of souls through the power of forgiveness.
This is the first time in the history of America that the First Nations people will lead a National Day of Prayer for the healing of this Great Country. It’s time for us to take our rightful place in the Body of Christ and lead this Great Awakening!” All Tribes DC

All Tribes D.C. National Day of Prayer for the First Nations • Oct. 21, 2016 Here is a listing of the tribes. http://www.alltribesdc.org/

Facebook videos of the event: https://www.facebook.com/alltribesdc/ 

NATIVE AMERICAN INDIAN TRIBES FORGIVING U.S.A. FOR EVERY BROKEN TREATY  (a full report from Rick Joyner)

TODAY MAY GO DOWN AS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT IN AMERICAN HISTORY. Very few may even know that anything special happened. Jesus even said that the kingdom came “without observation,” or unnoticed. Some of the greatest things happen that way, and only a very few who have their eyes open, and are looking in the right direction, see them. So what is happening today that is so special?

One Thousand North American Indian Tribes from the U.S. and Canada are sponsoring a special ceremony on the Mall in Washington to forgive the U.S. Government for all of its broken treaties. In Scripture, breaking a vow or treaty brings a curse on the land, and the U.S. Government broke every treaty it made with the Native American Tribes. Chief Negiel Bigpond, the primary coordinator for this event, told me that they were going to forgive the U.S. whether we asked for it or not, simply because they do not want our country to suffer the consequences of this any longer. This is one of the most noble acts of true Christian charity I have ever heard of by any people group.

Have we suffered because of the curse that comes when we break an agreement? We have suffered profoundly, and virtually every major crisis America is facing right now is a reflection of the crisis on that the Native Americans have endured on the reservations that were directly caused by the broken treaties. A couple of years ago Chief Bigpond shared about a ten minute address with a room full of high impact leaders and some world class thinkers, which he titled, “Welcome to the Reservation.” He connected all of the crises we had been discussing to what they faced on the reservations, and when he finished it shut down the meeting as no one else there wanted to speak after such a profound revelation, besides, we had possibly the most important answer to the crises.
This is very real. National injustices are a major issue we’re facing now whether we want to or not, and this is a big one. We will continue on the road to oblivion if we do not consequences of injustices that were sometimes done generations ago, but are still a festering, infected would that is poisoning the whole body.
I’ve known Negiel for many years, and I’ve never seen him ever display a victim mentality, or bitterness. I call him “the happiest Indian” and I think he may be. He’s a transcendent leader and thinker of such stature possibly because he does not waste his time on pettiness, and he so easily forgives. I once asked Chief Bigpond if he was offended by the Washington Redskins name, and his reply was, “Only when they play bad.” One thousand tribes are going to forgive us today simply because they don’t want us to suffer for wrongs done to them. Have you ever heard of anything so noble? How would our world change if we all started to think like that? ~ Rick Joyner

“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,” Matthew 5:44

“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you.” Matthew 6:14

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists         (Read more)

 





Dates and Numbers from God?

20 10 2016

promised-landChristians are always trying to guess when Jesus is coming. Even Jews are trying to figure when the Messiah comes. Most agree that it is soon. But today I want to share a few historical dates that project profound events for 2017 and 5777, the Jewish year.

500 years ago Martin Luther started the Protestant Reformation in 1517. He was originally convinced that God was favoring and restoring the Jews. (Later, when they did not convert to Christianity, he was so disappointed that he became a serious anti-Semite, (but that is another story).

150 years ago the Jews of Austria and Hungary were emancipated signalling a change that would spread around the world.

100 years ago Great Britain set in motion the legal rebirth of the State of Israel with the Balfour Declaration of 1917.

50 years ago Israel regained sovereignty over the Old City of  Jerusalem during the Six Day War of 1967, for the first time since 70 AD.

What about 2017? So we have 1517, 1867, 1917, and 1967. What do you think about 2017? Is it reasonable to guess that Yehovah may be about to do something big for Israel? We just observed the start of 5777 in the Jewish calendar. Some say this is a year of Jubilee. I can’t confirm that, but each of the 50 year points we have mentioned  have surely made history.

The United Muslim Nations (sometimes called the UN) is threatening to declare a Palestinian state without Israel’s agreement. Will God allow it? I don’t think so. The nations have already divided the land in fulfillment of prophecy. Now is the time for Israel to annex Judea and Samaria (West Bank).

“For behold, in those days and at that time, When I bring back the captives of Judah and Jerusalem, I will also gather all nations, and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; and I will enter into judgment with them there on account of My people, My heritage Israel, Whom they have scattered among the nations; they have also divided up My land.” (signed, Yehovah!) Joel 2:1-2

I leave you with an eight minute video from Lance Wallnau from Israel. He talks with humor about the US election and the Jewish year 5777 with Hebrew meanings behind the numbers. Just follow this link and click on the arrow on the video.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists         (Read More)

(New explanation for why I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah. Here is a link to the best simple explanation I know, from my friend, Keith Johnson.)