TRUMP RALLY'S ISRAEL YET AGAIN! Praise the Lord!

Dear friends and readers,

Yesterday was a great day for truth. A great day for God's people Israel and a great day to thank a President who keeps his word!

BREAKING NEWS: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced an official reversal of long standing U.S. foreign policy toward Israel.

The United States will no longer condemn Israeli settlements in Judea and Samaria--the West Bank. I am sure I don't have to remind my readers of the fact that God gave permanent ownership to Israel of lands far far greater in size than the current State of Israel. And that permanent land grant from " ON HIGH" includes the ancient areas of the West Bank which were originally known as Judea and Samaria.

Some history: Going back to the Carter administration of 1978, it was concluded and categorically stated in U.S. foreign policy that Israeli settlements in these areas were inherently illegal and a violation of International law. Subsequent administrations believed that unrestrained settlement building by Israel were an obstacle to peace and to establishing a two state solution (which by the way, called for dividing up the current State of Israel into two States---one for Israel and one for the Palestinians).

However in 1981, President Reagan disagreed with that conclusion, and said that he did not believe that Israeli settlements were illegal. After that, came George H.W. Bush, Clinton and then George Bush jr. During the 8 years of President Bush, he made promises regarding moving the U.S. Embassy but failed to act. Then comes the 8 years of President Obama's administration which reversed course yet again. Declaring through Secretary of State John Kerry, that once again U.S. foreign policy would not recognize  any Israeli settlements in the West Bank as being legal under International law.

It's no wonder Israelis on the streets of Jerusalem have frequently been bewildered about whether or not "Uncle Sam" was really their friend!

As you me recall when President Trump was running for office, one of his premier goals and promises was to move the United States Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. But this was not simply a matter of moving a building or a flag. No, much bigger than that because if he moved it, the world would know that the most powerful nation of earth was recognizing JERUSALEM as Israel's eternal capital.

How big a deal is that? Several U.S. Presidents promised to do this but came and went without keeping their word. On a personal basis, I made a decision to leave the Republican Party when George Bush Jr. also failed to keep his word. ENOUGH WAS ENOUGH!

So you can just imagine how pleased I was when the newly elected President Donald Trump actually did keep his word and moved the Embassy. FOR ME this was huge because regardless of what else may happen in the world, Biblically, Israel's security is of paramount importance.

Then on top of that, the President also recognized the Golan Heights as a possession of Israel which insures to a very large extent, a huge safety zone on Israel's northern boarder. Happy, Happy!

So when the news broke this week that the Trump Administration was overturning Obama's failed policy and will once again give a nod of approval for Israel to continue building settlements in the West Bank, it was a massive win-win situation.

But to be clear: What the United States is really doing is "getting out of the way" to allow Israeli courts to decide the fate of the West Bank. But this tacit U.S. approval is worth mountains of political gold on the worldwide stage! Also although I am certain this decision is far from popular with the Palestinian leadership, Trump is also keeping his word in that he believes that the resolution of a two state solution should be resolved between Israel and the Palestinians without interference from outside sources.

While only the Lord Himself knows what is in the immediate future for Israel, as far as I am concerned this was a major political win for Israel.

Thank you President Trump for keeping your word.

God bless you all today,
Pastor Rance.

ANTINATIONALISM---er, say what?

Dear friends and readers,

ANTINATIONALISM---what in the world is that?

Things used to be SOOO simple. Ah, for the long gone good ole days in which a BLACK cow was simply a black cow and a WHITE cow was simply---a white cow! Not now...oh no, because including their colors in your speech is probably RACIST!  Now it is political correct to say that both cows are merely bovine of a differing ethnicity.

In fact we should probably make all cows an extinct species anyway because their constant flatulations are killing the ozone layer. Besides, we can't eat them anymore because red meat is bad for humans although we have too many people in the world anyway so it only makes sense for people eat more meat and stop having babies.

I knew the world was headed to catastrophe when way back in the 70's, garbage collectors suddenly became "SANITATION ENGINEERS"! Policemen like myself were "PIGS" and welfare in L.A. County began believing that single welfare mothers were somehow suffering unspeakable societal indignity without a (taxpayer funded) color T.V.

Now comes the relatively "NEW SPEAK" that seems to grow daily. You know, I never realized until lately that I am in some kind of societal sin because my mother had the audacity to create me as a WHITE human being. Had no way of knowing that I am really---at the base of things, a WHITE SUPREMACIST. Was clueless that I really am prejudiced against non white people until they began telling me so. Had zero knowledge of how much I am guilty of CLASSISM and that I am probably an authoritarian personality, steeped in scientific racism and interiorized religion.

I mean really, who would have thunk it?

And was I surprised when the talking heads on T.V. finally enlightened me that most if not all of my friends are members of an egalitarian society, steeped in cognitive dissonance and that our mutual contemporary theories and empirical findings are simply not politically correct. That because we are married... man to woman, it really means that we are homophobic, transphobic, biphobic and guilty of gross heterosexism.

Some of us are guilty of benevolent prejudice, others of ambivalent prejudice and nearly all most certainly of hostile prejudice. Even though most of us have never met a  bisexual person or a gay, lesbian or transgender individual, and even in cases where we have, we invite them into our churches with respect---nonetheless, we are ALL definitely guilty of sexual prejudice and because of that we are all limitationally challenged!

We are somehow guilty of reverse discrimination, social influence, linguistic discrimination, sexism because we all hate or somehow disrespect women. And boy oh boy what they must think of me because I disrespect my wife by opening a car door for her.

Oh and did you know that we are ALL Islamophobic? Golly I sure wish I had known that before my several trips to the Middle East. It would have been so much easier to simply hate everybody rather than having the great times that I did have with everyone I met.

And how could I have been so ignorant as to refer to some people as "INDIANS" even though my family tradition says that I have that blood also. (But then I can't prove it so I don't want to be confused with Elizabeth Warren). But just in case it might be true, you had better begin calling me a "FIRST NATION" individual---or else! HRUUUUMPH!

But no matter what, do not call me a MAN because I might in reality be a WOMAN.  Although I sure didn't notice that the last time I was in the shower (-:

So I can guess that many if not most of you will not recognize the term "Antinationalism"???

Sounds kind of like folks who decry America as a Nation and want to burn the flag and tear down the whole shebang, doesn't it?

NOT SO!

Actually this is very creepy... but the next big thing on the horizon. "ANTINATIONALISM" , sometimes spelled anti-nationalism, is a philosophy or belief system that teaches that life is NOT an amazing gift or miracle from God. No No, life is really something that is harmful to the planet or bad. These are the folks we read about in scripture who worship the creation rather than the CREATOR!

They think that human existence is utterly pointless. Well, probably except for them as individuals because after all---someone has to "tell all the rest of us the truth"! Also you should know that much of this garbage is originating in the LGBTQ+PEDOPHILE movement. That's not to say that all people who choose an alternative lifestyle are bad or anti life. Because that is not case.

Do you think that this is far fetched? My answerer to that is---have you listened lately to what some of this years Presidential contenders are saying? The message is clear; Climate change and global warming bad! Having more children---very bad! And how about some of the current crop of Congress women? "STOP HAVING BABIES"!! GET MORE ABORTIONS! WOMENS RIGHT TO CHOOSE!

Which by the way, I agree with right to choose. Even the Bible says so but let's look at what it really says!

Deuteronomy 30:19 (GOD DOES GIVE US CHOICE), but He also gives direction ABOUT CHOICE!
"I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I (GOD) have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; Therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may LIVE"!

Finally I will leave you with John 10:10. Remembering always who it is that wants death and who it is that wants life. "The thief (in this case satan) does not come except to steal and to kill, and to destroy. I (JESUS SPEAKING) have come that they may have life. And that they may have it more abundantly"!

SUGGESTION; Regardless of which side of the political isle a politician may sit, listen and peal away the layers about what their message and plans actually are for America and for YOU! And for your family.

DON'T BE FOOLED!

God bless,
Pastor Rance.

PROPHECY-TRUMP WINS A SECOND 4 YEARS!!! Can it be true?

WHAT IF THE TRUMP PROPHECIES ARE TRUE?

Dear friends and readers,

Pastor Rance here. There are a few authors that I follow because they have got their act together and are able to discuss things like Biblical (and non Biblical) prophecy while maintaining their objectivity. Dr. Michael Brown is one of those and also a very well known author and columnist with a large, respected ministry. Many of his articles appear at https//townhall.com

I highly encourage my readers to add Dr. Brown to your list for reading and for your research library. I have obtained permission from Dr. Browns ministry to reprint his most excellent article "WHAT IF THE TRUMP PROPHECIES ARE TRUE"?

ENJOY!

In a recent article, Christian journalist Stephen Strang cited prophecies delivered in 2007 by the late Kim Clement, which pointed to Donald Trump being a two-term president. Are these true prophecies? And if so, how should they influence our voting?

Some, of course, do not believe there is such a thing as a prophecy at all, especially in our day. Others will dispute the accuracy of Clement’s prophecies, thereby discrediting their practical application. But there are others who do believe that prophetic words were given to Christian leaders and believers in recent years, pointing positively to the Trump presidency.

If so, what are we to make of this, especially those of us who identify as Christian? Does a prophetic word about the future dictate how we vote (or live) today?

There is, of course, a lively debate among Christians regarding support of President Trump. And this debate has nothing do with the question of alleged prophecies.

Some writers, like Strang, who is a colleague of mine and a respected journalist, believe that it is essential that Christians support Trump in 2020. The title of his forthcoming book says it all: God, Trump, and the 2020 Election: Why He Must Win and What's at Stake for Christians if He Loses.

Others, like evangelical Never Trumper Ben Howe, have argued that the same evangelicals who shouted “Character counts” during the Bill Clinton days have looked the other way during the Donald Trump days. (For my perspective, see here.)

These debates will surely intensify in the coming months as we work our way through the impeachment hearings into the 2020 elections. But these are debates we need to have as we prayerfully discuss what is best for our nation. The stakes are very high.

But what about the prophecies? How do they factor in?

For argument’s sake, let’s say that: 1) there is such a thing as prophecy; 2) God is giving His people prophecies to this day; and 3) there are prophecies indicating that Donald Trump will serve two terms.

Does this mean that true believers should vote for Trump to help fulfill prophecy? Does this mean that we should not analyze things pragmatically, weighing the pros and cons of a Trump second term, since the Lord has already spoken?

My answer to both questions is a clear and categorical “no.”

But it’s not because I have a problem with the idea of contemporary prophecy. To the contrary, I believe God is still speaking today – not adding to the Bible, God forbid, but rather giving specific information for specific situations. And I believe it’s very possible that the Trump presidency was predicted. (See, for example, here and here.)

At the same time, I believe we can get into serious error when we make decisions today based on alleged prophecies about tomorrow.

President Bush was sometimes criticized for this (rightly or wrongly) when he allegedly made decisions about invading Iraq based on biblical prophecies. As Andrew Brown wrote in 2009, it is claimed that, “George W Bush attempted to sell the invasion of Iraqto Jacques Chirac using biblical prophecy.”

This leads Brown to conclude, “Tricky stuff, the word of the lord” (his lack of capitalization).

In context, Brown was referring to using ancient prophecies, recorded in the Bible more than 2,500 years ago, to influence policy decisions today. In that case, it can indeed be tricky business. How much trickier can it be, then, to use contemporary prophecies, whose reliability must be scrutinized, to influence our personal decision making?

When it comes to biblical prophecies, I do believe that the modern State of Israel is a partial fulfillment of ancient promises given by God. And I absolutely stand with Israel today, for many different reasons.

At the same time, I believe that Israel must be held accountable for her actions like every other nation on the planet.

As to biblical prophecies warning about the end of the world, it’s clear that these have not yet come to pass. As for books and movies predicting the end of the world at a certain point in history – based on these biblical prophecies – none have been accurate so far. To quote Brown again, interpreting the word of the Lord can be “tricky stuff.”

All the more does this apply to contemporary Christian prophecies, which do not have the weight of Scripture behind them.

“But,” you say, “what if there is strong evidence that the prophecies are accurate? What if the same prophecies that predicted Trump’s first term also predict his second term? What then?”

The answer is simple: If true, they will come to pass with or without our vote.

As for how we vote, we make our decisions based on policies and positions, not prophecies.

That means that, when it comes to 2020, if it is Trump vs. a radical leftist, I will cast my vote for Trump, not because of prophecy, but because of principle.

And so, my vote will not be intended to help bring a prophecy to fulfillment. It will simply be a vote.

And if Trump is reelected in accordance with these prophecies, that will simply mean that God foreknew the results.

Simple.

HOPE that NEVER fails!

Dear friends and readers,

In a world gone mad, where do we find our hope?

Most of the articles I write are either Biblically prophetic in nature, warnings of some kind about the way the church/world is headed---and once in a while I write something humorous.

But today, I simply want to share my heart and hopefully give some reminder of HOPE!

We live in a modern world that is being ripped apart from everything that we knew just a few decades ago. And yes, there have always been wars and earthquakes and floods, fires and violence. But what we are witnessing today vastly surpasses anything I have seen in my 3/4 of a century of life on this planet. We as Christians "kind of expect" these things by those "OTHER GUYS" in weird foreign countries---you know--somewhere else?  But here in the good ole U.S. of A.? NEVER!  I personally have never witnessed so much bias, ridiculous statements, extremism, obvious lies and malignant hatred that we now have coming to us every single night on the evening news.

Lots of us believe that the things happening today are signs of the very end times. Frankly I do myself. But also frankly there is ample evidence from the first century that the saints of those days fully hoped and expected the Lord to return in their own generation. After all, what could have been more terrifying and dangerous than life as a believer in a thoroughly pagan, violent Roman Empire?

BUT there is a huge difference between then and now and I believe that we do have more---far more evidence pointing to the Lords soon return than any other generation during the past 2000 years.

And in these things we CAN AND SHOULD find our hope!

First on my hit parade is that we are the only generation since the cross that saw (Well, us oldies saw---but history saw for the rest of you young folk) ---ISREAL BECOMING A NATION ONCE AGAIN ON MAY, 14, 1948! Prophesied many times over in the Bible. And it happened exactly as prophesied---to the inth degree!

This is not an article specifically about fulfilled prophecy so I will not list what I have explained before in article after published article. But many prophecies were exactly fulfilled as were literally dozens having to do with the scattered remnants of the Jewish people, now returning to their homeland. Also well over 100 prophecies at the first coming of Christ to this earth (NOTE:--some scholars put those as high as 300). I don't because some of what is claimed to be prophecy for that event, is pretty difficult to plainly see but the fact remains that over 100 were in fact fulfilled).

And we can see clearly, events unfolding that could indicate that world changing events prophesied in the Bible well over 3000 years ago, may well be on the immediate horizon.

All of these things give us hope for our own futures as believers. That, coupled with specific scripture promising the return of the Lord is ALL ABOUT HOPE!

So, as you turn on your T.V. tonight and witness political rage consuming the very air that we breath, remember that this to will pass. What is on the "OTHER SIDE" for us has zero politics involved. Zero terrorism. Zero bad health, Zero sorrow and Zero death.

Can you imagine?

God bless,
Pastor Rance.
Titus 2:13 "LOOKING FOR THE BLESSED HOPE AND GLORIOUS APPEARING OF OUR GREAT GOD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST"!

BEWARE---FALSE TEACHERS ABOUND!

Dear friends and readers,

False teachers are springing up every where. And so are accusations that followers of Christ are evil.

Have you noticed the marked increase in all of the following? As in, ever increasing persecution of our faith?

Attacks on the Bible, attacks of Christianity, on morality, truth, sexual purity, Biblical doctrine, and Godly teachers?

And let us not forget that in several countries of the world, not only are we hearing about more and more believers being martyred for their faith but also DETESTABLE forms of antisemitism are once again on the rise.

If you are a traditional Christian--by that I mean one who still believes that the Bible is truly God's word. And you realize that our faith is based upon a Hebraic, Christian ethic, Still believe in traditional family values with one man married to one woman and raising their children in the ways of the Lord. If you still value the Ten Commandments and still believe that our Lord is coming back for us???

If all of that is the case then surely you have noticed a marked rise in false doctrine peddled for the sake of personal fame and money. False teachers who are deceiving multitudes of otherwise sincere people---many of whom have one GREAT BIG thing in common!

They have long since begun to rely on others to TELL THEM what the Bible says, rather than reading it for themselves! For people who do that, there are no checks and balances. "A fool and his money are easily parted"(NOTE--That is often stated as an exact quote but the idea originates from Proverbs 21:20 "A foolish man squanders" ---his wealth).

 So are a fool and his faith soon parted when the Bible is not personally read!

At what point did we as believers become evil bigots? Hate mongers?And why? Because we are still teaching and discussing the very same Bible that goes back to Moses on Mount Sinai. Every single thing that we teach is right out of Gods word but unfortunately GOD HIMSELF has fallen out of favor with the paragons of Political Correctness. In fact, as has been the ever increasing popular trend since the roaring 60's, the stampede to declare God "dead" is at an all time high.

The Ten Commandments have somehow become not only bigoted but RACIST??? Would someone please explain that to me? The Bible itself archaic and false. The Trinity a false doctrine. The Rapture as nothing more than a figment of the imagination and anyone claiming that ONLY WOMEN ARE CAPABLE OF GIVING BIRTH has somehow become anathema to the vast throng of a corrupt ultra left wing "WOKE" establishment.

But then some folks also think that this is all new stuff. It isn't! Ever since there has been a satan, he has tried to destroy everything good that our Creator has ever done. In fact all the way back to the year 1605, the Bible as we know it as Christians has been under attack. On November 5th of that year, Jesuit Priests hired a man by the name of Guy Fawkes to assassinate King James of England in an attempt to keep his new English version of the Bible from being published.

Fortunately the attempt failed but various forms of that theme have continued throughout the centuries.

Now insidiously, false teachers are in abundance doing every thing they seemingly can to redirect peoples minds and hearts to fallacious "spiritual" trends that bear little if any resemblance to what the Bible actually says. And since it tickles the ears, people are gobbling it all up at the possible expense of their own salvation. And opening their wallets and purses in staggering amounts to make  possible the rise of MEGA churches. NOTE: Not all huge churches are bad but the problem is that ever increasingly people cannot seem to discern the difference between a Bible based work of God---and a program based work of man.

I have written article after article about the dangers of false teachers but few seem to listen or take heed to this Biblical warning.

We are told clearly that false teachers will arise. AND HERE THEY ARE!!!

We are warned!!! False Prophets (Matthew 7:15), False christs and false signs and wonders (Matthew 24:24), false brethren (2 Corinthians 11:26), Savage wolves among the sheep (Acts 20:29),  and false teachers?? At least 50 mentions in scripture of false teachers or teachings.

Not only are false teachers dangerous to their students but also--in the long run to themselves. James 3:1  "My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgement"! When I teach my congregation or my readers, I am constantly checking my Bible to insure that what I am saying is not misquoted in the slightest way. Why? Because that would be dangerous for me. AND YOU!

Ephesians 4:11 tells us that the Lord Himself "Gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers"! So how do we know a true teacher from a false one? Ephesians 4 goes on to tell us because a Godly pastor and teacher should always EQUIP THE SAINTS FOR THE WORK OF MINISTRY, FOR EDIFYING OF THE BODY OF CHRIST, till we ALL come to the unity of the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God!

How do we know true from false? IF IT IS NOT ALL ABOUT JESUS---it is probably false!

We are warned further in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; And they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables"!

The definition of a "FABLE" is  "A fictitious story, meant to teach a moral lesson but it is a myth, a legend or a falsehood"!

2 Peter 2:15 goes on to give us instruction by telling us the marks of a false teacher; "THEY ARE LIKE BALAAM". "They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness;---These are wells without water, clouds carried by the tempest, for whom IS RESERVED THE BLACKNESS OF DARKNESS FOREVER"!

Further, they speak great and swelling words of emptiness, they pervert Christian liberty, they turn themseleves--and turn away other people from the faith.

Folks this is not funny stuff---it is dangerous stuff. Many people are being mislead today by false teachers. By false doctrine.

The ONLY WAY to know for certain that you are not being deceived is to keep your Bible open on your lap and compare what you are being taught to what the Bible actually says.

That is not being judgmental. That is wisdom. GODLY WISDOM!

God bless you all today,
Pastor Rance.

ONE WORLD RELIGION EMERGING???

Dear friends and readers,

Now a days I am almost constantly amazed at the MANY sources of absolute false doctrine that are deceiving so many people.

Normally I do not "call out" individuals but in this case I really have no choice but to discuss unpleasant possibilities. I realize that for many Christians the church of Rome is headed rapidly toward becoming the headquarters of a "one word religion" and every single word emanating from the Vatican is automatically suspect.

Personally I don't have time for all that stuff because my job Biblically is to build up the house of Christ--NOT to tear someone else's house down. So while I have grave issues with what the church of Rome is doing---I am not what you would call a Catholic basher because I have several wonderful Catholic friends who I know for sure, love my Lord Jesus Christ every bit as much as I do. And by the way just so you know, I also have very grave issues with several Christian denominations and in particularly those who are not only approving of--but making a mockery of the Bible by ordaining people who are living and practicing lifestyles forbidden by scripture!

Having said that, YES, there are some strange things happening right now and some of the spoken words emanating from Rome are difficult to explain away coming from a Biblical view point---FROM THE POPE himself.

In fact this is one of those times in life that "I WISH DESPERATELY THAT IT AIN'T SO"! But it is!

First the church of Rome seems to be courting every non Christian religion in the name of world peace. Sit around the ole camp fire and sing "Kumbaya"!  Terms like "CHRISLAM" are floating around (Christianity/Islam) like it is a real brotherhood of fellow worshippers. Really the thing to do! Ah but that's not all because it appears that several well known Christian leaders are also signing onto the  "IT'S ALL ONE GOD---ONE WORLD RELIGION" fiasco.

While I firmly believe that every single human being does have a right to choose which god they will serve---the fact remains there is ONLY ONE TRUE GOD and his name is not Allah. Nor is it Buddha, Vishnu, Krishna, Odin or Zeus! The ONE TRUE GOD of the Bible has many Biblical names such as---"YHWH" (Genesis 22). But for all intent and purposes, it really is JESUS CHRIST, as verified by Isaiah 9:6, John 1:1 and Revelation 1:8.

And please know that while Islam and several other religions do have a form of JESUS, when you peel away the layers those jesus figures are NOT the Jesus of the Bible.

Secondly, There is a very important man by the name of Dr. EUGENIO SCALFARI. He is reportedly an atheist and long time friend of Pope Francis who does interviews and is connected with the publication LA REPUBLICA. He claims that the Pope said to him "that once Jesus became incarnate, he was a man, a man of exceptional virtues, but not at all a god"!

??? One would hope that Mr. Scalfari misquoted the Pope because if indeed he uttered the above statement, it flies in the face of established scripture;

1 Timothy 3:16---speaking of JESUS-- "God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Sprit, seen by angels, preached among the gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory".

Also John 1:1---Speaking of the deity of Christ--"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word ---WAS GOD---"!

In fact in the basic Catechism of the Catholic church it states in part that "He (JESUS) became truly man while remaining truly GOD"!

The Pope on other occasions has been heard saying "Hell is not real". So much for several specific Biblical references to hell. So what in the world is going on here?

Or maybe it is all a scam? fake news?

But then there seems to be some discrepancy because on October 9, Vatican representatives of the Holy Father indicate that Dr. Scalfari's interview with the pope represents his OPINION of what was said but may not be exactly what was said in reference to the Divinity of Jesus Christ.

One way or another it is without doubt that this Pope has an agenda veiled in world peace that seems to indicate that he is the prime mover towards a "ONE WORLD RELIGION"!

So some advice for my Catholic friends: The very same advice that I frequently give to my own congregation. "NO MATTER WHAT YOU HEAR ME SAY ABOUT SCRIPTURE---IT IS YOUR DUTY TO CONFIRM MY WORDS WITHIN SCRIPTURE"! So my friends, for your own protection whether you claim the title Catholic or Christian, let the actual words of the Bible be your guide and you will not go wrong.

2 Timothy 3:16 "ALL SCRIPTURE IS GIVEN BY INSPIRATION OF GOD, AND IS PROFITABLE FOR DOCTRINE, FOR REPROOF, FOR CORRECTION, FOR INSTRUCTION IN RIGHTEOUSNESS, THAT THE MAN OF GOD MAY BE COMPLETE, THOROUGHLY EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK"!

God bless,
Pastor Rance.

NO AMERICA IN THE END TIMES??? WHY?

Dear friends and readers,

There is endless speculation about why the Bible does not seem to mention anything about the Greatest nation on earth today THE U.S.A---America in the end times?

I know exactly why and this may be the shortest article I have ever written.

THE RAPTURE OF THE CHURCH---That's why.

1 Thessalonians chapter 4:13-18 ---"FOR THE LORD HIMSELF WILL DESCEND FROM HEAVEN WITH A SHOUT, WITH THE VOICE OF AN ARCHANGEL, AND WITH THE TRUMPET OF GOD. AND THE DEAD IN CHRIST WILL RISE FIRST. THEN WE WHO ARE ALIVE AND REMAIN SHALL BE CAUGHT UP TOGETHER WITH THEM IN THE CLOUDS TO MEET THE LORD IN THE AIR----"!

Nuclear holocaust? NO
Natural disappears? NO.
Electro magnetic pulse weapon? NO.
Alien invasion? Really---let's be serious here? NO!

It will be the Rapture, or the "GREAT CALLING AWAY" that will take  the mighty USA down hill to an immediate third world country status!

The current population of the United States as of this writing (according to the PEW research center) is 327 million people. Our daily birth rate is 10,977 babies (born alive). That is 2.8% of the entire worlds daily birth rate of 285,000 (+) babies born each and every day.

The Pew research center tells us that of the total population in the USA, 71% are followers of Christ. We could argue over whether they are all really serious believers but then, "JUDGE NOT"???

71% of 327 million people means that in an instant, in the merest blink of an eye, approximately 240 (plus) million people will disappear. Leaving behind a totally decimated population, financial meltdown, military, and infrastructure. Of the remaining population many will be the worst of the worst violent criminals. IMMEDIATE RIOTS AND SOCIAL BREAKDOWN WILL ENSUE. Murder, rape, robbery, and general mayhem nationwide!

We don't know when this will happen but we do know for certain that it will someday happen. ZERO DOUBTS!

So imagine a once mighty nation suddenly missing--

President and V. President?
Many members on Congress?
Members of Supreme Court and 3/4 of total Judges?
Joint Chiefs of Staff?
Much of the military and Navy?
Much of both Police and Fire personnel?
School teachers?
Students?
All children under the age of accountability?
All babies?
Doctors?
Nurses?
Ambulance and medical personnel?
Airline pilots?
Bankers?
Stock market brokers?
White collar workers?
Attorneys?
Air traffic controllers?
Plumbers?
Electricians?
Mechanics?
Welders?
Carpenters?
MOST PASTORS?

AND THE LIST GOES ON AND ON!!!

And what is left? Chaos, plus MASSIVE armaments now available to the anti-christ!

THIS IS THE FUTURE OF AMERICA---not to mention millions upon millions of people who are also missing from among nearly 200 other worldwide countries.

Want to know how the anti-christ is finally ushered onto the world stage?

Think about it!

Pastor Rance.

HIGH HOLY DAYS--WHY SHOULD CHRISTIANS CARE?

Dear friends and readers,

The HIGH HOLY DAYS are here!

So why should followers of Christ care about the High Holy Days? (Comment often heard), "I mean after all they are just some Old Testament--dusty old tome writings and WE are after all saved by grace, not the law"! Well, who could possibly argue with that?

However in that argument there are several shades of grey and a fair amount of confusion. Let's take the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) for example. If you ask most Christians about the Ten Commandments you will find a very "hot button" issue. As Christians we become highly incensed because the Commandments are being ripped off the walls of school hallways and the fronts of the nations court houses. All in the name of "POLITICAL CORRECTNESS"! HOW DARE THEY!!!

And most Christians will say that most indubitably, YES, the Ten Commandments still apply to us as followers of Christ. Hruuuumph! Take your filthy Philistine hands off OUR Ten Commandments.

Well---except for the fourth Commandment because after all, we ARE saved by grace and  everybody knows that "Doing no work on the Sabbath and keeping it Holy?" is just so much Jewish legalism. I mean gee whiz, God can't really be serious about THAT.  Who would drive the bus to Disneyland next Saturday for our church youth day?

So does that mean that we also don't need to take literally the Commands to honor our father and mother, refrain from murder, committing adultery, stealing, lying or lusting after our neighbors stuff?

Ok so Pastor Rance, why did you have to bring up all this confusing theology? I mean why make us think about THAT stuff?

SHADES OF GREY and confusion.

And for the record, we most definitely should be outraged about degrading the Ten Commandments and what you personally believe about the fourth Commandment is entirely your business. But can you see my point? It is so easy to "cherry pick" what we want from scripture and ignore what we don't.

Well my friends, the HIGH HOLY DAYS are another example of exactly that. In fairness, for generations long since past many of the "church fathers" taught that we do not need to take seriously the High Holy Days because they have zilch to do with us as followers of Christ.

Of course somehow you do have to explain away why Jesus Himself "secretly" attended the High Holy Day feast of TABERNACLES (John chapter 7) or why Jesus chose 4 of the other Biblical Spring time feast days to EXACTLY accomplish the prophesied events of His death and resurrection. But hey, why split hairs, right?

The truth is that ALL of the seven Biblical feast and days of repentance do very much apply to us as followers of the Lord. Unfortunately over the eons, the richness of these Biblical days has in most part become lost to us but that does not mean they do not have application for us.

So for review, Leviticus 23 Begins with GOD telling Moses "AND THE LORD SPOKE TO MOSES, SAYING, SPEAK TO THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL, AND SAY TO THEM: THE FEASTS OF THE LORD, WHICH YOU SHALL PROCLAIM TO BE HOLY CONVOCATIONS, THESE ARE MY FEASTS"!

Ah yes but God---and Moses were speaking to Israel, not to us as Christians. Fair enough. But if you stand upon that argument, how do you handle the New Testament book of Romans chapter 11 in which the Apostle Paul clearly teaches that it is the root of Israel that supports our faith in Christ? Does that make us Jews? No. Does that lash us to legalism? No. We are in fact saved by grace. But we also cannot explain away why it was that JESUS THE CHRIST OF GOD, chose 4 of the Spring time feasts to EXACTLY fulfill seminal events of His first coming.

Leviticus 23 lists the Sping time feasts as 1). PASSOVER 2). UNLEAVENED BREAD 3). FIRST FRUITS 4). PENTECOST.

FACT: These feast days were decreed by GOD HUNDREDS OF YEARS before Christ walked the earth. Yet He chose to give His life on the cross of Calvary precisely on PASSOVER! He chose to be buried PRECISELY on UNLEAVENED BREAD. He chose to be resurrected from the grave PRECISELY on FIRST FRUITS and 50 days later PRECISELY on PENTECOST came the Holy Spirit to the fledgling church that Jesus founded, (Acts chapter 2).

Coincidence you say? Don't think so!

So, the question is simple; If Jesus chose to fulfill these monumental events of His first coming precisely on feast days that God Himself declared in Leviticus, is there a possibility that Jesus might at some point in future years also choose to fulfill seminal events of His second coming on the last three High Holy Days, each of which (in order) were also decreed in Leviticus as 1). TRUMPETS (ROSH HASHANA). 2). DAY OF ATONEMENT (YOM KIPPUR) 3). TABERNACLES (SUKKOT)?

CAUTION HERE!!!

We know exactly what happened in the past but we cannot know for certain anything about the future. So please, if you are tempted to think that what I am about to SPECULATE ABOUT will happen with 100% assurance---DON'T! But we do have to remember that God NEVER changes and
that also may mean that when it comes to the first and second coming of Christ, God may well follow the exact order we see listed in Leviticus for all 7 Biblical feast days and days of repentance.

If nothing more---EXTREMELY provocative possibilities!

So could that mean that at some future point in time 1). TRUMPETS might equate to the Rapture of the church? 2). DAY OF ATONEMENT equate to the Second Coming? 3). TABERNACLES might equate to the beginning of the millennial reign of Christ upon this earth?

In fairness to other writers and scholars, some folks like to reverse TRUMPETS/RAPTURE with ATONEMENT/RAPTURE. But I don't see that myself but then again I am not God and neither are they. That argument gets into the PRE/MID/POST fiasco so lets not even go there shall we? Only time will tell.

The point is that after reading this, I will have failed miserably if you cannot recognize that that High Holy Days (and in fact all of the seven decreed Biblical days) are in fact extremely significant to both the Jews and to the Gentile followers of Christ.

And I would be remiss by not reminding that the "CHURCH" of Jesus Christ is made up of both Jew and Gentile who have repented sincerely for their sins and placed  their faith in the Jewish Messiah, JESUS!

God bless you all,
Pastor Rance.

DAYS OF LOT ARE UPON US--"Free the nipple" campaign?? Really?

Dear friends and readers.

I guess I should NOT be surprised!!! The days of LOT---Sodom and Gomorrah really are upon us.

I have been coming across some articles that frankly I doubted until doing some research. Did you know that it is now apparently legal in six States for women to walk around in  public completely topless? Yes indeed, and these States include, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Utah and Wyoming. Plus apparently in Colorado it is legal for girls to appear topless in public as young as 11 years old. And no, I did not come of with that name. It is really being advertised as "FREE THE NIPPLE"!

I would imagine that many men out there are applauding and sincerely hope that this becomes a national trend. I am not one of them!

I have ministered in a third world country for many years and among many of the indigenous folk, openly breast feeding in public is no big deal because for them, a woman's breast is merely a God given device with which to feed your children. But, as we all know, for much of the rest of the world, particularly in western nations, the female breast has long since been elevated (or should I say--relegated) to a symbol of ultimate sexuality.

Fortunately the majority of women still maintain and believe in a modicum of respectability and social grace that requires some modesty. I can imagine that more States will follow over a period of time but probably those women who choose to expose themselves will begin doing so at beaches and resorts although having seen some of the recent hollywood event gowns this year, it would seem that the title of this movement "FREE THE NIPPLE" is becoming more and more fashionable.

So whats the deal here?? Apparently this trend was and is being pushed by the LGBTQ+ community with an apparent goal by some to add the letter "P" for PEDOPHILE! That's right folks it is coming our way. The "LETS DO PEDOPHILE" perverts are going after our children with sex on their minds. And I have no doubts whatsoever that those days will eventually come as well. But after all we do have to be "POLITICALLY CORRECT" don't we? I remember well back in the day, when it was announced that garbage collectors would hence forth be known as "SANITARY ENGINEERS"! So don't be surprised when you begin to see the pedophile movement using terms like "MINOR ATTRACTED PERSONS"!

According to the NY POST, Forty Collins, Colorado has been fighting the female topless in public issue for some time in court. Reported also by NBC News, the city decided not to continue this challenge because of outrageous costs of litigation. The decision not to move the court case any further effectively legalizes the topless practice in all of the six States covered by the 10th District Court of Appeals. Which will conceivably empower more and more of a push for the topless phenomenon in many other States over the course of time.

The argument over this issue by proponents seems to be along these lines; Men have breasts also and can walk around virtually anywhere they want with their nipples exposed so why should we women be discriminated against based upon our gender? WOW---OK now, we have the crux of the issue!

EQUALITY OF THE SEXES. Well, even I am for that but being an old fashioned guy, I have always championed for women earning the same as men---equal opportunity in the work force etc. Anything else than that kind of equality is shameful in my opinion. But then---call me silly, there are limits to good old fashioned conservative values that demand modesty in public. Nor can I even imagine the average husband being wild about his wife parading around with her breasts exposed. I mean what do you tell little Johnny or Jane about why mom is letting it all hang out? But then, whoops, I forgot what my last trip to Disneyland was like. Lot's and lot's of eye candy with husbands and kiddies in tow!

I was in Law Enforcement back in the roaring 60's. Woodstock, sexual revolution, free sex, and the ban the bra movement--Under the guise of women's rights. In some of California's largest cities it was popular for a while to have large female rallies, the center of which was a bonfire. The whole idea was to demonstrate female equality by attendees ripping off their blouses and bras and throwing the bras into the fire. Of course the NEXT rally was attended by thousands of more people---evidence of this new and exciting social movements popularity? Frankly I was amazed that these "freedom, equality seeking women" seemed not to notice that the much larger crowds were made up primarily of men coming to "sneak a peak"! Officers like me were there---on duty of course--so I know it really happened---guys actually being bussed in for the event!

So, I guess this new "FREE THE NIPPLE" campaign is nothing new after all. BUT IT IS! Because now apparently whole States are giving in to this lunacy. Not to mention a push to try and force open restrooms for all sexes including in schools. Or allowing men who claim they suddenly like to think of themselves as women, being allowed to compete in  women's sporting everts. Society is breaking down before our very eyes!

I'm sorry but this is WRONG WRONG WRONG. Actually I am not sorry at all because it is just plain WRONG!

But then as stated earlier, I am apparently an official fossil from a much older and far different universe. So in the unlikely event that there are any ladies out there reading this article, who think I am being unfair to their gender by suggesting it is appropriate to keep "the girls" covered up, please know that I also take an extremely dim view of men who walk around with the "cracks" of their bottoms exposed and even more so, for guys who think they need to demonstrate their "MACHO" to prove they are real men. So lady's from a man who does fully appreciate the feminine gender, please know that for many us, we think that a woman is far more attractive while fully clothed than one who is walking around "butt naked"! After all---where is the mystery in that?

Lastly, all of this new sexual abandon---at least for me and coming from a Biblical perspective, only reenforces my belief that we really are living in the end times. What else can it be while witnessing a wholesale rush to embrace the very things that destroyed ancient Sodom and Gomorrah?

LUKE 17:28-30 "LIKEWISE ALSO AS IT WAS IN THE DAYS OF LOT; THEY DID EAT, THEY DRANK, THEY BOUGHT, THEY SOLD, THEY PLANTED, THEY BUILT. BUT THE SAME DAY THAT LOT WENT OUT OF SODOM IT RAINED FIRE AND BRIMSTONE FROM HEAVEN, AND DESTROYED THEM ALL"!

And what was the sin of Sodom? Free sex, often perverted, no doubt public nudity, and I am very certain drugs and drunkenness! Who knows what else was going on there but of one thing I am certain.

GOD DID NOT LIKE IT!

The times are evil and getting worse by the day.

Come quickly Lord Jesus,
For those of you---both men and women who still value modesty,

God bless,
Pastor Rance.

WAR FOOTING?--SOME COMMON SENSE PLEASE!!!

Dear friends and readers,

REALLY?

Hard to imagine the snarky comments all over the news channels about why OR why not we (USA) have not bombed the crud out of Iran (ancient Persia) because of (IRANS)  huge attack this week on Saudi Arabia's oil refinery. Which by the way does effect oil prices throughout the entire world.

So lets be clear here; As a writer I try to stay away from politics altogether. So for the purpose of this article, I don't really care if you love President Trump or if you hate him. Lets get past last names and personalities for goodness sakes and just look at the "BIG CHAIR" and the responsibilities that go with it.

The issue is---do we start another war or do we as a nation take another shot to the chin by a thoroughly nasty regime run by religious fanatics who have sworn to wipe Israel, the United States and virtually all non believers in Islam off the worldwide map?

Yes, Yes there are good peace loving Muslims. No, No we should not EVER categorize all members of any faith as either good or bad. I have learned as a Pastor that we in Christianity have a few nasty critters running around also from time to time although most are peace loving people.

Now that, THAT is cleared up, lets talk common sense about Trump's attitude about this latest act of aggression from the leadership in Tehran. And why is the President being blasphemed now? Because he is apparently waiting patiently to get ALL the facts before he (as Commander in Chief) pulls the trigger.

QUESTION?

Would you rather have a President (regardless of last name or party affiliation) who jumps immediately into another war? Or one who is careful to examine all the evidence before acting?

Because if you think that Iraq 1 and 2 not to mention Afghanistan were a mistake??? Just remember that Iran's army numbers about (2017 figures) 534,000 plus another 125,000 IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) and an annual military budget of over 14 Billion dollars not including it's nuclear programs. Huge right? But that is not the entire story.

Iran has also CONSISTENTLY attempted to gain a military foothold in Syria (just to Israel's north), supports and funds the terror organization, Hezbollah in Lebanon (also on Israel's border). And Hezbollah boasts THOUSANDS of rockets and missiles, all pointing at Israeli cities and military installations. Iran also arms another terror organization called Hamas who have taken military and political control of the Gaza strip---sending hundreds of rockets into Israel each year. But that is not all. Iran also sponsors another terrorist organization in Yemen (south if Saudi Arabia) who are called the Houthi's. Saudi Arabia and the Houthi's have been locked in war for over 10 years.

Right across the Persian Gulf from Iran is the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Saudis have a somewhat smaller standing army but ranks as number three WORLDWIDE in annual defense spending with over 69 BILLION dollars. So what's the problem? With that kind of hardware the Saudi's should be able to make quick work of Iran for destroying it's oil refinery which by the way is reported to be the largest in the world, taking out of production 5.7 MILLION barrels of oil per day.

Many people do not know that the Middle East and surrounding areas contain 65 Muslim controlled countries that stretch from West Africa to South East Asia. Those countries have basically two different sects of Islam. SUNNI and SHIA or SHIITE. Although all of them are Muslim these two different sects DO NOT get along. In fact in many instances, hate each other even more than they hate non Muslims in Europe and the United States. Even more so is a common, violent, virulent hatred for all things Israel.

Do you remember the old adage "I can hate my brother and call him names---BUT YOU CAN'T"?

So the real question is---what kind of war would it take to unite the entire Muslim world against any kind of aggression whether justified or not? What does that look like in real terms? 1.8 BILLION Muslims potentially united in war. And you wonder why Trump is being cautious?

KUDOS for a strong but cautious leader.

President Trump is getting blasted on several fronts about a potential conflict between the Saudi's and the Mullahs of Iran. On the one hand are the war hawks who want Trump to "FRAG" Iran until it is reduced to a huge parking lot. Frag by the way is a military term for "BLOW UP!

On the other hand, are those who are claiming he is weak because he is waiting to see what the Saudi's have determined to do about this attack. I even heard a female congresswoman today claim that Trump is nothing more than a "pimp" for the Saudi's. WHY? Because he is allowing time for them to decide what kind of retaliation is called for.

Well guess what? Yes, we most certainly do have a very large stake in the Middle East including Saudi Arabia. Including significant US military assets in that country. And a potential worldwide oil crisis. But the fact remains that it was another sovereign nation that was directly attacked, not the mainland USA or a direct hit on a US military installation.

IT IS THE SAUDI'S WHO HAVE THE RIGHT OF FIRST CHOICE!!!

And accordingly, Trump is correct in waiting to find out what the Saudi's intend to do about this act of war by Iran. Then and only then will the US military command take action in support of the Saudi's, if at all. In the meanwhile the President is layering crippling economic sanctions on Iran for their bad behavior. That is NOT a case of a leader "sitting on his hands"!

So back to the original question? Would you rather have a President sitting in the "BIG CHAIR" who has maximum strength at his disposal but who is being cautious about the potential for another world war? Or would you rather have QUICK DRAW McGRAW as Commander in Chief?

Personally, I know that any kind of new war in the Middle East is a prescription for not only failure but unmitigated disaster.

If I were the "school marm", I would grade the Presidents reaction to this attack---so far with an A+.

God bless,
Pastor Rance.

MIDDLE EAST HEADED FOR WAR--Persian style!

Dear friends and readers,

Isn't it amazing that we see very little on the major broadcast news channels about pending war in the Middle East?

I know, I know---you have heard it all before and not much seems to happen???

Maybe not THIS time!

SOMEONE just attacked one of the largest oil refinery plants in the world, destroying fully one half of it---potentially downsizing production by 5.7 million barrels per day.

Where is located? SAUDI ARABIA who has been fighting proxy wars for over 10 years with IRAN (ancient PERSIA). Evidence is mounting that Iranian missiles may be the culprit launched from Iraq.

Houthi rebels operating in Yemen are claiming responsibility for this destruction using drones to strike this immense target---so logically it could not possibly be Iran. Right? Again not so simple! However the facts on the ground are that the Houthi's are a militant organization sponsored and paid for by the Government of IRAN. And have been for very many years. If they did it, Iran supplied the weapons and the marching orders!

So what's the big deal and why should we care? After all the United States is now a net energy exporter and so theoretically we no longer need crude oil produced in the Middle East.

Not so fast because this kind of issue ALWAYS creates a ripple effect and this single refinery disaster could well send the price of crude to over $100. per barrel for most of rest of the world. But why would Iran attack someone else's oil? SIMPLE--Iran is also---or at least I should say, WAS a huge oil exporter until the nuclear crisis began with Iran's desire to build a nuke. Then, as we know, the U.S. slapped so many sanctions on Iran that their own economy is now in free fall.

So, also logically, if Iran can cut the worlds oil supply (in this case by a provocation of war against another sovereign nation), then many governments of the world would conceivably put immense pressure on the United States to lift the sanctions on Iran so their oil can once again flow freely on the world market. And frankly in my opinion, the leadership of Iran may well think they are immune from retaliation on a military scale because of their radicalized terrorist ideology.

When you think you are butchering people because it is God's will---? Terrible things can happen.

Some people never learn. Remember Saddam Hussein? He thought that his country of Iraq was also immune. How did that work out for him???

If you want to start a war, just go after someone's wallet. The Iranian nuclear issue put the entire Middle East in conflict and potentially created a threat to the United States and Israel not to mention our closest allies which include Saudi Arabia. So why not simply cut Saudi Arabia loose from the U.S. altogether and back away from the entire issue? After all Iran's wallet has been severely reduced in size and now so has the Saudi's. Let them duke it out and settle the whole tamale all by themselves? Ah but once again not so easy to do!

No one likes U.S. involvement in foreign wars but truthfully if the U.S. were not a stabilizing factor in the Middle East the whole region would be aflame with war that may not be able to be extinguished. And many do not know that one of the United States largest forward military operating bases is located in Saudi Arabia. Recent redeployments and upgrades to the Prince Sultan Airbase includes an unspecified number of U.S. troops, fighter jets and Patriot missile air defense systems.  That plus bases in several other countries within the Middle East make it seriously necessary for the U.S. to object to Saudi Arabia being attacked by anyone. In fact right now at least one very powerful U.S. Senator---Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, is reportedly urging President Trump to launch a massive retaliatory strike on Iran's oil industry. Personally I think that Trump will resist this but you can count on many more outraged voices being raised from both sides if the political isle.

WHY? Because money is the issue here!

Let's contrast that to---Millions upon millions of helpless babies having been butchered through abortion worldwide and although multitudes of people are outraged---NOTHING GETS DONE! Anti Semitism is once more rampant throughout many countries of the world and although many people are outraged---NOTHING GETS DONE! Israel is surrounded and constantly attacked by both Hamas and Hezbollah---at the behest of Iran. Multitudes are incensed by this but NOTHING GETS DONE! Christians are being martyred in many countries at an unprecedented rate---but NOTHING GETS DONE! Christianity is under wholesale attack here in the good ole U.S. of A but NOTHING GETS DONE! And I could go on and on.

BUT attack the worldwide wallet by putting oil production at risk and I can guarantee that SOMETHING WILL GET DONE!!!

Who knows what at this time but stand by!!! Things could become very complicated very soon.

One mans opinion,
Pastor Rance.

BORDERS--ARE THEY BIBLICAL?

Dear friends and readers

WHAT A CONTROVERSY!!! And yet it should be so easy.

Have you ever seen this much argument over something so simple as a wall on a nations border?

As I write this I am not coming from a political viewpoint nor do I represent any of the modern day political machines currently running Washington D.C. I am writing this article strictly from two perspectives 1). Can we find a Biblical argument for walls and boarders? 2). Can we have a bit of common sense here--PLEASE!?

So lets start out with some basics; When driving through any state---lets say California, there eventually comes a time in which you see a sign that says "ENTERING NEVADA". One single foot past that sign or imaginary mark on the ground means that you are now in an entirely different jurisdiction. Even the traffic laws change and unless it is a real emergency Law Enforcement from one state entering another state is without power to enforce the law. Real estate laws are different. An attorney moving from California to Nevada has to be recertified by the Nevada authorities before he can practice law. The laws are so vastly different between these two jurisdictions that they even vary in alcohol licensing, gambling and prostitution.

They are sovereign territories who have the right to determine what will and will not happen within their borders. If Nevada wanted to build a fence or wall to keep out those rascally California born jack rabbits, no one would care or even notice (until they received their tax bill of course).

On a much higher plane, did you know that the New City of Jerusalem (Revelation chapter 21) is surrounded by walls with gates? Lets see now, who was it who authored Revelation chapter 21? Oh yes, now I recall it was the Lord Himself---God! All over the Middle East today you will find countries with varying degrees of walls with gates. You cannot pass from Israel to Jordan without passing through a veritable mountain of barbed wire, razor wire and armed guards. The same can be said for many countries of the world today. With the exception of parts of the European Union, you cannot pass from one nation to another without the proper paperwork.

A wall or security barrier is the only thing today keeping a semblance of order between Israel and the Gaza strip. Walls work. And in the case of the southern border of the United States and Mexico, there is ample justification on both siders to want a wall or security barrier of some kind. Drugs going north and guns going south. Now I am not an anti gun guy and believe strongly in the Second Amendment but that is NORTH of the border. When I am SOUTH of the border I know full well that guns are illegal in Mexico and if caught with one I would be in prison. NO QUESTIONS ASKED! Different countries, different laws. Two different sovereign territories both of whom have the absolute right to put in place laws that apply their own cultures.

But what about God? What does He think? I guarantee that God is not confused by this issue. In Acts chapter 17:26 the Apostle Paul tells us that God established nations and boarders.  Daniel chapter 2 tells us that God raises up leaders and nations and it is also He who also puts them down. Without borders a kingdom is not a kingdom, it is merely a war waiting to happen with its neighbors. There would be no order, no justice and no law. God also says that He will bless a nation whose God is the Lord and that could not happen if that nation was not clearly distinguished from all others. And God also says that one day He will judge all the nations. Clearly it is His desire for clear cut nations to exist.

The definition of any country includes a common language (although others may well exist within). A common system off exchange, a common currency and a common system of defense. And these things should be of real concern to citizens of any country and the terms of these issues should be something that are not kicked around like political footballs.  Leviticus 19:34 sees God commanding Israel to welcome the strangers or sojourners "as one" who is native born. Sounds great for the open borders clan don't you think? But let's peel away some layers shall we? The Hebrew word for "STRANGER" is "ger" and basically means an immigrant WHO WANTS TO ASSIMILATE"! Have you noticed how many demonstrations lately have witnessed immigrants waiving the flags of their old country while on American soil? That is not assimilation folks. That is entering the good ole U.S. of A. and trying to turn it into the country they just left or escaped from.

King Solomon said in 2nd Chronicles 6:32 "If a sojourner comes to our land BECAUSE OF OUR GOD then welcome him".

But we do have to be very careful here what Biblical scriptures we use in relationship to a southern border wall in the United States because we are not Israel. So while we can see a general picture of how God worked with the ancients we have an obligation to offset that with the verse that says God never changes. The way He thought about things THEN is still the way He thinks about things NOW!

Every single sovereign territory on this earth has a duty to it's citizens to protect them from evil doers.  Of course certainly most prospective immigrants are just trying to make their lives better. But also there are some very bad guys out there trying to get into the country by any means possible. I for one am all for legal immigration but since I live in Mexico as a permanent resident, I can tell you first hand, that it took my wife and I, YEARS OF PAPERWORK and red tape to gain that designation, not to mention a ton of greenbacks! And when we adopted a Mexican child it took nearly 7 years in the Mexican courts to do so. If at any one single moment we were not legal during those years, we could have been deported in a heart beat. And righteously so!

So what am I concerned about? I am sick and tired of seeing this border wall controversy sucking the oxygen out of nearly every single news cycle. I am tired of seeing this thing used for political gain by either or both sides. I am sick and tired of reading about opioid epidemics and illegal drugs flowing from south to north. I am heartily sick of knowing that MS 13 gangs can stroll across the border at will. And yes although I am a gun lover myself, for heavens sakes let's do something to respect Mexican "anti gun" law.

Let's write some letters. Make some calls, do some "orderly" marches if need be and just build the darn wall.

Walls are respected by God and also should be by His creation. If you doubt what I say here just take a look at the book of Nehemiah. Much of it is about rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. That was in the 5th century B.C. Although built and rebuilt many times---they still stand to this very day.

Let's get on with our lives and support the rule of law on both sides of the border. That starts with a defensible wall.

God bless,
Pastor Rance.

VINDICATED! Ancient Temple NOT in same location of Dome of the Rock!

Dear friends and readers,

THE ANCIENT JEWISH TEMPLE WAS NOT LOCATED UNDER WHAT IS NOW THE ISLAMIC DOME OF THE ROCK!!!

To say that I am excited is a gross understatement. For many years I have been claiming and teaching that the two ancient Jewish Temples were NOT located directly under the current Muslim Dome of the Rock on Israel's Temple Mount.

VINDICATION is a very sweet thing! But we will get to that a bit later.

Everyone I have told about my theory including good friends who are Israeli tour guides have---how shall I say this? Smiled, and respectfully treated me with a sort of childish imbecilic grudging respect for someone slightly mentally infirm. As in "OK Rance, lets be realistic here shall we"?

But this was not just some farfetched dream I had---no it was based upon lots of research. The reason for that is because I have believed for a very long time that part of the eventual 7 years peace pact of Daniel chapter 9 (instigated by the eventual antichrist between Israel and her neighbors) would include the ability for Israel to once again build her Third Temple.

Under ALL current thinking by ALL of the supposed authorities, the Jewish Holy of Holies was situated directly under what is now the Dome or Shrine of the Rock which is now located on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.  And even I would agree that the Islamic scholars and not one single Muslim worldwide would EVER agree to tearing down that Shrine to make way for another Jewish Temple. In fact trying to do so would no doubt trigger a world war.

So, I theorized that the current Dome of the Rock is really located in what may well have been the area of the COURT OF THE GENTILES located in a portion of the original Jewish Temple grounds but not in the exact place of the Temple itself and certainly not the Holy of Holies!

In other words, during the future 7 years peace pact, both the Islamic Dome of the Rock and the new (Third) Jewish Temple could co-exist on the same Temple Mount platform.

Only one man that I know of, a well know journalist and author by the name of David Dolan had similar beliefs. Perhaps others but I have never run into them.

While I cannot speak to Mr. Dolan's rationale, I can speak to mine which was and is based upon established fact and ancient Jewish folklore.

First, it is known in the Mishnah (Jewish Oral Laws) that the first two Temples were not located in the exact center of the current Temple Mount. Second, the first Temple was tilted at an axis of 6.1975 degrees to the north of east so it would directly face the rising sun each day over Mount Moriah. The second Temple had a slightly different axis of 5.971 degrees which accounted for a slight change in solar alignment due to the passage of time (70 years between the destruction of the First Temple by the Babylonians and the beginning of construction of the Second Temple).

Interestingly several years ago I came across a tidbit of folklore (NOTE: I could never prove this point) that indicated that the High Priest could stand with His back to the Holy of Holies and look out through 7 gates to supervise (off in the distance) other priests who were located just outside the Eastern Temple Gate (Golden Gate) while the sins of Israel were transferred onto the head of a Scapegoat and then lead off into the wilderness.

NOTE:  The Eastern or Golden Gate is the one facing the Mount of Olives and the one through which Israel's Messiah will someday enter onto the Temple Mount. We followers of Christ realize that Israel's Messiah is Jesus, the Christ of God!

I have been on the Temple Mount personally and under no circumstances can anyone from the area of the Dome of the Rock look out through the Golden Gate. They are not even close. But there is a very small structure which is directly lined up with the Golden Gate and it is set well back from the Dome of the Rock. This small structure--more accurately a dome shaped tiny open sided kiosk is called the DOME OF THE SPIRITS (in Arabic=Bir al-Arwah). Below which is a partly natural and partly man created small cave which cannot be investigated due to the rules of the Muslim authorities currently in control of the Temple Mount.

This small structure has always been my candidate for the exact location of the ancient Holy of Holies. Would anyone listen? Oh no!

But as stated above---VINDICATION IS A SWEET THING! Just today I reviewed a recent article written by Rabbi Harry Moskoff, the author of the A.R.K. report. After 20 years of intensive research, Rabbi Moskoff has concluded that the ancient Jewish Temples were NOT located on the sight currently occupied by the Islamic Dome of the Rock. Further Rabbi Moskoff himself locates the Holy of Holies directly over that little DOME OF THE SPIRITS! His theory has also been reviewed by Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, one of the leading Haredi (Ultra Orthodox) rabbis and several other leading rabbis who have written decisions agreeing with Moskoff's theory.

To sweeten the pot just a bit; No Rabbi will ever have entered the Dome of the Rock to this point in history, believing it to be the actual spot of the Holy of Holies because only a High Priest would have the ability to do so. However interestingly Rabbi Moskoff points out that an extremely famous 12th century rabbi "Moses ben Maimon" known as MAIMONIDES or the acronym "RAMBAM" did visit Jerusalem during his days and reported that he did in fact enter the Dome of he Rock---a place he would never ever have gone had he believed for one second was the actual location of the Holy of Holies!

Currently there are plans to build the Third Temple. All of the High Priests clothing and Temple sacrificial implements are being recreated. The ancient religious ruling body, the SANHEDRIN has now been reconstituted. There is an outcry from Jews (and many Christians) worldwide to begin construction. What no one has been able to figure out is how to convince the Muslims worldwide to give up their Holy Dome of the Rock?

Now the jury may be in. If in fact Rabbi Moskoff is correct, there is no need to tear down the Dome of the Rock. It makes perfect sense for the future antichrist to find a way around this dilemma. If the DOME OF THE SPIRITS is the actual location of the Holy of Holies and the Dome of the Rock is located in the ancient COURT OF THE GENTILES???

Sounds like perfect Godly planning to me. And I for one am gratified that the Lord revealed this to me so many years ago.

God bless,
Pastor Rance.