Category: Church

Beast from the Sea, Caesar, Cross, False Prophet, Satan

Seizing God’s Likeness

David R Maas

Satan and the Rulers of this Age exalt themselves and usurp Divine prerogatives in contrast to the true Servant of God, Jesus Christ.

Jesus of Nazareth fulfilled the role of the ‘Suffering Servant’ described in the Book of Isaiah. He did not attempt to seize the “likeness of God” as Adam did or exploit his position as God’s Messiah to exercise power over others. His sovereignty is radically different than the governments of this fallen world. Rather than subjugate his subjects or kill his enemies, Christ endured a shameful death on the Imperial Cross for friend and foe alike in obedience to his Father; therefore, God exalted him above all things.

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Beast from the Sea, Caesar, False Prophet

Idolizing the Beast

David R Maas

The Empire’s propagandists encourage men and women to give allegiance and veneration to the Emperor, the Beast from the Sea.

The “False Prophet” as described in the Book of Revelation uses religious symbolism and economic control to coax the Inhabitants of the Empire to pay homage to the Imperial Throne. Whether force or persuasion is employed, the goal is the same. Men who refuse to venerate the “Beast from the Sea” are excluded from economic activity and impoverished.

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Discipleship, Kingdom of God, Sermon on the Mount, Teachings of Jesus

His Kingdom

David R Maas

Jesus proclaimed a unique political reality, the Kingdom of God, one that differs radically from the governments and ideologies of this present age.

Jesus appeared in Galilee proclaiming the “Kingdom of God” – “Repent, for the kingdom is at hand.” The Kingdom promised by God was arriving in Christ’s life and ministry. He was the Messiah and King of Israel who summoned all men to turn from their wicked ways and submit to his lordship before the Judgment when it would be too late.

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Cross, Discipleship

Real Power

David R Maas

“They overcame the Dragon by the blood of the Lamb, the word of their testimony, and because they loved not their lives unto death.”

Popular preaching claims the Church’s victory will be accomplished by the coming massive outpouring of mighty “signs and wonders” as predicted by today’s prophetic voices. This has become the “Holy Grail” of charismatic churches. Only a super revival characterized by wave after wave of miraculous deeds will equip the church to fulfill its Great Commission.

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