Many SDA today  think of the standard  end time scenario they have been taught. The soon to come dreaded “Sunday Law” will happen and then we as faithful Sabbath keepers, have to make our stand to avoid getting the deadly “mark of the beast”.  But is that what the  3 inspired books tell  us (Bible, EGW, Shep. Rod)? Let us look more closely at the big picture and see how the puzzle fits when we study God’s 3 sources of His word. It will  be quite different than the standard SDA teaching of end time events.

The general SDA today understand the following simplified end time view.

1) The people in our church go out NOW into babylon (the Sunday churches,   and all heathen of the world) and try to bring in the people to God’s remnant church, the SDA. Efforts are made by many divisions (3abn, Amazing facts, Hope channel,General conference initiatves,etc.)

2) As the people are brought in , they are taught to expect the upcoming Sunday law. This will be the next “big” thing to come upon the world that everyone needs to focus on.

3)After the establishment of the Sunday law takes place, the millions of people( including many millions of SDA) who don’t submit to this Sunday worship, get sealed by God and are spared the plaques.

4) Jesus comes in  the clouds and we are ushered into the heavenly millennium.

As we start to investigate this scenario, many points and questions arise that ultimately leave gapping holes in this outline. And these are not minor ones. For instance,let’s look at some of the obvious ones.

In point one, we notice that our calling out the people of the world into the SDA churches is doing this –  We are calling them out of one church filled with sinners, into another church filled with sinners. The SDA church being co-mingled with the wheat and the tares (Godly and unGodly) right now. Is this really God’s plan? Has God stopped caring about His church, it’s true spiritual condition? Unfortunately, we must come to that decision if we are to believe that the  SDA point one is to make sense.

Ellen White describes the current situation within the SDA church. “Men and women are in the last hours of probation, and yet are careless and stupid, and ministers have no power to arouse them; they are asleep themselves. Sleeping preachers preaching to a sleeping people!” (Testimonies, Vol.2, p.337)   Can we expect God to be pleased as we call the people into His current sleeping church?  Again EGW says “But the days of purification of the church are hastening on apace. God will have a people pure and true (this cannot mean co-mingled). In the mighty sifting soon to take place we shall be better able to measure the strength of Israel (SDA church). The signs reveal that the time is near when the Lord will manifest that His fan is in His hand, and will thoroughly purge His floor.” (Testimonies, Vol. 5, p.80)

Some may say , in regards to point one, “How can it be that God doesn’t want us to win souls all over the world now?” Perhaps this is best answered by two following points. 

1)EGW says in (Christian Service, p.41) “…not one on twenty whose names are registered on the church books, are prepared to close their earthly history, and would be as verily without God and without hope in the world as the common sinner.”  And keep in mind that was back in”her day”. With the millions more in the church today, what really is the ratio?

So if we have a serious problem within the church now, does it make sense to ignore our fellow brothers and sisters, and reach out to even more, yet let our own proceed perilously head long into the abyss? God wants a pure clean church for the people to “come into”. Sadly we are told this would never happen unless HE takes the reins Himself and does something about it.

More evidence that God will not allow a co-mingled church much longer. “The purging and cleansing will surely pass through EVERY CHURCH (SDA) in our land that has had great opportunities and priveleges, and has passed them unheeded.” (Testimonies to Ministers, p.414)  The SDA church being given great light on many truths, and unfortunately to a large degree,  has not heeded it’s own teachings.

2) The last prophet’s  message from God,  being our most important message right now, clearly explains why we are to go into our own church now,  not babylon. In the “Answerer, Vol.3, question 67″  The prophet says “..the Davidians labor in the interest of the church, the Denomination carries the old message to the world. But should the Davidians also devote their time and money to looking after the interests of the heathen then both the church and the world would be plunged into hell. Consequently, to save the world, we must first seek to save the church from the ruin that is imminent, as did John the Baptist, Christ, and the apostles, in their day.

After the church awakes and ceases dreaming that she is “rich and increased with goods”, finds out that she is in need of everything rather than of “nothing”, puts on her strength by turning to Christ her Leader, clothes herself in the garments of His righteousness, and let’s the unclean no more pass through her ( Isa.52:1), then shall her righteousness go forth as brightness and her salvation as a lamp that burneth. And the Gentiles shall see her righteousness, and all the kings her glory (Isa.62:1-2). Then shall she really be able to save.”  (Please note, we should not think that we advocate ignoring someone outside the church who wants to know the truth, only that our PRIMARY focus should be within our own church)

We needed to spend some time on point one because this clearly shows “why” the SDA final event scenario is off track to begin with.The focus is causing the people to look left with they should be looking right.

On point two, whereas the SDA  teach the primary focus of the Sunday law, as the next important world event for the church, the Davidian SDA are focusing on the imminent sudden appearance of the Lord into His churches. (Mal 3:1) ” Behold, I send my messenger, And he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple, Even the Messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight. Behold, He is coming,” says the Lord of Hosts. “

The remainer of Malachi describes the purification  (never happened yet) of the church. So, clearly we see two distinct and quite different end time views. On the SDA view , we are clearly led to believe no church purification takes place BEFORE the Sunday laws. The sinners and righteous in church remain, to make their own decision as to accepting the “mark” or not.

But the Davidians view is the same as EGW’s clear statement about the church. “Now we can clearly see why there must be a sifting of God’s people BEFORE the loud cry can be given. The cause of weakness must first be removed before the valiant service can be expected in the field. A Gideon’s band is mightier than the host of Midian. God’s people will never be prepared to attack the sins of babylon as long as the principle of babylon is in their hearts.Therefore the giving of the loud cry must be PRECEEDED by a message TO GOD’S PEOPLE, which will accomplish an entire seperation from babylon.” (Review and Herald, Feb. 4, 1902)

Let us understand this statement as well “..only those who have withstood temptation in the strength of the Mighty One will be permitted to act a part in proclaiming it (the third angel’s message) when it shall have swelled into the Loud Cry.”(Review and Herald ,Nov.19,1908)

This “message” is believed to be the straight testimony of the Davidians  given now to the SDA about the Lord’s coming “suddenly to His temple”. The clear purpose is WARN the people about our Lord’s “sifting” out the unrighteous and uncoverted from among the church. This is for the express purpose of forming God’s last day “elect”, the 144,000. Our Lord speaks of this in (Mal.3:17) ” They shall be Mine” says the Lord of hosts, “On the day I make My jewels. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him.”

So we see warnings going out now, from one group. And a lukewarm sense of contentment from the other. Nevertheless, it has always been God’s way to “warn”. EGW explains “God does not send judgements upon His people without first warning them to repent. He uses every means to bring them back to obedience and does not visit their iniquity with judgements until He has given them ample opportunity to repent.” (Testimonies, Vol. 4, p.179)

So to summarize part one, we see two different actions by the SDA and the DSDA. One is allowing the incoming of sin and sinners into the church, proclaiming that all will work itself out, just beware of the Sunday laws coming. The other is actively warning their own to “wash your garments” , get ready now, the Lord is about to begin “judgement for the living” beginning with us within the church.

Next week we’ll look at further views of the final events.

In Christ, Rob

In the very last part of the last book in the Old testament, the Lord signed off with the following promise. (Mal. 4:5) “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.”  This important event was therefore broadcast to His people so that we, as Christians, could be aware of what to expect in the very last days. Unfortunately Satan also knows about this. Let us look at how the devil and his minions are actively working against this last day “Elijah” and his message.

Before we go into this , it is helpful to know just what is this Elijah message . Ellen White describes a great clue in (Test. to Ministers, p.475) ” Somebody is to come in the spirit and power of Elijah and when he appears, men may say “you are too earnest, you do not INTERPRET the scriptures in the proper way, let me tell you how to teach your message.” The one who comes will obviously be an “interpreter” of scriptures, and by so doing, help to warn the people of the great and dreadful day very soon to come.

Many believe that “Elijah” has come and his name was Victor T. Houteff.  He did indeed interpret scripture as no one had before. Hosea, Jerimiah, Zechariah,Matthew 20 and more, were interpreted, and the message revealed that God was to have a church purified and a kingdom set up on earth BEFORE the Lord comes in the clouds on the “last day”. This kingdom is not to be a government kingdom, but rather a church kingdom, where finally God will have a church with no achan’s.

So brother Houteff did his work, he began ”preparing” the people for the great and dreadful day of the Lord with his sermons and his writings. And Satan and the devils took quick notice, they were on look out. Victor and his followers were kicked out of the church after soon revealing the hidden things that God had him  unlock. Satan began his attack. The small company was forced to relocate to a location in Texas. But the SDA leadership spread far and wide the false rumor that brother Houteff was a false teacher.

But brother Houteff was steadfast, he grew the publishing work, and the members grew as well. He was fulfilling God’s word through Ellen White’s writing in (Test. for the Church, Vol.7, p.140) ” In a large degree through our PUBLISHING HOUSES is to be accomplished the work of that other angel who comes down from heaven with great power and who lightens the earth with his glory.”

So we see right from the get-go, Satan was on top of the Elijah message.  And he hasn’t let go to this very day! This is the message he hates! Read what EGW said about it. “There is nothing in the popular ministry that stirs the wrath of Satan, makes the sinner tremble, or applies to the heart and conscience, the fearful realities of a judgement soon to come.” (Early Writings, page 273).

So with the thorough understanding that Satan and his angels are bitterly opposed to this last day message, let us look at how we can notice and become aware of his attacks.

Let me start with the example of “Harry”.

Harry was a good solid SDA member. But he was dedicated. He faithfully read the scriptures and EGW several times during the week. But Harry was often grieved when he went to church service. He’d noticed members texting during the sermon. He noticed young  women wearing mini-skirts. He would come home from service feeling as if he and his people had dishonored the Lord. He sighed and cried. The Lord TOOK NOTICE.

Let me stop here for a moment and say that our Lord will never miss a sigher and crier for Him and His Laws. This action sets apart his people, from the real converted to the semi-converted. The Commandment keepers who are genuinely grieved at sin,  tell Him they are not lukewarm.

Back to Harry. So soon Harry is on his computer and he stumbles upon an end time Davidian video, or audio message. He listens then soon his face is like this –  :-0. He can’t believe what he hears. Why are the leaders not telling us this? He ask’s himself. Soon Harry starts studying the endtime message. Our Lord has guided him to just the place He wants him. Harry accepts the message, for he has investigated for himself, he proved it out. Harry is a researcher and searchs things out.

Harry becomes deeply content, because the Lord has blessed him with much knowledge of His plans and His will. It’s almost like a honeymoon. He’s elated because as sister White says, we should search scripture like searching for gold nuggets. Harry has found the mother lode! He starts spreading the message. He’s on the computer telling it, he mentions to some friends at church, he hands out dvd’s  and cd’s of the message.

All goes well for awhile. But then something starts happening. He becomes troubled. He starts to think “I’ve been telling people about this message and it sure is solemn, maybe I’m overdoing it. Maybe it’s not right that I warn them so much.” Doubts, confusion, some depression sets in. Harry has now started to receive the “dark clouds” prophesised by EGW.

Ellen White describes what is happening . ” I saw some, with strong faith and agonizing cries, pleading with God. Their countenances were pale and marked with deep anxiety, expressive of their internal struggle. Firmness and great earnestness was expressed in their countenances;large drops of perspiration fell from their foreheads. Now and then their faces would light up with the marks of God’s approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look would settle upon them.

Evil angels crowded around, pressing darkness upon them to shut out Jesus from their view, that their eyes might be drawn to the darkness that surrounded them, and thus they be led to distrust God and murmur against Him.Their only safety was keeping their eyes directed upward. Angels of God charge over His people, and as the poisonous atmosphere of evil angels was pressed around these anxious ones, the heavenly angels were continually wafting their wings over them to scatter the thick darkness.”

So that you know beyond doubt that EGW describes the Davidian’s and their end time message she continues “I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen and was shown that it would be caused by the STRAIGHT TESTIMONY called forth by the counsel of the True Witness TO THE LAODICEANS.”

We see that the messengers of the end time straight testimony of the Church judgement, go directly to their fellow members(to the Laodiceans). This message enrages Satan and his angels. For it makes the people aware of God’s end time plans and soon brings in the sealed 144,000. Then this mighty little company of God will set up God’s last days kingdom, and he will be at the very end of his rope.

Other helpful quotes by EGW — ” I was shown that Satan’s power is especially exercised upon the people of God. Many were presented before me in a doubting desparing condition…. And it is too often the case that the people of God are not on their watch, therefore are ignorant of his devices.” (Test. for the Church, vol. 1, page 304).

“Satan will work ingeniously, in different ways and through different agencies, to unsettle the confidence of God’s remnant people in the true testimony.” –Letter 12, 1890 –Selected Messages Vol.1, P.48

So it is very important to realize that if you decide to step up to the Davidian platform BE PREPARED!  It will not be  a cakewalk. Not only will dark forces often hover by you, but those weaker Davidians who unfortuantely aren’t truly converted, will go against you as well. They will murmer against you, spread falsehoods, and listen to the evil ones suggestions. Don’t forget Satan works best by going within! Of all people the Davidian Seventh Day Adventists, should have love in their hearts, due to the great light shown them.

Just like he did with Judas, Satan began going inside the movement with none other than the prophet’s wife! Florence Houteff, after the death of brother Houteff in 1955,  unfortunately was swayed strongly by dark forces and started publishing ON HER OWN supposed writings of brother Houteff. For a excellent 2 part study of how Florence let error into the message, see this video.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgxiN_PL2GQ&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

In closing, let us be strengthened by the inspired prophetess’ words. ” Wicked men and devils cannot hinder the work of God, or shut out His presence from the assemblies of His people, if they will, with subdued, contrite hearts, confess and put away their sins, and in faith claim His promises. Every temptation, every opposing influence, whether open or secret, may be SUCCESSFULLY RESISTED, “not by might, not by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts (Zech. 4:6).” (Selected messages , Vol. 1, p.124)

We will be ever strong when we look to HIM as our defense. When we understand how and why the enemy attacks us, we are better able to withstand them. Because we choose to take on the message, our reward will be to be a part of “God’s Elect” in finishing His work here on earth, and our internal struggles will turn into the great joy of the Lord! 

In Christ, 

Rob

When we go back to the very beginnings, God had made our food pure, no toxins existed in anything we ate or drink. Eden was a true beautiful paradise, flowing with such beauty. But today we are very degenerated from those days. Our bodies and minds have been bombarded with toxins. Could it be that fasting has more to offer than we suppose, for mind, body and soul?

In (Luke 4:1) we read “Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wildernesss, being tempted for forty days by the devil. And in those days He ate nothing, and afterward, when they had ended, He was hungry.” Then in verse 14, just after Jesus had come out of the wilderness it says ” Then  Jesus returned in the POWER OF THE SPIRIT to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. Could His prayer and fasting the 40 days, contributed to His being in “the power of the Spirit”? Certainly.

 Look at this list of notable men who  fasted.  Moses fasted 40 days because of the sin of Israel (Deu. 9:15-18) Daniel fasted (Dan 9:3-5) David fasted while his son was ill (2 Sam. 12:16) Ezra led a fast to seek God’s favor (Ez.8:21) .There are many more examples of fasting. But from the above we can see fasting was done for –forgiveness of sins, asking for help in health restoration of a loved one, and protection from danger (Ezra).

So in studying this subject, it brought me to the thought –why aren’t we practicing this much? Can it be we’ve neglected a most helpful practice in becoming more in tune with our Lord and even more “in power”? In (Luke 5:35) Pointing down in time, Jesus definitely makes it clear we shall fast . “But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and THEN shall they fast in those days.”

Being  studied in the nutrition field, I’ve had the opportunity to study the effects of food and drink upon our body and mind. Let me just breifly state that the attitude, energy, mindset, even mood, can be directly affected by what you eat and drink. Let me give two  examples of this.

There are well known allergy tests known as the sublingual testing. The person fasts for 24 hours, then goes into the office to be tested. A clear concentrated solution is given of certain substances under the tongue, one at a time, to observe the reaction. A person may be given wheat for example , and then within minutes he feels shaky or even confused(gluten allergy). Then maybe milk is given and the person feels as if he is leaving his body, kind of  a floating dizziness. Maybe a friut , such as banana, then he feels a joyful uplifted mood.  The point I’m making is that all our allergens have, over time “built up” in us, making the body woefully polluted, then our thinking and mindset is seriously lowered. The body needs and demands– a rest and clean out, that’s called a fast.

This next example is truly a great one because of the unexpected final result. The story goes that a man (don’t remember where he was from) was just destroyed, heart broke. His fiance had found another man and left him. He was crushed, so he said “What’s to live for? I’m going to the mountains to die.” So he went up into the cold lonely mountains to die, no food just some water for a few days. So there he was , still crying, and suffering so much. Day one went by, day two and so forth, eating nothing except drinking water.

But something strange began to happen about day 7 or 8. He awoke and started to think  ”What if I can live without her? Maybe I can find someone even better, some one who will REALLY love me?”  His mind was becoming clearer, more rational.  His toxins were leaving. Unbeknowest to him , he was experiencing one of our Lord’s beautiful laws–the joy of purifying through fasting.

 On day 12, he had seen the light, he was very foolish to die over some  girl, who didn’t love him ever anyway. His mind was indeed clear. He went home a changed man!

 Admittingly, fasting commonly isn’t something that can be rushed into. Many find that juice fasting is a good prepartion for water fasting. Many times it’s better to do a one or two week vegetable and juice fast to become familiar with fasting. Certain reactions many times do happen that are known as “healing reactions”. These pass, and are  usually of a short duration ( usually 1 to 5 days at the beginning).

 We are told that the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. And as such, the purer we keep ourselves, the more we can be in tune with our Maker. Let us have the courage, through prayer, to fast as our Lord instructed. If we find our walk just never seems to be right, one of the most overlooked areas is –fasting. We continue day after day to toxicate ourselves without even realizing it!

If our bodies are “home” to God’s Holy Spirit, and in fact a ‘temple”, then it stands to reason we should clean and sanitize  it occasionally. In so doing we will find a clearer and more satisfying walk with our Maker.

 So let us continue to look to our Lord for all strength, including the ability fast as he said. Our Maker knows our every inch, and has declared “fasting” as a good and honorable thing to do.

In Christ, Rob

Before we go further, just to be clear, not all those  who call themselves Davidians are  necessarily  right with God, just like any other Christian group. But the true and honest Davidians know they have a most serious and solemn responsibility. Those who DO walk uprightly before the Lord and are Davidians, are those who have seen and understand God’s greatest light, God’s end time light bearers as it were. They take seriously the desire to be among the 144,000. Let us look at who these people are and what they stand for.

The Davidians were started in approx. 1930 by Victor T. Houteff. In the posts “Has Elijah come” under the Elijah heading, we have given some history about him and his purpose. If you haven’t looked into this man’s life and writings, I highly recommend you do. You could describe him as a male version of Ellen White, but different in the respect that his sole purpose was to warn the people that the “great and dreadful day of the Lord” was imminent. His interpretations of many prophecies are fascinating and divinely inspired (to those who take the time to investigate them). Many are convinced he was the “Elijah” to come as prophesised in (Mal.4:5).

Let us look at alittle history about the Davidians from brother Houteff himself. In his publication called Timely Greetings, Vol.2, number 10, pages 16-17, he writes “Fundamentally we are Seventh Day Adventists. Ever since the leading brethren of the Seventh Day Adventist denomination rejected the addition to the Third Angel’s Message (Early Writings, p.277) in the same fashion as the Jews turned down the gospel of Christ, and as the popular churches turned down the messages that followed thereafter, we have fundamentally remained Seventh Day Adventists.

We are seperated from the mother church because the “lukewarm” bretheren by majority vote disfellowshipped us, and put a guard at the church doors to make sure that we could not enter the churches on the Sabbath day.Evidently they did these things in order to force us to renounce the Lord’s revealed Truth, and also to frighten those who were embracing Present Truth and those who might investigate for themselves and accept the message of the hour. There could be no reason for dismissing us.

As we could not turn our backs upon the God-sent “meat in due season” we were, of course compelled to add Davidian to the name Seventh Day Adventist, lest we be accused of misrepresentation.We have never, however,  seperated ourselves from the denomination. As a people we still attend the denominational churches whenever we are not barred from entering.”

So we can see from the above history how the Davidians were brought into existance. Victor, and those who had became aware of the “additional message” as described by the prior prophet, Ellen White, in Early Writings, page 277, embraced the message unlike the scornful fellow members. So this tiny group was forced to huddle together, their own people  had thrown them out. But their message would not die. Today we are witnessing a new revival, as the Davidian message is swelling, even as we write.

But let us CLEARLY understand the situation now. Who do you think knows the scriptures better than anyone else in the universe except the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? You got it–Satan. Can we really think that Satan, knowing about the “Elijah to come”, would sit by idly twiddling his fingers and not be on the look out for this Elijah? He knows scripture, and that when this Elijah comes it will be at the very end of time. He final clock begins, he will be in full panic mode. He must stop the Elijah man and his messengers , and his message at all costs!

He full well knows he really can’t stop God’s plan, but he can try and delay it. If he can put his workers out on this message to disrupt, confuse, or refute then he has won time for a while longer. Let us look at Ellen White in her description of the “popular” ministry that Satan and his workers embrace.

“Ministers take their text from the word of God, but preach smooth things. To this the natural heart feels no objection. It is only the spirit and power of the Truth, and the salvation of Christ, that are hateful to the carnal heart. There is nothing in the popular ministry that STIRS THE WRATH OF SATAN, makes the sinner tremble, or applies to the heart and conscience, the fearful realities of a judgement soon to come (Early Writings, page 273).

Clearly we see that as soon as Truth is preached and especially the warnings of the coming judgement of God, Satan is stirred up. This judgement message has been the heart of the Davidian message!. So we need to understand that the evil one and his workers have set many snares to those who boldly go forward to learn and study the Davidian message. You’ll hear and read many false reports of the Davidians, and the Shepherd’s Rod teachings. Satan cannot and will not be still on this important end time message. It all makes clear sense.

Now let’s look at some important beliefs of the Davidian message.

1) They take literally the words of Ellen White that “we must strive with all the power God has given us, to be among the 144,000.”(Review and Herald, March 9, 1905) The Shepherd’s Rod teachings in this regard superbly blends the Bible and EGW to show a most clear light of how and when God’s elect will come into being, and their purpose. Here is a sermon called “The 144,000, who are they?” http://shepherds-rod-speaks.org/2010/11/the-144000-who-are-they/

2) They believe that God will establish a Kingdom FIRST here on earth before the 7 last plaques start. This “Kingdom” is not a government rule. It will be a pure “Church” Kingdom. In other words God will FINALLY have his pure Church after the great and dreadful day comes (His beginning day of judgement for the living IN the church). The world’s heathen will get to see His great power (miracles, healings, etc.) through His elect (144,000). They will go out and bring in the great multitude from all over the world. This study is addressed in more detail here.http://shepherds-rod-speaks.org/2011/07/will-the-kingdom-be-set-up-before-the-millennium/

3) A literal day of judgement for the living to take place here on earth, within His remnant church. The wheat will be separated from the tares. This will be the prophetic “great and dreadful day of the Lord”. Great for the elect of God, dreadful for the lukewarm and sinners in God’s church. This has and will  be the teachings of the Davidians. The trumpet is to sound the warning. Here you can order 4 free CD’s, one of which is the Ezekiel 9 prophecie.http://www.11th-hourministries.org/audio/cd_request.html

For a complete Fundamental list of the beliefs, here is the linkhttp://www.shepherds-rod.org/fbdsda.htm

We must ever be mindful that if we step up onto the Davidian platform, we are to be of the highest mindset in regards to our representation of Christ. Indeed, our Lord holds us accountable of the great light understood as a Davidian. We must never proclaim the message, and at the same time be a poor example of living justly and rightly before God. Rudeness, ignorance, aloofness, all must step aside, as we are servants .

In closing, let us be  remindful that the endtime message is a simple one. The evil one and his workers try to make the message complicated. That message is– We must know and keep DAILY His Holy 10 Commandments, and we must sigh and cry for the sins in our midst and in the church. If you are a SDA member, I would suggest you seriously look into this end time message, for God had a purpose in sending the “Elijah” to come before He comes, otherwise why even send him? It is God’s end time plan and the Davidians well know this. You should know it also.

In Christ, Rob

**  Davidians are not to be confused with “Branch Davidians” who teach differently and this author does not endorse them.

In Christ, Rob.

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In a recent post, we discovered that Ellen White revealed that the end time seal (Rev.7:3-4) was the same as Ezekiel saw in vision (Ezek.9:4) In that vision, we are told that the Lord commands His marking angel to go forth through the “city” (Church) and mark the men who sigh and cry for abominations done in the midst thereof. So we see clearly that in order to be counted worthy of God’s seal in the last days, we must sigh and cry.

The Hebrew word for sighing is “anach”, which means to mourn, groan or sigh. The Hebrew word for cry is “anaq”, which means to cry or groan. So the words mean a literal feeling of despondency. You feel bad about something, hence you may cry or sigh about it.(I have found the software called esword (http://www.e-sword.net/) invaluable in helping to find the correct meaning of certain words. I highly recommend it, and it’s free. But if you get good use out of it, please find it in your heart to donate a little something.)

Our beloved sister White sums up the sighing and crying in her typical beautifully worded message (Testimonies for the Church, Vol 5, page 210-211) “In the time when His wrath shall go forth in judgements, these humble, devoted followers of Christ will be distinguished from the rest of the world by their soul anguish, which is expressed in lamentations and weeping REPROOFS AND WARNINGS.  While others try to throw a cloak of the existing evil, and excuse the great wickedness everywhere prevalent, those who have a zeal for God’s honor and a love for souls, will not hold their peace to obtain favor of any.”

Let me give you a personal recent example of a sighing and crying issue occured in my presence. Awhile back a high leader in our church and I were chatting after service. The subject of proper keeping of the Sabbath came up. I mentioned that we should have a sermon in our church to help explain the meaning of keeping the Sabbath “holy”. l told him it’s not right that some of our members go to eat out on the Sabbath. He acted as if he was offended! He started rationalizng about how Jesus and the disciples went through the corn fields on the Sabbath. This justified (in his mind )  the  eating out as acceptable.

We can see from the above,  the perfect example EGW’s word “others try to throw a cloak of the existing evil.” What do you think God would have thought of me if I just nodded in agreement, or say “Yeah I see your point.” ?  Oh, woe to me,  I would become a NON sigher and cryer! This my friends, is an example of what will seperate us for the sealing or lack of.

Let’s not kid ourselves, God does not change ESPECIALLY His unchanging stance towards His Holy 10 Commandments. If  He wanted His people in Old Testament to obey them then, He certainly wants them obeyed today.

Let’s now look at some real concrete ways we can be on the look out for our fellow members, and sigh and cry in reaching out to them. But  one important thing to always remember is the  necessity to be a Commandment keeper FIRST. Those who sigh and cry and continually break the Commandments, are fooling themselves. Kinda like a guy with a megaphone standing atop a  ship that is going down saying “hey everybody be careful this ship is not safe”. The sigher is going down just as well as the others. Jesus made it so clear when he said in (Luke 6:42)”…cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shall thou see clearly to pull out the twig that is in thy brother’s eye.”

One of the prime areas of the  abominations are found  in God’s Sanctuary (church building). Jesus gave us a most profound example of not tolerating abominations   in God’s House or courts,in the example of whipping the money changers and over turning the cages of merchandise (Matt21:12).

Example number 1.  You are in the foyer of the church, you notice a man talking on his cell phone. After he is done you kindly walk over and let him know it’s better if he goes outside to talk on the phone. Most will accept this kind reproof, however if someone takes offense don’t argue, you’ve done your job. You sighing has been done, it is now between him and God.

Example number 2. You arrive at church and you see a brother ( NOT a first timer but who’s been there many times before) wearing shorts and sandals. You kindly approach him and say “you know brother, maybe it’s better if you can wear some more respectful clothes in God’s house, next time for Sabbath service.”  I know this takes a certain degree of courage and fortitude, but who are you trying to please God or man? If you need to be strengthened in the area of courage , pray and ask for it, you’ll receive it.

Example number 3. The church is having the church lunch. You sit at a table in the room next to the sanctuary. The guys at your table start talking about the football game and other sports. You kindly say “don’t forget guys it’s the Sabbath, anybody got a good bible story or question?”  This one will be sure to make them stop and think for sure just what the Sabbath is all about!

Admittingly, example 3 is difficult for some as you are kindly admonishing a group or at least more than one person. At the  minimum, we should at least excuse ourselves from that table, as to show the Lord we don’t agree with such world conversation on the Sabbath.

The above examples are but a few of the wrongs we see through out our churches. There will be something before you that the Lord, through the Holy Spirit, will call you to reprove.  We must ever be remindful that the Lord will “sprew out” the lukewarm among us. Lukewarm means to be kind of for Him but not totally. You “throw a cloak over the evils” you see in your midst, thinking “that’s his or her problem, not mine.”. The Lord will not be fooled. He is watching who are standing up for Him and not merely saying good words, but DOING good deeds.

It is not my words that point out that the ones who will be sealed are those who “sigh and cry for the abominations done in the midst.” IT IS THE LORD’S WORDS. So let us do as the Lord has said and call out the sins in our midst. Our silence or looking the other way does NOT go un noticed.

Let’s close with the prophetic words of sister White on the subject of sighing and crying. (Test. for the Church, vol.5, p.212) “The day of God’s vegeance is just upon us. The seal of God will be placed upon the foreheads of those ONLY who sigh and cry for the abominations done in the land. Those who link sympathy with the world are eating and drinking with the drunken (spiritually) and will surely be destroyed with the workers of iniquity…our own course of action will determine whether we shall receive the seal of the living God or be cut down by the destroying weapons.”

He loves each and every one of us and because of this,  He has guided His last day prophets to warn us and to set our course straight, to know how we can stay on the “straight and narrow”.

In Christ, Rob

In the above quote we find a great promise. That is once you show God you are sincere and “love” Him as He has asked, He then in return shows you Himself  by  revealings. These revealings certainly include His signs and wonders. They are given us to see Him through them, to know He is with us, to strengthen us.

You see our Lord likes to be held accountable, He wants so much to answer us  but He is stopped cold, because we don’t believe He will, or fail to “look” for them. We remember when He went down to Nazareth, His hometown, He was unable to do miracles because of their unbelief (Mark 6:5). So my question is –Why do so few Christians experience direct signs and wonders from our Lord? Is it because they are just like the people of Nazareth, they don’t believe? He is just as willing and able to give them TODAY as He was yesterday. Only believe.

While it is true that the Lord is holding back right now, to release His power collectively through the church, due to the sinners among His professed people(His church), He still hears His Commandment keepers and  as such they can call upon Him and receive His revealings for “refreshings and guiding” in our walk.

Now I shall do as Nebuchadnezzar did and say “I thought it good to show the signs and wonders, that the High God has done towards me”.(Dan. 4:2) Recently God has been gracious enough to answer some prayers of mine, that may strengthen your belief that HE DOES communicate through signs.

Awhile back I had planned on going on a long trip overseas but decided to go before the Lord in prayer, asking for His blessings. Let me stop here and say that in many of our more important plans (getting married, moving out of town, big trip, new job, etc.) we should ALWAYS go before the Lord  for His ok. Otherwise you’re on your own and good or bad will befall you without any warning from Him. You’re like the sea captain charting your own course, and maybe that big bad iceberg will be hit head on, due to your own planning.

Anyway back to the story. So I prayed, “Lord I am about to make plans to go overseas, please let me know if it is ok, give me a sign to know whether I should go.” I don’t remember if it was the very next day or the second day, but a good friend of mine called me in the morning. I had told him a few weeks earlier of my plans. As we start talking, soon he says OUT OF THE BLUE–”Hey, I got a real bad feeling about your trip, I just wanted to tell you that.”  Wow. I immediately looked up and said quitely “Thank you”.

As some of you know (who have been following this blog for the last 2 years) I have posted this year about the “Shepherd’s Rod”. After being led by God to delve into these teachings after listening to the sermon called “144,000, who are they?” I have made some posts about what I now know to be the “Elijah to come” end time message. But this was quite a revelation, as it generally has  NOT been the teachings of mainstream Adventism. So I was going into unchartered waters, but convinced by God’s leadings it was true.

Neverthe less, I doubted and struggled. I now know as propheticly shown by EGW (Early Writings, page 269), that the last day messengers of the Davidian truths will be attacked spiritually as the devils know that this last message must not be spread to the people. So as I was discovering these truths, serious doubts came. I needed God’s assurance on this big time! My readers were used to me teaching straight line SDA doctrines and teachings. Would I be committing “blog suicide”? Looked at as a ”way out there” guy? God’s power was to come through and remove all doubt through His signs! (The Blog is on pace to more than double the readership from last year, praise the Lord, who divinely guides it!)

So I prayed earnestly to the Lord, “Lord I want to know without doubt that these new teachings are for real, please guide  me, I need your help here”. He KNEW how important this was, I didn’t need to tell Him. I received several signs, let me share the 3 important ones.

After I had made the post on the 144,000. I received  a dream shortly after. In it I am helping a person find a key, as I scroll this large book with much writings I quickly spot a number which I poin t out to the person  that this is the number which holds the key. He is amazed because there were so many pages and I found it quickly. Now, we know dreams are not always completely understood, but I received from it that the “new teachings” I had were a “key” for the people to have. I was real happy to have gotten this dream from the Lord as confirmation.

But even after that I wanted more confirmation. I often tease the Lord and tell Him ” I’m like a  weak friend who needs support all the time” lol. But He smiles and says ” I’m right there for you, don’t worry.” So I continued to pray for more signs as doubts still would creep in. Then soon after another prayer asking for confirmation on Shepherd’s Rod teachings, a direct sign came, that thrilled me.

I went out that morning to go to work, as I pull out of the driveway and drive onto the road, a van pulls up next to me at the light. I look over and it has SHEPHERD’S plumbing. I had never seen this van before. Immediately I recall my recent prayer of asking for more confirmation. This I felt was a sign but it was to get even stronger. I drive on ahead and pull into the shopping center parking lot, and this van follows me and pulls up right next to me!  That was a clincher that it was a sign! God was saying that these teachings are true and they will stay close to you, amazing!

But this last one was the final clincher, and I have never doubted after this. The Lord kind of “cemeted” this issue for me. Let me say here that this spiritual battle was from the dark forces exerting their pressure on me, hence the severe beginning doubts on these teachings. After once again praying for strength and leadings in these new teachings, I got a ‘big” sign. I had been listening to the video called “Daniel’s vision” by brother  Glenroy Matthews on the computer (based on the Shepherd’s Rod teaching of the Daniel 2 vision).

After I had watched a portion of it, I had to stop it, as I was late for work. So I put it on pause thinking I would watch later. Later, after work I came home and walked into the house. As I come in, I hear this man speaking from my back office room. I was a little perplexed. I continued cautiously to walk into the room, I peak in and it is that same video of brother Matthews playing right where I left it on pause! I am in mild amazement as I knew it was the Lord’s doing. I was thrilled to know He had sent His angel to turn back on the video when I got home, confirming it was to be LISTENED TO.

As you can see from the above,  3 important steps are involved in this  ”sign”  communication from the Lord. First, I  request HIS GUIDANCE in some important matters. Second, I look for them knowing He WILL respond. Third, I believe that they are FROM Him and I act accordingly.

In these last days many are saying “Oh the Lord doesn’t work like this anymore, that was back in the old Apostle days, you needn’t look for these signs now.”  Let us read what Ellen White said on this matter. (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5 , page 211) “They (the teachers and leaders) had taken the position that we need not look for miracles and the MARKED MANIFESTATION of God’s power as in former days. Times have changed.  These words strengthen their unbelief and they say, ‘The Lord will not do good, neither will He do evil.”  So the people think then, that God doesn’t move about anymore in this regard, He’s asleep at the wheel! Let that not be YOUR belief.

In speaking of the last days  (2 Tim 3:2-5) we read ” for men shall be lovers of their own selves ….having a form of godliness, but denying the  power thereof, from such turn away.” He we read that the unbelief (denying) of God’s manifested power shall be prevalent among the professed people of God. They do not look for or even want God’s signs and wonders, they care not to know it!

In the very near future God will call upon His elect, the 144,000 to do His mighty powerful work. This will include signs and wonders and amazing miracles. He has longed for the time that the “world” will know and see His power. As His servants let us get in the habit NOW of calling upon Him for guidance in our walk, your walk will take on a whole new exciting level when you know He is able to show you His signs and wonders. Let us ONLY BELIEVE.

Lastly, let us keep in mind that when we do receive such revealings  from the Lord, we should SPREAD them. The Lord  said in (Luke 8:39) after performing a great sign “Return to your home, and show how God has done great things for you.”  We must also be ready to speak of His signs and share them to bring glory and honor to Him who is worthy! Amen.

In Christ, Rob

Before I learned what was said on that page, I was your typical SDA member who followed Doug Batchelor and his views on end time events. I also enjoyed Daniel and the Revelation, by Uriah Smith. But I was soon to see those views as vastly inferior, even error filled, compared to the obvious clear writings of Ellen and a man who many ,including myself, believe as the prophesised ”Elijah” to come–Victor Houteff. Let me show you plainly from Ellen’s inspired writings what really is the “game changer” in our understanding of end time events.

In Testimonies to Ministers, page 445, it reads ” This sealing (Rev.7:3-4) of God’s servants IS THE SAME that was shown to Ezekiel in vision. John also had been a witness to this most startling revelation.”  Ezekiel’s vision of sealing and marking is found in ONLY one place, that is chapter 9. If you want to know why  this revelation is “startling” read the 9th chapter! This is very solemn and opens to us a different path of events soon to take place. The 3 abn teachers and pastors, Doug, and Uriah completely leave out this important information. Why? There really is no logical reason, other than ignorance, or  maybe even purposeful worldly objectives(tithes, financial support, entertainment etc).

It seems very clear to many that today, the SDA churches are out to “bring em in” regardless of their converted postition or not. The attitude is–”bring em in, we’ll deal with their spiritual condition later, if ever, it’s not important.” Before I was made aware of God’s soon to come judgements in His church, I was out to win “babylon.” We put up a big billboard in town, ran newspaper ads, all to “bring em in”.

Ellen White said the following that really should shake us to our roots, as Seventh Day Adventists. In Christian Service, Page 41, Ellen says ” It is a solemn statement that I make TO THE CHURCH(SDA), that NOT ONE IN TWENTY whose names are registered upon the books are prepared to close their earthly history, and would be verily without God and without hope in the world as the common sinner.” –Wow! Now if that doesn’t awake us nothing will!

Look at it like this, let’s say you are on a ship and there are two other ships close by, one with your own family members on it, the other with strangers on it. Both are going down. Do you go and try to help the “stranger boat” or do you try to save your family boat? Obviously most all of us would pursue the family boat for obvious reasons. It is the same with our members in OUR CHURCH as opposed to the church members in the outside churchs or those in the world at large. They NEED our most immediate help NOW!

They need God’s end time truths and warnings of His surprising judgements  “in” His church. (Mal.3:1)  ”Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me, and the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple….” Then it goes on to describe the Lord ” purifying and purging” His people. This IS THE GREAT AND DREADFUL DAY. Notice it’s in His TEMPLE(church) not in the world (as in the last day).

We must sound the warnings,  blow the trumpet among our own. They are being led astray by the leaders who preach “smooth and comforting” sermons week after week. Instead we need “warning and pleading” sermons, for the ship  is about to go down and preparations MUST be made.

With this last day understanding  on the sealing being the same as Ezekiel saw, we must therefore tell the people straight out–the following. You CANNOT be right with God unless you hate sin and do all in your power to remove yourself from sin and unrighteous ways, calling upon God’s Holy Spirit to help you. Those who get the sealing mark of approval (as per Ezekiel vsion) are those who “sigh and cry” for the abominations (sins) done in the church, and of course their own lives as well. All others will NOT get the seal, rather God’s wrath in judgement.

We are to walk DAILY in the 10 Commandments, not professing them only but LIVING them. We are to warn our brothers and sisters, if we see their sinning. We are not to hold back our careful warnings and excuse their sinning, saying things like ” It’s ok, God loves you, He understands your weaknesses”.  This only sympathizes with the sinner and sin. How can they ever turn away from sin, if you give them such support? Can God count this as “sighing and crying” on your part for sins done in your midst? Is it real love and caring on your part, to let them continue on the wrong road that leads to destruction?

Look at the prophetess’ clear word on this subject (Testimonies for the church, vo.3, page 266) ” In vision I have been pointed to many instances where the displeasure of God has been incurred by an neglect on the part of His servants to DEAL WITH the wrongs and sins existing among them”.

The following really nails clarifies the  point. Same book (page 267) “Who are standing in the counsel of God at this time? Is it those who virtually excuse wrongs among the professed people of God and who murmer in their hearts, if not openly against those WHO WOULD REPROVE SIN ? Is it those who take their stand against them (the reprovers) and sympathize with those who commit wrong? No indeed! Unless they repent …they will fall in the general destruction of the wicked, represented by the work of the five men(angels) bearing slaughter weapons. MARK THIS POINT WITH CARE. Those who receive the pure mark of truth (Rev.sealing) wrought in them by the power of the Holy Ghost, represented by a mark by the man in linen (marking angel), are those who ‘sigh snd cry for all the abominations that be done’ in the church.”  It cannot get any clearer or plainer than this.

Dear fellow members of the our church, God has plans He will execute, and many of us are not aware of them today because our leaders , purposeful or not, ignore the “game changing” words of our prophetess-Ellen G. White on page 445 of Testimonie to Ministers. Please don’t be led by our shepherds of the flock, who keep you asleep, thinking you’re “Rich and wealthy, and have need of nothing”(Rev.3:16-17).

Instead listen to those  who are not afraid to steer you in the right path, regardless if it is popular or not. Their warnings are God’s last call before the “great and dreadful day of the Lord.” And that day is not  Jesus coming in the clouds on the last day, it is His solemn judgement day in His church BEFORE the seven last plaques begin.

In Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, page 211, Ellen writes describing Ezekiel 9, then says “Here we see that the church – The Lord’s Sanctuary – was the first to feel the stroke of the wrath of God.” So the judgement of the living begins in our church, and results in the execution of judgement as well! Hence it will be “great” for the faithful elect of God, and dreadful for the many lukewarm amongst us.

We are told in the very last part of the last book in the Old Testament in Malachi 4:5, “Behold I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and dreadful day of the Lord.” The message of “Elijah” is to be a warning and a preperation for the people, lest the Lord comes and strikes the earth with a curse. This warning is very well explained in this short video on Ezekiel http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRfjUBy3UCY&feature=email

Let each of us examine our lives , and if we are cherishing sin, make a speedy riddance of it, so we will be ready to receive God’s soon to be issued mark of salvation, the Revelation SEAL.

In Christ, your servant, Rob

The whole Christmas season has been so commercialized, to the point that the vast majority around the world, find in it a reason for carnal celebrations. Most definitely leaving out the namesake–CHRISTmas. No wonder many Christians cannot in good conscious take part in this vast heathen experience!

This subject is indeed a very controversial subject among many in Christendom. After earnest prayer and very careful study I would like to shed the light that I have been given on this subject.

What I am going to translate into this post, in the following story, is the combining of Scripture, S.O.P (Spirit of Prophecy) and Shepherd’s Rod teachings on “Christmas”. So we may see a more emcompassing ”big picture” of this important subject.  This post is compiled with the vision of the Lord’s Glory and honor upmost in mind.

We  can never believe God gives His prophets or prophetesses light (truth) in which to guide the people, and then later another prophet comes and contradicts such light, teaching something totally opposite of what a prior prophetess  of God has written in their inspired writings. Confusion would be the obvious result if such were the case. Instead of such confusion, can it be that Ellen White and Victor Houteff **, God’s last two prophets,  together do indeed , shine  light on a “honoring” Christmas, in a clear and undertstanding way?

Let us look at the  story of the “Smith family”. This is a story of how they “celebrate” Christmas. Before we look at it, let us look at two scripture verses to keep in mind as you read their story.

1) (Mark 9:40) “For he who is not against us, is for us”  Ask yourself after hearing the Smith Family story, are they against Christ during this season, or for Him?”

2)(1Samuel 16:7) “..The Lord judges the heart.”  Is the Smith Family wrong in their heart to completely “turn around” the heathen customs, and bring GLORY and HONOR  to our Lord?

It is the day after thanksgiving, the famous “black Friday”. The heathen around the world are busy buying their gifts, most NEVER even dwelling on the “Christ” in Christmas. The Smiths are also out buying, however they are looking for nativity sets. You see they, as always,  put up a nativity set in place of a Christmas tree. Their two small children love to help put up the display, remembering afresh, just what “Christmas” is all about–The Lord Jesus Christ.

Their buying also includes gifts for their KIDS ONLY. For they are well aware of God’s last prophet’s word about “gift exchanging”. (Christ’s greetings-tract 13). They are not exchanging, only “giving” to their own kids. They will take no part in reveling with the heathen or exchanging gifts.

During the season, they have lights around the nativity set, among the small presents. They frequently play “Christmas music” but it is all about Christ. Songs such as Jesus Is King, Ring Christmas Bells, The First Noel, O Holy Night, O Come All Ye faithful, Joy To The World, etc.  They shun the “Santa” songs and other heathen songs.

They are ever mindful that although Mr. and Mrs. Smith would not by themselves celebrate “Christmas”, it is for their kids sake, they have this Christmas. Raising them to feel even closer to our Lord during this season. They have remembered God’s word (Prov.22:6) “Raise up a child in the way he should go and when he is older, he shall not depart from it”. They also remember how Ellen White said glory and honor can be given Christ for Christmas.

On Christmas morning, they gather around the nativity scene, with the holy music playing, the kids open the presents. After, the parents read the story of Christ’s birth from the book of Luke. The young ones listen attentively as their young minds imagine the baby Jesus story.

So we can see from the above, that the Smiths have found a way to bring glory to our Lord, despite the heathen customs. While it is true that Decemebr 25th, most likely is not Christ’s birthday, they know that it is before them, and as such, an opportunity to bring honor and glory to our Lord. Their kids could very well be scarred, being left out of this season, instead they can win all around.

Now, after seeing and understanding this, who among us will be the first to throw a stone at the Smiths? No, we must say all honor and praise to You, our most wonderful and powerful Lord- Jesus Christ. We are FOR you , not against you. May we be a good example in this Christmas season to all the heathen around us.

Questions and answers:

1) Why shouldn’t we have Christmas tree’s?

  We are told in many inspired writings not to partake in heathen customs and practices. The “tree” for Christmas nowdays,  is certainly symbolic of a heathen type of Christmas. Additionally ,(Jer. 10:1-5) clearly says that decorating a tree is a heathen custom. It is ALWAYS safer to be on the side of caution, than  presumption.

2) What about going to church on Christmas?

 If you are led by the Holy Spirit to go and praise Him among others, then by all means go. Again, this is each one’s own decision.

3) What about the brothers and sisters sending out warnings against celebrating Christmas?

They CANNOT be faulted for this. Their motive most likely is one of warning the people not to DO as the heathen are doing all around, with all their customs. This post provides “additional light” for those who choose to decide to honor and glorify our Lord during this season.

4) What about Christmas lights on the home and yard?

Again, this has symbolically become a symbol of the “heathen” Christmas. It should be avoided.

5) What about brother Houteff’s warning  message to us on “Christmas observance?”

In “Christ’s greetings” book  (tract 13) I find no direct warning AGAINST Christmas observance, only the “involvement” of it (the heathen type). Mr. Houteff explains “…The fact that Christmas is not, in reality, observed to the honor of the Saviour, but to the glorification of a heathen custom and to gratification of the carnal heart. Consequently, “altogether -Christians” cannot therefore consistently participate in celebrating the Christmas myth. “   Here is the clear message,   that because those that celebrate Christmas, leaving out ‘honor of the Saviour’ are practicing carnal gratification, THIS type of Christmas must not  be participated in. If we PUT IN the honor of our Saviour during this season, our LORD can be glorifed and honored. The “exchanging” of gifts is to be avoided. He says “..The Lord’s servants will invariably shun the exchanging of Christmas gifts.”

6) We have read that Ellen White has written many things about how Christmas can be kept, if Christ is honored. Yet, Victor Houteff seems to say –stay away from it. How do you reconcile these contradictions?

Perhaps the best way is to  read again the “Smith story”. I believe if Christmas is celebrated as shown by them, it does indeed honor and bring glory to our Lord. And keeping the true intentions of the Lord’s message through His prophets. In (1 Cor.10:31) we read “..whatsoever you do, do ALL to the glory of God.” Christmas certainly can be included in “all”.

In closing, may we ever bring to the heathen our good example of  being Christ’s representatives, in all things, even in Christmas observance.

In Christ,  Rob

** For those of you who are not aware of who Victor Houteff was, see our post  “Has Elijah Come?”  under the heading–Elijah.

“Ellen White’s prayers were also clearly remembered by people who heard her pray. H.M.S. Richards Sr, voice of prophecy radio program founder, was a teenager in 1909 when he heard Ellen White pray at a camp meeting in Boulder, Colorado. Richards recalled that he sat on the front row,right in front of the pulpit  where Ellen white spoke.

After finishing her sermon, she said ” I want to pray before I sit down.” Richards was impressed by the fact that she started by saying, “O my Father…” not “our Father”, but “my Father.”  He said it was as though she was talking with a personal friend. Infact, he recalled that her prayer was so intimate, and so moving, that he was afraid to open his eyes for fear of seeing God standing right there by Ellen White. Soon, Richards said, quiet sobs were heard in the audience:men and women repenting of their sins.

A great revival spread over the audience as a result of Ellen White’s prayer. As Richards summed up the story, he said that when Ellen White spoke, she was just a dear, sweet grandmother talking to the people. But when she prayed, God honored her as His prophet.”

In the above story, can we not see and feel how powerful and moving were Ellen’s word’s to “her” Father? We can gain some insight here.  Ellen was on a one to One basis. In other words she felt connected as she prayed. I believe this connection resulted from her firm conviction in believing and LIVING His Commandments. Everyday she devoutly practiced the Law of God. She did indeed “know Him”.

In (1 John 2:3-4) we read a clear passage of God’s word “how to” know Him. “For this is how we know we know Him, IF we keep His Commandments, those who say ‘I know Him’ and do not keep His Commandments, are a liar, and the truth is not in him.”

Once we know Him, it just naturally flows, as we kneel in prayers. Our connection is as one. We come before Him with our hands clean, we’ve done our best that day in avoiding temptation. We’ve kept His Law firmly in our heart and mind. God’s Holy Spirit has been with us and given us strength. Prayer seems the same as speaking intimately to a loved one, just as Ellen White has shown.

But sadly, the opposite is just as true. (Isaiah 59:2) “But your iniquities have seperated you from your God, and your sins have hid His face from you, so that He will not hear you.” Unfortunately, this case is so prevalent worldwide. We come before the Lord repentless and sinful. Can we then expect Him to hear and act? His word says no.

Our God is a searching God,  carefully watching whether we really love Him as His word has clearly shown us  –(John 14:15) “If you love me, keep my Commandments”. Once He see’s we really do, He’s all ears for us, ready to communion with us through prayer.

Here’s one more eye witness account of  Ellen’s moving prayer, showing her very close connection to God through prayer.

“Another who was profoundly moved by hearing Ellen White pray was Alma McKibbin, one of Adventism’s first church school teachers in California, and author of the denomination’s first Bible textbooks for use by elementary teachers. At the time Mckibbin was living in Healdburg, California. In fact, she was renting Ellen White’s old home from her. But on this occasion McKibbin was ill. Consequently, she decided to go to the St. Helena sanitarium for treatments.

But when she arrived, the sanitarium was full. So McKibbin ended up having to stay for a few days with Sarah Peck, a friend of hers who was working as a secretary for Ellen White.

Peck lived in a small cottage just opposite Ellen White’s “Elmshaven”home.  Because of her illness, McKibbin couldn’t sleep.When in the early morning hours a light came on in Ellen White’s writing room, McKibbin recalled it being a comfort just knowing that someone else was awake.

Before Ellen White began to write, she prayed out loud. McKibbin later recalled that she never had heard such a prayer in her life.This was not a public prayer being said for the benefit of an audience.  Quite the opposite: Ellen White had no idea that anyone else was listening. But through the clear night air McKibbin heard almost every word.

As Ellen White prayed that morning, she prayed for the leaders of our church, that they would always be faithful and true in their roles as leaders. Ellen White also prayed for the pastors and teachers, that they would always uphold the truth.And before closing, she prayed for the young people of our church. McKibbin recalled how earnestly Ellen White implored God on behalf of the young people, that they would accept Jesus as their personal Savior and never let go of Him.

McKibbin said that after hearing Ellen White pray, for the first time in her life she began to understand the deep burden a prophet bears for an entire people. Although she’d read about the burden of Isaiah or the burden of Jeremiah for the people of Israel, hearing Ellen White pray that early morning gave McKibbin a glimpse into just what that means.”

In closing, Let us learn from our blessed sister Ellen White, that as we fully commit our life to Him we also can come to the point in our life where, just like Ellen White, we’ll kneel and pray — “O  MY  FATHER”  and we will know He clearly hears us.

In Christ, Rob