Christadelphians Talk

A @Christadelphians Video: ## YouTube Video DescriptionJoin **we, the Christadelphians**, for this **outstanding** and **thought-provoking** Bible exposition with Sam Tomkins as we continue our series on *Peter after the Resurrection*. In part four, ‘Healing and Hope in Sharon', we witness God's **wonderful** preparation of Peter for a watershed moment—the opening of the gospel to the Gentiles.This **revealing** study traces Peter's journey through Lydda and Joppa, where two miraculous healings (Aeneas and Tabitha) become powerful pictures of the spiritual condition of the nations—lame and dead, yet raised to walk before God. With **insightful** connections to Cornelius in Caesarea, we see how God spare no effort to transform Peter's heart, moving him from ritual separation to embracing the very people he once avoided.You'll be captivated by the **expositional** depth as we uncover Old Testament echoes—Psalm 41, Exodus 30, Leviticus 20—and the stunning symbolism of Joppa as the place where Gentile raw material was brought for the temple. This is a **wonderful** reminder that our Heavenly Father works patiently behind the scenes in our lives too, preparing us for His purposes.Whether you're a long-standing believer or new to Scripture, this video will inspire and strengthen your faith. Don't miss the climactic moment when Peter declares, “Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.”##

A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Description**Join us, a Christadelphian team, for this outstanding and thought-provoking expositional study: *The Apostle Peter, After the Resurrection #3 – ‘Standing Firm: Hypocrisy Within, Persecution Without'*. This insightful video reveals how Peter and the early ecclesia navigated the terrifying reality of external persecution alongside the even more dangerous threat of internal hypocrisy. We witness the unstoppable power of God's Word – it cannot be silenced by prisons, councils, or deceit. This is a wonderful, inspiring call to examine our own hearts and stand firm, no matter the cost.**Chapters:**00:00 – Introduction: Peter's Post-Resurrection Question02:00 – The Unstoppable Word: Persecution Cannot Silence Truth04:30 – Hypocrisy From Within: The Danger of a False Name08:00 – Ananias and Sapphira: Love Turned to Greed14:30 – Laying Down Life: Peter's Journey From Denial to Devotion19:00 – Hypocrisy as a System: Devouring the Sheep23:00 – The Shadow of Peter: Healing, Refuge, and the Great Rock28:00 – Angelic Intervention: Prison Doors Opened32:00 – Standing Before the Council: “We Ought to Obey God”38:00 – Rejoicing to Suffer: Fighting Against God?42:00 – Conclusion: Standing Firm – From Without and Within**Bible Verse Categories:**

The messages that were sent to the 7 different communities of believers detailed in Ch. 2 & 3 of Revelation are remarkable.  We conclude that these are representative of the various types of communities of believers that have existed ever since that era.   One particular message caught our attention today, the words that were written to Sardis (Ch.3 v.1).  You “have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead” – what a message!   But, the message also includes, “you still have a few names in Sardis, people who have not soiled their garments (of righteousness), and they will walk with me in white, for they are worthy.” [v.5].  Of such, Jesus says, “I will confess his name before my father” [v.5].   What will Jesus “confess”?  What is a “name”?  We recall the promise God made to King David, “I will make for you a great name, like the names of the great ones of the earth” [2Sam.7 v.9].  This is “name” in the sense of reputation or fame, as many modern versions translate it.   Quite a number of Scriptures tell us how God made a name for himself, we will soon read an example of this in Isaiah – Ch. 63 v12,14.In the light of these examples we conclude that when Jesus says of those few in Sardis that he will “confess” their “name before my father” – he means he will confess the reputation that such have made for themselves.  We meditate and imagine it will be names or reputations such as “patient endurance” [Rev. 2 v.2] “not grown weary” [v.3] “hold fast” [v.25] and many other particular qualities of a Christ-like character. Such, says Jesus, I will make a pillar in the temple of my God” [3 v.12,21] adding, “… and I will write on him the name of my God … and my own new name…. I will grant him to sit with me on my throne.” May we all, in true humility, so live that we make a worthy reputation for ourselves in the sight of our Saviour that he will  lovingly confess before his Father when he returns to this earth.  At that time with what overwhelming emotion will we join in the proclamation we read of this morning, “'Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!'”  [Ch.4 v.8]

A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Description**Join **We**, the Christadelphians, for this **outstanding** and **thought-provoking** second instalment in our series on the apostle Peter after the Resurrection. In this **insightful**, **expositional** study, Sam Tomkins unpacks the powerful fusion of signs, wonders, and fierce opposition that defined Peter's early ministry in Acts. From the healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate to Peter's bold stand before the very Sanhedrin who condemned his Lord, this **revealing** journey shows how the risen Christ worked through His apostles to proclaim salvation. **Wonderfully**, we see Peter transformed—no longer wavering, but unashamedly declaring that only the name of Jesus can make us whole. Discover how the first miracle of both Peter and Paul echoes the same truth: we are all spiritually lame from birth, yet raised by the power of the resurrection. This is a **wonderful** reminder that when the world threatens to silence us, the true ecclesia prays not for safety, but for boldness to keep speaking.**

First, we read today of the climax to the life of Naomi and her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth, an example of how tragedy can turn out, in the end, to be a blessing and become one of the building blocks, as it were, as part of God's overall plan and purpose – and so Ruth became the great grandmother of David.  God oversees human life and, “for those who love God all things work together for good” [Romans 8 v.28];  essentially this is for the good of his purpose.In our Isaiah reading we see how the Almighty stresses he is the originator of all that exists – and has an ultimate purpose in view. “I am the LORD and there is no other.  I form the light and create darkness, I make well-being and create calamity.  I am the LORD who does all these things.” [45 v.6,7]  We also noted that he says, “it was my hands that stretched out the heavens” [v.12] and nearly all scientists are now agreed that everything spread out, apparently to infinity, from a big bang! But most think it was by ‘chance'!We noted in particular v.15, “Truly you are a God who hides yourself”  We have to apply our minds to realize there must be a Creator, an utterly incredible designer.  The efforts over the last 150 years to prove beyond doubt that Darwinian evolution is true – have ended in dismal failure – although not all are honest enough to admit this – but a surprising number are. The question in v.9 is so interesting, so appropriate for God to ask – “Woe to him (or her) who strives with him who formed him, a pot among earthen pots!  Does the clay say to him who forms it, ‘What are you making?' or ‘Your work has no handles'? “ We know that God's work has “handles” – we mentally grasp them the more diligently we read the Bible!  How good is your grasp?  We all need to work at getting a really firm grip on the true meaning of life – and then to feel inspired by our heart-felt awareness of what God is making – and the utterly awesome wonders to come when his work is complete, described to us, largely in symbolic language, as we read on in the book of Revelation. 

The 25 verse epistle of Jude, the “brother of James” [v.1] and therefore understood to be another son of Mary and Joseph, is extremely interesting and challenging.   Jude is very succinct, first drawing lessons from the failures in the nations' history [v.5-7] and then condemning the false ways that are developing among the believers.We are fascinated by the parabolic language used from v. 12 on.  Jude does not write a complete parable as such, but uses words and phrases to describe the serious attitudes and behaviour that was developing among believers.  We read, “these are blemishes on your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear, looking after themselves, waterless clouds, swept along by the winds, fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever.“This is a tragic testimony to human nature, but history testifies to its truth at several stages of history, such as the development to establish the dictatorial church at Rome and its rituals – and then again – after the inspiring flood of renewed faith in the Middle Ages that began with the work of Wickliffe and Tyndale and the printing of the Bible!  But that was followed by a renewal of those “who pervert the grace of God into sensuality …” [v.4] And so today there is a lot of talk (and written material) about “grace” – but little or no substance about what God's word says is to be believed. Jude builds up his message to include words that clearly apply to our generation, referring to the letters of the Apostles that “in the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions…” [v.18] Others can talk about “grace”, perverting the wonder of it – as though believers have the benefit of grace whatever they do!  But the message for us now, especially in v.20,21 is, “But you beloved build yourself up in your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit (holiness of spirit); keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.” 

In our current generation, we face the unclean froglike teachings such as: Critical Pedagogy, Postcolonial Theory, Critical Race Theory and Queer Theory. We need to stand apart from these, be uplifted and guided from the principles found in the Bible. Then we will “keep our garments” and be ready for Jesus' return. A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] We, as Christadelphians, found this final instalment of the Watchman Report to be an outstanding and wonderfully revealing exposition of the spiritual battle raging for our minds. This thought-provoking and insightful presentation cuts through the noise of modern culture, exposing how the “frog‑like spirits” of Western Marxism and critical theory are reshaping society, education, and even our understanding of truth. Using the sword of the Spirit – our Bibles – we are called to watch, to fight, and to stand firm until our Lord returns. If you're seeking clarity in a confused world, this video is a must‑watch.**Chapters** 00:00 – Introduction 00:27 – The Battle for Our Minds 01:00 – The Sixth Vial and Christ's Message 01:54 – Frog‑like Spirits: A Challenge for Believers 02:50 – Western Marxism and Antonio Gramsci 04:30 – The War of Position: Redefining “Normal” 05:39 – Civil Society as the Battleground 06:12 – All Education is Political 07:35 – Critical Pedagogy 08:55 – Postcolonial Theory 10:53 – Critical Race Theory 12:31 – Queer Theory 13:36 – Fighting with the Sword of the Spirit 15:04 – The Blessing of Watching 16:10 – Conclusion and Call to Action**Bible Verse Category**

A @Christadelphians Video: ## YouTube SummaryWe, as Christadelphians, bring you this **outstanding** and **thought-provoking** exposition of Ezekiel's prophecy against Tyre. Is it a spectacular success or a failure of Bible prophecy? Bible scholar Stephen Palmer delivers a **revealing**, verse-by-verse analysis that answers the critics and demonstrates the **wonderful** precision of God's Word.Many claim this prophecy never came true – that Tyre still stands and Nebuchadnezzar failed. But a careful, **insightful** reading of Scripture (Ezekiel 26–29) uncovers five distinct judgments, the “wave upon wave” of many nations (like the sea), and the crucial shift from “he” (Nebuchadnezzar) to “they” (later nations). We trace the history from Babylon to Alexander the Great, who scraped the *mainland* city of Old Tyre into the sea – fulfilling the prophecy that it would become “like the top of a rock, a place to spread nets.” Modern archaeology confirms Old Tyre's location six kilometres south of today's UNESCO site, where nothing remains but a nature park. The Bible is true; the critic is wrong.This **expositional** study will strengthen your faith in God's reliable Word and point you to the greater hope: Christ's coming kingdom.## Chapters00:00 – Introduction – Prophecy as proof the Bible is God's Word 01:15 – The challenge: critics say Tyre prophecy failed 02:02 – Tyre's ancient wealth and maritime power 05:45 – Ezekiel 26:1-6 – Tyre gloats over Jerusalem's fall 07:02 – Nebuchadnezzar: the first “wave” (verses 7-11) 08:40 – The shift from “he” to “they” (verse 12) 10:17 – Does Ezekiel 29 admit failure? 13:57 – Five things prophecy said would happen 16:03 – Nebuchadnezzar does only two of five 20:26 – “They” (later nations) do the other three 25:07 – Alexander the Great destroys mainland Old Tyre 27:12 – Building the causeway – waves and storm 30:01 – Where was Old Tyre? Archaeology pinpoints it 34:39 – God says “I will” – the sea's surge fulfils His word 38:37 – Today: a nature park, never rebuilt, never found 41:45 – Conclusion: The Bible is true, the critic is wrong 42:17 – Trustworthy prophecy and the hope of Christ's kingdom ## Bible Verse Category

A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Description**Join us (Christadelphians) for this thought-provoking and **expositional** study of the apostle Peter after the Resurrection. In this first part, *From Fisherman to Shepherd*, we witness Peter's wonderful transformation—from impulsive fisherman to a humble, restored shepherd of Christ's flock. Through an insightful analysis of John 21, we uncover revealing lessons on failure, grace, and the true meaning of love. This outstanding presentation digs deep into Peter's personality, his denial, and his private restoration by the risen Lord. You'll be encouraged by how Jesus gently rebuilds Peter's calling, turning his shame into a powerful commission to “feed my sheep.” Whether you're feeling broken or called to serve, this video offers a timeless, hope-filled message.**

We have another thought provoking chapter in Isaiah today.  The lessons of God's dealings with Israel because of their unfaithfulness in the days of the prophet have their lessons for us.  Through the prophet God tells the people, “you have burdened me with your sins, you have wearied me with your iniquities” [43 v.24]Then the next verse jumps out at us!  ”I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake and I will not remember your sins.”   The people have been told “ ‘you are my witnesses,' declares the LORD, ‘and I am God.  Also, henceforth I am he; there is none who can deliver from my hand; I work, and who can turn it back?'” [v.12,13]  The continued existence of the people is the work of God.  Although scattered, their miraculous rebirth as a nation and ‘strong' existence over the last 70 years is one of the main witnesses to us of God's purpose, and that these are indeed “the last days.”It is folly for any so-called ‘christian' movement to call themselves God's ‘witnesses.'  But we can be sure of this, the other ‘witness' to the works and wisdom of God, apart from his chosen nation, is his word – and those who carefully and thoughtfully read it – discover more and more  how it comes ‘alive' in their minds as the years pass.We read the final 2 short letters of John, penned it is believed in his old age when false teachings were beginning to emerge, he makes points that are very appropriate to our days. His final letter is written; “To the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth “  He tells him [v.3,4] how “I rejoiced greatly” when I heard “you are walking in the truth,” adding, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”God's word unfolds his purposes before us in a way that invites our diligent reading – leading us to the real truth of what we should understand and believe – and the Lord's mercy to sinners – and then to live and to walk with the conviction in our hearts – of that belief.   How challenging to us are Paul's words about “the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for his sake I have suffered the loss of all things … in order than I may gain Christ.” [Phil. 3 v.8]  What are we doing to “gain Christ” – even if it means suffering loss?

This episode concludes this series..A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] Have you ever wondered why there are so many different versions of the Bible? In this thought-provoking and insightful presentation, Jason Hensley concludes his series by exploring the vital role of diversity in Bible translation committees. This expositional discussion reveals how including translators from different backgrounds—women, ethnic minorities, and diverse perspectives—can illuminate nuances in the original Hebrew and Greek that might otherwise be missed.From understanding why the ESV alternates between "sons of men" and "children of men," to the profound difference between translating Song of Solomon 1:5 as "black but lovely" versus "black and lovely," this video demonstrates how translation choices shape our understanding of Scripture. Jason also examines fascinating passages like Jeremiah 13:23 (can the Ethiopian change his skin?) and how the Hebrew grammar offers a different, more beautiful reading. This is a wonderful and revealing exploration of why having multiple translations is not a weakness, but an outstanding strength that helps us draw closer to what God is truly teaching us.

# The Christadelphians: #14a 'The Holy Spirit and Guidance' - Harry TennantIn this thought-provoking and insightful exposition, we delve into the scriptural teaching on the Holy Spirit—its purpose, its gifts, and its guidance for believers. This outstanding presentation by Harry Tennant reveals the biblical foundation for understanding how God's Spirit operated in the first century and how it continues to guide us today through His revealed Word.**What you'll discover in this revealing study:**- The historical fulfilment of the Spirit's outpouring at Pentecost- The purpose of spiritual gifts in establishing the early church- The scriptural evidence for the cessation of miraculous gifts- How to test spiritual claims against Bible teaching- The wonderful guidance available to us through Scripture aloneWe explore the crucial distinction between the miraculous gifts of the apostles and the enduring guidance found in God's written Word—a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. This is essential viewing for anyone seeking to understand the Holy Spirit's role in the life of a believer today.---## Chapters00:00 - Introduction: The Promise of the Holy Spirit00:34 - Pentecost: The Fulfilment of the Promise02:07 - The Apostles' Doctrine and Attesting Signs03:06 - The Need for Spiritual Gifts in the Early Church04:31 - The Distribution of Gifts Among Believers06:21 - The Cessation of Miraculous Gifts08:00 - Evaluating Modern Claims of Tongues and Healing10:28 - The Test of Bible Teaching12:51 - Testing the Spirits (1 John 4:1)13:54 - Doctrinal Errors Among Modern Movements14:42 - Claims to Special Guidance by the Spirit15:43 - The Bible: The Spirit's Book of Guidance16:34 - The Danger of Overriding Scripture17:20 - God's Promise to Those Who Love Him18:21 - Making Choices as Disciples18:49 - The Exercise of the Mind in Light of Scripture19:04 - Clear Bible Teaching on Choosing Rightly20:36 - The Bible: Our Divine Instructor21:05 - Prayerful Decision-Making Without Revelation21:57 - Paul's Commendation to the Word of Grace35:51 - Conclusion---## Bible Verses Referenced

**What you'll discover:**We begin by revisiting Revelation 16 and the three unclean spirits “like frogs” – which we previously connected to the French Revolution's ideals of liberty, fraternity, and equality. These spirits, we suggest, are now actively uniting the world against Israel. Using a second approach – observing current events – we find this framework confirmed in a **revealing** way.From the UN's disproportionate condemnation of Israel (as noted by Prime Minister Netanyahu) to the shocking scenes in London, Sydney, and New York just days after the October 7th massacre, we see prophecy unfolding before our eyes. We examine surveys showing that over half of young adults in the US and UK believe Israel should not exist – a **wonderful** (in the sense of awe-inspiring) confirmation that the nations are aligning exactly as Scripture foretold.We then trace the modern spirit of “woke” back to its roots in the French Revolution and Marxism, showing how this oppressor-oppressed framework has turned against the Jewish people and the nation of Israel. What appears as anti‑Zionism is often a repackaged form of ancient antisemitism – and we explain how the Soviet Union's propaganda after the Six‑Day War seeded much of what we see today.Finally, we ask: what does this mean for Bible believers? How does this cultural revolution challenge those who seek to follow the Lord Jesus Christ in a world gone mad? This is a **revealing** and practical application that will strengthen your resolve to stand on God's Word.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction: world news from a biblical standpoint 00:20 – Recap: the three frog‑like spirits from Revelation 16 and the French Revolution 00:59 – A second approach: observing the world uniting against Israel 01:36 – From the French Revolution to the UN Human Rights framework 02:17 – Nations gathering against Israel – what Revelation 16 foretells 02:49 – Netanyahu on the UN's disproportionate bias against Israel 03:40 – The October 7th attack and the world's frightening reaction (London, Sydney, New York) 04:51 – EU survey: antisemitism as a “big problem” for 90% of French Jews 05:40 – Young people's views in the US and UK: over half want Israel ended 06:25 – Prophecy being fulfilled before our eyes 06:45 – Rising antisemitism and fear among Jews worldwide 07:11 – What is “woke”? The oppressor vs. oppressed worldview 08:18 – Why woke turns against Israel (and Jews) despite Jews being a tiny minority 08:51 – Anti‑Zionism: the Soviet Union's legacy after the Six‑Day War 10:23 – Modern antisemitism disguised as “anti‑Zionism” – old tropes, new words 11:05 – How woke connects to the French Revolution and Marxism 12:50 – Western Marxism, critical theory, postmodernism – the roots of woke 13:36 – The cultural revolution: pronouns, emails, and a changed society 14:04 – Israel‑hatred as a primary cause for the woke movement 14:28 – The “frogs” in action – uniting the world against Israel 14:35 – Relevance for Bible believers: challenges of following Christ in a woke world 14:54 – Conclusion and call to action (subscribe, like, share) 15:32 – Closing remarks: the Watchman Report sign‑offBible Verse Category

A Christadelphian Video:Abraham believed in the Gospel: the Bible establishes the links between his beliefs and the first century teachings of Christ and the Apostles. This reveals consistence between the old and new testament, establishing the principle themes of the Gospel -- God's kingdom on earth, ruled by an heir of Abraham and David, forever. See the worksheet here. https://originalgospelblog.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/abraham-worksheet.pdfVisit https://originalgospel.blog/ for more blogs on key Bible Subjects

A @Christadelphians Video: 4. The three unclean froglike spirits originated in France, particularly during the French Revolution, where the rallying cry was: Liberty! Fraternity! Equality! The common people sought rulership by the principle of “human rights”, and the established political and religious authorities were overthrown. [Inspiring] We, as Christadelphians, bring you a truly thought-provoking and insightful exposition of one of Revelation's most overlooked yet critical symbols: the frog-like spirits. This outstanding presentation unpacks the identity of these unclean spirits with wonderful clarity, revealing how Scripture itself points to a specific historical moment – the French Revolution – and the three enduring spirits of liberty, fraternity, and equality. Join us as we prayerfully explore the biblical framework, the fascinating connection between frogs and France, and the powerful parallels between the sixth trumpet and sixth vial. This is a revealing study that will challenge and strengthen your understanding of end-time prophecy.**

Everyone believes in something.  Many believe that they are part of the highest form of animal life – and that this life is all there is for them and so they live to make the most of it. Our chapter (5) in John's letter today begins, “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him.” [v.1]  Here is a word picture of a precious fellowship of believers bound together in love.  Our thoughts go to Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus that John recorded in his gospel; remember what Nicodemus was told? “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter the Kingdom of God.” [ch.3 v.3]  “Born of water” refers to baptism – to put on the name of Christ.  That physical act must be accompanied by a rebirth of the mind, anew way of thinking; Paul spelt it out plainly in writing to the Ephesians, “… be renewed in the spirit of your minds… put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” [4 v.23,24]In his Epistle John goes on to say, “this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments.  And his commandments are not burdensome” [v.3] as had been the laws and rituals in keeping the laws through Moses.  Verse 4 challenges us!  “For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world.  And this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith.”  True faith flows out from a heart that is full of the “conviction of things not seen” [Heb 11 v.1] John writes, sure that his readers have this conviction of faith and says  he “writes these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.” [v.13] That is a challenging concept of thought!  “Death” becomes in a sense non-existent, as this life is completed we move into God's time, which is time-less, it is like “the twinkling of an eye” death “has “no sting” [1 Cor. 15 v.52,55] May we all be treading with ever surer steps on the narrow way because we have been truly “born of God” and “God protects him and the evil does not touch him” [v.18].  Furthermore, “we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ” [v.20] for we truly have “been born of God.” [v.1]   

The letters of John, in his old age,  “the disciple whom Jesus loved” [John 21 v.7,20] are fruitful of a range of heart-warming meditations.  John writes, “… let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God” [ch.4 v.7]What is it to “know” God?  It is to have a true ongoing spiritual relationship with him, it is a “spiritual marriage” through fully loving and developing a ‘knowing' relationship with his Son. A true intellectual understanding is the essential foundation for this – but it is only the foundation: we must ‘build upon' that foundation, having made sure it is not a faulty foundation. Jesus is our “mediator” – he is not God, in a very real sense he represents God (John 14 v.8-10) ,  remember Paul's words to Timothy (1st Epistle ch. 2 v.5).John then makes another vital point, “anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.  In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him.” [v.8,9] God initiated the true spirit of love – but today ‘love' is a much misused word.  “In Christ, God was reconciling the world unto himself,”  Paul told the Corinthians (2nd. Ep.5 v.19].   Late in the 1st Century this ‘reconciling' was already being distorted. John, in his old age, wrote to warn them that “many false prophets have gone out …” [4 v.1] and succeeding centuries saw the situation go from bad to worse.  What a blessing it was when God's word could be printed and made widely available, now we each can read and get the full sense of what God inspired the disciples, the prophets and others to write. The onus is on us to read it – and allow the words to ‘live' in our minds and influence all our thoughts.Our Judges chapter contained a terrible example of a world without the influence of God – and today's world is just that.  This world will soon, maybe very soon, face God's judgements.  Let us all “abide in love … there is no fear in love, for perfect love casts out fear.” [v.16,18]. So as this world really experiences God's judgements, we will have “no fear”!  This is a most challenging concept!  Recall what we read in Peter last week, “Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good?  But even if you should suffer for righteousness sake, you will be blessed.  Have no fear of them, nor be troubled.” [1 Pet. 3 v. 13,14]

A @Christadelphians Video: 3. Revelation warns us to watch out for the unclean froglike spirits which gather the nations to Armageddon. “Spirits” in the Bible refer to teachings. These are lying, deceitful teachings which only bring corruption.[Inspiring] Thought-provoking and wonderfully expositional, this Watchman Report presents Part 3 of 'The Lord's Direct Message to Us', focusing on the startling symbol of 'The Frog-like Spirits' from Revelation 16. We explore the drying up of the Euphrates, its historical fulfilment in the decline of the Ottoman Empire, and how this sets the stage for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. This outstanding and revealing study uncovers the hidden danger of unclean teachings that could cause us to lose our garments and be found ashamed at His coming. Using insightful Old Testament links—from the plague of frogs in Exodus, to the lying spirit in 2 Chronicles, and the tragic nakedness in Genesis—we see what we must watch out for in our generation. If you seek a serious, Scripture-based understanding of end-time prophecy and the battle of Armageddon, this video is for you.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction to the Watchman Report00:19 - The Sixth Vial and the River Euphrates01:41 - Unlocking the Symbol: Isaiah and the Ottoman Empire05:49 - The Return to Jerusalem (1917)06:57 - The Lord's Warning: Watch, or Be Found Naked09:39 - The Three Unclean Spirits Like Frogs10:42 - What Do 'Spirits' Mean in Scripture?12:40 - The Temple Guard and the Danger of Losing Our Garments14:10 - Old Testament Background #1: Exodus 8 (The Plague of Frogs)17:02 - Old Testament Background #2: 2 Chronicles 18 (The Lying Spirit)20:21 - Old Testament Background #3: Genesis 3 (Nakedness and Shame)22:26 - Why This Symbol Matters for Our Generation22:47 - Conclusion and Next Video Preview**Bible Verse Category:**

A @Christadelphians Video: 2. The Book of Revelation contains the prophecy about the Battle of Armageddon. It will be a time when the world is gathered together in a great battle against Israel. This battle is also described in other parts of the Bible: Joel 3, Zechariah 14 and Ezekiel 38. This will also be the time when the Lord Jesus Christ returns to earth. [Inspiring] **Thought-provoking, insightful, and wonderfully expositional** – this second instalment of *The Lord's direct message to us* dives deep into one of Scripture's most dramatic prophecies: **The Battle of Armageddon**. We continue our journey through Revelation, uncovering the Lord Jesus Christ's own words to our generation. With a revealing look at the sixth vial (Revelation 16:12–16) and its connection to Joel, Zechariah, and Ezekiel, we see how the gathering of nations, the return of Christ, and the judgment of the world are powerfully woven together. This is an outstanding study for anyone seeking clarity on end-time events from a faithful, Scripture-centred perspective.###

It is being said that this is a world for young people:  meaning that the young people are growing up in a much different world and are being trained to cope with and make use of all the technological wonders of the 21st Century.  Never before has the world changed so much in one generation.  But most young people are living for the here and now.  The attitude of most is – what experience is it possible to have this month, this year – and maybe, next year?   We read in the book of Judges today of those living with the thought of what they could achieve now when “everyone did what was right in their own eyes.” [17 v.6] with the spirit that might was right as illustrated in Ch. 18 v.21-26. The reading in Isaiah 40 was such a contrast!  But there was one part that wasn't, v.6-8, where we read, “All flesh is grass and all its beauty is like the flower of the field,  The grass withers, the flower fades  when the breath of the LORD blows on it; surely the people are grass.”  Then in v. 30 are words which particularly caught our eyes, “even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted” Why is this?  Because their “way is hidden from the LORD”, they do not want to live in the sight of God, many are not even sure there is a God! Some do not want to believe he exists!!But the wonderfully positive things that are written in this chapter arrested our attention – that God “gives power to the faint and to him who has no might he increases strength … they that wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint” [v.29,31]  When will this happen?  Verse 10 & 11 tell us, “Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might, and his arm (Jesus) rules for him; and his recompense is before him.  He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; and carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those who are with young.”   In one sense we are all young in the sight of God so we finish our thoughts with an apt quote from today's N.T. reading, “little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.” [1 John 2 v.28]

A @Christadelphians Video: Description: 1. The Book of Revelation is Christ's special message to our generation. It is a prophecy which tells us of major events from AD96 in the apostle John's time - leading up to the coming of the Kingdom of God. [Inspiring] **An outstanding and thought-provoking introduction to the book of Revelation!** We embark on a wonderful, expositional journey to uncover the Lord's direct message for our generation. This revealing and insightful presentation explores how God has provided prophetic encouragement for every age – from Adam to the apostles – and how the book of Revelation specifically bridges the gap from John's day all the way to the second coming of Christ. We examine the fascinating structure of seals, trumpets, and vials, showing how believers throughout history have located themselves in God's unfolding purpose. If you've ever wondered whether Revelation speaks to *our* time, this video will transform your understanding. Prepare to be inspired as we discover how to be not just servants, but friends of Christ.###

Today we read the final chapter of Peter's final message before he died.  He was martyred, as Jesus said he would be (John 21 v.18,19) but where is not known. Catholic's claim it happened in Rome, but there is no real evidence he ever went there, it was a story the church invented  much later. St. Peters Church in Rome only began to be built in AD 320. It is much more likely that Peter died in Jerusalem.Peter's final verses are written to warn believers about scoffers and the chaos of “the last days.”  His words about the last days were very apt as a warning about the fate that Jerusalem was to suffer. That was their first application, and the zealot Jews defending the city were scoffing about the promise of his return; 40 years had passed, only the  elderly would remember Jesus in person.Now note what Peter is inspired to write! “Do not overlook this fact beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day” [Ch.3 v.8], surely a reference to Psalm 90 v.4.   Peter wrote that scoffers would ridicule those who believed in Christ's return, saying, “Where is the promise of his coming?”   This is followed by the prediction that at that time people will be saying, “all things are continuing as they were from the beginning” [v.4]    We see this as a reference to the belief in evolution, that there is no Creator – noting the Psalms also speak of those who say “there is no God” (Psalms 14 v.1; 53 v.1].Peter says that people will “deliberately overlook” [v.5] the fact of the destruction God brought about in Noah's time.  Just as God acted to punish ungodliness then, he will do so again.  Do we understand verse10? “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved … “  to be followed by a “new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” [v.13]  As we have seen in Isaiah. reference to “heavens” can symbolises rulers, those whom people look up to!  All human governments are going to panic and fail. “But according to his promise we are waiting for the new heavens” [v.13].  “Beloved, since you are waiting for these”, writes Peter, “be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace.” [v.14] Let us believe his promise, it is the only hope, but it is a sure hope, for our godless world.

Peter's 2nd Epistle, of which we read the first 2 chapters, is extremely challenging because it relates in several ways to the excessively ungodly atmosphere in which we live.  But first, we were fascinated by lessons in our O T readings.  Samson upset his parents because he “saw one of the daughters of the Philistines” and said to them” get her for me as my wife.”  His parents objected, but he insisted; then comes the comment, “His father and mother did not know it was from the LORD, for he was seeking an opportunity against the Philistines” [Judges 14 v.1-4]We perceive from this that God does not overrule human freewill; what he does is to weave it into his ongoing purpose in his oversight of human affairs especially those of his chosen people. We perceive the same principle in the life of Hezekiah that Isaiah writes about [ch.38]. The LORD told him to “set your house in order, for you shall die … Hezekiah wept bitterly” [v.1,2] and the LORD heeded his prayers, but the son that succeeded him, born during the 15 years added to his life, was a disaster, but the nation had not appreciated the blessings of Hezekiah's reign and the deliverance we read about yesterday, they ‘deserved' a bad king..In 2nd Peter we see that those in special service before God can, on occasion, be described as “angels”  In Matt. 11 v.10, John the Baptist is described as a “messenger” but in Gk the word is ‘aggelos'.  This word is used by Peter (2 v.4) saying “for if God did not spare the angels that sinned” referring, we conclude to some of the Levites who had the privilege of serving in the Tabernacle, see Numbers 16.   Also in Heb. 2 v.2, “the message declared by angels (‘aggelos')” is most likely a way of describing human prophets such as Isaiah, who declared God's message.Peter contrasts the judgement on “the angels that sinned” with the deliverance of Noah and Lot because of their righteousness (v.5-8)  He then makes the point that there will be no sparing by God of believers who become sinful in Peter's day.  “There will be false teachers among you … and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed” [2 v.1,2] Peter is very blunt about those who “have hearts trained in greed … forsaking the right way.” [v.14,15]  Let us hold fast to the right way – so that God will spare us from his judgements that will surely come on this godless world (see ch. 3) Let us live “lives of holiness and godliness” [3 v.11] 

A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Description**In this **outstanding** and **thought-provoking** fifth instalment of *One In Christ: Complementary Roles*, Bible student Mark O'Grady delivers a **revealing** and **insightful** exposition on vulnerability. We explore what happens when the men who are called to lead—whether in the home or ecclesia—fall short, make mistakes, or even become wicked. How do faithful sisters navigate real‑life complications whilst upholding divine principles? Drawing from the rich tapestry of Scripture, we examine examples that are both **wonderful** and searingly honest: Bathsheba's respectful genius with an ageing king, Hannah's meek response to a false accusation, Jael's extraordinary courage in a treacherous household, and Abigail's decisive action to avert disaster. This is not abstract theory; it is practical, Spirit‑filled wisdom for every flawed human relationship. Whether you are a brother grappling with the weight of your responsibility or a sister seeking guidance in lonely territory, this study will challenge and inspire you to apply God's principles with grace, integrity, and resilience.**

As we read of King Hezekiah's desperate prayer because of the invading and mocking hordes of the Assyrians, it occurred to us that there are today some modern equivalents.  The Assyrian armies had been boasting of their conquests, as we read yesterday in Isaiah 36 – they were sure that Jerusalem would suffer a similar fate.  Deserters must have joined them, for the Assyrians are aware that Hezekiah had removed “the high places” [v.7] at which many of the people liked to worship instead of coming to the Temple.  The Assyrian king makes false claims about what the God of Israel is supposed to have said (v.10). There are parallels to this today in the beliefs of those who read into the Bible things it does not say and who criticise those who remain faithful to what God has caused to be written. In today's chapter (37), we read how the plight of Jerusalem gets worse.  This causes Hezekiah to come to see Isaiah (v.5) and we read of the reassurance the prophet gives the king.   In the same way today, and more so in the days that are coming, we will turn to God's prophets and to the reassurance of the words of his Son and the Apostles.  Hezekiah receives a letter from the Assyrians (v.14) and takes it into the Temple and there prays ….  “O LORD of Hosts … you are the God, you alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; you have made heaven and earth.  Incline your ear O LORD, and see, and hear all the words of Sennacherib which he has sent to mock the living God.” [v.17-18]God does hear, he does see, he does act.  We are about to see a parallel in our days.  Atheists are becoming more blatant and more public in mocking believers and belief in God.  The man Dawkins is one of the worst; many are getting bolder in mocking God and Christianity.  There is much, of course, to be ashamed of in the behaviour of some who claim the name of Christ, such as many Catholic Priests.  Let us pray for God to act in dealing with these mockers. All those who mock or ignore the living God and the Saviour he sent into the world – will really fear when his judgements begin.  We read Peter's message on this today, “The end of all things is at hand: therefore be self-controlled and sober minded … as one who serves by the strength that God supplies…” [1 Pet. 4 v.7,11]  Let us seek as much of this strength that we can – and we know the source!.

Our reading of 1 Peter Ch. 2 begins with a list of those things which a true follower of Christ should “put away” – we must do everything we can to get rid of such ways of thinking.        Those who have been brought up from childhood should never have possessed them!  But were they fully conscious of the potential of these things to ‘invade' and start to possess their minds?  It is vital that our minds are ‘possessed' by positive attitudes: there is no ‘in between' position – in God's eyes.      Jesus once told a parable about this (Matthew 12 v.43-45); of one who got rid of an unclean spirit (attitude) and his mind was clean, but he or she neglected to put anything in its place!  The end result was this person's mind was filled with 7 unclean spirits, “and the last state of that person was worse that the first.”  A cryptic statement concludes the parable, “so also will it be with this evil generation”!      That final generation of the Jewish nation was largely destroyed when Jerusalem was destroyed, but surely the same is now applying to the last generation of the Gentiles!  Our minds are made to be put to use – and this world today with all its abundant methods of communication is ready at every twist and turn to penetrate our minds with useless thoughts, or, worse still, with godless fleshly thoughts.        With this in mind we specially note Peter's advice that in coming to Christ we are “newborn infants” and that our attitude then is to “long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it, you may grow up to salvation” [v.2] so that you are “in the sight of God, chosen and precious,” [v.4], and you recognise yourselves to be “living stones” that are “being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood” [v.5]  The final stage is to realize we are “a holy nation, a people for his own possession” [v.9].  Peter goes on to tell them they are “sojourners and exiles” and not citizens of the world and as such must “abstain from the passions of the flesh which wage war against your soul” [v.11].  The evil spirits are ever ready to gain entry again if we give them a chance, so it is vital we fill the house of our mind with positive spiritual things every day.    Maybe some, before they commit themselves to Christ, think they can indulge in a little of the things of the world.  This can be fatal, it will leave a stain on their minds which only a total heartfelt mood of conversion can overcome, such as those who have had no spiritual upbringing experience as they, with really great joy, see the wondrous light God offers and “grow up to salvation.” 

A @Christadelphians Video: # YouTube Video Description**One In Christ: Complimentary Roles #4 'Mothers of Millions' with Bible Student Mark O'Grady**What does Scripture truly say about the role of mothers? In this thought-provoking and deeply insightful exposition, we explore one of the most beautiful and often misunderstood themes in the Bible—motherhood as God intended it.Join us as we journey from Genesis to the Gospels, uncovering the wonderful truth that motherhood is not a second-rate role but a divine calling central to God's purpose for humanity. This outstanding presentation will challenge worldly perspectives and inspire you to esteem the faithful labour of mothers who build their houses brick by brick.**What you'll discover:**- The true meaning of 1 Timothy 2:15 and why it's a blessing, not a burden- How Eve's name "Life" points to redemption- The powerful imagery of the wise woman building her house (Proverbs 14:1)- Why fathers must honour and support the mother's God-given authority- The profound link between childbirth pains and the hope of resurrectionThis revealing study shows how the physical role of motherhood becomes a glorious metaphor for our shared destiny in Christ—suffering giving way to eternal joy.##

The above words jumped out at us in 1 Peter 1 v.13.  What action?  In one sense, each morning we need to prepare our minds for action each day, to make that day count in service before God. Believers through the centuries have encountered times of crisis and a climax in their lives.  The Jewish exiles to whom Peter was writing were suffering persecution, probably  because of the rebellion of the Jews in Jerusalem against Rome in AD 67-70. Yet for the truly faithful these were also occasions of deliverance – even if that deliverance should be – being taken out of this life as happened to Stephen, the first martyr (Acts 7 v.60). Peter writes of those “who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” [v.5]  “Your faith has saved you” is a phrase in one form or another we often encounter in the New Testament.  We sense that this will be particularly true in the final years of human rule on this earth.  It is increasingly apparent that we live in those years.  Now note what Peter further writes, “if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials so that the tested genuineness of your faith – more precious than gold … may be found to result in praise and glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” [v.6,7].  Peter writes of the time when those with such a faith will “rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith” [v.8,9].Our Isaiah reading (Ch.35) has wonderful words about this time when the faithful “come to Zion with singing: everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away” [v.10]  So let us, start each day, by preparing our minds for action “having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth …” [1 Peter 1 v.22], an obedience shown by our love for one another “earnestly from a pure heart … through the living and abiding word of God” [v.22] which we must make sure we feed on every day. 

A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Description**Join us for this **thought-provoking** and **insightful** exposition of the Bible's design for wives within the marriage relationship. In this **outstanding** study, Bible Student Mark O'Grady unpacks the **wonderful** principles from Genesis, Ephesians and 1 Peter, showing how **revealing** God's original plan transforms our homes and reflects the relationship between Christ and the ecclesia. From the foundation of companionship and helpmeet, to the beauty of a meek and quiet spirit, this session is a powerful encouragement for every believer.**Chapters**00:00 – Introduction: The wonderful role of wives01:05 – God's design for marriage from the beginning03:05 – Genesis 2: Companionship and a helpmeet05:09 – Sacrifice and care: lessons from Adam and Eve08:38 – Leadership and submission pre-date the Fall11:34 – Why Eve came from Adam: the divine pattern14:11 – Ephesians 5: Husbands reflecting Christ's love16:19 – 1 Peter 3: The true meaning of submission (in context)21:47 – Winning over a disobedient husband without a word26:18 – Biblical example 1: Moses' parents (faith together)29:33 – Biblical example 2: Hannah and Elkanah (working together)34:31 – Biblical example 3: The Shunammite woman (influencing the home)40:38 – The virtuous woman: a crown to her husband44:58 – A warning from Michal: rottenness to the bones45:42 – Husbands: dwell with understanding, give honour47:58 – Conclusion: heirs together of the grace of life**Bible Verse Categories**

Today we read the final chapter of James and his warning to the believers in Jerusalem, for some had “laid up treasure in the last days.” [v.3]  The “last days” facing Jerusalem, James knew, was the destruction that Jesus had foretold, the time when it would be surrounded by armies and “its desolation had come” and the Temple destroyed. [Luke 21 v.6, 20]  The immediate “last days” at that time, James knew, was God's vengeance on the people of Jerusalem for killing his Son – they saw their sense of glory as particularly relating to their possession of a most impressible Temple, even Jesus' disciples boasted of this (Mark 13 v.1).However, we perceive that many of the prophesied judgements by Jesus on Jerusalem also apply to God's judgements on the Gentiles at the time when the Jews have  returned and Jerusalem is re-established, a time when all nations, especially those around them are in trouble, read Luke 21 v.24-28.  James' vision clearly applies to our “last days” as well – so we should take his advice to “establish your hearts” [v.8] very much to heart. The chapter starts, “Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you.  Your riches have rotted …”  This reminds us of what we read last week in Isaiah 24 v.2,3.  Today the “riches” are very largely on paper, computer figures, with some having mountains of debt – it all seems ready to collapse, probably starting with Europe. So many, especially the apparently wealthy, live “in luxury and self-indulgence” [v.5]  Crime rates are mounting, so how relevant to us are James' words, “Be patient therefore brothers (& sisters) until the coming of the Lord” [v.7] The only true way to “be patient” and to “establish your hearts” is in the meditative reading and, discussion together as much as we can, of the word of God. This is the foundation to remaining steadfast.  Verse 11 tells us, “Behold, we consider those blessed who remain steadfast”  Let us make sure we are among the “blessed.”

A @Christadelphians Video: **Video Title:** One in Christ: Complimentary Roles #2 – ‘Sisters in Service' with Bible Student Mark O'GradyJoin us for this **thought-provoking** and **insightful** presentation as Bible Student Mark O'Grady continues our ‘Complimentary Roles' series. In this second session, ‘Sisters in Service', we turn our focus to the beautiful, God-given role of sisters within the ecclesia. This is not merely a study of function—it is an **expositional** look at the heart of true discipleship: the spirit of service.From the women who travelled with our Lord to the faithful sisters commended by Paul in Romans 16, we uncover a **wonderful** truth: service is not second‑rate in God's eyes. It is a **revealing** reflection of Christ Himself, who “came not to be ministered unto, but to minister”. We explore the practical care, unseen sacrifices, and spiritual depth of sisters like Priscilla, Phoebe, Mary, and Martha—learning that all genuine service begins at the feet of Jesus.Whether you are a brother or sister, this study will challenge and inspire you to embrace a servant's heart, support one another, and recognise the **outstanding** contribution of sisters in God's family.

A @Christadelphians Video: **Video Description**Join us for this thought-provoking and expositional study, *“One in Christ: Complimentary Roles #1 – ‘One in Christ Jesus'”* with Bible student Mark O'Grady. In this outstanding opening session, we explore the biblical foundation for the roles of men and women, answering the vital question: why is our whole community depicted in Scripture as a woman?We begin in Genesis, seeing that God's purpose and hope are identical for both male and female – we are all one in Christ Jesus. Yet, as we examine the whole of Scripture, an overwhelmingly male focus emerges, alongside explicit instructions about headship and submission. Rather than being a cultural relic, we reveal how these principles are woven into creation itself – from Adam being formed first, to Eve as a “help meet”, and the beautiful symbolism of the sun and the moon.This insightful presentation addresses modern challenges, the meaning of true leadership as service, and the wonderful complementarity of male and female brains – designed by God to work together. Most powerfully, we discover that the biblically defined role of women is not a put-down, but a transcendent calling to depict the relationship between God and His people. “The Maker is thy husband” (

The letter of James is full of challenging spiritual statements.  Many are applicable to the world which surrounds us. James was writing at the time when Jerusalem was about to be destroyed as his half-brother (our Lord) had warned.  The great majority had rejected the divine message, it is evident that, 30+ years after their Lord ascended to heaven the convictions and commitment of believers was in serious decline.What James writes is also appropriate for the world today and the spirit among many who consider themselves believers, “You ask and do not receive,” he declares, “because you ask wrongly to spend it on your passions…. Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? [4 v.3,4] What he writes next reminds us of what Paul said to the people of Athens – about the unseen presence of the only real God, encouraging them to “feel their way toward him and find him.  Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for ‘In him we live and move and have our being'”  [Acts 17 v.27,28] Compare this with what James told believers in Jerusalem about God, “'He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us?'” [Ch. 4 v.5]   The Creator of all things, it is clear, sees and knows all. In Judges we read about Gideon; in his days the people had largely forgotten their history, especially the faith that Moses and Joshua inspired in them as they started to possess the promised land. The nation was in deep trouble, Gideon had an astonishing encounter with an angel of the LORD and asked him, “if the LORD is with us why has all this happened …” [6 v.13]  We know the reason, few in our world will know the reason when our world starts to really fall apart.   Finally, what Isaiah writes in todays' ch. 33 is a sort of prayer, an inspiration that we can and should take to heart, “O LORD , be gracious to us,; we wait for you.  Be our arm every morning, our salvation in time of trouble.” [v.2] We all need to experience “friendship” How do we find ours? Does it sustain us spiritually?  Above all, how real in our divine relationship?   Is it “our arm every morning.”? 

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] In this thought-provoking and outstanding presentation, Brother Carl Parry delivers a revealing expositional study on the prophetic landscape of our times. With a focus on the tumultuous events unfolding in Europe and Russia, we delve into the Scriptures to understand how current geopolitical shifts align with the divine plan. This is a wonderful and insightful session that connects the dots between Daniel's prophecies, the turmoil in Ukraine, and the emerging alliances that set the stage for the return of our Lord. Join us as we navigate these distressing yet hope-filled times.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction03:04 - Setting the Prophetic Stage: Daniel 2 & Ezekiel 3804:00 - The Impact of the Ukrainian War on Russia08:57 - Russia's Military Strategy and the Shadow War15:47 - NATO's Dilemma and European Tensions24:44 - The Geopolitical Fracture of Europe30:17 - The EU, NATO, and the Undivided Roman Empire38:12 - The Frog Spirits of Revelation 16 and Rising Anti-Semitism44:55 - The Three Centers: The Beast, The False Prophet, and The Dragon47:47 - Tarshish and Her Young Lions: Britain, America, and Australia51:45 - A World in Perplexity and Our Call to Look Up58:53 - Conclusion: Our Redemption Draweth Nigh**Bible Verse References:**

A @Christadelphians Video: **[Inspiring]**In this thought-provoking exposition, we delve into one of the most pressing questions for believers today: Why is Christianity so divided? With an insightful journey from the pages of the New Testament through centuries of church history, we uncover the Biblical warnings about apostasy and reveal how many mainstream doctrines actually originated outside of Scripture. Join us for a powerful call to return to the Bible as our sole authority.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: A Landscape of Division01:07 - The Bible's Claim: Our Complete Guide02:54 - Does Unity of Belief Matter?03:28 -

"The Biblical teaching of Unitarianism (One God) versus the teaching of Trinitarianism (3 gods) is outlined. The word "trinity" or related words are not found in the Bible. This teaching only surfaced around AD 350-381. The Bible affirms monotheism not polytheism."Inspiring, What if the most widely held belief about God isn't actually found in the Bible? In this thought-provoking and deeply insightful exposition, we embark on a journey through Scripture to examine the foundations of Trinitarianism versus the Biblical Unitarian position. This is not an attack on sincere believers, but a heartfelt and respectful exploration of what the Bible actually teaches about the Father and His Son.This outstanding presentation moves beyond simple proof-texting to reveal the historical development of the Trinity, the philosophical challenges it presents, and the wonderful, plain reading of Scripture that points to one God, the Father, and one Lord Jesus Christ, His exalted Son. We delve into the concept of divine agency, the personification of wisdom, and the revealing truth of what the early church truly believed.If you have ever wondered why the word "Trinity" isn't in the Bible, or how a plain reading of Acts 2 or 1 Corinthians 15 shapes our understanding of who Jesus is, this video is for you. It's a wonderful opportunity to see the cohesive and logical beauty of the Unitarian understanding of God's plan.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: A Respectful Approach to a Difficult Subject02:08 - Playing Offense: Why We Don't Hold to the Trinity03:22 - The Missing Word: "Trinity" and Later Creeds05:40 - Peter's Testimony: A Plain Reading of Acts 208:27 - When Did the Theory Arise? Historical Truth vs. False Narratives11:30 - The Influence of Philosophy and Pagan Metaphysics13:55 - The Loss of Jewish Influence and the Rise of New Ideas14:36 - The Late Addition of the Holy Spirit as a "Person"15:51 - What Did the Ancients Believe? Jewish Monotheism17:18 - The Paralyzed Man: Authority, Not Divinity22:17 - The Centurion's Faith: Understanding Delegated Authority24:09 - Jesus' Own Words: "My God and Your God"25:00 - The Logical Inconsistencies of the Trinity29:55 - The Attributes of God vs. The Experience of Jesus32:32 - The "Two Natures" Theory and Its Problems35:23 - The Revealing Concept of Divine Agency40:25 - Personification in Scripture: Wisdom and God's Attributes41:45 - Being "Sent": Commission, Not Spatial Travel43:30 - Joseph: A Powerful Type of Christ44:54 - The Problem of Changed Meanings: How Words Shifted46:08 - The "I Am" Phrase: A Self-Identification Idiom48:17 - Translation Bias: How Versions Can Influence Doctrine53:15 - Christ's Current and Future Position: Subordinate and Glorified54:48 - Why It All Matters: Truth, Atonement, and Our Mediator57:49 - Conclusion: Knowing the Only True God and Jesus Christ Whom He Sent

**Video Title:** The Christadelphians – #14 'The Holy Spirit' – Harry Tennant**Description:**In this outstanding and revealing presentation, we—your Christadelphian brothers and sisters—delve into the biblical truth about the Holy Spirit. What is the Holy Spirit? Is it a separate person, or the radiant power of God Himself? Drawing from Scripture alone, brother Harry Tennant provides a wonderfully clear, insightful, and thought-provoking exposition that will transform your understanding of how God works in creation, revelation, redemption, and in our daily walk of faith.From the very beginning, we see the Spirit of God moving in creation, sustaining all things, and later inspiring the prophets to write the infallible Word. This same Spirit was focalised in the life, miracles, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ—and now, through the gospel message, it convicts, begets new life, and produces the fruit of righteousness in every believer. We also explore the privilege of prayer, the ministry of angels, and the sword of the Spirit—the Word of God—that empowers us to resist temptation.Whether you are new to these truths or seeking a deeper, Bible-based understanding, this wonderful study will strengthen your faith and draw you closer to our Heavenly Father.**Chapters:**00:00 – Introduction: What is the Holy Spirit? 01:06 – Clearing the Confusion: Holy Ghost vs Holy Spirit 02:38 – Biblical Descriptions of the Holy Spirit 03:45 – The Spirit in Creation and Sustaining All Things 06:13 – The Spirit: God's Radiant Power, Not a Separate Person 06:58 – Revelation of Scripture by the Holy Spirit 08:40 – Resisting the Holy Spirit Through the Ages 10:41 – Miracles and Wonders by God's Power 12:50 – The Holy Spirit Focused in the Life of Christ 14:32 – Christ's Resurrection by the Power of God 15:52 – The Exalted Christ as a Life-Giving Spirit 18:31 – Christ: The Source of Everlasting Salvation 19:37 – The Spirit Empowers the Apostles 21:56 – The Word of the Spirit Brings New Birth 24:33 – Walking in the Spirit and Its Fruit 26:18 – The Message of Salvation: God's Power 28:25 – Renewing Your Mind Through God's Word 29:29 – Angels as Ministering Spirits 30:22 – The Privilege of Prayer and Christ's Intercession 32:58 – The Sword of the Spirit: God's Word in Temptation 34:54 – Bold Access to God's Throne of Grace 35:42 – Conclusion: God's Unfailing Presence and Care **Key Bible Verses:**

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] **Thought-Provoking & Insightful Video Summary** Join **We**, the Christadelphians, as we dive into the **outstanding** and often overlooked topic of **Bible translators and diversity** in this **revealing** expositional study. Have you ever wondered why there are so many versions of the Bible? This session unpacks how translation committees—and their diverse backgrounds—profoundly shape the Scriptures we read today. We explore the **wonderful** advantages of committee translations (guarding against bias, considering many opinions, catching errors) alongside the challenges (majority rules, less consistency). Using vivid examples from Jonah and Micah, we see how even a single Hebrew word like *olam* can be translated differently, affecting our understanding of prophecy and the Messiah. This is a **must-watch** for anyone seeking a richer, more informed approach to Bible reading.**Chapters** 00:00 - Introduction: Why translators and diversity matter 02:05 - The committee's influence: Majority rules and what gets lost 04:30 - A personal translation experiment (Jonah 1:1-4) 07:10 - Comparing the KJV, NIV, ESV, and NASB on Micah 5:2 10:30 - The Hebrew word *olam*: “Forever” or “ancient times”? 12:50 - How the NIV translators handled Micah 5:2 (and the minority view) 14:30 - Advantages of translation committees (4 key benefits) 16:00 - Disadvantages of committees (less consistency, less freedom) 17:30 - Conclusion & next session: Guarding against bias through diversity**Bible Verse Category**

**YouTube Summary/Description**We invite you to watch this deeply moving and thought-provoking tribute to our beloved brother in Christ, Uncle John Martin (1931–2021). This wonderful memorial video captures the heart of a man whose passionate, expositional teaching brought the Scriptures to life for so many. Through revealing personal recollections and powerful clips, you'll witness how Uncle John's love for God's Word—and his rare gift for making Bible characters like Elijah, Samson, and our Lord Jesus Christ resonate across generations—has left an indelible mark on our community. His insightful method of unlocking Bible echoes and his unwavering commitment to the truth continue to inspire us. Join us as we celebrate a life prioritised by faith and family, and reflect on the lasting legacy of a brother who simply wanted us all to read, love, and live by every word of God.**Chapters**00:00 – Introduction: Remembering Uncle John 01:11 – A Life Prioritised by Faith and Family 06:57 – The Legendary June Weekends & the “Samson” Study 13:18 – Bringing Elijah to Life: A Teenager's Turning Point 19:50 – The Influence of Brother John Carter & Bible Method 28:54 – Personal Memories, Humour, and Heartfelt Stories 44:45 – A Vision of the Kingdom (Zechariah 8) 48:14 – A Solemn Warning: Humanism & Righteousness 53:34 – Conclusion: Looking Forward to the Resurrection

Our chapter (32) in Isaiah starts, “Behold a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule in justice.”  This surely visualises God's king, the Lord Jesus, at last reigning over the earth.   There will also be “princes” reigning  who ”will rule with justice.” At last the world will experience true justice.  The words of the prophecy imply the “reign” will initially be against a scene in which the world has become “a dry place” and “a weary land” [v.2]The “princes” who “will rule” will provide “a shelter from the storm” that occurs as the world is transformed and comes to accept the fact that there is an all-righteous king reigning. True justice will at last happen, “the fool will no more be called noble, nor the scoundrel said to be honourable.” [v.5]   Human hearts will no longer be “busy with iniquity to practice ungodliness, to utter error concerning the LORD.” [v.6] May we, by the grace of God, be there among the “noble (who) plan noble things…” [v.8]  The time will  then develop “when the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness quietness and trust forever” [v.17]    Jesus told his disciples, “when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” [Matt. 19 v.28]   In Revelation he said, “The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations” [Rev 2 v.26], surely these are the “princes” mentioned in our Isaiah chapter who “will rule with justice” as we read in v. 2..We must make sure we are God's people now who “hold the faith in Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory” [James 2 v.1, also today's reading].  And then in that day, looking at v.18 in our Isaiah chapter, we will be among those of whom God says, “My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.”  

The letter of James, after words of greeting in the first verse, then gives some blunt but valuable advice, “Count it all joy, my brothers (and sisters), when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.  And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete …”Count it all joy!!  James, we conclude, means ‘spiritual joy' in the heart.  Can we not experience this, especially when we look back on a difficult series of events in our lives; should not at least some of the Israelites have felt this as they came to Mt. Sinai – and the disciples as they realized their Lord was alive again?  How the hearts of some burned within them.  What kind of joy is experienced in these situations?Then we note what James next states!  “and let steadfastness have its full effect that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” [v.4]   Perfection!?  That is, perfect faith – that sees their life from the Lord's perspective – and in that way – lacks nothing that matters – especially in an eternal sense.  Even the events in the world are seen from this perspective – we know more and more surely that the Lord is in control. especially when we sense the divinely ordained end is near.  James then says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”[v.5]  But there is a vital qualification to this asking!  We must “ask in faith with no doubting” [v.6]  A person who doubts, in his approach to God, “must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord.” [v.7]   Our lives, our minds must have a constant ingredient of genuine faith in them.  James stresses that those who do not have this – increasingly have minds that are “driven and tossed” like the sea waves, he (or she) says James “is a double minded man, unstable in all his ways.”[v.8]Our world tempts us, tests us, toward double-mindedness.  Let us fix in our minds the outstanding message of James that when we “meet trials of various kinds” we “count it all joy” because we see our lives from God's perspective.  We take comfort from the lessons of the past, the trials of faith that should have strengthened us.  In a few days we will read Peter's first epistle, let us note his words, that we must live “as good stewards of God's varied grace … as one who serves by the strength that God supplies.”[4 v.10,11]

Once again God's words through Isaiah attracted our thoughts.  There are so many parallels today with the attitudes the LORD was seeking to counteract in Israel in the time of Isaiah.  The message the prophet was to convey was, “For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, ‘In returning (or repentance, mg) and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.' But you were unwilling …” [30 v.15]In v. 18 this is repeated with added emphasis, “… the LORD waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you.  For the LORD is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him.”  We see that the LORD's words to the people through Isaiah have remarkable parallels in the words of Jesus – remember the invitations to the wedding banquet – and the poor response – see Matt 22 v.3 and John's record of Jesus saying, “the Scriptures … bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me … you do not have the love of God within you.” [John 5 v.39-41]  What would he say to you?As we read each day – let us make sure we see the “witness” of the Scriptures.  There are also some thought parallels in today's final chapter in Hebrews, “Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you or forsake you.' So that we can confidently say, the Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'” [v.5,6]  Paul writes of the sacrifices we should make, to be content, to have no love of money.  He reminds and stresses, our Lord sacrificed himself “in order to sanctify the people through his own blood” [v.12]  And then v.15 should jump out to attract our thoughts, “Through him then let us continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name … for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” [v.16] Let us make sure they are pleasing to us – and come genuinely from our hearts – a contrast to the noise and show in the Temple in the days of Isaiah, Jesus and Paul; learning that “in quietness and in trust shall be (y)our strength.”

How many can read the Bible – as a whole – and really make sense of it, so that it speaks to them in their heart, and stirs them to live their lives really conscious of God and of his Son?  This question came to mind as we pondered the message in Isaiah today – parts of it evidently a commentary on the attitudes of many in the prophets' day, many had failed to develop a real ‘living' relationship with God.After recording a vision of what will happen to people at the time when “the multitude of all the nations be that fight against Mount Zion …”  This vision “shall be like a dream, a vision in the night” [29 v.8] In v.11 the condemnation is  made, “the vision of all this has become to you like the words of a book that is sealed” [v.11].  The people are like those who refuse to read “when men give it to one who can read, saying ‘Read this,' he says, ‘I cannot, for it is sealed.'”But it is clear that this is an excuse – for a remarkable statement is made in v.13 &14  “And the Lord said, ‘Because this people draw near to me with their mouth and honour me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me, and their fear of me is a commandment taught by men …. the wisdom of their wise men shall perish …”  It is human wisdom that perishes, they are told they “turn things upside down!  Shall the potter be regarded as the clay,   that the thing made should say of its maker, ‘He did  not make me'” [v.16] – today many would add – ‘I just evolved.'How well these words apply to the human ‘wisdom' of today – God's word is “a book that is sealed” . We must remember that there is no middle path – if we do not apply our minds to the true meaning of God's words then it “is sealed” for us.  The day is coming, God's word says, as we read on in v.19 & 20, when “the meek shall obtain fresh joy in the LORD and the poor among mankind shall exult in the Holy One of Israel. For the ruthless shall come to nothing and the scoffer cease.”   There is no point in being aware of the vision of God's ultimate action against the nations of the earth if we only “honour” God “with our lips” refusing to apply our minds to unseal his book. 

Today we read the well known 11th chapter of Hebrews, it starts, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”  This is the vital lesson we must take to heart in reading this chapter – that having faith is having a state of mind that must cause us to lead different lives, different priorities – to have different aims. We live our lives in service to our Saviour – accomplishing things in his service.  Read the chapter, noticing how often the words “By faith” occur.  “By faith Noah …by faith Abraham …  by faith Sarah …”Our faith is not just something we talk about – or listen to others talking about.  We read today of many examples of men and women of faith, highlighting in many cases some particular deed that proved the nature of their faith.  It is most valuable to look on into the first 2 verses of tomorrow's chapter., it starts “Therefore” – therefore we should put the chapter break after verse 2.  “Therefore since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses (all those examples of men and women of faith in ch. 11), let us also lay aside every weight and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith …”  We must each search our hearts as to how effectively we are living our lives so that he sees that our faith has developed real strength, that we have acquired a real sense of teamwork with our Saviour and our God. That our lives demonstrate that we are “working together with him” [2 Cor. 6 v.1] May we all be able to look back on our lives, on our journey in developing greater and greater faith to see how we have been “made strong out of weakness” [v.34] because we have developed a real “conviction of things not seen” and “we are not of those who shrink back … but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.” [10 v.39] 

Our Isaiah and Hebrews readings provide an abundance of thoughts today.  Some verses encourage peace of mind, others a sense of awe at what is coming on the world – the judgements our godless world deserves.  Ch. 26 in Isaiah is a grouping of quite contrasting revelations from God – verses 3 and 4 are worthy of being memorised. “You will keep him (her) in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he (she) trusts in you.  Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock.”  How wonderful to have a mind that is “stayed on” God, the only foundation for “perfect peace” in a world which knows no peace: no peace between nations – yes – but more vital than that – no trust and peace between individuals. The reign of Jesus returned to the earth will see the time “when your judgements are in the earth, the inhabitants of the earth learn righteousness…” [v.9]  But at the moment, as in Isaiah's day, “O LORD your hand is lifted up, but they do not see it.” [v.11].  May we “see” the Lord's hand so that the next verse is true for us, “O LORD, you will ordain peace for us; you have done for us all our works.” [v.12] because those works have been done in the strength that God gives to us – and then we will heed the warning given in v.20,21 “… my people, enter your chambers, and shut your doors behind you; hide yourselves for a little while until the fury has passed by.  For behold the LORD is coming out from his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth …”There are words in our Hebrews reading which dovetail in with these;  “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works … encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” [ch. 10 v.23-25]  This is the only way to achieve and maintain “perfect peace.” 

A @Christadelphians Video: *[Inspiring] Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Watchman Report as we explore the fascinating role of Yemen in Bible prophecy. We provide an insightful, expositional journey from its ancient biblical identity as 'Sheba' to its current place in a turbulent Middle East, and reveal its wonderful, prophesied future in the Kingdom of God.**Chapters:*00:00 - Introduction: A Biblical Standpoint on World News00:24 - Yemen's Geography and Modern Conflict00:42 - Ezekiel 38: The Great Invasion & Sheba's Objection01:26 - The Queen of Sheba and Yemen's Ancient Identity02:11 - British Influence and Yemen's Modern History02:58 - The Rise of the Houthis and Ongoing Civil War03:45 - Current Tensions and International Stance04:22 - Prophetic Alignment: Yemen's Future Voice04:45 - Psalm 72 & Isaiah 60: Yemen's Glorious Future Under Christ05:52 - Conclusion and Final Encouragement*Key Bible Verses:*

Here's a YouTube summary and description written from the perspective of ‘We' (Christadelphians), using British English spelling and the required elements.---**Video Title:** The Christadelphians: #13 A Priest Forever – Harry Tennant**Description:**In this **outstanding** and **thought-provoking** presentation, we explore a question that lies at the very heart of God's purpose: *Who will be the promised King?* If human sinfulness doomed Israel's kingdom, how can anything better emerge? The answer is **revealing** and breathtaking.Join us as we trace the golden thread of prophecy from Jacob's blessing over Judah to God's unbreakable covenant with David. We then examine Nebuchadnezzar's dream—a **wonderful**, divinely given panorama of world empires—and the mysterious stone that smashes them all. This stone, we learn, is none other than Christ Himself, the Priest-King forever.This **expositional** journey is packed with **insightful** connections between Genesis, Ezekiel, Daniel and the New Testament, demonstrating that God's Kingdom on earth with Christ as King is the Bible's clearest hope. If you long for a world of righteousness and peace, this video will inspire and strengthen your faith.**

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] **Ai Summary** – Thought-provoking, insightful, and wonderfully expositional, this outstanding episode of *The Bible Standard* reveals why humility is essential when wrestling with Scripture's most puzzling passages. We, as Christadelphians, explore the strange case of King Saul's age—does the Hebrew really say he was one year old?—and the textual twists behind Lamentations 3: “we are not consumed.” We also dive into the cutting‑edge debate over Greek verbs: do they really tell us *when* something happened, or just *how* the author saw it? This is a wonderfully revealing journey into the “things we still don't know,” reminding us that following God is a process of continual learning, not stagnant certainty.**

A Christadelphian Video:In this interview, Justin Reich talks about how he came into the Truth, having not been brought up as a Christadelphian. Having been encouraged to come along to Christadelphian events by his aunt and uncle, Justin highlights the need for good influences, and the importance of perceiving what the Word of God has to offer, in contrast to the world.Justin's experiences demonstrate the need for everyone to engage with the comforting message of the Bible, and the fact that God is always helping us to grow in every circumstance of life. Justin has some sound advice for those wishing to share the Gospel, and also for those who are on their own journey of discovering the wonderful truth contained within Scripture and the beauty of fellowship with like-minded believers.

Let us link up the closing words of our reading in Hebrews (ch.9) “Christ … will appear a second time … to save those who  are eagerly waiting for him” with the words God gave to Isaiah, in today's ch. 25, which we referred to yesterday.  This describes the time when God “will swallow up death forever; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth …”  It will be said on that day, ‘Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him … let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” [v.8,9]How eagerly are we waiting?  Is the world around us full of ways of living that attract us, things that largely or fully occupy our minds?  Yes, we have to live in the world and earn our living, but are we keenly interested in the vision God's word provides for us that goes far beyond the present materialistic way of thinking and doing?  We are forced to admit that this computer communication age, which is very helpful in many ways, is also very distracting – do we need to allow it to be totally distracting?  The more our minds feed on God's word the more we will be attracted to that word.  In that coming day, the LORD tells us through Isaiah, the redeemed will say, “O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you … for you have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure … Therefore strong peoples will glorify you; cities of ruthless nations will fear you.” [v.1,3] At that time those who have been “eagerly waiting” and showing this by their priorities in life will “be glad and rejoice”. Peter in his 1st epistle, which we will soon read,  expresses this powerfully, “Though you do not now see him, you believe him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith …” [1 Pet. 1 v.8,9]  Imagine the joy?  Imagine the glory?Finally, note the point Paul made earlier in Hebrews ch. 9!  “How much more will the blood of Christ who … offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.” [v.14]   If we do not sense our progress in that purifying and, as a result, serving, then we have to ask ourselves, ‘Do I genuinely belong to Christ?' 

Today's and tomorrow's chapters in Isaiah (24 & 25) contain a powerful message about the climax of human history, yet they are not very often quoted.   Chapter 24 ends with “for the LORD of hosts reigns on Mount Zion and Jerusalem and his glory will be before his elders.”  The next chapter begins with the reaction of the righteous, “O LORD, you are my God, I will exalt your name for you have done wonderful things …”  Humanly fortified cities have become ruins, never to be rebuilt (v.2) and the “cities of ruthless nations will fear you.” [v.3]  God has “been a stronghold to the poor … to the needy in his distress” [v.4]Then a glorious scene opens up, “On this mountain the LORD of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food … he will swallow up death forever and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces … Behold this is our God, we have waited for him … “ [v.6,8,9].    But go back, we jumped over nearly all of Ch. 24 – it speaks of what is to happen before this time of wonder and joy on the earth.  It is an extremely frightening picture!  Is it about to happen?  The chapter started, “Behold the LORD will empty the earth and make it desolate …”The next verse indicates that all the buyers, sellers, lenders, borrowers, creditors and debtors will suffer.  Verse 3 says, “The earth shall be utterly empty and utterly plundered; for the LORD has spoken this word”.  Then we read “the earth lies defiled under its inhabitants” [v.5], “its inhabitants suffer for their guilt” [v.6] and then follows details of the ways in which they will suffer.Reading further – “The earth is utterly broken … is violently shaken … its transgression lies heavily upon it and it falls and will not rise again” [v.19,20].  This is symbolic language of the heavens and the earth (rulers and people) that now exist being destroyed.  But later in Isaiah we will come across a wonderful vision, for God says, “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create; for behold I create Jerusalem to be a joy  … my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands.” [Ch.65 v.17,18,22]  Will you behold these things?