The End Time Blog Podcast

In the passage, King Saul seeks comfort from music during his distress caused by an evil spirit. A servant identifies David, praising not only his musical ability but also his strong character and divine favor. The text emphasizes that believers should reflect Christ's character in their actions, influencing how others perceive their faith and demonstrating that Christ is in us.

The podcast  discusses the fact that demons are mentioned more in scripture than we might remember, highlights the demon-possessed man from Mark 5, and discuses the nature of demons as fallen angels who oppose God's work. The piece emphasizes staying focused on Jesus, despite the real presence of demons in the world.FURTHER RESOURCES"Spiritism" sermon by Martyn Lloyd-Jones. Synopsis- " Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones looks across Scripture to help the listener understand the general activity, as well as the particular operations of evil and malevolent spiritual forces in the world. This sermon on demonology helpfully classifies the outworking of occult activity in its ancient and modern forms."The Doctrine of Satan and Demons: Wayne Grudem (outline)The  following  is an outline from Wayne Grudem for chapter 20 of his book, Systematic Theology, dealing with Satan and Demons. There are three teachings on this chapter located elsewhere on this website.Angels and Demons- Ligonier Ministry (23 minute video). "If we claim to believe what the Bible teaches, then we must take the existence of angels and demons seriously. In this message, R.C. Sproul turns to the teaching of Scripture on the role of these spirits and the reality of Satan."

In this episode of the End Time Blog Podcast, I discuss the concept of God's voice & biblical revelation in contemporary times. I emphasize the sufficiency of Scripture, arguing against the notion that God communicates through visions and dreams today

I discuss the importance of respect in Christian marriages. I explain the Eph 5:33 verse, & that I'd heard that many wives may struggle with showing respect, which is distinct from submission. Practical ways to show respect are also outlined.Further ResourcesWhat does a Spirit Filled Marriage look Like?Puritan Wives: Margaret Tyndal Winthrop and her extraordinary love letters

I respond to reader questions about false teachers in Christianity, discussing their potential for salvation and the characteristics that distinguish them. While acknowledging that God can save anyone, I discuss that true false teachers are typically hardened in heart and unlikely to repent. Discernment through scripture is emphasized for identifying false teachings.Further ResourcesPortrait of False Teachers part 1, MacArthur sermonLessons I've learned from False Teachers, Tim Challies, essayHow to Identify False Teachers if you Don't Know the Truth, For the Gospel, Costi Hinn essayFalse teachers, Just Thinking PodcastDecoding False Teachers: Types of Wolves in Christianity- Reader Questions & Answers part 1 The End Time

I discuss the importance of discernment in recognizing false teachers, or "wolves," within the church, a discussion sparked from a reader's question. I explain that these deceptive individuals can exist in various roles, causing division and spreading false doctrines for personal gain. Discernment is essential for believers to maintain a pure walk with Jesus amidst such dangers.

Oracles v. prophecies? I explain the difference.Also, there's a misconception that God speaks directly to individuals today, I emphasize the Bible is sufficient for moral and spiritual guidance. The Bible serves as today's oracle.

I reflect on the death of a relative, emphasizing the importance of faith for salvation. It's a somber reminder that without repentance and belief in Jesus, eternal consequences await the unsaved.Resource mentioned: Are Catholics Deceived? by Mike Gendron

I discuss the growing trend in evangelicalism of individuals claiming "God told me" messages, which often lack the seriousness and suffering associated with true biblical prophecies. I emphasize that these claims are not aligned with Scripture's sufficiency and I warn against modern interpretations that promote comfort over accountability, ultimately asserting that God's revelation is closed.What is the Doctrine of Sufficiency of Scripture?

Hannah Hurnard, author of the classic "Hind's Feet in High Places," ultimately embraced unorthodox beliefs, including reincarnation and universalism. Despite her initial appeal in Christian literature, her later writings reveal a drift into apostasy. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of straying from sound doctrine and true faith.Links mentionedChristianity Today did a short bio of her lifeHere is a longer treatment of Hannah's life, "FROM HIGH PLACES TO HERESY: Evaluating the Writings of Hannah Hurnard", by G. Richard Fisher.Further ReadingApostasy from the Gospel, book by John OwenApostasy and how it Happens, essay by Sinclair FergusonWhat is an Apostate? short answer by John MacArthur

Sometimes we get so busy and so involved, we become unwisely invested in the systems around us. It's good to be involved, but not to the point that we become so embedded that we forget about the kingdom.

There are two Salomes in the Bible. Both are New Testament women, but have vastly different characters. The Salome # 2 that I focus today on appears later in the New Testament. She is named, and she appears several times. Let's get to know her.Previous blog entries in the Little Known Bible Characters Series:Little Known Bible Characters #6: King ChedorlaomerLittle Known Bible Characters #5: Harbonah the EunuchLittle Known Bible Characters #4: EutychusLittle Known Bible Characters #3: TrophimusLittle Known Bible Characters #2: ‘The List of Offenders'Little Known Bible Characters #1: Iddo

I was speaking with a lady recently who seemed to think that the only person we will know in heaven will be Jesus. I thought about that for a while. Is this tre? Let's take a look at some scriptures that will help sort this out.Link mentioned: John MacArthur: Will we recognize and be reunited with loved ones in heaven?https://www.gty.org/library/questions/QA100/will-we-recognize-and-be-reunited-with-our-loved-ones-in-heaven

The text discusses the consequences of Adam and Abraham listening to their wives' advice that contradicted God's commands. It contrasts Eve's and Sarah's counsel with that of wise biblical women like Hannah and Mary. The message urges wives to provide godly guidance and avoid leading their husbands astray.

In her reflection, Elizabeth Prata emphasizes the distinction between wisdom and discernment, illustrating this through the biblical example of Abigail. She asserts that discernment is a skill that requires training through study of God's word, prayer, and understanding one's heart. Discernment guides believers in seeking God's will and enhancing holiness. Link mentioned: Ligonier article, what is Discernment? Other helpful resources on discernment- Beware of False Teachers, helpful article from G3 God's Demand for Discernment, 28 min video What does the Bible say about Discernment? GotQuestions article

The episode by Elizabeth Prata discusses the biblical beliefs surrounding angels guiding believers to heaven, illustrated through Lazarus' story. It contrasts this with the harsh fate of the lost, who face judgment and are cast into hell. The author emphasizes Jesus' compassion for the saved and the dire consequences for those who reject Him, urging gratitude for salvation.

The episode critiques modern interpretations of Jesus and women's roles in Christianity, highlighting concerns about contemporary female preachers and their messaging. It identifies various inaccuracies in the viewpoint that personal experiences define faith, emphasizing the importance of adhering to Biblical doctrines. The author encourages vigilance against false teachings and maintaining doctrinal integrity. https://the-end-time.org/2025/01/14/the-double-life-of-christian-influencers-beware-of-hypocrisy/ Justin Peters addressing the true meaning of the 'still small voice verse, https://youtu.be/3z32AIGDBq4?si=s8TLdF-m_FRwkRtB

Elizabeth Prata discusses Michael Reeves' interpretation of fearing God as a righteous jealousy that stems from a deep love from Him, contrasting it with selfish envy. She critiques Oprah Winfrey's misunderstanding of God's jealousy, emphasizing that God desires fellowship for humanity's benefit. True understanding leads to faith and repentance in Christ.

The rise of influencer marketing has exposed both authenticity and hypocrisy within social media, even among Christian leaders. Many high-profile women project an image of godliness while living contrary to Biblical teachings. As a result, the article urges discernment, advising individuals to carefully assess the lives and doctrines of influencers they follow. Links mentioned: article, How influencer cartels manipulate social media: Fraudulent behaviour hidden in plain sight Christian female leaders whose curated presentation of their lifestyle does not match reality: Raechel Myers (founder of She Reads Truth).Diana Stone (formerly writer for She Reads Truth, conference speaker, magazine founder, writer for newspapers and periodicals, world traveler).Joanna Gaines (HGTV star of Fixer Upper, author, CEO of myriad corporations all named Magnolia Something).Priscilla Shirer (author, speaker, preacher, actress).Beth Moore (author, novelist, speaker, preacher, celebrity panelist)

In this reflection, I explore the connection between nature and biblical lessons, particularly the story of Jonah. I had challenged myself to contemplate God and scripture daily. I emphasize the importance of aligning thoughts with spiritual values, recognizing personal flaws, and seeking to cultivate godly desires while repenting for the ungodly. blog link here https://the-end-time.org/2025/01/13/mindful-meditations-jonah-and-daily-reflection/

Elizabeth Prata reviews Carrie Gress's book, The End of Woman, highlighting feminism's historical ties to Marxism and its harmful impact on society and individuals. Prata argues that feminism often leads to unfulfillment, exposing hypocrisy among its advocates. She recommends the book for understanding feminism's influences and encourages a return to Godly values for true fulfillment.

The article discusses a conversation between a motherly figure and young women about submission in marriage. It emphasizes that biblical submission applies only after marriage and that women should observe their fiancé's actions, particularly regarding respect for family and reliability. The text advises against marrying with the hope of future change, urging discernment in relationships.

The episode discusses first-class travel by Christian leaders, contrasting those who demonstrate stewardship with funds, like John MacArthur and Carl Hargrove, against those seen as extravagant, like Jesse Duplantis and Beth Moore. It emphasizes ethical concerns over using donor money for personal comfort, highlighting the more important mission to reach the lost. MacArthur said, on his early days of being a youth pastor and traveling. JMac witnessing to a Muslim on a flight,https://youtu.be/pP6M7OqnciA?si=53M_JkzMbh8v46jx Phil's explanation of JMac's travel arrangements: (in his 80s now) The clip of the conversation between Duplantis and Copeland on their justification of buying private jets with donor money is here. In 2017, Hillsong Conference paid for Moore and her daughter who was also an employee of Living Proof Ministries to fly coach to Australia. Moore used her donors' ministry money to upgrade to first class for herself and her daughter. Source Beth Moore Source 2023 Tax return explanation of why she needs to travel first class,

In this part 2 to a short series, I explore the tension between clean, spicy, and explicit themes in Christian Romance novels. The episode emphasizes biblical principles to guide readers, cautioning against idolatry in romantic expectations, & suggests alternatives to Christian romances. Part 1- Navigating Christian Romance Novels: What's Acceptable? All Charles Martin book synopses- https://rebeccajwhitman.com/2021/12/01/the-power-of-the-written-word-charles-martin-books/ The Christian Lover is a book by Dr. Michael A.G. Haykin where we read love letters from saints of the past. The book blurb says, "Each letter gives us a glimpse of what marriage should be: joyful companionship, deep passion, and unfailing commitment through the ups and downs of life." More here

Here is the question of the day: is it OK to read romances (like Harlequin & its ilk) if the sex isn't explicit? Are Christian romances a good substitute for secular romance genre reading?That question was posed to me from a long-time reader of this blog.I explore the complexities of Christian romance novels and the challenges of balancing faith with engaging narratives, avoiding sin and idols, and invite deeper contemplation. Links mentioned How far is too far? What does edgy mean and do we even need edgy? Why does it have to be called Christian fiction anyway- Tolkien's wasn't... In Christian fiction, how do we balance keeping the message strong and not watering it down while still wanting to reach readers beyond Christian bookstores or churches? Steve Laube wrote about edgy Christian fiction

Do you know what's precious to God? I do. And I didn't learn this in a vision or a prompt or intuition. God told us ladies what is precious to Him. It's in His word! Here it is: Your adornment must not be merely the external—braiding the hair, wearing gold jewelry, or putting on apparel; but it should be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. (1 Peter 3:3-4). I expound on this a little more, explaining what it MEANS to have a quiet spirit, and I ask some questions to help form your own framework for pursuing this spirit that God says is precious to Him.

Today I'm thinking about these two verses Cain talked to his brother Abel; and it happened that when they were in the field Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him. Genesis 4:8 Adam had relations with his wife again; and she gave birth to a son, and named him Seth, for, she said, “God has appointed me another child in place of Abel, because Cain killed him.” Genesis 4:25. and the painting by William Bouguereau (1888) which he titled The First Mourning, the moment when Adam and Eve found Abel's lifeless body.

The Passion Conference is a youth-aimed conference founded in 1995-1997 by Louie and Shelley Giglio. It regularly sells out and tens of thousands of 17-25 year olds attend. Is it a good conference? What is it about? Sadly it is one to avoid. In this essay I offer 7 reasons why. Links mentioned: 1 Timothy 2:12. Essay here explaining the scripture More info here on what the social gospel is. Further Resources: Exposing the Dangers of Passion 2025 with Dave Jenkins and Michelle Lesley, podcast 1hr and a half Todd Friel at Wretched Radio discussing the 2012 Lectio Divina incident at Passion, 16 min Spencer Smith warning about the 2022 Passion Conference in this 12 min video Chris Tomlin founded Passion Conference with Louie Giglio. Here is a review of Tomlin when he promotes heretic Joyce Meyer

I'm discussing what I read this year, my thoughts on books and reading, and setting goals with a reading challenge for 2025. Join me in setting a goal to read good books this year! Samuel Sey's thread on Harry Potter vs Lord of the Rings or Narnia is on Twitter/X here: https://x.com/SlowToWrite/status/1872745330535743654 Christian Reading Challenges, Challies G3 has a reading challenge Barnes & Noble has one as well

Year end wrap up for most listened to and most read pieces on the podcast and the blog. I hope your 2024 was defined by contentment in the Lord and that your 2025 is a happy one.

With the New Year upon us, many people are either finishing a previous Bible reading plan and perhaps looking for a different one for next year, or starting one for the first time. There are a lot of plans out there! Here are some suggestions both for picking a plan and for absorbing what you read once you begin- Links mentioned: Answers in Genesis video- Facebook: https://fb.watch/wKhCxZU7qw//Youtube: https://youtu.be/W-GPBmUVkoE?si=O8opzCfsHKxpYdf4 How to Eat your Bible: A Simple Approach to Learning and Loving the Word of God, book by Nate Pickowicz. Buy at all the usual places, including Amazon. Available on Kindle or Audible too John MacArthur article on How to Enjoy Bible Study. Ligonier lists 20 Reading Plans for 2025 Michelle Lesley has listed a huge variety of plans- Bible Reading Plans for the New Year. Pastor Jacob Abshire has an essay on Why I Ditched Bible Reading Plans

This is a great sermon during this Advent season about angels called "The Ministry of Angels". The pastor began by saying how many times angels are sung about in our traditional Christmas Carols. If you stop to think about it, they really are mentioned a lot. Angelology is a fascinating study, and there is much in the Bible about angels. But like most doctrines, it can and often is twisted by the unstable. It is a target for fringe theologians who spout fanciful theories and supposed visions. As Phil Johnson has said, "Few biblical topics have provoked more wild speculation and fruitless debate than the topic of angels." Because of this I am providing what I have found to be safe and solid material on angels for further study. After listening to the sermon I linked above, there are other great resources that explore the facts about these incredible beings. John MacArthur has several pieces about the different ministries of angels, including angel armies, (Angels: God's Invisible Army, Part 1 with other parts after this), entertaining angels (Ever Met an Angel?), Angelic Messengers, and others. Search for angels at gty.org. Phil Johnson wrote an essay at Ligonier called Angels: Messengers and Ministers of God. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preached two sermons on angels in his Great Doctrines series. One is called Good Angels. Sadly, there is no recording of his subsequent lecture titled "The Devil and the Fallen Angels" but there is a transcript you can read which I uploaded for the public. Here is the link to the transcribed sermon The Devil and the Fallen Angels by Lloyd-Jones. Randy Alcorn, author of the book 'Heaven', has several articles about angels at his website. How Do We Know That Seraphim and Cherubim Are Angels? Alcorn also answered this question In Their Own Realm, Do Angels Have Physicality? Spurgeon's Angelology: A Speculative Thought. In this sermon, Charles Spurgeon discusses the angels who ministered to Jesus after His temptation in the wilderness. Satan departing, angels ministering RC Sproul preached a two-part series simply called Angels. Now here's a little debate for you: do angels sing? I wrote about this a few years ago. Despite the hymns and carols noting that angels sing this or that, there is very little scriptural evidence that they do sing. But no scriptural evidence claiming they unequivocally do not sing. Hmmm. GotQuestions: Do Angels Sing? The End Time: Do Angels Sing? In which I look at the stances of some theologians who believe they do or do not, as well as offer some food for thought. In the end, lest we fall guilty of what Phil Johnson said above, that we engage in wild speculation or fruitless debate, let me end here with a link to a page listing scriptures in which angels are mentioned, and it says there are 499 scriptures (but 25 are noted here).

Before I was saved I obsessively sought a foundation, a structure, a plan, an order… I chronicled all my life's daily events, hoping a pattern would emerge. None did. But I felt due to the world's creation being so orderly, so regular- like the stars in their course, the tides, regularity of seasons, there HAD to be some external composition to it. I was relieved God found me and revealed Himself to me, through His word. THERE is order. See these two Advent verses 700 years apart! Listen in to hear what they are and exult with me the incredible benefit to knowing God personally!

It's the time of year when we regard the Nativity. The Babe's miraculous conception, His soon arrival, and the lowly circumstances of his birth. During this time it is natural to center thoughts, sermons, devotionals, etc, on Mary, the Messiah's mother. Her submission to the News, her Magnificat of praise, and her visitation with cousin Elizabeth- who has a miracle of her own to report- are crucial elements of the story. There can be a tendency to exalt Mary's role beyond its bounds. By the same token, a tendency to downplay her role as a reaction to not wanting to exalt her. Let's take a balanced view of Mary of the nativity. Links mentioned: RC Sproul "The Messiah's Mother" The Truth of the Nativity, by John MacArthur

Relating the wonders of the free ministry of Chapel Library. This month's issue of their periodical Free Grace Broadcaster is titled The Wonderful Love of Jesus and it contains some moving and incredible writing that definitely got me into the Advent mood. I also introduce my upcoming series (tomorrow) Thirty Days of Jesus I publish every year. Resources Mentioned: Chapel Library - You can search for material by author, topic, etc. Free Grace Broadcaster #270 The Wonderful Love of Jesus GotQuestions explains the hypostatic union (the dual natures of Jesus)

There comes a time when perhaps the drive to decorate one's home for Christmas wanes. There could be a lot of reasons. In today's episode I discuss reasons people may want to decorate for the holidays full on, or pared down, or not at all.

Mr Peters sends out a monthly newsletter bringing his followers up to date on his ministry activity. This month, November 2024, I read the following wonderfully encouraging item. Tune in to see what is so refreshing and praiseworthy to the Lord!

I've been a lifelong reader and a lifelong accumulator of books. I've always read and I want to read. But as I age I noticed I'm not reading much any more. I WANT to. I just don't. Why is that? In this episode I explore some possible reasons. I set about to solve this mystery for myself and vow to begin my reading hobby again.

Did you know there was an Irish preacher from the 1800s known as "The Tornado in the Pulpit"? It got me thinking about some famous Christians or historical figures and the nicknames given tot hem which firmly attached and they are always known by. Tune in to hear about it!

It's hard to believe that someone couldn't or wouldn't hear or see something as big and obvious as a train, but sadly, that is not the case. Folk Singer John Prine was affected by the incident of a young altar boy who belonged to an Episcopal church that Prine was working in. The altar boy was struck from behind and killed by a slow moving commuter train. The boy was apparently day-dreaming as he ambled down the tracks. Prine wrote the song Bruised Orange about the incident. Tune is to hear the connection between trains and discernment...

I admire people who are committed to prison ministry. It's important to heed the Lord's commission to try and reach every tribe, tongue, and nation no matter where they are, in the 10/40 window of the hard and closed countries or behind bars where they cannot come to us in church so we must go to them. But like everywhere, we need to be careful who we allow 'in' to our mind and soul. Listen in as I discuss discernment.

In the biblical Eastern lands, which many call Oriental, hospitality was woven into the fabric of the culture with hard unwritten rules. A man's reputation rested by how well he hosted guests. How did Abraham do when the three visitors arrived and told him of the doom of Sodom? How did Lot do the next day when the angels arrived at the gate of Sodom? Let's compare. Links mentioned: Hospitality and Apostle John's shocking words about false teachers Anxious about Hospitality? One way to be hospitable Music attribution Track New York Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com⁠⁠ Track London Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com

And that is the crux. It's the reverse of the Pride pics. If it makes me, a Christian, happy to see God's working in families and marriages, visual depictions of a couple's blessing of children or a marriage succeeding under His ordinance and guidance, it must grind the sinner's gears to see them. Further Resources Beauty and the Best, RC Sproul The Beauty of our God, RC Sproul Should Christians Be Countercultural? Music attribution Track New York Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com⁠⁠ Track London Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com

The Bible tells us to offer hospitality because you never know when we might be entertaining an angel and not know it. But remember, not all angels are sent by God, some are sent by satan. Be wise, discerning, and vigilant. What a blessing it would be to learn in heaven that we HAD entertained an angel!

The simple man defeated the famous philosopher in a debate, stunning even the Philosopher! Tune in to hear what the simple man said, Book mentioned: James Durham, The Scandal of False Teaching Rufinus: Ecclesiastical History, book 10, chapter 3 Music attribution Track New York Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com⁠⁠ Track London Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com

Burning Man is coming up next month. A lot of people go. The event lasts 9 days, and there is a blistering desert heat, lung killing dust, and a long walk to the portapotties. So why do upwards of 80,000 people attend? Music attribution Track New York Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com⁠⁠ Track London Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com

There are all different ways to process the theological content we take in. Blogging, talking, sermon notes, journaling, prayer journals, crafting, and Bible art... How do you? Music attribution Track New York Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com⁠⁠ Track London Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com

I saw a meme on Facebook that made me laugh. I can't find it again, but it went something like, 'I have prayer ADHD, I start, drift into thinking other things, then come back saying 'Where was I, Lord?' I think we have all had the same experience. Our fleshly minds want to think of anything except compass point north, Jesus Christ. It zones out on us, drifts off, creates a grocery list, listens to the birds outside, or the traffic, anything but laser focus on the throne of grace. Why is it so hard? The Hidden Life of Prayer by David McIntyre is online for free. https://www.fivesolas.com/hiddnint.htm

Scripture urges us to pray. We have the duty of continual communion with Him. And yet, so often we don't pray as we ought. Why is this? Link mentioned: David McIntyre: The Hidden Life of Prayer Music attribution Track New York Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com⁠⁠ Track London Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com

Hospitality in Bible times in Palestine was a serious matter. There were cultural expectations, protocols, and traditions. The word host or hospitable is from a Greek word philoxenia meaning "love of strangers". Hospitality generally means 'the gracious treatment of guests in your home'. There are many examples of hospitality in the Bible...but there ARE times we are to deny hospitality to others. Tune in to hear! Music attribution Track New York Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com⁠⁠ Track London Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com

This podcast isn't about Robert Morris. On June 14, 2024, a woman named Cindy Clemishire in partnership with The Wartburg Watch (a church sexual abuse reporting and support page) announced she had been molested by Robert Morris in 1981 when she was 12. Morris, now age 63, is the pastor of the largest mega-church in the United States. He was selected as then-candidate President Trump's spiritual advisor. He has been in the preaching business since he was 19 years old. He is incredibly famous. But this isn't about Robert Morris's fame. What IS it about then? Tune in to hear some encouraging things. Music attribution Track New York Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com⁠⁠ Track London Music by ⁠⁠https://www.fiftysounds.com