THE MARK OF THE BEAST - THE TWO WITNESSES

This post investigates the timing of the mark of the beast in terms of a futurist, premillennial, pre-wrath rapture perspective.

And I will grant authority to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth. (Revelation 11:3-4).

The primary texts concerning the two witnesses are Revelation 11 and Zechariah 4. Their description as fire-breathing olive trees and lampstands suggests two awesome individuals endowed by God with superhuman power:

And if anyone would harm them, fire pours from their mouth and consumes their foes. If anyone would harm them, this is how he is doomed to be killed. 6They have the power to shut the sky, that no rain may fall during the days of their prophesying, and they have power over the waters to turn them into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague, as often as they desire. (Revelation 11:5-6 cf. Exodus 7:17; 1 Kings 17:11; Luke 4:25).

The two witnesses are described as both prophets and witnesses. The definition of "prophet" is: "A person regarded as an interpreter or spokesperson for God; one through whom God speaks." In the New Testament: "..especially future events, and in p*articular such as relate to the cause and kingdom of God and to human salvation."{1} Jesus says to his disciples: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8). Both Elijah and John the Baptist wore sackcloth.. Biblically sackcloth is a sign of woe or mourning and it is also a sign of repentance. (Matthew 3:4; 11:21) The two witnesses will therefore proclaim the gospel from Jerusalem for a period of 3.5 years, or 1,260 days. Although local to Jerusalem, their ministry will be worldwide, due, in all probability, to the internet and/or other technological advances. (Revelation 11:9-10).

The identity of the two witnesses is something of a mystery. Zechariah was intrigued by this question, and he enquired of the angel: "What are these", three times without receiving a clear answer. (Zechariah 4:4, 11,12). The strange explanation: "These are the two anointed ones who stand by the Lord of the whole earth.”(Zechariah 4:14). Some speculate that the two witnesses are Elijah and some other OT prophet, and others speculate that they are cherubim or other angelic beings. Since their identity is obscure in the scriptures, I will not attempt to identify them. 

The time frame of the ministry of the two witnesses is a key factor. The Book of Revelation gives us precise information regarding both the time of their death and the period they will minister. They die and are resurrected before the seventh trumpet is blown, towards the end of the second woe. (Revelation 11:3, 7-15). This places them decisively in the second half of the 70th week, during the great tribulation and during the first six trumpet judgements. With such detailed information, it is very difficult to come to a different conclusion, although inexplicably, some teachers do give alternative time frames for their ministry.

Notably, the ministry of the two witnesses coincides with the great signs done by the false prophet, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in front of people. (Revelation 13:13-14). I don't rule out the possibility of other agents of Satan also performing signs during this period: For false christs and false prophets (plural) will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. (Matthew 24:24). The battle between God and Satan is graphically played out on the earth during the 1260 days, with agents from both opposing parties performing great signs. The signs performed by the false prophet are greatly welcomed by those who have come under the influence of the strong delusion. (2 Thessalonians 2:11). Conversely, the two witnesses will be universally hated. Their message will be abhorrent and the signs they perform will torment the earth dwellers. Ultimately they will be killed by the beast that rises from the bottomless pit. (Revelation 11:7). From the perspective of the true church, the two witnesses will undoubtedly provide much needed encouragement and motivation to stand firm during great tribulation when there will be unprecedented persecution and martyrdom. (Matthew 10:22; 24:13). After the tribulation is cut short, the two witnesses will continue to testify up until the end of the second woe. (Revelation 11:14).

Following the resurrection of the two witnesses, seven thousand people will be killed in the great earthquake of Revelation 11:13, ..and the rest were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven. This phrase implies conversion. (Joshua 7:19; Revelation 14:7; 16:9). If this interpretation is correct, then the remainder of the people in the city of Jerusalem who give glory to God, are the very last people on earth to be saved immediately before the third woe begins. (Revelation 11:13).

There will also be proclamations/warnings from three angels, beginning with the declaration of the "everlasting gospel" (Matthew 24:14). This will be followed by warnings of impending judgements and will conclude with a strong warning not to worship the beast and its image or to take the mark. (Revelation 14:6-11). Since the judgements to come are imminent, it seems logical that the mark is also imminent, particularly as the warnings are preceded by the declaration of the "everlasting gospel". No Christian witness remains on the earth after the two witnesses are resurrected and after the proclamations of the three angels are delivered. It is difficult to place a precise time frame on the three angels, but I now begin to think that their proclamations may occur after the tribulation, possibly after the two witnesses are killed at the end of the second woe. (Revelation 11:14).

The pre-wrath view places the rapture between the sixth and seventh seal of Revelation. Following the rapture, the seventh seal reveals seven angels and seven trumpet judgements. (Revelation 8 to 11). The first four angels/trumpets wreak devastation upon the earth and the sea rather than directly upon people. (Revelation 8:6-13).

The fifth trumpet is the first of three woes and concerns the release of the locust/scorpion/demonic entities that will torment unbelievers for five months. Interestingly, there is no mention of the mark of the beast in this passage. The torment inflicted by these entities will only apply to those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads:

1And the fifth angel blew his trumpet, and I saw a star fallen from heaven to earth, and he was given the key to the shaft of the bottomless pit. 2He opened the shaft of the bottomless pit, and from the shaft rose smoke like the smoke of a great furnace, and the sun and the air were darkened with the smoke from the shaft. 3Then from the smoke came locusts on the earth, and they were given power like the power of scorpions of the earth. 4They were told not to harm the grass of the earth or any green plant or any tree, but only those people who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. 5They were allowed to torment them for five months, but not to kill them, and their torment was like the torment of a scorpion when it stings someone. 6And in those days people will seek death and will not find it. They will long to die, but death will flee from them. (Revelation 9:4-6).

The sixth trumpet judgement involves the four angels bound at the Euphrates river who are released in order to kill one third of mankind. (Revelation 9:13-19). Here again we find no reference to the mark of the beast. Unbelieving humanity refuse to repent even at this late stage, though it appears that the option to do so is available:

The rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands nor give up worshipping demons and idols of gold and silver and bronze and stone and wood, which cannot see or hear or walk, nor did they repent of their murders or their sorceries or their sexual immorality or their thefts. (Revelation 9:20-21).

Revelation 13 is a parenthetical chapter outlining the two beasts activities during the 42 months. (Revelation 13:5). The mark of the beast occupies final two verses of this chapter. (Revelation 13:16-18). According to the pre-wrath view, the tribulation is cut short by the rapture for the sake of the elect. (Matthew 24:22; Mark 13:20). However, the activities of the beast and the false prophet continue for the remainder of the 1260/1290 days beyond the rapture. Despite the devastation that has occurred on the earth, the two beasts and their followers continue in their rebellion until the appearance of Jesus Christ:

And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. (Revelation 19:19).

The false prophet applies intense pressure in order to coerce people into worshipping the beast and its image and to take the mark. Once the mark is taken, repentance becomes an impossibility and the final fate of unbelievers is sealed. (Revelation 13:16-17;14:9). Theoretically, it appears that people are free to repent right up until the seventh trumpet is sounded and the third woe begins, although the scriptures indicate that they will not repent. (2 Thessalonians 2:11). If these people had already taken the mark of the beast, then the ministry of the two witnesses and the proclamations of the three angels would be superfluous since we are told that the mark is irrevocable. (Revelation 14:9-10). This indicates that the mark is not fully enforced until after the resurrection of the two witnesses and the proclamations of the three angels. The shift occurs when the seventh trumpet is sounded and the first bowl of wrath is released. The first bowl of God's wrath, administered by an angel, is the first reference in the scriptures to anyone actually having received the mark:

So the first angel went and poured out his bowl on the earth, and harmful and painful sores came upon the people who bore the mark of the beast and worshipped its image. (Revelation 16:2). 

Many teachers falsely identify the 14400 sealed from every tribe of Israel as evangelists. (Revelation 7:1-8). I will address this question in a further post.

Undoubtedly we are moving towards a cashless society and mark of the beast technology. This indicates that we are not too far off from the great tribulation and the return of Jesus Christ in my view. As such, it is important for believers to search the scriptures for their source of information rather than accepting other views, particularly those associated with the popular pre-trib "Left Behind" perspective which is erroneous in so many respects. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prewrath

1. https://biblehub.com/greek/4396.htm

A WARNING: BEN FITZGERALD 10TH MARCH CHROMA CHURCH LEICESTER

I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. (Acts 20:29-30).

Chroma Church in Leicester was formerly Leicester City Vineyard Church, an affiliate of the Vineyard movement led by apostate John Wimber from the early 1980s. Chroma Church left the Vineyard Movement in 2017 after a period of ten years. Whatever the reasons for their departure from Vineyard, sadly it was not due to doctrinal issues. Chroma Church state unequivocally that their mission remains the same. {1}

Chroma Church are deeply influenced by the present apostasy that has swept over the major Christian denominations. On the 10th of March, Chroma Church will be hosting Ben Fitzgerald at their "Finding God Event". {2}  Ben Fitzgerald was formerly a pastor at Bethel Church in Redding, California. He is currently the leader of Awakening Europe and GODfest Ministries.

The main issue affecting many charismatic and Pentecostal churches is the de-emphasis of scripture in favour of the false claims of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). 

The NAR can be briefly summed up as follows:

Ecumenism is the ultimate betrayal of Jesus Christ involving the de-emphasis of doctrine for the sake of bringing all Christian denominations together under one tent. In particular the NAR aligns itself with the false system of Roman Catholicism.

Dominionism is the false assertion that God is restoring the so called "lost offices of church governance", namely the offices of Prophet and Apostle. NAR leaders de-emphasise doctrine and usurp the authority of the scriptures via claims of new revelations and greater authority than Jesus' original apostles. (Revelation 2:2). Dominion theology/Kingdom Now/Third Wave is the false assertion that focuses on believers taking literal dominion of the earth. (John 18:36). Bethel Church attempts to achieve this by their infamous Seven Mountain Mandate.

The NAR is known for its overemphasis on signs and wonders at the expense of scriptural authority. (Matthew 16:4).

Below is some information about Ben Fitzgerald from the Bethel website:

"Originally from Australia, Ben Fitzgerald was on staff at Bethel in Redding for several years when in 2014, Jesus showed him a vision at a field to take back Europe. After many confirmations, Bethel sent Ben to Germany where he and his team now live and host city wide events across the continent called Awakening Europe. These events, funded primarily by giving, serve three primary functions: to equip believers to share Jesus with no fear, to unify the church for God’s plan for their nation, and to win many new people to God through mass outreaches." {3}

Ben Fitzgerald fully supports his parents, Jen and Ken Hodges, who lead the pseudo Christian ministry Christalighnment. This supposed ministry promotes "..accurate, personal destiny reading bookings, dream interpretation, spiritual cleansing, relationship counselling or healing..", via their Destiny Reading Cards, or more accurately, Christian tarot cards, as their critics contend. {4} Christalignment is anything but biblical and is based on New Age occultism.

"Christalignment thinks it's a good idea to take and then post photos of the naked people who visit their booth for 'Destiny Card' readings" {5} 

Ben Fitzgerald promotes the bizarre practice of "Grave Sucking " aka "Grave Soaking", which in reality is necromancy. (Isaiah 8:19). Bill and Beni Johnson of Bethel Church Redding appear to have initiated this wicked practice a few years ago. The many detestable practices at Bethel go from the sublime to the ridiculous and are too numerous to mention here. Bethel claim that the “glory cloud” of God’s shekinah presence often manifests in their worship services and that the appearance angel feathers is also a regular occurrence. Bethel's obsession with false signs and wonders at the expense of the scriptures is truly astounding!

Below is a short video of Ben Fitzgerald promoting the practice of grave sucking:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4B2M_1x8BM&feature=youtu.be

1. https://www.chroma.church/ourstory 

2. https://www.chroma.church/events
3. https://www.bethel.com/missionaries/ben-fitzgerald/

4. https://www.christalignment.org/
5. http://www.piratechristian.com/museum-of-idolatry/2018/1/topless-dancing-at-christalignment-workshop-does-kris-vallotton-approve

Further information about this subject can be found at churchwatchcentral.com
https://churchwatchcentral.com/2018/05/24/gravesucking-ben-fitzgerald-promoting-awakening-australia-will-he-rally-more-narpostles/

JACOB PRASCH HAS RAISED THE BAR TO AN ALTOGETHER DIFFERENT LEVEL!!!

Evil Speaking

Arthur Pink, 1935

"He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin" (Proverbs 13:3). "A guard upon the lips is a guard to the soul—he who is careful, who thinks twice before he speaks once, that, if he has thought evil, lays his hand upon his mouth to suppress it; he who keeps a strong bridle on his tongue, and a strict hand on the bridle—he keeps his soul from a great deal of guilt and grief, and saves himself the trouble of many bitter reflections on himself, and others upon him" (Matthew Henry). Alas, how many are now saying—by their very attitude and actions "our lips are our own—who is Lord over us?" (Psalm 12:4).

"Brothers, do not speak evil of one another" (James 4:11). Is not this a word which is much needed by some of us today? Alas, in some quarters the habit of discrediting others behind their backs has become so common that it is regarded almost as a matter of course; the mentioning to others of a brother's faults or a sister's failures, the repeating of unfavorable reports which have come to our ears—is so general that few appear to make any conscience thereof. Nevertheless, God still says "Brothers, do not speak evil of one another." Yes, this is an exhortation which requires to be prayerfully taken to heart, by not a few. Personally, the writer has to acknowledge with shame that this Divine injunction has not had the restraining influence upon his unruly tongue which it ought, and in what follows he desires to preach unto himself as well as to others. How solemn it is to observe that one of the sins mentioned in that awful catalogue enumerated in Romans 1:29-31, is that of detraction or injuring the reputation of others, "whisperers, backbiters". Herein does the corruption of man's vitiated nature evidence itself. To stain the good reputation of another is highly reprehensible.

God commanded us to love our neighbor as our self, and this requires that I am to be concerned not only about his person and property—but to protect his good name. "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches" (Proverbs 22:1), and therefore to rob a man of his good name—is worse than stealing his property. A citizen of Zion is thus described, "One who has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman" (Psalm 15:3).

"Don't speak evil against each other, brethren" (James 4:11). That which is here forbidden, is the saying of anything, be it true or false, to the harm of another. God requires that our words should be governed by "the law of kindness" (Proverbs 31:26), and anything which would hurt or injure the reputation of another is to be rigidly shunned. Whenever I cannot speak well of my brother or sister, I must say nothing at all. It is devilish to take delight in exposing the faults of fellow-Christians, and stirring up prejudice and bitter feelings against them (Rev. 12:10). God requires that our words should agree with love—as well as with truth. Since Christians are brethren, the last thing they should be guilty of is defaming one another.

"Do not pay attention to every word people say" (Eccl. 7:21). "Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causes to err from the words of knowledge" (Proverbs 19:27). Beware of evil listening! Those who receive tales about others, who delight to hear of the failings of their brethren, encourage evil speakers in their sin and are partakers of their guilt. "The north wind drives away rain—so does an angry countenance a backbiting tongue" (Proverbs 25:23). The Christian is not only bidden to abstain from all evil speaking himself—but is required to discourage this sin in others by frowning on it and endeavoring to disapprove it. Slanders would not be so readily spoken as they are—if they were not so readily heard. "Many abuse those spoken evil of, only in hopes to curry favor with those they speak to" (Matthew Henry). Disappoint them by showing your disapproval.

Since it be a grievous sin to speak evil of a brother in Christ, how much greater is the offence when it is committed against one of His ministering servants! True, they are not faultless, yet their blemishes are not to be blazed abroad—but should be covered with the mantle of love. "Why were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?" (Num. 12:8)—observe the emphasis—you should be afraid to speak evil against any one, much more against My honored servant. It is written, "Against an elder, receive not an accusation—but before two or three witnesses" (1 Tim. 5:19). It is at our peril that we say or do anything against the servants of God, for He reckons those who touch them as touching "the apple of His eye" (Zech. 2:8). "Touch not My anointed, and do My prophets no harm" (Psalm 105:15) is His express command.

To speak evil of others, proceeds from ill will or malice, either desiring that they should be made odious in the esteem of others, or being quite indifferent if that effect be produced. To say that no harm is intended, is to talk foolishly, "Just as damaging as a mad man shooting a lethal weapon, is someone who deceives his friend and then says—I was only joking." (Proverbs 26:18, 19). Much repeating of the ill reports about others, issues from an uncharitable readiness to believe the worst, "For I heard the defaming of many, fear on every side. Report, say they, and we will report it" (Jer. 20:10). But the chief cause of this evil is an unruly tongue, nor are we likely to seek grace for bridling that member, until we really make conscience of this sin.

It is both striking and searching to note how often the Holy Spirit addresses Himself to God's children on this subject. Many are the verses in the Book of Proverbs which contain beneficial instruction for the right use of our tongues. So also in the New Testament, exhortations are frequently given against the wrong use of our tongues. "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice" (Eph. 4:31). "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt" (Col. 4:6).

"Therefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby" (1 Peter 2:1, 2). There must be the definite and daily "laying aside" of these bad habits if we are to preserve a healthy appetite for spiritual things. "For he who will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no deceit" (1 Peter 3:10). Here is one of the Divine rules of longevity, "evil speaking" has more ill effect upon the health than many imagine!

But is all speaking evil of another unlawful? No, though even here it is hard to keep clear of sinning. There are times when it is a duty to caution our friends against those who might prove a harm to them. If I know one is about to buy an article that has been misrepresented, or trust some money to a dishonest person, then I must faithfully raise my voice in warning. If I should be summoned as a witness in court, then I am bound to tell what I know. Yet, where the glory of God and the honour of His Gospel is at stake, or where there is danger of a brother being imposed upon or wronged, and my duty to speak out is plain, nevertheless, the following cautions need to be heeded.

First, take pains to fully verify what you have heard, and make sure that what you relate is true.

Second, do it in a right spirit—not censoriously, nor with delight—but with godly sorrow.

Third, be impartial, and if occasion requires you to mention another's faults, be careful not to conceal his virtues.

Except where the glory of God plainly requires it, and the good of our neighbor or brother demands it—we must refrain from all evil speaking of others. If we are duly occupied with and humbled over our own many faults, we shall have neither time nor inclination to dwell upon or publish those of others. If we properly heed the exhortation of Philippians 4:8, we shall cultivate the habit of admiring the graces in our brethren—instead of like filthy flies settling on their sores. Certain it is, that if we are not tender of the reputation of others, God will make us taste of the bitterness of this affliction for ourselves, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked—for whatever a man sows, that shall he also reap" (Gal. 6:7). "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you" (Matt. 7:2).

How solemn is that word, "They speak evil of you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead" (1 Peter 4:4, 5). Well may we pray, "Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord! Keep watch over the door of my lips!" (Psalm 141:3)

gracegems.org/Pink/evil_speaking.htm 

CLOSINGSTAGES: Fact Checking Jacob Prasch ~ “THUS SAITH THE LORD”, on TBN

"Rabbi" William Hallbrook
Sar Shalom Messianic Congregation

"Rabbi is a graduate of the University of Akron. Having served in various capacities of ministry to both Jewish and Gentile communities, he currently holds two ordinations and is licensed under His Image -Hope Ministries. He has served full time in ministry since the 90s. Rabbi has appeared on various television and radio programs, including TBN. He has faithfully lead Sar Shalom since it’s beginning, with his lovely wife (on the inside and out!) and many beautiful children." http://sarshalommessianic.com/meet-the-rabbi/

But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers. (Matthew 23:8).

Below is a picture of Bill Cloud teaching at Sar Shalom Messianic Congregation, the same place Jacob Prasch will be speaking in just a few short weeks. Also here is a link that shows Bill Cloud on TBN/Perry Stone’s show. How will Prasch justify associating with these men after he has publicly declared a “Thus saith the Lord” not to?
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=bill+cloud+ministries+on+TBN&&view=detail&mid=1AA83AB0E40B2A4141CF1AA83AB0E40B2A4141CF&&FORM=VRDGAR


Jacob Prasch: Should Believers Appear on TBN?
Published 14th April 2016.

MORIEL UPDATE: JACOB PRASCH IS WITCHFINDER GENERAL

Jacob Prasch is Witchfinder General from tbckawaii on Vimeo.

The article Prasch's attack stemmed from can be viewed here: antonbosch.org/Articles/English%202010/True%20or%20False.html

ANTON BOSCH'S RESPONSE TO PRASCH ON FACEBOOK:

https://www.facebook.com/anton.bosch.127

"What I Actually Believe
In the light of a recent video that falsely attacks what I believe and accuses me of heresy, it is necessary for me to clear up what I actually believe on three points:
Successionism and Impartation
I have been very clear in my teaching over the years that I reject both those ideas. I do not believe that gifts, ministries or offices can be passed from one person (or generation) to another. As early as 2007 in my book Building Blocks of the Church I devoted a page and a half (pp143,144) to a rebuttal of the idea of (apostolic) succession. I said, inter alia: “...a personal gift cannot be bequeathed.” As recently as December 2016 in my audio recordings dealing with 2Timothy 1:6, I deal with, and oppose, the idea of impartation (38 minute mark). Any statement that I believe that a gift or office or ministry can be passed from one person to another is not the truth. Gifts, anointings, ministries, and offices cannot be passed from one to another through the laying on of hands or any other method. The church can only recognize gifts that God has given (1Corinthians 12:11). The body of truth, on the other hand, is passed from one generation to the next through the process of making disciples: “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” (2Timothy 2:2)
Women Teaching Men
Again, this is a concept I have consistently taught against for the past 48 years. I am often asked about the role of women in the church and my standard reply is that "women can do anything but they cannot teach or usurp authority over men". The Scriptures are plain: “And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence.” (1Timothy 2:12). I have not deviated from this position for 48 years and my teachings are replete with statements to this effect.
Eternally Begotten
I believe that the Lord Jesus Christ is eternal (co-eternal with the Father and the Holy Spirit). He is without beginning and end. “Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.” (John 8:58) I reject the idea that Jesus was “begotten”, was “generated” or “came forth” in eternity past since it diminishes the fact of his eternality and therefore His deity and is born out of Arianism.
I have not deviated from these teachings and have believed and taught them consistently for almost five decades now and am happy to provide further supporting evidence for any of the above."


Statement of Faith - Anton Bosch:
http://antonbosch.org/statement-of-faith 

• That there is but one God, a personal conscious Being, Creator of all things seen and unseen, eternal (without beginning or end) as three distinct Persons: the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost.
• That the Word became flesh, and was born of the virgin Mary, henceforth to be known as the only begotten Son of God, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: Who lived a sinless life, was crucified, died, and rose again. We hold that Jesus will return soon to establish His kingdom..

CHRISTIAN MINDFULNESS DAY: MEADOWS COMMUNITY CHURCH WIGSTON

I am posting this warning about Mindfulness Christian Meditation due to the 'Christian Mindfulness Day' being promoted by Meadows Community Church at The King's Centre in Wigston near Leicester on the 2nd of February: http://meadowscc.org.uk/event-items/christian-mindfulness-day/

Christian Concern have published a short YouTube video warning that Mindfulness is a Buddhist form of meditation that is actually at odds with Christianity. Mindfulness is a form of the rigorous Buddhist meditation called vipassana (insight), or a form of another kind of Buddhist meditation known asanapanasmrti (awareness of the breath). M.B.S.R. therapy (mindfulness-based stress reduction) seeks to lay aside all extraneous thinking and to focus on the self in a non judgemental way.

Eastern meditation advocates mental passivity and other practices that can put people at risk of being influenced by demonic entities. Mindfulness is certainly anti-Christian. In contrast, Christian "meditation" is the scriptural practice of actively thinking about specific things that will edify Christians in their faith.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8).

Dr Peter Jones speaks about the dangers of mindfulness.

Time does not permit at the present, but I hope to write in further depth on this subject at a later date. I believe that the warning should go out now to those who are considering attending this event at the The King's Centre. 

THE MARK OF THE BEAST: THE THREEE ANGELS PROCLAMATIONS

This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666. (Revelation 13:18).

Many Christians are expecting the mark of the beast to occupy a major part of the great tribulation. The teaching that the image and mark of the beast comes into effect at the same time, or shortly after the Antichrist proclaims himself to be God at the mid-point of the 70th week of Daniel is widespread. (2 Thessalonians 2:2-4). However, the scriptures suggest a late implementation of the mark of the beast that challenge the widely accepted mid-point position. This information does not affect the timing of the rapture or the persecution of Christians during the great tribulation, but only the time that the mark of the beast is implemented. 

The mark of the beast is found in the following verses of scripture: Revelation 13:15-18, 14:9, 11, 15:2, 16:2, 19:20 and 20:4. The fact that the mark is not mentioned at all in the first twelve chapters of the Book of Revelation is perhaps worth noting.

Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image foreshadows the image of the beast: King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold, whose height was sixty cubits and its breadth six cubits. Six musical instruments summoned the people to worship the image. (Daniel 3:1-7). Antiochus IV Epiphanes (c.215-164 BC), partially fulfilled Daniel's prophecy when he erected the statue of Zeus Olympios in the temple. Antiochus holds an important key to the final abomination of desolation.

The Antichrist is "revealed" at the mid point of the 70th week of Daniel:

Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God. (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 cf. Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:15).

The covenant the Antichrist makes with many at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel will be broken at the half way point. This event coincides with his self proclamation of deity. 

And he shall make a strong covenant with many for one week, and for half of the week he shall put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate, until the decreed end is poured out on the desolator.” (Daniel 9:27).

Certain things will happen after the Antichrist is revealed at the mid point of the week and before the mark of the beast becomes compulsory as a condition of buying and selling. As such we can safely rule out an immediate implementation of the mark at the mid point. Firstly, the second beast, the false prophet, deceives those who dwell on the earth by performing great signs. After the people are deceived by the signs, the false prophet instructs them to make an image for the beast. Those who refuse to worship the image are martyred. The third element, the mark i.e. the name of the beast or the number of its name, seems to coincide with the image of the beast. The following is a synopsis of these events rather than a specific timeline:

11Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb and it spoke like a dragon. 12It exercises all the authority of the first beast in its presence, and makes the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose mortal wound was healed. 13It performs great signs, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in front of people, 14and by the signs that it is allowed to work in the presence of the beast it deceives those who dwell on earth, telling them to make an image for the beast that was wounded by the sword and yet lived. 15And it was allowed to give breath to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast might even speak and might cause those who would not worship the image of the beast to be slain. 16Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, 17so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name. 18This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666. (Revelation 13:11-18).

Various scriptures seem to contradict the implementation of the mark of the beast at or around the mid point of the 70th week.

And from the time that the regular burnt offering is taken away and the abomination that makes desolate is set up, there shall be 1,290 days. Blessed is he who waits and arrives at the 1,335 days. (Daniel 12:11-12).

The length of the tribulation is 3.5 prophetic years or 1260 days (cut short). Various theories exist regarding the 1290 and the 1335 days. We know that Daniel 12 refers to the time of the end, rather than to Antiochus Epiphanes. Jesus referred to the "abomination that makes desolate" (abomination of desolation), in Matthew 24:15: “So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand).. In this verse, Jesus referred to and validated Daniel 9:27. If the "abomination of desolation" is the Antichrist as the scriptures suggest, then the later implementation of the image/mark of the beast is excluded from the stated timeline. (Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4).

The pre-wrath view places the three angels proclamations before the great tribulation is cut short, when God's wrath upon unbelievers becomes imminent. (Revelation 14:6-14). The reason for this view is that the rapture (the harvest of the earth) Revelation 14:14-16, presumes that Revelation 14:6-16 is chronological. However since Revelation 14 is parenthetical, I am unsure of the exact timing of the angels proclamations.

The first angel (Revelation 14:7) proclaims the everlasting gospel and warns of the impending wrath: the hour of his judgement has come. The second angel (Revelation 14:8) proclaims in the prophetic aorist that Babylon the great is fallen. The people of the earth are given one last opportunity to make the critical decision to turn from their sin and trust in Christ to receive His gift of everlasting life. Revelation 14:6 refers to every nation, tribe, language and people. (Matthew 24:14).  In particular, the third angel warns people of the consequences of worshipping the beast and its image and taking the mark. It is unlikely that the angels would proclaim the gospel worldwide and give such dire warnings about the mark ex post facto. It seems reasonable to assume that if the mark was compulsory prior to this proclamation, the majority would have taken it rather than face the prospect of starvation. (Revelation 13:17). In other words, if the mark had been compulsory prior to the third angels proclamation, then the warning would be superfluous.

6Then I saw another angel flying directly overhead, with an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people. 7And he said with a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.”

8Another angel, a second, followed, saying, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, she who made all nations drink the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality.”

9And another angel, a third, followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, 10he also will drink the wine of God’s wrath, poured full strength into the cup of his anger, and he will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. 11And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshipers of the beast and its image, and whoever receives the mark of its name.” (Revelation 14:6-9).

Following the proclamations of the three angels there is a call for the endurance of the saints. (Revelation 14:12). This indicates a relatively short period of time before the tribulation is cut short and the wrath of God is implemented. Some will die in the Lord during this unknown, but brief period of time. (Revelation 14:13). These particular believers who die in the Lord appear to be the fifth seal martyrs. The fifth seal is a critical marker that refers to the fifth seal martyrs: 

9When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. 10They cried out with a loud voice, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” 11Then they were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete, who were to be killed as they themselves had been. (Revelation 6:9-11).

Those who take the mark of the beast will not be saved. (Revelation 14:10-11 cf. Daniel 7:9-10, Daniel 7:14, Daniel 7:26-27; Revelation 11:15). The eternal gospel proclaimed by the first angel in Revelation 14:6 is the final appeal to unbelievers before the wrath of God is executed on the beast and on those who worship him. The scriptures are unequivocal.. this particular group of people have utterly rejected the eternal unalterable truth of the gospel, and their opportunity to receive eternal salvation has come to an end. This is further confirmed in Revelation 16. Revelation 16:2 is the first instance that refers to those who have taken the mark. The first bowl describes a specific judgement upon the people who have taken the mark after the seventh seal is broken. This does not begin until after the mark of the beast is enacted.

So the first angel went and poured out his bowl on the earth, and harmful and painful sores came upon the people who bore the mark of the beast and worshiped its image. (Revelation 16:2).

The fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and it was allowed to scorch people with fire. They were scorched by the fierce heat, and they cursed the name of God who had power over these plagues. They did not repent and give him glory. (Revelation 16:8-9).

The fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and its kingdom was plunged into darkness. People gnawed their tongues in anguish and cursed the God of heaven for their pain and sores. They did not repent of their deeds. (Revelation 16:10-11).

The rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands nor give up worshiping demons and idols of gold and silver and bronze and stone and wood, which cannot see or hear or walk, nor did they repent of their murders or their sorceries or their sexual immorality or their thefts. (Revelation 9:20-21).

"The rest of mankind", seems to be an inclusive statement that does not allow for exceptions.

http://www.redmoonrising.com/prewrathview.htm