VISIONS AND DREAMS
Are
Muslim visions and dreams of Jesus from God; or is Satan at work?
This question is not meant to offend, but must be answered in
light of God’s written Word.
First Word
·
Everyone who writes comes into the
conversation with “BS”, a belief
system… Just because of the way I am wired, I WANT to believe that there
are people on other planets, UFO’s, miracles, the supernatural and a fourth
dimension – NYOBS 01.15 – FOURTH DIMENSION.
·
Except for the Pentecostal
denominations,
most denominations today teach that the Gifts ended with the death of
the Disciples of Jesus Christ; but that’s not what the scriptures say… In Rom
11:29 it says; “For the gifts and the calling of God ARE IRREVOCABLE”;
but what about Visions and Dreams? – NYOBS 20.36 – THE HOLY
SPIRIT
·
Does God give people
visions and dreams today OR are they the result of eating a bad pizza the
night before?
·
In many parts of the World where there is little or
no gospel message being presented, many are experiencing Visions and Dreams of
Jesus.
·
Scripture says that God will pour out his
Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old
men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. – Dreams
and Visions are NOT the same thing, but can contain the same images and
symbols. – Many times scripture will refer to a dream as a night
vision.
·
A Dream is a living mental image
that happens when a person is asleep, unconscious; and it is given for
instructional purposes; giving warnings and revelations; revealing things,
provides encouragement and seeks expression during our full awareness. –
When we are asleep, the “Door Keeper” lets stuff in that we exclude when
we are awake. – It confronts us with what’s really going on at the core of our
being. - Dreams remind us of the true issues we are NOT facing, they tell us
how we feel; the way things are, and NOT the way they should be. - It’s the old
man who is full of wisdom to whom a dream is revealed. - He does not have the
strength to put anything into motion, but he has the wisdom.
·
A Vision for the most part happens
when a person is awake. – You could say you are semiconscious; in the form of a
trance; not your natural self. – It’s authenticity and source is determined by
who it is that receives the glory for it. - It’s general purpose is to inspire
the beholder. – A vision can include prophecy; to foretell and forth
tell. – The purpose of a prophetic
vision is not to cause us to anticipate the future, but to recognize
the work of God when it comes to pass. - It’s the young man that is full of
strength and ambition who is able to do something with this vision, but he
lacks the wisdom that the old men can supply.
·
God speaks in one way, and in
two; though man does not perceive it. - In a dream, in a vision
of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their
beds.
·
Without a Vision the people will perish; Visions
provide assurance, encouragement, comfort, direction, instruction, guidance,
exhortation, correction and prophecy, revelation of the plans and purposes of
God - But are ALL “Spiritual” dreams and visions from God? – A vision can be
true or false, it can come from the deceit of your own heart.
·
My hope here is to paint a picture of
what a spiritual dream or vision looks like according to scripture, then you
have a yard stick in which you can measure the validly of someone’s dream or
vision. – Is it from God, Satan or from your own inward desires?
Joel 2:28 – Old men dream dreams – Young men see visions
28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. (ESV)
28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. (ESV)
Proverbs 29:18 – Where there is no vision, the
people perish
18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the law, happy is he. (KJV)
18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the law, happy is he. (KJV)
Job 33:14-16 – God speaks in ways man does not
perceive
14 For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it.
15 In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their beds,
16 then he opens the ears of men and terrifies them with warnings, (ESV)
14 For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it.
15 In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their beds,
16 then he opens the ears of men and terrifies them with warnings, (ESV)
The Source Test
·
The following is a partial list
of Visions and Dreams that were sent by God.
You will notice that most often they contain the same type of message. We are encouraged to use the scriptures to TEST
the authenticity and SOURCE of the vision or dream as being sent from God.
·
Another way to test your experience
is to “Follow the Money’ or to say it another way, “Who does it benefit”; “who
receives the Glory for it. - Does it
benefit your plan and purpose or does it benefit God’s plan and purpose.
VISIONS
Genesis 15:1 – Abraham - ENCOURAGEMENT
1 After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a VISION: “Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” (ESV)
1 After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a VISION: “Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” (ESV)
Genesis 46:2-3 – Jacob – COMFORT - INSTRUCTION
2 And God spoke to Israel (Jacob) in VISIONS of the night and said, “Jacob, Jacob.” And he said, “Here I am.”
3 Then he said, “I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make you into a great nation.
2 And God spoke to Israel (Jacob) in VISIONS of the night and said, “Jacob, Jacob.” And he said, “Here I am.”
3 Then he said, “I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make you into a great nation.
(ESV)
Acts 9:10-12 – Ananias and Paul – DIRECTION - GUIDANCE
10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a VISION, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”
11 And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying,
12 and he (Saul-Paul) has seen in a VISION a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” (ESV)
10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a VISION, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”
11 And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying,
12 and he (Saul-Paul) has seen in a VISION a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” (ESV)
Revelation 4:1 - John - PROPHECY
1 After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” (ESV)
1 After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” (ESV)
Luke 1:11-22 – Zachariah - PROPHECY
11 And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him.
13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. (ESV)
22 And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a VISION in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute.
11 And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him.
13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. (ESV)
22 And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a VISION in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute.
Ezekiel 37:7 – Ezekiel – PROPHECY – Israel reborn
7 So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I prophesied, there was a sound, and behold, a rattling, and the bones came together, bone to its bone. (ESV)
7 So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I prophesied, there was a sound, and behold, a rattling, and the bones came together, bone to its bone. (ESV)
Acts 2:1-4 – 120 people – FILLING OF THE HOLY
SPIRIT
1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place.
2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.
3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them.
4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. (ESV)
1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place.
2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.
3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them.
4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. (ESV)
1 Samuel 3:10-14 – Samuel & Eli - WARNING -
JUDGMENT
10 And the LORD came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.”
11 Then the LORD said to Samuel, “Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle.
12 On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end.
13 And I declare to him that I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them.
14 Therefore I swear to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli’s house shall not be atoned for by sacrifice or offering forever.” (ESV)
10 And the LORD came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.”
11 Then the LORD said to Samuel, “Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle.
12 On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end.
13 And I declare to him that I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them.
14 Therefore I swear to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli’s house shall not be atoned for by sacrifice or offering forever.” (ESV)
DREAMS
Matthew 1:20 – Joseph – COMFORT – GUIDENCE -
PROPHECY
20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a DREAM, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. (ESV)
20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a DREAM, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. (ESV)
Acts 18:9 – Paul – COMFORT - INSTRUCTION
9 And the Lord said to Paul one NIGHT in a VISION, “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, (ESV)
9 And the Lord said to Paul one NIGHT in a VISION, “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, (ESV)
Genesis 28:12-15 - Jacob - PROPHECY – ASSURANCE
12 And he (Jacob) DREAMED, and behold, there was a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven. And behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it!
13 And behold, the LORD stood above it and said, “I am the LORD, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring.
14 Your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south, and in you and your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.
15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
12 And he (Jacob) DREAMED, and behold, there was a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven. And behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it!
13 And behold, the LORD stood above it and said, “I am the LORD, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring.
14 Your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south, and in you and your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.
15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
(ESV)
Job 33:15-18 – Job - WARNING
15 In a dream, in a VISION of the NIGHT, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their beds,
16 then he opens the ears of men and terrifies them with warnings,
17 that he may turn man aside from his deed and conceal pride from a man;
18 he keeps back his soul from the pit, his life from perishing by the sword. (ESV)
15 In a dream, in a VISION of the NIGHT, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their beds,
16 then he opens the ears of men and terrifies them with warnings,
17 that he may turn man aside from his deed and conceal pride from a man;
18 he keeps back his soul from the pit, his life from perishing by the sword. (ESV)
Matthew 2:12 – Wise Men - WARNING
12 And being warned in a DREAM not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way. (ESV)
12 And being warned in a DREAM not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way. (ESV)
Matthew 2:13 – Joseph – WARNING – INSTRUCTION
13 Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a DREAM and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” (ESV)
13 Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a DREAM and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” (ESV)
Matthew 2:19-20 – Joseph – DIRECTION - COMFORT
19 But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a DREAM to Joseph in Egypt,
20 saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.” (ESV)
19 But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a DREAM to Joseph in Egypt,
20 saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.” (ESV)
Matthew 27:19 – Pilate’s Wife – WARNING -
EXHORTATION
19 Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a DREAM.” (ESV)
19 Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a DREAM.” (ESV)
Daniel 2:28-29 – Nebuchadnezzar and Daniel -
PROPHECY
28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and he has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will be in the latter days. Your DREAM and the VISIONS of your head as you lay in bed are these:
29 To you, O king, as you lay in bed came thoughts of what would be after this, and he who reveals mysteries made known to you what is to be. (ESV)
28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and he has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will be in the latter days. Your DREAM and the VISIONS of your head as you lay in bed are these:
29 To you, O king, as you lay in bed came thoughts of what would be after this, and he who reveals mysteries made known to you what is to be. (ESV)
Genesis 20:3-6 – Abimelech – CORRECTION -
EXHORTATION
3 But God came to Abimelech in a DREAM by night and said to him, “Behold, you are a dead man because of the woman whom you have taken, for she is a man’s wife.”
4 Now Abimelech had not approached her. So he said, “Lord, will you kill an innocent people?
5 Did he not himself say to me, ‘She is my sister’? And she herself said, ‘He is my brother.’ In the integrity of my heart and the innocence of my hands I have done this.”
6 Then God said to him in the DREAM, “Yes, I know that you have done this in the integrity of your heart, and it was I who kept you from sinning against me. Therefore I did not let you touch her. (ESV)
3 But God came to Abimelech in a DREAM by night and said to him, “Behold, you are a dead man because of the woman whom you have taken, for she is a man’s wife.”
4 Now Abimelech had not approached her. So he said, “Lord, will you kill an innocent people?
5 Did he not himself say to me, ‘She is my sister’? And she herself said, ‘He is my brother.’ In the integrity of my heart and the innocence of my hands I have done this.”
6 Then God said to him in the DREAM, “Yes, I know that you have done this in the integrity of your heart, and it was I who kept you from sinning against me. Therefore I did not let you touch her. (ESV)
Genesis 31:24 – Laban – EXHORTATION - GUIDANCE
24 But God came to Laban the Aramean in a DREAM by night and said to him, “Be careful not to say anything to Jacob, either good or bad.” (ESV)
24 But God came to Laban the Aramean in a DREAM by night and said to him, “Be careful not to say anything to Jacob, either good or bad.” (ESV)
Genesis 37:5-8 – Joseph - PROPHECY
5 Now Joseph had a DREAM, and when he told it to his brothers they hated him even more.
6 He said to them, “Hear this dream that I have dreamed:
7 Behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and behold, my sheaf arose and stood upright. And behold, your sheaves gathered around it and bowed down to my sheaf.”
8 His brothers said to him, “Are you indeed to reign over us? So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words. (ESV)
5 Now Joseph had a DREAM, and when he told it to his brothers they hated him even more.
6 He said to them, “Hear this dream that I have dreamed:
7 Behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and behold, my sheaf arose and stood upright. And behold, your sheaves gathered around it and bowed down to my sheaf.”
8 His brothers said to him, “Are you indeed to reign over us? So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words. (ESV)
Visions Today
·
There have been many
prophets
since John the Baptist who had special revelations or visitations from God which
ultimately led the people TO FOLLOW THEM instead of following what God has
already written in His Word. – Each claiming that God spoke directly to them. –
Visions can cause Divisions.
·
Joseph Smith had a vision and his followers
became the MORMONS.
·
Charles Taze
Russell had a
vision and his followers became the JEHOVAH WITNESSES
·
Mary Baker Eddy’s followers became the CHRISTIAN
SCIENTIST.
·
Ellen G. White’s followers became the SEVENTH DAY
ADVENTIST.
·
How can one know
or verify if a dream or vision is from God? – Well for one thing, God does
not contradict what He has already given to us in His FINAL written Word; the
Bible. – We must test the vision or dream with God’s Word. – A dream or vision
can be true or false, its source can be generated by the deceit of your own
heart.
2 Timothy 3:16 – All
scripture is GOD BREATHED
16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
(ESV)
Hebrews 4:12 – The Bible
discerns your thoughts and intentions
12 For the word of God (The Bible) is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (ESV)
12 For the word of God (The Bible) is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (ESV)
Ezekiel 13:6-7 - They have False Visions
6 They have seen FALSE VISIONS and lying divinations. They say, ‘Declares the LORD,’ when the LORD has not sent them, and yet they expect him to fulfill their word.
7 Have you not seen a false vision and uttered a lying divination, whenever you have said, ‘Declares the LORD,’ although I have not spoken?” (ESV)
6 They have seen FALSE VISIONS and lying divinations. They say, ‘Declares the LORD,’ when the LORD has not sent them, and yet they expect him to fulfill their word.
7 Have you not seen a false vision and uttered a lying divination, whenever you have said, ‘Declares the LORD,’ although I have not spoken?” (ESV)
Jeremiah 23:26-27 – Lying
Prophets – deceit of their heart
26 How long shall there be lies in the heart of the prophets who prophesy lies, and who prophesy the deceit of their own heart,
27 who think to make my people forget my name by their dreams that they tell one another, even as their fathers forgot my name for Baal? (ESV)
26 How long shall there be lies in the heart of the prophets who prophesy lies, and who prophesy the deceit of their own heart,
27 who think to make my people forget my name by their dreams that they tell one another, even as their fathers forgot my name for Baal? (ESV)
Jeremiah 29:8-9 – God did
not send the lying Dreams
8 For thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let your prophets and your diviners who are among you deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream,
9 for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name; I did not send them, declares the LORD. (ESV)
8 For thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let your prophets and your diviners who are among you deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream,
9 for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name; I did not send them, declares the LORD. (ESV)
Zechariah 10:2 – They tell false dreams – Empty consolation
2 For the household gods utter nonsense, and the diviners see lies; they tell false dreams and give empty consolation. Therefore the people wander like sheep; they are afflicted for lack of a shepherd. (ESV)
2 For the household gods utter nonsense, and the diviners see lies; they tell false dreams and give empty consolation. Therefore the people wander like sheep; they are afflicted for lack of a shepherd. (ESV)
MUSLIM
RABBIT TRAIL
- About a year ago in
my Bible Study group, Majid
my Muslim friend gave his testimony about how he came to embrace the
Christian Faith and he made this STUNNING statement that took me back; “YOU
- I leaned forward in
my chair, the room became silent.
Majid shared that he had been a devout Muslim all of his life, studied
the Qur’an and prayed five times a day, and held to the Five Pillars of Islam,
but still had a yearning in his heart for God. – WHY WAS THAT?
- Majid bought a Bible
and studied in SECRET to see what Christianity was all about.
- What Majid found was
far different than that of the Qur’an and he went back and forth trying to
grasp the simplicity of Christianity and its teaching to love
your enemies.
- At some point Majid
came to believe that the Bible held the MOST TRUTH and knowing the cost, he gave his heart to
Jesus Christ. - For the Muslim to
convert to Christianity was considered blasphemy and he was worse than an
INFINDEL and the penalty was DEATH.
- Majid made a PUBLIC
PROFESSION of his faith and took a Christian wife. - His family disowned him and he
received death threats. What he had
to give up becoming a Christian made me sit back in my chair STUNNED; I gave up nothing; obviously
this is a BIG DEAL.
- Think about the
family you were born into – If your family believes in a god, you would
believe in the same god as they did. - It was GOD that PUT THE DESIRE in
Majid’s heart; and he accepted knowing the cost could be his very own
life. – What an INCREDABLE DESIRE for God. – NYOBS
29.02 – CASE FOR CHRISTIANITY
Praise God for the Muslims
that are believing in Jesus.
Theology SPIN
·
This is going to mess with
your theology somewhat because you did not read the Bible for yourself; this will be
contrary to what you have always heard.
·
In the Book of Joel the SUBJECT seems to be about
an outpouring of Visions and Dreams, BUT the major theme of Joel is
about “THE GREAT AND TERRIBLE DAY OF
THE LORD”; so the actual SUBJECT is the end times and is talking
about the time at the end of the Seven
Year Tribulation period and the destruction of Russia; then AFTER THAT,
the visions and dreams will be poured out upon men.
·
This prophecy is addressing Israel, not
the churches. - Peter explained on the Day
of Pentecost, that what they were witnessing was the same as would be
witnessed in the Millennium with the outpouring AGAIN of the HOLY SPIRIT
as Joel prophesized.
·
With that said, you cannot apply this
prophecy of the outpouring of Visions and Dreams until after the
Tribulation period. – It’s in the Book
-
·
Paul’s letters to the
Churches
were written to instruct the churches on doctrine and their practice; he said that
scripture is God breathed and is profitable for teaching, for reproof,
for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of
God may be complete; equipped for every good work. – Paul NEVER mentions
Dreams or Visions as if they had ceased to exist.
·
The last book of Prophecy is the book of Revelation
and now prophecy has been closed.
There may be given more ENLIGHTENMENT of an existing prophecy,
but there is no new revelations to be given to us. - When the perfect
comes; (The word of God; the Bible), prophecy fades away. (1 Corinthians 13:8-10)
(The “Perfect” in this scripture is not Jesus as some have postulated.)
·
Long ago, at many times and in
many ways God spoke to our fathers through the prophets through Visions,
Dreams, Visitations, Laws and Ceremonies, but in these last days He has spoken
to us through his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things.
·
Outside of the Gospels and
Acts
there is no example, NOT ONE, of a vision or dream being directed toward
man. – If there were, God would have given us a way to authenticate and verify
them as He has done with His Prophets. - Today it’s the Holy Spirit in a man
that now guides and directs his new nature.
·
People who do not believe
in God
can have Visions and Dreams without there being any reference to God at all; so
having a vision or dream is not a spiritual indicator. - If you have questions
about a Vision or Dream, let the word of God; The Bible settle the issue.
Joel 2:31 – AFTER - The
Great and Terrible day of the Lord
31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before THE GREAT AND THE TERRIBLE DAY OF THE LORD come. (KJV)
31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before THE GREAT AND THE TERRIBLE DAY OF THE LORD come. (KJV)
Joel 2:20 – Russia destroyed during the last of
the Tribulations
20 “I will remove the northerner (RUSSIA) far from you, and drive him into a parched and desolate land, his vanguard into the eastern sea, and his rear guard into the western sea; the stench and foul smell of him will rise, for he has done great things. (ESV)
20 “I will remove the northerner (RUSSIA) far from you, and drive him into a parched and desolate land, his vanguard into the eastern sea, and his rear guard into the western sea; the stench and foul smell of him will rise, for he has done great things. (ESV)
Acts 2:14-18 – Holy Spirit will be poured out in
the last days
14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words.
15 For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel:
17 And IN THE LAST DAYS it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams;
18 even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will POUR OUT MY SPIRIT, and they shall prophesy.
14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words.
15 For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel:
17 And IN THE LAST DAYS it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams;
18 even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will POUR OUT MY SPIRIT, and they shall prophesy.
(ESV)
Joel 2:28 – Old men dream dreams – Young men see visions
28 And it shall come to pass AFTERWARD, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. (ESV)
28 And it shall come to pass AFTERWARD, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. (ESV)
2 Timothy 3:16-17 – Scripture is used to equip and
train
16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (ESV)
16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (ESV)
1 Corinthians 13:8-10 – Prophecy ceases with the Perfect
Bible
8 Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.
9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part,
10 but when the perfect comes (Completed Word; the Bible), the partial (visions and dreams) will pass away.
8 Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.
9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part,
10 but when the perfect comes (Completed Word; the Bible), the partial (visions and dreams) will pass away.
(ESV)
Hebrews 1:1-2 – God now speaks through His Son
1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets,
2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. (ESV)
1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets,
2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. (ESV)
ISA Jesus Visions
·
There has been an
explosion
of “On Line’ Muslim testimonies all over the world reporting the
supernatural visions and dreams of ISA
or Jesus and immediately they know who He is, and JOY, LOVE and PEACE
floods over them and they accept Christianity. – The first thing that comes to
my mind is “PRAISE GOD”. – But with second thoughts I wonder if this is
from God or has Satan figured out another way to subvert the Gospel of Jesus
Christ. – The question is; are they worshiping the Jesus of their Vision
or the Jesus of the Bible.
·
In Islam, Isa ibn Maryam translates
literally “Jesus, Son of Mary”, or Jesus. - He is understood to be the prophet and
messenger of Allah (God) who was sent to guide the Children
of Israel into a “NEW” revelation. Side
Note: The Qur’an says that Jesus will return and
punish the Jews and Christians for not accepting Muhammad. - Jesus will judge by the Law of the Qur’an,
not by the Law of the Gospel. – NYOBS 46.17 – QUR’AN
ON JESUS
·
Muslims are called to believe on and accept ISA as God; worthy of worship
and Praise. –The vision or dream includes a Bible verse or two, some
encouragement, instruction, prophecies and information not found in the Bible. -
At this point we are reminded that the Bible is the FINISHED work of God. –
There are NO NEW REVELATIONS, just more enlightenment.
·
Can a Sovereign God use a vision or dream of
Jesus to convict Muslims or anybody else for that matter? – The obvious answer
is YES… but where is it
taught in scripture that He will do that and where are the examples? – Except
for Paul/Saul on the road to Damascus, there is no Biblical record of Jesus
appearing to anyone after His ascension to Heaven… Paul only saw a light and only
heard a voice; he did not see Jesus.
·
Whose job is it to bring
the gospel message to the World? – Scripture says it’s the followers; the
disciples of Jesus Christ.
·
Whose job is it to convict
the world of Sin?
– Jesus said it was the work of the Holy Spirit to convict the world of
Sin. – Can extra-biblical experiences be generated from something besides the
Holy Spirit?
·
In all the reports of
seeing ISA or Jesus there is an absence of a call to repentance and forgiveness of
sin, no mention of a need for salvation nor
praising God’s attributes. – When the
expectation of additional visitations vanishes, they are met with
inevitable confusion and disillusionment when their expectations are not met.
·
Jesus warned that many will come and
say “I am the Christ and will lead many astray”. – It never occurred to me
that this would include Visions and Dreams. Paul said, “If we or an angel from heaven
should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you,
let him be accursed”.
·
Do the reports of Muslims having subjective
mystical encounters of Jesus through Visions and Dreams fit the pattern of
salvation as recorded in scripture? – Is this method consistent with the
communication with Jesus while He was on earth? – We are told to TEST
everything though examining the scriptures daily and to hold fast to what is true.
Mark 16:15 – The Great Commission – Go into the
world & preach
15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to the whole creation.
15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to the whole creation.
(ASV)
Romans 10:13-15 – The Gospel is given by those
that are sent
13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
14 How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?
15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” (ESV)
13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
14 How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?
15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” (ESV)
1 Corinthians 1:21 – What is preached saves those
that believe
21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.
21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.
(ESV)
Galatians 1:8 – A different Gospel – Let him be
accursed
8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. (ESV)
8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. (ESV)
John 16:7-15 – The Holy Spirit will convict the
world of sin
7 Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.
8 And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment:
9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me;
10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer;
11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
12 I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.
13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.
14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
15 All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
7 Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.
8 And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment:
9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me;
10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer;
11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
12 I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.
13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.
14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
15 All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
(ESV)
Matthew 24:4-5 – Many appearances saying I am the
Christ
4 And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray.
5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray.
4 And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray.
5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray.
(ESV)
2 Corinthians 11:4 – Proclaiming A DIFFERENT JESUS
4 For if someone comes and proclaims
another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different
spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the
one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough.
(ESV)
1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 – Test everything – Hold
fast to good
20 Do not despise prophecies,
21 but TEST EVERYTHING; hold fast what is good.
20 Do not despise prophecies,
21 but TEST EVERYTHING; hold fast what is good.
(ESV)
Acts 17:11 - Examine
the Scriptures daily
11 Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, EXAMINING the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.
11 Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, EXAMINING the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.
(ESV)
Philippians 1:15-18 – Christ is proclaimed –
Praise God Anyway
15 Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will.
16 The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.
17 The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment.
18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, CHRIST IS PROCLAIMED, AND IN THAT I REJOICE.
15 Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will.
16 The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.
17 The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment.
18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, CHRIST IS PROCLAIMED, AND IN THAT I REJOICE.
(ESV)
Dreams - Peace or Fear
·
Note: most Muslims report that
when they have a spiritual encounter they experience love and a warm peace
all over their body, however most encounters of a vision in the Bible resulted
in the words of ‘FEAR NOT”, possibly because it was a frightening experience.
·
Listen to what Job said; “Amid disquieting dreams
in the night, when deep sleep falls on people, FEAR and TREMBLING seized
me and made all my BONES SHAKE. -
A spirit glided past my face, and the hair on my body STOOD ON END. - It
stopped, but I could not tell what it was. A form stood before my eyes, and I
heard a hushed voice: Job 4:13-16 (NIV2011)
- Angels – Based on
scripture, it would seem that the Angels were much taller than the average
Israelite; maybe as tall as nine to thirteen feet in their natural
form, but could appear with the height of a common man. - Cherubim’s have four wings, one
set is 15 feet, tip to tip spread out. - So if you saw something
nine feet tall with wings fifteen feel wide, it would probably scare the
tatter tots out of you, wouldn’t it! - NYOBS
34.17 ANGELS – NYOBS 22.30 GIANTS
·
NT Scripture records that Cornelius
who feared God and prayed continually received a vision of an Angel of God and he
stared at the angel with TERROR; he was NOT flooded with joy, peace and an
overwhelming sense of Love. – Most encounters with Visions and Dreams brought forth
a Color Change, Speechlessness, Anxiousness, Troubled,
Fear, Terror, Trembling, Weakness and Shortness
of Breath and Collapsing. – The Pentecostals would say they were
“SLAIN IN THE SPIRIT”; fell to the ground under the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Hagar, the Mother of
Ishmael
(son of Abraham) whose lineage gave
us Mohammad and Islam was frightened by her vision, so The Muslim EXPERIENCE
of seeing Jesus is pretty much contrary to scripture, wouldn’t you say?
Luke 1:12 - Fear fell
upon him
12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. (ESV)
12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. (ESV)
Genesis 21:17 – Hagar – Vision of an Angel – Fear
not
17 And God heard the voice of the boy, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What troubles you, Hagar? FEAR NOT, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is. (ESV)
17 And God heard the voice of the boy, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What troubles you, Hagar? FEAR NOT, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is. (ESV)
Acts 27:23-24 – Paul – Vision of an Angel – Fear
not
23 For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve,
24 Saying, FEAR NOT, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.
23 For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve,
24 Saying, FEAR NOT, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.
(KJV)
Luke 2:8-10 Shepherds – Vision of Angels – Fear
not
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, FEAR NOT: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. (KJV)
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, FEAR NOT: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. (KJV)
Daniel 5:9 – Became alarmed – Color changed
9 Then King Belshazzar was greatly alarmed, and his color changed, and his lords were perplexed. (ESV)
9 Then King Belshazzar was greatly alarmed, and his color changed, and his lords were perplexed. (ESV)
Luke 1:12 - Troubled
12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. (ESV)
12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. (ESV)
Daniel 7:15 – Became anxious - Alarmed
15 As for me, Daniel, my spirit within me was anxious, and the visions of my head alarmed me. (ESV)
15 As for me, Daniel, my spirit within me was anxious, and the visions of my head alarmed me. (ESV)
Daniel 7:28 – Became alarmed – Color changed
28 Here is the end of the matter. As for me, Daniel, my thoughts greatly alarmed me, and my color changed, but I kept the matter in my heart.” (ESV)
28 Here is the end of the matter. As for me, Daniel, my thoughts greatly alarmed me, and my color changed, but I kept the matter in my heart.” (ESV)
Daniel 10:15-17 – Became speechless
15 When he had spoken to me according to these words, I turned my face toward the ground and was mute.
15 When he had spoken to me according to these words, I turned my face toward the ground and was mute.
(ESV)
Acts 10:1-5 – Cornelius – Terrified
1 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort,
2 a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God.
3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in A VISION an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.”
4 And he stared at him in TERROR and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God.
5 And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. (ESV)
1 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort,
2 a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God.
3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in A VISION an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.”
4 And he stared at him in TERROR and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God.
5 And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. (ESV)
Daniel 10:15-17 - Strength
left
16 And behold, one in the likeness of the children of man touched my lips. Then I opened my mouth and spoke. I said to him who stood before me, “O my lord, by reason of the vision pains have come upon me, and I retain no strength. (ESV)
16 And behold, one in the likeness of the children of man touched my lips. Then I opened my mouth and spoke. I said to him who stood before me, “O my lord, by reason of the vision pains have come upon me, and I retain no strength. (ESV)
Daniel 10:8-9 – Strength left - Fell face down
8 So I was left alone and saw this great VISION, and no strength was left in me. My radiant appearance was fearfully changed, and I retained no strength.
9 Then I heard the sound of his words, and as I heard the sound of his words, I fell on my face in deep sleep with my face to the ground.
8 So I was left alone and saw this great VISION, and no strength was left in me. My radiant appearance was fearfully changed, and I retained no strength.
9 Then I heard the sound of his words, and as I heard the sound of his words, I fell on my face in deep sleep with my face to the ground.
Daniel 5:6 – Became weak, legs trembled and shook
6 Then the king’s color changed, and his thoughts alarmed him; his limbs gave way, and his knees knocked together.
6 Then the king’s color changed, and his thoughts alarmed him; his limbs gave way, and his knees knocked together.
(ESV)
Daniel 10:17 – Became Hard to breathe
17 How can my lord’s servant talk with my lord? For now no strength remains in me, and no breath is left in me.” (ESV)
17 How can my lord’s servant talk with my lord? For now no strength remains in me, and no breath is left in me.” (ESV)
Revelation 1:17 John – Vision of Jesus – Fell to
the ground
17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “FEAR NOT, I am the first and the last, (ESV)
17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “FEAR NOT, I am the first and the last, (ESV)
Ezekiel 3:23 -
Fell on my face
23 So I arose and went out into the valley, and behold, the glory of the LORD stood there, like the glory that I had seen by the Chebar canal, and I fell on my face. (ESV)
23 So I arose and went out into the valley, and behold, the glory of the LORD stood there, like the glory that I had seen by the Chebar canal, and I fell on my face. (ESV)
Ezekiel 43:3 - Fell on my
face
3 And the vision I saw was just like the VISION that I had seen when he came to destroy the city, and just like the vision that I had seen by the Chebar canal. And I fell on my face. (ESV)
3 And the vision I saw was just like the VISION that I had seen when he came to destroy the city, and just like the vision that I had seen by the Chebar canal. And I fell on my face. (ESV)
Last Thoughts
·
During Old Testament times men did not have a copy
of God’s WORD and received God’s instructions through the preaching and
writings of the prophets via their dreams, visions, symbols and experiences. –
God never did anything without revealing it to His Prophets. – Visions and
Dreams in the Old Testament were almost always prophetic.
·
During New Testament times God sent his WORD in
the flesh; His Son Jesus the Christ, who lived among men, guiding their
paths.
·
In no time in the PAST did men have the
completed final Word of God to lead them. Today we have God’s WORD in the Bible
guiding us through the Holy Spirit, directing our path.
·
Visions, Dreams,
Premonitions & Paranormal Activity can come from many sources; some are from God,
Some are from Satan and most are probably from what’s in a man’s
heart. - Random occurrences of confused dreams have no true meaning or
purpose and should be taken for just what they are; much business with a
fools voice. – It’s in the Book. –
Ultimately if what you saw puts your reliance on something or someone other
than Jesus Christ or conflicts with the Bible; it did not come from God. –
Satan is the author of confusion. – God does not contradict Himself.
·
Through Visions and Dreams God OPENS the eyes and
the heart of man, GRANTS him the faith to believe, then DRAWS him unto Himself;
and TEACHES him and thus BEGINS his search for the fullness of the Gospel
message of Jesus Christ. – In no way do visions and dreams ADD to the Word of God,
nor are they given equal or greater authority than the finished cannon; our
Bible which is the ultimate authority.
·
For the most part,
scripture
supports that in this age, God speaks primarily to men through the HOLY
SPIRIT who illuminates God’s finished work; THE BIBLE.
·
However, God is Sovereign
and is not limited by our inability or our disobedience in sharing
the Gospel. He can use any means He
chooses; in Revelation we see in the “End Times”, He uses an Angel to proclaim
the Gospel of Jesus Christ. (However, Notice it is an
angel and not Jesus Christ Himself).
·
We do not have to see
Jesus to believe,
Jesus said; “Blessed
are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
·
If you have had a vision, before you ascribe it to
God, you should prayerfully seek God’s will in how you should respond to the
vision; ask and He will generously give you wisdom.
Hebrews 1:1-2 – God spoke to men in divers manners
1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; (KJV)
1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; (KJV)
2 Peter 1:21 – Prophets
spoke - guided by the Holy Spirit
21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (KJV)
21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (KJV)
Amos 3:7 – God reveals what He is doing to His
prophets
7 For the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets. (ESV)
7 For the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets. (ESV)
John 1: 14-16 - The Word of God, Jesus, now dwells
with us
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.
16 And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. (KJV)
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.
16 And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. (KJV)
Acts 16:14 – God OPENS men’s heart
14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. (ESV)
14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. (ESV)
John 6:65 – God GRANTS men Faith to receive Him.
65 And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.” (ESV)
65 And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.” (ESV)
John 6:44– God DRAWS men unto Him
44 No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. (ESV)
44 No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. (ESV)
John 6:45 – God TEACHES men
45 It is written in the Prophets, ‘And they will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me
45 It is written in the Prophets, ‘And they will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me
Revelation 14:6-7 – Angel proclaims Gospel in the
END TIMES.
6 Then 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.
7 And 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.” (ESV)
6 Then 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.
7 And 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.” (ESV)
John 20:29 – Blessed are those who have not seen
but believe
29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (ESV)
29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (ESV)
James 1:5 – Ask God for wisdom concerning your
Vision or Dream
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. (ESV)
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. (ESV)
1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is not the author
of confusion
33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. (NKJV)
33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. (NKJV)
Ecclesiastes 5:3 - Dream are
with much business & a fool’s voice
3 For a dream comes with much business, and a fool’s voice with many words. (ESV)
3 For a dream comes with much business, and a fool’s voice with many words. (ESV)
In the multitude of counselors,
there is wisdom.
Proverbs 11:14
I
am grateful to those that went before me providing concepts, ideas, historical
information,
and scripture verses. Because of them I
can stand on their shoulders
and
see further that I otherwise ever could have.
Antiquity of the Jews – Flavius Josephus Matthias
Apocrypha - Goodspeed
Bible Almanac; The – Packer-Tenney-White
Bible Dictionary – Harper and Row
English Standard Version
Bible – ESV
Expositor’s Bible
Commentary – Frank E. Gaebelein
Illustrated Bible
Dictionary – Nelson’s
Illustrated Bible
Dictionary; The – Tyndale
King James Version Bible –
KJV
Muslims – Crosswalk.com
Muslims – Questions.org
Muslim Dreams of Jesus – John Piper
Mysteries of the Bible –
Readers Digest
Nave’s Topical Bible - Zondervan
New International Dictionary
of the Bible; The – Douglas - Tenney
New International Version
Bible – NIV
Thru the Bible – J. Vernon McGee
Who’s Who in the Bible – Paul D. Gardner
Wikipedia –
Windows of the soul – Paul Meier – Robert Wise
Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible; The – Tenney
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