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The Paradox of Innocence

In the heart of a quaint, untouched town named Serenity, lived a young woman, Hope. Her life was simple, her dreams boundless. Yet, she yearned for an understanding of the world beyond her town boundaries. Her compelling curiosity overwhelmed her.

HOPE IN WONDERLANDS

One day, Hope embarked on a journey into the unknown, armed with nothing but her courage and an insatiable curiosity. Her first encounter was with the city of Laodicea, the city of opulence, a place where material wealth was the only measure of success. The city’s inhabitants were consumed by greed, their moral compass lost in the pursuit of shadowed wealth. Hope, however, remained unswayed by the glittering allure of riches. She recognized the hollowness that lay beneath the city’s golden veneer and decided to move forward. Her reluctance remained in the recesses of her mind.

Next, she arrived at Vainly Vogt, a city obsessed with appearances. Here, people were judged solely on their physical attributes, and the concept of inner beauty was alien. Its citizens were skin-deep in character and insight. Hope, with her simple attire and unadorned beauty, was an anomaly. She faced ridicule and scorn for her simplicity, but she held her head high, refusing to conform to the city’s shallow standards.

Her journey then led her to Pergamum, a city of chaos and anarchy, where power was the ultimate goal, and the weak were trampled upon. She discovered darkness around every street corner. Upon turning onto a street filled with shadows, she witnessed the masses burning Bibles in the street. Images of evil seemed to be prevalent in a ghostly fashion. Hope witnessed the brutality and ruthlessness of unchecked power. But instead of succumbing to fear, she stood up for the oppressed, her spirit unbroken.

Throughout her journey, Hope encountered various forms of moral corruption and societal decadence. Yet, she remained steadfast, her values uncorrupted. This confirmed that there was something greater in her than there was in these dark cities. She realized that these cities, with their depraved cultures, reflected the darker aspects of the fallen human nature.

Hope’s journey is an allegory of the struggle that each of our youth faces. It serves as a reminder that while we may encounter depravity and corruption in various forms, it is the greater that is within us, Jesus, and the integrity of Truth that guide us. Like Hope, we must strive to remain uncorrupted, standing tall amidst the chaos by releasing the inner Life of Christ.

In the end, Hope returned to Serenity, not as the naive girl who had left but as a wise Biblical woman. She brought back tales of her journey, lessons she had learned, and a resolve to nurture her town into a place that embodied the virtues of Jesus that she held dear.

This allegorical essay serves as a metaphorical exploration of the challenges faced by individuals in contemporary postmodern society. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining TRUTH in a culturally depraved society and holding to its values and integrity in the face of adversity in a fallen world. It also highlights the power of Jesus Christ, the resilience of the indwelling Life, and human weakness to slip into the slippery slope of a preeminent cultural dark world.

The IM Culture Video series, “Cultural Darkness,” is an extension of the End Times Chronicles’ essay series posted on Tuesdays. Our purpose is to reveal the challenges believers face in globally depraved movements that rise against indwelt Christianity.

The End Times Chronicles hosts the IM Culture Video Series, a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

“The Firing Squad,” is a must see Christian-based movie to be released August 2024, was directed by Timothy A. Chey and produced by Epoch Studios. The film is inspired by the true story of three Christians who faced execution by firing squad in a third-world country. Their courage and Christian faith in the days leading up to the execution inspired the entire prison camp and result in a stunning conclusion. The cast includes actors such as James Barrington, Kevin Sorbo, and Cuba Gooding Jr.. The movie aims to touch hearts and explore redemption in Christ even in the face of daunting challenges.

-DR. STEPHEN PHINNEY

How many truly believe in transformation through faith? 'The Firing Squad' is a true story of redemption, turning drug dealers into devout Christians. This powerful film can change lives. This powerful film can save people in the power and name of Jesus Christ.

The mission of this movie is to inspire and support individuals in their journey from adversity to redemption, fostering an environment of hope, healing, and growth, where every story of darkness can be rewritten into a narrative of the light of Jesus and positive change.

We envision a world where every individual finds the strength to emerge from darkness into light, embracing renewal and positive transformation as a path to true fulfillment - from darkness into His Light: The Journey of New Life.

* A Profound Transformation: In the darkest of hours, two American drug dealers underwent a spiritual metamorphosis, their hearts touched and forever changed by the profound embrace of Christianity, moments before facing their own execution. 

* An Unforgettable Spiritual Awakening: Their journey of redemption didn't stop at personal salvation; it ignited a spiritual revolution within the prison camp, guiding the souls of the most hardened criminals toward the loving embrace of Christ. 

* A Heart-Wrenching Finale: As the film concludes and the credits begin to cascade down the screen, brace yourself for a profoundly stirring finale. This unexpected conclusion is bound to elicit a torrent of tears, leaving viewers in a state of profound emotional upheaval. 

* Cuba Gooding, Jr.'s Life-Altering Experience: For acclaimed actor Cuba Gooding, Jr., this role wasn't just another character; it was a life-altering experience that led him on a journey to discover the profound solace of Christianity. 

* A Faithful Production Team: With the majority of the production team members and cast sharing their Christian faith, this film stands as a testament to the transformative power of belief and the resounding echoes of salvation. 

* Provoking Deep Reflection: Beyond mere entertainment, this film serves as a catalyst for introspection, compelling audiences to contemplate life's profound questions and prompting them to explore the true meaning of existence itself.

Lion of Judah Films & The End Times Chronicles is passionate about seeing the Gospel of Jesus Christ on the big screen.

“As a producer, I believe that Christ-centered movies hold immense significance in today’s world. These films serve as more than mere entertainment; they become vessels of hope, inspiration, and transformation in and through the Life of Jesus Christ.

In a culture often inundated with depraved secular narratives, Christ-centered movies provide a beacon of light, reminding us of eternal indwelling truths, compassion, and the redemptive power of Christ living within the believer. Through compelling storytelling, these films touch hearts, challenge perspectives, and draw audiences closer to the discovery of God through Jesus. As a producer, I am committed to creating & promoting cinematic experiences that not only entertain but also uplift souls, leaving a lasting impact on Christ, Culture & Creator. Consider helping us advance the mission of the IM Video Podcast”

EPOCH TIMES CONTRIBUTOR | DR. STEPHEN PHINNEY 

The End Times Chronicles hosts the IM Video Podcast, a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

FORWARD "THE RESURRECTION"

IOM America, in partnership with Mel Gibson Productions, has released our 2024 resurrection short film, which has received 20K views. Our passion in Christ is to have our viewers/readers advance the real message of our Savior's Resurrection Day. After watching, please forward the media to family, friends, and strangers - the “share” link is at the bottom of this post. We thank you for helping!

RESURRECTION EQUALS HIS INDWELLING

It is estimated that less than 1% of humanity has NOT heard of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Knowing of His resurrection does little for the power contained within His sacrifice on the Roman Cross.

Jesus’s resurrection is the central event in indwelling Christian theology—the cornerstone of new life—is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. These profound life-changing moments, recorded in the New Testament, hold immense significance for believers worldwide. However, few understand the authentic “why” and the results of Jesus’s resurrection in daily living.

Satan has made this memorial celebration about Easter Bunnies, eggs, roasted stuck pigs, fancy dresses, and a host of other meaningless idol imagery. God’s enemy has worked relentlessly for generations to delude the authentic message of His resurrection - to provide indwelling LIFE for all who receive the Holy Spirit of promise.

I despise Easter more than words can express. The Paganism that Satan has weaved into this day is beyond abominable to the Lord. I liken it to dressing Jesus in an Easter bunny costume on His most Holy day of remembrance. It sickens me. I find nothing cute about the sacrifice our Husband, Savior, and Son of God made and paid to provide indwelling salvation to all those in want.

The Death of Jesus Christ

Here are the Triune elements of the context of the “why.”

* Jesus, the Son of God, was mandated by His Father to come to Earth as the promised Messiah, live a perfect life, be hated, tortured, and die for the sins of humanity.

* His teachings were despised and renounced by the religious norms - past, present, and future. While His death was predicted in the Old Testament, even His own people betrayed and killed Him by placing Him on the Cross - all but one of His disciples betrayed Him in the end.

* However, during the three and a half years of His ministry, opposition grew, and Jewish and Gentile religious leaders conspired against Him. Being threatened by His words and life, refusing to be fronted with their sins, Jesus was executed in the most deplorable method known in His day - crucifixion.

The Seven Deplorable Elements of Crucifixion

* Arrested and Tortured: On the day before the Jew’s Sabbath, their day of rest, Jesus was arrested, tortured, tried, and sentenced to death. Jesus was subjected to a flogging with a nine-tailed whip, each strap tipped with metal and bone fragments. The executioner lashed the whip into Jesus’ back, buttocks, and legs, causing excruciating pain - even after the victim passed out.

* He Was Stripped of Dignity: He was crucified on a hill called Golgotha (Calvary) alongside two criminals. Upon reaching the destination of Calvary, Jesus was stripped of His garments - made naked before the world. Roman crucifixion aimed for maximum humiliation and degradation. The condemned were left naked, devoid of any dignity or modesty.

* The Nailing to the Cross: Contrary to artistic depictions, Jesus was not given a loin cloth. Roman crucifixion was intentionally gruesome and humiliating. Nails were driven through His hands and feet, securing Him to the wooden cross. The pain would have been unimaginable as nerves and bones were pierced, while blood would slowly drain from His body.

* Suffocation and Agony: Hanging on the cross, Jesus struggled to breathe. The weight of His body pulled down on the nails, causing immense pressure on His chest. To inhale, He had to push up against the nails, scraping His raw back against the rough wood, while nerve pain would increase. Every breath was a torment, every movement an ordeal of slow death.

* The Sky Darkened: At the ninth hour, Jesus cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). Since Jesus was required to become sin, His Father forsook Him, leaving Him isolated and alone until the moment of resurrection.

* The Mockery and Abuse: Soldiers and observers mocked Jesus, placing a crown of thorns on His head and pounding it into his skull. They spat upon Him, struck Him repeatedly, and taunted Him. The pain from the thorns and the blows intensified His suffering. The Jewish and Gentile crowd jeered, oblivious to the Divine and Holy sacrifice the God of the universe and beyond is making on behalf of their sins.

* The Agonizing Hours: Jesus hung on the cross for hours. His body weakened, blood loss severe, and dehydration unbearable. The sun beat down mercilessly, exacerbating His torment. Yet, in His agony, He uttered words that would shake the earth below Him - “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,” a love that would soon resonate through the ages.

Jesus’ death fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies that Isaiah and others referenced (Isaiah 53:5). His sacrifice provided redemption and reconciliation - opening a doorway to full restoration with God to those in want. The horrid day of the Cross would remain active for generations to come. As the Jewish law required a sacrificial flawless lamb, Jesus, Yesuah, became that LAMB and paid that price.

The curtain in the temple tore from top to bottom, symbolizing direct access to God from the day of Yesuah’s death forward (Matthew 27:51).

The Burial of Jesus Christ became one of the most infamous stories of world history. Joseph of Arimathea, a secret disciple, requested Jesus’ body for burial. Nicodemus, another Pharisee, assisted in the process.

They wrapped Jesus’ body in linen and placed it in a new tomb hewed from a rock cliff. A large stone sealed the entrance, guarded by Roman soldiers. However, this did not stop the greatest miracle of the ages - the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus’ burial fulfilled the Scriptures (Isaiah 53:9). His resting place became a symbol of redemptive power—a seed of life birthing from the domain of darkness into the Kingdom of Light.

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ shocked the world. On the third day, the day after the Jewish day of rest, the first day of the week for Jews to return to their labors, the women went to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body to camouflage the stench of death. To their astonishment, they found the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. Yesuah was nowhere to be found.

As the women stood in disbelief, angels appeared, proclaiming, “He is not here; He has risen!” (Matthew 28:6).

Jesus had conquered death, emerging from the grave. The resurrection validated Jesus’ claims of Divinity, new Life, and redemption forevermore. Yesuah defeated sin, death, and Satan. He now can offer indwelling eternal life to all who believe (John 11:25).

The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ are core doctrines of authentic indwelling Christianity. They represent God’s love, grace, and victory over darkness. BUT KNOW THIS: it is the Resurrection of Jesus that provides the pathway to indwelling salvation by the means of accepting the Holy Spirit, the Life of Christ, into the believer’s mortal being.

As uninformed and ignorant believers continue to celebrate Easter as an exaggerated pagan Christian holiday—the Holy facts remain in play, the glorious triumph of life over death—knowing that through Christ, we too can experience resurrection and eternal fellowship with our Creator and Husband by receiving His Spirit within our mortal souls. This is why our ministry calls it Indwelling Salvation.

At this point, you should understand why I abhor the Easter Bunny? In regards to the paganism that accompanies “Easter,” I say, Satan, get yet behind me!

Review what authentic indwelling salvation looks like. Read the sample salvation prayer if you are under conviction BY the Holy Spirit to receive salvation. HERE

The End Times Chronicles hosts the IM Video Podcast, a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Easter is a day honored by nearly all of contemporary Christianity and is used to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The holiday often involves a church service at sunrise, a feast that includes an “Easter Ham,” decorated eggs, and stories about rabbits. As most of us know, the best part about Easter is chocolate.

Those who love Truth learn to ask questions, and many questions must be asked regarding the holiday of Easter.

Is it truly the day when Jesus arose from the dead? Where did all of the strange customs come from, which have nothing to do with the resurrection of our Savior?

This article & docudrama aims to help answer those questions and help those seeking Truth.

We must first understand that professing indwelt Christians were not the only ones who celebrated a festival called “Easter.”

Let’s Get To The Facts:

The organic origins of Easter reveal some horrific facts that flow directly from ancient paganism. Shortly after the flood, Nimrod reestablished idolatry on the earth. After his death, Nimrod was promoted to the original sun god by his mother/wife. Remembering that Nimrod was the grandson of the cursed son of Noah, Ham. The curse didn’t take long to show its ugly head.

Nimrod’s widow, Semiramis, was called the “queen of heaven.” Various cultures continued the idolatry of these original pagans under different names. To the Egyptians, Semiramis was Isis, presently known as the Islamic militant god. To the Babylonians, she was Beltis, counsel to the Babylonian god, Bel. To the Canaanites, she was Astarte. The Assyrians called her Ishtar.

“Ishtar,” which is pronounced “Easter,” was a day that commemorated the resurrection of one of the gods that they called “Tammuz,” who was believed to be the only begotten son of the moon goddess and the sun god. But in reality, “Tammuz” was the illegitimate son of Semiramis by way of adultery.

While Semiramis was alive, she demanded that her son/husband dedicate one day out of a year to require all the workers of the tower of Babel to stop working and worship a statue of herself at the tower’s base. According to Babylonian history, Ishtar, Easter, found great delight in being worshiped as the “queen of heaven” – a goddess of sorts.

The worship of Easter as a goddess involved occult fertility practices. These demonic rituals were practiced even by the Israelites when in apostasy. The God of the Hebrews warned and denounced any Israelite involvement in these pagan celebrations. The God of Israel considered them idolatry and worshiping God’s greatest enemy, Satan.

“Do you not see what they are doing in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem? “The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead dough to make cakes for the queen of heaven; and they pour out drink offerings to other gods in order to spite Me.” (Jeremiah 7:17-18)

While the Israelites forgot the basics of their history, the women were easily seduced by the ideology of goddesses. The same madness method Satan used on Eve to get to Adam was the precise method he used to destroy the men of Israel.

And He said to me, “Yet you will see still greater abominations which they are committing.” Then He brought me to the entrance of the gate of the LORD’S house which was toward the north; and behold, women were sitting there weeping for Tammuz.” (Ezekiel 8:13-14)

Few historians refute that Ishtar/Easter became the most powerful Queen of ancient Babylon. Queen Easter also proclaimed that Baal (Satan) would be present on earth as a flame, whether a candle or lamp, when used in worship. Because she set herself up as a goddess for Satan, she is considered in history as the great w***e of the Old Testament, later referenced in Revelation’s book. Furthermore, she claimed that she was immaculately conceived.

Stay with me; it even gets weirder.

She taught that the moon was a goddess that went through a 28-day cycle and ovulated when full. She further claimed that she came down from the moon in a giant moon egg that fell into the Euphrates River, later referenced as an Ishtar/Easter egg. Ishtar/Easter soon became pregnant, further claiming that the sun god Baal's rays (Satan's) caused her to conceive. Now the weird part, her son was named Tammuz.

The connection to our Easter rabbit. Tammuz was noted to be especially fond of rabbits, which became sacred in the ancient religion and empire of Babylon. The day came when a wild pig killed Tammuz. Queen Ishtar told the people that Tammuz ascended to his father, Baal (Satan), and that the two demanded to be worshiped through the sacred candle or lamp flame as Father, Son, and Spirit.

Ishtar, who was now worshipped as the “Mother of God and Queen of Heaven,” continued to build her mystery religion. The queen told the worshippers that when the wild pig killed Tammuz, some of his blood fell on the stump of an evergreen tree, and the stump grew into a full new tree overnight. This made the evergreen tree sacred by the blood of Tammuz, which later evolved into our modern-day Christmas tree. She also proclaimed forty days of sorrow each year before the anniversary of the death of Tammuz.

This became the sin the Lord addressed with the Israelite women in Ezekiel eight.

The details of this idolized event are sickening. During this time, no meat was to be eaten. Worshipers were to meditate upon the sacred mysteries of Baal (Satan) and Tammuz and make the sign of the “T” (for Tammuz) in front of their hearts as they worshiped. They also ate sacred cakes marking a “T” or “cross” on the top.

Every year, a celebration was held on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox. It was Ishtar’s Sunday and was celebrated with rabbits and eggs. This teaching also shifted the Holy day of worship, the Sabbath (Saturday), to Sunday – a misnomer that permeated all Christianity in the latter days.

More ironic, Ishtar also proclaimed that a pig must be eaten on that Sunday because a pig killed Tammuz. Out of this demonic ideation, the Lord established a Law that Jews were not to eat the flesh of pigs, which remains a respected practice to this day by the Jews.

By now, you, as a reader, should have made the connection!

Paganism has infiltrated the contemporary “Christian” churches. However, a fact you might not be aware of is that deeper studies indicate that this paganism came in through the Roman Catholic System. A method to win souls to the Roman state Church was adopting the pagan traditions of ancient Babylon, bringing them into the “church,” and revising the demonic practices with Christianized concepts. The “Queen of Heaven” is the mother of God, Mary, and Ishtar/Easter became the celebration of Jesus’s resurrection versus that of Tammuz. Their efforts proved effective; they cemented these traditions in Christianity, Catholicism, and Protestantism.

Easter Has Nothing to Do With Jesus’s Resurrection

The Truth is that Easter has nothing whatsoever to do with the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. The date is nowhere close to the actual date of Jesus’s resurrection.

Easter is “moons” away from the organic Jewish Passover because the pagan holiday is always set as the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox. This was likely one of Satan’s biggest “slight of hands.”

Some have wondered why the word “Easter” is in the King James Bible. It is because Acts, chapter 12, tells us that the evil King Herod was planning to celebrate Easter/Ishtar. The Roman State Church quickly adopted this “holy day” as a practice to honor Herod’s tradition but with a demonic bent toward Jesus Christ. The rest is history, as they say.  

IN CONCLUSION

So much more could be said, and we have much history provided for us through the prophets of the Old Testament. However, it isn’t easy to stuff 40+ years of studies regarding paganism into one article.

The Bible tells us in John 4:24, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and Truth.”

Easter is much more than a pagan imposter pretending to be a Holy day for Christians. Satan is lurking behind the pretty face of Easter, covering up the greatest fraud of all time: a calendar change that hides the true day of the resurrection and the true seventh-day Sabbath. God’s entire timeline of humanity and heavenly hosts is based on Sunday being the first day of the workweek. He has mandated to keep the Sabbath Holy, Saturday. What did the clever Antichrist do? He made the Sabbath impotent. If anyone knows that God gave humanity six-thousand years and six days to the Lord and reserved the Sabbath for His one thousand-year reign, His day of rest, it would be Satan. No wonder Satan wanted to paganize the ordinances of God. 

As the years passed and the first authentic Christians died, Satan began to corrupt the once-pure faith through paganism. Honestly, he did a pretty good job. The Church in Rome, greedy and forever power-hungry, sought ways to increase her influence. Satan mastered a single madness method that works every time – revisionism. A theological friend once said He who controls the dictionary controls the masses. No truer statement.  

Most are probably thinking, what now? You can do what most do; when in Rome, do as the Romans do, or you can make a stand. When you identify pagan symbols and beliefs – refuse to acknowledge them. As a pastor, I preach a message on the authentic history of Ishtar’s manipulative plan and then conduct a Passover service for our congregation – an organic Hebrew Messianic celebration of Jesus’s resurrection.

The End Times Chronicles hosts the IM Video Podcast, a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

JESUS’S LOVE LETTER TO HIS BRIDE

I hope this letter finds you with your mind fixed upon Me. You have asked for a letter directly from My heart to yours. Actually, I have written many to you from the hands of my faithful witnesses. Since you did not see my signature at the bottom of these letters, you have come to believe these letters are written by mere men. This is the farthest thing from the truth.

I am writing to remind you of the boundless love that surrounds you, lives in you, and is noted in all My letters, including the book of Revelation - a love that is directed toward all who take the time to read them.

Remember, you are fearfully and wonderfully made by My Father, unique in every way, and there is a purpose for your life. You are loved more than you can fathom, not for what you do or what you have achieved, but for the way and purpose our Father created you.

In times of everlasting joy, remember to share My abundant love with those who persecute you. In times of sorrow, remember that it is okay to grieve and that you are never alone. You might not see Me, but I am with you. Reach out to others, for we are all placed on Abba’s earth to reveal His eternal love.

Practice forgiveness, for it is the supernatural key to inner peace. Let go of grudges and bitterness, for they only weigh you down. Instead, choose love and understanding. Remember, depraved souls who do not know Me are fighting their own battles with their fallen nature. You must show them how My indwelling love heals all things.

Lastly, remember when our Father disciplines His people, it is not due to a lack of love. My Father disciplines out of love and because of it. When you read my Revelation love letter, know that our Father is keeping His Word.

May you always walk in and through My Spirit that lives within you!

With all my love, Jesus.

The Book of Revelation, often viewed as a harsh book of prophecy and end times, can also be seen as a profound love letter from Jesus. It is a testament to His enduring love for those God created and His desire for the Bride of Christ to overcome their trials and tribulations as God the Father begins to deliver discipline to those who have refuted Him for 6,000 years.

In Revelation, Jesus reveals Himself as the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last. This signifies His eternal presence and His encompassing love that has no beginning or end. He reassures us of His constant presence, available indwelling Life, designed to guide us through every challenge the believer faces.

The messages to the seven churches in Revelation chapters 2 and 3 demonstrate His deep love and concern for His self-proclaimed born-again children. He acknowledges their deeds, hard work, and perseverance, showing His intimate love and knowledge of believers struggling to be faithful amid their struggles and His desire for all authentic Christians to remain true to their conversion. In doing so, He reminds them of the “how” they will overcome faithlessness.

The visions of the New Jerusalem in the later chapters of Revelation depict a place where there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain. It is a literal place of promise, a wedding gift of sorts, to all who endured to the end. This is the ultimate expression of His love - a promise of a future where every tear will be wiped away, and everlasting joy will be ours. This is why I view the book of Revelation as a love letter from Jesus.

So, while the Book of Revelation may seem complex, harsh, and even intimidating, at its heart, it is a love letter from Jesus, filled with promises of His eternal love and the glorious future that awaits us. It encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that our trials are temporary, but His love for us is everlasting.

The End Times Chronicles is home to the IM Video Podcast, a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

The Enigma of Esther: A Tale of Courage and Royalty.

In the heart of ancient Persia, where the sun kissed the golden sands and whispered Jewish secrets to the wind, there lived a young woman named Esther. Her Hebrew name, Hadassah, meant “myrtle,” a delicate flower that thrived despite adversity. But Esther was no ordinary blossom; she was destined for greatness that replenished itself through the ages.

"For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" Esther 4:14

Her story began with a king’s lavish banquet—a spectacle of opulence and royal excess that echoed through the marble halls of Susa, which now stands on the precipices of modern-day Iran. King Xerxes I, a ruler both feared and revered, sought to display his power and indulge his fleshly whims. Amidst the silken draperies and jeweled goblets, Queen Vashti, known for her covetous beauty, stood her ground. She refused to dance before the king’s drunken guests, defying tradition and womanly pride. Her defiance cost her the throne, and she vanished from the annals of history as one of the most rebellious women of the Susian empire.

Esther emerged from the shadows, a hidden gem waiting to dazzle the world. Her beauty was like moonlight on still waters—captivating, mysterious, and impossible to ignore. When the king’s decree summoned all eligible maidens to vie for the title of queen, Esther stepped into the spotlight. Her almond eyes held Jewish secrets, and her grace concealed determination. The palace buzzed with anticipation as the king’s gaze lingered on her.

The king loved Esther more than all the women, and she found favor and kindness with him more than all the virgins, so that he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti.

(Esther 2:17)

But Esther carried more than beauty. She bore the weight of her people—the Jews—scattered across the vast Persian empire. Her cousin Mordecai, a wise and steadfast man of God, had raised her as his own. He whispered ancient Hebrew tales of faith, resilience, and deliverance. And so, when Esther ascended the throne, she wore her crown not as a mere ornament but as a beacon of hope for God’s chosen people.

Within the palace walls, danger lurked. Haman, a mirrored image of a modern-day Hitler, the king’s highest official, harbored a venomous hatred for the Jews, seeing Esther as a royal threat. His twisted ambition fueled a sinister plot: the annihilation of the entire Jewish race. The lots were cast—the Purim—ironic in their randomness. On a fateful day, the decree would seal the Jews’ fate.

Mordecai’s words echoed in Esther’s heart: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house, you alone will escape. Relief and deliverance will arise from another place, but you and your family will perish.” Esther faced a choice: to remain silent or to risk everything for the love of her people.

She unveiled her secret identity—the Jewish maiden who had become queen. With trembling hands, she approached King Xerxes, her heart labored with fear and resolve. “If I perish,” she vowed, “I perish.” Her plea reached the king’s ears, and he reversed Haman’s decree. The Jews were saved, and Esther’s name was etched into Biblical history, the Jews’ records, and eternity itself.

But Esther’s legacy extended beyond her daring act. She became the embodiment of Biblical courage—the myrtle that bloomed amidst adversity. Her story danced through generations until it reached the minds of present-day believers, whispered by mothers to daughters, etched onto scrolls, and celebrated during the Feast of Purim - the day of the lots fell in Esther’s favor, the woman who saved Israel. The irony of the lots—the Purim—was not lost to the Jews. For Esther, her appointment by the Hebrew God had woven her life into the Jewish and Christian faiths, their/our sacrifice, and triumph over an evil plotting world.

And so, in the quiet moments when the palace slept, Esther would gaze at the stars. She wondered if the heavens whispered secrets too—of love, courage, and the enigma of her existence. Perhaps the myrtle understood, bending gracefully in the moonlight, its roots anchored in history, its petals reaching for eternity.

Esther—the queen who defied fate, the myrtle who blossomed in darkness—remains a beacon for us all. Her story reminds us that even in the grand eternal prophecies, it is the seemingly insignificant threads that weave miracles, miracles that bloom in darkness.

And so, my faithful readers, when you see a myrtle bloom, remember Esther. Her life in full bloom is compared to the “Easter Lilly,” which represents our Savior saving the Jews/Gentiles from the wicked plots of Satan himself.

The story of Esther is the blessed salvation testimony of the saving Grace of Jesus Christ. For within the delicate leaves of both flowers lies the echo of a queen’s courage—an authentic recording that transcends time and whispers: “You, too, can change the course of modern-day plots to eradicate the Jews.”

BLESSED RESURRECTION DAY IN CHRIST

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Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. It is a quality that God produces & releases in us as we walk in His Spirit and abide in His Word. It is not a human effort or a legalistic rule, but a result of God’s grace and power in our lives.

Self-control is a sign of wisdom and maturity. It helps us to restrain our impulses, emotions, and desires, and to act in ways that honor God and benefit others. It also helps us to resist temptation and avoid sin.

Self-control is a means of godliness and growth. It enables us to add to our faith other virtues, such as goodness, knowledge, perseverance, and love. It also helps us to be effective and productive in our knowledge of Christ and our service to His kingdom.

Self-control is a fruit of releasing the Spirit from within that helps us to resist temptation, avoid sin, and live a godly life.

Here are some Bible verses on self-control:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23).

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).

Lion of Judah Films is an outreach of IOM America. Our mission is to provide quality Christ-as-Life media to viewers who need a refreshed view of the believer’s identity in Jesus Christ. We are 100% dependent on the donors of our viewers in Christ. Consider assisting us in our mission HERE.

The End Times Chronicles hosts the Lion of Judah Films videocast - a viewer/reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Here are ten intriguing facts about Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis:

Reporter and Photographer: Before becoming the First Lady, Jacqueline worked as a reporter for the Washington Times-Herald. As the paper’s “Inquiring Photographer,” she interviewed strangers on various topics, including personal finance and relationships. Notably, she even interviewed Richard Nixon, who would later be defeated by her husband, John F. Kennedy, in the 1960 presidential election.

Almost Married Another Man: Prior to her relationship with JFK, Jacqueline was briefly engaged to a Yale graduate named John Husted. However, she called off the wedding due to doubts about becoming a housewife. Shortly afterward, she began dating Kennedy, and they were married in September 1953.

Fashion Icon: Jacqueline was a trendsetter in the 1960s. American women eagerly sought out the famous “Jackie look.” Her chic style, characterized by sleek and classy dresses, inspired imitations. However, her preference for expensive French couture caused controversy during the 1960 presidential campaign. To address this, her father-in-law, Joseph Kennedy, connected her with American designer Oleg Cassini, who designed over 300 of her iconic outfits.

White House Renovation: After JFK won the 1960 presidential election, Jacqueline turned her attention to the White House’s shabby decor. She created the Fine Arts Committee for the White House, courted private donors, and acquired historically significant furniture. Her efforts transformed the White House into an elegant and culturally significant space.

Youngest First Lady: Jacqueline was the youngest first lady in over 80 years. Her mission was to restore the White House’s original elegance and protect its items. She also played a role in passing a law that made the White House’s furnishings property of the country.

Philanthropic Endeavors: Beyond her fashion influence, Jacqueline was committed to philanthropy. Her grace, strength, and dedication to preserving cultural heritage continue to inspire people worldwide.

Born in Southampton: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was born on July 28, 1929, in Southampton, New York.

Marriage to Aristotle Onassis: After JFK’s assassination, Jacqueline married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Socrates Onassis. Their marriage attracted significant attention and speculation.

Children: Jacqueline had two children with JFK: Caroline Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr. She played an active role in their upbringing and education.

Enduring Legacy: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis remains an enduring symbol of elegance, strength, and cultural impact. Her contributions continue to resonate with millions around the world.

These fascinating facts provide a glimpse into the remarkable life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, a woman who left an indelible mark on history.

Here are some inspiring quotes from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis:

“I have been through a lot and have suffered a great deal. But I have had lots of happy moments, as well. Every moment one lives is different from the other. The good, the bad, hardship, the joy, the tragedy, love, and happiness are all interwoven into one single, indescribable whole that is called life. You cannot separate the good from the bad.”

“We should all do something to right the wrongs that we see and not just complain about them.”

“Once you can express yourself, you can tell the world what you want from it. All the changes in the world, for good or evil, were first brought about by words.”

“If you bungle raising your children, I don’t think whatever else you do matters very much.”

“A great goal in life is the only fortune worth finding.”

“Pearls are always appropriate.”

“I think my biggest achievement is that, after going through a rather difficult time, I consider myself comparatively sane.”

“There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world. Love of books is the best of all.”

“One should always dress like a marble column.”

“I want minimum information given with maximum politeness.”

“I am a woman above everything else.”

Jacqueline Kennedy’s wisdom and grace continue to resonate, inspiring generations.

The End Times Chronicles hosts the IM Video Podcast, a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

INDWELLING SILENCE

In the quiet of the soul's enduring night, a weary mind seeks solace and light. The weight of sin is vastly a burden, yet hope emerges from past sins guerdon. But now the Cross, it is bound to last! Behold the rugged, splintered wood where love and sacrifice bind the past. Upon that hill, a Savior bled, His arms outstretched, redemption spread. I wept.

But now His Grace unfolds! From nail-pierced hands, forgiveness flows, a crimson tide that mercy knows. The veil torn wide, the chasm bridged, Salvation whispers to those who died. Grace cried out, the burden He knows, for the enemy of God, is forever closed. I wept.

But on Resurrection Morn! Three days of silence, darkness deep, then morning breaks, and angels weep. The tomb lies empty, death undone, for Christ arose—the victory won. His power released on sinners unknown, to free its captives with hearts of stone. I wept.

But now Eternal Hope springs forth! Now, in the quiet of our hearts and minds, we find salvation's sacred art redefined. His name is a refuge, strong and true. In Jesus' love, we're made anew. I wept.

But now His indwelling! Indwelt by Jesus, I am free, a vessel filled with eternity for all to see. He molds my heart, refines my clay, and shapes brokenness into a new display. His fingerprints upon my soul, a masterpiece of His indwelling bole. His love is eternal and lasting throughout time to redeem a sinner with His Heavenly chime. Today, His life is mine, a sacred art, a dwelling place within my heart. I rejoice! -PHINNEY

Salvation is the most crucial aspect of the indwelling Christian faith.

It is the gift of God’s grace that saves us from the penalty and power of sin and grants us eternal life and forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ. Salvation is the greatest expression of God’s love for mankind and the ultimate purpose of His plan for the world. Salvation is not based on our works or achievements but purely on God’s unmerited favor. Salvation is not an option but a necessity, and it is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and desire to be possessed by the Holy Spirit.

A Special Note: There is a major difference between a “following” Christian and that of an indwelt believer. Followers practice Jesus’s beliefs, while indwelt Christians house the Life of Christ within their souls - releasing His beliefs. The first is NOT authentically saved. The second is the real-deal Christian.

Meaning And Importance of Salvation and Why It Matters:

* Understanding the Plan of Salvation.

* Key Principles and Bible Verses.

* What Is Salvation? - Life, Hope and Truth

Here are some Bible verses that highlight the importance of salvation:

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).

“He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time” (2 Timothy 1:9).

Lion of Judah Films is an outreach of IOM America. Our mission is to provide quality Christ-as-Life media to viewers who need a refreshed view of the believer’s identity in Jesus Christ. We are 100% dependent on the donors of our viewers in Christ. Consider assisting us in our mission HERE.

The End Times Chronicles hosts the Lion of Judah Films videocast - a viewer/reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Experience the Genesis Flood like Never Before

Is Genesis true? What about Noah’s Flood? How did Noah fit the animals on the ark? Wasn’t it a local flood? Have you asked these questions? Though many think it is only a myth, science confirms what the Bible has said all along: the global Flood actually happened, and more recently than you might think! Ancient history, volcanism, the fossil record—all of these and more converge on one simple point: Noah’s Flood is historical, not myth. Join our team of scientists from Answers in Genesis and Liberty University as we reveal the truth about Noah’s Flood.

SELECTED THEATERS MARCH 20TH & 21ST

From the director of Genesis: Paradise Lost, Sevenfold Films and Genesis Apologetics present The Ark and the Darkness: Unearthing the Mysteries of Noah’s Flood. Carefully crafted over two years, this film will provide a photo-realistic portrayal of the Biblical Flood. Sign up your church or organization to show this film and be prepared to experience the Genesis Flood like never before!

Thank you for your interest in Ark and the Darkness. The End Times Chronicles will host the movie at a later date. However, this will be a pay-per-view opportunity. We want to open the doors for conversations about the creation of the world, the flood, Christ’s Second Coming, and God's redemptive plan. Your church can host an event as well.

SIGN UP TO HOST THIS MOVIE MARCH 22 - APRIL 22

The Ark and The Darkness is sponsored by Lion of Judah Films, an outreach of IOM America and The End Times Chronicles. Our mission is to provide readers and viewers with high-quality media to enhance the believers’ growth in Christ.

Beth Marie Evans: Hi Stephen, I have had a chance to listen and watch. I think this is going to be a great, life-changing movie. I pray that many will go to see it. I am planning to when it comes out near me. The more people that think about God, the better. Everyone should know Him.

Epictetus4: Music is excellent. Trailer does create an interest and desire to know more about the film. Since there are Christians that appear ready to accept the Antichrist as Christ, I hope the film will be a warning for some of them.

In Days Gone By: If Answers in Genesis are involved I’ll vouch for it. The world is sleep walking to judgement just as in Noah’s day and truth is at a premium. Anything that wakes them up to Biblical truth deserves to be promoted.

I would recommend you not only watch this film and encourages others also but then if you can visit the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum in Kentucky. I recently spent a few days there and was not only impressed by the quality of the exhibits but how everything points to Christ. If this film can do the same then Praise God.

The End Times Chronicles hosts the IM Video Podcast, a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.