ISRAEL UPDATEJanuary 23, 2005 - At the close of World War I, the Versailles Treaty demanded stiff reparations of Germany to repay what they had taken. It also had severe limitations placed upon their military industry, in order that they would not be able to rebuild.
After World War II, Italy was in ruins, Japan was dealing with the aftermath of two atomic blasts, and Germany lay in ashes from the Allied Forces incendiary bombing raids.
After reviewing the loss of life and limb, the multiple millions of displaced refugees, and the horrific financial hardship placed upon the world - did anyone really feel sorry for the aggressors, or condemn the Allied Forces for seizing the spoils of war? Absolutely not!
Yet in today’s world, Israel is constantly taken to task for the lands she seized in the 1967 War. The world seems to think that they need to give it all back, even after eliminating the threat of hostile enemies.
In the decades since, Arab aggression (disguised as Palestinian nationalism), continues to cause Israel to die the death of a thousand cuts.
Even more perplexing are the European nations that have felt the wrath and oppression of Hitler's genocide and brutal war machine… they crucify Israel today.
This double standard shows us just how warped we are as a whole in our perception of Israel. Isaiah 5:20a clearly states, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil…” That spirit is very much alive and well today – we live in a truly dangerous world…
January 23, 2005 – When certain missionaries come to your door telling you that the Bible is only correct when properly translated, most of us would refer to our Bible… telling them that anyone that adds to or takes away from the book will be judged by G-d. (Rev 22:18) They counter by saying that the passage quoted only refers to the Book of Revelation. However, would not it seem odd that G-d would magnify His word above His name in Psalms 138:2, but only state that in one book?
Deuteronomy 4:1 tells us, “Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the L-RD G-d of your fathers giveth you.”
We are told to hear, obey, and possess – however, notice the following verse, “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the L-RD your G-d which I command you.” Deuteronomy 4:2
If followed, the commandments established by G-d in the Torah (the first five books of the Bible) could keep you from suffering the wrath of G-d that is outlined in Revelation.
If we add to the Bible, we create a man-made system of legalism, supposedly satisfied by the work of flesh. On the other hand, if we take away from the Scriptures, we create a liberal abuse of freedom that promotes a sinful environment. Neither of these is capable of producing a fruitful walk with G-d.
If we as Christians will hear from G-d's word and obey Him, then we can possess not just a fruitful life on earth, but enjoy eternity. When G-d says to not add or take away from His word, “go with it” and live life more abundantly.
To be continued…