PRE-PUBLICATION SPECIAL

LADY BUGITY BOO

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Offer good till December 15th

Lady Bugity Boo is the story about a petite Lady bug named Boo who is bullied by several thugs at her woodpile school. Mona Arch narrates the account of how Boo overcame the painful bullying and arose to find out that life was worth living because she had a talent her world needed. This timely message is written in a style like the beloved Dr. Seuss children's poems and beautifully illustrated by

Dr. Tamara Winslow for ages 6 on up.

Don't forget to register for the COOPERATING WITH HEAVEN INTERCESSORY PRAYER SEMINAR. It will be held June 29th-July 1st. Hope you can attend. 

LIVING IN A VISUAL GENERATION

 Acts 2:16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon 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 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 19 And I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: 21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Joel 2:28-32) .

Surrounded by a nearly constant mush of visual stimuli, Christians face a real challenge in sorting through the jumbled fusion of worldly eye candies and spiritual eye sores. Moreover, the Church generation emerging out of the human development of technological advancements has acquired a consuming appetite to see and feel, above believe and trust. Consequently,  there is often pressure upon ministries to use the most recent visual technology so that believers will "feel" entertained by the minister and the message. But do these man made visual treats produce lasting deep fruit and spiritual impact? That question is yet to be answered and seen. 

I don't believe it is therefore merely coincidental that Peter's great Acts 2 sermon predicted that before the return of the Lord, signs and wonders would for the most part be visible, instead of audio. Even so, the Scriptures reveal that when sight and seeing became the basis for belief and decision, the results were almost always short lived. Seeing seldom produces lasting faith.  On the other hand, perhaps one of the reasons God will go "visual" before the second coming is because the time element will be such that it will not be necessary for long term results. Consequently, these spiritual visual expressions must be understood so that we can differentiate between what is man made visual influence and what is sovereign, Divine visitation.

I have attended a variety of conferences and meetings over the course of the last 10 years and have listened to various spiritual leaders emphasize how God is now frequently visiting His people in visions. In those meetings, the pursuit of visitations, visions, trances and spiritual seeing were excessively and strongly endorsed while the foundations of the Bible seemed to be dismissed as non-essential. This has caused me great concern. I know God speaks in visions, dreams and other visual manifestations. However, the appetite for experience is dangerously pressing people to feel that if they see something in the Spirit, they don't need the Word. This unhealthy unbalanced drive will eventually end in serious error, spiritual confusion, emotional and mental problems. There needs to be great wisdom when approaching this matter.

I do not doubt that God will be manifesting Himself and His truth by the Spirit in the times to come. He's already doing that in amazing ways. However, the frequency I see exemplified in the Scriptures, is not nearly as often as what I hear being touted as what should, and, may be happening. In fact, the number of visions various individual ministers actually had in the Bible were rare, except in the case of those things related to the inward witness and revelations. So what should our posture be concerning this?

FIrst of all, just as a reminder, there are several different categories of vision/ visions identified in the Bible. 


Review the list below.

1. There is the type of vision that God’s Spirit inspires in truth that produces a goal, a dream, a purpose, a hope and direction for life. People who lack such become lawless and aimless. They are like wandering, lost little children in adult bodies.

2. The second type of vision is a revelation. 

3. The third type of vision frequently described in Scripture is something theologians have termed as a “theophany”. A theophany is a spiritual sight of God, His beauty, His plans displayed in spiritual patterns and templates, His power, His glory and things of Heaven.. This manner of vision might come in a variety of forms. Those expressions are as follows.

    A. Open visions are visions, although rare, are generally associated with both the apostolic and prophetic ministry and callings. 


     B. Trances are another type of vision related to theophanies. 

4. Finally there are numerous references and examples of false and ungodly vision warned of in the Bible. They are identified as vain visions, lying divinations, visions of their own heart, false visions of peace and seeing things in their own spirit. 

I believe it would be extremely helpful to us to understand what the Bible says about how these visions will occur. How is God going to do this?

One of the greatest misnomers of spiritual revelation, and especially seeing open visions and trances, is that we can make it happen. Ugh. Let me say this once loud and clear. You cannot make a vision occur, especially those identified as open visions, trances and spiritual revelations. However, there are conditions that may on occasion foster an environment where God may speak. 


GOD GRANTS VISION BY THE SPIRIT IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS

GOD WILL OPEN THEIR EYES

2Kgs. 6:14 Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and they came by night, and compassed the city about. 15 And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? 16 And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. 17 And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. 18 And when they came down to him, Elisha prayed unto the LORD, and said, Smite this people, I pray thee, with blindness. And he smote them with blindness according to the word of Elisha.

Many years ago, as a child, I remember watching a late night summer Billy Graham meeting on our black and white television. His taught that God does not give His people fear and He wants them to believe in Him and not be afraid of anything. Dr. Graham shared that many times when we need to believe, we may be faced with great and visible adversaries that threaten our trust in God. He read an amazing account from 2 Kings 6:14-18. To this day those words are burned into my spirit. The events of that passage explain that the servant to the prophet Elisha was terrified because he could see the armies gathered, surrounding the city where they abode. He knew that these armies were sent to do the prophet harm. The man did not realize that God's armies were there as well protecting the prophet. Elisha simply said, "Don't be afraid. For they that are with us are more than they that be with them."  This alone is an amazing statement. Elisha had prophetic eyes and knew there was no real danger. But his servant didn't have that same revelation. A marvelous, merciful act of God occurred as Elisha prayed for the distressed man and I love what happened because of of this prayer. "Lord, open his eyes!" Instantly, the servant saw the nearby mountains filled with Heaven's horses and chariots of fire! Imagine his shock and the relief! Yet, just a short while later, Elisha, who'd previously prayed for eyes to open,  prayed that the enemy soldiers would be blinded and unable to find and harm him. Astounding!


John 20:29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. 


God wants you to KNOW that He is UNDENIABLY, INEXORABLY, ABSOLUTELY real! That kind of knowledge is born in lots of ways, mostly though, because of a healthy, dynamic intimate prayer life. Moreover, like the prophet's servant, this generation does not widely possess a revelation of the manifest present working of God's power. They need a radical introduction to the reality of the God of the Bible. That's why visual manifestations through the Spirit of truth are critical for this time. Truthfully, He would much rather that you believe the truth of His word, than pursue a visual event. In actuality, faith is much greater when it's a product of the revelation of the Scriptures. Nonetheless, He does not scorn the need for evidence, when it's truly required. It just takes a miraculous intervention for it to occur. 

                    
HE’S THE ONE WHO OPENS THE EYES OF THE HEART!

Prov. 20:12  The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them.

A great deal could be written about this subject and I've addressed the matter in several previous posts. But we must accept this fact! He is the one who makes and gives the hearing ear and the seeing eye! The question is: How does He do it?


UNDERSTANDING HIS WAYS!         

EYE OPENERS

Acts 26:17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, 18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. KJV

KEYED IN WITH THE APOSTOLIC AND PROPHETIC MINISTRY
Paul the apostle, preacher and teacher was an amazing man. His gift and calling were unusual in that he was sent by God to open the eyes of the people! God may use individuals, anointed and capable of opening spiritual eyes. There are a variety of ways he was used to do so that cannot be replicated or imitated without the accompanying grace gifts from God. His preaching, teaching, lifestyle, ministry expression and miraculous works were not just testimonies of God's power. They were keys; keys that would unlock blind eyes to see truth!


Similarly, the prophet Elisha prayed a prophetic prayer and the eyes of his servant were opened in the passage we've already ready. (2 Kings 6:14-18)

THE POWER OF ENCOURAGEMENT              

Isa. 35:1 The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. 2  It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the LORD, and the excellency of our God. 3   Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. 4 Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompense; he will come and save you. 5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. 6 Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.

Fearful, discouraged people seldom see life clearly. But when God strengthens and encourages toward faith, and the promises of His word announce hope to the human spirit, the spiritual eyes are opened and vision may come. You have no idea how much difference you can make by being encouraging in the right way. 

THE SOVEREIGN VISITATION OF THE SPIRIT

Ex 3:1  Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb.    2 And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed 3  And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt   4 And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I.    5 And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.   

6 Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.  

KJV

Moses was out in the wilderness taking care of sheep, minding his own business when God showed up. Throughout the Bible that is simply how God did it. He gave vision in His time, way and uniqueness. The sovereign visitation and vision of the Lord, especially in the case of a theophany, generally occurs when you least expect it. It's not convenient and it's up to Him, not you. The question is: Will you turn to see what He is doing when He does it?

THE POWER OF TRUTH FROM THE SCRIPTURES


Obviously, the truth of the Scriptures can open the spiritual eyes so that vision may be seen. In fact, you could say that biblical truth is a spiritual trigger. 


THE GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT- WORD OF KNOWLEDGE, WORD OF WISDOM, DISCERNMENT OF SPIRITS, AND PROPHECY


On occasion, various gifts of the Spirit enable an opening of the eyes so that the individual may receive a vision. The discernment of spirits, for example, includes the discernment, sight and perception of both spiritual realms. So we should not be surprised that visions may occur when these gifts manifest. 


BEING IN THE SPIRIT (FULL OF THE SPIRIT)

Isa 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple KJV

Ezek 1:1   Now it came to pass in the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, in the fifth day of the month, as I was among the captives by the river of Chebar, that the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God.  KJV

Acts 7: 55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,  KJV

 Revelation 1:10  I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, KJV

The concepts of being in the Spirit and full of the Spirit are key to how God speaks in vision. The Apostle John, while on the Isle of Patmos, saw the vision of Revelation because he was in the Spirit. Being in the Spirit, or full of the Spirit, should not be compared to a feeling or an emotional hype. It is the state of cooperating with the truths of God, the submission of one's feelings and thoughts to God's word, and a love for God that overlooks any circumstance and condition. The Isle of Patmos is virtually nothing more than a rugged remote pile of volcanic rock. There were no natural reasons for John to be in the Spirit. He had, however, learned how to live above his circumstances and conditions. This was an amazing man. The Roman emperor, Domitian sentenced John to be boiled in oil in the site of a massive crowd in the Colosseum. Miraculously he was not harmed, and did not suffer from the unusual tortuous punishment. Tradition states that the entire audience converted to Christianity after witnessing the miracle! So the dismal environment of Patmos was insignificant to him. He was in the Spirit and saw the  Revelation.

PAIN CAN BE A TRIGGER


The young deacon, evangelist, Stephen saw a vision of heaven while being stoned to death for his faith. Throughout history accounts are described where people facing painful situations saw a vision of the Lord, Heaven or spiritual things in the midst of their pain. 

PRAYER AND NATURAL HUNGER COMBINED CAN BE A REASON A VISION OCCURS


Peter the evangelist apostle was hungry. He also had a significant issue. He didn't think that the Gentiles could be saved without adhering to the Jewish standards for faith. So, while waiting to eat one day, he was praying up on the roof of the house, when in a moment he wasn't suspecting, he fell into a trance and saw a vision. Now, I'm not referring to the New age, occultic kind of trance. The Bible refers to trances on a variety of occasions, generally in reference to the prophetic ministry. Furthermore, a trance involved being more aware of the spiritual realm than the physical, as the physical senses are essentially suspended. This is what happened to Peter. But there may be a third factor involved in why he saw. Cornelius, the Roman soldier had prayed to God. Visions may occur in your life not because of anything you have done, but simply because someone else is praying and God wants you included in the drama. Don't ever underestimate the prayers of others.


WHEN????


At this point I think it bears mention that visions generally occur when you least expect them. People who purposely try to set the stage for a heavenly visitation by being in "sacred place", or being with the right people, or something else, miss it entirely. God makes Himself known on His terms and in His timing. We don't tend to think this way. So stop trying to force His hand.

WE MUST ASK AN IMPORTANT QUESTION. WHO DOES GOD DO THIS FOR? WHOSE EYES DOES HE OPEN TO SEE?

Number one. He does not open the eyes of those who seek for signs! He opens the eyes of those who simply want Him involved in every aspect of life! We'll delve into this more in the next article. 

                   
Number two. He opens the eyes of those who want and need God to prove his reality to them. Thomas needed proof, as does this current generation. God's going to grant that as the times for the Second coming get closer. 

                      

Number three. He opens the eyes of those who have quit trying to see in their own strength and run away imaginations. He looks for people who want to simply believe and don't feel they need a vision to accomplish that. Your eyes will generally not be opened until all you want is Jesus. Chasing after visions only produces run away imaginations and eventual disappointment. If your faith is dependent on a vision, then your faith is bound to be shallow and temporary. Let go and let him be God. 

THE GENERATION WHO HAS PUT GOD ON TRIAL


John 20:19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you; 20   And when he had so said, he showed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. 21   Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. :22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. 24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. 26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. 30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.


Has this generation put God on trial? Is it demanding that He prove Himself without believing His word? Is this generation arrogant, thinking it can command God to do what it wants? Very possibly, YES!


In many ways, our current generation of Church, and the world, have become like doubting Thomas. Without a sign, and seeing what it thinks it needs, it won't believe. Even so, Jesus met Thomas where he was at. Furthermore, if God did it once, He will possibly do it again. 


The next article in this series on the Spirit speaking truth through vision will consider and address the generation like Thomas and the dangers it will face. But until then, endeavor to walk and be in the Spirit. Make yourself available to Him to do what He desires when He wants to do so. Who knows what you will see when you wait upon Him?

BE THOU MY VISION- The Spirit speaks truth through Vision

 Before humanity received God’s written Word, He communicated His truth to people who had a heart after him using a wide range of expressions. We’ve been taking a look at as many of those, as reasonably possible, attempting to make sense out of some very complicated, and sometimes, controversial manifestations. The Holy Spirit conveys truth to the believer in many different ways. Therefore, I want to continue to investigate how the Spirit speaks truth in this article through the vehicle of vision.

Biblically, the subject of vision is complex, and in order to remain accurate, as well as practical, I want to take some quality time and explain, to the best of my ability at this time, this wonderful, but often difficult means of spiritual expression. Let’s begin!

Many Christian leaders have been setting forth the idea that we are in the time, or very near the time, prior to the second coming of Christ, and what the Bible refers to as the Last Days or the end of all things. (1 Peter 4:7) I would love to believe that the Lord’s return is soon upon us, but I reserve my opinion as to where are at in that time line for numerous reasons which for now must remain unshared for the sake of space, context and time. Nonetheless, we are closer today than we were one hundred years ago. And, if we are nearing that epoch, there are some crucial things we need to understand concerning how the Spirit will speak Kingdom truths before we see Jesus face to face.

Acts 2:16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon 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 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 19 And I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: 21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Joel 2:28-32)

Quoting from the prophet Joel, Peter’s Pentecostal sermon revealed that in the Last Days the Spirit will cause various spiritual manifestations to occur in the people of God. They will prophesy and see great wonders in the sky and earth, but most notably, they will experience visual encounters and expressions of the Spirit of Truth over and above the frequency of verbal spiritual expression. Notice this. They will see visions and dream dreams, which in truth is just another expression of a vision, with the exception that it occurs when one is asleep. Furthermore, the percentage of visual experiences radically outnumbers the audio encounter and expression. This should not be ignored.

1 Kings 18:21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.22 Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the LORD; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men. 23 Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: 24 And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken. KJV

1 Kings 18:37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the LORD God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again. 38 Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. 39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God. KJV

I have often wondered, and believe that the evidence pertaining to our time and generation may require more visual proof and communications from God than previously essential. The reasons for this could be many. Much of the world, linked by computers and Internet, is becoming increasingly visually driven and stimulated. It is also no coincidence that the condition of the human conscience in the general population, from what I’ve observed, has become so indecisive and passive, that it will take a visual proof of God’s power to rock their world. Remember the account of Elijah and the fire that fell to consume the water-soaked sacrifice on Mount Carmel?  The people were initially indecisive concerning who they would follow: Baal or The LORD God. Their conviction of conscience was passive and the people refused to commit to God without proof of His greatness. Hence, after praying, Elijah called out to the Lord and fire fell from the sky displaying visible, undeniable proof of God’s sovereignty! As a result the people, influenced by a visual exhibition, chose to follow God, albeit temporarily. I’m convinced we live in a similar time and the doubting Thomas generations will need to see visible confirmation of God as God! Regrettably, in an attempt to facilitate this visual appetite Church leaders could come to the conclusion that if they use visual stimuli and media resources, those things will suffice. But, No! The things Peter preached of are not of human origin. Before Jesus returns the spiritual knob for visual manifestations will be cranked up to high levels so people can see. Regrettably, this increase of vision will occur in both spiritual kingdoms: God and Satan. Therefore, we desperately need to be instructed in what it means to receive truth from God, by His Spirit, through vision, a vision and visions.

The subject of vision is multi-faceted and because of the wide range of definitions for the word, needs clarification so we can understand what Peter was referring to.

THEY SHALL SEE VISIONS

DEFINING VISION, VISIONS AND A VISION ACCORDING TO DICTIONARY AND THESAURUS

         

 Various dictionaries reveal that the English word “vision” originated in the 14^th century and could be defined several different ways.

 Number One, it can mean to be something seen in a dream, trance, or ecstasy, especially: a supernatural appearance that conveys a revelation. It could be a thought, concept, or object formed by the imagination, as a a manifestation to the senses of something immaterial.

Number Two, vision can also mean  the mode of seeing or conceiving.

Thirdly, vision may be defined as an unusual discernment or foresight, such as a referring to a person of vision. This would include a direct mystical awareness of the supernatural usually in visible form.

Fourth, vision is the act or power of seeing, as in sight pertaining to the special sense by which the qualities of an object (as color, luminosity, shape, and size) constituting its appearance are perceived through a process in which light rays entering the eye are transformed by the retina into electrical signals that are transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve

The word and concept of vision is also synonymous to revelation, apocalypse, oracle, prophecy, apparition, phenomenon, presence, daydream, dream, fantasy, imagine, realize and visualize.

Biblically, there are 10 Hebrew and 10 Greek words that can be translated as the word vision, with quite a wide assortment of definitions and components. In order to simplify these words and their definitions and to provide you a somewhat more practical approach to the matter, I have condensed and merged the various definitions of these 20 words in the following description.

A VISION, VISION OR VISIONS, ACCORDING TO THE BIBLICAL LANGUAGES COULD BE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS. ( Please take a look at the chart on Vision)

1.The act or power of seeing, as in sight, where one is gazing, looking, beholding, staring at an appearance of something whereby one may see with the intelligence, by experience & or with the human spirit, in which one may observe, inspect  & dissect what is seen with wisdom and understanding. Persons involved in such, regard, take heed to, consider, and learn about what is seen, in order to form a thought, concept, or object formed by the imagination. It may include the act or power of positive and negative imagination.

2. Vision may also be defined as to perceive or a perception with an unusual discernment, perception or foresight of something spiritual or character attributes of man. Prophesy, to prophesy are directly related to the definition.

3. Vision may also be something seen in a dream, trance, or ecstasy; especially a supernatural appearance that conveys a revelation. It may be a direct mystical awareness of the supernatural usually in visible form and a manifestation to the senses of something immaterial

4. Vision may also be a goal, purpose, hope or desire, hence a vision of the way to go or do i.e., an expectation!

 

So then, how do these things apply to our subject in learning how the Holy Spirit of Truth speaks through visions?

In order to keep this as simple as possible, at first, let me give you a very condensed list of types of vision, that pertain to our subject biblically.

Prov 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, But happy is he who keeps the law.  NAS

1. There is the type of vision that God’s Spirit inspires in truth that produces a goal, a dream, a purpose, a hope and direction for life. People who lack such become lawless and aimless. They are like wandering, lost little children in adult bodies.

This type of vision, or purpose, may also involve a calling, and since it’s fulfillment is conditional on many factors, it’s fulfillment is generally quite flexible and fluid. That however is not the case for all types of vision, depending of course on how the vision comes and how the Spirit communicates it. Visions of this sort are also often born out of a burden, concern, crisis or bothersome need.

1 Corinthians 14:6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? KJV

1 Corinthians 14:26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, everyone of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. KJV

1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. KJV

2. The second type of vision is a revelation. The concept of a “revelatory” vision is derived from the Greek word, apokalupsis, or apokalupseoos,  that is defined as an uncovering. It is a manifestation of the Spirit to lay bare and disclose a truth concerning divine things before unknown. This uncovering, however, is not malicious or suspicious in nature. It unveils something hidden for the benefit of those receiving it without dishonoring someone in a derogatory manner. It works hand in hand with love and may also inspire intercession and compassion, rather than cruelty, self-righteousness and condemnation. Love covers a multitude of sins.

This form of vision, or revelation, may or may not involve seeing something in the Spirit, and if the person receiving this revelation does see something, that image or picture could be compared to a slide show or flashed image in the inner man. It generally happens quickly, in a matter of a split second and can be challenging to test and sometimes is easily dismissed as an imagination. These visions or revelations may also include a sense of perception accompanied by an inward witness or knowing. This type of vision is, and should be common, in the walk of the spiritually minded believer, but, even so, should always be weighed and discerned against Scripture, God’s character, wisdom and of course the fruit of the Spirit. Its accuracy, however, will be greatly affected by the condition of the conscience and the character of the believer.

3. The third type of vision frequently described in Scripture is something theologians have termed as a “theophany”. A theophany is a spiritual sight of God, His beauty, His plans displayed in spiritual patterns and templates, His power, His glory and things of Heaven.. This manner of vision might come in a variety of forms. Those expressions are as follows.

1 Samuel 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.KJV

Open visions are visions, although rare, are generally associated with both the apostolic and prophetic ministry and callings. This manner of the Holy Spirit’s communication enables the human being to operate in several realms at the same time. The person seeing such a vision will cognizant of both his or her natural and spiritual surroundings and is allowed to see the things of the unseen spiritual realm, such as seeing Jesus as real as the rest of the surroundings. These visions are rare, but still relevant. It is highly probable these will increase as the need for greater revelation and comfort is necessary for the types of times Jesus predicted would occur before His second coming. This type of vision cannot be manufactured or forced to happen, and anyone who dares to do so is in extreme danger. In fact, this type of vision frequently occurred in the Bible at a time the visionary least expected.

Numbers 24:4 He hath said, which heard the words of God, which saw the vision of the Almighty, falling into a trance, but having his eyes open: KJV

Acts 10:10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, KJV

Acts 11:5 I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: KJV

Acts 22:17 And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance; KJV

Trances are another type of vision related to theophanies. I use the word trance cautiously fully aware that the word has gotten a bad rap because the New Age movement uses it in their vocabulary. Nonetheless, it is a biblical word and one of significant importance. A trance is a manifestation of a vision when the person’s physical senses are suspended and he or she is more aware of the spiritual unseen realm than the natural. In fact, when a person falls into a trance, she or he may be oblivious to what’s going on around them. There are numerous examples of godly trances in the Scriptures. Peter the apostle fell into a trance while on the rooftop of the house. He was not expecting it, but the Spirit of God came upon him to reveal a truth of heaven for the purpose of jolting Peter into how God loves humanity.

4. Finally there are numerous references and examples of false and ungodly vision warned of in the Bible. They are identified as vain visions, lying divinations, visions of their own heart, false visions of peace and seeing things in their own spirit. The false prophets identified in the Scriptures demonstrated many of these false visions. However, people with good intentions and wanting to comfort others, yet void of a Word from the Lord, or divine encounter, may see something in their imagination and call it a vision from God. These things must all be considered and tested with great wisdom.

I have included a list of types of vision and vision for you to consider on your own in depth, along with the Bible references for your personal study. Hopefully this will be of help to you. In my next article I will address how the Spirit actually works to manifest the godly visions that instruct us and guide us into truth. Until then, check out what the Bible has to say for each of these categories.

 TYPES AND CATEGORIES OF VISION AND VISIONS

A.  OLD TESTAMENT-

    1. Specifically related to godly visions about, from and of God-

             a. Trance- Num 24:4,16

             b. Spiritual sight of God-

                  i. Theophany- Gen. 15:1; 17:1; 18:1,2; 26:2,24; 32:30; 35:1,9; 48:3; Ex. 3:2,16; 4:1, 5; 6:3; 24:11; 33:20, 23; Lev. 9:4. 5:24; 16:2; Numb.9:15; 12:6, 8; 14:10,14; 1 Sam. 3:21; 13:15; Ps. 89:19; Isa. 6:1, 5; Ezek. 1:1, 4, 13-15, 27-28; 8:2,3; 40:2; 43:3; Amos 7:1,4,7; 8:1; 9:1; Dan. 10:7, 16;  Joel 2:28;  Zech. 9:14; Mal. 3:2; 1:2;

                 ii. Beauty of the Lord- Ps. 27:4

               iii. Power and glory- Ex. 16:7, 10; Numb 14:10,14,22; 16:19,42; 20:6; Deut. 5:24; 31:15; Ps. 63:2; 97:6; 102:16; Isa. 26:10; 40:5; 60:2; 66:18-19; Eze. 3:23; 44:4-5;                                    

          c. Spiritual patterns- Ex. 25:9,40; 26:30; 27:8; Num. 8:4;

          d. Spiritual sight and revelation- a vision- Gen. 12:7; 16:13; 22:4,8,13,14; 26:28; 31:10,12; 32:2, 30; 41:19, 22,28; Ex. 3:3; 24:17; 14:13, 31; 33:10, 18, Num. 12:6; 22:23,25,31,33; 23:3; 24:1-2, 17,20; Deut. 1:33; 4:9, 12, 15,35; 7:19; 10:21; 18:16; 29:2,4; Josh 5:13; 6:12,22; 13:3,10, 19; Judg 13:6; 1 Sam. 3:15; 2 Sam. 7:17; 1 Chron. 17:15; 2 Chron 32:32; Job 4:16; 7:14; Pro. 22:3; Isa. 1:1; 13:1; 22:5; 29:11; 48:6; 52:8; Jer. 1:10-13; 13:20; 24:1-3; 30:6; Ezek. 1:1, 4, 13-15, 27-28; 2:9; 12:27; 19:5, 11,16-28; 8:2,4, 9, 12, 15, 17; 10:1,8, 9, 15, 20, 22, 22; 11:1, 24; 12:240:3; 40:4; 41:8, 21; 42:11; 43:3; 47:6; Amos 1:1; Micah 1:1; Dan. 8:1-4, 6-7, 13, 15, 20, 26; 9:21, 23, 24; 10:1, 5, 6, 7-8, 14, 16,18; 11:14; Joel 2:4, 28; Nahum 1:1; 2:4; Hos. 12:11; Obad. 1:1;  Joel 2:28; Zech. 1:8,18, 20; 2:1; 3:1,4; 4:10; 5:1,5; 6:1,8; Hab. 2:1-3;

               i. Saw the Word of the Lord- Isa. 2:1; Jer. 38:21; 2:31;

               ii. Err in- Isa. 28:7

        e. Burden-Isa. 13:1; Hab 1:1; Isa. 22:1

        f. Open vision- 1 Sam 3:1

        g. Night vision- Dan. 2:19; 4:5; 7:7,15

              i. Visions by night- Dan. 7:2

              ii. Visions of the night- Gen. 46:2

        h. Grievous- Isa. 21:2l

        i. Discernment- Malachi 3:18

        j. Perceive—Jer. 23:18

        k. Revelations-

              i. In God’s appearance- Gen. 35:7

              ii. Of spiritual things and persons- Num. 22:31

        l. Visions of the head- Dan. 2:28; 4:9,13; 7:1,15

        m. Visions of my dream- Dan. 4:9

2. SPECIFICALLY RELATED TO UNGODLY VISIONS NOT FROM GOD-

         a. Vain vision- Jer. 23:16; Lam. 2:14; Eze. 13:6-8,23; 12:23-27; 21:29;

         b. Lying divination

         c. Err in- Isa. 28:7

         d. False vision- Jer. 14:14, (Zech. 13:4 ?)

         e. Vision of their own heart- Jer. 23:16

         f. Deceits- Isa. 30:10

         g. Failing vision- Eze. 12:22

         h. Visions of peace- Eze. 13:1

3. VISIONS RELATED TO OBSERVATION AND CONSIDERING NATURAL AND SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS

         a. Observation of man’s life and actions- Ps. 142:4; Pro. 7:7; 22:29; 24:32; 29:16              

         b. Mirrors- Ex. 38:8

         c. Seeing of natural things linked to spiritual things- Gen 3:6; 9:14; 13:10,14; 21:9; 31:2,5; 40:6, 16; 45:27; Ex. 2:11-12; 16:15; Deut. 28:34, 67; 34:1,4; Num. 24:20; 27:12; 1 Sam. 16:7; Pro. 6:6; 27:12; Isa. 11:3;Eze.. 37:8; Dan. 1:10,13,15; Hag.2:3; Hab. 3:7                  

              i. Ungodly- Eze. 21:21

4. WHERE THERE IS NO VISION- Pro. 29:18; Ecc.1:8; Lam. 2:9; Micah 3:6                                

        a. Seen nothing, following their own spirit- Eze. 13:3

        b. Unable to see- Eze. 12:2

        c. Observe not- Isa. 42:20

5. GENERAL AND UNSPECIFIED TYPES OF VISIONS- Pro. 20:12 22:3 24:32; 26:12; 27:12; Eze. 7:26; Dan. 1:17; Joel 2:28; Zech. 13:4

6. Natural seeing or sight

B. NEW TESTAMENT-

      1. SPECIFICALLY RELATED TO GODLY VISIONS ABOUT, FROM, AND OF GOD-

              a. Open- Matt. 17:3, 9; Acts 7:31; 12:9; Luke 9:36

              b. Vision of God-

                    i. Theophany- Matt. 5:8; 24:30, 26:64; 28:7; Mark 13:26; 14:62; 16:7; John 16:16-22; 19:37; John 1:18; 5:37; 6:46; 8:38; 14:7,9; 15:24; 20:18, 20; 1 Cor. 9:1; 15:5-7; Acts 1:3; 9:10, 17; 13:31; 18:9; 26:19; 2 Cor. 12:1; Heb. 11:27; 1 Pet. 1:8; Heb. 9:28; 12:14; 1 John 3:2; Rev. 1:7; 22:4

                ii. In glory- Luke 9:31; John 11:40; Acts 7:2

           c. Spiritual sight and revelation- a vision- Mark 9:4;Luke 1:11,22; 9:36; 16:23; 21:27; 24:34, 23; John 8:57; 9:37; 14:7; John 1:51; Acts 2:3; 9:12; 10:3; Acts 16:9; 26:16; Rev. 11:19; 12:1-3; 9:17

          d. Trance- Mark 5:42; 16:8; Luke 5:26; Acts 10:10, 17,19; 11:5; 22:17

           e. Vision with a pattern- Acts 7:44

           f. Revelations- Rom 2:5; 16:25; 1 Cor 14:6, 26; 2 Cor 12:1, 7; Gal 1:12; 2:2; Eph 1:17; 3:3; 1 Peter 1:13; Rev 1:1      

           g. General vision- Acts 12:9; 16:9-10; 22:15; 1 John 1:1-3; 3:6; Acts 2:17;

 2. VISIONS RELATED TO OBSERVATION AND CONSIDERING NATURAL AND SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS

          a. Seeing of natural things linked to spiritual things- Luke 13:49; Acts 7:30-31, 35

          b. Perceive- Human condition of spirit- Acts 8:23

          c. Take heed- Matt. 16:6; 18:10; Mark 8:15; Luke 12:15

3. Not seen- Col. 2:18; 1 John 4:20; 3 John 1:11

AN IDIOTIC CONSECRATION: THE SEQUENCE OF LAWLESSNESS REVEALED.

Believers who decidely attempt to live a consecrated life for God, in order to be "holy," can fall into a serious trap of deception when they forget about the other fundamental aspects of Christian doctrine such as love, forgiveness, grace, kindness and gentleness to name a few. I recently read an article written by a young man who is totally sincere in his desire to be set apart to God, but sincerely decieved.  Decieved? Yes.


 Heb 12:12 Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; 13 And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. 14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: 15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; 16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. KJV


1 John 4:15 Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.16 And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.19 We love him, because he first loved us.20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen 21 And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also. KJV

When the most important tenants of faith, such as love, are laid aside in favor of pursuing consecration and holiness, pride inevitably steps in and blinds the zealous soul. I ached when I read the article, that the young man, "a wanna be minister", wrote, because it smacked of pride and reeked of a sense of spiritual superiority over other believers, void of the most important command to the believer. Love! Biblically, we're commanded, even exhorted, to love significantly more times than we are to be consecrated or holy. True holiness is not developed out of mere doing of laws and principles. It is done because of love for God, and manifested as we endeavor to exhibit His character of holiness in our world through humility and grace.

Regrettably, believers who presumptuously set themselves into leadership ministry positions according to their rigid understanding of the foundations of consecration and holiness, generally diminish the postures of love, forgiveness and kindness. Because of this they consequently live a life based on works and legalistic do's and don'ts. They justify their actions as necessary to holiness secretly believing that everyone else is spiritually inadequate. Furthermore, if they attempt to teach or minister, their teachings will then nearly always focus on extremes of pollutions and take up the stance of avoiding anything that looks like it could be evil. Hence, any interaction with the world, the unsaved, the immature believer, and the usage of modern technology, marketing and education, becomes evil and forbidden, or the people and the practices are accused of being Babylonian in design and function. As a result they generally isolate themselves to such a degree that they become sectarian and divisive, all in the name of being consecrated to God. They forget that Daniel lived smack dab in the middle of Babylon and was used by God marvelously to bring the things of God into view of the very pagan world, similar to what we live in today. Sadly, these same people will eventually gravitate to the very thing that they think they are fighting, i.e. lawlessness and Babylon, while being blind to the path that their pride has led them down. God have mercy on their lives. Yes, Babylon is a seducer. But isn't it time we mature to the place where we can walk right into the enemy's territory and be unaffected by it? Jesus did not cut himself off from the unsaved people of his day in order to be holy. He walked with them.

Now I know there are short term seasons where we spend time seeking God and lay aside the distractions of this world. I ask my students to keep this in mind when they attend an Institute or Institute Seminar. However, in those times if separation is necessary, the people you love and interact with, saved and unsaved, deserve the courtesy of an explanation so that they won't be offended or feel unloved once you take the time to seek God. Nonetheless, when believers live to be holy without love in mind, that courtesy goes out the window and spiritual pride overtakes the deceived soul. I would not be surprised if we will see this type of self-righteous, self-justifying behavior increase in the years to come. For you see, as the mystery of lawlessness increases in the earth, and the genuine seductions of Babylon overtake the unlearned soul, believers will consequently react fearfully to the lack of boundaries and endeavor to enforce a boundary system that looks spiritual, when in fact, it will be extremely works-based and legalistically oriented.

Guard your hearts, saints. Stay balanced in doctrine and truth. Never forget that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, self-control, goodness, faith,and meekness.  Take note if these things are absent. Because,if they are, you can be guaranteed deception is close behind.  Truth is always balanced and preceded by mercy, and consecration comes out of that attitude, rather than they other way around.
 

TO ASSIST YOU AND HELP YOU RECOGNIZE THE WAY THIS DECEPTION WORKS,  I'VE PUT TOGETHER A LIST REVEALING THE  PATTERN   AND  SEQUENTIAL CYCLE OF PAIN THAT ENSUES ONCE THE REMOVAL OF  BOUNDARIES BEGINS.
For the sake of space, and the fact that there are literally hundreds of Scriptures that apply to these principles, I have elected to simply list these points with only a select set of  the verses and occasional background Hebrew and Greek definitions.
So let's begin.

          NUMBER ONE- CURSE BEGINS
Deut 27:17 "Cursed is he who moves his neighbor's boundary mark.' And all the people shall say, "Amen.'  NASU
            This is a principle that can't be ignored. The Scriptures are loaded with principles and we need to pay attention to them. Whether the boundary is a physical line that determines ownership of property, or a boundary of ownership protecting values, vision, conscience, truth, health and more, removing the boundaries, bring a curse. This cursing results in some form of evil, torment or misfortune that comes as if in response to imprecation or as retribution.

         NUMBER TWO- WORTHLESSNESS  PUMMELS  YOUR THOUGHTS, FEELINGS, ABILITY  TO  LOVE  AND  RECEIVE  LOVE  FROM  GOD AND MAN-   

2 Corinthians 6:15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? KJV               

 This is accomplished because the spirit of anti-Christ, also identified in Scripture as the spirit Belial, whose name means worthlessness, begins to condemn all value in an individual including their talents, anointing, accomplishments and fruit.
                 As a result, that person's will  may begin to shut done and they will lose their ability to fight. When this occurs the individual will struggle with an unexplained and difficult to identify inner rage. 


          NUMBER THREE. THE  "ANOINTING" OR WHAT THE BIBLE REVEALS AS THE GRACE GIFTS AND ABILITIES BEGIN TO SHUT DOWN.  
             People who struggle with this aspect of the sequence find it difficult to function and become crippled in their confidence in God and their own gifting.  Because of this, their vision and purpose begins to die, and they feel like they're floundering.                                        
                      Isa 10:12 Wherefore it shall come to pass, that when the Lord hath performed his whole work upon mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish the fruit of the stout heart of the king of Assyria, and the glory of his high looks. 13 For he saith, By the strength of my hand I have done it, and by my wisdom; for I am prudent: and I have removed the bounds of the people, and have robbed their treasures, and I have put down the inhabitants like a valiant man: 14 And my hand hath found as a nest the riches of the people: and as one gathereth eggs that are left, have I gathered all the earth; and there was none that moved the wing, or opened the mouth, or peeped. KJV
                       Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. KJV


          NUMBER FOUR. THE PERSON'S INHERITANCE IS STOLEN, AND THE PROMISES MADE TO THEM, OR BELONGING TO THEM FROM GOD, ARE FORGOTTEN.
            People, or ministries experiencing this find they can't possess their inheritance and forfiet it to the world. What's more, they can't even remember what God has promised to them and they have lost the ability to praise in their Spirit. On top of all of this, they feel an anger, in the area of their emotions, that seems to be perpetually present. Because of their loss, they may also sense a feeling of defilement.

          NUMBER FIVE- POVERTY OVER TAKES THEM IN ALL AREAS.
          Poverty affects a variety of areas of the human existence. It is not just financial. It may be manifested by lack of all types, such as lack in faith, peace, and love etc. In the economic realm, because of this, the structure needed for wise financial management is not set into place, and the finances of the person affected by the cycle lives in in a constant condition of crisis. It may even go back and forth between wealth and poverty and wealth and poverty.

        NUMBER SIX. A LACK OF DISCIPLINE DEVELOPS RESULTING IN THE PERSON HATING HIM OR HER SELF.
                   Prov 15:32  He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding. KJV
                   Prov 15:32 He who refuses and ignores instruction and correction despises himself, but he who heeds reproof gets understanding. AMP

         Their despair creates an “I don’t care” attitude, and individual or people cease to learn and receive instructive discipline, eventually hating themselves. Consequently, widespread chaos erupts. Furthermore, confusion reigns so one knows what’s going on or what to do.

          NUMBER SEVEN. DESPERATION FOR  CHANGE RESULTS. THE PEOPLE, IN ORDER TO GET SOME SEMBLANCE OF BOUNDARIES IN PLACE, WILL ATTEMPT  TO   ESTABLISH RULES  IN  POSITIONS RATHER THAN LIVING ACCORDING TO GRACE  AND  CONSEQUENTLY, LEGALISM   MOVES IN.

            In an attempt to restore the protections and purpose for their lives, the victims fearfully react and set up strict structures of law thinking this will change the affects of lawlessness. In actuality, their actions only cause more frustration in the end and results in internal  anger. They have forgotten the basic principles of faith, love and grace, so they become driven by the catastrophe or dilemma of their situations. And if they believe that holiness can be achieved by these things, then their very efforts to be holy, or have boundaries, eventually produces an attitude of self-righteousness and pride.

          NUMBER EIGHT. AT THIS POINT IN THE SEQUENCE, LEADERS MOVE INTO POSITIONS OF CONTROL, FORGETTING LOVE, AND LOSE THE SERVANTS HEART.

              Individuals, and even those who are leaders, become so desperate for change, desiring to correct all the supposed errors and problems, that in their desire to accomplish something, while also ridding themselves of the worthlessness, will begin to forcibly demand respect and control of those they interact with. They become intolerant of anyone who disagrees with them and demand tolerance from everyone they involve themselves with. Their agenda is very self-serving.

       NUMBER NINE. THERE IS A TOTAL LOSS OF INTIMACY WITH GOD AND MAN.

            The person entrapped by this pattern cannot genuinely feel, or know God, because by the time the cycle has gone this far, so many walls of protection and defence from offenses have been built, that there is no genuine intimacy.   This lack of intimacy also begins to invade all aspects of human sexuality resulting in every possible perverted form of intimacy.    
             People who have gotten to this stage of things also lose the ability to communicate in healthy manners. Marriages crumble, friendships fall apart and relationships become warped by unhealthy ideologies concerning what is intimate.

         NUMBER TEN. THOSE WHO HAVE SUCCUMBED TO THIS LEVEL OF THE PATTERN GENERALLY FALL PREY TO THE SEDUCTION TO IDOLS, THE KNOWLEDGE OF IDOLS, THE SEDUCTION OF THINGS AND PERSONS. 

Deut 12:3 And ye shall overthrow their altars, and break their pillars, and burn their groves with fire; and ye shall hew down the graven images of their gods, and destroy the names of them out of that place.KJV

Ex 23:13 And in all things that I have said unto you be circumspect: and make no mention of the name of other gods, neither let it be heard out of thy mouth. KJV

Ps 16:4 Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips. KJV

Hos 2:17For I will take away the names of Baalim out of her mouth, and they shall no more be remembered by their name. KJV

Eph 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. 12 For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. 13 But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. KJVThis occurs because the persons debased by the lies are consequently unable to discern error and they are blind to their own condition. They therefore fall into an idolatry of man, things or idols and become dependent on experience and feelings of success without relationship in Christ.

            Let me further state that without exception, people who have laid aside the practice of love, and the fruit of the Spirit, will eventually become thoroughly enamoured with understanding the ways of satan's kingdom and his demonic forces in the earth, laying aside the importance of knowing God and caring about people. For this reason, they will say that they are wanting to fight Babylon, when in reality they have unwittingly been seduced by it's power structure and operation. They will seek to know all the deep dark things of satan in the name of warfare and not even realize that they have lost their first love for God. Babylon seduces people through the gathering of information to understand it, and then as that information saturates their things, they become infatuated eventually falling into unwitting spiritual fornication. Once this happens, it is almost impossible to change their course of thinking and spiritual emphasis.

    NUMBER ELEVEN. THERE MAY BE PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PATTERN.

                Because a great majority of the pattern of the mystery of lawlessness originates with the ancient Assyrian power structures and systems, a spiritual ungodly yoke is imposed upon the neck and a burden of performance falls upon the shoulders. This may, and often manifests, in physical problems of the neck and shoulders of a person. Radiating pain and pressure may occur in the upper spinal column until this thing is broken.

                 If a believer is standing in the gap for someone else who has no boundaries, that intercessor may experience similar physical maladies as the one without boundaries.

            NUMBER TWELVE. FINALLY, ONCE THE BOUNDARIES FOR TRUTH, DOCTRINE, LOVE AND MORE ARE GONE, AN EVIL PRINCIPALITY NAMED NEBO MOVES IN TO TAKE THE TERRITORY

                Lastly, I don't like to mention this because of needing to name what will come but Nebo, a Babylonian god will overtake the souls.  Nebo was the Babylonian god of fire and was worshipped with fire. He counterfeits the fires of God on all levels. Nebo’s name also is rooted out of the same word translated as prophet or prophecy. When he moves into a territory, after Babylon has successively captured the heart of a person and killed the genuine prophetic and apostolic ministries, as well as destroying the person’s personal ability to receive revelation from God, Nebo begins to release false prophets and prophecy. Since discernment is disabled, these false prophets and false prophecies are difficult to discern. Nebo is also named for the Greek god Mercury. This is extremely important when attempting to establish righteous spiritual boundaries. 

Nebuchadnezzar was named after this god and his name mean’s Nebo protects the boundary.  When desiring to reestablish boundaries of any corporate ministry nature, Nebo and/or Nebuchadnezzar must be dealt with based on the truths of God's word and character including the fruits of the Spirit. However, one needs to realize that there will be a battle to regain the lost territories. He will attempt to maintain his ground and can only be driven out by God!

 We are called to be ambassadors for our God. We cannot, however, be that if we are unbalanced and ignorant in our approach to living our faith. The sequence of the removal of boundaries, or the establishment of lawlessness is consistent throughout the scriptures, but it can be stopped at any stage of the cycle. The point is: if we want to follow Jesus, then we need to do so according to the balance of His word and character. I believe as Lawlessness advances in our world and the Babylonian system endeavors to seduce every human being in any culture, we must be constantly reminded that holy consecrated living is not determined by legalistic endeavors that promote self-righteous pride and exclusivity. Love is the fulfillment of all the Law, or put loosely, the fulfillment of all the boundaries of God. Beware of anyone who requires rigid lifestyles of supposed consecration and who ignore the most important commands of all. Love the Lord your God and Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no higher goal to attain to.

Romans 13:10  Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. KJV

Rom 13:10 Love does no wrong to one's neighbor [it never hurts anybody]. Therefore love meets all the requirements and is the fulfilling of the Law. AMP