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“The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thess. 2:9-12 God transforms hearts by His truths. Satan transforms hearts by his lies. Jesus declared in John 10:10, “The thief [Satan] does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.” Satan steals, kills and destroys through deceptional lies that misdirects people away from the Gospel of Jesus Christ and towards spiritual death. The word gospel means “good news.” The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the good news that Jesus came to provide forgiveness of sins for all who believe. Here are foundational truths and scriptures that support the good news: 1 . We are all sinners. ( Ps. 14:2-3; Rom. 3:9-18, 3:23, 5:12; 1 John 1:8 ) 2 . We are forgiven and considered righteous by God because of: a . His grace. ( Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:8-9; John 3:16-17; 1 John 1:9, 4:9-10; Eph. 1:7; 2 Tim. 1:9; 1 Peter 1:3 ) b . Our faith in what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross. ( Rom. 5:8; Acts 16:31; 1 John 5:4; John 3:15; 5:24; 6:40; Heb.2:14; Isaiah 53:4-5; John 14:6, 15:13; Acts 4:12; Col. 1:13-14; Rom. 10:9 ) 3 . There is nothing we can do by our own human efforts to add to what Jesus has already done for us. ( Titus 3:5; Gal. 2:16; Eph. 2:8-10; 1 Peter 2:24; Romans 8:31-39 ). 4 . Christians receive the Holy Spirit ( John 14:16, 26, 15:26, 16:7, Eph. 1:13 ) to assist in: a . Despising and turning away from sin (repenting). ( Romans 6:17-25; 1 Cor. 10:13 ) b . Becoming a light in darkness so that others may see Jesus. ( 1 John 1:7; 2 Cor. 5:17, 21; Mat. 5:14- 16 ) c . Preparation for eternity with God. ( 1 Cor. 6:11; John 16:13; Col. 1:12-14; John 14:1-4 ) To effectively reach and influence the greatest number of people upon earth, Satan is increasingly using media channels to propagate his lies to misdirect hearts from knowing the truth. Media Channels Media channels are different ways to communicate to the masses; such as television, movies, radio, publishing (print), and the internet (which supports television, movies, radio, and publishing—but also supports podcasts, influencer websites, and so forth). All types of media are utilized by Satan to influence those who willingly watch and listen. But what’s more, all types of media enables Satan to position and package his delusional lies as “entertaining” or “informational,” thereby facilitating penetration through “protective barriers” within the mind, heart and soul. Satan’s overall objective is to use the media to portray sin as being acceptable behavior—with the intent to steal, kill and destroy by causing sin to be entrenched within the culture’s social norms. When you take the time to evaluate the massive amount of content that is available today—and categorize what is appropriate for enhancement of faith and the glorification of God versus that which promotes sin and unrighteousness—it has become increasingly difficult to find content that is appropriate for Christians. In addition, the workings of Satan is transitioning from clandestine to unconcealed. His blatant influence has become easier to see by those who are in the light, and increasingly difficult to recognize by those who are in the dark. Take a moment and consider media behavior and content that what was considered unacceptable just a few years ago. Now consider much of the unacceptable behavior and content seems “normal” today. However, as we get closer to the Tribulation, behaviors and content within the media will push today’s social norms into unimaginable darkness—as evil entities open the media floodgates that will darken the hearts and minds of those who: • Reject Jesus Christ. • Justify murdering the faithful in Christ. • Will experience God’s wrath. • Are destined for the lake of fire. Take time to look closely at the graphic below...because it spiritually depicts what is occurring in the world today. We are increasingly deluged with lies and misinformation that is not only difficult to navigate and swim in, it’s also hard to keep our head above the turbulent caustic waters as we hold onto truth. To help during these times, Jesus made seven promises to those who overcome: ( Rev. 2:7, 2:11, 2:17, 2:26, 3:5, 3:12, 3:21 ). It is also important to remember, “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4 As Satan’s floodgates are opened, the volume of the demonic deluge of delusional lies will increase as darkness seeks to overcome the light—which will cause many to drown in the turbulent floodwaters. Unimaginable behaviors are worsening, and are transitioning into social norms and common everyday events as we enter into the last days. Our global transformation into darkness is facilitated by public persons—who are manipulated by evil spiritual entities—who speak lies that are designed to create deception, division, destruction, despair, death (physical and spiritual), and wars. The multifaceted consequences of those who believe the lies include hatred, fear, desolation, darkness, chaos, and sin. Throughout time God has restrained Satan’s power and influence upon earth. However, “He who now restrains” will “step aside” —thereby giving Satan his darkened desire to use his unrestricted power and influence. “For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way. And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:7-12 These demonic influences have occurre d in small increments for a specific reason. If you place a frog in a cool pot of water and slowly turn up the heat, the frog will stay in the pot until the water reaches boiling, meanwhile killing the frog. However, if you place the frog in a boiling pot of water, it will immediately jump out of the pot. Psychological studies (and common sense) have proven changes in social norms (including the transitional changes we’re presently experiencing) are more easily introduced and accepted over time if they initially occur in smaller and less obvious increments—followed by additional changes that continue to push slightly beyond the “boundaries of acceptability.” Perceptional acceptance of gradual changes as being “normal” occur because we are less sensitive to them and are preoccupied with what we consider to be more important issues in our day-to-day living. Like the frog, we may realize it is getting warmer, but "So what, it does not seem much different than it was just a short time ago." As the deteriorating conditions across the globe worsens: • People will vainly seek anyone who can turn down the ever increasing heat of the boiling pot we live in. • There will be increased opportunities for doctrines of demons to influence, misdirect, and generate hatred towards anyone who disagrees with their delusional lies. • Divisional factions and animosities will greatly increase. • The consequences of overwhelming turmoil will cause the foundations of faith to be greatly shaken. False Christs and False Prophets Satan will add to his “mix of lies” demonically-inspired persons who will declare they are the Christ, and others who will declare false prophecies. The messaging of the false christs and prophets will be broadcasted by various media channels for the world to digest. “Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons.” 1 Timothy 4:1 “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand.” Matthew 24:23-25 Jesus will return ( Mat. 24:36-44; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Thes. 4:16-17, 5:1-3; Rev. 1:7; Heb. 9:27-28; John 14:1-3 ). During the last days the faithful will proclaim Jesus is returning to all who will listen. To misdirect from this truth, Satan will cause false Christs and lying prophets to rise and receive prominent media coverage as they make lying proclamations that are supported by unprecedented signs and wonders—all intended to deceive the masses from believing the truth. “Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, ‘Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?’ And Jesus answered and said to them: ‘Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved.’” Matthew 24:3-12 God revealed the horrible consequences that will occur in the last days in Revelation 20:4: “Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands.” The gospel of Jesus Christ will reach the ears and eyes of all nations “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 God is also using the media to reach and save lost souls. This website and many others are examples. However, as Satan increases global darkness, God will illuminate the light of Jesus to reach and save as many as possible by pouring out His Spirit, performing miraculous signs, and communicating the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all nations. “And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, that I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maid servants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy. I will show wonders in heaven above and signs in the earth beneath: blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord Shall be saved.” Acts 2:17-21 “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:13-14 There are two “sides” or purposes to the global declaration of the good news. First, it will save a great uncountable number of persons during the Great Tribulation (Rev. 7:9-17). And second: • No one will be able to use an excuse of “I never knew.” • Those who reject Jesus Christ will experience wailing (crying, sobbing) and teeth-gnashing—because of their unimaginable pain, and because they will understand why they are eternally tormented in the lake of fire with no hope of relief...for eternity. “The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness, and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.” Matthew 13:41-42 For more information read “God Will Use Unprecedented Events During the Last Days to Save the Lost” on UniqueBibleStudies.com. What To Do There is nothing we can do to collectively change the future course of global events...because the turmoil that we are experiencing is part of God’s plan to segment the wheat from the chaff, pour out His wrath upon those who reject His Son, and prepare the world for the return of Jesus and His millennial reign. Therefore, there are three things we must do to prepare for what’s coming: humbly submit all aspect of ourselves to the lordship of Jesus Christ; study and internalize God’s word; and enhance our spiritual discernment. • “Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.” Romans 16:17 • “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” Colossians 2:8 • “Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 Spiritual Discernment Spiritual discernment is comprised of insight into things that are not physically apparent. In addition, spiritual discernment is a God-given attribute that Christians should seek to magnify as the world is prepared for the Great Tribulation of the last days—when there will be unimaginable distress, persecution and misery. Jesus warned us about the times that are before us. “For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be.” Matthew 24:21 There are multiple ways for demonic entities to disseminate their influence. However, they must use humans to achieve their objectives. In addition, to have the greatest global impact, they will target persons who can reach and influence multitudes of people. As such, demonic entities seek to manipulate people within governments, news channels, the entertainment industry, religious leaders, and the Internet. In addition, they target those who have not accepted Jesus as Savior and Lord—for those who are not filled with the Holy Spirit are targets for manipulation by deceiving spirits to spread doctrines of demons. To improve their influential “acceptability” among the masses, the demonic deceivers will often depict themselves as being religious, or deeply concerned for the wellbeing of the people. Some declare they are Christian and will speak Christian doctrine and/or principles—but their words and behavior are manipulated by evil entities that are seeking to darken the hearts and minds of anyone who will listen. It is important to note that Satan’s greatest influential strength is to mix lies with truths. In addition, he has persuasive skills in using conceptual truths to grab one’s attention, create reasons to continue listening, and gain a “foothold” into the mindset of the listener. However, those who know God and love His truths will experience “red flags” of concern as lies are discovered that are intertwined within the declared truths. Whereas, those who reject God and His truths will not experience red flag concerns, and will embrace what is declared as absolute truth. Unfortunately, it is possible for some Christians to overlook the red flags and find various means to justify their belief in the one who deceives. • “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1 • “For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand.” Matthew 24:24 • “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” Matthew 7:15-19 Here are various indicators of bad fruit...for they: • Will combine false biblical concepts and/or words out of scriptural context with true biblical precepts. • Express causticity (abrasive, demeaning, critical, judgmental) towards those who do not align with their declared beliefs. And worse, they may attack through oppression, imprisonment, execution, or war. • Do not express God’s love, grace and forgiveness. • Do not declare the biblical spiritual truths of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. • Are clandestinely motivated by personal gain (monetary, political, etc.) • Will magnify the consequences of Satan’s lies: deception, division, darkness, destruction, despair, desolation, hatred, fear, chaos, sin, and death (physical and spiritual). In addition, we can enhance the accuracy of our discernment by identifying works of the flesh vs. the fruit of the spirit by comparing their words, behavior, character, morals, and ethics against ( Galatians 5:19-24 ). Satan’s Method of Devising Deceptional Lies Our source of truth is the Bible. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Satan is a master at mischaracterizing the meaning of God’s word with lies. God did not say that...this is what He said! He executes his lies by using one or more tactics: replacement, relevancy, benefits and context. Replacement Satan will modify the meaning of what God said by replacing God’s words with different words. An example of this approach is how Satan responded to Eden when she stated God’s direction to Adam was to not eat from one specific tree in the garden, and God’s warning that if eaten, “...you shall surely die.” (Gen. 2:16-17) Satan simply manipulated the meaning of God’s commandment by replacing the words “shall” with the words “will not.” “You will not surely die.” Gen. 3:4 It is important to note that Satan’s word replacement included truth (they will not die physically), with a lie of omission (they will die a spiritual death). Relevancy Another tactic is denying the relevancy of God’s word. This is when someone takes the position that some portions of scripture is outdated because it was written to address issues when cultures were different. The basis of this argument is that cultures and social norms have changed over time—and therefore, some specific scripture is irrelevant. However, God and His word is eternal and does not change. It is written: • “For I am the Lord, I do not change.” Malachi 3:6 • “The word of the Lord endures forever.” 1 Peter 1:25 • “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.” Isaiah 40:8 • “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 • “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:35 • “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” Luke 11:28 Benefits Benefits (the value to be gained by doing something, or value lost by not doing it) play a critical role in our decision making. In fact, we evaluate benefits every time we make a decision. Depending upon the cost, our benefit analysis can range from a quick subconscious evaluation (what to have for lunch), to a complete financial analysis (when buying a car/home). Satan will create mental images of benefits that one may obtain by sinning. Satan created potential benefits within the mindset of Eve: “Your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Gen. 3:5 It is important to note Satan’s declaration of benefits to Eve combined truth with lies. It is true their eyes will be opened to see good versus evil, and that they would be like God (in that He knows good and evil). However, the words Satan chose may be misunderstood by Eve in that she would be “like or equal to God” (which is a lie, and what Satan has always desired). In addition, Satan did not state the non-beneficial consequences of spiritual death: which was a deliberate omission to facilitate his desire to steal, kill, and destroy. If you analyze your thoughts prior to sinning...you will discover that you mentally visualized the fleshly benefits of the sin, and you did not focus upon all the negative consequences. The next time you are tempted...force your focus upon the multiple consequences (including the emotional pain of guilt, shame and remorse) that you experienced from past failures...as you pray to God for direction in how to overcome the temptation and flee. Satan has used benefits to justify abortion. The Bible does not specifically say “Thou shall not have an abortion.” However, there are scriptures that relate to abortion: ( Psalm 139:13-16, Jer. 1:5; Exodus 20:13; Prov. 6:16-19 ). In addition, people would sacrifice their infants to the idol of Moloch. God declared, “You shall not let any of your descendants pass through the fire to Molech.” Lev. 18:21. The core declared benefits to support th e argument for abortion are based upon maintaining human rights and freedom of choice. These lies have created a deep division between Christians and those who do not know Jesus as their Savior and Lord. From a Christian perspective, it is difficult to imagine a mother murdering their growing and living child within their womb. However, those who prefer to sin must find a way to mentally justify their sin—even if the justification is based upon a delusional lie. However, this is not a “black and white” issue with clear solutions. There are additional relevant and valid arguments for abortion; such as a pregnancy that is threatening the life of the mother, and pregnancies caused by rape and incest. After much reflection, (right or wrong) the following is my personal opinion (for your consideration to accept or reject). I believe abortions for life threatening pregnancies should be approved by a doctor. I also believe pregnancies caused by rape or incest should be approved on a case-by-case basis by medical and government intervention. These heart- breaking scenarios comprise a relatively small percentage of pregnancies, and should not justify abortions for anyone at any time. Besides, we have the individual rights, freedom of choice, and responsibly to make prudent decisions to not engage in behavior that may cause a pregnancy. “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust.” 1 Thess. 4:3-5 Context Satan will alter the meaning of God’s word by taking scripture out of context by omitting surrounding words that gives the scripture its complete meaning—plus omitting scripture that clearly defines the lies as sin. This out of context strategy is exemplified by the influence upon the social changes of acceptance and embracement of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer) lifestyles. To foster acceptance as a social norm, there has been an increase in the depiction of LGBTQ lifestyles in all aspects of the media. In addition, those who have said anything negative regarding LGBTQ persons have been attacked by harsh public (media covered) retribution in the form of verbal chastisements, blacklisting, and firings from their means of employment—thereby stifling others from stating God’s truths. The Bible is explicitly clear regarding: • The sin of homosexuality: ( Lev. 18:22, 20:13, Jude 1:7; Rom. 1:26-28; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; 1 Tim. 1:8-11 ) • Christian love for one another: ( 1 John 4:7-8, John 13:34; Mat. 22:39; Rom. 13:10 ) The LGBTQ agenda has taken the above scriptures on Christian love for one another out of context—and redefined the meaning to support their argument to sin, and to attack Christians. Because the Bible says Christians are to love one another and their neighbor as themselves, Christians who do not approve and embrace their lifestyle are haters, hypocrites, and homophobic. This position takes scripture out of context, and deliberately omits the biblical scriptures that define LGBTQ behavior as sinful. The LGBTQ messaging has successfully influenced social norms, and has caused some Christian churches to change their doctrines to embrace sin that aligns with biblical definitions of sinful behavior. These actions to align with changing social norms by justifying sin within the church has resulted in multiple caustic consequences as these churches split apart—including divisiveness, despair, and spiritual death. Important Note: We are all sinners and flawed to the core. As such, no one should ever judge or condemn someone for their sin—for it is only God who is qualified to righteously judge and condemn someone. Christians should pray for those who are living in sin; express God’s love and grace by sharing His truths from a humble heart; and seek to become a mirror reflection of Jesus to facilitate the working of Holy Spirit in their life. Test Every Spirit During the last days there will be an increase of demonic messaging—positioned and packaged as being “Christian”—that will contain words that are intended to magnify division and hatred towards God’s faithful. • “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness.” 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 • Jesus said, “You will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake.” Matthew 10:22 God designed us with an attribute of skepticism. Skepticism is defined as a process of (1) doubting and questioning the truth of a stated fact or opinion, and (2) seeking evidence that supports or rejects the stated fact or opinion. Spiritually, skepticism helps to protect us against harmful influences. Without this God-given attribute we would believe (and accept as true) everything we see and hear. As such, it is important to realize any person’s stated fact or opinion has the potential to influence others. Therefore, when you hear a stated fact or opinion: • It is ok to be skeptical and do not initially accept anything at “face value.” • Foundationally base your analysis upon scripture. • Attempt to determine if the declaration is comprised of one or more of Satan’s techniques: replacement, relevancy, benefits, and context. • When evaluating the validity of the stated fact or opinion, carefully (and skeptically) seek different sources of information. Biased sources explain only one side of an issue. Therefore, it is prudent to evaluate different sources—even if the source is known to be on the “other side.” Be assured, Satan and his minions are actively influencing all sides of an issue—especially within politics—in order to divide and destroy. • Sometimes liars will make absolute statements that are difficult to verify—and will deflect questions when asked for clarification. Whenever possible, seek to obtain verifiable and indisputable facts. • Use behavioral insight to evaluate their words, actions and persona. Be skeptical of public influencers who “Prophesy to you a false vision, divination, a worthless thing, and the deceit of their heart.” Jeremiah 14:14 “The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thess. 2:9-11 The coming Tribulation will separate the saved from the unsaved; those who love the truth from those who do not; those who seek pleasure in righteousness from those who seek pleasure in unrighteousness; those who will spend eternity with Jesus from those who will spend eternity in the lake of fire. The final days will involve unprecedented and unimaginable separation between the wheat and the chaff. For John the Baptist made a public declaration regarding Jesus: “His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather the wheat into His barn; but the chaff He will burn with unquenchable fire.” Luke 3:17 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” Matthew 7:24-27 This lesson may have caused a feeling of discomfort as you read the content—because it focuses upon the pending darkness and future unknowns that are before us. However, I pray the lesson enhances your understanding and spiritual discernment of what’s causing the world’s turmoil, and has created a heart-felt determination to prepare your heart and soul for the coming storm. I look forward to when we will all join together in the glorious worship of our Lord and Savior in Heaven after this is all over. Harold D. Thomas Thought Provoking Questions The purpose of the questions is to facilitate a deeper understanding of the Bible, this Bible study topic, and ourselves. The questions may be answered by each reader, or used by a Bible study group leader or church pastor. The questions are designed to enhance learning by discovering and solidifying personal beliefs, opinions and perceptions. As such, no answers are provided Questions The lesson states God transforms hearts by His truths, and Satan transforms hearts by his lies. Do you agree or disagree? Explain. There are 4 different aspects of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. How would you explain the meaning and relevance of each aspect to someone who has never heard of the good news. • We are sinners. • We are forgiven by our faith in Jesus. • We cannot enter into Heaven by our own human efforts (works). • We receive the Holy Spirit to assist in all aspects in our Christian life. Prioritize the following media channels as to their ability to influence the masses: • Television • Movies • Radio • Publishing (print) • Internet The lesson states we are increasingly deluged with lies and misinformation that causes division, destruction, despair, death (physical and spiritual), and wars. Can you identify examples? What are your thoughts regarding the analogy on how to boil a frog? Are you able to identify lies that have slowly changed cultural norms towards the acceptance of sin? • If yes, what are the consequences? • Why is it more difficult for a young person to realize these changes have occurred? • Have educational institutions reinforced these social changes as well? The lesson introduced 4 different tactics Satan uses to manipulate God’s word (replacement, relevancy, benefits, and context). Can you identify an example of how one or more of these tactics have been employed? The lesson states one who prefers to sin must seek reasons (delusional lies) to justify their sin. Why must this occur? Plus, can you identify a personal example? Do you think an objective of Satan and his minions (within governments) is to embed opposing political factions with lies that will create the greatest division, hatred and hostility between the government’s political factions? Plus, is it possible for these polarizing lies to be dispersed to the populace via the media—thereby causing greater division, hatred and hostility amongst the people? • Can you identify examples? • Is this strategy to divide and destroy by polarizing lies applicable to nations? Explain. What is the most important thing you can do to prepare your heart and soul for the coming storm? You may download a P DF version of the questions by clicking on this button.