So I just want to recommend a great study tool for those wanting to have a better grasp of the book of Revelations. I have studied it independently since I was a teenager, but this DVD/Blu-ray series is by far the best resource I have found. Professor Jay McCarl helps you to read Revelations and think with the 1st century Jewish mindset: "What did they think." It really helps explain the strange imagery in the book and suddenly makes perfect sense! The study is a bit pricey, but man oh man is it worth it! Here is the link below: https://prophecywatchers.com/product/decoding-future-full-7-dvd-course-10-hours-wstudy-guide/ Even though the prophets of old once proven as a prophet were known as such the rest of their lives. And in the case of "minor" prophets, years often would go by having no word from the Lord. The self proclaimed prophets/apostles of today seemingly have words from the Lord on a weekly basis. Buyer beware! Also, once a "ministry" begins, it's a forever endeavor! Personal ministries, giftings, church's, reputations as well as personal finances also become lifelong institutions!!! Whether via by television, books or music, this lifestyle is self perpetuating. Religion is always big business especially on a full time basis. Sad for me to say, that so many can make a "career" from the stripes of Christ's back. And yet so many continue to chase after teachers and prophets, rather than the Spirit! TR Yep, when I used to have t.v sometimes I would tune into Perry Stone. He would annoy me with him speaking soooo fast to cram his message in 20 minute time slot and then spent 10 minutes advertising his DVD’s/books as well as his agenda of where he was going to guest speak next so you buy your tickets to hear him in person. Meanwhile the subject he was speaking on earlier .. he would leave you hanging and then say you must buy the DVD to hear the rest. Ugh! He could have just continued the next week but no. Then there is Jim Bakker trying to sell his overpriced buckets of dry goods and survival junk - from the solar rotisserie, thermal head to toe bulky space outfit - you couldn’t even put your arms down or sit down when wearing, to a manual generator - you had to keep cranking up every hour. I wonder who needed rotator cuff surgery afterwards. Nothing would surprise me if he truly is a pre-tribber but because he needs his followers to buy his overpriced prep junk he is telling them its mid or post trib to scare them. It truly amazes me he still has a following. Again, follow the money! Anything to sell books, dvd's, conference seats, or to keep a following. After 50 yrs, people are still buying into the old scam that we have to prove to God how much faith we have by giving some teacher/preacher a thousand dollars! Still buying anointed cloths and miracle water! Was it Paul or Peter's shadow which touched someone and brought healing?! How can you sell a shadow??? Truth be known, as mad as I am at all the money making schemes found within the Church, I believe I am more mad at the "sheep" who buy into them! After having spent all her substance to cure an issue of blood, the woman finally went to Jesus! All we can do is pray, seek God and beseech His compassion and lay our petitions before Him. It's He who does or doesn't heal, not any of our self effort! Sadly it's our own itchy ears that give many their power and wealth! TR Having studied this series, thanks to you! Even though, I have studied the book of Revelation for decades, Jay McCarl really brought it home. Great study, highly recommend it. :thankyou :agree
