Has legalism kept you from pursuing the fullness of your relationship with Jesus?

In an interview on His Glory’s Take Five with Pastor Dave Scarlett, Alexander Pagani discussed his new book, Manipulated and how to live free from the bondage of legalism’s grips.

Pagani first started by giving a description of how none of us start off legalistic, but end up finding ourselves in this category when we start making the rules more important than the holiness of God.

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To pre-order Alexander Pagani’s new book, Manipulated, visit .

“Sometimes these bylaws or dogmas that are designed to help us walk in holiness end up becoming the ends to the means,” Pagani says. “So, the rules that are designed to help us keep the rules end up becoming the main rules.”

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Pagani notes that when we add in rules that were not commanded, it can even drive us to want to break that which was given to us by God for our own benefit.

“We end up in dangerous territory, and nine out of ten times we end up violating those very laws that we put in place to help us maintain the law,” he says.

When the focus shifts from intimacy with Jesus to an obsession with rules and control, we miss the freedom and grace that the gospel offers. Christ came not to burden us with man-made regulations, but to invite us into a relationship marked by love, truth and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. True holiness flows from a heart surrendered to Him, not from fear of breaking rules or striving to measure up.

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For believers who have struggled under the weight of legalism, Pagani’s message is a call to return to the simplicity of the gospel. Ask the Lord to reveal areas where rules have replaced relationship, and allow His Spirit to lead you back into the joy of knowing Him. As we embrace the freedom Jesus purchased for us on the cross, we can walk in genuine holiness—rooted in love, empowered by grace and unshaken by the shifting demands of religious tradition.

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

Archaeologists in Jerusalem’s City of David and across Europe are uncovering discoveries that don’t just rewrite history—they validate the faith and scriptures that have guided generations.

In Jerusalem, researchers recently uncovered a massive ancient wall that is believed to be a dam at the southern end of the City of David, a discovery reported by CBN News and confirmed by archaeologist Danny “the Digger” Herman. Dating back to 805–795 BC, this dam predates King Hezekiah by nearly 200 years. Evidence suggests it was likely constructed to manage flash floods and secure Jerusalem’s water supply.

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Herman suggest that centuries later, King Hezekiah would expand this infrastructure, creating the Hezekiah Tunnel and the Pool of Siloam, famously the site where Jesus performed the miracle of healing a blind man as recorded in John 9.

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Adding to Jerusalem’s historical depth, archaeologists also discovered a rare 2,200-year-old golden coin near the City of David, as noted by CBN News. The coin, minted in Egypt under Bernice II, bears symbols of fertility and demonstrates Jerusalem’s prominence during the Hellenistic period, a time often overlooked between the First and Second Temple eras. “This coin proves that Jerusalem was not just a backwater—it was a vital, thriving center of politics and culture,” Israeli tour guide Yoav Rotem said.

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Meanwhile, in Europe, archaeologists in Vence, France, unearthed a 1,500-year-old cathedral and baptistery, reported by the Christian Post. This site, dating potentially all the way back to the fifth century, includes cathedral foundations and a baptismal basin, highlighting early Christian worship practices shortly after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. These finds shed light on how faith communities thrived and maintained spiritual devotion even in turbulent times.

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From the advanced water systems of ancient Jerusalem to the ceremonial baptisms of early medieval France, these discoveries remind believers that God’s hand is evident in human history. They illustrate how divine providence and human ingenuity often intersected to sustain communities and protect life. Each dig, each coin, each ancient structure reminds us that Scripture is alive, real, and rooted in the world God created and continues to work through today.

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

At least two children have died after a tragic shooting took place at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis.

On Wednesday, 17 people people were shot at in the Catholic school, including 14 children as Fox News reported. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed two children, ages 8 and 10, have died. O’Hara also believes at this time that the shooter used three different weapons: a pistol, shotgun and a rifle.

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The incident happened during the school’s mass to celebrate the first week of school, as CNN noted. The suspect shot through the windows at those who were seated in the pews. The suspect later took their own life inside of the back of the church.

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As Fox 9 reported, the suspect was in their and did not have a long record of criminal behavior. Earlier this morning Hennepin Healthcare confirmed 11 patients were at the hospital from their injuries, which included nine children ages 6 to 14.

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President Donald Trump made a statement on Truth Social about the shooting, writing, “I have been fully briefed on the tragic shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The FBI quickly responded and they are on the scene. The White House will continue to monitor this terrible situation. Please join me in praying for everyone involved!”

Vice President J.D. Vance also gave an update on social media about the situation, stating, “We’re at the WH monitoring the situation in Minneapolis. Join all of us in praying for the victims!”

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz further said that he was praying for those impacted by this devastating situation as well.

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I’ve been briefed on a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School and will continue to provide updates as we get more information. The BCA and State Patrol are on scene.

I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence.

Pray for all those who have been injured, lost a loved one or is experiencing the traumatic toll of this event.

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

As the pop culture world erupts at the news that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are now engaged, conservative advocate and commentator Charlie Kirk is sending his well wishes and best advice to the couple.

In an episode of The Charlie Kirk Podcast, Kirk celebrated the news, hoping that this change in Swift and Kelce’s lives would also have them re-evaluate their morals and values.

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“…Reject feminism, submit to your husband, Taylor. You’re not in charge,” Kirk advises. “You got to change your name; if not, you don’t really mean it.”

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Kirk also points out that marriage ultimately changes a person and their future in a way nothing else will.

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“Maybe one of the reasons why Taylor Swift has been liberal over the last couple of years is that she’s not yet married and doesn’t have children,” says Kirk. “I say this as a husband and a father. Having children changes you. Getting married changes you. And I hope that America’s biggest pop star up conservatizing them.”

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Kirk noted that this may be the time when Swift will “de-radicalize” herself from the progressive agenda far from the Christian and conservative values she has edged away from over the last few years.

“Deep down I think Taylor Swift was actually raised as a conservative that has gotten caught up in this kind of metropolitan, liberal stuff, and she doesn’t quite have an attachment to the conservative backbone that she was raised in. But, this might re-attach her in the best possible way.”

Kirk just may be right, and this is the time to pray that through their marriage, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce would come to know the Lord and follow His ways.

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

Kenza Haddock’s journey from a background in Islam to discovering freedom in Jesus is a powerful testimony of resilience, faith and divine transformation. In her conversation on the Directed Life podcast with Kap Chatfield, Haddock shares her personal experiences with narcissistic abuse, trauma and how God guided her into a ministry of healing and counseling.

Haddock explains that narcissistic abuse often manifests as repeated patterns of manipulation, control and emotional harm, typically rooted in pride and a hardened heart. She notes, “The true narcissist does not care about being the best in a godly sense. They want power, wealth and control, regardless of the cost to others.” She identifies two types of narcissists: the overt, power-driven type, like Pharaoh in the Bible, and the covert, manipulative type, who subtly uses guilt and self-pity to influence others.

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Her work in counseling began after she experienced the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. “It was the power of God that got me from there to now,” Haddock recalls. Initially reluctant to enter the counseling field due to financial and personal constraints, she eventually felt an undeniable calling to help trauma victims. This calling led her back to school and, ultimately, to meeting her husband during a prayer session with her pastor.

To pre-order Kenza Haddock’s new book, Unmasking Narcissism, visit .

Haddock emphasizes the role of trauma in the development of narcissistic traits. Individuals who experience unprocessed trauma often internalize the hurt, leading to insecurity, bitterness and a compensatory drive to assert control or superiority. She also highlights how overindulgence or excessive praise of children can contribute to narcissistic tendencies. “If a child grows up thinking they run the show because they are elevated at home, they can struggle with empathy and submission to authority later in life,” Haddock explains.

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Beyond psychology, Haddock stresses the importance of Scripture in understanding and healing from narcissistic abuse. She compares cognitive-behavioral therapy with biblical principles, noting that both guide individuals to align their thoughts with truth. She says, “The Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword. It divides soul and spirit, revealing the intents of the heart.” For victims of narcissistic abuse, repeated meditation on Scripture, coupled with prayer and accountability, can reprogram their thought patterns and renew their minds.

To pre-order Kap Chatfield’s new book, The Power to Prosper, visit .

Haddock also discusses the biological and chemical aspects of abuse, such as the roles of dopamine and oxytocin in creating emotional dependency. Victims of narcissistic abuse often experience a chemical “addiction” to the validation they receive from the narcissist, which reinforces harmful patterns. Healing, she explains, requires patience, spiritual engagement and consistent reinforcement of God’s truth.

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Her work reaches both Christians and non-Christians, though she tailors her approach depending on their spiritual background. For Haddock, the goal is not just recovery, but transformation—helping individuals break free from cycles of abuse, rediscover their identity in God, and experience genuine freedom and purpose.

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

Best-selling author and prophetic voice Jonathan Cahn is once again sounding the alarm with his newest book, “The Avatar.”

In a recent interview with Charisma Media, Cahn shared that behind America’s modern history lies an ancient pattern—one that mirrors biblical archetypes and reveals the spiritual forces influencing our nation’s leaders and culture.

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According to Cahn, the concept of the “avatar” dates back to the ancient world. Pharaohs and kings were often viewed as incarnations or embodiments of their gods. He believes a similar phenomenon is happening today, even if those involved are unaware of it. “Behind every one of the major American leaders of the last 25 years is a prototype that they follow without knowing it,” Cahn said. “These ancient spirits have manifestations among people, and leaders can end up serving as avatars without realizing it.”

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Cahn builds on the themes from his previous books, noting that as America and the West have turned away from God, they have opened the door to ancient pagan influences. These forces, he says, not only shape cultural trends but also play out dramatically in political life.

Cahn points to President Donald Trump as an example. He connects Trump to the biblical figure Jehu, a controversial warrior king who overthrew a corrupt dynasty in ancient Israel. “If you want to understand Trump, understand Jehu,” Cahn explained. “Jehu was divisive, unpredictable, but used by God. He struck down the temple of Baal. In modern times, Roe v. Wade—the American temple of Baal—was struck down, and Trump was more instrumental in that than anyone.”

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He further notes that Jehu’s pattern involves confronting both a sitting king and an ungodly queen figure, which Cahn ties to Trump’s political battles with figures like Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden. “History doesn’t just repeat; it follows patterns,” Cahn says. “The template of Jehu played out in 2016 and 2024.”

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The author also sees prophetic meaning in the assassination attempt on Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania. Drawing from Old Testament priestly rituals, he points out how the anointing of a leader involved blood touching the right ear and right thumb—exactly what happened to Trump when he raised his hand to his wounded ear. To Cahn, this was a sign that God preserved Trump’s life and granted America a reprieve.

This message challenges believers to remain discerning, rooted in Scripture, and aware of the unseen forces shaping our world. Rather than fear, this moment calls for prayer, steadfast faith and a renewed focus on God’s truth as history moves toward its prophetic culmination.

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

Biblical prophecy scholar Mondo Gonzales is drawing attention to events in Israel that he believes could signal the fulfillment of ancient prophecies. Speaking with the Bearded Bible Brothers about the arrival of red heifers in Israel, Gonzales emphasized their significance for the construction of the future Third Temple and the broader prophetic timeline.

Speaking on the red heifer sacrifice, Gonzales says, “It’s directly tied to Numbers 19 and the purification necessary for the Temple. This is huge prophetically,” Gonzales noted.

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According to him, this development has sparked interest among both religious and secular observers. While some view it as a logistical step toward rebuilding the Temple, others see it as a sign that biblical prophecy is unfolding before our eyes. Gonzales cautioned that while no one knows the exact timeline, believers should watch these events with discernment and hope.

Beyond the red heifers, Gonzales connected these temple preparations to other prophetic themes, including the return of the Nephilim—the mysterious beings mentioned in Genesis 6. He suggested that modern technology and genetic manipulation could play a role in end-times deception. “When Jesus talked about the days of Noah, He wasn’t just speaking about wickedness. There are supernatural elements involved that will return in some form,” Gonzales explained.

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He also addressed concerns about global upheaval, wars and moral decline, tying them to Jesus’ warnings in Matthew 24. Rather than fueling fear, Gonzales urged believers to see these as calls to remain steadfast. He paraphrased Jesus’ words, reminding listeners that such events are “the beginning of birth pains,” indicating that God’s plan is moving forward.

Looking ahead, Gonzales believes the intersection of archaeology, current events and prophecy provides believers with both encouragement and urgency. While he did not predict dates, he made it clear that preparations for a Third Temple are no longer theoretical—they are actively underway. “It’s not a matter of if, but when. And when it happens, it will have massive prophetic implications,” he said.

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For Gonzales, the red heifers, talk of the Temple and the spiritual deception of the last days all converge into a single truth: God’s Word is reliable and unfolding.

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

The “Day of Disruption” happened on Tuesday in Israel amid rising tensions with protestors asking for the release of hostages that are still in Gaza.

According to NBC News, those part of the protest held up images of those who were still stuck in Gaza as they asked for an end to the war. As The Guardian noted, thousands of people blocked roadways, calling for Benjamin Netanyahu to end the war. Protestors showed up from the city of Haifa and even inside of the Ben Guiron airport.

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This comes after Israel struck a hospital in Gaza which killed 20 people, with Netanyahu issuing an apology following the incident.

““Israel deeply regrets the tragic mishap that occurred today at the Nasser Hospital in Gaza. Israel values the work of journalists, medical staff, and all civilians. Our war is with Hamas terrorists. Our just goals are defeating Hamas and bringing our hostages home,” Netanyahu said, according to CBN News.

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On X, Pastor Greg Locke responded to this situation, writing, “Hamas kills hundreds of people on purpose and brags about it….no one says a word. Israel kills a handful of people on accident and makes a massive apology….everyone has a meltdown. The selective outrage against Israel is nauseating.”

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In the midst of these challenges, it is a moment to hold Israel in prayer—asking for protection for its people and wisdom for its leaders.

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

A recent prophetic word from Amanda Grace gives a striking warning for the nation, highlighting a season of exposure, upheaval and spiritual realignment.

At the forefront of her word is a warning concerning the Mormon Church. Grace declares, “Watch the Mormon Church… [an] enormous scandal that pales in comparison to the checkered past is set to come out. The Mormons have joined with the Muslim… their root has intertwined and this shall be exposed. Collapse is coming.” This suggests that hidden alliances and doctrinal entanglements are reaching a breaking point, and a moment of reckoning is imminent.

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Grace’s prophetic word also warns of political intrigue and sabotage at the highest levels of government. Specific mention is made of “what has been set in motion to attempt to take down the president, the vice [president] and Marco Rubio… a trifecta shall be caught… however, they shall get close.” Grace’s word also points to internal disruption within Congress, warning that “there are plants… leaders of committees… who are purposefully acting as stumbling blocks to sabotage the accomplishment set in motion. The House is compromised.”

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Underlying these revelations is a broader theme of changing leadership and spiritual alignment. Grace explains, “For this is a time… that a great changing of the guard… the old wine skins are passing away… for the old ranks were not equipped for this new operation that My children are being repositioned to battle.” Believers are being called to step into their roles with boldness, recognizing that they are uniquely equipped for this critical season.

Ultimately, Grace’s word is a call to action: believers are not merely observers but active participants in resisting destructive plans. “Brace yourselves…the kingdom of darkness [has] suffered woundings… when they are wounded, they can be the most dangerous.”

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Prayer, discernment and spiritual readiness are essential tools in navigating this tumultuous season. As the old systems pass away, a new generation is rising—ready to confront the challenges and see God’s plans unfold.

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.

In a new video discussing the rapture, Vlad Savchuk explains his take on this end times event and why he believes it will be different than many Christians have been taught.

Savchuk notes that the rapture has been taught by some to be a secret event, where Jesus quietly takes believers away before the world experiences tribulation. This view, he notes, has been shaped by movies or popular preachers, suggesting a hidden disappearance. He says, however, that Scripture presents a very different picture.

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The word “rapture” does not appear in the Bible, but the concept is clear. In 1 Thessalonians 4:17, it says, “Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and thus we shall always be with the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 also declares, “We shall all be changed in a moment, in a twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.” Savchuk emphasizes, “It’s going to get really loud. The trumpet will sound…not all of us are going to die. Some people are being raised who were Christians. And then we’re quickly being changed in a twinkling of an eye.”

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The Greek word parousia, often translated as “coming,” describes the visible arrival of a king. Savchuk explains, “In the ancient world, when the king approached the city, the citizens would go out to meet him and escort him with celebration inside the city. That’s the picture Scripture gives us of Jesus’ coming.” Savchuk further affirms, “I believe that the rapture of the church and the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ are the same event.”

According to Savchuk, Revelation 20 further clarifies the timing. The “first resurrection” involves believers who refused the mark of the beast: “Blessed and holy is he who takes part in the first resurrection…they shall be priests of God and of Christ and shall reign with Him for a thousand years.” This, he says, demonstrates that resurrection and rapture happen after tribulation, not before. “There is no resurrection taking place during a rapture…It’s just not in the Bible.”

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Savchuk further says, “Pre-tribulation secret rapture is not found in the Bible’s plain teaching…It is clearly not supported by the Bible because the Bible makes it very clear: Jesus’ return will be one. There will be one resurrection of the dead for Christians.”

Scripture also consistently shows God preserves His people within trials rather than removing them. “Noah was preserved during the flood…Lot wasn’t removed from the planet, but he was relocated to safety just before the judgment fell…Rahab was protected while being in the midst of Jericho,” Savchuk says. Similarly, Revelation 3:10 promises that God will keep us safe during trials, not whisk us away: “Because you have kept My command to persevere, I will keep you from the hour of trial.”

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The real hope for believers, the, lies in endurance and the glorious return of Jesus, not in escape. As Savchuk concludes, “Instead of anchoring your hope in escape, let’s anchor our faith in faithfulness to Jesus, no matter what comes, trusting He will return as He promised, once in glory for all to see.”

Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.