This Satanic Ritual Is Exploding in American Popularity

There is no sugarcoating this: America is in deep, deep spiritual darkness. If she continues down this track of satanic and demonic practice, she will see the Lord’s hand removed completely, and suffer greatly for it.

Need proof of the decline in America? Look no further than a recent piece in Cosmopolitan magazine which defends and promotes this abhorrent satanic ritual.

Working in conjunction with The Satanic Temple, Cosmo promotes TST’s abortion ritual to their millions of followers. Abortion itself is not new to the U.S., but performing it by way of satanic ritual in one’s own home is taking an already deadly practice and making it worse.

The outlet states, “At first glance, The Satanic Temple’s new telehealth venture, named after Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito Jr.’s mom, seems like a social experiment in trolling. But as Cosmo reports, the fully credentialed clinic is serving real patients and has a real chance of breaking the religious right’s grip on abortion law.”

Never mind the glorification of child sacrifice to Baal. Never mind the blood-red theme of the webpage that turns “T’s” upside-down when you scroll so they resemble inverted crosses. Never mind the exposure of a satanic ritual to millions of women around the world. This article reads as if it were written by Satan himself.

Attacking the “religious right” as though TST are the ardent defenders of freedom in America, Cosmo makes the same case that Satan does in deceiving people about the mission of this group really is.

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

“Never mind that Satanists don’t actually worship the devil. There are no ritual sacrifices or quests for supernatural powers at TST. In reality, Satanism is a nontheistic faith in which TST’s roughly 1.5 million global members view Satan more like a mascot, one depicted not as a dark, omniscient deity but as a literary character—a venerable symbol of rebellion, rational inquiry, personal sovereignty, and resistance against tyranny. Followers champion science, religious diversity, and the separation of church and state, says Chalice Blythe, an ordained minister of Satan and the group’s spokesperson for reproductive rights.”

These are the exact same tenets being pushed by the radical, Marxist left.

Articles such as this are causing TST to grow in popularity in America, as radical groups who support the transgender ideology have already adopted many of their principles.

Still don’t believe me? Look at the trans-satanic designer that Target hired which caused a large backlash against the retailer. Yet Cosmo’s article will reach just as many, and convince them that Satanism really isn’t that bad, that Satanists are merely fighting against oppressors and those who want to take away women’s rights.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

While giving a step-by-step guide in what to do in the article, the focus of the ritual is clear: oneself.

Using the same tactic that worked against Adam and Eve, Satan still deceives humans by appealing to their sense of pride and narcissism.

It is not cliché to say that America needs to corporately repent of her sins against God, but not enough Christian leaders are saying it. The church needs to stand up and trust in the power of God to effect change, not please the ears of people who want to avoid confrontation.

Jesus confronted sin and death and won. Christians have that same power given to them by the Holy Spirit. It is time to use it to fight this very real spiritual war taking place. Lives are literally at stake if they do not.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Target Doubles Down On Christmas ‘Pride’ Campaign

If you thought Target had learned the lesson that many of their shoppers do not view items like tuck-friendly swimwear for kids as appropriate, think again.

In 2023, Target lost billions from the backlash their ‘Pride’ collection caused and the company’s relationship with Abprallen and satanic-themed items, much of which was aimed at children.

The year is not over yet, and the retail giant thought it would be a good idea to ring in the Christmas season with another ‘Pride’ campaign where they deck the halls in transgender flag colors.

When shoppers enter the seasonal aisles, they are greeted by pride flag waving Santas and transgender-themed nutcrackers who come in white and black and feature purple bears and a pride flag, the higher tier model costing $63.00 and comes with a staff with a heart on it saying “Love is Love.”

Target includes statements on these items, such as this description on the “Love is Love” speech-bubble ornament: “Whether you’re an ally, a member of the LGBTQ community or simply someone who believes in love and equality for all, this ornament is the perfect way to showcase your support during the festive season. With its vibrant colors and eye-catching design, this ‘Love is Love’ holiday ornament is sure to make a statement on your tree or as a gift to a loved one. Celebrate the season with love and pride, and show the world that love truly knows no bounds.”

Not a single mention of Christmas, or Christ. But that is the point.

Some have been saying for years now that the goal of Satan is to move our ever-increasingly secular society away from any references of Jesus Christ. And he has succeeded mightily in accomplishing that goal in America.

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

This entire charade of dedicating the month of June to pride is merely cover for the real goal of saturating American culture in this pagan ideology 24/7, and what more proof do you need than the attempt at making Christmas ‘Pride’ now?

Target spokesperson Kayla Castaneda affirmed this in June when she said, “Our focus now is on moving forward with our continuing commitment to the LGBTQIA community and standing with them as we celebrate Pride month and throughout the year.”

If you are part of the population who just wants it to stop and are sick of hearing about it, too bad. Because “they” are going to cram this belief system down our cultural throats until it is the dominant belief system in America, and the world.

The Christian church is battling this takeover itself, with apostate congregations taking down crosses and replacing them with pride flags. No longer do they pray to Jesus and read the Bible, but instead they pray to drag queens and read the works of radical activists.

Amid all of this culture shock with how quickly things have deteriorated over the last few years, it was all warned about, and the signs were there that this day of lawlessness would come.

The apostle Paul warns believers in 2 Thessalonians chapter 2 that there will be a great falling away from the ideals and principles of God. That there has to be a falling away from Him who created us to pave the way for the revealing of the “man of sin.”

This revelation of the man of sin, or the Antichrist, has not come yet, but we are undoubtedly seeing the preparation for his arrival take place in the world today.

In the meantime, Christians are to continue sharing the real reason for the season, the birth of the Lord and Savior of earth, Jesus Christ. Answering His call to the Great Commission is the strategy that will win souls away from the devil and grow the kingdom of God.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Hundreds in Gaza Report Jesus Appearing to Them in Dreams

In the war-torn region of Gaza, a remarkable story is unfolding, echoing the biblical prophecies of the end times. According to Christian professor Michael Licona, more than 200 Muslim men have experienced life-altering visions of Jesus in their dreams, leading them to embrace Christianity.

Licona, a New Testament Studies professor at Houston Christian University, shared this extraordinary account through a Facebook post:

Quoting a report from underground Christian ministries in the Middle East, Licona revealed, “Last night, Jesus appeared to more than 200 of them in their dreams! They have come back to us to learn more from God’s Word and are asking how to follow Jesus.”

This miraculous event parallels the biblical accounts of visions and dreams during the end times. Acts 2:17 says: “In the last days it shall be,’ God declares, ‘that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.'”

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

These conversions are not isolated incidents, as similar reports surfaced before the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack. Assemblies of God missionary Dick Brogden emphasized the significance of dreams, stating, “Dreams are contributing to revelation … the process of evangelism and conversion.”

These spiritual events serve as a reminder of the biblical teachings about the end times. In Matthew 24:42, Jesus instructs, “Watch, therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord will come.”

As believers, it is crucial to remain vigilant and faithful, sharing the message of salvation through Jesus. Despite the ongoing conflict, the transformative power of these dreams demonstrates that God’s grace, love and mercy can reach even the most challenging circumstances.

Licona, expressing his perspective on the Israel-Hamas conflict, urged prayers for the war’s end and the liberation of Palestinians from the oppressive influence of Hamas. This aligns with the Christian call to seek peace even with those who do not believe, as stated in Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as much as it depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”

In times of uncertainty, these visions serve as a beacon of hope, reinforcing our faith in the redemptive power of Christ. As we navigate the complexities of the end times, we can draw inspiration from these conversions and continue to share the love and teachings of Jesus.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Prophet Charlie Shamp Shares Vision of 46th President With ‘Feet Made of Clay’

As the world is consumed by wars and rumors of more wars going through what appear to be birthing pains, Christians take note: the Lord said these things would be happening, and that it would get worse.

Yet in the darkness of a world that is rejecting God in new ways each day, there is a promise of hope and an outpouring of God that is to wash across the barren earth.

Acts 2 tells of the words spoken by the prophet Joel, saying that we can expect amazing revelations given by the power of the Holy Spirit to those living through these times where rejection of our Maker is increasing in frequency and severity.

According to the Scripture, “‘In the last days it shall be,’ says God, ‘that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.”

Prophet Charlie Shamp, Co-Founder and President of Destiny Encounters International, shared a prophetic vision the Lord gave him regarding the leadership of the United States who made the declaration, “America is a nation of Pride.”

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

“I was taken in a prophetic vision where I saw the 46th president of the United States. I observed with keen interest that this man’s feet were not made of sturdy flesh and bone, but rather, they were composed of fragile clay.

“Without warning, a rock, seemingly hurled by an unseen force, struck his clay feet with such force that it shattered the delicate balance he had maintained. The impact was so great that he was instantly toppled, falling to the ground in a cloud of dust and debris.

“Then, the Spirit of the Lord spoke, His voice resonating like a thunderclap in the silence that followed the president’s fall. He declared with an authority that was both awe-inspiring and terrifying, ‘The man who stood tall and proud before you will fall and will not rise a second time. His reign is at an end.’

“The Spirit continued, His voice filled with a stern warning, ‘I am removing him due to his pride, for pride precedes a fall.’ The vision ended as abruptly as it had begun, leaving behind a clear message of divine intervention at hand.

As with all things, Christians should abide by Paul’s instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21: “Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Examine all things. Firmly hold onto what is good.”

What would the fulfillment of such a prophecy bring with it in America? Time will tell, but in the meantime, God is in control of today and the coming trials. In that, we can take peace and solace until the Lord returns for His people.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Church of England Facing Potential Disestablishment

In recent developments across the pond, a bill in the U.K. is stirring the pot, aiming to disestablish the Church of England. An atheist group in the U.S., the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), is praising this move, claiming it as a step toward a more secular democracy. The bill, championed by Liberal Democrat Paul Scriven, challenges the historic ties between the church and the state, suggesting it’s time for a change.

For some, the disestablishment is seen as progress, a move away from what they perceive as the Church of England imposing its doctrines on the majority. The FFRF applauds this shift, highlighting recent concerns over religious inclusion at King Charles III’s coronation. The debate gains momentum as the bill heads to Parliament on Dec. 6.

Evangelist Ray Comfort, renowned for his outspoken evangelism, delved into the Christian imagery woven into the recent coronation of King Charles III in an exclusive Charisma News interview prior to the event. Comfort emphasized the significance of England’s Christian heritage, particularly reflected in the monarch’s ceremony. The evangelist highlighted the symbolic act of the king kneeling before and kissing the Bible, a centuries-old tradition that echoes the nation’s historical Christian roots.

Comfort underscored the importance of preserving these traditions, arguing that they serve as a powerful reminder of England’s deep-seated Christian identity. As the debate over the potential disestablishment of the Church of England unfolds, Comfort’s insights contribute to the broader conversation about the role of faith in the nation’s cultural and historical fabric.

“When Charles is crowned on May 6th, he’s going to reach out his hand and lay it on a Bible and swear to uphold the biblical truth of salvation by grace, through faith,” Comfort explains.

“He’s going to be the defender of the faith. He’s going to carry an orb…it’s a golden globe with diamonds and pearly all over it. [It has] a cross on the top, and it’s symbolic of Jesus Christ’s reign over the whole earth. He’s going to hold a scepter, as David held and as Solomon held.

“He’s going to be anointed with oil, there’s all sorts of things…and it’s going to be witnessed by literally hundreds of millions around the world,” says Comfort.

As we observe these discussions, it’s essential for Christians to reflect on the potential impact on biblical values. In moments like these, we are reminded of the Bible’s warnings about the falling away from faith. The apostle Paul, in 2 Timothy 4:3-4, speaks of a time when people will turn away from sound doctrine, preferring teachings that align with their desires. The potential disestablishment prompts us to ponder whether this is a symptom of a broader shift away from biblical principles around the world.

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

The proposed separation challenges the long-standing privilege of the Church of England in the House of Lords and the recognition of King Charles as the official “Defender of the Faith.” While some argue it’s a necessary step to modernize, others question whether this will undermine the faith foundation that has been part of the nation’s history.

As Christians, we must remember that our trust is in Jesus, regardless of the changes around us. In Hebrews 13:8, the Bible assures us that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” While institutions may evolve, God’s unchanging truth remains a steadfast anchor for believers.

Amid debates and potential shifts, our focus should be on running toward Jesus, not away from Him. The challenges faced by the Church of England invite us to reaffirm our commitment to Christ and His teachings. The uncertainties in the world today find their answer in the unchanging love and truth found in Jesus Christ.

As discussions unfold about the potential disestablishment of the Church of England, we must remember the enduring nature of our faith. While the world may change, Jesus remains our constant guide. As Christians, let us continue to embrace the timeless truths of the gospel in the midst of shifting tides.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Unveiling Dark Secrets: Are You Playing with Spiritual Fire?

In a recent Charisma News interview with Pastor Mike Shreve, the dangers of engaging in practices like astral projection and mantra chanting are brought to light from a Christian perspective based on specific chapters in the Bible.

It is essential for Christians to understand the spiritual risks associated with these activities and how they conflict with biblical teachings.

Astral Projection: A Deceptive Spiritual Realm

Pastor Shreve shared his personal experience with astral projection during his time as a yoga teacher. He described spending long hours in meditation, chanting mantras and attempting to explore the supernatural world. He explained that he had left his physical body and entered a spiritual realm.

This experience led him to a profound realization: there is a realm that exists between the heavens and Earth, a realm never explicitly addressed in Scripture. This realm, often overlooked, is described as the second heaven. The Bible explicitly refers to Satan as the “prince of the power of the air.” This implies that Satan operates in a spiritual realm that is subtly higher than the Earth’s physical atmosphere. Any pursuit of supernatural experiences outside of Christ opens the door to satanically inspired deceptions.

In Pastor Shreve’s understanding, this second heaven is a domain dominated by angelic and satanic activity. It is a realm where spiritual battles unfold, and demonic influence is pervasive. Attempting to penetrate this supernatural world through practices like astral projection inevitably leads to deception, as the realm is ruled by Satan.

Mantra Chanting: A Misguided Path

Chanting mantras is another practice that appears harmless on the surface to many who practice it. However, Pastor Shreve draws a parallel between mantra chanting and the Bible’s warning against “vain repetitions.” In Matthew 6:7, Jesus specifically cautioned against using empty, repetitive words in prayer, as the heathen do.

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

The core of the issue with mantra chanting is the belief that it can control an impersonal force or power. This practice treats God as if He were a machine, responding to the right code or incantation. However, the Bible teaches that God is a personal being, not a force to be manipulated.

When we pray and communicate with God, it should be a dynamic, creative expression of our thoughts, needs and worship. God is not swayed by monotonous repetition; He desires a genuine, personal connection with His children.

The Biblical Way: A Personal Encounter with God

Pastor Shreve emphasizes that rather than attempting to penetrate the supernatural through astral projection or manipulate divine forces through mantra chanting, Christians have a unique and true path to God.

When one is born again in Christ, the Holy Spirit enters their heart, bridging the gap between humanity and divinity. God’s longing for a personal relationship with humanity is evident, as stated in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” This highlights His unwavering love and desire for an intimate connection with us.

The dangers of astral projection and mantra chanting are clear when viewed through the lens of biblical truth. These practices can lead to spiritual deception and undermine the unique, personal relationship Christians have with the living God through Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Bible warns against engaging in occult practices and emphasizes the importance of seeking God in the way He intended, through faith in Jesus Christ.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Arizona Preacher Shot in Head While Sharing the Gospel

In the heart of Glendale, Arizona, the proclamation of the gospel faced an unforeseen challenge when Hans Schmidt, a 26-year-old military medic and committed Christian, was shot in the head while sharing his faith on a street corner.

The incident unfolded on Wednesday, Nov. 15, leaving Schmidt in critical condition and a community grappling with the senselessness of this violent act.

As we unravel the details of this tragic event, it is paramount for us, as Christians, to turn to the Scriptures for guidance and solace. In times of persecution, our faith undergoes scrutiny, yet the Bible assures us of God’s enduring presence and promises.

Schmidt’s response to the Great Commission exemplifies the courage and conviction necessary to share the gospel, even in the face of hostility. The apostle Paul, no stranger to trials for preaching Christ’s message, conveyed to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:12: “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” This revelation serves as a poignant reminder that persecution is not an anomaly but an anticipated aspect of a life devoted to Christ.

The incident is a stark reminder of the escalating animosity toward those who openly profess their Christian faith. Witnessing this unfortunate event, it is crucial to discern the signs of the times. In Matthew 24:9-10, Jesus cautioned, “Then they will hand you over to be persecuted and will kill you. And you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. Then many will fall away, and betray one another, and hate one another.” These words echo the current climate, emphasizing the urgency for believers to stand resolute in their faith despite the challenges that may arise.

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

In the midst of the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerges. Victory Chapel, where Hans Schmidt served as the outreach director, provides an update on his condition, stating that the family is encouraged by signs of improvement. As a community, let us unite in prayer for Hans’ complete recovery and for strength for his family during this trying time.

Navigating a world increasingly opposed to the message of Christ, let us not be disheartened. Instead, let this incident galvanize the response among Christians. The Great Commission, as given by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20, implores us to “go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you.” This mandate remains unwavering, even in the face of persecution.

Let us join in prayer for Hans Schmidt’s recovery and for the restoration of our communities. May this incident inspire a renewed commitment to sharing the love of Christ in America and around the world, even in the presence of opposition. As we traverse these challenging times, may our faith stand firm, anchored in the promises of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Christ the Redeemer Illuminated for Taylor Swift’s Tour Raises Questions

The recent illumination of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro to celebrate Taylor Swift’s tour has ignited discussions about the appropriateness of using a symbol of Jesus Christ for secular purposes.

While the initiative aimed to bring joy to fans and coincide with the World Day of the Poor (by collecting donations of food and water for the needy), it raises questions about the alignment of such practices with biblical teachings on the sanctity and holiness of God.

One key consideration is the nature of Taylor Swift’s music, which has been known to incorporate new age and occult themes in her music videos. The Bible warns against participating in practices contrary to God’s holiness and calls believers to focus on what is pure, lovely and praiseworthy (see Phil. 4:8). Using a statue of Jesus Christ to celebrate an artist known for such themes raises concerns about whether it honors the Lord who sacrificed His life for mankind’s sins.

The Bible also cautions against idolatry, emphasizing that believers should worship the one true God. Using Christ the Redeemer, a symbol of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, to project imagery from secular songs may be perceived as blurring the lines between sacred and secular, potentially compromising the reverence due to God.

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

Furthermore, the Bible encourages believers not to conform to the patterns of the world but to be transformed in Jesus Christ (Rom. 12:2). While cultural engagement is important, the question arises: Does projecting secular imagery onto a religious monument align with the biblical call to live as lights in the world (Matt. 5:14)? Christians are prompted to reflect on how such practices contribute to the broader cultural narrative and whether they uphold the distinctive values of the Christian faith.

As Swift’s tour continues, the celebration extends to landmarks like Rio’s giant Ferris wheel, featuring lyrics from her hits, which none have taken issue with thus far. While creative and engaging for fans, the broader Christian community may grapple with the tension between cultural engagement and maintaining a commitment to honor and reflect the holiness of God in actions and choices.

The controversy surrounding the illumination of Christ the Redeemer invites Christians to consider the implications of using sacred symbols for secular celebrations. The debate calls for a thoughtful exploration of how cultural engagement aligns with biblical principles, emphasizing the need for discernment and a commitment to uphold the sanctity of God in all aspects of life.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Christmas Canceled in Bethlehem?

In an unprecedented move, Bethlehem’s annual Christmas display has been canceled by Palestinian authorities “in honor of Hamas martyrs” amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel.

The Bethlehem Municipality officially announced plans to forego the traditional Christmas tree and festive decorations in Manger Square, a site adorned with Christmas cheer since the inception of modern celebrations of the season.

This marks the first instance since 1988, during the first Intifada, that the iconic birthplace of Jesus Christ will be devoid of Christmas decorations.

Officials cited solidarity with their compatriots in Gaza and reverence for the fallen as the reasons behind scrapping the usual plans. While the traditional Christmas mass and prayers will proceed, the city will lack its customary Christmas tree and festive lights.

Additional plans for the festive period are anticipated to be disclosed in the coming days.

“The reason is the general situation in Palestine; people are not really into any celebration, they are sad, angry and upset,” a spokesperson explained. “Our people in Gaza are being massacred and killed in cold blood. Therefore, it is not appropriate at all to have such festivities while there is a massacre happening in Gaza and attacks in the West Bank.”

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

This year, Bethlehem, typically a bustling tourist destination in the lead-up to Christmas, seeks to convey a message of condolence and mourning rather than celebration. Pilgrims and tourists, who usually flock to Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity, will find a quieter atmosphere this year.

The Church of the Nativity, recognized as the birthplace of Jesus and a UNESCO World Heritage site, holds profound religious significance for Christians worldwide. Originally associated with Jesus since the fourth century AD, the existing church dates back to the sixth century AD.

Since the initiation of Hamas’ attack on Israel and the ensuing war, Bethlehem has experienced a marked decrease in its usual Christmas cheer. The region has remained quieter than usual, reflecting the somber mood that has settled over the town.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas erupted on Oct. 7, triggered by the terrorist group’s breaking of the ceasefire in place that resulted in the death of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of at least 240 individuals.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.




Conservative Titans, and the World, Clash Over Israel

The war taking place between Israel and the Iran-backed terrorist group Hamas has split the world in two: those for Israel and those against.

The often-quoted quip, “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be freed,” is not so much a pro-Palestine saying, but one that pushes for the eradication of the nation of Israel.

Even conservative circles have become split by the pro-or-not stance for Israel.

Recently, conservative commentators Ben Shapiro and Candace Owens, both of The Daily Wire, have been at each other’s throats over their respective stances on Israel.

Shapiro, an Orthodox Jew, is fully behind U.S. support of Israel and believes that the civilian losses occurring are an acceptable price to pay for the eradication of Hamas. He regularly points out that the Palestinians elected Hamas in to power, and they will be free of the terror organization once Israel defeats them.

Owens on the other hand is part of the growing “America First” movement which runs parallel to Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” following. Owens is against sending money, aid or military to foreign countries and their conflicts that have nothing to do with the U.S.

These opposing positions have led to furious online back-and-forth’s between the two, with a large part of X (formerly Twitter) watching to see how this plays out.

So why is the reluctance for many Americans to support Israel such a big thing? Is it simply because they want to fix things at home first? Or is there a deeper reason?

While many Americans are burned out on the massive amounts of unchecked funding that went to the war in Ukraine for the past year-and-a-half, many Christians, but sadly not all, view Israel as a much different story.

Get your FREE CHARISMA NEWSLETTERS today! Stay up-to-date with current issues, Holy Spirit news, Christian teachings, Charisma videos & more!

Christian leaders such as Pastors John Hagee, Jentezen Franklin, Perry Stone, Greg Locke, Jack Hibbs and many others have proclaimed their unflinching support for Israel, and back their stances up with the Bible.

Yet there are just as many who claim to be a follower of Christ who do not believe that the country of Israel and its citizens are the nation of Israel described in the Bible. Many of these people are a part of the America First movement, and do not want America involved in the Israel-Hamas war whatsoever and cannot fathom why so many Christians are “obsessed” with the country.

To put it plainly, it is because of what the Word of God says. The covenant between Abraham and God in Genesis chapter 12 lays it out very plainly in God’s own words: “I will bless them who bless you, and curse him who curses you.”

Cursed by God should be reason enough to support Israel, but for many it is not. Perhaps they do not believe that the covenant is still in place, a folly of biblical proportions.

Prophecies from the Bible are still coming to fruition, and until the end of the age, God’s hand of protection will be over the nation of Israel. There will be those who revolt against her, and by doing so, they revolt against God.

Yet even with biblical prophecies over centuries, Christians and Jews have not had a great relationship. It was not until the third resurrection of the nation of Israel in 1948 that Christians really took notice, and talk of the end times coming to fruition began to dominate Christian media.

Since this third iteration of the nation of Israel, America has stood by her and supported her. Perhaps they were not always in agreement and did not see eye to eye in a host of matters, but they remained allies.

In these days that many believe are the lead up to the Great Tribulation, it is imperative, according to the Word of God, that America stand with Israel, even as the world turns against her. Note that standing with and supporting do not entail blindly following and being silent should things cross a line. As the old saying goes: Your best friends are the ones who tell you want you need to hear, not what you want to hear.

There is nothing wrong with being a patriot in America and caring deeply about righting the ship at home, because Lord knows the country needs it. But for this to happen, God must be placed first, not America. The blessing over this country through the years is because she was founded on God’s principles and design and honored Him, even while being an imperfect nation.

God was and is the pillar that keeps America held high. To turn against Him, as many in the country have done, and His people, would be a devastating blow to America, should He remove His hand of blessing and protection from the nation.

If somebody wants to put America first, then understand that means putting God first and abiding by His Word, His principles and His design for humanity.

Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.