In a recent Instagram Live session, Bishop Brandon B. Porter, a respected figure within the Pentecostal Christian community, addressed the ongoing conflict surrounding Bishop Derrick Hutchins’ church. The discussion was sparked by a call from Pastor D, who happens to be Bishop Hutchins’ brother. However, it was Bishop Hutchins Jr. who took to Instagram Live to express his grievances about a disagreement with his uncle regarding the church. During the enlightening live session, Bishop Porter shed light on the situation and provided an explanation based on documented evidence left behind by Bishop Hutchinson Sr., which entrusted the church to the brother instead of the son.

As Charisma News reported, Bishop Hutchins Sr. passed away in December of 2022 at the age of 65.

Throughout the conversation, Bishop Porter subtly hinted that the son had insinuated political motivations behind his uncle’s support, coinciding with the upcoming COGIC elections. Despite the strained relationship between the son and the brother, Bishop Porter expressed his love for both individuals and acknowledged their differences.

Bishop Porter clarified that his primary intention in visiting the church was to mediate and attentively listen to both sides, rather than imposing his own judgment on the matter. Unfortunately, the situation has escalated to the point of a court case, which has deepened the complexities of the conflict. Bishop Porter brought up the important matter of a key man policy, particularly in relation to the church mortgage. He mentioned that, if he were to pass away today, Pastor J. Drew Sheard would assume the pastoral role, with the national church organization assuming control. This decision was made because his own sons are not yet prepared to shoulder such a significant responsibility.

During the church meeting, the son chose to share the ongoing situation with his father’s church on Instagram Live. Bishop Porter emphasized the importance of credibility and various other qualities required to effectively run a church. He acknowledged that Bishop Hutchins Sr. had not anticipated his untimely passing and had plans for retirement rather than a sudden departure. In light of this, Bishop Porter called for unity among family members to honor and preserve Bishop Derrick Hutchins Sr.’s legacy. He shared a personal moment when his own son advised him to release the burden of the fight, as it was no longer his to bear. This emotional revelation prompted Bishop Porter to declare that he would no longer engage in discussions about the matter.

YouTube personality King Jives uploaded a video featuring Bishop Brandon Porter’s poignant live session. In the video, Bishop Porter expressed his disappointment at witnessing the division within Bishop Hutchins Sr.’s family and the potential impact on his church and legacy. He urged Bishop Hutchins Jr. to exercise patience and recognize that his father had taken care of them both. Bishop Porter also revealed that the church’s financial stability was maintained through wise investments made by Bishop Hutchins Sr., including several leases generating a minimum monthly income of $25,000 before tithes and offerings.

During this challenging situation, our thoughts and prayers are with the church congregation as they navigate through the conflicts and uncertainties. We hope that the right decisions will be made to protect the church and its members.

Bishop Porter acknowledged that the Instagram Live session conducted by Hutchins Jr. had transformed into a heated argument, emphasizing the necessity for a more constructive and respectful approach to resolving the conflicts at hand.

By the conclusion of the live session, Bishop Porter made it evident that, based on the documentation left behind by Bishop Hutchins Sr., he believes that the church should be under the leadership of the brother at this time. However, he also subtly implied that the son should further develop his character and credibility before assuming such a significant role.

Finally, Bishop Porter emphasized the deep understanding that Bishop Hutchins Sr. had of his own son, drawing a parallel to his own understanding of his son.

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

The two things that have been probably fought against the most in the last 30 years in the body of Christ are health and wealth. Healing and finances. Many people call it the “health and wealth” gospel. I have some good news for you: Jesus didn’t die for the sickness and poverty gospel.

If the enemy can keep you sick and poor, he’s going to severely limit your destiny.

Somehow Christians are even partnering with the idea that God made them sick to make them more like Jesus.

Jesus wasn’t sick. It’s the Holy Spirit’s job to make you more like Jesus, not sickness. He paid for it all. He didn’t leave one thing out.

There are two errors Christians often see concerning health and wealth. The first error many in the church world believe is that poverty is a spiritual value. Some say that it’s good to be poor and that lack is a good thing because it keeps you dependent upon Jesus.

Well, if poverty is so spiritual why does the Bible tell us to give to the poor? Wouldn’t that just ruin their spirituality?

I tell you what, the poorest way to help the poor is to be poor.

I don’t want anyone to feel bad about your current financial situation, but if you’re partnering with lack, you’re never going to raise your eyes up to see what Jesus paid for on the cross.

Sometimes we need to pull some weeds before we can plant good seeds.

Think about it…

• It’s ironic that the monks who take a vow of poverty live off the wealth of other people.
• God has called each one of us to be stewards. To be a steward, you’re going to have to have something to steward.
• The only people praised with “well done good and faithful servant” before they died were investors who stewarded their money and increased it.
• If poverty is from God, why did the Lord bless Isaac so that he became rich and continued to grow richer until he became very wealthy (Gen. 26:12-13)? It wasn’t the devil who prospered him, it was God.
• If poverty is so spiritual, why are we told to pray “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven?” There’s no poverty in heaven. There’s never been a recession in heaven. There are no 30,000-year mortgages on the mansions in heaven. God has an abundance. The enemy has a budget.
• If money’s so bad for us why doesn’t Satan just pour it on Christians and watch them backslide into hell?
• If money is so bad why does Satan take it away from Job and at the end of the book, why does God reward him with a double portion?
• Why is the good man the one who leaves an inheritance to his children’s children?

Think about it. We are told to “Seek first the kingdom of God.” Every religious person on the planet loves the person who seeks first the kingdom, but when the next part of that verse happens, “and all these things will be added…” well, that might be getting a little too much.

So, how much is too much?

Whatever amount replaces trust in God.

Religion doesn’t mind the person who is a million dollars in debt, or even getting him debt free, but if they go a million dollars in the positive, you’re going to be getting some complaints.

Material possessions are not a sign of God’s blessings unless they are. There are actually a whole bunch of times in the Bible where someone’s material possessions were actually a sign of blessing right from God’s hand.

How about Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph and Solomon? God was the direct cause of their blessing.

Here’s what that means for you. It’s not your job to be the prosperity police, trying to figure out who has too much.

The pressure’s off. You don’t get to judge another man or woman’s harvest when you don’t know what kind of seed they have planted.

Loving God doesn’t mean you have to be broke. Having money doesn’t mean you’re necessarily godly. Just ask the mafia.

Here’s the deal with money—money is to the natural realm what the anointing is to the spiritual realm. It’s just a way to get things done.

Guys, we have got to get this biblical view of money. It’s a tool to accomplish kingdom purposes.

Money is a tool.

It is not a tool to get inflated with. It just means that you’re able to be trusted with more resources for the King and his kingdom.

Let’s be careful to do some thorough weeding in our beliefs so that the soil is prepared for the seeds God wants to help you plant.

If God can get money through you, He’ll get money to you… with plenty left over.

Jim Baker is the Senior Leader and Pastor at Zion Christian Fellowship in Powell, Ohio. He was led by the Lord to go into finance in 2011 and has helped others utilize biblical principles to experience financial breakthrough in their lives. Baker is now committed to a movement of kingdom wealth-builders who understand that prosperity has a purpose.

Two adults and 11 children, who belonged to the youth group of Anchor Church in Houston, Texas, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to God after narrowly escaping a van that burst into flames. The van was carrying them to a summer camp in Kerrville, Texas, when the incident occurred on I-610 at Wayside.

Jordin Williams, mother of two of the camp attendees, emphasized the role of faith in their miraculous escape: “We believed and fervently prayed for the safety of those kids,” she revealed in an interview with KHOU 11.

The journey had just begun after the campers boarded the van at Deer Park High School when the fire erupted. The driver of the van was the church’s youth pastor, accompanied by his mother, who had previously worked as a school bus driver. Williams disclosed that some church members had noticed an unfamiliar smell in the van shortly before the flames engulfed it. However, they were initially unaware that the smell originated from their own vehicle. Recounting the incident, Williams shared, “He mentioned that it smelled like barbecue or something burning. They never thought it could be their van.”

Fortunately, all the occupants managed to evacuate the van unharmed, ensuring a safe outcome for everyone. Eventually, the campers were able to continue their journey and reach their destination without further incident.

The Houston Fire Department determined that the fire in the van resulted from an electrical issue. Officials also issued a stern warning regarding the dangers of hot car deaths, particularly concerning children, during the summer months. They stress the importance of never leaving children unattended in parked vehicles.

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

In a recent conversation between Pastor Mike Signorelli and Apostle Alexander Pagani, the intriguing realm of mythology, demigods and the supernatural strength of the mysterious Nephilim were explored from a biblical perspective.

• Myth vs. Fable

The differentiation between myth and fable was a crucial starting point. While fables are regarded as embellished stories, mythology is seen as a vehicle for conveying exaggerated truths. By discerning the underlying truths within myths, believers can gain deeper insights into spiritual realities that transcend literal interpretations.

• Parallels Between Samson and Demigods

One intriguing parallel that emerged was between the Bible figure Samson and the demigods of Greek mythology. Samson, renowned for his supernatural strength, shares commonalities with these demigods. Some Christians view the Nephilim, the offspring of the “sons of God” and human women mentioned in the Bible, as akin to demigods. This perspective introduces the possibility of powerful beings with a divine-human lineage, adding a unique dimension to the understanding of supernatural strength.

• Advanced Construction Techniques and Supernatural Influence

The remarkable construction techniques of ancient civilizations have long puzzled scholars and archaeologists. The construction of massive stone structures and intricate craftsmanship displayed a level of skill that seemed beyond human capabilities. Pagani and Signorelli put forth the idea that fallen sons of God or other supernatural entities imparted advanced knowledge to these ancient civilizations. The Anunnaki, often associated with divine or extraterrestrial beings, are occasionally referenced as potential sources of advanced technological insights.

• Interpretive Principles: Laws of First Mentions and Only Mentions

Pagani shared two interpretive principles that offer deeper understanding. The law of first mentions establishes a pattern for subsequent occurrences in Scripture. Samson’s story serves as a template for comprehending similar accounts throughout the Bible. Additionally, the law of only mentions raises intriguing questions. Why is Samson’s story the only one dedicated to a man endowed with such exceptional strength? By exploring these interpretive principles, patterns and nuances within the biblical narrative can be uncovered.

• Fallen Angels and Influence on World Leaders

In considering the influence of fallen angels, Pagani believes they manipulate and exert influence over world leaders and individuals in positions of authority. While caution is advised when approaching personal claims of possession by fallen angels, the focus is primarily on their engagement with individuals in positions of power rather than ordinary individuals. The Bible provides examples such as Satan forcefully entering Judas, highlighting the potential influence of fallen angels on those in positions of authority.

These insights invite believers to seek a deeper understanding of spiritual truths and the interplay between supernatural beings and human affairs. By delving into these themes, believers engage in thought-provoking theological contemplation and gain a richer perspective on mythology, demigods and supernatural strength from a biblical point of view. It encourages a journey of exploration and reflection, inviting believers to expand their understanding of the unseen realm and its interaction with the human experience.

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

In a recent video, ministry leader Perry Stone shared a profound message about Satan, based on a dream God had given him.

This dream was meant to expose the truth about Satan by delving into the Scriptures. It is crucial to establish a biblical foundation before exploring the dream’s significance.

To understand Satan, it is important to debunk the incorrect images people have developed over the years. One of the earliest depictions of Satan is as a serpent in the Garden of Eden, which became his emblem throughout Scripture. Additionally, Isaiah 14:12 reveals that Satan is a fallen angel, specifically referred to as Lucifer, the son of the morning. Further insight into his angelic position before the fall can be found in Ezekiel 28, where he is described as the anointed cherub.

Scripture also depicts Satan as a seven-headed dragon, symbolizing his influence over seven principalities or empires throughout history. These empires include Assyria, Egypt, Babylon, Media, Persia, Greece and Rome. The seventh head represents the empire that will continue to exist for a short period, as described in the book of Revelation.

Various other images have emerged, such as Satan with goat-like features, hooves and horns, however these s are not accurate. According to the Bible, Satan is a fallen angel, and various types of angels are mentioned, some with wings and others with different faces. It is essential to recognize that Satan, being a fallen angel, resembles a man, as affirmed in Isaiah 14:16-17.

“These images are man-made. This is not biblical nor is it the actual imagery of what Satan looks like,” Stone says.

The dream provided a warning about an impending attack orchestrated by the enemy. In the dream, Stone saw Satan standing near him, emanating strength and handsomeness, with a commanding presence. This encounter shattered the stereotypical image of Satan commonly portrayed in art and culture.

“I was in a was in a deep sleep in the room and standing feet away from me, I saw Satan,” explains Stone.

“He never told me he was Satan. I knew by the Spirit who he was. …He was very, very strong looking; he was very tall; he was very broad shouldered; he was extremely handsome. …He did have hair on his entire being except for his head was covered with a built-in type of armor,” adds Stone.

Stone emphasizes that discussing Satan and understanding his true nature is not about glorifying him but rather exposing the reality of his existence. By relying on Scripture and personal experiences, believers can gain valuable insights into Satan’s history, characteristics and deceptive tactics.

“If Satan is in front of you, he’s attacking you. If he’s in front of you and you’re not obeying God, you might be following him. When he is behind you (Matt. 16:23), you are free to move forward and to do the will of God, to do what God has called you to do,” Stone says.

It is crucial for Christians to recognize the importance of understanding Satan from a biblical perspective. By debunking incorrect images and exploring relevant Scriptures, believers can understand who Satan truly is. This knowledge enables them to be vigilant and equipped to combat his strategies, all while remaining rooted in the truth of God’s Word.

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

A sense of uncertainty hangs in the air over the search and rescue operation off the southeastern coast of Canada.

Ships and planes from the United States and Canada scour the vast expanse of the Atlantic, seeking to locate a submersible vessel that vanished while en route to explore the remnants of the Titanic. Surrounding the efforts of the search teams, individuals and families affected by this distressing situation turn to prayer for comfort, strength and hope.

The five missing members of the Titanic submersible are: Hamish Harding, a British businessman, pilot and space tourist; Shahzada and Suleman Dawood, a British-Pakistani businessman and his college-aged son; Paul-Henri Nargeolet, a French diver and Titanic researcher; and Stockton Rush, CEO of OceanGate, the owner of the missing deep-sea vessel, according to ABC News.

Sadly, Rush may have sealed the fate of the submersible by allegedly not hiring experienced workers based on their age and skin color according to reports:

The CEO of OceanGate, which is operating the missing Titanic tourist submarine, explains that the company didn’t want to hire any experienced “50 year old white guys” because they weren’t “inspirational.”

— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) June 21, 2023

The search efforts have drawn the eyes of the entire world, including the King of England, as three of the members were British.

“His Majesty takes a keen personal interest in the people that help to keep his Trust thriving. He will be devastated to know that Shahzada is missing but will be keeping an eye on developments,” a source close to the king told The Mirror.

The crew were aware of the dangers they faced at such depths, as reported by The Irish Examiner, “Nargeolet has ‘spent more time than any other’ at the wreckage of the Titanic. Nargeolet ominously told the outlet in 2019: ‘If you are 11m or 11km down, if something bad happens, the result is the same.’

“When you’re in very deep water, you’re dead before you realize that something is happening, so it’s just not a problem,” he added.

In the face of this challenging endeavor, the Bible illuminates the trust in God, inspiring prayers and faith to overcome adversity. This passage from Proverbs 3:5-6 resonates with believers, urging them to rely on God’s guidance: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”

Coast Guard Rear Admiral John Mauger acknowledges the difficulty of the task, describing the remote area as a challenge. However, his team remain committed to the hope of locating the submersible and rescuing the individuals on board:

“We anticipate that there’s somewhere between 70 to the full 96 hours at this point,” Mauger said on Monday, referring the presumed window of opportunity in searching for the vessel and its team. “It is a remote area and a challenge, but we are deploying all available assets to make sure we can locate the craft and rescue the people onboard.”

The families of the missing individuals issued heartfelt statements, expressing gratitude for the concern shown and requesting prayers for the safety of their loved ones. Moved by compassion, believers join together, lifting their petitions to God, knowing that He hears their cries. In Matthew 18:20, Jesus assures them, “For where two or three are assembled in My name, there I am in their midst.”

Even MMA superstar Conor McGregor shared a brief prayer on his social media in the hopes that God would intercede and bring the missing submersible crew to safety.

God, please

— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) June 21, 2023

As the search continues, faith and hope intertwine, nurturing a steadfast belief in God’s sovereignty and providence. Believers find solace in the assurance that He is their refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble (Ps. 46:1). Though the situation remains uncertain, they anchor their trust in God’s working all things together for good to those who love Him (Rom. 8:28).

During this search and rescue operation, the Bible offers foundation for faith, urging believers to turn to God in times of trouble and to trust in His unfailing love and faithfulness. They cling to the words of Psalm 130:5, “I wait for the Lord, with bated breath I wait; I long for His Word!”

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

In the current global refugee crisis, Christian organizations worldwide unite on World Refugee Day to bring attention to the struggles faced by millions of displaced individuals. The exponential rise in forced displacement, caused by conflict, persecution, violence and natural disasters, demands a compassionate response rooted in biblical teachings on welcoming the stranger, justice and love.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reports a staggering increase in the number of refugees, with 108.4 million individuals uprooted from their homes by the end of 2022, compared to 38.5 million in 2011. These numbers are a testament to the immense challenges faced by those who are forced to leave everything behind in search of safety and a better future.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to extend our hands in mercy and hospitality. The gospel message reminds believers of their responsibility to care for the vulnerable, the marginalized and that stranger among us.

This is evident in the efforts of Christian organizations such as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), which advocates for justice, peace and protection for displaced persons. They urge nations, including the United States, to fulfill their role as global leaders in refugee resettlement, increasing admissions to provide sanctuary for those in need.

Throughout history, Christians played a pivotal role in extending compassion to refugees. Recognizing the significance of this mission, Christian organizations, working in partnership with churches, have been authorized by the State Department to resettle refugees. One notable example is the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), which has served immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees since 1939. Their dedicated work has welcomed over 500,000 individuals, offering them a place to rebuild their lives and find hope in the midst of despair.

World Relief, a global Evangelical humanitarian organization, shares personal stories of refugees on its website, humanizing the issue and inspiring empathy. These stories reveal the resilience and faith of individuals like Malian, who, like biblical figures Joseph and Daniel, overcame their adversities through their unwavering trust in God’s providence. Malian’s journey from war-torn Burma to finding a new home in the United States reflects the transformative power of faith and the compassionate response in which Christians are called to walk.

Christian organizations such as the ELCA and LIRS invite their members to engage in a national day of advocacy, urging them to raise their voices and contact elected representatives to support refugee admissions. This call to action aligns with biblical teachings that emphasize the importance of standing up for justice and caring for the most vulnerable members of society.

In addition to practical engagement, Christians utilize creative expressions to bring awareness to the plight of refugees. The band Ooberfuse premiered their song, “Show Me Love,” ahead of World Refugee Day. Their music amplifies their message of love, compassion and solidarity with those affected by displacement.

World Refugee Day serves as a poignant reminder of the strength, resilience and courage exhibited by refugees worldwide. By embracing the biblical mandate to welcome the stranger, Christians demonstrate God’s love to those in desperate need, fostering hope, healing and a brighter future for all who have been forced to flee their homes.

As the global community continues to grapple with the challenges of forced displacement, may Christians worldwide rise to the occasion, guided by Jesus’ example in justice, compassion and hospitality.

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

As the month of June rolls in, colorful rainbows seem to be everywhere, symbolizing Pride Month.

But what lies beneath this celebration?

In his newest prophetic message, Rabbi Jonathan Cahn peels back the veil and reveals the secret behind Pride Month, exploring its origins and the messages conveyed by the presidential proclamation issued by President Biden while examining the implications of celebrating a month that, according to the Bible, goes against God’s principles.

The Distorted Narrative of Stonewall

The president’s proclamation refers to the Stonewall Uprising in June 1969, highlighting it as a courageous protest against marginalization. However, the true events of that night reveal a different story. The Stonewall bar, owned by the mafia, was regularly raided by the police. On that particular night, a violent mob rose against a small group of police officers, hurling stones and attempting to burn them alive inside the bar.

“That’s the actual origin of ‘Pride’ month,” Cahn explains. “That’s what the president has called you to celebrate, in his own words, which is to celebrate violence, destruction and the attempt to burn police officers alive. The Bible says woe to those who call evil good and good evil.”

Misrepresenting Laws and Parental Concerns

Biden’s proclamation claims that over 600 “hateful laws” targeting the LGBTQ community have been introduced throughout the country. However, a closer look reveals that these laws aim to protect children from indoctrination, sexualization and the potential harms associated with gender-affirming treatments at a young age. Parents’ rights and responsibilities to safeguard their children are being labeled as hateful, when in reality they are acting in their children’s best interest.

“This is what the president calls ‘hateful,'” says Cahn. “He says it is targeting the gay community, another lie. It is not targeting anyone. It is simply protecting children.

“He’s talking about a book put into children’s sections of libraries and schools with graphic pornography. Teaching children to perform all kinds of sex acts, [with] some advocating pedophilia, boys having sex with men and indoctrinating them into these lifestyles. Parents are not only right to protect their children from such things, they have a responsibility to do so,” Cahn adds.

The Role of the Bible and Conversion Therapy

The proclamation declares Biden’s opposition to “conversion therapy,” but fails to differentiate between harmful practices, and counseling that offers hope and freedom from same-sex attraction. The Bible teaches that people can be set free from any form of immorality including adultery and same-sex attraction through the power of God. The proclamation’s stance raises questions about the freedom to pursue counseling aligned with biblical teachings.

” that include counseling people [so] that they can be set free of same-sex attraction?” asks Cahn. “Just wondering, because the Bible says just that. Just as they can be free of adultery and immorality by the power of God. So, is the president going to declare the Bible illegal?”

The Disrespect for Marriage and The Dangers of Pride

The proclamation proudly mentions the signing of the Respect for Marriage Act, which struck down the Defense of Marriage Act Biden previously voted for. This act sought to redefine marriage, and the White House’s illumination in rainbow colors on the day associated with sinful marriages, as identified in the Bible, is a significant gesture with profound spiritual implications.

“The president of the United States is telling you to celebrate what God says is a sin,” warns Cahn. “It will put you at war with God, and to do so, in the name of pride which is yet another sin, he [the president] proclaimed America is a nation of ‘Pride.’ The Bible says pride leads to destruction. What have we done? We’re devoting an entire month to celebrate an alternative form of sexuality? We don’t even give more than a day to celebrate America’s birth!”

A Call to Truth and Protection

For those involved in alternative lifestyles, God’s love is unwavering, calling them back to Him. Christians are called to speak the truth in love and resist the darkness that seeks to destroy lives. Parents must protect their children from agendas that could harm their well-being, remembering that their children are a gift from God entrusted to their care.

“When you turn away from God, this is what happens. Jesus warned of it. Your house will become repossessed by the spirits that were cast out and so it has. It is either God, or this. For those of you who are into these lifestyles, you are loved by God and He is calling you back and because of His love He speaks, and we speak, the truth and stand against the darkness that would destroy you,” Cahn says.

To learn more about the spiritual battle taking place in America, view Jonathan Cahn’s newest book “The Return of the Gods.”

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

Bill Wiese is urging people to consider their spiritual readiness for the return of Jesus.

Author of the best-selling book “23 Minutes in Hell,” Wiese argues there is no more important issue to settle than whether one is ready to meet Jesus.

“How could anyone deny the days we are living in?” asks Wiese. “How can anyone ignore the signs of unrest, war and deception?”

The Word of God is very clear in commanding, and warning, believers to live in a state of constant readiness and preparedness for the return of Jesus Christ.

Here are four Scriptures encouraging Christians to be prepared for Jesus’ return:

• Matthew 24:44: “Therefore you also must be ready, for in an hour when you least expect, the Son of Man is coming.” This verse highlights the unpredictability of Jesus’ return and encourages believers to be prepared at all times.
• 1 Thessalonians 5:2: “For you know perfectly that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.” Here, the apostle Paul reminds believers that the return of Jesus will be sudden and unexpected, underscoring the need for readiness.
• Matthew 25:13: “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.” This verse comes from the parable of the 10 virgins, where Jesus teaches the importance of being prepared and watchful for His return.
• Revelation 16:15: “Look, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches and keeps his garments on, lest he walk naked and his shame be exposed.” This verse emphasizes the need to remain spiritually alert and clothed in righteousness, being ready for Jesus’ return.

Wiese’s words parallel what the Word of God says as he shares the final words Jesus told him in his 23-minute vision of hell.

“The last words Jesus said to ‘tell them I am coming very, very soon,” explains Wiese.

“Now the Bible is clear that Jesus is coming back to rapture the believers, bring judgement upon the wicked and then rule and reign on the Earth. Whatever we may believe about the timing of the Rapture is not as important as if we are ready for His return,” Wiese continues.

Wiese notes that Christians must stay in a relationship with God and lead holy lives to be ready. Wiese cites the parable of the wedding feast, in which a man is turned away because he is not wearing the proper clothing, as an example of how our own work will not secure salvation.

As faith wavers across America, Wiese encourages believers in this country and around the world to heed the words of Jesus to the church in Sardis in Revelation 3:3 saying:

“Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.”

“The bottom line is, if we do not obey God’s Word, we are deceived,” Wiese says.

As Satan moves through society seeking out those who will turn their ears to his corrupted versions of the gospel, Christians must heed the warnings of those like Wiese who point back to the Word of God on how to live a righteous life and be prepared for the return of the one, true King.

“Today more than ever, you must store up God’s Word to discern the times and combat lies,” says Wiese.

“The question to ask ourselves is, ‘Am I ready?'”

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

A member of the Satanic Temple recently created demonic AI-generated imagery placed on the shelves inside of Hobby Lobby then posted the pictures to social media.

These images sent shockwaves through thousands of people who thought they were viewing actual statues and merchandise due to the realism of the photos.

Jennifer Vinyard, an Austin-area pharmacy technician and self-described member of the Satanic Temple, appeared to find humor in the postings mocking Christians trying to protect children from the gender ideologies in society today by saying, “I think we need to talk about what is going on at Hobby Lobby… won’t somebody please think of the children!?” in her Facebook post.

“I couldn’t believe how many likes and shares the photos got,” Vinyard told Motherboard. “I’ve read so many comments that cracked me up, mostly from the people who thought they were real and were super angry. I even got some mean Messenger messages from them.”

The post has been shared over 7,000 times and had over 100 comments before the Facebook page AI Art Universe shut down the comments section.

One account on TikTok covered the imagery in shock and led to the video being viewed over 297,000 times.

@woahthatisstrange Where is this hobby lobby someone has to know! #demon #satan #creepy #scary #greenscreenvideo ♬ Spooky, quiet, scary atmosphere piano songs – Skittlegirl Sound

As word spread that the Christian-run company was selling demonic imagery and statues of satanic figures, the truth was eventually found out that the images were AI-generated.

As reported by Motherboard, the tech division of Vice News, Vinyard said she plays with Midjourney occasionally and enjoys painting and drawing. “The prompt was actually very simple; it was something along the lines of ‘Hobby Lobby selling Satanic products.’ I also used photos of Hobby Lobby in the prompt,” she said. It took Midjourney around 10 minutes to generate the images. “I’m actually a little embarrassed that they weren’t I knew they were going to blow up the way they did, I would have spent more time on them.”

According to their website, Midjourney is an “independent research lab exploring new mediums of thought and expanding the imaginative powers of the human species. We are a small self-funded team focused on design, human infrastructure and AI.” The Midjourney website allows users to create AI-created art following prompts from the user.

This allowed Vinyard to enter prompts of satanic imagery in a Christian business after getting the idea from the displays removed from Target with satanic imagers earlier in May.

“I just thought it would be funny to use the Satanic decor, since Hobby Lobby pretends to be a Christian store,” Vinyard said.

Jesus warned His followers of this happening some 2,000 years ago however, when He told the disciples in John 15:18: “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you.”

When a new technology comes about, one of the first things Satan wants to use it for is to denigrate the name of Jesus. He just can’t help himself, and thus it is easy to anticipate how the devil will attack the Word of God and rally hatred toward the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Hobby Lobby is no stranger to the furor of the world, either.

Having taken a strong, pro-life stance, Hobby Lobby has drawn the ire of leftist groups and media since the company took its case of not providing contraceptives that violated their religious freedoms to the Supreme Court and won.

Christians must be aware that these types of attacks will not stop. If anything they will increase as the times continues devolving into godless madness, and take the initiative in the spiritual warfare taking place in the world.

Wisdom, knowledge and discernment are key factors for Christians to identify falsehoods being spread around social media.

The political theatre is already preparing to deal with, and utilize, deep fake visuals and audio recordings in the upcoming election where chaos and misinformation are sure to abound.

So, take some extra time growing in wisdom. Read the book of Proverbs and see what one of the wisest men in history wrote down while inspired by the Holy Spirit. If anyone is seeking to learn more and grow in their relationship with God so that they are prepared for the trying times ahead, the Bible is the best place to start.

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.