In honor of a dear friend, Ralph Carroll, who went on to be with the Lord, I want to relate this dynamic story told me by his wife Ruth, that demonstrates the importance of faith among family.

            Ruth wrote, "I grew up around what was termed a "Classical Full Gospel background." I can recall we kids were raised very strict, especially when it came to what was termed, "outward adornment." Women did not cut their hair, wear makeup or any form of jewelry. Even though Christians, from other denominations, considered our church members odd the people were very humble, simple and very dedicated to the Lord. They would often make a "vow" to God and this vow would become a part of their daily walk with the Lord. A noted minister named Muncy made that same vow.  From the very beginning of his ministry, he told God that if He would take care of his family he, would always take care of God's business. Reverend Muncy trusted God completely to provide for him and his family and in return he dedicated his entire life each day to the work of the Lord.

            Reverend Muncy served his denomination (The Church of God) as an assistant State Overseer.  When the head Bishop became sick, Rev. Muncy was called upon to go out of town for a conference. While getting ready to leave he started the car and went back inside the house for a moment.  When he returned to the car later to leave he was unaware that his five-year old son, Jack, had been playing behind the car.  Jack had been overtaken by the car fumes and passed out. As Rev. Muncy backed the car up he accidently ran over Jack.  When he jumped out of the car his little son's head had been run over and his eyes were protruding out of his head.  He picked him up, took him into the house and laid him on the bed. Everyone was upset and crying out in prayer.

            At that moment, the preacher said and did something that his daughter Ruth (Ralph's wife) would never forget. He told his wife, "The Lord has told me that if I'd take care of His business that He would take care of mine!"  He then got in his car and headed to the conference. He was so dedicated to the church and the work of God that he trusted God to heal his son.  Ruth was a young girl and recalled the mother and all the children praying. She said, "Jack's face was swelled in a horrible condition and all out of proportion and he was completely unconscious."

            Later, the very minute the minister returned home and drove his car into the drive way, Ruth said, "It looked like someone stuck a pin in Jack's head.  His face began to go down. His eye and ear went back into place.  It was amazing to watch." She commented, "Jack looked up at mother and said, "You know I missed supper - I'm hungry."  He was instantly healed just like nothing every happened. He never had any side effects or scars to show it ever happened.  Dad always believed that if you ask God for anything (especially miracles pertaining to sickness) that God would always supernaturally come through."

Ralph and Ruth were some of the first people Pam and I met before moving to Cleveland.   Ralph has served from the start on our ministry Board of Directors. I recall Ruth telling this story many years ago, and believed God honored the vow of this man of God, saying, "God, if you will take care of my family I will always take care of your business." Ralph carried on that same spiritual legacy for his own family, in the same manner that his father-in-law, Rev. Muncy did his.

            This is very similar to the Mitzpah covenant. This covenant asked God to watch over your loved ones when you are away from them. Some may say, "I don't need to make a special covenant in order for God to see or watch over me or my family." This may be true in the sense that the "eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous," and the "footsteps of the righteous are ordered of the Lord" (Psalms 34:15; 37:23).  However, the Scriptures reveal the will and plan of God but the Almighty moves toward us and for us when we ask. We are told to ask in order to receive (Matt.7:7).  There are several reasons we must ask.

            First, when asking we are demonstrating that we believe what God has spoken.

            Second, there is a spiritual law that all promises of God are released by asking and believing

            Third, our faith is build and our joy is full when we ask and see God answer our prayers...

Keep the Faith

Perry Stone, Jr.

                Recently, an opinion poll was conducted among Jewish citizens, living in Israel.  The question was asked of the Israeli's, if Israel were to go to war with Iran, did they believe that the present American administration would stand behind them.  To the shock of the pollsters, only 4% of those questioned, believed the administration would stand behind Israel. Since the reformation of Israel as a nation, this is the lowest confidence number in an American administration, on record.

                The modern nation of Israel is actually in a unique and rather precarious situation.  For example, the Ultra-Orthodox Jews living in Israel do not believe the modern nation of Israel is recognized in the eyes of God. It is the common belief among most Ultra Orthodox groups in Jerusalem, that only the Jewish Messiah has the legal, political and spiritual authority to recognize the existence of Israel.  In their view, the Messiah is a future man that will defeat Israel's enemies, raise the dead and rule from Jerusalem.  His assignment also includes liberating the Temple Mount and rebuilding the Third Temple.

                There are also hundreds of thousands, even millions of Muslims living in and around Israel. While moderate Muslims in Israel (called Israeli Arabs) and many Muslims on Jordan are friendly toward their Jewish half brothers, there are other fanatics who call for the destruction of Israel and the removal of Jews from, "Palestinian Lands." This belief that is propagated in much of the West Bank, and especially in Gaza, make it difficult for Israel to negotiate a peaceful solution to co-exist with Muslims living among them. In fact, in some areas called the "Palestinian territories," if an Arab Christian or Muslim has Jewish friends or makes contact with Jews, they can be accused of being a collaborator and reporting information to Israeli authorities. This accusation usually climaxes in the death of the accused.

                Then there is the international community. The entire world revolved around "black gold," the oil from the Middle East used to run the engines of world economies. The majority of oil producing nations is also Muslims nations, most of whom believe the Jews have no legal or spiritual rights to the land they now possess, and have been at times (remember the oil embargo) willing to use oil as an economic weapon against nations that would militarily defend Israel.  The U.S. involvement in protecting Saudi Arabia in the first Gulf War did help the Arabs to understand how vulnerable their oil wells were in the event of a major war involving missiles.

                Now there is the United States.  From the time of President Harry Truman, until the conclusion of the Presidency of George Bush in 2008, the Israeli leaders knew that despite political opposition, they could depend upon the United States to be a supporter, a spiritual friend, and to defend the Jewish state if they were attacked by an enemy, or if they found the need to pre-empt a strike against a dangerous foe in the region.  Israel found the need to take out an Iraqi nuclear reactor under Saddam Hussein and also to bomb a facility being built in Syria, which was being constructed for nuclear purposes.

                With the new administration, the Israeli leadership has begun to receive various signals that they will not be as friendly toward the Jewish state, as previous administrations. For example, according to Israel sources, they were told by individuals high in the administration, "We are going to change the world so don't get in our way."  It was reported they were also instructed not to construct any more apartments in the "occupied territories," and not to buy property, purchase buildings or lands in east Jerusalem, which has been designated as part of the occupied lands. But it doesn't end there. They have been discouraged from planning an attack against the Iranian nuclear facilities, and perhaps the most insulting moment came months ago when a photo was released from the White House showing the president speaking to Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, with the soles of his feet facing the photographer.  To expose the bottom of your shoes or feet in the Arab world, is the highest insult and the worse thing a person can do in public. I was told that when the picture made news in Israel, many Muslims were laughing and saying, "The president is insulting Netanyahu!"

                At this present time, it appears that the entire world has turned against Israel. The real root of this conflict is Jerusalem, as this city, sacred to three religions: Christianity, Judaism and Islam, will be a "cup of trembling to all nations round about it" (Zech 12:2). In the future God will gather all nations against Jerusalem in a battle of all battles (Zech. 14:2). Presently, the conflict over Jerusalem is a religious and not a political one. Since the third holiest site in Islam is the Dome of the Rock and El Aqusa, the Muslims want the entire area liberated from the Jews and Christians. The larger and more influential the Islamic religion becomes in Europe, the more decisions will be made against Israel and pressure will be put upon the Israelis to give up more land and make more concessions for "peace," that is more an optical illusion than a dream that will come true.

                In the future war of Gog and Magog, the Lord will glorify His name and receive all of the credit for Israel's victory of the numerous nations (all Islamic by the way), that will be crushed by not only the Israeli forces but through several supernatural interventions. (Ezekiel 38:18; 23). I am not and have never been concerned about the Jewish state's ability to defend itself from an enemies attack. If Israel were to unleash their capabilities, few nations on earth could withstand their advanced technology.  However, I am concerned for those nations, such as the United States, whose present leadership apparently knows little or nothing about Biblical prophecy and the covenant God made with Israel, and the blessings provided to those who bless His people (Gen. 12:3). Only time will reveal how the new administration will treat Israel. The Israelis are very concerned that with the president's Islamic roots, he will lean more toward defending Muslims, for the sake of being popular and attempting to make America a more global community.  Only time will tell how Israel will react and America will respond.

                Hollywood has finally caught on.  It has taken years for them to comprehend that about 70% of those living in America believe the Bible contains prophecy and that there will be a return of Christ.  While there is a variety of theological opinion as to the timing of this blessed event, there has been increased interest since 9-11 in understanding the future revealed by the Biblical prophets.

                Thus, Hollywood has began producing numerous Apocalyptic movies that use dynamic animation effects to illustrate the end of the world, the destruction of the planet and what society would be like in the event of a nuclear war or the sudden strike of an asteroid.  I have watched a few of these movies at home on DVD and was somewhat amazed at the Scriptural themes that seem to run through the movie.  However, there is always some weird twist that blotches the entire Biblical link!          

                Jonathan and I were watching one video and it appeared that"Rapture," was going to occur and it did.  A group of Aliens in UFOs showed up and lifted the faithful into a large space ship which departed in light, spinning into outer space to some unknown planet.  My son looked at me and said, "Dad...you think this is possible. Could the Lord come in a space craft and then the world have an explanation as to why all the people disappeared?"  I shared the Scriptures with him and told him the "Lord himself was coming" and not a UFO.  However, due to the number of alleged UFOs that are being spotted, it may be possible that a post Biblical society that has no understanding of prophecy may explain the disappearance of a multitude as some form of an invasion from another planet.

                Before you think this weird theory would not become the main explanation for this supernatural departure, there are members in the New Age movement that are actually teaching a future disappearance of multitudes who are creating a negative aura and dark atmosphere in the environment. Of course the Christian "right" and the conservatives who do not believe in kissing an owl, hugging a tree and calling earth our mother, are a part of those who will suddenly vanish.

                Then there is 2012.  This date has both Christians and non Christians engaged in conversations and research to determine if the ancient Mayan Indians have left us a code in their calendar which warns of a major cosmic crisis that will begin in December 2012 as the sun enters a special cycle that could impact the electro-magnetic field on the earth.  I have been told there are numerous books being released that will explore this date and give their opinions of what will occur.  In December, I am releasing book number seven of Unusual Prophecies exploring the Biblical link of cosmic signs from 2015 onward. I am seeking to give the truth and not some personal opinion.

                As time progresses, there will be much discussion on various unusual subjects such as UFOs, Aliens, 2012, and other subjects that often intrigue those in the secular community. It may seem strange to say, but it's just like the subject of dinosaurs.  They did exist and often young people want to know where did they come from and what actually happened to them. Too often Christians allow a secular professor or a teacher of evolution to promote his opinion of creation omitting God from the process. Parents will say, "I don't know anything about it and don't care." However, to a younger mind searching for truth, either you give them the truth from Scripture and history, or they are drawn like a magnet into information that deters them from God. Therefore, while some research information may not peak your interest, we need to be ready to give answers, as best we can, to those who have questions.

"For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many.

- Matt. 24:5 (NKJV)

"I have come in My Father's name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive."                                                 

- John 5:43 (NKJV)

The Napoleon Story:

            The French Emperor Napoleon conquered Poland and Russia, tearing down the walls of the Jewish ghettos. Afterwards, he changed laws and injustices against the Jews and he restored the Jewish counsel, the Sanhedrin.

            Soon Napoleon marched toward Jerusalem, declaring his intent to reestablish Jewish sovereignty over the Holy Land. At that time, some Hassid Jews believed Napoleon was introducing a new Messianic era that would help bring about the final redemption predicted in the Holy Scriptures. The emperor was often seen riding in full military attire upon a white stallion. The Jews were disappointed when their favored emperor met his Waterloo.

            Since the revelation of the Apocalypse given to John on the Island of Patmos, men have been looking for the King to return on a white horse (Rev. 19:11). In fact, there are three monotheistic religions: Christianity, Judaism and Islam. All three are anticipating the arrival of a Messiah or a Messiah like figure that will make his universal arrival riding upon a special white stallion.  These three religions are accepted by about 45% of the world's population.

            The Christians identify this person as Christ the Messiah. The religious Jews teach that he is a man who is the Meshiach, or anointed one. The conquering Messiah is identified as the "Messiah son of David," who will rule and conquer the enemies of Israel and rule after the war of Gog and Magog. While the Muslims also have a belief in a future war of Gog and Magog, they identify their final leader as the Mahdi. He will conquer Islam's enemies which include Christians and Jews.

            For over 1900 years, true Christians have maintained there is only one Messiah and that is Christ. Among the Jews however, there have been numerous self acclaimed or "candidates" for the Messiah, including Bar Kokhba (132-136 AD), Napoleon and more recently, Menachem Schneerson. In 17^th century Turkish Jew Sabbatai Zvi had so much attention that bets were placed on stock exchanges that he was the Messiah. There was even interest in England where some Christians said he was preview of the Second Coming and Muslims were worried the Jews were accepting him as their Messiah. Some Jews sold property, carved stones with his initials, inscribed prayer books in his honor while others made preparations for a new life in The Holy land. Other self appointed saviors included:

• 1550 - In Poland Jacob Melstinski announced he is Christ and selected 12 disciples
• 1556 - David Jorries proclaims himself the true Christ
• 1614 - In Langensalza, Ezekiel Meth proclaims himself the Grand Duke of God and Archangel Michael
• 1615 - Isaiah Stieffel announces, "I am the Christ I am the Living Word."
• 1624 - Phillip Zieglar prophesied a Messiah of the line of David to be born in Holland

Helping to Bring the Messiah to the World

            Among certain Jewish sects there is interest in "helping to bring" the Messiah to the nation. Years ago a Jewish man was arrested attempting to blow up the Eastern Gate. He was hoping to speed up the Messiah's appearing. Others are preparing sacred vessels for the third Temple and training young men in the Torah offerings. Some secularist accuse Christians of helping to speed up the appearing of Christ through Christians financing the return of the Jews (Jer. 16), helping to plant trees making the desert to blossom (Isa. 35), and working to unite the Christians and Jews (Rom.11).

           There is even a rumbling among Islamic nations that the soon appearing of the Mahdi is upon them. Of course one of the central traditions is that the Mahdi will appear riding upon a white horse. This white horse theme is seen in the Christian faith, among the Jewish tradition and especially among the Muslims. The Muslims believe their Mahdi will be recognized when he rides into Jerusalem to conquer the infidels on a white horse.

He was on the Wrong Animal

            One day I was thinking, "This may be why the religious Jewish people did not recognize Jesus as their Messiah...he was, according to some, riding on the wrong animal. He entered the city riding upon a donkey, the animal for a servant. In Roman times military generals and emperors rode upon white horses. A donkey was the animal a servant rode - not a king, and especially not the Jewish Messiah.  Apparently some had not read this prophecy:

           "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey."                                                                                                                         -  Zechariah 9:9 (NKJV)

            The reason for the donkey was that Christ was revealed in his first appearing as a suffering servant. However, when he returns he will be riding on a white horse as the conquering King of Kings; the Lion of the Tribe of Judah! When you become discouraged with all of the negative news, just remember that the lamb is about to become a lion and when he returns, there will be a lot of white horse riders riding with him. I believe you and I have a fine stallion waiting for us.  I am anticipating the time when the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our God and his Christ (Rev. 11:15).  We are servants now but will be kings and priests in the future kingdom. No donkeys then - just white stallions!