• Suffer with Christ
• The root cause of suffering
• What can we learn
• Members of your own household

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Human nature resists suffering. But what does it mean to suffer, especially to suffer with Christ?

Matthew 16:21-22 (NKJV) reads:
From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day. Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!”

The Greek word for "suffer" is paschō (G3958), which can mean enduring in either a good or bad sense. It’s important to understand the context of Jesus’ suffering and what our perspective and expectations should be when we face suffering ourselves.

Jesus clearly identified the individuals who would be the cause of His suffering:

1. Elders
2. Chief priests
3. Scribes that include the Sandhedrine and the Jewish High Court

These were leaders in the Church—those called to shepherd and guide God’s people. Ironically, it was these leaders who caused Jesus’ suffering and eventual death.
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Now, as we know, there were a handful of leaders who recognized Jesus’ authority and knew He was the Son of God. But they did not fully grasp what it meant to suffer with Him. Notice, Peter’s response to Jesus in Matthew 16:22. His reaction reveals the mindset of many when he rebuked Jesus, essentially saying, “This will never happen to You!” (AMP). But let’s go deeper.

According to the International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia, suffering means to permit or allow; to go through or experience; to suffer affliction or share ill-treatment, hardship, adversity, dishonor, shame, violence, or wrong. There is nothing good about suffering. But Jesus knew beforehand that His suffering was being allowed by God and, therefore, it was to be expected in His case.

Despite the intensity of His trials, Jesus never complained publicly or privately. He endured as a soldier, understanding that His suffering was essential for the salvation of humanity. Jesus understood that to accomplish His purpose on earth on behalf of mankind, His suffering was an unfortunate necessity.

​Christians often quote the phrase “we must suffer with Christ” but fail to live out its true meaning in their ministry, church activities, or when fulfilling their personal ministry or divine calling. Like Peter, many of us resist the reality of suffering, even though it is part of our journey with Christ. They love saying the phase because it is sounded Christianese, but most are not geniuely committed to living out that jargon. In fact, Peter said in the terms that most Christains geninuely feel about suffering with Christ. “This shall not happen to you!” (NKJV). The Amplified Version says, “… God forbid it.”
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Christians must understand that we have more than an obligation to preach and teach the good news of the gospel and to assist in building up our brothers and sisters in the faith (Matthew 28:19-20; Ephesians 4:11-16). But we have the responsibility to endure suffering at the hands of Church folks and its leaders, like Christ. The scriptures say you enemy will be members of your household (Matthew 10:36).

The Greek word for "household" (oikiakos, G3615) refers to those under the authority of a master, whether a son or a servant. Are we all not servants under control of the House of God? Therefore, we should not be surprised when our suffering comes from within the Body of Christ, even from its leaders. We need to ask ourselves:

• So, why do so many become upset and publicly vocalize their grievances on social media or among a group of their peers?
• For what purpose?
• What are you actually attempting to accomplish by doing so, especially when we all are instructed to expect to suffer with Christ?

Jesus was not shocked by the behavior and actions of His brothers. In fact, He spoke about such behavior by leaders before it even occurred—but not in a way to earn sympathy points from others, to cause division, or to build a caravan of support for a pity party, etc. When Jesus spoke of His suffering, He did so in a way that fulfilled the words Paul spoke in Ephesians 4:12-13:

• To equip the saints
• To edify the Body
• To create and build unity of faith

Is this what your public grievances are creating among the Body of Christ? If not, then your actions are causing division and discord, and you are not suffering with Christ in the manner in which you should. This also applies to anyone who agrees, likes, or makes supporting comments regarding a person's public grievances. Therefore, it is important that we check our hearts (2 Corinthians 13:5).

Let’s close with Paul’s words at 2 Corinthians 13:1-5. “This will be the third time I am coming to you. ‘By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.’ I have told you before, and foretell as if I were present the second time, and now being absent I write to those who have sinned before, and to all the rest, that if I come again I will not spare— since you seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, who is not weak toward you, but mighty in you. For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you. Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified.

Let’s not disqualify ourselves by continuing to cause division among our brothers by publicly complaining about our suffering, the things Jesus said we should be willing to endure with Him. Suffering at the hands of some leaders should be expected. Why?

1. It occurs sometimes at our own hands because of bad decisions made on our part when dealing with our brothers and sisters.
2. Because Jesus said we all should be willing to suffer with Him. If we are truly of Christ, we are expected to suffer alongside Him.
3. Again, Matthew 10:36 says a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household. Why is this the case? Because even in the Body of Christ, especially among its leadership, there will be some who profess to believe and follow Christ, but really do not.

​Knowing this should bring us some level of comfort, knowing that we are suffering alongside Christ, as He did. 

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• Offended
• Offense exposes your heart
• Many offended by the 2024 Presidential Election

​Matthew 15:12 reads, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?” (NKJV). We won’t dive into why they were offended in this post, but you can read about it in verses 1 through 9 on your own.
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Today, let’s focus on the word “offended,” especially in the wake of this year’s Presidential Election. Here’s how that verse reads in the Message Bible: “Did you know how upset the Pharisees were when they heard what you said?” The Amplified Classic states they were “displeased and offended and indignant.
The Greek word for “offended” is skandalizō (G4624), which means:

​These meanings become more impactful when we think about them. Offense can cause someone not only to stumble but also to separate from someone they should trust and obey. It can lead someone to shift from love and respect to hate and disrespect toward someone who is good for them, simply due to differing views or lack of understanding on the offended behalf. We must understand that taking offense is very destructive, especially when what one becomes offended over is to benefit them.
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Now, notice who is in the wrong in the passage we read. In Matthew 15, the Scribes and Pharisees were in Jesus’ presence and questioned Him about His disciples. Realizing that they lacked all the facts, Jesus corrected their misunderstanding and provided a proper perspective. Instead of accepting correction and repenting, the Scribes and Pharisees took offense.
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Whenever we are offended by someone sharing something with us, it’s essential to check our hearts. Why? Because our lives, our eternity, depend on it.

After Jesus responded to the Pharisees in verses 3 through 11, Peter privately asked Jesus to “explain this parable to us” (v. 15). Jesus responded in verses 16–20: “So Jesus said, ‘Are you also still without understanding [unable to put things together]? 17 Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated? 18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. 19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies [verbal abuse, irreverent speech]. 20 These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man.’”
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When we take offense at someone’s words or actions intended to provide insight, wisdom, knowledge, or correction, our hearts and true nature are exposed. This is what Jesus said about those offended by correction. Offense reveals:

​​Luke 2:35 gives further insight into how people can become easily offended by what is ultimately good for them. In Luke 2:25-35, Simeon receives a prophecy that he will see the Savior before his death. When Simeon sees Jesus, he blesses Him, declaring that the child will cause the rise and fall of many in Israel, exposing the thoughts of many hearts.
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​The 2024 Presidential Election has exposed the hearts of many, including those in the church because many are unwilling to see:

​​Many today are offended in the same way the Scribes and Pharisees were in Matthew 15:12. When we read such accounts as in Matthew, it should cause us to self-reflect, ensuring we are not offended by what God is doing in this season and those He is choosing to use, both within and outside His church.

​Jesus’ disciples asked Him a very important question: 

“And the disciples came and said to Him, ‘Why do You speak to them in parables?’ He answered and said to them, ‘Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.’ (Matthew 13:10-11)

Why is it important to understand Jesus’ response to His disciples’ question? Go to 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, which reads:

“But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake. For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

Let’s digest what is being said here. Then, I want to follow with a disclaimer.
The first thing mentioned in these verses is that, to some, the “gospel is veiled.” Now granted, these verses in 2 Corinthians are referring to unbelievers. But I want to apply the principle here to believers, those who call themselves followers of Christ.

The verses say the “gospel is veiled.” Veiled in what sense? The Greek word for veiled is kalyptō (G2571), meaning to hide or to hinder the knowledge of a thing. So, when scripture says, “our gospel is veiled,” it means something is preventing or keeping a person from seeing or understanding a spiritual truth, whether that truth is spoken through God’s word or something the Spirit of God is doing in our modern times. This is one of the reasons there is so much division among church members; for some, the gospel of the kingdom is being veiled.

Some followers of Christ have grown to a point where God can unveil or grant them the ability to see, understand, and know the deep mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. To others, however (even seasoned saints), it is not granted. Why is this the case? According to 2 Corinthians 4, their minds are blinded to these spiritual truths. These individuals lack the ability—or willingness—to discern certain spiritual truths. Therefore, the verses in 2 Corinthians 4 say that the gospel is veiled to them because “the god of this age has blinded their minds.”
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The god of this age is Satan. Satan has masterfully worked to put people, systems, governments, and other mechanisms in place to deceive many Christians into believing what is good is evil and what is evil is good.
Take the 2024 Presidential Election. We have two remaining candidates with only eight days left. We all can agree that both candidates lack a certain level of substance for voters looking for high moral judgment and standards in a candidate. However, it is very clear which of the two candidates’ policies or agendas is more closely aligned with biblical principles. Let’s focus more closely on one of Harris’ political agendas as it relates to the deception Satan is using through her to deceive many Christians into thinking she is a good choice for president.

Her New Way Forward agenda promotes protecting Americans’ fundamental freedoms, strengthening their democracy, and ensuring everyone has an opportunity to get ahead. One way she plans to do this is by restoring and protecting reproductive freedoms.

The Roe v. Wade case successfully ended women’s right to abortion during the Trump administration, which many like Harris believe was a disservice to society. But as believers in Christ, we must remember that it is our goal to align ourselves with God’s standards and moral code, as outlined in His word, the Bible. So, what do the scriptures say about abortion?

There is much debate about when an embryo is considered a living being—at conception or later. But the Bible simplifies this confusion for us. Leviticus 17:11, 14 says, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood… for the life of all flesh, its blood is (the same) as its life…” (AMP).

​An embryo is considered a living being at the moment blood, the source of all life, circulates throughout its cells. According to science, this occurs in two stages:

​With that being said, Harris’ policy to restore and protect reproductive rights is in direct opposition to God’s standards and laws. Therefore, her agenda is considered evil in God’s eyes. Scripture, which is God’s law, puts it this way: “These six things the LORD hates; indeed, seven are repulsive to Him…. Hands that shed innocent blood” (Proverbs 6:16-17, AMP). Exodus 20:13 says, “You shall not commit murder (unjustified, deliberate homicide)” (AMP).

In God’s eyes, shedding blood or abortion is considered to be homicide. Genesis 9:6 explains: “Whoever sheds man’s blood (unlawfully), by man shall his blood be shed, for in the image of God He made man.”

As we see, Harris’ policy is evil according to scripture, and Satan plays a major role in deceiving people, even some Christians, by twisting God’s laws. Through Harris’ policy on abortion, Satan has cleverly used deception to convince many Christians that she would make a great president despite her agenda that promotes what is evil as if it were good.

If we have come to believe that Harris and her abortion policy are good for society, then our minds have been blinded by Satan and the instruments he uses to deceive us. This same case applies to her border and LGBT policies, among others. However, her policies on abortion, the border, and LGBT issues are the most destructive.

Among some believers, the gospel has been veiled. Instead of shining light into the dark areas of society as God has commanded, we have compromised our faith to advocate for an agenda of darkness. This is the case whether we knowingly agree to such an agenda through agents like Harris and others in the Democratic party, or we are deceived into agreement with darkness through lies. In God’s eyes, we have come into agreement with darkness by choosing to use our liberty or free will in a corrupt way that supports a corrupted agenda.
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Now, my disclaimer. Given what has been said about some Christians’ poor ability to discern, we need to keep in mind the parable Jesus spoke about in Matthew 13:1-9:
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“That same day Jesus went out of the house and was sitting beside the sea. But such large crowds gathered around Him that He got into a boat and sat there, while the whole crowd stood on the shore. He told them many things in parables, saying, ‘Listen carefully: a sower went out to sow seed; and as he sowed, some seed fell beside the road, and the birds came and ate it. Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and at once they sprang up because they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns came up and choked them. Other seed fell on good soil and yielded grain, some a hundred times as much, some sixty, and some thirty. He who has ears, let him hear.’”

There are levels to worshiping and serving God. In our ability to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven and understand what God is doing in this season, people—especially Christians—are choosing what they prefer to believe based on family values, culture, personal preferences, intellect, etc., rather than allowing the word of God to transform their hearts and minds. Their limited understanding and personal preferences become stronger influences than God’s truth. 

Jesus knew that human intellect and personal preferences would often override truth. Far too many Christians are not teachable. Hence, Jesus said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” (Matthew 13:9).

Those who are teachable are granted to know and understand the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven; to others, it is not granted. Jesus continues in verses 13 through 15:

“Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. And in them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, which says, ‘You will hear and keep on hearing, but never understand; And you will look and keep on looking, but never comprehend; For this nation’s heart has grown hard, And with their ears they hardly hear, And they have tightly closed their eyes; Otherwise they would see with their eyes, And hear with their ears, And understand with their heart, and turn to Me, And I would heal them spiritually.’”

So, let those who have ears to hear, let them hear!

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• Fear God
• Light Makes Everything Visible
• The Moral Of The Story

“Whatever I say to you in the dark (privately), tell in the light (publicly); and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim from the housetops [to many people]” (Matthew 10:27). 

Christians are not supposed to be silent. It is Christ's expectation that His followers would proclaim the good news of the gospel to those around them, especially in today's political climate. 

We are supposed to tackle and expose corrupt politicians, individuals, and systems in our communities. Ephesians 5:11 says, “Do not participate in worthless and unproductive deeds of darkness, but instead expose them [by exemplifying personal integrity, moral courage, and godly character].” 

Let’s go back to verse 3 to make this even clearer: “But sexual immorality and all [moral] impurity [indecent, offensive behavior] or greed must not even be hinted at among you, as is proper among saints [for as believers, our way of life—whether in public or in private—reflects the validity of our faith]." Verse 4 says, “Let there be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse [obscene or vulgar] joking, because such things are not appropriate [for believers]; but instead speak of your thankfulness [to God].”  

Verse 5 adds, “For be sure of this: no immoral, impure, or greedy person—for that one is [in effect] an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God [for such a person places a higher value on something other than God].” 

ONE CANNOT LIVE A LIFESTYLE LIKE THE ONE DESCRIBED IN THESE VERSES AND BELIEVE THEY HAVE GOD’S APPROVAL OR WILL BE ACCEPTED INTO GOD’S KINGDOM ON EARTH OR IN HEAVEN. (Also, see Galatians 5:17-25.) 

Apostle Paul goes on to say in verse 6, “Let no one deceive you with empty arguments [that encourage you to sin]….” Let’s stop there for a moment as we consider the 2024 Presidential candidates such as Kamala Harris. 

As we listen to this woman give public speeches on her campaign, in interviews with the media, and on other platforms, this is exactly what she is doing, as stated in Ephesians 5:6. She speaks all kinds of elaborate words that don’t say anything, hypnotizing her audience. It's influencing and working because her political agenda does not benefit Americans. In fact, it will destroy America and American livelihoods. Plus, whenever she speaks, her words are full of half-truths or outright lies. But many cannot or choose not to see through her lies. Why? Because they are allowing or knowingly choosing themselves to be deceived (beguiled—charmed or enchanted by her whimsical behavior and words, which is a form of witchcraft). Yes, they are being bewitched by her charismatic personality and language. 

GOD’s people are allowing themselves to be influenced by a form of witchcraft. Hence, why verse 6 says, “Let no one deceive you with empty arguments…” (or word salad) “(that encourages you to sin).” Why such a stern warning? It continues, “… because of these things the wrath of GOD comes upon the sons of disobedience (those who habitually sin)." 
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Verse 7 says, “So do not participate or even associate with them [in the rebelliousness of sin].” Verse 8 continues, “For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [live as those who are native-born to the Light].” This leads us to verse 11: “Do not participate in the worthless and unproductive deeds of darkness, but instead expose them [by exemplifying personal integrity, moral courage, and godly character].” Verse 13 goes on to say that, “… all things become visible when they are exposed by the light (of GOD’s precepts), for it is light that makes everything visible.”  
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Christians are often referred to as ‘light’ in scripture. Therefore, as a light source, we are expected to make things of GOD and things that are not of GOD visible. This is our duty and responsibility (Matthew 28:19-20). 

We are not supposed to tolerate and allow evil to exist (Ephesians 5:15). Why? Because we are all supposed to be “… subject to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21). The Greek word for reverence is "phobos," which means to be put in fear or, simply put, to fear. 

The word "fear" is not merely a feeling of dread or terror, as we understand it. This is a type of fear that should be coupled with awe (respect). A type of awe where we love GOD so much that we fear letting HIM down or disappointing HIM. We want to honor HIM in such a way that our lives always reflect HIS standard and holiness. It should deeply hurts us if we violate any of HIS commandments. 
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Individuals like Kamala Harris do not fear GOD. This is why it is so easy for someone like her to lie, cheat, steal, and mislead the masses. She is denying GOD before all men because of her political stance (Matthew 10:33). She has no fear of GOD! Therefore, just as she is denying Christ because of her lack of fear of Him, God (Christ) will deny her before His Father, who is in heaven.  
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​We cannot have our cake and eat it too. We cannot claim we live for Christ, love Him, or are Christians—His disciples—and then outright ignore His expectations, His Word, or His commandments. It does not work like that. 
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So, we have to ask ourselves: Can we truly proclaim ourselves to be Christians if we remain silent on things GOD has told us to expose and bring to light, whether good or bad? Let me say it this way from scripture, so none of you can say this is my opinion or that I’m being judgmental (Matthew 10:27). Matthew 10, starting at verse 34, says:  

As we draw ever closer to the Day of the LORD, we must go deeper. Deeper into HIS word, deeper into praise and worship, deeper into HIS presence. Our time with the LORD must become more deeper – extending beyond the surface. We must exit the outer court and press and enter into the Most Holy Place where GOD dwells in the midst of HIS people. This is where we will find our protection, provision, and even new direction in preparing for the Day of the LORD, the return of our Messiah.
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So, let’s go deeper today by understanding some upcoming world events. So that we can gain some insight and wisdom concerning what we ought to be doing to prepare for what is coming as well as increase our knowledge and understanding of Biblical prophesies, in hopes of gaining revelation. (Compare to 1 Chronicles 12:32; Hoses 4:6). 

COMING OF WW III?
Approximately two weeks ago, on Prophet Joshua Giles’ YouTube page, he described to us an upcoming war (WW III) that would be detrimental to America. This war will be fought in a way we have never seen before because it will employ advanced AI, biochemistry, pathogens (bacterium and virus agents that cause diseases), and cyber technologies.

In addition to the above, several countries will band together to come against America and open themselves up to be used by an ancient demonic prince of principalities called Abaddon (Hebrew name), also called Apollyon (Greek name), whose name means destroyer.
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If we go to Revelation chapter 8 and start at verse 1, it reads. 

When He opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given seven trumpets. Then another angel, having a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.

Now, turn to Revelation 9:1. Here we need to understand the angel that sounded the 5th trumpet, this trumpet blasts announces one of the judgments of GOD in HIS response to the prayers of HIS saints. ‘The prayers of HIS saints’ is a very important point that we are going to need to wrestle with as leaders who lead the congregation of GOD. We should clearly understand this point as you continue to read this discussion. 

​THE FIFTH TRUMPET BLAST
So as GOD’s angel blasts the 5th trumpet, we see a fallen star appear on the world scene that is released from the bottomless pit. As it appears, it comes under the covering of great smoke (like a furnace) that shields the brightness of the sun and the air by means of darkness (Revelation 9:2). Let’s talk about a few of these elements a little bit.

​Here smoke represents the deception many will encounter through this spirit that is released onto the world stage by this fallen angel, which we are already seeing and experiencing through the media such as ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX News, CNN, and other news outlets. We see it through individual platforms on social media accounts. We also see it in our government and its propaganda message to misinform (to give incorrect information), mislead (to direct in a wrong direction that will lead to a mistake in action or belief), and misdirect (to direct to go the wrong way) to the masses. It is even done from our pulpits.
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Then, “the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke.”  Joel describes it this way. 

A day of darkness and gloominess, A day of clouds and thick darkness, Like the morning clouds spread over the mountains. A people come, great and strong, The like of whom has never been; Nor will there ever be any such after them, Even for many successive generations. The earth quakes before them, The heavens tremble; The sun and moon grow dark, And the stars diminish their brightness.

This is a vivid depiction of the consequences of sin. That is, the coming judgment of the 5th trumpet being blown. As a result, myriads of locusts turn the sky black as night. MY GOD! As I read this scripture, it made me recall 2 dreams I had a few years ago. One is called The Invasion, which I had on November 25, 2022; and the other one is called, Unusual Vision, which I had on April 24, 2020.

At any rate, these locusts, once released, are unstoppable. They penetrate fields, crops, trees, cities, and even homes. We see this spirit is already creating havoc in our country at the southern border and in our cities' streets. This is just the beginning of its destruction.

Now, in verse 3 of Revelation chapter 9, it says these locusts are given ‘power.’ This power is the Greek word exousia (G1849), which means they are given permission to do as they please. This is a power of authority to exercise a right to create havoc due to the unrepentant behavior of man. These locusts are released because man refuses to get behind what GOD is doing in the earth. They have abandoned their CREATOR, which comes with a heavy penalty.
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Now, the power they are given is like the power of ‘scorpions’ (Revelation 9:3). Why scorpions? For one, despite its small size, a scorpion has a very potent and poisonous string. A scorpion’s string can cause extreme pain, paresthesia, swelling, toxic in the blood that can cause serious illness, and even death. This is created by means of these countless locusts, who are demonic beings (Compare to Exodus 10:12-15; Joel 1:1-2-11). They will torment for 5 months, creating havoc in the lives of men who did not have the seal of GOD on their foreheads. (See Revelation 9:4-5; also compare to Exodus 12:7-14). Their torment felt like being strung by a scorpion repetitively, which leads us to verse 11. 

​THE VALUE OF CORPORATE PRAYER MEETINGS
So, how do we overcome not only this spirit that is in the world today as well as Abaddon, upon his arrival on the world scene and experience victory? PRAYER! Believers must come together corporately and pray against this spirit that is dominating – taking dominion over our world today. Leaders in the church must set aside their pride, agendas, and the need to be THE IT and relevant man, woman, church, or ministry and collectively, call out to GOD in a solemn assembly, pleading to HIM for HIS mercy and forgiveness. They must call out on behalf of this generation. They as one Body must sincerely repent and mourn before a LIVING GOD. They must abandon their superficial religious services and practices, confess their sins before a LIVING GOD, and enter into HIS Most Holy Place with a sincere and contrite heart.

Let me explain something that some of you might not agree with and maybe even be disturbed by what I am about to say next.
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Go to Hebrews 10:24-25.
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And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
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The statement to ‘not forsake the assembling of ourselves together’ – what is it talking about here? We have to understand, that in most churches today, people are entering into these houses one way and coming out the same way. Remember, I spoke about ‘NO AUTHORITY, NO POWER, NO CHANGE’ in my blog post, Healing And Deliverance Ministry.

How can any leader declare, ‘the presence of the LORD is here!’, when there is no evidence of HIS power at work in that house? No change in the people present. No repentance. No sincere outcry to the LORD. No one has genuinely committed themselves to the LORD. Something is wrong with this picture.  

So, when Paul spoke about ‘not forsaking’ ourselves in the gathering with other saints, he is not talking about powerless social gatherings at church – whether it be a Sunday service where a pastor or some other leader is giving talking points about some fundamental Bible principle or moral standard of living. Nor is he talking about a routine Bible study group where a small group meets regularly to discuss elemental Bible principles. DON’T GET ME WRONG! These things are good within themselves and are useful tools for ministry. What Paul is getting at, at Hebrews 10:24-25 is a meeting where the presence of the LORD is in the midst of HIS people – that is, the Most Holy Place. A place where HIS presence and the manifestation of HIS SPIRIT cannot be ignored or denied access to operate according to HIS will. Where the people do not leave the house of GOD the same way they came. Where the people’s lives are changed forever by HIS grace, mercy, and glory.
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We have too many churches and ministries that are faking it – faking the Spirit and glory of a sacred GOD and that is blasphemy, an act of great disrespect shown to GOD, as well as deception (misleading others through lies and trickery).

So, exactly what kind of meeting is Paul referring to at Hebrews 10:24-25? Acts 2:42 says
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And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.
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Did you see that? The apostles were not only studying the scriptures (doctrine), fellowshipping, and breaking bread. They were at a prayer meeting. And I’m not talking about the typical 1 to 3-minute prayers we hear at the beginning and the end of a Bible study or service meeting. I’m talking about a legitimate Corporate Prayer Meeting.

This is the one essential and most sacred meeting we have that most churches and their leaders do not even host and have abandoned.
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Hebrews chapter 10, starting at verse 19 says to enter into the most holiest place by means of the blood of Jesus. It continues.
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By a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
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Paul is speaking of our most sacred meeting – the Prayer Meeting.
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We, as the Body of Christ cannot afford, all churches and ministries cannot afford not to place importance on our Prayer Meetings, collectively with all saints. We cannot be consumed or turned off by numbers – who do or do not show up. Corporate Prayer Meetings must be a priority by ALL churches, their leaders, and all who claim to be saints. Failure to do so means death for our local Body. 
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​THE MOST HOLY PLACE
Jesus has left us a gift that is more important and more powerful than the strings of a million scorpions. And this anointing is called prayer – corporate prayer to be exact. (Compare to Matthew 6:5-15). Therefore, entering into the Most Holy Place is the key meeting place to confront and push back this spirit of Abaddon (Apollyon) that is present in the world today.

One more question. So, why should Christians care about the locusts that have come onto the world scene if they will only hurt and kill those who do not have the seal of GOD (Revelation 9:4-5)? Because we are called to ‘make disciples of all the nations’ (Matthew 28:19). It is our civil and spiritual duty. Unbelievers are directly impacted by the effectiveness or lack thereof, our ministries and ministerial labor. Therefore, any Bible prophesies that directly affect unbelievers should interest us because we are in the best position to help people to be spared by the 5th trumpet sound and other trumpets of judgments. There is a way of escape for unbelievers, just like it was for families and individuals who joined the Israelites in their exodus from the tyrants of Egypt. Therefore, there is a way of escape from such destructive spirits as Abaddon that will come with its destructive plagues of locusts.
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To be effective in helping individuals, family members, and our community at large, especially unbelievers to escape the ill effects of Abaddon, we must make the Most Holy Place our dwelling place. Our #1 priority. The Most Holy Place is much deeper than our traditional and routine meetings on Sundays and Bible studies. The Most Holy Place is where we meet and have an encounter with GOD. This is the most sacred meeting we have that should trump ALL other meetings. So, why are we forsaking it?