Participants: Documentary..The Secrets, Spirits and Powers behind the martial arts.
Series Code: SF
Program Code: SF000050A
|
00:24 And there was war in heaven.
00:27 Michael in his angels fought against the dragon 00:29 and the dragon fought 00:31 and his angels and prevailed not. 00:34 And the great dragon was cast out, 00:37 that old serpent called the Devil and Satan, 00:40 the accuser which deceiveth the whole world, 00:43 he was cast out into the earth, 00:45 and his angels were cast out with him. 00:56 Well, he trained kids for years in self-defense, 00:59 now a martial arts instructor is defending himself in court, 01:03 accused of sexually assaulting a student. 01:51 Do you really believe in magic? 01:55 You mean, Chinese black magic? 01:57 Yes. 01:59 Oh, absolutely. 02:00 Are you still serious about this? 02:02 And monsters and ghosts as well, I suppose? 02:06 Oh, sure, and sorcery. 02:10 And I suppose that you expect me to believe 02:14 in sorcery as well? 02:16 Of course. 02:17 Why? 02:19 Because it's real. 02:20 How can I know that, Mr. Shen? 02:23 How? 02:24 Yes, how? 02:25 Help me out here. 02:28 Please, how? 02:36 See? 02:37 That was nothing. 02:39 But that's how it always begins, very small. 02:50 The floodgates of Eastern mysticism, 02:52 a new age thought were opened in the west 02:54 through cinema and literature, 02:57 focused on a generation searching for its identity. 03:00 With the cultural revolution, Woodstock and the Beatles, 03:04 martial arts, yoga 03:05 and the introduction of transcendental meditation 03:08 found a growing acceptance among baby boomers. 03:12 Television shows and films 03:14 such as David Carradine's Kung Fu, 03:16 The Green Hornet, Billy Jack and Bruce Lee's epic 03:20 brought the mystical powers of the martial arts 03:23 into the homes and lives of millions of Americans. 03:27 And a country once historically Christian 03:29 in background and belief 03:31 began to flirt with the ideologies 03:33 of the Far East 03:35 and little did we realize the price we would pay 03:38 for stepping on to this enchanted ground. 03:41 During the 1970s and '80s martial arts became mainstream 03:46 with the introduction of full contact karate 03:48 and kickboxing into the public, 03:50 the martial arts were now being promoted 03:52 not only a self-defense 03:54 but as a sport, as health and fitness, 03:57 and even as a family activity. 03:59 Martial arts, Tai chi, and yoga classes 04:02 began springing up in YMCAs and health clubs across the US, 04:08 and Hollywood in the printed page 04:10 brought secrets of the Far East 04:11 within reach of the imaginations 04:13 of millions of Americans 04:16 while promising them discipline, 04:18 self-confidence, self-control and self-esteem. 04:21 During the 1990s, 04:23 Chinese masters with their internal arts 04:25 of Tai chi, Bagua, Xing Yi, 04:28 and Qigong began publishing books 04:31 which revealed the methods of attaining 04:33 these once secret abilities of the martial art legends. 04:38 And there is now a growing interest 04:39 in the spiritual powers 04:41 and practices of these men of the East. 04:44 Even many celebrities and politicians 04:46 have revealed their active participation in these 04:49 and other mystical Eastern arts. 04:51 Today, the martial arts 04:53 seductively blended with metaphysics and psychology 04:57 has begun to take on a more scientific facade. 05:01 Once traditionally secret art are now being taught 05:04 as the means to achieve not only personal protection 05:08 but self-healing, self-awareness 05:11 and emotional regeneration. 05:14 Self-empowerment has become the God of this age. 05:18 A web of Eastern philosophy and mysticism 05:21 is being spread in an ever increasing attempt 05:23 to capture the hearts and minds of this last generation. 05:27 Through Hollywood, the film and entertainment industry 05:31 is weaving an illusion of the martial arts 05:33 being both scientific as well as spiritual. 05:37 And it is this blend of science and spiritism 05:40 which will prove to be the final omega of apostasy 05:44 which was foretold by the apostles of Jesus Christ. 05:48 I put the force into the movies in order to try to awaken 05:53 a certain kind of spirituality in young people. 05:59 More belief in God 06:00 than a belief in any particular, 06:04 you know, religious system. 06:05 I mean, the real question is to ask the question, 06:09 because if you have an enough interest 06:11 in the mysteries of life to ask the questions, 06:14 is there a God or is there not a God? 06:19 That's for me the worst thing that can happen. 06:22 You know, if you asked a young person is there a God? 06:24 And they say, "I don't know." 06:26 You know, I think you should have an opinion about that. 06:29 The question must be asked, a belief in what God. 06:34 "Who hath ascended up into heaven, 06:36 or descended down from above...? 06:39 Who hath established all the ends of the earth? 06:42 What is His name, and what is His Son's name, 06:45 if thou canst tell?" 06:48 And what is this mystery which Lucas and others 06:50 are spending billions to introduce 06:52 to the youth of our generation? 06:55 "Let no man deceive you by any means 06:58 for the mystery of iniquity doth already work." 07:02 According to the Chinese classic, The Tao Te-Ching, 07:05 "The Tao is like a well, used but never used up. 07:10 It is like the eternal void, 07:12 filled with infinite possibilities. 07:14 It is hidden but always present... 07:17 The Tao doesn't take sides, 07:20 it gives birth both to good and evil. 07:23 The Tao is called the Great Mother empty 07:27 yet inexhaustible, 07:29 it gives birth to infinite worlds. 07:31 It is always present within you... 07:34 and you can use it any way you want." 07:37 This spiritual energy called the Tao 07:39 or universal life force 07:41 is symbolized by the mystical figure 07:44 of the yin and yang, 07:46 and it is through this merging of light with darkness, 07:49 these two opposite yet supposedly equal powers 07:53 that harmony and the Tao is manifest 07:56 and spiritual gifts and abilities 07:58 are said to be achieved. 08:00 This description is identical 08:02 to that of the power used by the Jedi 08:04 and Sith warriors in the Star Wars film series. 08:08 This very same power is also called by them the force, 08:12 and it is this force of light and darkness of good and evil 08:17 which Lucifer claims to be. 08:20 It is this spirit and power 08:21 which has been worshiped by every occult 08:24 in pagan religion since the dawn of time. 08:28 Albert Pike, the author of Morals and Dogma 08:31 states this belief in unmistakable terms. 08:36 "Yes, Lucifer is god, and unfortunately Adonay 08:41 or the Lord Jesus is also God. 08:44 For the eternal law 08:45 is that there is no light without shade, 08:48 no beauty without ugliness, 08:50 no white without black. 08:52 For the absolute can only exist as two gods, 08:56 darkness being necessary to light... 08:59 Simply put... 09:01 pure philosophic religion 'is the belief in Lucifer,' 09:06 the equal of Adonay, but Lucifer, 09:09 god of light and god of good, 09:11 is struggling for humanity against Adonay, 09:15 the God of darkness and evil." 09:19 "And professing themselves to be wise, they became fools!" 09:23 "For if therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, 09:27 how great is that darkness!" 09:30 According to both Asian and occult philosophy, 09:33 this force or energy is said to dwell within all matter, 09:38 the rocks, the trees, the planets, 09:40 animals and every human being, 09:43 and although hidden it is said to be 09:46 only awaiting to be awakened. 09:49 And awakening which is achieved 09:50 through the practice of Eastern meditation, 09:53 breathing techniques, mantra chanting, 09:56 visualization, hypnosis 09:58 and countless other occult practices. 10:00 It is this spiritual energy 10:02 which all Eastern religions credit 10:04 as the true source of their power. 10:07 Although this mysterious power 10:09 is called by different names in every culture, 10:12 its principles and manifestations 10:14 are always the same. 10:16 For what is known as Chi by the ancient Chinese 10:19 is called Ki in the Japanese art of aikido. 10:23 While to the Hindu, 10:24 the same power is known as Prana. 10:27 To the Polynesian people, 10:29 it is called Manna or Mana energy. 10:33 And by many new age practitioners 10:35 in the West, 10:37 this spiritual power is called Orgone, 10:39 vibrational or subtle energy. 10:42 And the same spiritual energy today 10:45 is being used and promoted by a new age gurus worldwide 10:49 to martial artists across the world, 10:51 the cultivation, 10:52 control and demonstration of this energy 10:55 is considered the highest and most sought after ability. 10:59 Chi is said to be manifest through harmonizing 11:02 both positive and negative forces of the universe 11:05 within the human body. 11:07 This energy is then demonstrated 11:09 by martial artists in countless ways, 11:12 stone, brick or board breaking, 11:14 iron body exhibitions, 11:16 performing seemingly impossible feats 11:19 of acrobatics skill, 11:20 withstanding extremes of temperature, 11:23 exhibiting superhuman strength, 11:25 speed and explosive power. 11:29 And this same mysterious energy which is used by disciples 11:33 and masters of these combative arts 11:35 is also demonstrated 11:36 by Qigong and Reiki practitioners, 11:39 by acupuncturist, acupressurist, 11:42 Tai chi masters, yoga gurus and new age holistic healers. 11:47 To many this power is called the God spark 11:51 or cosmic consciousness, but regardless of its name, 11:55 this esoteric power is from one 11:57 and the same source that old serpent, the devil. 12:02 In the philosophy of yin and yang, 12:04 nothing is of itself considered to be inherently evil or wrong. 12:09 Everything is said to be good so long as it is used 12:12 to maintain balance of the Dao 12:15 and the greater good of the universe. 12:18 This then is the martial arts most subtle deception 12:21 for according to this philosophy 12:23 that which is called God, 12:25 owes its very existence 12:27 to the joining of light with darkness. 12:30 But the word of the Lord assures us, 12:32 "That God is Light, 12:34 and in Him is no darkness at all." 12:37 In this pagan philosophy, there are no absolutes 12:41 or as Aleister Crowley stated, 12:44 "Do as thou wilt shall be the whole of the law." 12:47 And this poor man, 12:48 who was a legend and an icon in the music and film industry, 12:53 spent the final hours of his life 12:55 in a state of hopelessness, dread and fear. 13:00 In these teachings truth becomes 13:02 merely the point of one's own perspective 13:05 and the serpent's whisper, 13:06 hath God really said, 13:09 can be as verily heard today as it was so long ago 13:13 and the shadow of doubt is cast upon Jehovah's holy word. 13:18 "Woe unto them that call evil good, 13:20 and good evil, 13:22 that put darkness for Light, and Light for darkness... 13:26 To the law and to the testimony of His Spirit: 13:29 If they speak not according to this Word, 13:32 it is because there is no Light in them!" 13:41 The symbols of the tiger and dragon 13:43 are as ancient as the martial arts itself 13:46 and familiar to all styles. 13:48 They are synonymous with the yin and yang 13:50 of Eastern mysticism and philosophy, 13:53 but what few understand is the role 13:55 which these two symbols play and the spiritual significance 13:59 which is revealed when joining them as one. 14:01 While the tiger represents 14:03 man's physical strength and power, 14:05 the earthly, carnal and unregenerate heart, 14:09 man's will to conquer. 14:11 It is the dragon which stands 14:12 as the symbol of the prince of the powers of the air. 14:16 Those principalities and powers of darkness 14:18 which now worketh in the children of disobedience. 14:22 It is this spirit of the dragon, 14:24 which the masters of the martial art hold 14:26 in such reverence and awe. 14:28 And it is this power 14:30 which is sought above all others. 14:33 While most western instructors 14:34 will emphatically deny any involvement 14:37 with the occult religions of the East. 14:39 When we watch the practices of these men and women 14:43 and compare their arts and the fruits thereof 14:46 with the Word of God, 14:47 there are serious questions which arise. 14:51 It's working. 14:52 This training is hard training. 14:55 It develops your mental faculties, 14:57 it turns into warrior and killer instinct. 15:01 We develop him as a warrior. 15:03 Jai Kali. 15:04 Kali. 15:06 It is common for these teachers to say 15:07 that they are able to divorce the physical arts 15:10 from their spiritual roots. 15:12 But according to high-level martial artists and masters, 15:15 this is a great deception. 15:17 When one looks closely 15:18 at the religious background of a style's founder, 15:21 you will discern the spirit 15:23 which inspired or inspirited that style, 15:27 and which influences its forms, techniques, 15:30 and methods of training. 15:32 The very spiritual DNA of a martial style 15:35 can never be separated or severed from its practice. 15:39 For out of the heart, the mouth speaks, 15:42 and through physical actions, the spirit is manifest. 15:46 The word of Almighty God says, 15:48 "By their fruits ye shall know them... 15:51 For how can two walk together, except they be agreed?" 15:54 Our very actions bear witness to the powers of God 15:58 which we live for, serve and obey. 16:02 A Christian instructor join to a pagan style 16:06 is spiritual adultery, unfaithfulness and apostasy. 16:11 I'm 100% Jesus. 16:12 God can see my heart. 16:14 People misunderstood, think, 16:16 "Oh, how a Christian can fight in MMA?" 16:18 Spinning hook. 16:19 Oh, and now Brando goes for the triangle choke. 16:22 Yeah, for sure, a Christian can fight in MMA, 16:24 a Christians can go to a war, a Christian can go, 16:27 we Christians, we are not different, 16:28 we are just Christians 16:30 and I see nothing wrong in that. 16:32 But do these thoughts agree 16:34 with the word of the living God. 16:36 And if this is correct, 16:38 then why does the Lord tell us through His Apostle John that, 16:42 "He would saith he abideth in Christ 16:45 ought himself also so to walk and live, 16:48 even as Jesus lived." 16:50 They call themselves warriors, 16:52 literally fighting the good fight of faith. 16:56 Never mind that the Gospel of Matthew quotes Jesus as saying, 16:59 "If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, 17:01 turn to him the other also." 17:03 Because tonight you're going to meet a group of Christians 17:06 who say, that by striking an opponent, 17:09 well, they're striking a blow for the Lord, 17:11 Ryan Owens has an encore presentation 17:13 from our series Faith Matters. 17:24 Fight breaks out. 17:28 But this isn't your grandfather's bar fight. 17:32 Hurt like little bit... 17:33 And then as soon as I tape you, let's pray. 17:35 And some of these fighters get Bible beaters. 17:38 Father, we just thank You 17:39 for the opportunity to go out tonight 17:42 and to train and compete and... 17:44 A whole new meaning. 17:45 The line of distinction between professed Christians 17:48 and the ungodly is now hardly distinguishable. 17:52 As Christians there are times 17:55 where you take shots. 17:59 That's where the Bible gives you your training. 18:05 We get all the time, I don't look like the typical pastor 18:07 and that's okay. 18:09 There's actually a cool verse in the Bible says, 18:10 "Be weary when all men speak well of you." 18:13 If everybody loves you, you're doing something wrong. 18:16 God, you have called us to a fight... 18:18 When Preston came up 18:19 with the idea of having a fight club in the church, 18:23 it was an easy thing to say, yes to. 18:27 Tough guys need Jesus too. 18:29 You guys like to see me fight another pastor? 18:30 No. 18:32 Or just be a couple of God fearing men 18:33 punching each other in the face. 18:35 Ladies and gentlemen, this is Pastor versus Pastor. 18:40 Tonight, we gotta fight 18:42 and then when we talk about Jesus tomorrow, 18:43 we go to church. 18:46 How many are yet walking in darkness 18:48 not realizing the high calling upon their lives 18:51 in Christ Jesus. 18:52 And this ain't love. 18:54 At the end of the day 18:55 it's about reaching people with the gospel, 18:56 regardless of what you need to do to introduce them 18:58 into a relationship with Jesus Christ. 19:01 Punch, punch, punch in the face. 19:03 Now go for the choke right there. 19:04 For he has promised us, 19:06 "That an elder must be blameless, 19:09 the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, 19:13 not self willed, not soon to anger, 19:16 but a lover of good men, 19:19 just, holy, and temperent in all things. 19:23 An elder must not be given to wine, not a striker, 19:27 but patient, and not a brawler. 19:30 Holding fast the faithful word, 19:33 so that he may be able by sound doctrine 19:36 and instruction to exhort and convince the gainsayers." 19:50 But the question is often asked, 19:52 what about self-defense 19:53 and what about the physical training methods 19:55 of these arts? 19:57 Can I not be a Christian 19:58 and yet still train in these arts 20:00 without their spiritual influences? 20:03 It is through actions repeated that habits are formed. 20:06 Habits which form our character, 20:09 and it is by character that our destiny 20:11 for time and eternity is decided. 20:14 If we are practicing daily to block and counter, 20:18 what will become our natural response 20:20 when meeting confrontation for opposition? 20:24 And what is the character 20:25 which these arts impart to their students? 20:29 "When pure knuckles meet pure flesh, 20:31 that's pure Karate, 20:33 no matter who executes it or whatever style is involved." 20:38 "When two tigers fight 20:40 one is certain to be maimed, and one to die." 20:44 "Jiujitsu is the gentle art. 20:47 It is the art where a small man is going to prove to you, 20:51 no matter how strong you are, no matter how mad you get, 20:55 that you're going to have to accept defeat. 20:58 That's what Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is." 21:00 "If we fight for money, 21:02 I'll stop hitting you when you ask me to. 21:05 If we fight for honor, 21:06 I'll stop hitting you when I feel like it." 21:09 "The heart of our karate is real fighting. 21:13 There can be no proof without real fighting!" 21:16 "Better to be a tiger for a day than a sheep for a life time." 21:21 Many parents enrolled their children 21:22 in the martial arts 21:24 with the hopes of them learning self-defense, 21:26 self-control and discipline. 21:28 But is this the reality of these practices? 21:31 Do the training and teachings of these Eastern arts 21:34 really lead to greater obedience and submission 21:37 to a parent's instruction in the Word of God? 21:40 Do students of these arts 21:41 typically grow closer in their walk 21:43 with the Lord Jesus Christ as they progress in rank? 21:47 Or do we see another character being formed, 21:50 one of pride, of independence and rebellion to authority? 21:56 "For even hereunto were ye called 21:59 because Christ also suffered for us, 22:02 leaving us an example, 22:04 that you should follow in His steps. 22:07 He who did no sin, 22:09 neither was guile and deceit found in His mouth: 22:13 Who, when He was reviled, 22:15 He reviled and retaliated not again. 22:19 When He suffered, He threatened not. 22:22 But committed Himself 22:23 on to the judgment of Him the judgeth righteously." 22:27 "Dearly beloved, I say, Avenge not yourselves, 22:32 but rather give place to wrath: 22:34 for it is written, Vengeance is Mine, 22:37 I will repay saith the Lord. 22:40 Therefore if thine enemy is hungry feed him, 22:43 if he is thirsty, give him to drink, 22:47 for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head 22:51 and his conscience shall be burnt. 22:54 Therefore... 22:55 Be not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good!" 23:01 The martial arts are being marketed today 23:03 as a family activity. 23:05 But the tradition behind this idea 23:07 would shock most students and parents 23:09 if they were told the truth when they joined. 23:12 Traditional Asian martial arts styles were based on family, 23:16 or clan secrets of warfare. 23:18 These secrets were not allowed to be spoken off 23:21 or shared outside the dojo or home of the master. 23:25 We will look at one such legendary founder of the arts 23:29 so that you may see and understand 23:31 the spiritual influences 23:33 which are working behind the scenes. 23:35 The man's name is Tatsuo Shimabuku. 23:39 He is the founder of Isshin-ryu karate. 23:42 It was during a vision given him in the 1950s 23:45 that Shimabuku saw the principles 23:47 of his art revealed 23:49 and under the inspiration of the Goddess Megami, 23:53 he founded his style of karate. 23:56 By the direct instruction of the spirit, 23:58 the Okinawan master drew a picture 24:00 of what he had seen in his vision 24:03 which later was duplicated 24:04 as the logo and symbol of the Isshin-ryu style. 24:08 And under the oversight of one of his disciples, 24:11 the artwork took form. 24:14 And the symbol of his art can now be seen 24:16 adorning tens of thousands of karate uniforms 24:19 and dojo's worldwide. 24:21 Look closely at the figures 24:23 represented in the emblem of his art. 24:26 The woman is an unnatural blending 24:28 or amalgamation of the human female 24:31 and a serpent. 24:32 Above her right shoulder is the image of a great red dragon 24:37 and three prominent stars. 24:39 The female image is shown rising up out of the abyss 24:44 and seated upon the stormy seas. 24:47 The symbolism is too exact to be mere coincidence. 24:52 "Come hither, I will shew thee the judgment of the great whore 24:56 that sitteth upon many waters... 24:58 and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet colored beast, 25:02 full of names of blasphemy, 25:04 having seven heads and ten horns, 25:08 and the waters which thou sawest, 25:10 where the whore sitteth, are peoples, 25:12 multitudes, nations and tongues... 25:15 And the woman which thou sawest is that great city 25:18 which reigenth over the kings, of the earth." 25:22 The original title given by the founder 25:24 for this symbol was Isshin-ryu no Megami 25:28 or the goddess of Isshin-ryu. 25:31 Megami, me means woman, 25:35 kami or gami is the Japanese word 25:39 for Shinto deity or God. 25:42 Isshin-ryu, is or ichi means one, 25:47 chief or first, shin means spirit or heart, 25:52 ryu means tatsu, dragon or way, 25:57 the goddess of the first spirit dragon. 26:00 Even the name of the founder 26:02 Tatsu Shimabuku was symbolic 26:04 of the style's ultimate goals and purpose. 26:07 Tatsu literally means in Japanese the dragon man. 26:12 He was given this title in honor of his enlightenment 26:15 and recognition by the pagan gods 26:18 in the founding of this art to him and the initiated few, 26:22 the final revelation of Isshin-ryu karate 26:26 is the way or path of uniting as one, 26:30 the spirit of the dragon and man. 26:34 And Shimabuku's art is not the only style 26:37 which reveals its true spiritual intent. 26:40 Ai-ki-do, the way of harmonizing with spirit. 26:45 Hap-ki-do, the path or way of unity with spirit. 26:51 Xing-yi-quan, mind, will and form boxing. 26:56 Bagua zhang, eight trigram or divination palms. 27:02 In each of these martial arts, real power is obtain 27:05 only by the transfer of spiritual energy, 27:09 for it is through the inspiration of the masters, 27:12 gurus and teachers 27:13 which is passed down to their disciples 27:16 that the dragon is working 27:17 to bring about his last great deception. 27:20 And it is through these countless millions of men, 27:23 women and innocent children which strive in their training 27:27 to imitate the role of their instructor 27:29 that an image is truly being formed. 27:32 Either we are being daily transformed 27:35 by the renewing of our minds 27:37 into the image of the Lord Jesus Christ, 27:40 or we are being slowly conformed and molded 27:43 into the image of this world and its first rebel leader. 27:48 Have you ever wondered why so many dojos 27:51 and martial studios require students 27:53 to remove their shoes when entering the school 27:56 or stepping on to the training floor? 27:59 Is it possible that these practices 28:01 reveal a deeper spiritual significance 28:04 than many have been led to believe? 28:06 "And the Lord God said unto Moses 28:10 Draw not nigh hither, 28:12 put off thy shoes from off thy feet, 28:15 for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground." 28:19 Are these schools being used 28:20 as the grounds upon which to worship Eastern pagan deities? 28:25 Look at their very names in the Asian languages 28:27 and let us listen to their own response. 28:30 Dojo, a place of the way. 28:33 Daochang, the place of enlightenment. 28:36 "Traditionally the Dojo is considered sacred ground 28:40 with its own special etiquette." 28:43 "To begin, every student 28:45 submits unquestionably to their teacher." 28:48 Submission is often represented symbolically 28:51 by the simple ceremony of bowing to the teacher!" 28:55 "Whatever the floor is made of be it cement, carpet 28:59 or an expensive mat, the way I present my answer, 29:02 when the student asks 'Why do we take off our shoes?' 29:06 Is that the student removes his shoes 29:09 to yield to the instructor's right to lead, 29:13 the instructor removes his shoes 29:15 because he too, yields to a higher power." 29:20 "The dojo is a destination. 29:23 It is a place to go. 29:25 It is sacred ground. 29:27 No one ends up in the dojo by mistake. 29:31 For many of us, it is like coming home...!" 29:36 "We bow to the front, 29:38 the showmen in honor of our ancestral heritage, 29:42 then we bow to the Sensei or master 29:45 as a gesture of respect for the teacher. 29:48 In addition to being a teacher of karate techniques, 29:51 the Sensei is a guide, a guide to illuminate the path 29:56 and lead the way for the student." 29:59 "The Sensei is the guiding light 30:01 because the Sensei serves such an important role 30:04 in shaping a student's development, 30:07 physically, mentally and spiritually, 30:10 the Sensei must possess 30:11 outstanding qualifications and abilities." 30:15 The titles of Sensei and Sifu are Asian in origin. 30:19 They refer to a teacher who has dedicated his life 30:22 to instructing his pupils in the martial way, 30:25 but the Lord Jesus Christ tells us, 30:28 "Be not called Rabbi: for One is your Master, 30:32 even Christ, and ye are all brethren. 30:35 And call no man 'Father' upon the earth: 30:39 for One is your Father, which is in heaven. 30:43 And neither be ye called masters for One is your Master, 30:48 even Christ. 30:49 For he that is greatest among you 30:52 shall be your servant. 30:54 For whosoever shall exalt himself 30:56 shall be cast down, 30:58 but those that humble themselves, 31:01 shall be exalted!" 31:03 Is not this the very character 31:05 which is seen in the martial arts, 31:07 that of pride and self exaltation. 31:10 The spirit that I saw, 31:11 when I accepted Jesus into my heart was different. 31:15 That spirit was one of love. 31:17 It was one of peace. 31:18 The spirit that I received from the masters 31:21 and I trained under some of the best in the world, 31:23 oh, that spirit was one of violence, 31:25 it was different, it was one of control, 31:28 it was one of mastery over another person. 31:31 It wasn't the same spirit in the Lord 31:33 that I can love that person for who they were, 31:36 not for what I knew and what I demanded of them so, 31:39 and that really is the attitude 31:41 of many people within the martial arts, 31:43 they lorded over those who were under them, 31:46 it becomes a superiority problem. 31:49 It becomes an issue that they want control, 31:52 they do have control over you in some sense, 31:55 of control and they want to emulate their instructor 31:59 and they want to give that person 32:02 something that they receive, 32:03 so it's a spirit that is passed down 32:05 from generation to generation 32:07 and each succeeding generation either becomes stronger 32:11 or they quit one or the other, 32:13 they're all looking for that power, 32:15 power over people, 32:16 the power of violence 32:18 and they want to emulate that power 32:19 in such a way that people will fear them 32:22 and it's the fear factor that most people don't understand. 32:26 And is this not the very character of Satan 32:29 before the fall from his exalted position in heaven. 32:32 "O how art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, 32:35 son of the Morning Star... 32:38 For thou hast said in thine heart, 32:40 I will ascend, I will exalt my throne, 32:45 I will sit upon the mount of the congregation... 32:48 I will be like the Most High." 32:52 Then we look and see the Son of Almighty God, 32:55 as He humbles Himself 32:57 and takes on the form of a servant, 32:59 that of a mere man. 33:01 And we see Him as He battles 33:03 with all the desires of our fallen nature 33:05 within His own human flesh. 33:08 And as He cries out for victory and strength 33:11 in the Garden of Gethsemane, 33:13 and He fell on His face and prayed 33:15 saying, "Oh my Father, if thou be willing, 33:19 remove this cup from Me, nevertheless not My will, 33:24 but thine be done." 33:26 And the same Lord in sovereign came 33:28 who sweat great drops of blood there in the garden, 33:31 fighting for you and I, 33:33 is the same who spoke from the heights of Sinai 33:37 with words which shook the earth like thunder." 33:40 "Thou shalt have no other gods before Me! 33:44 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, 33:48 or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, 33:52 or that is in the earth beneath 33:53 or that is in the water under the earth. 33:56 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, 34:00 nor serve and obey them." 34:04 Even on the most basic level, 34:06 the practice of the martial arts 34:08 contradicts not only the gospel of Jesus Christ 34:11 but also the very clear instructions 34:13 of His written word. 34:14 The Lord God Jehovah, Yahweh, Elohim 34:19 tells us that we are not to bow in humility, in obedience, 34:25 nor in service to anyone in place of our Creator. 34:29 For when man chooses to serve and obey another, 34:32 he is verily committing idolatry 34:34 as if a statue were standing right before him. 34:38 "The bow-in ceremony is based on a Shinto ritual 34:42 banishing evil spirits 34:43 and inviting the presence of the gods. 34:47 However, in the context of training, 34:49 students may think of this ritual 34:51 as banishing their own personal demons, 34:54 cleansing the mind of negative or distracting thoughts 34:58 and preparing for training. 35:00 They may envision summoning their best selves 35:04 to rise to the challenges of training 35:06 and extract the maximum benefit 35:09 and understanding from the teachings 35:11 they are about to receive. 35:13 The words spoken during the bow-in 35:15 and bow-out ceremony can be translated as, 35:19 'In every moment, 35:21 another chance for enlightenment.' 35:23 "Bowing to others is not about a sign of submission 35:27 but about recognizing the spark of divinity 35:30 in another fellow human being!" 35:33 "Bowing is one of the most humble and spiritual acts 35:35 a human can perform. 35:37 It is an action that simultaneously signifies 35:39 acceptance and a deep understanding of 35:42 and feeling toward its object. 35:45 Moreover, through this action, 35:47 we cast aside the narrow confines of the self 35:51 and we accept the energy of the universe." 35:55 "By bowing, we are giving up ourselves to the universe. 36:00 To give up ourselves means to give up our dualistic ideas 36:04 and become one. 36:05 When you become one with everything that exists, 36:09 you find the true meaning of being." 36:12 As we listen to these words, are we not once again 36:16 hearing the whispers of the serpent in Eden? 36:18 Which said, "Ye shall not surely die, 36:22 but ye shall be as gods?" 36:24 But thus saith the Lord God almighty, 36:27 'I have yet reserved unto Myself a remnant in Israel, 36:31 which have not bowed their knee to Baal...!' 36:35 For 'Sin is the faithless transgression of My law, 36:39 and... Verily, I say unto you, Whosoever continueth in sin, 36:44 is the slave of sin... 36:46 and the wages of sin is death. 36:49 A diligent study will reveal the true spiritual influences 36:53 which these masters receive for their styles 36:56 often while in a trance or a deep meditation 36:59 and worshipping their pagan deities. 37:01 And it is the same spiritual influence 37:04 which has been passed down from grandmasters, 37:07 masters and disciples to their students. 37:11 Most people in the western hemisphere 37:13 fail to realize the strong roles in family ties 37:16 which are prevalent in the Eastern cultures. 37:19 A grandmaster or founder is known as Sijo or Soke 37:23 and this title declares him to be the head of family 37:27 in an order of style. 37:29 Therefore, when a student joins a school, 37:31 they are taught through both example and instruction 37:35 to yield the highest honor, respect and obedience 37:40 to the head of their martial clan. 37:42 "When a master decides to teach a disciple 37:45 he not only takes on the role of a teacher 37:48 but also assumes the role of a parent." 37:52 Chinese people hold teachers in very high regard. 37:56 To begin, every student submits unquestionably 38:00 to their teacher. 38:01 They must be willing to empty their cup 38:04 of any previous misconceptions 38:06 and to accept the new teachings 38:09 no matter how disruptive they may be 38:11 to their personal worldview. 38:13 "This is just one reason 38:15 why it is important to begin with a good teacher. 38:18 Submission is often represented symbolically 38:21 by the simple ceremony of bowing to the teacher." 38:24 Whether to the instructor in the dojo 38:27 or to that man's master, 38:29 it is considered the highest disrespect 38:31 to fail to obey 38:33 any given instruction by this man. 38:35 A failure to comply in the traditional arts, 38:38 often even in lifestyle is frowned upon 38:42 and will hinder the student's progress 38:44 in training and the promotion of rank. 38:47 And as each student surrenders their will 38:49 and obedience to their sensei or sifu, 38:52 these masters in turn also bow in homage 38:56 before the grandmaster 38:58 and images of the style's founder. 39:00 Each one surrendering their will 39:02 in order to achieve greater skill, 39:05 and inspiration in their art, 39:07 and a higher position on the steps of the pyramid. 39:10 The spiritual hierarchy in the martial arts, 39:13 every stone set one upon another 39:15 and every rung in the ladder is achieved 39:18 by exalting self above others. 39:21 Every student and disciple bowing in reverence 39:24 and submission to the masters above. 39:26 And each one of these bowing to the man 39:29 enthroned upon the mountain summit. 39:32 For the Lord Jesus Christ says, 39:34 "The words that I speak unto you, 39:36 they are spirit and they are life, 39:40 to whom you yield yourself servants to obey 39:43 his slaves ye are to whom you obey 39:47 whether of sin unto death, 39:49 or of obedience unto righteousness and life." 39:53 And so it is that as men 39:55 listen to the voice of the great deceiver 39:57 and yield their bodies as servants to obey him, 40:01 it is then that they become pawns in the hands 40:04 of one they do not see. 40:06 They become the habitation of devils 40:09 and slaves to darkness and sin. 40:40 "Each and every master, 40:42 regardless of the era or the place, 40:45 heard the call and attained harmony with heaven and earth. 40:49 There are many paths leading to the top of Mount Fuji, 40:52 but there is only one summit... 40:55 The divine is not something above us. 40:59 It is in heaven, it is in the earth, 41:02 it is inside us. 41:04 The art of peace I practice 41:06 has room for each of the world's eight million gods, 41:11 and I cooperate with them all." 41:14 So to whom does this man the abbot 41:16 and head of Shaolin Temple bow and pay homage? 41:20 And of whom are the figures and images which surround him? 41:23 It is they, the fallen ones, 41:26 the image of those angels cast down out of heaven 41:29 by the Lord Jesus Christ, 41:31 from whom this man receives his power and abilities. 41:34 And what is the sanctuary, 41:37 where this man worships before his pagan deities? 41:41 The figures which you now see are those found in a shrine 41:44 known at the Shaolin temple as Mahwari 41:47 or the hall of the three Buddhas. 41:50 It is here that the temple monks direct their worship. 41:54 But who is the central figure 41:56 and what is the symbolic gesture 41:58 which we see formed by his right hand? 42:00 Why do we see the very same symbols 42:02 which are associated with Wicca, black magic, 42:05 secret societies and even the rock-and-roll industry 42:09 also being displayed with Hindu, 42:11 Buddhist and Taoist idols, 42:13 some dating back more than a thousand years. 42:16 Is there a connection? 42:18 Are the same spirits which work behind the scenes in one 42:22 also influencing the other? 42:24 And who is the bearded figure 42:26 which we see standing at his far outer right, 42:30 his name is Bodhidharma or Damo 42:33 which in Chinese literally means Hairy Devil. 42:37 He is the patron saint of the Shaolin Temple 42:40 and Chan Buddhism. 42:41 He is also the 28th 42:43 in a long lineage of disciples and teachers, 42:46 springing from the founder of the Hindu Buddhist religion. 42:50 Bodhidharma brought his revised version of Hinduism 42:53 from India to China in the year 464 AD. 42:57 And legend tells us 42:59 that it was he who taught the monks of Shaolin Temple, 43:03 the methods of physical movement 43:05 combined with meditation 43:06 to enhance their spiritual abilities. 43:09 Through Hindu breathing exercises 43:12 and yoga, mantra chanting, 43:14 visualization techniques and kata, 43:17 the monks were said to develop almost supernatural psychic 43:20 and physical powers. 43:22 So we see that it was not the strict diet of rice 43:26 and vegetables which gave rise to the Shaolin monks 43:29 notoriety in the world of combative arts. 43:32 Neither this is simply due to their rigorous training regime 43:35 that these Buddhist warriors and their temple 43:38 are known as the world's birthplace 43:40 and source of all martial styles. 43:43 But their unique abilities are credited 43:45 to a more elusive and spiritual power 43:48 something working subtly in the things 43:50 they were taught by this Hindu priest. 43:54 After his death, legend has it that the monks of Shaolin 43:57 found a set of writings 43:59 that were left hidden within the temple wall or his tomb 44:02 in which he gave detail yet cryptic instructions 44:06 written in his own native Sanskrit tongue 44:09 on the way and its power, 44:11 exercises which would enable the masters 44:14 and their future disciples to reach Nirvana 44:17 and enlightenment. 44:19 It is these writings known as the muscle tendon changing, 44:23 marrow brainwashing classics 44:25 which are revered among martial artists worldwide. 44:28 And it is these which form the foundation 44:31 of all modern martial forms kata, qigong and training. 44:38 There are many who begin training in these Eastern arts 44:41 and say they will practice only the physical disciplines, 44:45 laying their Eastern spiritual influences to the side. 44:48 But according to the founders, 44:49 grandmasters and gurus of these arts, 44:52 this is not only impossible but futile in its attempt, 44:56 it verily cannot be done. 45:00 "When an old man is able to defeat many attackers, 45:03 how could it be due to his strength." 45:07 "We live in two realms, two dimensions 45:10 the spiritual and the material. 45:13 So to live an effective life, both aspects must be addressed. 45:18 The spiritual contains the real power 45:21 but the natural is the trigger to release it. 45:24 The two must work in harmony!" 45:28 "One of the greatest gifts of the martial arts is that 45:30 they ultimately guide us to new levels of spirituality." 45:36 "Always more vital to karate than techniques or strength 45:40 is the spiritual element that lets you move and act 45:44 with complete freedom." 45:46 In striving to enter the proper frame of mind, 45:49 Zen meditation is of great importance. 45:52 The man who wants to walk the way of karate 45:55 cannot afford to neglect Zen and spiritual training." 46:00 But what saith the word of God? 46:02 "Blessed are the undefiled in the Way, 46:05 those who walk in the law of the Lord." 46:08 So how are these men claiming to serve Jehovah 46:11 and yet walking after the steps of another master? 46:15 "Spiritual development is paramount, 46:17 technical skills are merely a means to the end... 46:21 You may train for a long time, 46:23 but if you merely move your hands and feet 46:26 and jump up and down like a puppet, 46:28 learning Karate is not very different 46:30 from learning a dance. 46:32 You will never reach the heart of the matter, 46:35 you will have failed to grasp the Quintessence of karate-do." 46:40 Quin-tes-sence an interesting word, 46:43 "The 5th and highest 'element' 46:44 in ancient and medieval philosophy, 46:47 that is said to permeate all nature, 46:50 and all matter, 46:52 and is the substance composing all celestial bodies. 46:56 In physics, 46:57 it is the hypothetical form of 'dark energy,' 47:00 the 5th fundamental force, the 5th element. 47:05 And by the ancient Greeks, it was this force 47:07 which was thought to fill the universe 47:09 and hold and bind all things together." 47:13 Are we not hearing echoes of the same philosophy 47:16 in the media and films today? 47:19 For my ally is the force. 47:22 And a powerful ally it is. 47:26 Life creates it, makes it grow. 47:31 Its energy surrounds us and binds us. 47:36 Luminous beings are we... 47:38 Not this crude matter. 47:41 You must feel the force around you. 47:44 Here, between you... 47:47 me... 47:48 the tree... 47:50 the rock... 47:51 everywhere! 47:52 Yes, even between land and ship! 47:57 It is this elusive spiritual energy, 48:00 which the Taoist and Buddhist priest 48:02 spend their lives seeking to invoke and harness. 48:06 Are these mystical abilities 48:08 only the figment of the imaginations of Hollywood? 48:11 Are they not mere fantasy that make believe? 48:15 But we must remember that fiction often lies 48:18 closest to the path of truth, 48:20 else it has no power to deceive. 48:23 Since the beginning of Earth's history, 48:25 Satan, that old serpent has told mankind 48:28 that we have within ourselves the very powers of divinity, 48:33 that we need look no further nor higher 48:35 than our own mind and consciousness 48:37 for the wisdom and powers of a God 48:40 and that through the joining of light with darkness 48:43 and partaking of that forbidden tree. 48:46 Mankind may complete the final step 48:49 of his evolution into godhood. 48:52 But the devil is a liar and the father of all lies. 48:55 For it is through 48:57 the ministration of fallen angels 48:58 that all these miraculous feats of strength 49:01 and skill are achieved. 49:03 And it is for this purpose alone that the devil entices, 49:06 men, women and even little children 49:09 to compromise with evil. 49:10 And thus, opening the doors wide to the power and influence 49:14 of the forces of darkness. 49:16 The Hindu gurus have a word 49:18 for this merging of flesh with spirit. 49:20 It is called Avatar and literally means 49:24 the manifestation of the fallen ones 49:26 or those which came down from the heavens. 49:29 Is this just coincidence that a major film production 49:32 was recently released by the same title? 49:35 And is this the reason 49:37 we see such a barrage of mystical teachings 49:39 and terminology in the media updates today? 49:44 Is Satan preparing mankind 49:45 for the coming of his final and greatest deception, 49:48 one which the scriptures declare 49:50 will if possible deceive even the very elect 49:54 with all power, signs and lying wonders. 49:57 The magicians of heathen times 49:59 have their counterpart in the mediums, 50:02 the clairvoyance 50:03 and the fortune tellers of today. 50:05 Could the veil be lifted from before our eyes? 50:08 We should see evil angels employing all their arts 50:12 to deceive and to destroy. 50:15 I saw the rapidity 50:16 with which this delusion of spiritualism was spreading. 50:20 A train of cars was showing me 50:23 going with the speed of lighting, 50:25 the angel bade me, look carefully, 50:28 look carefully, as I fixed my eyes upon the train 50:32 it seemed that the whole world was on board. 50:35 Then he showed me the conductor, 50:37 a fair stately person 50:39 whom all the passengers looked up to in reverence. 50:43 I was perplexed and I asked who it was? 50:46 He said, he is a Satan, he is the conductor 50:50 in the form of an angel of light 50:52 and he has taken the world captive. 50:55 "They have been given over to strong delusions, 50:58 to believe a lie... 50:59 and they are heading with lightning speed 51:02 to perdition! 51:03 This delusion will spread, 51:05 and we all shall have to contend with it face to face 51:09 and unless we are prepared for it 51:11 we shall be ensnared and overcome. 51:14 The people of God must be prepared 51:16 to withstand these lying spirits 51:18 with the Truth from the Word of God!" 51:28 Yoga, to yoke or to join in union with the Hindu gods. 51:35 Through the martial arts, Tai chi and yoga, 51:37 the doors being open for the introduction 51:40 and the acceptance of many mystical practices. 51:44 When women come together and you let go off the judgment 51:47 and just be together as women and brief together as women, 51:50 truths come out, ritual happens, connection. 51:59 Yoga is the state where you are needing nothing, 52:02 but you feel whole and complete. 52:06 I would say it will save your life. 52:08 It will change your life. 52:09 It will make you so much more accepting of yourself. 52:15 Yoga has in the last two years really exploded for Americans. 52:19 A lot of folks swear by it, some Christians, 52:21 they believe there is actually a real problem with yoga. 52:23 Michael Galanos is here with today 52:25 as he get to the point. 52:26 Anyway you bring us these hot button topics in with morals, 52:28 faith, values. 52:29 What do we have here? 52:31 All right, let's find out, Erica had mentioned it's big, 52:32 17 million of you out there practice yoga. 52:36 But again, Erica mentioned it, some Christians, 52:39 one in particular says a Christian should not do yoga. 52:42 He's Pastor John MacArthur; 52:43 he is pastor of Grace Community Church, 52:46 also host of the radio show Grace to You. 52:48 He joins us now. 52:50 bottom line, basically you can't get the physical benefits 52:53 without incorporating the spiritual roots of yoga. 52:55 We'll talk with John MacArthur in just a minute. 52:57 Also joining us is the pastor who completely disagrees 52:59 and says, "Hey, doing yoga is okay, Doug Pagitt. 53:02 His church in Minneapolis 53:03 actually offers a class in yoga. 53:05 But let's start with you John MacArthur. 53:07 All right, let's say, I do decide to try yoga, 53:09 head to the local gym, give it a shot. 53:11 What am I opening myself up to spiritually that could go 53:14 against my Christian faith? 53:16 Well that would depend on how the yoga is conducted. 53:19 If it's just purely exercise, and you're a strong Christian, 53:22 it probably wouldn't have any impact on your faith. 53:25 But in the big picture, 53:26 why would Christians want to borrow an expression 53:30 from a false religion, from pantheism, 53:33 god is everything, you're god, everything is god, 53:36 when we believe there's only one true God, 53:37 the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 53:40 Why would we need to import that? 53:41 If you want to exercise, exercise. 53:43 But why borrow a term 53:45 that has been part of a false religion for centuries? 53:47 Doug Pagitt, let's get you in on this. 53:49 And as we do, I want to read the definition 53:51 from Webster's on yoga. 53:53 It says, "It's a Hindu theistic philosophy 53:57 teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, 53:59 and will in order that the self may realize 54:01 its distinction from them and attain liberation." 54:04 Kind of tough one to cipher 54:06 but on a spiritual front for a Christian, 54:08 that does not sound like Christ-centered faith to me. 54:10 On the surface of that definition, 54:13 what's going on here? Help us out. 54:15 Well, for people who perform yoga, 54:18 what they're normally trying to do 54:20 is to find a whole and complete and healed life. 54:23 So when people participate in yoga, 54:25 most of them aren't on some kind of a yoga agenda. 54:28 What they're trying to do is use 54:29 whatever practices they can find 54:31 that would help them have a whole and complete life. 54:33 And for a Christian, 54:34 that's certainly what we're after. 54:36 The Jesus agenda is a whole life, 54:38 is a complete life, is a healed life. 54:40 So when people use it to relieve stress, 54:42 to be healthy in their relationships, 54:44 to feel good in their body, that's a really good thing. 54:47 Is all yoga bad yoga for the Christian? 54:50 Well, let me just respond to what I've been hearing. 54:53 That doesn't sound anything like Christianity. 54:56 If you want a whole life, 54:58 if you want your life to be what it should be, 55:01 you don't put yourself in some weird physical position, 55:04 empty your mind, 55:05 center on yourself and try to relieve your stress. 55:09 You go to the Word of God, to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, 55:13 you embrace in faith 55:15 the sacrifice of Christ in His death 55:16 and resurrection as your savior and redeemer. 55:19 God comes, regenerates you, transforms your life, 55:23 makes you a new creation, 55:24 and you're saved and you're on your way to heaven, 55:26 and you can live a life of peace and joy. 55:28 That's the promise of the gospel. 55:29 There is no contribution made to that 55:32 by any physical position or any kind of meditation. 55:37 The idea of Christianity is to fill your mind 55:40 with biblical truth and focus on the God who is above you. 55:44 That's Christian worship. 55:45 The idea of yoga is to fill your mind 55:48 with nothing except to focus on yourself 55:51 and try to find the god that is inside of you. 55:53 From a Christian viewpoint, that's a false religion. 55:57 And it is the goal of all yoga practice, 56:00 regardless of name or methodology 56:02 to relax the body, 56:04 to open the mind and let down the guard. 56:08 And it is that which the Hindu yogis call 56:10 the Great Serpent Spirit. 56:12 According to ancient Hindu text, 56:14 this Spirit lives within every human being from birth. 56:19 Thus inviting the spirit to awaken 56:21 from its coiled slumber below the navel 56:23 and climb the spiral staircase 56:26 to the throne of the human will. 56:28 A throne which is said to reside at the third eye 56:32 or frontal lobe of the human mind. 56:35 Within every human lies a divine cosmic energy 56:38 called Kundalini. 56:40 Almost every tradition speaks of it in one form or another... 56:44 In Japanese it is called Ki, in Chinese it is called Chi. 56:50 The scriptures of Christianity call it the Holy Spirit. 56:54 What is Kundalini? 56:56 It is the power of the self! 56:59 The power of consciousness. 57:02 "Kundalini is Shakti, 57:04 the supreme energy whom the sages of India worship 57:08 as the mother of the universe. 57:10 It is only when the Kundalini is awakened 57:12 that we become aware of our true nature, 57:15 of our greatness, 57:18 of the fact that not only do we belong to God, 57:21 but we are God." 57:24 "When one acquires the strength of Kundalini, 57:26 one no longer remains a bound, limited creature, 57:31 one achieves total union with God." 57:35 But which god are they speaking off? 57:38 I don't think there's a way 57:39 to kind of close your world again, 57:41 once it's opened, it's opened. 57:44 One of the wonderful things about yoga as a practice, 57:47 is that we really become connected 57:50 to our authentic self. 57:55 If you go back to the mat every day 57:56 because it's a practice 57:58 and you will see the miracles unfold, 57:59 I mean it's so often in a physical pose or asana. 58:01 You will breathe in 58:03 and suddenly everything will be clear. 58:05 People are trying constantly to find peace, 58:10 to find that power, 58:12 to find inspiration their own inner beauty. 58:18 It's no coincidence that yoga is really popular today 58:21 because the world needs yoga right now. 58:25 The reason why so many people practice yoga is 58:31 because it tastes good. 58:36 Thus the martial artist and yoga practitioner 58:39 is said to achieve enlightenment 58:41 and Nirvana beginning the path to immortal life. 58:45 But this is that same lie 58:47 which the ancient serpent spoke to Eve in the Garden of Eden. 58:51 Thus saying, "That by faith was disobedience 58:54 and rebellion to the word of Jehovah 58:57 and partaking of that forbidden fruit 58:59 of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, 59:02 ye shall not surely die but ye shall be as God." 59:07 Satan wove in a labyrinth web of deception, 59:11 twisting and distorting the word of Yahweh. 59:14 And today the very same lie 59:16 is being spoken through the senseis, gurus, 59:19 masters and instructors of the Eastern mystical arts. 59:23 Taste and see they say, 59:25 for in the day ye thereof your eyes shall be opened 59:29 and ye shall be as Gods, 59:31 knowing both light and darkness, good and evil. 59:37 Is this the enlightenment which Jesus lived, 59:40 suffered and died to give His people? 59:43 Is this that mystery 59:44 which He rose again from the dead, 59:46 the third day to freely impart? 59:49 Now I beseech you brethren, 59:50 "I would have you wise unto that which is good, 59:53 and simple concerning evil!" 59:57 This is the ultimate purpose of the Eastern mystical arts, 01:00:01 the joining and merging of humanity 01:00:03 with the forces of darkness. 01:00:05 Millions are being deceived by the ancient dragon 01:00:08 as they are told that we are on the brink 01:00:10 of the final evolution of mankind. 01:00:12 And in this final step, we will achieve Godhood. 01:00:16 As man is delving into the occult practices 01:00:19 of the Eastern religions, 01:00:20 in his effort to see beyond the veil 01:00:23 of our physical world, 01:00:24 the doorway is been opened to spiritual forces 01:00:27 and powers of which the Bible has warned us 01:00:30 in no uncertain terms. 01:00:32 Spiritualism takes many forms in the Eastern arts 01:00:35 but all of these regardless of how they are clothed 01:00:39 are about the working of demons upon the human mind. 01:00:43 The Greek work for sorcery is a magician 01:00:47 or an oriental scientist. 01:00:49 Do we not hear many of these occult skills now 01:00:53 falsely being called science? 01:00:56 Although, these esoteric skills were once reserved 01:00:59 for only those who would spend their lives in the dark arts. 01:01:02 Now in this end of this age 01:01:04 when the powers of darkness see that time has almost run out, 01:01:08 the dragon is working to make this abilities 01:01:11 not only desirable 01:01:13 but available to all who are willing to yield to his voice 01:01:16 and take that step onto enchanted ground. 01:01:20 "Hear the word of the Lord, O house of Israel," 01:01:23 Thus saith the Jehovah, 01:01:25 Learn not the ways of the heathen, 01:01:27 and be not intrigued by the signs of the heavens, 01:01:31 for the heathen are dismayed at them. 01:01:33 Thou shalt not learn to do 01:01:35 after the abominations of these heathen nations. 01:01:39 There shall not be found among you 01:01:41 any one that maketh his son or daughter 01:01:43 to pass through the fire, 01:01:45 or that useth divination to foretell the future, 01:01:49 or an enchanter, or a witch, or a charmer, a hypnotist, 01:01:55 or a consulter with familiar spirits, 01:01:58 nor a wizard, or a necromancer, 01:02:01 one who speaks with the dead. 01:02:04 For all that do these things 01:02:05 are an abomination unto the Lord Yahweh." 01:02:17 Practices which are rooted 01:02:18 in the pagan religions of the Far East 01:02:20 are now becoming popular 01:02:22 among health and medical communities 01:02:24 which claim to be healing rather than combative in nature 01:02:28 and that which was once called witchcraft 01:02:30 only 50 years ago is now being widely accepted 01:02:34 as an alternative form of medicine. 01:02:37 Cloaked in garments of pseudoscientific terminology 01:02:40 many health food stores, chiropractors, 01:02:43 and even western medical doctors 01:02:45 are now incorporating traditional Chinese medicine 01:02:48 and ancient Hindu healing techniques 01:02:50 as part of their practice. 01:02:52 Acupuncture, acupressure, Ayurveda, iridology, 01:02:57 energetic kinesiology, reflexology, magnetism, 01:03:02 and hypnosis 01:03:03 are now being recommended 01:03:05 as a safe means to recovering and maintaining health. 01:03:09 But we would do well in taking heed 01:03:11 to Jehovah's instructions to avoid profane 01:03:15 and vain babblings and oppositions of science 01:03:18 which are falsely so called. 01:03:21 Today, many Christians are turning back to Egypt 01:03:24 in seeking relief from pain and physical disease 01:03:27 rather than simply seeking help 01:03:29 from the Word of the living God. 01:03:32 The mysteries of heathen worship 01:03:33 are being replaced by secret associations 01:03:37 and seances. 01:03:38 The obscurities and wonders of spiritualistic mediums 01:03:42 and the disclosures of these mediums 01:03:44 is being eagerly received by thousands 01:03:47 who refuse to accept light from God's word. 01:03:51 Believers and spiritualism may speak with scorn 01:03:54 of the magicians evolved 01:03:56 but the great deceiver laughs in triumph 01:03:59 as they yield to his arts under a different 01:04:01 or more modern form. 01:04:04 The apostles and followers of nearly all form of spiritism 01:04:08 claim to have power to cure disease. 01:04:11 They attribute their powers to electricity, magnetism, 01:04:15 the so called sympathetic remedies, 01:04:18 or to the laden forces within the mind of man. 01:04:22 There are many who shrink with horror 01:04:24 from the thought of consulting spirit mediums. 01:04:27 But who are attracted 01:04:28 by the more pleasing forms of spiritism, 01:04:31 form such as the Emmanuel Movement, 01:04:34 Christian Science, theosophy, and other oriental religions. 01:04:40 Through a flood of spiritualistic teachings 01:04:42 from Hollywood and the printed page, 01:04:44 Satan is working in this final generation 01:04:47 with a fierceness such as never before. 01:04:50 The dragon is fighting to blind the eyes 01:04:53 and the minds of all mankind. 01:04:55 So that we might not see and comprehend 01:04:57 the glad tidings of Christ 01:05:00 which is according to the scriptures 01:05:02 the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes. 01:05:08 Working through infiltration 01:05:09 rather than by a direct funnel attack, 01:05:12 millions are now being swept away into a religion 01:05:15 which requires no blood atonement, 01:05:17 no cross, no personal sacrifice, 01:05:20 no death to self the world or their flesh. 01:05:25 "For if our gospel be hid, 01:05:27 it is hid to them that are lost... 01:05:29 In whom the god of this world 01:05:31 hath blinded the minds of them that believe not, 01:05:34 lest the Light 01:05:35 and revealing of the glorious glad tidings of Christ, 01:05:38 who is the image of God, should shine unto them." 01:05:43 So it will be in the great final conflict 01:05:45 between righteousness and sin while new life, light, 01:05:49 and power are descending from on high 01:05:51 in the lateral rain upon the disciples of Christ. 01:05:55 A strange force is springing up from beneath 01:05:57 and energizing the agencies of Satan. 01:06:01 Intensity is taking possession of every earthly element 01:06:05 and with a subtlety gain through centuries of conflict, 01:06:08 the prince of evil works under a disguise. 01:06:11 He now manifest himself cloth as an angel of light. 01:06:16 In the days of Christ, 01:06:17 the leaders and teachers of Israel 01:06:19 were powerless to resist the work of Satan, 01:06:23 for they were neglecting their only means 01:06:25 by which they could have withstood the evil spirits. 01:06:29 For it was by the word of God 01:06:31 that Christ overcame the wicked one 01:06:34 and it is by His work that we also are to overcome. 01:06:39 "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, 01:06:41 and by the word of their testimony, 01:06:44 and they loved not their lives, even unto death." 01:06:47 For with the heart man believes unto righteousness, 01:06:51 and with his mouth profession is made unto Salvation." 01:06:56 The leaders of Israel professed to be expositors of God's word, 01:07:01 but they had studied it 01:07:03 only to sustain their traditions. 01:07:05 By their interpretation, 01:07:06 they made God's word express sentiments 01:07:09 that God had never given. 01:07:11 Their mystical construction made indistinct, 01:07:14 that which the Lord had made plain. 01:07:16 They disputed over insignificant technicalities 01:07:20 and practically denied the most essential truths 01:07:23 and thus infidelity and the seeds of doubt 01:07:26 were scattered everywhere. 01:07:28 God's word was robbed of its power 01:07:31 and evil spirits worked their will. 01:07:34 Today, history is repeating with the Bible open before them 01:07:38 and professing to reverence its teachings. 01:07:41 Many of the religious leaders of our time 01:07:44 are destroying faith in it as the Word of God. 01:07:49 They busy themselves with dissecting the word, 01:07:52 setting their own opinions above its plainest statements. 01:07:56 In their hands God's word losses its regenerating power 01:08:00 and this why infidelity runs riot 01:08:03 and iniquity grow so widespread. 01:08:11 And so it is 01:08:12 that when Satan has undermined faith in the Bible, 01:08:15 he then directs men to other sources 01:08:17 for light and power, thus he insinuates himself. 01:08:22 Those who turn from the plain teaching of Scripture 01:08:25 and the convicting power of God's Holy Spirit 01:08:28 are thus inviting the control of demons. 01:08:32 Criticism and speculation concerning the scriptures 01:08:35 have opened the way for spiritism and theosophy. 01:08:38 Those modernized forms of ancient heathenism 01:08:41 to gain a foothold even in the professed churches 01:08:45 of our Lord Jesus Christ. 01:08:47 For side by side 01:08:48 with the preaching of the gospel, 01:08:50 agencies are working 01:08:52 which are but the medium of lying spirits. 01:08:55 Many a man tampers with these merely from curiosity 01:09:00 but seeing evidence of the working 01:09:02 of a more than human power, 01:09:04 he is Lord on and on 01:09:06 until he is controlled by a will stronger than his own. 01:09:11 Many church leaders of every denomination 01:09:14 are now being trained 01:09:15 in what is called spiritual formation, 01:09:18 practices which have been taken 01:09:20 from the works of Eastern mystics 01:09:21 and Ignatius of Loyola, 01:09:24 and these men are now leading our churches 01:09:26 in the acceptance 01:09:27 of an emerging new form of Christianity 01:09:30 through the practices of Lectio Divina, 01:09:33 contemplative prayer, centering prayer, meditation, 01:09:37 spiritual drumming, and other ancient spiritual exercises. 01:09:43 For me serenity is prayer, 01:09:45 to come into the presence of mystery 01:09:49 and sit with attention, in attention, reverence, 01:09:53 gratitude need not be spoken, we don't have to use the words. 01:09:58 What would I do with words 01:10:00 when I try to remind God as something God for God? 01:10:04 When you completely be mindful of this present moment 01:10:07 and recognizing that its depth, 01:10:09 its mystery is deeper than any thought you have 01:10:14 that any feeling that you have, 01:10:15 it's hard to find words for this, 01:10:17 that's when you feel that you are held, 01:10:20 that you are sustained, 01:10:22 that what you really are is deeper 01:10:26 and what you think you are, 01:10:28 or than anything anybody says you are, 01:10:33 it's deeper and that reality is the Christ spirit, 01:10:36 that reality is our Buddha nature 01:10:39 that's what really happen. 01:10:41 Many honest Christians 01:10:43 are now being led into the snare 01:10:45 of that old serpent 01:10:46 and the apostasy foretold by the Holy Scriptures 01:10:50 in these last days. 01:10:51 "Now the Spirits speaketh expressly, 01:10:54 that in the latter times some shall depart 01:10:57 from the faith giving heed to seducing spirits, 01:11:00 and the doctrines of devils... 01:11:02 But this know also, 01:11:04 that in the last days perilous times shall come. 01:11:08 For men shall be lovers of their own selves... 01:11:11 Having a form of godliness, 01:11:13 but denying the power thereof... 01:11:15 I tell you from such turn away!" 01:11:19 All of these practices are deeply rooted 01:11:22 in the occult philosophies 01:11:23 of Asia's three primary religions. 01:11:26 And each of these religions 01:11:28 share five common principles or doctrines. 01:11:32 The first being the doctrine of reincarnation, 01:11:35 and the immortality of the soul. 01:11:38 The second is pantheism, 01:11:40 the teaching that God is an energy 01:11:42 or force which resides within all matter. 01:11:46 The third is known as the principle 01:11:48 of the divine spark or the Godhood of all mankind 01:11:52 waiting to be revealed 01:11:54 through pagan and occult initiation. 01:11:57 The fourth principle is the doctrine of evolution, 01:12:01 the teaching that mankind is only a higher form of animal 01:12:05 not created in the likeness of God 01:12:07 but in that of the brute beast 01:12:09 and now slowly evolving 01:12:11 through spiritual exercises in the Godhood. 01:12:14 And the fifth and most fundamental 01:12:17 of all is that principle of yin and yang. 01:12:21 The belief of the dualistic nature of all things 01:12:25 that there are no absolutes 01:12:27 and each of these five teachings 01:12:29 stand in direct opposition to a clear thus saith the Lord. 01:12:34 Today, they are coming into educational institutions 01:12:37 and churches everywhere, 01:12:38 spiritualistic teachings 01:12:40 that undermine faith in God and in His word. 01:12:44 The theory that God is an essence and energy 01:12:47 or force pervading all nature is now being received by many 01:12:51 who profess to believe the scriptures. 01:12:53 But however beautifully clothed, 01:12:56 this theory is a most dangerous deception. 01:12:59 It misrepresents Jehovah 01:13:01 and is a dishonor to His greatness and majesty. 01:13:04 It tends not only to mislead but to debase man, 01:13:09 for darkness is its element and sensuality its sphere. 01:13:13 The result of accepting this philosophy 01:13:16 is separation from God 01:13:18 and a fall in human nature this means ruin. 01:13:23 These spiritualistic theories concerning God make His grace 01:13:27 and divine influence of no effect. 01:13:30 For if God is an essence 01:13:31 which pervades all nature then He dwells in all men. 01:13:35 And in order to attain holiness, 01:13:38 man has only to develop the power within himself. 01:13:42 These theories, if follow to their logical conclusion 01:13:45 sweep away the entire plan of salvation, 01:13:49 they do away with a necessity for the atonement 01:13:52 and they make man his own savior. 01:13:55 These theories regarding God make His word of no effect 01:13:59 and those who accept them 01:14:00 are in great danger of being finally led 01:14:03 to look upon the whole Bible as a fiction. 01:14:07 The spiritual exercises of Ignatius 01:14:10 resound with almost identical philosophies 01:14:13 as those of the Hindu, 01:14:14 Taoist and Buddhist religions. 01:14:16 The occult principles of his writings 01:14:19 are being thought not only in yoga 01:14:21 and Tai Chi classes 01:14:22 but now also in many contemporary spiritual retreats 01:14:27 as well as spiritual formation 01:14:29 in emergent church leadership programs. 01:14:31 It should come therefore as no surprise 01:14:33 that the Roman church has even recognized Buddha 01:14:36 as one of our own under the name St. Josaphat. 01:14:41 For the word Catholic literally means universal 01:14:44 and as the universal church, 01:14:46 she welcomes with open arms 01:14:48 all religious beliefs into her fold. 01:14:51 So long as they recognize the Roman pontiff 01:14:54 as the highest spiritual authority upon this earth. 01:14:57 So what is the purpose and gathering into one 01:15:00 all the religions of the world? 01:15:02 And how is the art of war 01:15:04 being used to promote a thousand years of peace? 01:15:08 "And in the latter time of their kingdom, 01:15:10 when the apostasy has come to the full, 01:15:13 a king of fierce countenance, 01:15:15 and understanding dark sentences, shall arise. 01:15:19 And his strength shall be mighty, 01:15:21 but not by his own power. 01:15:23 For the dragon shall give him his power and his throne, 01:15:27 and great authority! 01:15:28 And he shall destroy marvelously 01:15:31 through signs and wonders and shall prosper, 01:15:34 and shall accomplish, 01:15:35 and he shall destroy the mighty and the holy people. 01:15:39 And through his knowledge also he shall cause craft, 01:15:43 treachery, subtlety and deceit to prosper in his hand. 01:15:48 And he shall magnify himself in his heart, 01:15:50 and by peace he shall destroy many." 01:15:55 "Church members love that which the world loves, 01:15:58 and are ready to join with them 01:16:00 and Satan determines to unite them in one body, 01:16:04 and thus strengthen his cause 01:16:06 by sweeping all into the ranks of spiritualism. 01:16:10 Papists who boast themselves of miracles 01:16:13 as a certain sign of the true church, 01:16:15 will be readily deceived by this wonder working power 01:16:19 and Protestants, 01:16:21 having cast away the shield of Truth 01:16:23 and faith in the Word of God, will also be deluded. 01:16:28 Papists, Protestants, and worldlings will alike 01:16:31 will accept the form of godliness 01:16:33 without the power, 01:16:34 and they will see in this union a grand movement 01:16:37 for the conversion of the world, 01:16:39 and the ushering in 01:16:41 of the long expected millennium." 01:16:43 And what is this message, 01:16:45 which is to prepare mankind for a coming new age of peace 01:16:49 in order to have world harmony, 01:16:51 all mankind must acknowledge equality of all faiths. 01:16:55 One cannot be said to be better or worse than another, 01:16:59 neither can one be said to hold the truth 01:17:02 and all others be in error. 01:17:05 All the religious leaders and founders 01:17:06 of every age must be recognized 01:17:09 and acknowledged as divinely inspired, 01:17:12 and all influenced by that same spirit. 01:17:16 Are we seeing this happen in the media today? 01:17:19 When I was 10 years old, I asked my mother, I said, 01:17:23 "Well, there is only God, 01:17:25 why are there so many religions?" 01:17:27 And over the years 01:17:29 I've been pondering that question ever since 01:17:31 and it would seem to me 01:17:32 that the conclusion I've come to 01:17:34 is that all the religions are true, 01:17:37 they just see a different part of the elephant. 01:17:46 According to the grandmasters 01:17:47 and the founders of the Eastern arts, 01:17:50 the ultimate purpose of all martial systems is peace. 01:17:55 First it is said by creating peace or harmony 01:17:58 between heaven and earth 01:18:00 within the man and then in creating peace 01:18:03 between all of mankind, 01:18:06 with the crisis facing our world today 01:18:08 through continued and ever larger natural disasters, 01:18:11 the crumbling of financial empires, 01:18:14 epidemic outbreaks of disease and plague, bloodshed, famine, 01:18:18 and war, humanity is searching, 01:18:22 desperately searching for an answer 01:18:23 to this world's dilemma, 01:18:25 a solution to the world's calamities, 01:18:28 a safety in the coming storm, 01:18:31 a savior if you will to lead all mankind 01:18:35 into a thousand years of peace. 01:18:38 And just such a being will appear, 01:18:41 one who is clothed in light 01:18:43 and manifest himself with miraculous powers 01:18:46 of reconciliation, healing, and peace. 01:18:50 He has been expected for generations 01:18:52 by all of the major religions. 01:18:54 Christians know him as the Christ 01:18:56 and expect His eminent return. 01:18:59 Jews await him as the Messiah. 01:19:02 Hindus look for the coming of Krishna. 01:19:05 Buddhists expect him as Maitreya Buddha. 01:19:08 And Muslims anticipate the Imam Mahdi. 01:19:13 Although the names are different, 01:19:15 many believe they all refer to the same individual, 01:19:19 the world teacher 01:19:20 whose personal name is Maitreya. 01:19:25 "World peace must develop from inner peace. 01:19:29 Peace is not just the absence of violence. 01:19:32 Peace is the manifestation of human compassion... 01:19:36 The very name 'Maitri' means 'loving kindness'... 01:19:40 in today's world, we really need maitri, Maitreya, 01:19:45 loving kindness." 01:19:48 Are these just the sentiments of a few new age mystics? 01:19:52 Or is there a spirit working behind the scenes 01:19:54 to bring all the world together as one. 01:19:58 1997, in Washington DC, Dr. Sun Myung Moon 01:20:04 established the Martial Arts Federation 01:20:06 for world peace, 01:20:08 for the purpose of building world peace 01:20:10 by encouraging all martial artists 01:20:12 to work together. 01:20:14 It has tried to transcend all differences 01:20:17 that exists between people who practice martial arts. 01:20:21 "The Federation respects all martial arts 01:20:23 and is dedicated to bringing about unity 01:20:26 and co-operation for a bigger purpose, 01:20:29 namely world peace." 01:20:33 "Since war begins in the minds of men, 01:20:36 it is in the minds of men 01:20:37 that defenses of peace must be constructed." 01:20:42 "From my own personal training and experience, 01:20:45 I think the first step towards world peace 01:20:48 is personal peace. 01:20:50 One thing about this organization 01:20:51 that I find very interesting is its emphasis on the concept 01:20:55 of creating a moral society, a strong society. 01:21:01 Because of my experience in Asia, 01:21:03 the original martial arts were formed 01:21:06 for the purpose of creating a safe and stable society." 01:21:11 "The martial arts are truly a unifying force 01:21:14 in our troubled world today. 01:21:16 Aside from religion itself, 01:21:18 the martial arts comprise the one philosophy 01:21:21 which brings the inner goodness and strength 01:21:24 that everyone possesses... 01:21:26 to the surface. 01:21:27 Both in one's own life, 01:21:29 and to inspire the best in others." 01:21:32 "Why can't all the people of the planet 01:21:34 live together in harmony? 01:21:36 I just don't know. 01:21:38 There have been three big walls 01:21:40 that have caused wars throughout history. 01:21:42 They are national, religious, and racial walls. 01:21:47 The day the people of the world agree 01:21:49 to construct one universal country, 01:21:53 one universal religion, 01:21:55 and one universal human race 01:21:58 by everyone becoming color blind, 01:22:01 everyone on this planet 01:22:02 will be happy with every breath of life." 01:22:06 It is interesting to note that in order to obtain peace, 01:22:09 these men practice fighting 01:22:11 and in order to gain harmony within, 01:22:14 the martial arts teach combat, domination, 01:22:17 pride and control. 01:22:19 However, if we practice fighting 01:22:21 in order not to fight, 01:22:23 if we practice striking 01:22:25 in order to develop self-control, 01:22:28 if we practice retaliation in order not to retaliate, 01:22:33 there is something terribly wrong 01:22:35 with our spiritual world view. 01:22:37 This is exactly the product 01:22:39 of the Eastern, Taoist, Buddhist, 01:22:40 and Hindu philosophies. 01:22:42 The fruit of that forbidden tree, 01:22:45 for light becomes darkness, error becomes truth, 01:22:49 and that which is declared as evil 01:22:51 by the word of Jehovah 01:22:52 is now looked upon as being good. 01:22:56 The teachings and doctrines, and practices 01:22:58 of the martial arts Tai Chi and yoga 01:23:00 are in direct opposition to the Word of God 01:23:04 and through these arts, 01:23:06 man is being led into rebellion against his creator 01:23:09 by transgression of God's Holy Law 01:23:12 and His instructions and righteousness. 01:23:15 We are bringing upon ourselves 01:23:17 and all of the world the sure results 01:23:19 of our own arrogance and pride. 01:23:22 Humanity under the influence of that great serpent, 01:23:25 the devil is striving to revive the ancient empire of the sun. 01:23:29 And under global cooperation to rebuild a temple to the gods 01:23:34 and place upon its throne a new world leader, 01:23:38 a teacher who will guide 01:23:39 all mankind into a thousand years of peace. 01:23:43 "But of the time and seasons, brethren, 01:23:45 ye have no need that I write unto you. 01:23:48 For you yourselves know perfectly 01:23:50 that the day of the Lord 01:23:51 so cometh as a thief in the night. 01:23:54 For when they shall say, Peace and safety, 01:23:58 security then sudden destruction cometh upon them, 01:24:02 as travail upon a woman with child, 01:24:04 and they shall not escape!" 01:24:09 "This 'end of an age' inevitably produces 01:24:12 a certain number of natural disasters 01:24:14 such as floods and earthquakes, 01:24:16 and we are seeing a dramatic climax 01:24:19 in the number of disasters taking place around the world. 01:24:23 Maitreya says, "The last time I came, 01:24:26 as Jesus, it was written in the Bible 01:24:29 that when I appeared again 01:24:31 the very elements of nature would be disturbed. 01:24:35 After the disasters have peaked 01:24:36 there will come a period of calm, 01:24:39 the violence and destruction will come to an end. 01:24:42 As people gain awareness, their guilt will recede." 01:24:47 "But ye brethren, are not in darkness, 01:24:50 that that day should overtake you as a thief... 01:24:53 For ye were some-times darkness, 01:24:55 but now are ye light in the Lord... 01:24:59 Walk then and live as children of the Light." 01:25:03 "Let no man deceive you by any means: 01:25:06 For that day of the Lord shall not come, 01:25:09 except there come a falling away 01:25:11 an apostasy first, 01:25:13 and that man of sin, 01:25:15 the transgressor of Jehovah's law be revealed, 01:25:19 the son of perdition, 01:25:21 who opposeth and exalteth himself 01:25:23 above all that is called God, or that is worshipped. 01:25:27 So that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, 01:25:32 shewing himself that he is God." 01:25:36 "The Protestants of the United States 01:25:38 will be foremost in stretching their hands 01:25:41 across the gulf to grasp the hand of Spiritualism, 01:25:45 they will reach over the abyss to clasp hands 01:25:48 with the Roman power..." 01:25:50 Bothers and sisters, Luther's protest is over, 01:25:53 is yours? 01:25:58 In 1999 this was signed by the Lutheran Church, 01:26:03 the federation worldwide. 01:26:04 Later but five years later 01:26:06 the worldwide Methodists signed the same agreement, 01:26:09 but as of today we still have had no protest in evangelical 01:26:12 that will stand up and sign this agreement. 01:26:15 "...and under the influence of this threefold union, 01:26:18 this country will follow in the steps of Rome 01:26:21 in trampling on the rights of conscience. 01:26:24 As Spiritualism more closely imitates 01:26:26 the nominal Christianity of our day, 01:26:29 it has greater power to deceive and to ensnare. 01:26:33 Satan himself is converted, 01:26:35 and after the modern order of things, 01:26:37 he will appear as an angel of light. 01:26:40 Through the agency of Spiritualism, 01:26:42 miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, 01:26:46 and many undeniable wonders will be performed. 01:26:50 And as the spirits will profess faith in the Bible 01:26:53 and manifest respect for the institutions 01:26:56 of the Roman church, 01:26:57 their work will be accepted 01:26:59 as a manifestation of divine power." 01:27:03 I've told you, you'd never forget it. 01:27:08 Yeah. Wow! 01:27:11 I tell you, I'm telling you right now, 01:27:15 heaven is real over this. 01:27:18 Hallelujah. 01:27:20 You know what? 01:27:22 You know what's so thrilling to me? 01:27:23 I mean, when we went into the ministry 47 years ago, 01:27:26 this was impossible. 01:27:28 The closing chapters of the Book of Revelation 01:27:30 tell us that there will soon be one final stand 01:27:33 between the children of light and the forces of darkness. 01:27:37 And it is for this last great and decisive battle 01:27:40 that the dragon is preparing his armies. 01:27:43 For not alone will Satan and his fallen angels fight 01:27:46 for dominion of this earth, 01:27:48 men also will have their part to play. 01:27:51 And truly this can be seen all around us today 01:27:55 through the medium of secular literature, 01:27:57 popular magazines, video games, 01:28:00 music, and movies, 01:28:02 we are witnessing an entire generation of men, 01:28:05 women, and little children 01:28:06 being conformed into the image of this fallen world. 01:28:10 And through the avenues of the soul, 01:28:12 many are yielding themselves 01:28:14 to the influence and control of demons. 01:28:17 Little do they realize the forces 01:28:18 working behind the scenes for their destruction 01:28:21 and it is these spirits once exalted as angels of God, 01:28:25 who are now joining and working within the hearts and minds 01:28:29 of the children of disobedience, 01:28:31 for they are the spirits of devils working miracles, 01:28:34 which go forth unto the kings of the earth 01:28:36 and of the whole world to gather them 01:28:38 to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 01:28:43 "Fearful sights of a supernatural character 01:28:46 will soon be revealed in the heavens, 01:28:48 in token of the power of miracle working demons. 01:28:52 The spirits of devils will go forth 01:28:54 to the kings of the earth 01:28:55 and to the whole world, to fasten them in deception, 01:28:59 and urge them on to unite with Satan 01:29:01 in his last struggle 01:29:03 against the government of Heaven. 01:29:05 By these agencies, rulers, 01:29:08 and subjects alike will be deceived." 01:29:11 Through the martial arts, yoga, and Eastern mysticism, 01:29:14 the door has been opened to the spirits 01:29:16 and religious practices of the East. 01:29:18 And now in this final generation, 01:29:21 the dragon is tempting all mankind 01:29:24 to taste of that forbidden tree, 01:29:26 the knowledge of which brings darkness, 01:29:28 guilt, shame, and bondage to sin. 01:29:32 Through the modern media, popular fiction, 01:29:34 Eastern healing techniques, 01:29:36 and the practices of spiritual formation 01:29:38 that old serpent, the devil is blinding man's eyes 01:29:42 to the absolute verity 01:29:44 and unfailing truth of God's word 01:29:47 of the character of our Father in heaven 01:29:49 and of His great love and power to set the captives free. 01:29:54 By casting his shadow between men and the light 01:29:57 shining from the pages of the scripture, 01:29:59 Satan is seeking to destroy men's faith 01:30:02 in Jehovah's word, 01:30:03 and thus severing him from his only means of salvation, 01:30:07 redemption, deliverance, and healing. 01:30:10 It is through the blending of light and darkness, 01:30:13 truth and error, 01:30:14 good with evil that the dragon is leading men 01:30:17 in open rebellion against our creator. 01:30:20 And through the transgression of his holy law, 01:30:23 Satan is preparing all mankind for his last great deception, 01:30:28 an event prophesized by scripture, 01:30:30 which will take the whole world as an overwhelming surprise. 01:30:35 But today, the door of mercy is still open 01:30:38 and the Lord is calling to every man, woman, and child. 01:30:42 If ye will only hear his voice, he is saying, "My son, 01:30:47 my daughter give me your heart, 01:30:50 choose ye this day whom ye will serve. 01:30:53 But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!" |
Revised 2017-04-20