Israel Intensifies Gaza Bombardment Amid Trump’s Visit – USA Today
Israeli military strikes killed at least 50 Palestinians in Gaza, escalating the conflict as former U.S. President Donald Trump visits the Middle East. Reports suggest Hamas military leader Mohammad Sinwar may have been killed in an airstrike, though confirmation is pending. Meanwhile, Islamic Jihad fired rockets toward Israel, prompting further military responses.
Israel’s Druze Leaders Call for Protection of Syrian Kin – AOL
Leaders of Israel’s Druze minority are urging the Israeli military to continue defending Druze communities in Syria following deadly clashes with Islamist militants. The Druze, who have strong ties to Israel, argue that protecting their Syrian counterparts is both a moral duty and a strategic necessity for Israel.
Hamas Welcomes U.S.-Israel Rift After Hostage Release – Newsweek
Hamas officials see potential in growing tensions between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The group recently released the last known American hostage in Gaza, a move seen as a political gesture ahead of Trump’s Middle East trip. Hamas hopes this shift could lead to negotiations to end the war.
Satan has been defeated. The resurrected, ascended, and returning Son of God is victorious.
But while we await the final execution of the serpent, he runs loose for a time, all pissed off, still doing his best to steal, kill, and destroy those created in the image of the Most High God.
Satan knows he’s toast, but he will continue to deceive and seduce people into bending the knee to him. Some of those people are foolishly ignorant and think it’s a game, but some know exactly what they’re doing and, like their master, they hate God.
A quick AI request for news and stats on Satanism and witchcraft in America returned the following results:
Witchcraft and Paganism Growth: The number of Americans identifying as witches has risen dramatically. Estimates suggest 1 to 1.5 million people practice Wicca or paganism, surpassing the 1.4 million members of the Presbyterian Church in the U.S.From Newsweek
Global Witchcraft Beliefs: A massive study found that 40% of people worldwide believe in witchcraft, translating to about 1 billion people across 95 countries. From Science Alert
Decline in Christianity: Younger generations are increasingly turning to alternative spiritual practices, including astrology, tarot, and Wicca, as they move away from traditional Christianity. From Newsweek
Rise of Witchcraft Among Millennials: Millennials are embracing witchcraft and occult practices as a form of spiritual freedom. Social media has played a significant role in popularizing these beliefs. From Newsweek
Academic Studies on Witchcraft: Research from American University highlights that witchcraft beliefs cut across socio-demographic groups, with education and economic security influencing belief levels. From Science Alert
Cultural Shifts: The “witch aesthetic” has gained popularity, with celebrities and activists embracing elements of witchcraft in their personal and public lives. From Newsweek
Jesus taught that the distribution system for aid to the poor and hungry consists of the intentional, voluntary acts of individual believers and private communities of faith (churches, synagogues, etc.) giving their time and resources.
He did not teach that government bureaucracies or political entities are God’s conduit for providing charity. Instead, Jesus taught that you are to give your money and time to the less fortunate—it is your personal responsibility to do so.
God does not intend for the government or politicians to use tax revenue as a proxy or substitute for Christian giving.
The current gimmick of saying, “You’re not very Christian,” that some are using to smear their fellow citizens for supporting or voting for politicians who seek to rein in profligate, bloated welfare spending is dishonest and shameful.
Government programs aren’t Christians—individuals are. Government tax revenues are not for the same purposes as the contents of a church collection plate, so labeling government spending priorities as non-Christian is a non sequitur.
Bible Rebel continues to keep a watchdog’s eye on events in the Middle East. That is not to say that we are watching for any fulfillment of biblical prophecy there, we keep our eyes and ears open to news that affects people of faith from every region around the world.
The Holy Land is of particular interest for three reasons:
It is a geographical crossroads, referred to by some the “Center of the Earth”.
It is also the historical birthplace of the two largest religions of the world; Christianity and Islam, as well as the ‘Father’ of both those religions – Judaism.
It is of major military and strategic importance because of oil production and logistics.
Are the biblical prophecies focusing on geographical locations in the Middle East, especially in and around current-day Israel, relevant to the Church in our times today?
Or will those prophecies only come to pass and be revealed in some future time after the destiny of the Church has been realized? This is a subject Bible Rebel will be exploring in some depth going forward. Stay tuned.
For now, here’s the latest from the Middle East.
Israel Strikes Near Syrian Presidential Palace
Israel conducted an airstrike near Syria’s presidential palace in Damascus, targeting the new Islamist-led government under interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The strike aimed to signal Israel’s commitment to defending the Druze minority amid escalating sectarian violence in Syria. From Reuters
US attacks Yemen port again; Houthis launch missiles at Israel
The Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV media outlet has reported that seven US strikes hit the Ras Isa oil port in al-Salif district in Hodeidah in the last few hours, where a US strike at the same port last month killed at least 80 people and wounded 150 in one of the deadliest attacks on the country by US forces.
Earlier Friday, the Houthis claimed responsibility for launching two missiles towards northern Israel, targeting the Ramat David military airbase and the Tel Aviv area, as the group continues its military pressure in solidarity with Palestinians under Israeli fire. From Al Jazeera
U.S.-Iran Talks Postponed
A fourth round of talks between the United States and Iran, scheduled to take place in Rome, has been postponed. An Iranian official stated that the new date depends on the U.S. approach, citing contradictory behavior and provocative statements from Washington. From Reuters
Netanyahu calls defeating Israel’s enemies the ‘supreme objective,’ not freeing hostages
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that defeating Israel’s enemies is more important than securing the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza.
While the prime minister acknowledged that freeing the 59 remaining hostages is a “very important goal,” he described Israel’s fight against its enemies as the “supreme objective” of the war.
“We have many objectives, many goals in this war. We want to bring back all of our hostages,” Netanyahu said. “That is a very important goal. In war, there is a supreme objective. And that supreme objective is victory over our enemies. And that is what we will achieve.” From CNN
Atlanta Pastor Apologizes for Remarks on Police Killings
A pastor in Atlanta issued an apology after controversial remarks blaming police killings on disobedience sparked backlash within his congregation and the broader Christian community. From Christianity Today
Aaron Renn’s ‘Three Worlds’ Theory Sparks Debate
Conservative commentator Aaron Renn’s framework for understanding Christianity’s transition from a socially desirable faith to one facing cultural opposition has ignited discussions among evangelicals and critics alike. From Baptist News
Islamic State claims pope’s burial is ‘marketing tool in theological war’ as it gains renewed strength
“The Islamic State has declared Pope Francis’ burial a “marketing tool in a theological war,” asserting that tributes paid to the late pope undermine Islamic beliefs. The terror group is concurrently experiencing a resurgence, raising concerns about its growing strength and influence in the Middle East.” From The Christian Post
Religious ‘nones’ outnumber Catholics and Protestants in Germany
For the first time in modern German history, more Germans identify as religiously unaffiliated than as Roman Catholics or Protestants, according to a new survey. From the Christian Post
Bible Rebel continues to keep a watchdog’s eye on news and events from the world of churchianity. In this article, we take a look at the process of choosing a new Pope, which is based on Roman Catholic ceremony and tradition – not scripture.
Papal Ceremonies and Biblical Doctrine
While the Catholic Church bases its teachings on scripture, many papal ceremonies are rooted in tradition rather than biblical doctrine. The conclave, the papal coronation, and the rituals surrounding the election are not explicitly found in the Bible. Instead, they evolved over centuries as part of the Church’s governance structure.
Critics argue that certain practices—such as the vesting of the Pope in elaborate robes and the use of Latin in official ceremonies—reflect historical customs rather than biblical mandates. However, the Church maintains that these traditions uphold continuity and reverence within Catholicism.
The selection of a new Pope is a momentous event, steeped in history and ritual. While the process is not biblically mandated, it remains a defining aspect of Catholic tradition.
The Conclave Process
The election of a new Pope follows a centuries-old tradition rooted in secrecy and ritual. When a Pope passes away or resigns, the College of Cardinals—a body of senior Catholic officials—gathers in Vatican City to elect his successor in a process known as a conclave.
The conclave typically begins 15 to 20 days after the Pope’s death. Cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, with the number of electors capped at 120. The process takes place in the Sistine Chapel, where the cardinals swear an oath of secrecy before casting their votes.
Each cardinal writes the name of their chosen candidate on a ballot, which is then placed in a ceremonial urn. The votes are counted, and if no candidate secures a two-thirds majority, the process repeats until a consensus is reached. After each round, the ballots are burned, producing either black smoke (indicating no decision) or white smoke (signaling the election of a new Pope).
Once elected, the new Pope is introduced to the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where he delivers his first blessing.
1 Peter 5:8 – Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. (KJV)
The roaring lion is loose in Nigeria.
The situation in Nigeria remains deeply troubling. Recent reports highlight ongoing violence against Christians, particularly in Plateau State. On Palm Sunday, suspected Islamist Fulani militias attacked Christian villages, killing at least 51 people.
“The coordinated assault targeted two predominantly Christian villages, with the worst carnage reported in Zikke village, Bassa County. Witnesses described a night of horror as gunmen stormed homes, setting them ablaze and killing entire families — including women, children, and the elderly — in what local leaders are calling a deliberate act of religious persecution.” From The Herald
The Continuing Violence, No End In Sight
This follows a series of brutal incidents, including the slaughter of over 60 Christians and the destruction of 383 homes earlier this month.
It’s going to be a wretched and fearful Easter for Christians in Nigeria. The killing and persecution of Christians by Islamist militants intent on creating a Muslim caliphate in this West African country is continuing apparently unchecked despite the population being 46% Christian. “Nigeria’s Christians are being wiped out; we need to call it what it is — genocide,” Jeff King, president of International Christian Concern (ICC), a persecution watchdog, told Fox News Digital. “Let’s start with the horrible attacks on April 2-3, 2025, in (Nigeria’s) Plateau State’s Bokkos County. Over 60 Christians (were) slaughtered, and 383 homes torched” King said. “Families were burned alive, and kids were left homeless. It’s gut-wrenching. The worst thing is that there’s nothing truly “special” about this attack. This has gone on for 20 years and has only expanded.” From Fox News
A Dark And Broken World
Why does God allow this kind of butchery to happen? Part of the answer is in 1 Peter 5:8, referenced at the beginning of this post. He expects us to be “sober and vigilant”.
We should always be aware that the roaring lion is seeking to devour us, so that we can be prepared, and so that we can cover ourselves and our brothers and sisters in prayer and intercession – and so that we can walk in wisdom and strength to avoid the lion, or destroy him and his attempts to devour us.
Someone recently told me that they hope I “find peace” someday.
How presumptuous.
I found peace a long time ago when I accepted the Prince of Peace.
To walk in faith doesn’t mean you’re supposed to be a door mat for others to walk on. And it doesn’t mean that you walk in fear of speaking up for your principles or doing what’s right according to those principles, even if that stirs the pot and ruffles some slippery feathers.
And let’s never forget our Lord’s words in Matthew 10:34, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.”
Yes, our battles are spiritual, but they manifest in the real world of flesh and blood.
We are not only light, but also salt. And salt can sting when put on a wound, and this world is wounded.
So, my peace is in Him – not in bending the knee for the sake of comfort, acceptance, and convenience to the wicked god of this age.
Ukrainian forces have reportedly targeted a Russian brigade responsible for a recent missile strike that killed civilians. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts between Russia and the U.S. continue, though peace talks remain challenging. – From Sky News
As Anti-Hamas Protests Gather, Christians Stay Away
“In a rare show of defiance, thousands of Gazans took to the streets of the northern city of Beit Lahia and other cities in the past few weeks, demanding Hamas step down and end the war. Videos from the protests, which started two weeks ago, show protesters chanting, “Out, out, out! Hamas get out!” and carrying banners with the words “Hamas does not represent us.” Demonstrations lasted three days before scattered protests resumed last week.“ From Christianity Today
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy Warns of Global Security Threat Amid Russia’s War
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed concerns that Russia’s ongoing invasion could escalate into a broader global conflict. He emphasized that the security of the entire world is at stake if Ukraine and its allies do not stand firm against Russian aggression. From CBS News
In Part 2 of this series we discussed some of what Jesus taught concerning the ‘Prosperity Gospel’, I and concluded with this:
Does he teach that you can’t or shouldn’t have more than the necessities? No, but our Lord’s message is clear that the desire for God’s righteousness is muddied and distorted when we focus on the riches of this age instead of His kingdom.
It’s impossible to have total reliance on God when one has lots of cash and cars and jets and Swiss bank accounts to fall back on, right?
Now, in Part 3, the final part in this series, we’ll look at Paul’s message in the epistles regarding how we are to view real wealth and success.
What did the Apostle Paul teach?
Paul’s teaching is an unambiguous refutation of the prosperity gospel. The Apostle Paul’s message was contentment in all circumstances, not a focus on seeking material wealth as a sign of divine favor.
Philippians 4:11-13 11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Christ’s strength is sufficient, whether we are wealthy or poor, and contentment in that strength alone is the true mark of godliness, not health and wealth.
Paul also warned us about false teacherswho equated godliness and divine favor with worldly wealth.
1 Timothy 6:5-10 5Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows
It’s very clear that Paul taught that equating faith with worldly success, fame, and wealth is spiritual error. And when ministers of the gospel choose personal gain over obedience, which may result in sacrifice, it is spiritual error doubled.
The bottom line, as I see it, regarding the prosperity gospel is simply this – faith and godliness cannot be measured by outward appearances like worldly wealth. A rich person is often spiritually poor, and a poor person is often spiritually rich.
Both Jesus and Paul taught that our focus is to be on the Kingdom of God and the restoration of all things in the coming age, regardless of our current status in this age. Period.
