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Spiritual Warfare, Angels, Demons, and How to Find Truth

Spiritual Warfare, Angels, Demons, and How to Find Truth

In the aftermath of my program Spiritual Warfare: Angels, Demons, Quantum Physics, and Your Brain, I have received a lot of feedback—some positive, some confused, and some negative. 

As I have reflected on the critiques raised by many about the program, I have realized that much of the disagreement stems from the fact that we are not all drawing our understanding from the same database. It is a given that if we are drawing our conclusions from different sources of information containing divergent data, then we will necessarily be unable to come into agreement. Thus, our first priority in addressing these issues is to determine the data set that we find “authoritative,” the standard by which both our own ideas and other sources of information will be tested against.

My position (bias) is that the 66 books of the Bible are our scriptural standard, and whatever conclusions we make must be consistent with them and not contradict them. Further, in a variety of ways, Scripture teaches that God has provided three threads of evidence that are to be harmonized for us to come to accurate understandings. (See my blog The Old Testament, Modern Teaching, and the Integrative Evidence-Based Approach.) These three threads of evidence are:

  1. the 66 books of Scripture (written revelation)
  2. God’s designs laws built into the fabric of reality (science and nature)
  3. and life’s experiences (how things actually work).

Our goal is to find truth in which all three of these facets agree. I demonstrate this in many places, such as my talk entitled The God-Shaped Brain and my book The God-Shaped Brain: How Changing Your View of God Transforms Your Life.

One of the truths of Scripture is the overarching story arc, the promised Messiah of Genesis 3:15. Throughout history, all the way up until Christ’s victory on the cross, Satan and his forces actively warred against God and His plan, attempting to destroy those people who were working with God—the avenue through whom Messiah would come. That war was physical at times, with the various nations attacking Israel and Judah, but more important, it was a spiritual war with constant attacks through not only pagan worship, but also false prophets with false prophecies and false scriptures, such as with Balaam (Numbers 22, 23; 2 Peter 2:15) and the prophets of Baal, but also the false prophets who claimed to be prophets of Yahweh (1 Kings 22:13; Jeremiah 14:14, 23:25–28; Ezekiel 13:3–6; Micah 3:5).

As the false prophets and their false scriptures were accepted and used by God’s people, the errors they taught became filters applied to understanding the Bible, and the truths of the Bible were corrupted by the people who relied on these false Scriptures to explain the Bible.

An example of this error is recorded in the New Testament, when Jesus confronts the Pharisees on their practice of Corban, which was the custom of declaring one’s property dedicated to the temple upon one’s death; that property could then not be used to care for one’s own parents, only themselves. You can find Jesus’ condemnation of this practice in Mark 7:11. But from where did this practice come? From the Mishna (written Jewish oral tradition and rabbinic literature), (Mishna [Ned III. 6; IX] states that anything set apart as a qorbān), a false tradition from false scripture, which was used to misinterpret the Bible and lead people to practices that were contrary to God’s design of love and trust.

Jesus rightly condemns Corban and, in drawing this contrast, affirms that other writings, ideas, and practices are to be judged by the inspired Word of God, not the other way around, which is confirmed in many places in the Bible (e.g., Isaiah 8:20). If we allow other traditional writings, apocryphal, and pseudo-apocryphal books to be used as source material, then we bring errors into our understanding of Scripture. And if any of these other writings were inspired by Satan and his minions, then our understanding of the Bible becomes corrupted, something the Bible warns will happen at this time in human history:

The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons (1 Timothy 4:1 NIV84).

Therefore, I recommend to any of those who disagree with what I have presented and want to engage in meaningful study of this vital topic that we determine our conclusions on this subject only by what we can document, demonstrate, and confirm by the 66 books of the Bible, harmonized with science/nature and life experiences.

If someone is concerned that my inclusion of quantum science and brain science is not from Scripture and, therefore, believes it is okay to bring in other non-Scriptural writings, like the pseudo-Apocrypha, I would counter that there are three types of threads of evidence as described above: Scripture (written material), science and nature (God’s creation and the laws upon which life functions and operates), and our personal experiences with God (how things work). The Bible teaches us to integrate the three different types of evidentiary threads as Jesus did with His parables and illustrations. But any non-biblical written material must be tested by the 66 books and not the other way around.

We should reject explanations of science only when they contradict Scripture. We won’t ever have to reject science itself because when it is rightly understood, it always harmonizes with God’s Word. However, we will find many scientific explanations that must be rejected because they contradict the Bible—like the theory of godless evolution, which suggests that science teaches there is no God and that we evolved from lower life forms.

If there is concern that my presentation of the science in some way contradicts Scripture, I eagerly request evidence documenting this because my goal is always to deliver the purest presentation of truth, of reality, possible, and I sincerely want any misunderstanding, error, or false conclusion removed from what I present.

Therefore, I ask those who may disagree with my presentation, and who would like to help me improve my understanding, to use the only dataset that I find authoritative, the 66 books of the Bible, harmonized with science/nature and life experiences. If other writings are used, as I did with Luther in my presentation, those other writings are not used to interpret the Scripture and do not supersede Scripture, but are simply used to document the fact that my conclusions of what the Scripture teaches are not mine alone, just as the Luther quote I used demonstrated.

My goal in all of this is not to tell any other person what to think but, rather, to share the truth and love of God with others for them to think, study, pray, reason, and decide for themselves—for every person to be fully persuaded in their own mind (Romans 14:5). I want to stimulate, motivate, encourage deep personal study that advances God’s kingdom of truth and love. And His kingdom advances “not by might nor by power [Newtonian physics], but by my Spirit [quantum physics],’ says the LORD Almighty” (Zechariah 4:6 NIV84).

It is as we respond to truth and choose the truth that we are changed; the truth sets us free (John 8:32). As we internalize, ingest, take in the truth as Jesus revealed it, that truth becomes embedded into the substructure of our brains and changes the resonate harmonics of our quantum signature, bringing us ever more into harmony with heaven. As we trust God, as we choose to live out His methods and principles, we are further changed, transformed, and solidified through experience into a living union, bond, friendship of faith, trust, and love with our Creator.

I encourage you to think deeply, study personally, and pray faithfully, inviting God’s Spirit to enlighten, empower, and transform you—and whenever you are fully persuaded in your own mind on some truth, choose it, say yes, and truth by truth, choice by choice, you will be transformed, daily growing in your love and trust relationship with God.

 

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Testimony 40

I was brought up in a different faith and have been petrified my whole life of God. I believed that I would burn in hell for eternity. When I was 12 I started pursuing the things of this world, but for the next 45 years the Spirit was always calling me, as I knew there was a God through nature. I could see the vast sea of stars in the universe and knew there was something bigger out there. Five years ago, through a Revelation seminar, I was blessed to learn about God’s character and government.

Then I found Come and Reason Ministries and have come under some extreme pressure when I speak about the ministry. One time a member sent me an internet article titled “Whats wrong with Tim Jennings?” I asked her what she thought of it and she said “I don’t know, I didn’t read it.”

I have always wanted to find out for myself the truth about God, so I stayed with the Design Law construct and have been liberated to understand the big picture. Once we consider Design Law, all other Bible stories and prophecies seem to fit perfectly. It is truly beautiful to see people grasping how God operates this Universe of Love and the liberation it has provided in their lives. It blows my mind to see how consistent Design law is with what our founders believed. I hear statements like “This makes so much sense.”

Tom W., Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA

 

Testimony 71

When I was 9 years old, I remember setting at our devotional table with a hunger and thirst for God that wanted more, deeper, BETTER. I can remember literally crying and pounding on the table, “I know these teachers didn’t mean to give us error. They taught what THEY had been TAUGHT, but didn’t ANYBODY READ THE BOOK?!?!?” It mattered to me then. It mattered to me as a teenager. It matters now as I teach bible classes. It didn’t have to be so hard as I watched so many give up and lay God’s great plan and gift of salvation aside as being “impossible.” Then, a friend sent me a link to Come And Reason’s website. I grew excited. YES! FINALLY! Then another friend told me to stay away, saying her son had just broken up with a girl because she was involved with Come And Reason and that “Tim Jennings preaches a false gospel.” But, AFTER many years of developing an authentic and, dare I say FUN relationship with Jesus, through the Holy Spirit I see this message has been around a LONG time, since the apostle Paul, Ellen White, Graham Maxwell, Ray Foucher, and yourself (though I admit, you’ve made me back up, rewind and replay the clips, and get out my well-worn Bible on a few things.) I’m so thankful I have found LIGHT during these DARK days. I am not alone.

Vicki DiNitto

Testimony 46

Over the past couple of years God has been expanding my view of Himself and His character. Along my approximately 40-year journey, I have often had questions, but was hesitant to voice these and step outside the traditionally accepted thinking, for fear of admitting that I may in fact be eternally lost. In the recesses of my thinking has been the thought – if one blindly accepts (which is widely regarded as “real faith”) and does not question, is this really ‘truth?’ I often find it challenging to grapple with very theological ‘speak,’ but Dr. Jennings has a real gift of explaining spiritual concepts with clear practical examples. The weekly discussions are growing my Christian experience and slowly changing my view of how to live as a child of God in today’s complex world. Finally the whole Old Testament sanctuary teaching moved in my mind from fantasy to reality!

Beverly S., South Africa

 

Testimony 38

Since November 2015, when I started studying Gods word from this God Is Love point of view, my life has been transformed. My troubled marriage of 15 years has been healed and my husband and I are truly happy for the first time in 15 years. Now When I read the word of God I understand it so much better and I can’t help but see Gods love radiating through the pages to humanity. Gods word is living and active and I am blessed beyond measure to be having this amazing experience. God has given me a beautiful understanding of Jn 3:16 that amazes me more and more each day. Thank you again for your ministry.

Helen D., London, England

 

Testimony 32

The message [of Come And Reason Ministries is] for all Christians (and those who may become Christians) and not just Adventists or any other group. It is difficult to imagine why any [anyone] with intellectual and spiritual honesty could find fault with the way you explained the healing substitution concepts and the truth about God’s character, though I know some will reject and criticize. On behalf of those in our group near Tacoma, WA, thank you and your staff for all of the hard work and for sharing the Gospel in this manner. God’s message of healing love will be carried to the whole world and then Jesus will come – He promised it.

Terry U., Tacoma, WA, USA

 

Testimony 74

Thank you so much for opening my eyes. I’ve been through a lot of ministries that just didn’t show the love of God that I felt he was. You have helped me to begin the process of true healing. I thought I was “too far gone,” now I know there’s hope in Jesus, because he loves us beyond what we can comprehend. Thank you again for all you do. I truly appreciate it and pray more people find you (physical at your studio and through this website).

Dalio M.

Testimony 70

I have been watching you for many years and have learned to love God with all my heart. I was raised by a loving Christian mother that had been lied to about who God really was, so our religious upbringing was hell fire and damnation. As soon as I was old enough and moved out, I not only left the church, I ran as fast as I could to get away from it. Sad to say, it wasn’t until the past couple of years that I learned and understand who my Father really is and how much He loves me. I understand God’s Design Laws (which make sense) and when I’m teaching my church Bible study class, I’m able to really put to use the things I’ve been learning and Holy Spirit is leading. Thank you for introducing me to my Father of true, pure love. Everyday with Him is new and exciting. One thing that breaks my heart is that I didn’t know Him sooner. God Bless you and your ministry!

Judy Phelps, Reno, NV, USA

Testimony 73

I have been truly blessed by your blogs and other resources. They have helped me to see things in a much brighter light and to reason things out better. Thank you so much for your ministry. Whenever I have the opportunity I pass along your material to my friends.

R. Noseworthy, Newfoundland, Canada

Testimony 27

Your teachings about our heavenly Father have changed my life. Thank you sooooooo very very much! I know He’s doing some serious healing in my heart and life and I look forward to each new day to learn something new about Him and to just hear you speak about Him. Thank you, forever.

Nancy S.

 

Testimony 69

After reading your book, ‘Could It Be This Simple,’ someone was explaining Christianity in a way that made sense to me for the first time in my life. One morning, I simply prayed “I’m sorry and I love you.” As soon as I silently said that, I could literally feel God’s presence and light flood down on me from above and fill me up with love and joy. I sat there crying my eyes out, because I was so overpowered with this feeling of love and joy. It was just so incredible. I hope that more people can read this book and get a blessing from it. It’s really amazing.

Rachael H.

Testimony 57

You have helped make sense of thirty two years of confusion. The material you freely provide reorganized so much of my life into such a beautiful pattern that has always been hinted at from within, but misguided with my training and what I was experiencing externally. My filipno parents, who were converted from Catholicism to SDA, were sincere and did their best to raise me the right way and I have deep respect for them. However, being immigrants and not understanding the language made for a difficult transition as I was growing up, which also applied to my spiritual growth as I learned the patterns of religion. I have been listening to as many bible study classes and reading blog posts as my time in a work truck will allow, searching for the practical applications of where spirituality and reality meet, and I thank you for helping me find that. You have helped me reach a point in which I can truly say that I love God, that I believe He loves me, and, like David, I delight in His law. God bless.

Emmanuel V., Calgary, AB Canada

Testimony 21

I am absolutly on fire with the message at Come and Reason! I can’t get enough! I’ve read your book, blog, and articles. I’ve listened to your Bible study podcasts, your radio show, and your series – all excellent! It wasn’t until the past couple of years that I have I like I’m becoming “healthy,” with more to share with others than just beasts and commandments! I used to be a Bible worker and preached when the pastors were gone until I had had enough. I didnt realize at the time what the problem was, but i know now… the message wasn’t properly focused. Now my flame is rekindled. All of your little examples are so perfect in explaining something “complicated” and making it easily understood! Now I’m trying to shape it into a life changing evangelistic series! Thank you!

M.T., USA

 

Testimony 31

It was very touching to hear the testimony of your class share how viewing God’s true character has changed their lives. My feelings are the same – there is so much freedom in knowing that God LOVES me – regardless of my… just, REGARDLESS! I’m still blown away by the true gospel, the fact that God is not ready to strike us when we fail. He is not arbitrary. He simply loves us and warns of the natural consequences because He can’t stand to see us suffer. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS GOD!!!

Ceil V.,  UT, USA

 

Testimony 58

I have been watching your videos in The Power of Love seminar and I must say these have liberated me and have improved my relationship with the Lord. I am no longer terrified of him as I was before following your teachings.

Thando N., South Africa

 

Testimony 39

[This ministry is the] biggest blessing I have ever received! Your DVDs and lessons could not have come at a better time in my life. I have experienced in the past year many difficulties that, if it wasn’t for this wonderful view of God that I have discovered through this ministry, I would not have been able to respond in love and forgiveness. My heart is being transformed everyday by the Calvary-looking God you teach. Hallelujah!! I have tears in my eyes as I write, because my life has taken a complete turn from where I was heading.

I am from Central America. Most of my family is scattered in different parts of the world and all have the same view of God that I had growing up; a distant, exacting, and ready-to-punish-us-with-tragedy type of God. So, I have been translating lessons for my family and, to my surprise, they have also been sharing them with others! I can already see the difference. My brother has often said, “Thank you for sharing, I have never heard it this way!” My other family members are taking an amazing turn from a message of “repent or burn” towards a loving God, pleading to us that we won’t reject him because he loves us eternally.

Bless you for all you do.

Sofia S., Ashfield, MA, USA