Education serves as protection against different forces. In a democratic society enlightenment is the question of life of separate people and the entire society. Understanding this issue causes the development of the movement for public learning. Essay on education may be written on the following topics: education in the USA, in Europe (Great Britain, France, Germany), in Japan, Korea or China, the system of school, college or higher education.
Essays on education may include information on school or special education, for example, scientific, music, technical, etc. Special and professional knowledge can be reviewed as education in its full sense only if it is connected with common education. Enlightenment aims, as well as the level of knowledge required, can be various depending on the culture, national peculiarities, geographical or social environment. Purposes of learning can be changed throughout history (noble, bourgeois, utilitarian, political, public education etc.).
Enlightenment is a spiritual image of a person that is created under the influence of moral and spiritual values which compose the essence of his cultural circle. It is a process of upbringing, self-education and impact; in other words, it is a process of personality formation. Moreover, the main aspect is not the knowledge gained, but its connection to personal qualities, the ability to use the knowledge for the good.
Education always has formal side, or spiritual activity or ability, as well as material one, or the essence of learning. The concept “education” that is used today gained its meaning at the end of the 18th century. It denotes general spiritual process of personality formation that is opposite to upbringing strategy of other researchers.
All essays on education should include statistics and data on the number of educational institutions, number of students who study in public or private colleges. Do not forget to compose a thesis statement that can be written in a form of a question. You should write down several important arguments connected with your thesis statement. Each essay on education should be organized according to a citation style specified by your professor. Besides, try to choose the easiest topic to write your paper so that the writing process becomes an interesting activity for you.
Our writers are experienced enough to help you with your essay. They have years of experience to polish their writing skills and compose a well-structured essays on education for you. Do not hesitate to contact us when you need help.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
BIBLE
Incredible Testimony
The Bible is True
THE BIGGEST SKEPTIC IN THE WORLD: IT COULD HAVE BEEN ME
To the best of my memory, before I came to the saving grace of Jesus Christ, I did not believe the Bible was true. I doubted whether God, Satan, heaven, or hell even existed. I believed that we were born, lived so many years, and then died. I had my own business and thought that I had succeeded by my own wits.
One evening, my wife and I heard some documentation that these were the last days before Jesus Christ would actually return. Not wanting to hear it, I almost walked out. Something kept me there, and I listened but was not convinced; however, I decided to do some research to find out if the Bible was really true. Indeed, if I could find one contradiction or anything that was not true, then I could disregard it. I believed this would not take long. This led me into much research. I learned nearly one-third of the Bible is, directly or indirectly, related to prophecy, which includes about 10,000 prophecies. One thing needed was to determine when the Bible was actually written. Thus, a study of biblical history, various translations, and archaeology was necessary. The Dead Sea Scrolls, which were found in Israel, contained parts of the Old Testament, including prophecies of the coming of Jesus. It has been proven that these were written before Christ came. Thousands of clay tablets and archaeological sites also confirm many accounts in the Bible.
I took time off and began studying the prophecies. My wife would spend much time at the library. She obtained documentation for me from reference books, which I would check against the Scriptures to see if the prophecies took place. One week went by and then a month. Every prophecy that we were able to get information on proved to be accurate. I was astonished, but still not convinced. Later, there were people who would show me what appeared to be contradictions in the Bible. These were not contradictions, but only a lack of research on the part of those that said these things. Stubborn, that's me. Even after four months of intensive study, proving prophecy after prophecy was true, I was still skeptical. Four months turned into six. I became more determined. It wasn't possible that the sixty-six books of the Bible, written by many people over hundreds of years, would not have some errors, I thought. Thousands of prophecies and every one perfect? No, impossible! If I would admit that, then I would also have to admit there was a God. I was not prepared to do that—yet, I wanted to know the truth. More months passed. Finally, I had to admit after spending almost countless hours of research—I was wrong. I may have been the biggest skeptic in the world, but now I know—the Bible is true and is the perfect Word of God. Anyone willing to do the same research could only come to the same conclusion, if they are honest. I became afraid that I would perish. I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, as a result of His love, compassion, mercy and grace.
I know that there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we MUST be saved (EXCEPT JESUS)-ref Acts 4:12. I REPENTED of my sins and received Jesus Christ as my only hope of salvation by FAITH-ref Eph 2:8-10. It is written, EXCEPT YE BE CONVERTED, AND BECOME AS LITTLE CHILDREN, YE SHALL NOT ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN-Mt 18:3. You can also call on Jesus NOW to be YOUR Lord and Savior.
One evening, my wife and I heard some documentation that these were the last days before Jesus Christ would actually return. Not wanting to hear it, I almost walked out. Something kept me there, and I listened but was not convinced; however, I decided to do some research to find out if the Bible was really true. Indeed, if I could find one contradiction or anything that was not true, then I could disregard it. I believed this would not take long. This led me into much research. I learned nearly one-third of the Bible is, directly or indirectly, related to prophecy, which includes about 10,000 prophecies. One thing needed was to determine when the Bible was actually written. Thus, a study of biblical history, various translations, and archaeology was necessary. The Dead Sea Scrolls, which were found in Israel, contained parts of the Old Testament, including prophecies of the coming of Jesus. It has been proven that these were written before Christ came. Thousands of clay tablets and archaeological sites also confirm many accounts in the Bible.
I took time off and began studying the prophecies. My wife would spend much time at the library. She obtained documentation for me from reference books, which I would check against the Scriptures to see if the prophecies took place. One week went by and then a month. Every prophecy that we were able to get information on proved to be accurate. I was astonished, but still not convinced. Later, there were people who would show me what appeared to be contradictions in the Bible. These were not contradictions, but only a lack of research on the part of those that said these things. Stubborn, that's me. Even after four months of intensive study, proving prophecy after prophecy was true, I was still skeptical. Four months turned into six. I became more determined. It wasn't possible that the sixty-six books of the Bible, written by many people over hundreds of years, would not have some errors, I thought. Thousands of prophecies and every one perfect? No, impossible! If I would admit that, then I would also have to admit there was a God. I was not prepared to do that—yet, I wanted to know the truth. More months passed. Finally, I had to admit after spending almost countless hours of research—I was wrong. I may have been the biggest skeptic in the world, but now I know—the Bible is true and is the perfect Word of God. Anyone willing to do the same research could only come to the same conclusion, if they are honest. I became afraid that I would perish. I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, as a result of His love, compassion, mercy and grace.
I know that there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we MUST be saved (EXCEPT JESUS)-ref Acts 4:12. I REPENTED of my sins and received Jesus Christ as my only hope of salvation by FAITH-ref Eph 2:8-10. It is written, EXCEPT YE BE CONVERTED, AND BECOME AS LITTLE CHILDREN, YE SHALL NOT ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN-Mt 18:3. You can also call on Jesus NOW to be YOUR Lord and Savior.
WHAT IS GOING ON?
People have said the end was near many times in the past—true. But did you know the Bible shows us no prophecy of the latter days meant anything until Israel was reborn into a nation? Did you know God’s Word indicates to us a generation would not pass from Israel’s rebirth (May 14, 1948), till all be fulfilled (which includes the Rapture, the Tribulation, Armageddon and Jesus Christ’s return)? A generation can be as much as 70+ years (Note, Parable of the Fig Tree in site menu).
Many people have been preaching about the latter days of the end times in churches, on radio, TV, the Internet and through books and magazines. Some include Billy Graham, Hal Lindsey, Ed Hindson, John Hagee, Jack Van Impe, Peter Lalonde, and Tim LaHaye. To those that understand the Bible, no explanation is needed. To those that are prideful, self-centered, that love this world, that despise God’s correction, and seek the praise of men rather than of God, no explanation is possible-ref Dan 12:4, 10; Mt 24:37, 39.
It has been said that it is virtually impossible for anyone to make 11 straight predictions, 2000 years into the future. There is only one chance in 8 x 10 to the 63rd power, or 80 with 63 zeros after it that such a thing could be done. If such a set of predictions existed, it would have to be the Word of God.
Consider, could you write eleven straight predictions that would take place in the year 4000 A.D.? Include the rebirth of a specific nation and how it would be reborn. Include specific nations that would exist, certain nations that would be allied together, and the exact size of a nation’s army. Include what the people and church would be like. Also include the names of actual cities and fruit trees that would exist. Do eleven straight prophecies and be exactly correct on every single one. The Bible not only does this eleven times, but hundreds of times with absolute, perfect accuracy. If this is so, even the most skeptical person (that is truthful) would have to agree that there is indeed a God and the Bible has to be His Word. 2 Pet 1:20,21-KNOWING THIS FIRST, THAT NO PROPHECY OF THE SCRIPTURE IS OF ANY PRIVATE INTERPRETATION. FOR THE PROPHECY CAME NOT IN OLD TIME BY THE WILL OF MAN: BUT HOLY MEN OF GOD SPAKE AS THEY WERE MOVED BY THE HOLY GHOST. O FOOLS, AND SLOW OF HEART TO BELIEVE ALL THAT THE PROPHETS HAVE SPOKEN-Lk 24:25. However, believing there is a God and acknowledging the Bible is the Word of God does not save a person. A person needs to admit they are a sinner, repent, and receive Jesus Christ as their only hope of being saved.
Let's prove the Bible is true and we are nearing the end of the last generation before Christ returns.
Many people have been preaching about the latter days of the end times in churches, on radio, TV, the Internet and through books and magazines. Some include Billy Graham, Hal Lindsey, Ed Hindson, John Hagee, Jack Van Impe, Peter Lalonde, and Tim LaHaye. To those that understand the Bible, no explanation is needed. To those that are prideful, self-centered, that love this world, that despise God’s correction, and seek the praise of men rather than of God, no explanation is possible-ref Dan 12:4, 10; Mt 24:37, 39.
It has been said that it is virtually impossible for anyone to make 11 straight predictions, 2000 years into the future. There is only one chance in 8 x 10 to the 63rd power, or 80 with 63 zeros after it that such a thing could be done. If such a set of predictions existed, it would have to be the Word of God.
Consider, could you write eleven straight predictions that would take place in the year 4000 A.D.? Include the rebirth of a specific nation and how it would be reborn. Include specific nations that would exist, certain nations that would be allied together, and the exact size of a nation’s army. Include what the people and church would be like. Also include the names of actual cities and fruit trees that would exist. Do eleven straight prophecies and be exactly correct on every single one. The Bible not only does this eleven times, but hundreds of times with absolute, perfect accuracy. If this is so, even the most skeptical person (that is truthful) would have to agree that there is indeed a God and the Bible has to be His Word. 2 Pet 1:20,21-KNOWING THIS FIRST, THAT NO PROPHECY OF THE SCRIPTURE IS OF ANY PRIVATE INTERPRETATION. FOR THE PROPHECY CAME NOT IN OLD TIME BY THE WILL OF MAN: BUT HOLY MEN OF GOD SPAKE AS THEY WERE MOVED BY THE HOLY GHOST. O FOOLS, AND SLOW OF HEART TO BELIEVE ALL THAT THE PROPHETS HAVE SPOKEN-Lk 24:25. However, believing there is a God and acknowledging the Bible is the Word of God does not save a person. A person needs to admit they are a sinner, repent, and receive Jesus Christ as their only hope of being saved.
Let's prove the Bible is true and we are nearing the end of the last generation before Christ returns.
1. The Jewish people would be scattered worldwide; yet Israel would become a nation again after a long time and at a time the Bible calls the "latter days"-ref Isa 66:8; Mic 5:3; Ezek 38:8. Against what appeared to be impossible odds, this prophecy has been fulfilled. It happened as predicted on May 14, 1948 after about 2500 years. That’s 1 out of 1.
Note: Israel was destroyed in approximately 721 B.C. and Judah about 135 years later. Since that time, approximately fourteen different peoples have possessed the land of Israel. Yet as the Bible said, the nation of Israel would be reborn.
The rebirth of Israel was a key sign, indicating we had entered a time period called the "latter days." It was the beginning of a countdown leading to the Tribulation and culminating with the Battle of Armageddon and the return of Jesus. Along with the fulfillment of this crucial event are over 360 prophecies that would all come together, so we might recognize that the Tribulation is very close. Some are listed here.
Yet the Bible foretells that most people would not believe these things, despite the overwhelming evidence of the signs from God’s Word being fulfilled exactly as predicted. As people refused to believe the flood was coming in Noah’s time, so people today willingly choose to disregard the signs of the times.
2. Israel shall be brought forth in one day, at once-ref Isa 66:8. Prophecy fulfilled-May 14, 1948. That’s 2 out of 2.
Note: On Nov. 29, 1947, the General Assembly of the U.N. approved a resolution calling for the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine. On the morning of May 14, 1948 (the last day of the British mandate), a meeting of the People’s Council took place in Israel to decide on the name of the state and to finalize the declaration. At precisely 4 pm, the proclamation ceremony began at the Tel Aviv museum. The 979 Hebrew words of the Scroll of Independence were read. All stood, and the scroll was adopted. The notorious White Paper, issued by the British in 1930 restricting Jewish immigration, was declared null and void. Members of the People’s Council signed the proclamation. David Ben-Gurion rapped his gavel, declaring, "The State of Israel is established. This meeting is ended." Israel was brought forth as a nation in one day, at once, exactly as predicted. At midnight, the British soldiers and high commissioner would leave. President Truman was swift in announcing U.S. recognition of Israel. The following morning, on May 15, Israel was under attack by the Egyptian, Syrian, Lebanese, Jordanian, and Iraqi forces.
3. Israel would be brought forth (or reborn) "out of the nations"-Ezek 38:8. Prophecy fulfilled-May 14, 1948. That’s 3 out of 3.
Note: As previously stated, on Nov. 29, 1947, the General Assembly of the "United Nations" approved a resolution calling for the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine. This prophecy was perfectly fulfilled. Consider, for centuries the land of Israel had been occupied by many nations. Israel was "brought forth out of the nations"—the children of Israel from many nations have been returning to their ancient homeland.
4. Israel must regain the city of Jerusalem-Joel 2:32; Isa 28:14; Ezek 22:19. This happened just as predicted in 1967. That’s 4 out of 4.
Note: The Bible gives us two methods so we would know the time we are in. One is by Israel’s rebirth. The other, by a precise line of events that would all come together at one time. Israel was reborn on May 14th, 1948. The Bible indicates that from Israel’s rebirth a generation would not pass till all be fulfilled. We are not setting any date; however, it seems clear from Israel’s rebirth and the signs of the times— that we are living in the generation in which the Rapture and Tribulation will come and catch most people by surprise. Are you ready?
5. The Christian church at the time of the end would be lukewarm, neither cold nor hot for Jesus. It would be asleep. Prophecy fulfilled. That’s 5 out of 5.
Note: God will spew them out. Many ministers and people that call themselves a Christian will not be going to heaven. The Bible tells us—you have acquired wealth, but your true condition is wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked, and you don’t know it-Rev 3:14-22. This is today’s church. Most preachers use little Scripture, but lots of worldly stories. Many sing a great deal, but put little emphasis on repentance, obeying, serving, and fearing God, on the fruits of the Spirit, Bible prophecy, water baptism by immersion, and studying your Bible faithfully every day. Many are entertainment or feel good centers that teach what their members want to hear. Many (so-called Christians) are so lukewarm or dead, they don’t even bring their Bibles with them to the house of God. Some famous ministers and Bible schools think this is the best church age ever, yet the Bible shows it is the most deceived.
6. The Bible gives us app. 119 descriptions about the people at the time of the end. These fit the people of today perfectly, but did not fit the people of fifty years ago. Here are some:
Note: Israel was destroyed in approximately 721 B.C. and Judah about 135 years later. Since that time, approximately fourteen different peoples have possessed the land of Israel. Yet as the Bible said, the nation of Israel would be reborn.
The rebirth of Israel was a key sign, indicating we had entered a time period called the "latter days." It was the beginning of a countdown leading to the Tribulation and culminating with the Battle of Armageddon and the return of Jesus. Along with the fulfillment of this crucial event are over 360 prophecies that would all come together, so we might recognize that the Tribulation is very close. Some are listed here.
Yet the Bible foretells that most people would not believe these things, despite the overwhelming evidence of the signs from God’s Word being fulfilled exactly as predicted. As people refused to believe the flood was coming in Noah’s time, so people today willingly choose to disregard the signs of the times.
2. Israel shall be brought forth in one day, at once-ref Isa 66:8. Prophecy fulfilled-May 14, 1948. That’s 2 out of 2.
Note: On Nov. 29, 1947, the General Assembly of the U.N. approved a resolution calling for the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine. On the morning of May 14, 1948 (the last day of the British mandate), a meeting of the People’s Council took place in Israel to decide on the name of the state and to finalize the declaration. At precisely 4 pm, the proclamation ceremony began at the Tel Aviv museum. The 979 Hebrew words of the Scroll of Independence were read. All stood, and the scroll was adopted. The notorious White Paper, issued by the British in 1930 restricting Jewish immigration, was declared null and void. Members of the People’s Council signed the proclamation. David Ben-Gurion rapped his gavel, declaring, "The State of Israel is established. This meeting is ended." Israel was brought forth as a nation in one day, at once, exactly as predicted. At midnight, the British soldiers and high commissioner would leave. President Truman was swift in announcing U.S. recognition of Israel. The following morning, on May 15, Israel was under attack by the Egyptian, Syrian, Lebanese, Jordanian, and Iraqi forces.
3. Israel would be brought forth (or reborn) "out of the nations"-Ezek 38:8. Prophecy fulfilled-May 14, 1948. That’s 3 out of 3.
Note: As previously stated, on Nov. 29, 1947, the General Assembly of the "United Nations" approved a resolution calling for the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine. This prophecy was perfectly fulfilled. Consider, for centuries the land of Israel had been occupied by many nations. Israel was "brought forth out of the nations"—the children of Israel from many nations have been returning to their ancient homeland.
4. Israel must regain the city of Jerusalem-Joel 2:32; Isa 28:14; Ezek 22:19. This happened just as predicted in 1967. That’s 4 out of 4.
Note: The Bible gives us two methods so we would know the time we are in. One is by Israel’s rebirth. The other, by a precise line of events that would all come together at one time. Israel was reborn on May 14th, 1948. The Bible indicates that from Israel’s rebirth a generation would not pass till all be fulfilled. We are not setting any date; however, it seems clear from Israel’s rebirth and the signs of the times— that we are living in the generation in which the Rapture and Tribulation will come and catch most people by surprise. Are you ready?
5. The Christian church at the time of the end would be lukewarm, neither cold nor hot for Jesus. It would be asleep. Prophecy fulfilled. That’s 5 out of 5.
Note: God will spew them out. Many ministers and people that call themselves a Christian will not be going to heaven. The Bible tells us—you have acquired wealth, but your true condition is wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked, and you don’t know it-Rev 3:14-22. This is today’s church. Most preachers use little Scripture, but lots of worldly stories. Many sing a great deal, but put little emphasis on repentance, obeying, serving, and fearing God, on the fruits of the Spirit, Bible prophecy, water baptism by immersion, and studying your Bible faithfully every day. Many are entertainment or feel good centers that teach what their members want to hear. Many (so-called Christians) are so lukewarm or dead, they don’t even bring their Bibles with them to the house of God. Some famous ministers and Bible schools think this is the best church age ever, yet the Bible shows it is the most deceived.
6. The Bible gives us app. 119 descriptions about the people at the time of the end. These fit the people of today perfectly, but did not fit the people of fifty years ago. Here are some:
A. Some would depart from the faith and go into devil worship.-1 Tim 4:1. This is perfect.
B. People would mock about the last days and not believe-2 Pe 3:3; Jude 18.
C. People would become lovers of themselves-2 Tim 3:1,2. Remember the TV commercials—"I do it for me"?
D. People would be disobeying their parents-2 Tim 3:1,2.
E. People would be grateful for nothing-2 Tim 3:1,2.
F. Alternate lifestyles would increase, prosper & become accepted.-Lk 17:28,30; ref Gen 19:5; Ro 1:24,26,27.
G. People would be without self-control in sex-2 Tim 3:1,2,6; Rev 9:21, Lk 17:28,30; Jude 7. Is this not the sex generation?
H. People would love pleasures more than God-2 Tim 3:1,2,4. This is true. Shall we go on a picnic, watch football, or sleep. Church?—we can go another time. Our American motto "In God we trust" has become a joke. Remember, these were all predicted centuries ago as part of the signs that we are at the time of the end.
I. People would be taking drugs-Rev 9:21. The Greek word for sorceries, in Rev 9:21, means pharmaceuticals or drugs. God’s Word is 100% right on every one. That’s 6 out of 6. How could you have any doubts at this point?
Note: Fifty years ago, many people seldom locked their doors at night. There was little or no profanity on television, radio, or in the movies. One of the biggest problems in public school was gum chewing. Those days are long gone. Can you find a new movie that doesn’t curse God’s name?
B. People would mock about the last days and not believe-2 Pe 3:3; Jude 18.
C. People would become lovers of themselves-2 Tim 3:1,2. Remember the TV commercials—"I do it for me"?
D. People would be disobeying their parents-2 Tim 3:1,2.
E. People would be grateful for nothing-2 Tim 3:1,2.
F. Alternate lifestyles would increase, prosper & become accepted.-Lk 17:28,30; ref Gen 19:5; Ro 1:24,26,27.
G. People would be without self-control in sex-2 Tim 3:1,2,6; Rev 9:21, Lk 17:28,30; Jude 7. Is this not the sex generation?
H. People would love pleasures more than God-2 Tim 3:1,2,4. This is true. Shall we go on a picnic, watch football, or sleep. Church?—we can go another time. Our American motto "In God we trust" has become a joke. Remember, these were all predicted centuries ago as part of the signs that we are at the time of the end.
I. People would be taking drugs-Rev 9:21. The Greek word for sorceries, in Rev 9:21, means pharmaceuticals or drugs. God’s Word is 100% right on every one. That’s 6 out of 6. How could you have any doubts at this point?
Note: Fifty years ago, many people seldom locked their doors at night. There was little or no profanity on television, radio, or in the movies. One of the biggest problems in public school was gum chewing. Those days are long gone. Can you find a new movie that doesn’t curse God’s name?
7. There would be weapons that could destroy the world-Mk 13:20; Rev 6:8; Rev 9:18; Zech 14:8,12. Incredibly, this prophecy was written in the days of spears and arrows, yet today it is true. That’s 7 out of 7.
Note: It is estimated that the combined nuclear arsenals of the USA and Russia could kill every living thing on earth 6 times over.
8. The Gospel must be published in all the world-Mk 13:10. This seemingly impossible prophecy was written when there was no printing press, but today it is true. That's 8 out of 8.
9. In the "latter days," when Israel was once again a nation, there would be a great military power to the extreme north of Israel in the land of Magog (which is modern-day Russia)-Ezek 38:2-4,8,15,16. Incredible. That’s 9 out of 9.
Note: How could the Bible have foretold the location of this nation, facts about its military, and even the time period it would come to pass? As was already said, in Lk 24:25-O FOOLS, AND SLOW OF HEART TO BELIEVE ALL THAT THE PROPHETS HAVE SPOKEN.
10. There would be a nation to the far east of Israel, to the end of the earth. This nation would have an army of 200 million. This is astounding. How could the Bible have told the location of a nation and given such a huge figure regarding the size of its army nearly 2000 years ago? China has boasted that they could field an army of this exact figure. That’s 10 out of 10.
11. There would be an economic alliance of the nations of the Old Roman Empire. It would have a military capability. This is an exact description of the European Union today (the EU), which has already adopted the one-currency system for many of their member nations. It is written, IN THE DAYS OF THESE KINGS (these nations, which is now) SHALL THE GOD OF HEAVEN SET UP A KINGDOM-Dan 2:44. That’s 11 out of 11. We have just reached the point that seemed impossible—11 perfect predictions made thousands of years ago—with God nothing is impossible. Certainly, at this point, even the biggest skeptic should see the Bible is true, there is a God, and we are nearing the time of the end.
That’s 22 prophecies in 11 sets, all made centuries ago. With God nothing is impossible. Even the biggest skeptic should see the Bible is true and we are nearing the time of the end. Don’t let your desires and agenda blind you to the truth. The Bible is the Word of God and we have proved it. From the rebirth of Israel to the soon coming tribulaiton, 365 prophecies needed to be fulfilled. Incredible, 363 are done and the last two are happening now. These prophecies include 101 regarding Israel; 73 about today’s church, false prophets and christs; 119 concerning what the people would be like; 20 regarding the days we are in, evil and persecutions; 43 give information about countries and cities that would exist, and alliences; 5 regarding inventions; 2 miscellaneous, and the final 2. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Repent and get baptized by full immersion. Read and obey the Gospel. God is not willing that any should perish, yet most do. The Rapture is close, but most are not ready and will be left behind. Mt 16:26-WHAT IS A MAN PROFITED, IF HE SHALL GAIN THE WHOLE WORLD, AND LOSE HIS OWN SOUL? OR WHAT SHALL A MAN GIVE IN EXCHANGE FOR HIS SOUL?
Note: It is estimated that the combined nuclear arsenals of the USA and Russia could kill every living thing on earth 6 times over.
8. The Gospel must be published in all the world-Mk 13:10. This seemingly impossible prophecy was written when there was no printing press, but today it is true. That's 8 out of 8.
9. In the "latter days," when Israel was once again a nation, there would be a great military power to the extreme north of Israel in the land of Magog (which is modern-day Russia)-Ezek 38:2-4,8,15,16. Incredible. That’s 9 out of 9.
Note: How could the Bible have foretold the location of this nation, facts about its military, and even the time period it would come to pass? As was already said, in Lk 24:25-O FOOLS, AND SLOW OF HEART TO BELIEVE ALL THAT THE PROPHETS HAVE SPOKEN.
10. There would be a nation to the far east of Israel, to the end of the earth. This nation would have an army of 200 million. This is astounding. How could the Bible have told the location of a nation and given such a huge figure regarding the size of its army nearly 2000 years ago? China has boasted that they could field an army of this exact figure. That’s 10 out of 10.
11. There would be an economic alliance of the nations of the Old Roman Empire. It would have a military capability. This is an exact description of the European Union today (the EU), which has already adopted the one-currency system for many of their member nations. It is written, IN THE DAYS OF THESE KINGS (these nations, which is now) SHALL THE GOD OF HEAVEN SET UP A KINGDOM-Dan 2:44. That’s 11 out of 11. We have just reached the point that seemed impossible—11 perfect predictions made thousands of years ago—with God nothing is impossible. Certainly, at this point, even the biggest skeptic should see the Bible is true, there is a God, and we are nearing the time of the end.
That’s 22 prophecies in 11 sets, all made centuries ago. With God nothing is impossible. Even the biggest skeptic should see the Bible is true and we are nearing the time of the end. Don’t let your desires and agenda blind you to the truth. The Bible is the Word of God and we have proved it. From the rebirth of Israel to the soon coming tribulaiton, 365 prophecies needed to be fulfilled. Incredible, 363 are done and the last two are happening now. These prophecies include 101 regarding Israel; 73 about today’s church, false prophets and christs; 119 concerning what the people would be like; 20 regarding the days we are in, evil and persecutions; 43 give information about countries and cities that would exist, and alliences; 5 regarding inventions; 2 miscellaneous, and the final 2. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Repent and get baptized by full immersion. Read and obey the Gospel. God is not willing that any should perish, yet most do. The Rapture is close, but most are not ready and will be left behind. Mt 16:26-WHAT IS A MAN PROFITED, IF HE SHALL GAIN THE WHOLE WORLD, AND LOSE HIS OWN SOUL? OR WHAT SHALL A MAN GIVE IN EXCHANGE FOR HIS SOUL?
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? THE RAPTURE AND TRIBULATION
RAPTURE (the Biblical term is "caught up" or "translation") is a term used to describe the removal from the earth of all living people that have been born-again, as evidenced by their fruits. Just prior to the Tribulation coming about, the Rapture will take place. The number that will be raptured will be far fewer than most people might think. The Bible unmistakably portrays the raptured saints in heaven before the throne of God, prior to the Antichrist coming forth and the Tribulation beginning. The Scripture tells us, in the twinkling of an eye, we shall be changed and be with Jesus in the air. 1 Cor 15:51,52-WE SHALL NOT ALL SLEEP, BUT WE SHALL ALL BE CHANGED, IN A MOMENT IN THE TWINKLING OF AN EYE, AT THE LAST TRUMP: FOR THE TRUMPET SHALL SOUND; 1 Thes 4:16,17-AND THE DEAD IN CHRIST SHALL RISE FIRST, THEN WE WHICH ARE ALIVE AND REMAIN SHALL BE CAUGHT UP TOGETHER WITH THEM IN THE CLOUDS. We may be asleep, immediately, we will be with Jesus. All the unbelievers, the lukewarm Christians, and those that did not obey the Gospel will be left to face the dreadful Tribulation. (For an in-depth study of the Rapture, click here.)
THE TRIBULATION is the worst time in history since man has been on the earth. Immediately following the Rapture, the man of sin (called the Antichrist) comes forth. It appears he assumes control of the EU. He can be expected to be very charismatic and brilliant. He confirms a treaty with Israel and others, which begins the Tribulation-ref. Dan 9:27.
The Tribulation is a 7 year period, but the Lord may have shortened the first 3 1/2 years in some way-ref Mk 13:20; Ro 9:28. We are not setting a date; however, we are now living in that generation in which this will happen. Hate, murder, thefts, rape, and every imaginable form of evil will abound. During this horrible period of God’s wrath, Russia, Iran, and other nations will come against Israel. The USA becomes involved. One-fourth of the world’s population will die. Many of the dead will be from the USA, as well as Russia. One-third of trees are burned up. All green grass is burned up. One-third of the sea will become blood. One-third of the creatures in the sea will die. One-third of the ships are destroyed. One-third of the waters become wormwood (or poisoned, or radioactive). Massive famines, increased earthquakes, and more diseases will happen as birth pangs of a woman. Those left alive will have opportunities to receive Jesus through the preaching of 144,000 male, virgin Jews; however, death by decapitation lies ahead for most that put their trust in Jesus, unless they renounce their faith. There will also be many false Christs and false prophets. A one-world, false religion that God calls MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH will increase. This religion has existed for hundreds of years and exists today. The nations of the world have become intoxicated with her false teachings. The temple in Jerusalem will be rebuilt.
About 3½ years from the end of the Tribulation, the Antichrist (also called the beast) is killed with a wound in the head by a weapon, but his deadly wound will be healed. He will come back to life. He then declares himself to be God and moves into the temple in Jerusalem. A false prophet appears that will do great wonders. The sacrifices at the temple will be stopped. The abomination of desolation occurs. An image of the Antichrist will be set on a wing of the temple. Those that refuse to worship it will be beheaded. The elect born-again Jews now flee for their lives to a place where God will hide them and take care of them during the last three and a half years. Power is given to the Antichrist over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. All that dwell on the earth shall worship the Antichrist, whose names are not written in the Lamb's book of life. During these last three and a half years (called the Great Tribulation), world conditions will continue to worsen. A one-world system will exist. The Antichrist shall make war against the saints and will overcome them. People will be required to take the mark of the Antichrist or the number of his name (666) in or on their forehead or right hand. If they, refuse they cannot buy or sell.
Two prophets of God will appear. One of them is Elijah. Their ministry lasts 1260 days. They warn people not to take the mark or worship the image. There is no forgiveness from God afterward for those that do. They will go to the eternal lake of fire. These two witnesses have the power to shut up heaven so that it does not rain. They have the power to bring all kinds of plagues on the earth. Multitudes will be slain for the Word of God. Some type of locusts will sting men with a sting like a scorpion. It will be so bad that men will seek death and shall not find it. There will be terrible sores upon men. The rivers and fountains will become blood. Men will be scorched with great heat. Earthquakes and diseases continue to get worse and worse. Two hundred million troops will march to Israel from the east and cross the dried up Euphrates River. One-third more of the earth’s population will be killed. After the 1260 days, the two prophets of God will be killed. People will rejoice, but then after three and a half days, they will arise and ascend up to heaven as others watch. Great fear falls on those that see this. Men will be so terrified that their hearts will fail, as they consider what is about to happen. Multitudes will hide in the rocks and say, "FALL ON US AND HIDE US FROM...HIM (Jesus)…FOR THE GREAT DAY OF HIS WRATH IS COME; AND WHO SHALL BE ABLE TO STAND?"-Rev 6:16,17.
IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE TRIBULATION of those days, the Battle of Armageddon explodes. It lasts one day. The kings and armies of the earth are gathered to make war against Jesus. Jesus Christ returns as the King of kings and Lord of lords with all His saints. If He had not returned exactly when He did, there should be no life left on earth. The Antichrist and false prophet are cast alive into the lake of fire. Satan is chained for one thousand years, so he can deceive the nations no longer till the thousand years be fulfilled. Every force of nature is likely to be unleashed at once, including killer tornadoes, hurricanes, tidal waves, lightning encircling the earth, and the biggest earthquake in mankind’s history. The cities and the mountains of the world will crumble. The Bible tells that every island fled away. The mountains were not found. There is great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of 70 to l00 pounds. The earth will move out of its place. At the end of that one day, there are so few people left alive that a child could list them.
This may all sound like a fairy tale, but remember—from Israel’s rebirth to the Tribulation, there are about 365 prophecies. Incredibly, nearly all have now been fulfilled. In addition, there are over 10,000 prophecies in the Bible and every one up to this time has come true without a single exception. THE FOOL HAS SAID IN HIS HEART THERE IS NO GOD-Ps 14:1.
THE TRIBULATION is the worst time in history since man has been on the earth. Immediately following the Rapture, the man of sin (called the Antichrist) comes forth. It appears he assumes control of the EU. He can be expected to be very charismatic and brilliant. He confirms a treaty with Israel and others, which begins the Tribulation-ref. Dan 9:27.
The Tribulation is a 7 year period, but the Lord may have shortened the first 3 1/2 years in some way-ref Mk 13:20; Ro 9:28. We are not setting a date; however, we are now living in that generation in which this will happen. Hate, murder, thefts, rape, and every imaginable form of evil will abound. During this horrible period of God’s wrath, Russia, Iran, and other nations will come against Israel. The USA becomes involved. One-fourth of the world’s population will die. Many of the dead will be from the USA, as well as Russia. One-third of trees are burned up. All green grass is burned up. One-third of the sea will become blood. One-third of the creatures in the sea will die. One-third of the ships are destroyed. One-third of the waters become wormwood (or poisoned, or radioactive). Massive famines, increased earthquakes, and more diseases will happen as birth pangs of a woman. Those left alive will have opportunities to receive Jesus through the preaching of 144,000 male, virgin Jews; however, death by decapitation lies ahead for most that put their trust in Jesus, unless they renounce their faith. There will also be many false Christs and false prophets. A one-world, false religion that God calls MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH will increase. This religion has existed for hundreds of years and exists today. The nations of the world have become intoxicated with her false teachings. The temple in Jerusalem will be rebuilt.
About 3½ years from the end of the Tribulation, the Antichrist (also called the beast) is killed with a wound in the head by a weapon, but his deadly wound will be healed. He will come back to life. He then declares himself to be God and moves into the temple in Jerusalem. A false prophet appears that will do great wonders. The sacrifices at the temple will be stopped. The abomination of desolation occurs. An image of the Antichrist will be set on a wing of the temple. Those that refuse to worship it will be beheaded. The elect born-again Jews now flee for their lives to a place where God will hide them and take care of them during the last three and a half years. Power is given to the Antichrist over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. All that dwell on the earth shall worship the Antichrist, whose names are not written in the Lamb's book of life. During these last three and a half years (called the Great Tribulation), world conditions will continue to worsen. A one-world system will exist. The Antichrist shall make war against the saints and will overcome them. People will be required to take the mark of the Antichrist or the number of his name (666) in or on their forehead or right hand. If they, refuse they cannot buy or sell.
Two prophets of God will appear. One of them is Elijah. Their ministry lasts 1260 days. They warn people not to take the mark or worship the image. There is no forgiveness from God afterward for those that do. They will go to the eternal lake of fire. These two witnesses have the power to shut up heaven so that it does not rain. They have the power to bring all kinds of plagues on the earth. Multitudes will be slain for the Word of God. Some type of locusts will sting men with a sting like a scorpion. It will be so bad that men will seek death and shall not find it. There will be terrible sores upon men. The rivers and fountains will become blood. Men will be scorched with great heat. Earthquakes and diseases continue to get worse and worse. Two hundred million troops will march to Israel from the east and cross the dried up Euphrates River. One-third more of the earth’s population will be killed. After the 1260 days, the two prophets of God will be killed. People will rejoice, but then after three and a half days, they will arise and ascend up to heaven as others watch. Great fear falls on those that see this. Men will be so terrified that their hearts will fail, as they consider what is about to happen. Multitudes will hide in the rocks and say, "FALL ON US AND HIDE US FROM...HIM (Jesus)…FOR THE GREAT DAY OF HIS WRATH IS COME; AND WHO SHALL BE ABLE TO STAND?"-Rev 6:16,17.
IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE TRIBULATION of those days, the Battle of Armageddon explodes. It lasts one day. The kings and armies of the earth are gathered to make war against Jesus. Jesus Christ returns as the King of kings and Lord of lords with all His saints. If He had not returned exactly when He did, there should be no life left on earth. The Antichrist and false prophet are cast alive into the lake of fire. Satan is chained for one thousand years, so he can deceive the nations no longer till the thousand years be fulfilled. Every force of nature is likely to be unleashed at once, including killer tornadoes, hurricanes, tidal waves, lightning encircling the earth, and the biggest earthquake in mankind’s history. The cities and the mountains of the world will crumble. The Bible tells that every island fled away. The mountains were not found. There is great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of 70 to l00 pounds. The earth will move out of its place. At the end of that one day, there are so few people left alive that a child could list them.
This may all sound like a fairy tale, but remember—from Israel’s rebirth to the Tribulation, there are about 365 prophecies. Incredibly, nearly all have now been fulfilled. In addition, there are over 10,000 prophecies in the Bible and every one up to this time has come true without a single exception. THE FOOL HAS SAID IN HIS HEART THERE IS NO GOD-Ps 14:1.
ARE YOU READY TO MEET JESUS?
We have proven that the Bible is God's Word. Now you are faced with a decision. Will you ignore what you have learned, or will you surrender your life to Jesus? If you had a sudden heart attack or the Rapture came in the next five minutes, are you sure you are ready to meet God? You may say, "I believe I’m a good person. I sing in the choir. I attend church and give offerings." The Bible says all of your righteous deeds ARE AS FILTHY RAGS. You may be religious and go to church, but if you died right now—you would perish to hell. Why? Because you have not been born-again. You may say, "Well my church never preaches like this." Will you trust your religion or what the Bible says? If you choose not to accept God’s way to enter heaven, then you are choosing eternal separation from God.
YOU MAY ASK, WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO? FOUR THINGS
1. You must admit that you are a sinner. The Bible tells us, ALL HAVE SINNED AND COME SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD. THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH.
2. Be willing to change, to forsake all sin, to humble yourself and live for Jesus. Repent. Be willing to ask God for His help to make that change. The Bible tells us, EXCEPT YE REPENT, YE SHALL ALL LIKEWISE PERISH. WHOSOEVER THEREFORE WILL BE A FRIEND OF THE WORLD IS THE ENEMY OF GOD. Jesus tells us, HE THAT IS NOT WITH ME IS AGAINST ME.
3. Believe in your heart Jesus Christ is God’s only begotten Son, God Who came to this earth in human form. Believe He died for your sins. It is written, THERE IS NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN GIVEN AMONG MEN, WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED. If you are caught robbing a bank, you have to go to jail. Jesus never sinned. When He died on the cross, He did not die for the things He did. He died to pay your jail sentence.
4. Ask for forgiveness. Ask for God’s mercy. By faith receive Jesus Christ as your only hope of salvation. Afterwards, be willing to get baptized by full immersion in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
Nicodemus was considered a very religious man in the Bible; however, in Jn 3:3, Jesus shows him it is not enough. You MUST BE BORN AGAIN. I am going to ask you to make that decision for Jesus right now. You need to humble yourself, repent and ask Jesus to be your Lord and Savior. Please kneel right where you are. Can you sense God calling you right now? Is your heart pounding? You may have been baptized or confirmed, but something inside you is saying, "Be sure." Perhaps you have strayed from God and need to rededicate your life to Jesus now. Would you rather go to be with God or the lake of fire? You have that choice right now. God wants you to receive the gift of eternal life. Are you sure there is not a sin, there is nothing that stands between you and God? But you may know there is. The Bible tells us THERE IS A WAY WHICH SEEMETH RIGHT UNTO A MAN, BUT THE END THEREOF ARE THE WAYS OF DEATH. It’s not a matter of whether you think you know Jesus, but does Jesus know you? Right now, kneel and pray this prayer out loud, and mean it with all your heart.
2. Be willing to change, to forsake all sin, to humble yourself and live for Jesus. Repent. Be willing to ask God for His help to make that change. The Bible tells us, EXCEPT YE REPENT, YE SHALL ALL LIKEWISE PERISH. WHOSOEVER THEREFORE WILL BE A FRIEND OF THE WORLD IS THE ENEMY OF GOD. Jesus tells us, HE THAT IS NOT WITH ME IS AGAINST ME.
3. Believe in your heart Jesus Christ is God’s only begotten Son, God Who came to this earth in human form. Believe He died for your sins. It is written, THERE IS NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN GIVEN AMONG MEN, WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED. If you are caught robbing a bank, you have to go to jail. Jesus never sinned. When He died on the cross, He did not die for the things He did. He died to pay your jail sentence.
4. Ask for forgiveness. Ask for God’s mercy. By faith receive Jesus Christ as your only hope of salvation. Afterwards, be willing to get baptized by full immersion in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
Nicodemus was considered a very religious man in the Bible; however, in Jn 3:3, Jesus shows him it is not enough. You MUST BE BORN AGAIN. I am going to ask you to make that decision for Jesus right now. You need to humble yourself, repent and ask Jesus to be your Lord and Savior. Please kneel right where you are. Can you sense God calling you right now? Is your heart pounding? You may have been baptized or confirmed, but something inside you is saying, "Be sure." Perhaps you have strayed from God and need to rededicate your life to Jesus now. Would you rather go to be with God or the lake of fire? You have that choice right now. God wants you to receive the gift of eternal life. Are you sure there is not a sin, there is nothing that stands between you and God? But you may know there is. The Bible tells us THERE IS A WAY WHICH SEEMETH RIGHT UNTO A MAN, BUT THE END THEREOF ARE THE WAYS OF DEATH. It’s not a matter of whether you think you know Jesus, but does Jesus know you? Right now, kneel and pray this prayer out loud, and mean it with all your heart.
DEAR JESUS, I AM A SINNER. I BELIEVE YOU ARE THE SON OF GOD AND DIED FOR MY SINS ON THE CROSS. FORGIVE ALL OF MY SINS. JESUS, I REPENT. I ASK YOU TO HAVE MERCY ON ME, A SINNER, AND COME INTO MY LIFE. GIVE ME YOUR SPIRIT AND YOUR POWER. HELP ME TO FOLLOW AND OBEY YOUR COMMANDMENTS, AND TO LIVE FOR YOU. JESUS, I GIVE YOU MY LIFE. THANK YOU FOR HEARING MY PRAYER. THANK YOU FOR COMING INTO MY LIFE. I ASK IT IN THE NAME OF MY LORD AND SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST. AMEN.
IF YOU JUST SAID THAT PRAYER AND MEANT IT
We recommend you now read your Bible every day faithfully—5 or more chapters a day. Begin with the Gospel of John, and read it through three times. Next go to Matthew, and read the New Testament through three times. Then begin reading the entire Bible in order, beginning with Genesis. As God opens up His Word to you, obey it. Be a doer of the Word and not a hearer only, deceiving yourself-ref Ja 1:22. As you are faithful, God will open your understanding of His Word more and more.
Find a good Bible-teaching church that teaches God’s Word, sound doctrine, Bible prophecy, the Revelation, not just stories about worldly things. They should also love and support Israel and the Jewish people. Attend often and get baptized. Tell others that Jesus is your only hope of salvation. If you’ve just said that prayer and committed your life to Jesus, please e-mail us and let us know. We would like to pray for you and send you some free literature. Please send your postal mailing address.
Find a good Bible-teaching church that teaches God’s Word, sound doctrine, Bible prophecy, the Revelation, not just stories about worldly things. They should also love and support Israel and the Jewish people. Attend often and get baptized. Tell others that Jesus is your only hope of salvation. If you’ve just said that prayer and committed your life to Jesus, please e-mail us and let us know. We would like to pray for you and send you some free literature. Please send your postal mailing address.
FINAL NOTE ON SALVATION
"After" we believe on Jesus Christ, "after" we have repented of our sins, we are commanded to be baptized by full immersion in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. It is written, HE THAT BELIEVETH AND IS BAPTIZED SHALL BE SAVED; BUT HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT SHALL BE DAMNED-Mk 16:16. Note, believing on Jesus comes "before" water baptism. Infant baptism or any baptism prior to repenting and believing on Jesus has no meaning. You cannot be baptized into One on Whom you do not believe. It is written, FOR AS MANY OF YOU AS HAVE BEEN BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST HAVE PUT ON CHRIST-Gal 3:27. Water baptism is by full immersion. As it is written, BURIED WITH HIM (with Jesus) IN BAPTISM (or buried in the water)-Col 2:12, ref Ro 6:4. Jesus commanded, GO YE THEREFORE, AND TEACH ALL NATIONS, BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, AND OF THE SON, AND OF THE HOLY GHOST: TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER I HAVE COMMANDED YOU: AND, LO, I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, EVEN UNTO THE END OF THE WORLD. AMEN-Mt 28:19,20.
Surrender means "you give up." You stop putting your will before God’s will. You allow Jesus (God’s Word) to reign over you. You submit to Jesus and let Him become the Lord of your life.
If you have not yet humbled yourself, and totally surrendered to Jesus, and become as a little child (ref Mt 18:3), and continued steadfast in the faith, I would suggest that NOW IS THE ACCEPTED TIME; BEHOLD, NOW IS THE DAY OF SALVATION-2 Cor 6:2. Please submit to God, say the prayer, and mean it with all of your heart. God loves YOU and cares.
Surrender means "you give up." You stop putting your will before God’s will. You allow Jesus (God’s Word) to reign over you. You submit to Jesus and let Him become the Lord of your life.
If you have not yet humbled yourself, and totally surrendered to Jesus, and become as a little child (ref Mt 18:3), and continued steadfast in the faith, I would suggest that NOW IS THE ACCEPTED TIME; BEHOLD, NOW IS THE DAY OF SALVATION-2 Cor 6:2. Please submit to God, say the prayer, and mean it with all of your heart. God loves YOU and cares.
I CALL HEAVEN AND EARTH TO RECORD THIS DAY AGAINST YOU, THAT I HAVE SET BEFORE YOU LIFE AND DEATH, BLESSING AND CURSING: THEREFORE CHOOSE LIFE, THAT…THOU…MAY LIVE-Deut 30:19.
SPIRITUAL WARFARE
WHAT CAN A BORN AGAIN CHRISTIAN EXPECT?—JOY AND PEACE, BUT ALSO PERSECUTIONS, TEMPTATIONS, AND THE UNEXPECTED
Each person that decides to follow Jesus must also launch out into the unknown. Little do most of us realize what this means. There is joy, peace, rejoicing, and love, but there are also battles to be fought against the powers of darkness. There are Goliaths to overcome. Persecutions, temptations, sufferings, problems, and the unexpected lie ahead. There is a war to be fought against our own desires, our flesh, and our own wrong thinking. There are struggles ahead and doubts to overcome, as we try to row upstream against the strong current that is going downstream. Our faith (or trust in God) will be tested to see if it is genuine (ref 1 Pe 1:7), as we go through many unexpected things and what seems to be impossible situations. We are called to overcome through Jesus. As we fight the good fight of faith, as we struggle against what seems to be the impossible, God is with us and in us. Our biggest battle is against ourselves and within ourselves. It is against our own fears, wrong thinking, our emotions, looking back, denying ourselves, and our own desires which run contrary to God’s Word. We are called to deny self, follow Jesus, to study and obey His Word, to conform to His image, and to serve Him. We will not be tempted beyond that which we are able to endure-ref 1 Cor 10:13.
There are times when we will feel like there is a huge rope pulling on our right hand and another pulling in the opposite direction on our left. We will feel like we are being torn apart. The battle rages in our thoughts, in our flesh, and in our emotions. We may cry out to Jesus to help and save us as we sink. And He will, but we need to learn patience. In this struggle, some people turn away from God, while others turn more to God. A person’s heart decides which way he will go. As Jesus suffered, we are called to suffer-ref Ro 8:17.
And beware, because Satan deceives the whole world-ref Rev 12:9. Satan uses false religions, your love for a certain church or person, money, lusts, cares of this life, pleasures, pride, possessions, your personal desires, fears or worries, rejection, hurts, even love, anger, and unforgiveness, plus many other devices, to try to make you believe certain Scriptures do not mean what they say. He succeeded with Eve. Will he deceive you also? Because of such deceptions, many people have left the Lord and God’s calling on their life.
While there is darkness all around us, we have the Light. Therefore, as we let down our nets, there will be a catch. Our nets may break. We may cry out for help. We may even be arrested and killed for our faith, but we have the victory of eternity with no more tears, if (we) continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel-ref Col 1:23. We are called to overcome all things-ref Rev 2 and 3, but we cannot do this apart from Jesus.
We need to fight the good fight of faith and endure to the end. If we keep our eyes and faith centered on Jesus; if we look forward to being with Him for eternity; and if we look for the city called—New Jerusalem; and if we remain humble and receptive to God’s correction, not looking back, we should one day hear the words, WELL DONE, GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT-ref Mt 25:23. If we look at our problems, unbiblical desires, and look back at our past, we can expect to fall by the wayside. When riding a bike, if you keep looking back, you can expect to crash. When a person disobeys God’s Word (such as looking back), he gives a place for Satan to attack him-Eph 4:27.
The Bible has much to say on this battle inside you. Regretfully, this kind of teaching is seldom found in the churches of today. But this and also the falling away from God was prophesied in His Word in Rev 3:14-22; 2 Thes 2:3 and other Scriptures also.
Eph 6:10-11-Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 1 Cor 16:13-Watch ye (be on your guard), stand fast in the faith, quit you like men (be men of courage-NIV), be strong.
There are times when we will feel like there is a huge rope pulling on our right hand and another pulling in the opposite direction on our left. We will feel like we are being torn apart. The battle rages in our thoughts, in our flesh, and in our emotions. We may cry out to Jesus to help and save us as we sink. And He will, but we need to learn patience. In this struggle, some people turn away from God, while others turn more to God. A person’s heart decides which way he will go. As Jesus suffered, we are called to suffer-ref Ro 8:17.
And beware, because Satan deceives the whole world-ref Rev 12:9. Satan uses false religions, your love for a certain church or person, money, lusts, cares of this life, pleasures, pride, possessions, your personal desires, fears or worries, rejection, hurts, even love, anger, and unforgiveness, plus many other devices, to try to make you believe certain Scriptures do not mean what they say. He succeeded with Eve. Will he deceive you also? Because of such deceptions, many people have left the Lord and God’s calling on their life.
While there is darkness all around us, we have the Light. Therefore, as we let down our nets, there will be a catch. Our nets may break. We may cry out for help. We may even be arrested and killed for our faith, but we have the victory of eternity with no more tears, if (we) continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel-ref Col 1:23. We are called to overcome all things-ref Rev 2 and 3, but we cannot do this apart from Jesus.
We need to fight the good fight of faith and endure to the end. If we keep our eyes and faith centered on Jesus; if we look forward to being with Him for eternity; and if we look for the city called—New Jerusalem; and if we remain humble and receptive to God’s correction, not looking back, we should one day hear the words, WELL DONE, GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT-ref Mt 25:23. If we look at our problems, unbiblical desires, and look back at our past, we can expect to fall by the wayside. When riding a bike, if you keep looking back, you can expect to crash. When a person disobeys God’s Word (such as looking back), he gives a place for Satan to attack him-Eph 4:27.
The Bible has much to say on this battle inside you. Regretfully, this kind of teaching is seldom found in the churches of today. But this and also the falling away from God was prophesied in His Word in Rev 3:14-22; 2 Thes 2:3 and other Scriptures also.
Eph 6:10-11-Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 1 Cor 16:13-Watch ye (be on your guard), stand fast in the faith, quit you like men (be men of courage-NIV), be strong.
| Valley of Megiddo where Armageddon will take place. |
SITE PURPOSE
TO SEEK AND TO SAVE THAT WHICH WAS LOST-Lk 19:10. TO FEED (HIS) LAMBS; FEED (HIS) SHEEP-ref Jn 21:15-17. As God in His mercy enables us—to humbly, freely, and truthfully present the gospel clearly with sound bible teaching—so that people might EXAMINE THEMSELVES TO SEE IF THEY ARE IN THE FAITH-ref Mt 10:8; 2 Cor 13:5; Titus 2:1. To exhort people to REPENT-ref Mk 1:15; Lk 13:3; to believe on and receive JESUS CHRIST by FAITH, as their ONLY HOPE of SALVATION-ref Mk 1:15; Eph 2:8-10; Gal 3:26; and afterwards to be BAPTIZED by FULL IMMERSION-ref Ro 6:4; Col 2:12; IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, AND OF THE SON, AND OF THE HOLY GHOST-ref Mt 28:18. To encourage people to faithfully READ-ref Col 4:16; 1 Thes 5:27; STUDY-ref 2 Tim 2:15; and OBEY THE GOSPEL-ref Heb 5:9.
JESUS CHRIST, (THE WORD-Rev 19:13), GOD’S ONLY BEGOTTEN SON-1 Jn 4:9, WHO CREATED ALL THINGS-Col 1:16, is the CENTER and FOCUS of this website and ministry.
JESUS CHRIST, (THE WORD-Rev 19:13), GOD’S ONLY BEGOTTEN SON-1 Jn 4:9, WHO CREATED ALL THINGS-Col 1:16, is the CENTER and FOCUS of this website and ministry.
INVITATION
A story I once heard went this way‚ as I recall. There was a man who kept saying to his preacher year after year, “In the 11th hour I will come to Jesus.” Then one afternoon he was in the preacher's office and said the same thing. He left. Then there was a terrifying noise as a car slammed on it's brakes. The man lay in the street dead. A person said to the preacher, “He didn't know this day was his eleventh hour.” May I suggest you don’t put off receiving Jesus as your Lord and Savior. If you’ve left Jesus, return quickly before your time runs out.
FEAR THE LORD, AND DEPART FROM EVIL-Pv 3:7. This is the generation when the people of the world WILL NOT ENDURE SOUND DOCTRINE…THEY WILL TURN THEIR EARS AWAY FROM THE TRUTH-2 Tim 4:3,4. (Is this you?)Let him that is thirstty for God—COME. WHOSOEVER WILL, LET HIM TAKE THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY-ref Rev 22:17. GOD IS NOT WILLING THAT “YOU” SHOULD PERISH—but are YOU WILLING TO REPENT?-ref 2 Pe 3:9.
FEAR THE LORD, AND DEPART FROM EVIL-Pv 3:7. This is the generation when the people of the world WILL NOT ENDURE SOUND DOCTRINE…THEY WILL TURN THEIR EARS AWAY FROM THE TRUTH-2 Tim 4:3,4. (Is this you?)Let him that is thirstty for God—COME. WHOSOEVER WILL, LET HIM TAKE THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY-ref Rev 22:17. GOD IS NOT WILLING THAT “YOU” SHOULD PERISH—but are YOU WILLING TO REPENT?-ref 2 Pe 3:9.
May God bless you.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
LIFE
One of the most popular essay topic among students is “Essay about Life” where every student tries to describe hisher life, problems, priorities and outlooks. To write a good essay about life one should be able to reflect a little, to release hisher mind from other thoughts and to start writing an essay on life.
Here’s a sample essay about life written by one of our professional essay writers
“Life is beautiful and yet life is not a bed of roses. Though it is full of ups and downs it has many facets of blessings and successes.
To some people, life is hard, cruel and merciless. These set of people see life as punishment throughout their entire lives. They therefore resigned themselves to fate, believing all is finished. To them, nothing that they do can ever be good. They take delight in committing crimes and maiming others to avenge their ill-fortune. They lost every sense of direction and most times, some of them go as far as committing suicide, just to escape the injustice life has meted out to them.
But there are those who see life as a challenge, a channel of discovery and innovation, a prospect for success and a gateway to wealth. To them life is sweet, colourful and kind. No matter the situation these people find themselves, they keep pressing on, believing in a cause, a cause to succeed and get the most out of life. No wonder an adage says, “Where there is life, there is hope.”
The will to succeed or fail lies within an individual jurisdiction. You can live life to the fullest with utmost satisfaction and fulfillment if you determine with all your mind, body and soul to succeed. On the other hand, life can be miserable to you if you take everything for granted and wait on fate to play itself out.
Setting of goals and strategic plans that will strive no matter the odds which may move against you is one of the basic things needed to get the best out of life. These goals which must be result oriented, should be followed up consistently even if things seem blurred or unyielding at first.
Also, the mind is the centre of everything. It controls your thoughts and beliefs. A focused mind has never fail. A positive mind helps one to discover his talents and potentials. Great men and women, both living and dead, had their minds focused on something and nothing deterred them from achieving their dreams. Each of them had a belief, should I say faith, which they held onto, they nurture the belief, focused all their attention and live on it. And today, we have benefited in one way or the other from their inventions and great ideas.
Life is a challenge. And for anyone to succeed in life, he must be ready to show the stuff he is made of. He must be ready to sacrifice his time and build up his mind frame toward success. What is happening in our environment should not influence or affect us in our daily quest for success in life. Instead, we should control the happenings around us.
Life is so easy, yet many people rush and miss what they want to achieve in life. Don’t rush in life. Take one step at a time. Each step should be properly planned before being launched. Steady, balance, mark and shoot. And before you know it, the sky will become the beginning of your success.
All the great men of today, has one way or the other tasted the other side of life but they did not cower. Instead, they were renewed to redefine their goals; they ride on with faith, believing in their potentials, focusing their mind on something, knowing fully well that in every black cloud there
When does life really begin Is it when the first fluttering beats of the primitive heart of a fetus start, or when the child is pushed from the womb into the world Does it all actually start at the moment of conception when the egg and sperm meet and mix their genetic code together to create a new being. Who can say really. No one knows because no one is sure of when life truely begins.
There are many out there who say an unborn child isn't really a person, or even alive because it can not sustain it's own life. If this were true, then no one is a real person until they are living on their own away from their parents. When you stop and really think about this, without listening to the arguments about when life starts or if something is considered alive until a certain time, you would suprised at what you may find.
When the primitive heart of a tiny fetus starts to beat for the first time, it is then that it starts to actually survive on its own, apart from its mother. Though at this time, most mothers-to-be don't know they are mothers yet, they begin to change their attitude to a more gentle caring way and doing what they can to protect the tiny life inside them in many different ways. Its that life growing inside them that started those mothering instincts. Its those instincts that protect it from harm until it is able to survive outside the womb and until it can live apart from its mother later in life. Even beyond that point, any mother will protect her young from everything she can.
I'm not a scientist, a theologist, or even a doctor. I am just an average woman with a child of her own. From the moment I felt those first flutterings of life within me and heard my child's beating heart for the first time, all thanks to modern technology, I have thought about when life truely began. No matter what, from the very beginning when the egg and sperm meet, it is a living breathing human being. Sometimes, the life can not go beyond a few weeks inside the mother, but its still alive, until it can not go any longer. There are times, when that life has to be ended, in such cases, it is still sad, but if the mother is to live, then it has to be done. There are other times, when frankly, it is best because there are other problems such as a tumor which is eating away at the child little by little. It doesn't change the fact the child had to die, but at least, it had a small chance and brought just a little happiness into the mother's life.
So, when does life really begin I don't know, but when ever it does, its all well worth keeping it going, for the rewards are more than what anyone truely deserves.
Here’s a sample essay about life written by one of our professional essay writers
“Life is beautiful and yet life is not a bed of roses. Though it is full of ups and downs it has many facets of blessings and successes.
To some people, life is hard, cruel and merciless. These set of people see life as punishment throughout their entire lives. They therefore resigned themselves to fate, believing all is finished. To them, nothing that they do can ever be good. They take delight in committing crimes and maiming others to avenge their ill-fortune. They lost every sense of direction and most times, some of them go as far as committing suicide, just to escape the injustice life has meted out to them.
But there are those who see life as a challenge, a channel of discovery and innovation, a prospect for success and a gateway to wealth. To them life is sweet, colourful and kind. No matter the situation these people find themselves, they keep pressing on, believing in a cause, a cause to succeed and get the most out of life. No wonder an adage says, “Where there is life, there is hope.”
The will to succeed or fail lies within an individual jurisdiction. You can live life to the fullest with utmost satisfaction and fulfillment if you determine with all your mind, body and soul to succeed. On the other hand, life can be miserable to you if you take everything for granted and wait on fate to play itself out.
Setting of goals and strategic plans that will strive no matter the odds which may move against you is one of the basic things needed to get the best out of life. These goals which must be result oriented, should be followed up consistently even if things seem blurred or unyielding at first.
Also, the mind is the centre of everything. It controls your thoughts and beliefs. A focused mind has never fail. A positive mind helps one to discover his talents and potentials. Great men and women, both living and dead, had their minds focused on something and nothing deterred them from achieving their dreams. Each of them had a belief, should I say faith, which they held onto, they nurture the belief, focused all their attention and live on it. And today, we have benefited in one way or the other from their inventions and great ideas.
Life is a challenge. And for anyone to succeed in life, he must be ready to show the stuff he is made of. He must be ready to sacrifice his time and build up his mind frame toward success. What is happening in our environment should not influence or affect us in our daily quest for success in life. Instead, we should control the happenings around us.
Life is so easy, yet many people rush and miss what they want to achieve in life. Don’t rush in life. Take one step at a time. Each step should be properly planned before being launched. Steady, balance, mark and shoot. And before you know it, the sky will become the beginning of your success.
All the great men of today, has one way or the other tasted the other side of life but they did not cower. Instead, they were renewed to redefine their goals; they ride on with faith, believing in their potentials, focusing their mind on something, knowing fully well that in every black cloud there
When does life really begin Is it when the first fluttering beats of the primitive heart of a fetus start, or when the child is pushed from the womb into the world Does it all actually start at the moment of conception when the egg and sperm meet and mix their genetic code together to create a new being. Who can say really. No one knows because no one is sure of when life truely begins.
There are many out there who say an unborn child isn't really a person, or even alive because it can not sustain it's own life. If this were true, then no one is a real person until they are living on their own away from their parents. When you stop and really think about this, without listening to the arguments about when life starts or if something is considered alive until a certain time, you would suprised at what you may find.
When the primitive heart of a tiny fetus starts to beat for the first time, it is then that it starts to actually survive on its own, apart from its mother. Though at this time, most mothers-to-be don't know they are mothers yet, they begin to change their attitude to a more gentle caring way and doing what they can to protect the tiny life inside them in many different ways. Its that life growing inside them that started those mothering instincts. Its those instincts that protect it from harm until it is able to survive outside the womb and until it can live apart from its mother later in life. Even beyond that point, any mother will protect her young from everything she can.
I'm not a scientist, a theologist, or even a doctor. I am just an average woman with a child of her own. From the moment I felt those first flutterings of life within me and heard my child's beating heart for the first time, all thanks to modern technology, I have thought about when life truely began. No matter what, from the very beginning when the egg and sperm meet, it is a living breathing human being. Sometimes, the life can not go beyond a few weeks inside the mother, but its still alive, until it can not go any longer. There are times, when that life has to be ended, in such cases, it is still sad, but if the mother is to live, then it has to be done. There are other times, when frankly, it is best because there are other problems such as a tumor which is eating away at the child little by little. It doesn't change the fact the child had to die, but at least, it had a small chance and brought just a little happiness into the mother's life.
So, when does life really begin I don't know, but when ever it does, its all well worth keeping it going, for the rewards are more than what anyone truely deserves.
Friday, December 10, 2010
bin tere-reprise
Bin Tere Reprise
Here's a beautiful song only on acoustic guitars with beautiful strumming. This is the reprise version of Bin Tere, and it surely is a reprise. Sung by the Music Director himself, Shekhar Ravjiani of Vishal-Shekhar. I remember him singing Aazmale from Taxi no 9211.
Shekhar is brilliant on vocals in this one, singing it as if he is sitting in his room with a guitar and composing the song. This song is only on guitars with beautiful simple notes, and Shekhar's soothing voice. It's my fav song from the album. I liked Sadka Kiya as well, and the original Bin Tere sung by Shafqat Amanat Ali.
Alright, so to conclude, this is a must listen song. Simple, sweet and perfect - not a wrong note anywhere! This version should be on all your favorites playlists and on replay. It sounds lovely on guitar. The song is on a C, and there aren't much variations. And if you are not comfortable playing on a C, take it a note higher.
Bin Tere Reprise - I Hate Luv Storys Guitar Chords Lyrics Tabs Song Facts & Meaning
C Em Am (INTRO)
C Am C Am G (Ooooo.. ooohooh.. ooooo)
......c.................Am........
Teri Nigahon ke Teri hi raahon ke
F.........G........c...
Kareeb se gayi zindagi
......c......................Am........
Tujhe kyun dekha na Tujhe kyun jana na
F..........G........C..
Shikayatein karun ya nahi
Am......................C..........Em.......
Thami hai yeh saasein Bhari hai yeh aanhkein
Am.................G..
Sahu kaise abb yeh fasla
...C.......Em..........Am
Bin Tere Bin Tere Bin Tereeee
....G..............F...............C
Koi khalish hai hawaon mein Bin Tere
...C.......Em..........Am
Bin Tere Bin Tere Bin Tereeee
....G..............F...............C
Koi khalish hai hawaon mein Bin Tere
SOLO
..C.................Am.....
Kuch bacha hi nahi darmiyan
..G.............F.........C..
Saaans leti hai abb yeh dooriyann
C...............Am.....
Dil nahi janta raahon mein
.G..............F..........C..
Haath se haath chhoote the kahan
..C............Am.........C.............Am......G...
Kyun Nazar ke kinaare Tutte hai khwaab saaare Tu bata
..C..........Am.........C.........Am......G...
Suna suna sama hai Khali khali jahan hai aab mera
...C.......Em..........Am
Bin Tere Bin Tere Bin Tereeee
....G..............F...............C
Koi khalish hai hawaon mein Bin Tere
...C.......Em..........Am
Bin Tere Bin Tere Bin Tereeee
....G..............F...............C
Koi khalish hai hawaon mein Bin Tere
aboui guitar
William Gradante has taught mariachi since 1980 in Fort Worth, Texas; is the author of a definitive article on the life of Jose Alfredo Jimenez; and is a scholar in the field of Colombian regional folk music.
The armonías section of the mariachi ensemble provides the rhythmic and harmonic foundation upon which the melodic offerings of the trumpet and violin sections are laid. “Armonías” best translates as “harmonies” or “accompaniment” and includes the vihuela, guitar, and guitarra de golpe players, and occasionally the guitarrón and harp players. However, performing the role of accompanists in the mariachi ensemble represents only a small part of what students do in my armonías classes.
Because armonías players are not the “melody-makers” of the ensemble, some mariachi teachers “leave them to their own devices,” allowing them to develop their own strumming and chording techniques while the teachers concentrate on developing the melodic skills of the violin and trumpet players. This oversight may be due to the relative lack of guitar expertise on the part of the teacher. Whatever the case may be, it is my opinion that mariachi guitar students are being given short shrift when it comes to their musical education. I have on several occasions spoken with high school armonías players in different schools, districts, and states and discovered that many are not only unaware of the music theory-related aspects of their accompaniment playing, but even the names of the open strings on their instruments! It goes further: I have given professional development training to practicing mariachi instructors who themselves demonstrated a similar lack of awareness.
It took a number of years to impress upon my school district the educational value—even necessity—of teaching the mariachi students in homogenous classes. An especially poignant argument was that the armonías students were graduating from high school with no music education options, as one cannot make college entrance auditions on guitarrón, vihuela, guitarra de golpe, or even mariachi guitar. Once I was permitted to teach my armonía players in a “Guitar Class,” however, I was able to design a Mariachi Armonía curriculum around the development of classic guitar technique, opening a wide range of opportunities to my students. Furthermore, I feel that it makes the teaching of the mariachi ensemble both easier and more efficient.
During the first month of class, 6th graders are given a syllabus describing the kinds of things they will learn. More effective is for me to simply perform the scales, chords, and songs that they can look forward to learning, indicating the month by which they can expect to have mastered them. They also need to purchase their textbook, bring in the instrument rental/maintenance fee, and turn in the school district’s Instrument Use form (see Figure 1).
The right hand fingers derive their names from their Spanish designations:
We begin learning the patterns of alternation between right hand fingers in the performance of both scales and melodies, including:
After making a clear distinction between rest stroke (apoyando) and free stroke (tirando), students perform this exercise in their laps, using their left hand fingers as “strings.” It is important to point out that the right hand fingers should press the string into the sound hole from a 45-degree angle, ending their arc-like motion with the fingernails approaching the palm.
Figure 3. Posture
As all bodies are unique, there is no single “correct” posture. A “correct” posture promotes the physical comfort of the guitarist, allowing him or her to perform comfortably for extended periods. In general, the body should be poised, leaning into and around the guitar, not slumped behind it.
I demonstrate my personal performance posture—standing and sitting, both with and without a guitar— for the students to imitate (see Figure 3 above). We practice the movements required in “shifting” between upper and lower positions, moving the elbow alternately toward and away from the torso, keeping the knuckles, wrist, and elbow in alignment. Still with no instruments, on our right thighs, we practice various right hand finger alternation combinations.
DO:
DON'T:
The focus of instruction then turns to the names of the lines and spaces above, below, and on the staff. We use mnemonic devices to help students learn the names of each, such as “Elvis’ Guitar Broke Down Friday” for the lines and “FACE” for the spaces.
Handclapping simple rhythms written on the chalkboard is next. Students create their own rhythms, and then we get to clap them out. As all students are aware that no guitar will be assigned until the entire class “gets all this stuff,” full clapping participation is virtually guaranteed—plus, the kids love being asked to get loud!
As the year winds down, students naturally begin to separate into ability-level groups. Students are not measured against each other, but are encouraged to progress at their own rate, studying the pieces that interest them. I provide exceptionally talented and motivated students with three selections from the State of Texas “Prescribed Music List” (hereafter referred to as the “PML”) for “University Interscholastic League” (UIL) Solo and Ensemble competition.
When one examines the repertoire of any mariachi ensemble (see the MENC October 2006 Mariachi Newsletter offering by Mark Fogelquist), the existence of several genres of mariachi music becomes evident. The easiest way to distinguish these genres is by the specific mánico (strumming pattern) employed by the armonía players. These genres/mánicos, listed in the approximate order of their introduction, include:
(see Figure 7, Figure 8, and Figure 9 for examples of typical mánicos)
This has an enormous effect upon the manner in which you can teach your classes. Obviously, in order to perform their traditional role in the mariachi ensemble, the armonía players must learn to play chords, so I teach these one key at a time, reinforcing the I-IV-V7-I model, utilizing a student-generated rubric to evaluate and reward student progress toward what we call “Key Mastery.” To claim “mastery” of chordal performance in any given key, the student would have to demonstrate the following:
1. the ability to name the three primary chords in the key
2. the correct fingering of each chord
3. making all six chord changes (I-V7, V7-I, I-IV, IV-I, IV-V7, V7-IV)
4. making all six chord changes in rhythm—NO PAUSES
5. making changes with fingers jumping into position—NO WALKING
6. proper right hand wrist strumming—NO FOREARM ACTION
7. clear sound production—NO BUZZING
8. sight-reading a piece in the given key (the "Mastery Song")
When 7th graders feel ready to demonstrate mastery of a given key, they can perform the required test—sight-reading a previously unknown piece of music—while referring to the posted rubric and then tell me themselves which standards they feel they have mastered and which require further practice
The armonías section of the mariachi ensemble provides the rhythmic and harmonic foundation upon which the melodic offerings of the trumpet and violin sections are laid. “Armonías” best translates as “harmonies” or “accompaniment” and includes the vihuela, guitar, and guitarra de golpe players, and occasionally the guitarrón and harp players. However, performing the role of accompanists in the mariachi ensemble represents only a small part of what students do in my armonías classes.
Because armonías players are not the “melody-makers” of the ensemble, some mariachi teachers “leave them to their own devices,” allowing them to develop their own strumming and chording techniques while the teachers concentrate on developing the melodic skills of the violin and trumpet players. This oversight may be due to the relative lack of guitar expertise on the part of the teacher. Whatever the case may be, it is my opinion that mariachi guitar students are being given short shrift when it comes to their musical education. I have on several occasions spoken with high school armonías players in different schools, districts, and states and discovered that many are not only unaware of the music theory-related aspects of their accompaniment playing, but even the names of the open strings on their instruments! It goes further: I have given professional development training to practicing mariachi instructors who themselves demonstrated a similar lack of awareness.
It took a number of years to impress upon my school district the educational value—even necessity—of teaching the mariachi students in homogenous classes. An especially poignant argument was that the armonías students were graduating from high school with no music education options, as one cannot make college entrance auditions on guitarrón, vihuela, guitarra de golpe, or even mariachi guitar. Once I was permitted to teach my armonía players in a “Guitar Class,” however, I was able to design a Mariachi Armonía curriculum around the development of classic guitar technique, opening a wide range of opportunities to my students. Furthermore, I feel that it makes the teaching of the mariachi ensemble both easier and more efficient.
Classic Guitar in the Mariachi Classroom
The study of mariachi music in our school district has traditionally begun at the 6th grade level and continued through the 12th grade. In the first three to four weeks of school, 6th grade students are taught the basics of both music literacy and guitar performance practice. We refer to the class as “Guitar Class” and not as “Mariachi Class,” and stress that the techniques presented apply to whatever specific musical styles the individual student’s tastes may be oriented. From the moment the 6th graders arrive in my classroom, they want to know exactly when they are going to have a guitar placed in their hands. I respond that they must first achieve mastery in six distinct areas of “Guitar Knowledge”:- Guitar Parts;
- Finger Names and Right-Hand Alternation;
- Performance Posture;
- Guitar Care;
- Note Values; and
- Note Reading.
Getting Started
During the first month of class, 6th graders are given a syllabus describing the kinds of things they will learn. More effective is for me to simply perform the scales, chords, and songs that they can look forward to learning, indicating the month by which they can expect to have mastered them. They also need to purchase their textbook, bring in the instrument rental/maintenance fee, and turn in the school district’s Instrument Use form (see Figure 1).Parts of the Guitar
Sixth grade students are told that they are being made privy to a secret language of specialized guitar terminology from which even band, orchestra, and choir members are excluded. We create a “Word Wall” that displays the definitions of musical, mariachi, and guitar jargon. A diagram of guitar parts is included in their textbook (see Figure 2 below) so they can study the part names at home. For the first several weeks, I spend the first ten minutes of class drawing a guitar on the chalkboard following specific instructions from the students as to the location, size, and function of the various parts. I will then hold up the guitar and have individual students name each guitar part as I point to it.Finger Names and Right-Hand Alternation
The next area students should master is the naming of right and left hand fingers. The left thumb remains numberless, as its function is to provide counter-resistance to the actions of the fingers, which are numbered as follows:- 1 index
- 2 middle
- 3 ring
- 4 pinkie
The right hand fingers derive their names from their Spanish designations:
- p pulgar (thumb)
- i índice (index)
- m medio (middle)
- a anular (ring)
- c chico ("pinkie," not used)
We begin learning the patterns of alternation between right hand fingers in the performance of both scales and melodies, including:
- i–m m–i
- m–a a–m
- i–a a–i
After making a clear distinction between rest stroke (apoyando) and free stroke (tirando), students perform this exercise in their laps, using their left hand fingers as “strings.” It is important to point out that the right hand fingers should press the string into the sound hole from a 45-degree angle, ending their arc-like motion with the fingernails approaching the palm.
Developing a “Correct” Posture
In teaching proper performance posture, a fundamental tenet is “centering,” positioning the instrument in the center of the torso in both sitting and standing postures. In order to keep the neck/fingerboard at an angle somewhere between 30 and 45 degrees to the floor, the left foot may be propped up, ideally with a classic guitar footstool. This means that the guitar should rest on the left, rather than the right thigh. “Centering” the guitar facilitates the movements of both hands in performance and allows the back, arms, and shoulders to remain aligned and relaxed, while ensuring that the resonating surfaces of the guitar do not rest against the body.Figure 3. Posture
As all bodies are unique, there is no single “correct” posture. A “correct” posture promotes the physical comfort of the guitarist, allowing him or her to perform comfortably for extended periods. In general, the body should be poised, leaning into and around the guitar, not slumped behind it.
I demonstrate my personal performance posture—standing and sitting, both with and without a guitar— for the students to imitate (see Figure 3 above). We practice the movements required in “shifting” between upper and lower positions, moving the elbow alternately toward and away from the torso, keeping the knuckles, wrist, and elbow in alignment. Still with no instruments, on our right thighs, we practice various right hand finger alternation combinations.
Care of the Guitar
In the process of the students’ completing the school district’s Instrument Use forms required to rent a school-owned guitar, I emphasize that students will be personally and financially responsible for its everyday maintenance, including cleaning, polishing, re-stringing, and tuning the instrument. Since students will be held responsible, we devote time to ensure that they thoroughly understand the “DOs” and “DON’Ts” of guitar care:DO:
- Keep a handkerchief-sized piece of cloth in your case to wipe the instrument clean for 10–30 seconds after every class and at-home practice session
- Along with the cloth, keep your textbook, talís (classic guitar strap), pencil, and a set of extra strings in your case
- Clean, polish, and correctly re-string your guitar before the Winter and Spring concerts
- Keep the instrument in tune using proper procedures
DON'T:
- Don't expose your guitar to extreme temperatures (don't leave it in your trunk or on your porch)
- Don't apply furniture polish to its surfaces
- Don't use steel strings
- Don't leave your guitar unattended—instead, lock it in the classroom instrument cabinet
- Don't leave candy or chewing gum in your case—or you may end up with uninvited guests!
Notes, Lines, and Spaces
The focus of instruction then turns to the names of the lines and spaces above, below, and on the staff. We use mnemonic devices to help students learn the names of each, such as “Elvis’ Guitar Broke Down Friday” for the lines and “FACE” for the spaces.Note Values
We now recite the names and shapes of the different types of notes, rests, and their relative values as part of our daily routine. I find it helpful to teach these terms bilingually, as the Spanish designations are free of certain areas of confusion inherent in the American system. For example, students logically expect that a “whole note” should receive a “whole” beat. By contrast, kids can easily see that a redonda, a “Spanish whole note,” is actually round, as its name suggests:- whole note = 4 beats = redonda
- half note = 2 beats = blanca
- quarter note = 1 beat = negra
- eighth note = 1/2 beat = corchea
- sixteenth note = 1/4 beat = semicorchea
Handclapping simple rhythms written on the chalkboard is next. Students create their own rhythms, and then we get to clap them out. As all students are aware that no guitar will be assigned until the entire class “gets all this stuff,” full clapping participation is virtually guaranteed—plus, the kids love being asked to get loud!
Placing Instruments in Their Hands!
The students then take their four-part examination in “Guitar Parts,” “Guitar Care,” “Note Values,” and “Lines & Spaces.” Afterward, I assign guitars to everyone, allowing “re-takes” for those who failed to earn perfect scores. The students’ dedication through the first four weeks has paid off, as I can say, “Play me some half notes on the first string!” and they enjoy immediate success! Within two or three days I send the guitars home with the students, having them promise that they will practice thirty minutes a day.Note Reading
Individual notes are learned on a string-by-string basis, beginning with String #1 (E), the thinnest and the closest to the floor when the guitar is in playing position. After learning the notes on each of the first three strings (E, B, and G), the students learn and memorize five simple melodies. This process is then repeated using the three bass strings (D, A, and E). By Thanksgiving Break, all 6th graders are able to do the exercises depicted in Figure 4. The students will also be able to perform a number of simple melodies and carols, and can navigate through a piece, observing such conventions as repeat signs, first and second endings, Fine, Segno, Coda, D.C. al Fine, and D.S. al Coda.Learning Our First Chords
The Winter Concert in mid-December marks our first foray into traditional mariachi repertoire. I invite a dozen or so guitarists who have mastered all ten songs required to rehearse “Cielito Lindo” and “De Colores” after school with the 6th grade violin students. Having developed sufficient finger independence, strength, and dexterity through our regimen, these students have a relatively easy time learning the basic chords necessary to perform in the mariachi setting in the two weeks prior to the concert.Second Semester of 6th Grade
Beginning in the second semester, students learn to perform duets and trios and, before Spring Break, arrange their own simple duets, notating the two parts both manually and using the music-writing program on the computer. We break up into “mini-mariachis” as we perform in guitar trios (“Cielito Lindo”), quartets (“De Colores” and “Las Mañanitas”), and quintets (“Las Chiapanecas” and “En Tu Día”). Each arrangement in our 6th grade text includes melodic and harmonic lines, as well as a bass part and a chordal accompaniment. Students are assigned specific parts for each ensemble piece, to ensure that they are becoming well-rounded guitarists.As the year winds down, students naturally begin to separate into ability-level groups. Students are not measured against each other, but are encouraged to progress at their own rate, studying the pieces that interest them. I provide exceptionally talented and motivated students with three selections from the State of Texas “Prescribed Music List” (hereafter referred to as the “PML”) for “University Interscholastic League” (UIL) Solo and Ensemble competition.
7th Grade
A fundamental goal of 7th grade Guitar Class is learning to perform polyphonically. That is, students will perform melodic and harmonic lines with their right hand fingers while simultaneously providing a bass line with the thumb. Seventh graders also study expanded scales, the seven scale degrees, and the major, relative natural, harmonic, and melodic minor scales. This means each class now begins with the kids naming, defining, and performing the scales depicted in Figure 5 and Figure 6, along with associated arpeggio (“Word Wall!”) exercises.When one examines the repertoire of any mariachi ensemble (see the MENC October 2006 Mariachi Newsletter offering by Mark Fogelquist), the existence of several genres of mariachi music becomes evident. The easiest way to distinguish these genres is by the specific mánico (strumming pattern) employed by the armonía players. These genres/mánicos, listed in the approximate order of their introduction, include:
(see Figure 7, Figure 8, and Figure 9 for examples of typical mánicos)
This has an enormous effect upon the manner in which you can teach your classes. Obviously, in order to perform their traditional role in the mariachi ensemble, the armonía players must learn to play chords, so I teach these one key at a time, reinforcing the I-IV-V7-I model, utilizing a student-generated rubric to evaluate and reward student progress toward what we call “Key Mastery.” To claim “mastery” of chordal performance in any given key, the student would have to demonstrate the following:
1. the ability to name the three primary chords in the key
2. the correct fingering of each chord
3. making all six chord changes (I-V7, V7-I, I-IV, IV-I, IV-V7, V7-IV)
4. making all six chord changes in rhythm—NO PAUSES
5. making changes with fingers jumping into position—NO WALKING
6. proper right hand wrist strumming—NO FOREARM ACTION
7. clear sound production—NO BUZZING
8. sight-reading a piece in the given key (the "Mastery Song")
When 7th graders feel ready to demonstrate mastery of a given key, they can perform the required test—sight-reading a previously unknown piece of music—while referring to the posted rubric and then tell me themselves which standards they feel they have mastered and which require further practice
wake up sid
sunoto jara hamko he ya Kehena waqt hai kya tumako pata hai na
so gayi raat jaake din hai abb jaag utha
aankhein masalata hai saara yeh sama
aawaazein bhi leti hai angadaayiya
wake up sid saare pal kahe, wake up sid chal kahin chale
wake up sid sab dishaao se aa rahi hai sada sun sako agar suno
wake up
yeh jo kahein woh jo kahein sun lo
baat jo sahin dil ko lage chun lo
karana hai kya tumhe yeh tum hi karo faisala
yeh soch lo tumakao jaana hai kahaan
tum hi musaafir tum hi toh ho kaarwaan
wake up sid saare pal kahe, wake up sid chal kahin chale
wake up sid sab dishaao se aa rahi hai sada sun sako agar suno
wake up
aaj bhi dekho kal jaisa hi na ho
aaj bhi yuun na tum sote hi raho
itane kyun sust ho kuchh kaho kuchh suno, kuchh na kuchh karo
ro padon ya hanso jindagi mein koyi na koyi toh rang bharo
wake up sid saare pal kahe, wake up sid chal kahin chale
wake up sid sab dishaao se aa rahi hai sada sun sako agar suno
wake up
(wake up sid saare pal kahe, wake up sid chal kahin chale
wake up sid sab dishaao se aa rahi hai sada sun sako agar suno) - (2)
wake up
ajab prem ki ghazab kahani
Shining In The Shade In Sun Like Pearl Upon The Ocean
Come And Feel Me Ho Feel Me Shining In The Shade In Sun Like Pearl Upon The Ocean Come And Feel Me, Come On Heal Me Thinking About The Love And Making Come And Feel Me Ho Feel Me Shining In The Shade In Sun Like Pearl Upon The Ocean
Come And Feel Me, Come On Heal Me Huwa Jo Tu Bhi Mera Mera, Tera Jo Ikraar Huwa Tu Kyun Na Main Bhi Keh Du Keh Du Huwa Mujhe Bhi Pyaar Huwa (Tera Hone Laga Hoon, Khone Laga Hoon, Jab Se Mila Hoon)- 2 Shining In The Shade In Sun Like Pearl Upon The Ocean Come And Feel Me Ho Feel Me Shining In The Shade In Sun Like Pearl Upon The Ocean Come And Feel Me, Come On Heal Me Waise Toh Mann Mera Pehale Bhi Raaton Mein Aksar Hi Chaahat Ke Haan Sapane Sanjota Tha Pehale Bhi Dhadkan Yeh Dhun Koyi Gaati Thi Par Abb Jo Hota Hai Woh Pehale Na Hota Tha Huwa Hai Tujhe Jo Bhi Jo Bhi, Mujhe Bhi Iss Baar Huwa Toh Kyun Na Main Bhi Keh Du Keh Du Huwa Mujhe Bhi Pyaar Huwa (Tera Hone Laga Hoon, Khone Laga Hoon, Jab Se Mila Hoon)- 2 Aankhon Se Chhu Lu Ke Baahein Tarasati Hai Dil Ne Pukaara Hai Haan Abb Toh Chale Aao Aao Ke Shabnam Ki Bunge Barasati Hai Mausam Ishaara Hai Haan Abb Toh Chale Aao Baahon Mein Daale Baahein Baahein, Baahon Ka Jaise Haar Huwa Haan Maine Maana Maana Huwa Mujhe Bhi Pyaar Huwa (Tera Hone Laga Hoon, Khone Laga Hoon, Jab Se Mila Hoon)- 2 Shining In The Shade In Sun Like Pearl Upon The Ocean Come And Feel Me Ho Feel Me Shining In The Shade In Sun Like Pearl Upon The Ocean Come And Heal Me, Girl Heal Me Thinking About The Love And Making Come And Feel Me Ho Feel Me Shining In The Shade In Sun Like Pearl Upon The Ocean Come And Feel Me, Come On Heal Me
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