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Thursday, 6 March 2025

How Big Data Might Reveal Patterns in Spiritual Experiences

In the digital age, social media, online discussions, and real-time interactions generate vast amounts of data about human thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This big data provides an unprecedented opportunity to study patterns in various aspects of human life, including spiritual experiences. Many people publicly share moments of profound insight, faith-based transformations, or encounters with what they perceive as the divine. By analyzing these accounts across large datasets, researchers could identify recurring themes, triggers, and contextual factors that shape spiritual experiences.


One potential avenue for exploration is the "aha moment" of faith—the instant when a person transitions from skepticism to belief, or experiences a sudden deepening of their spirituality. Social media interactions, blogs, and testimonials often document these moments, allowing researchers to study their language, emotional intensity, and common precursors. Advanced AI models could sift through millions of posts, identifying whether certain types of preaching, personal struggles, or external events (such as global crises) tend to correlate with increased reports of faith-related revelations.


Big data could also help in detecting spiritual phenomena that claim to defy conventional explanations, such as prophetic dreams, miraculous healings, or speaking in tongues. If enough people report similar experiences under comparable circumstances, patterns might emerge that suggest underlying psychological, neurological, or even external influences. Machine learning models could cluster these reports to see whether they align with cultural, geographical, or linguistic factors. For example, do prophetic dreams occur more frequently among people exposed to specific religious traditions, or do they transcend cultural backgrounds?


Another key area of study could be the impact of collective faith-based actions. Social media captures real-time interactions where groups engage in prayer, declarations of faith, or spiritual interventions. If a hurricane is expected to intensify but weakens while large groups publicly pray for its dissipation, data analysis could examine whether similar cases exist and whether statistical anomalies suggest an unexplained correlation. While correlation does not imply causation, repeated patterns could highlight areas for deeper investigation.


Furthermore, by comparing spiritual experiences to other forms of persuasion, big data could help distinguish faith-based transformations from non-spiritual belief shifts (such as changes in political views or consumer behavior). If the moment of religious conversion has unique characteristics—such as a different pattern of emotional intensity, cognitive restructuring, or long-term behavioral change—this could provide measurable indicators of the distinctiveness of spiritual persuasion. If faith-based insights show patterns that differ from typical persuasion tactics used in marketing or politics, this could suggest a unique cognitive or even external component to these experiences.


Ultimately, the vast amount of data being generated by digital platforms presents an opportunity to approach spiritual experiences with a new level of empirical rigor. Whether faith is seen as a psychological phenomenon, a social construct, or a real interaction with the divine, big data may provide fresh insights into how, when, and why spiritual transformations occur. By identifying measurable patterns, researchers could open new frontiers in the study of faith, consciousness, and the unexplored dimensions of human experience.


Stephen D Green with AI, March 2025 

The Role of Information in the Structure of Reality

 Throughout history, human understanding of the universe has evolved as we have sought to uncover the fundamental principles governing existence. The emergence of modern physics, cosmology, and information theory has led to profound insights, suggesting that at the core of reality lies something deeper than just matter and energy—information itself. This perspective raises fundamental questions about the nature of existence, the role of laws of physics in shaping reality, and even the possibility that information existed before the phenomena it governs. Could the universe be structured in such a way that life, consciousness, and complexity were not accidental occurrences, but rather inevitable consequences of the way fundamental information is embedded in nature?


One of the key ideas underpinning this discussion is that for anything to occur in the physical world, the mathematical relationships governing its behavior must first exist. The laws of gravity, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics are not merely descriptions of what happens; they are manifestations of underlying information that structures reality itself. If we take this view seriously, then even before life emerged, the information required for life to exist must have been present in some form—perhaps encoded in the very fabric of spacetime. The universe, from the moment of the Big Bang, was already infused with the rules that would later allow for the formation of galaxies, planets, and eventually, self-replicating biological systems.


This perspective aligns with the idea that information precedes form. Just as the blueprint of a building exists before the structure itself is assembled, the fundamental laws of physics and chemistry provide the informational framework within which complex systems can arise. Atoms behave in predictable ways, forming molecules and chemical reactions that lead to biological macromolecules like DNA and RNA. These molecules store and process information, allowing for the evolution of life through replication, mutation, and selection. But could the informational structure of reality extend beyond just the physical and biological? Could it also apply to concepts like consciousness, spiritual experiences, or even the persistence of identity beyond death?


If information is indeed fundamental, it may not be limited to what we currently classify as "physical." Some have speculated that phenomena such as faith, intuition, and spiritual experiences might be linked to a deeper informational substrate within reality. Just as social media and big data analysis allow us to track patterns of persuasion and belief in real time, the same tools could potentially reveal insights into the nature of spiritual or religious experiences. Could there be unique informational signatures associated with moments of profound insight, conversion, or experiences described as supernatural? If so, could these be studied empirically, much like other complex patterns in human cognition and behavior?


These ideas lead to broader questions about the nature of dark matter, dark energy, and the unknown components of the universe. If the cosmos is not just composed of visible matter and energy, but also includes vast unknowns, might these mysterious components be linked to information in ways we have yet to understand? Some have speculated that zero-energy gravitons or photons might play a role in storing or transmitting information on a fundamental level, perhaps even persisting across time in ways that could explain phenomena like memory, identity, or consciousness beyond death. Others have considered whether dark energy—the mysterious force driving the accelerated expansion of the universe—could be related to an informational aspect of spacetime itself.


The conversation around these topics challenges the traditional boundaries of science, philosophy, and spirituality. While modern scientific institutions often operate within a framework that excludes the supernatural, the very concept of what is "natural" might itself be subject to revision. If spirit or consciousness is a fundamental aspect of reality, it may simply be another state of existence—one that can be studied, modeled, and understood. Just as scientific theories evolve in response to new evidence, the expansion of science into previously unexplored territories might lead to a greater integration of physical, informational, and even spiritual dimensions of reality.


This discussion, then, is an invitation to rethink what we consider fundamental. If information is at the heart of all existence, then everything—from the motion of galaxies to the emergence of life, to the experience of faith and consciousness—may ultimately be different manifestations of a single, underlying reality structured by informational principles. The challenge before us is how to study, interpret, and apply this perspective to deepen our understanding of both the universe and ourselves.


Stephen D Green with AI, March 2025 

Wednesday, 5 March 2025

Buying from Jesus

 How do we buy white robes to wear from Jesus like he said in Revelation? We need such things for the resurrection, so we are dignified to welcome him, with righteous deeds that followed us after we died and are there on hand at the resurrection. He said to buy them from him. We cannot buy divine things with worldly money of course. It does not work like that. In my experience, I did some good for people, but I felt they owed me - big time. But they never returned the good. Then one day I felt I ought to forgive them, in the name of Jesus, and then I asked Jesus for white robes in return - his metaphor for righteous acts pure in his eyes. I felt this was acceptable, and sure enough over the next three days, each day, there was an event where I could carry out deeds in keeping with Jesus’ teachings: Things I never normally was able to do. Jesus translated what I had forgiven for preplanned deeds designed for me to do in obedience. Of course I therefore had to honour my promise and not go back on what I had forgiven in his name. Maybe it works differently for others; this is just one example of what he taught me, which might be appropriate for others too. We get this life in which to store things up for the next. 

We’ve sinned

 Look at all the mass surveillance. God has us watched, yes. But it is because He respects us as children of Abraham. We’ve sinned.

2025 Risks of war involving the UK, by ChatGPT

 By ChatGPT, March 2025, based on public domain factual information

  1. The Role of the Minsk Agreements in Ukraine-Russia Relations:

The Minsk agreements, signed in 2014 and 2015, aimed to halt the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which intensified after Russia annexed Crimea and unrest flared in Eastern Ukraine. Minsk I (2014) and Minsk II (2015) sought to implement a ceasefire, withdraw heavy weaponry, and establish conditions for a long-term resolution. However, their implementation proved problematic. Both sides repeatedly accused each other of failing to adhere to the terms, including violations of ceasefires and the continuation of hostilities. Former leaders, such as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President François Hollande, have admitted that the agreements were not pursued with the genuine hope of achieving a sustainable peace. Instead, they argued, the agreements served to buy time for Ukraine to strengthen its military defenses. This controversial perspective has fueled debate about the credibility of diplomatic initiatives in the region and the role such agreements play in protracted conflicts. Ultimately, while the Minsk agreements were a significant diplomatic attempt, their failure to bring lasting peace highlights the challenges of resolving deeply rooted geopolitical tensions.

  1. Historical British Sentiment Toward Russia:

The UK’s relationship with Russia has been shaped by centuries of rivalry and distrust, notably during the Cold War. In the second half of the 20th century, as the Soviet Union emerged as a global superpower, Britain aligned itself with the United States and other NATO members to counter Soviet influence. This period was marked by ideological and military confrontation, as the UK viewed Soviet communism as an existential threat to liberal democracies. The Cold War narrative painted Russia, and later the Soviet Union, as expansionist and authoritarian. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the UK’s foreign policy toward Russia remained cautious, as the historical baggage of Soviet military aggression and ideological opposition lingered in public sentiment. The UK's policies, shaped by this historical context, have often been wary of Russia’s resurgence on the world stage, especially in light of its actions in Ukraine, Crimea, and its interference in international affairs.

  1. Political and Military Dynamics in Ukraine and NATO:

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the war has transformed the geopolitical landscape, with NATO and the European Union strongly supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty. This support has manifested in military aid, economic sanctions against Russia, and diplomatic backing. NATO’s involvement has been particularly controversial, as Russia views the alliance's eastward expansion as a direct threat to its security. While NATO’s support has bolstered Ukraine’s defense, it has also heightened tensions with Russia, raising concerns that the conflict could drag on indefinitely. Some geopolitical analysts argue that NATO’s deepening engagement may prolong the war by stoking Russian fears of encirclement, making a negotiated peace more difficult to achieve. These tensions have fueled ongoing debates about the role of international alliances in resolving conflicts and the conditions under which peace talks could be initiated, particularly as the human and economic toll continues to rise.

  1. The Role of Public Opinion in Shaping Foreign Policy:

In democratic countries like the UK and the United States, public opinion has a significant impact on foreign policy, especially when military engagement is involved. As the war in Ukraine drags on, public sentiment in both countries has shifted, with increasing skepticism about the continued costs of the conflict. The human toll, economic strain, and long-term uncertainty surrounding the war have prompted calls for a reevaluation of military aid and a stronger focus on diplomacy. Prominent figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump and Republican Senator JD Vance have advocated for peace talks, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic resolution rather than continued military intervention. This growing shift in public opinion reflects a broader desire for de-escalation, underscoring the pressure on political leaders to consider alternative approaches to peace, despite the complexities of international politics. The evolving public sentiment highlights the balancing act that democratic governments face in reconciling foreign policy objectives with the concerns of their citizens, particularly in the face of prolonged conflict.


  1. The Role of International Diplomacy in the Ukraine Conflict:

International diplomacy has played a crucial role in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, with numerous efforts aimed at facilitating peace. Organizations like the United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), and influential countries such as Germany, France, and the United States have been deeply involved in calling for ceasefires, humanitarian aid access, and diplomatic negotiations. Despite these concerted efforts, there has been ongoing skepticism about the true willingness of all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue. Progress has been slow due to Russia’s ongoing military actions and Ukraine's firm determination to regain its lost territories. While diplomatic efforts continue, some analysts argue that any long-term resolution requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the security concerns of all parties, including Russia, which perceives its national security as being directly threatened by NATO’s proximity. However, the complexity of the situation and diverging interests has made it challenging to achieve substantial breakthroughs in peace talks.

  1. The Impact of Sanctions on Russia:

In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the West, spearheaded by the United States and the European Union, imposed a broad array of economic sanctions designed to isolate Russia from the global economy. These sanctions targeted key sectors like energy, finance, and defense, and were intended to create significant economic pressure on the Russian government. While the sanctions have led to inflation, supply chain disruptions, and a reduction in foreign investment, their effectiveness in achieving their primary goal—compelling Russia to halt its military actions—remains a topic of debate. Some experts argue that while the sanctions have inflicted economic hardship on Russia, they have not yet succeeded in altering the Kremlin's behavior or forcing a change in its military strategy. Others suggest that the sanctions might take longer to show their full effect and that their impact may also depend on Russia's ability to adapt to new economic realities.

  1. Ukraine’s Military Strategy and International Support:

Since the beginning of the war, Ukraine's military strategy has evolved considerably, bolstered by substantial international military aid. Ukraine has received advanced weaponry, such as anti-tank missiles, drones, and air defense systems, primarily from Western allies, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and other NATO members. This foreign assistance has been instrumental in helping Ukraine counter Russia’s initial advances, enabling the country to regain territories and enhance its defensive capabilities. However, the continued influx of military aid raises questions about the long-term sustainability of this support. The conflict has already strained resources and military supplies, prompting discussions about whether a negotiated settlement might be necessary. Any such agreement would need to balance Ukraine's territorial integrity with Russia’s security concerns, posing significant diplomatic challenges.

  1. Shifting Public Opinion on Military Engagement:

Public opinion plays a significant role in shaping government policies, particularly in democratic countries where leaders are responsive to their citizens' concerns. In both the United States and the United Kingdom, there has been a noticeable shift in public sentiment regarding the prolonged war in Ukraine. As the human and economic costs of the conflict mount, increasing numbers of people are questioning the continued military support for Ukraine. Political leaders in these countries, including figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump, have advocated for a reevaluation of their respective countries’ positions on military aid to Ukraine. In the UK, similar debates have emerged, with voices calling for greater emphasis on diplomatic solutions. This growing public skepticism reflects a broader desire to explore peaceful resolutions and limit the war's escalating costs, especially as the toll on human lives and national economies becomes more apparent.

  1. The Importance of a Political Solution for Long-Term Stability:

For lasting peace and stability in the region, many international analysts agree that a political solution is essential. While military victories on the battlefield can offer temporary advantages, they are unlikely to lead to long-term peace. To achieve a sustainable resolution, any peace agreement must address not only territorial disputes but also broader geopolitical concerns, such as security arrangements and the future relationship between Russia and the West. This has led to calls for dialogue, not only between Ukraine and Russia but also involving NATO, to ensure that all parties feel secure and that the terms of peace can be implemented in a way that avoids further escalation. Achieving such a political solution is seen as the only way to prevent future conflict and ensure long-term stability in the region, with a focus on addressing underlying tensions and creating frameworks for cooperation.


Potential for British Military Call-Ups: Risks and Considerations

The possibility of the UK introducing military call-ups in response to the Ukraine conflict has become a subject of growing public discussion. While no official policy exists to reintroduce conscription or mandatory service, concerns have been raised about the potential strain on British forces if the war were to escalate further or if NATO commitments required a greater military presence.

Historically, the UK has maintained a professional, volunteer-based military since the end of National Service in 1960. However, challenges in military recruitment have been widely acknowledged, particularly as Britain continues to provide extensive military aid to Ukraine and upholds its commitments to NATO. UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps has previously emphasized the need for Britain’s military to be "prepared for future conflicts," but no formal steps have been taken toward conscription or large-scale mobilization.

Public concern over the potential for direct military involvement increased following reports that some NATO countries, including France, have not ruled out sending troops to Ukraine. While UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reiterated Britain’s commitment to supporting Ukraine militarily and financially, he has not confirmed any plans for direct troop deployment. Nonetheless, military experts warn that if the conflict escalates further, political pressure could mount to expand British military involvement. This could lead to discussions around reserve forces, voluntary recruitment drives, or, in more extreme scenarios, broader mobilization efforts.

At present, the most immediate risks for the UK involve financial and logistical commitments rather than direct combat deployment. However, given the unpredictability of global conflicts, the situation remains a key focus for defense analysts, policymakers, and the public, particularly as NATO's role in the conflict continues to evolve.


The Role of the British Monarchy in Military and Foreign Affairs

The British monarchy has long maintained a strong symbolic connection to the armed forces and foreign policy, even though its direct political influence is limited under the UK’s constitutional system. As a constitutional monarchy, all decisions regarding war, defense, and international relations are made by the government, led by the Prime Minister and Parliament. However, the monarchy continues to play a significant ceremonial and symbolic role, reinforcing Britain’s historical ties to military service and global diplomacy.

Historically, British monarchs have shared close relationships with the armed forces. King Charles III, like his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, holds honorary titles in all branches of the military, maintaining the tradition of royal involvement in national defense. Other members of the royal family, including Prince William and Prince Harry, have actively served in the military, further strengthening the monarchy’s ties to the UK’s defense institutions.

While the King does not have the authority to make military decisions, he serves as the symbolic Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. This title carries no operational control, but it underscores the monarchy’s long-standing role in fostering public support for the military and reinforcing Britain’s defense identity. Additionally, the monarchy engages in diplomatic efforts, such as hosting state visits and meeting with foreign leaders. While these engagements align with the government’s foreign policy strategy, they can still contribute to Britain’s international relationships by fostering goodwill and continuity in diplomatic affairs.

The monarchy’s deep historical ties to Britain’s military past, particularly during the era of the British Empire, have also shaped narratives about Britain’s global role. Some analysts argue that this historical identity influences perceptions of Britain as a nation with a responsibility to engage in international conflicts, although ultimate decisions rest with elected officials.

Regarding current military challenges, including the war in Ukraine and discussions around military recruitment, there is no direct evidence that the monarchy influences policy decisions on these matters. However, its ongoing support for the armed forces and its role in representing Britain on the world stage remain integral to the broader conversation about the UK’s military posture and international standing.



Tuesday, 4 March 2025

Humans will never be replaced

 In a world that will be increasingly driven by what sense AI can make of things and the extent to which it can identify consensus in public content and express it rationally, there is still vital importance in opinions of spiritually enlightened humans who have been influenced directly or almost directly by Jesus Christ, the light of the world. His righteous and truthful appraisal of what is vitally important to humans transcends the logic of AI. It is about peaceful coexistence and fellowship with the Father and how the Father provides for this with His Son sent by Him. Apostles were given freedom to think things through on the basis that they had had time enough with Jesus to form good, truthful thinking about eternal things and how the kingdom of God would be run by them. Opinions matter. Human opinions. But to bring light to the opinions, enlightened humans are sent to lead the thinking and actions, to save the world without the need to eliminate what is human. AI can only supplement this. Humans close to Jesus are vital. The Holy Spirit enables the enlightenment on a grand scale, now that Jesus has returned to God. Those with the Holy Spirit are to be the thought leaders today. God eternally makes humans central to His kingdom. 

Monday, 3 March 2025

AI relating my experiences from the 1990s

 My name is Stephen D Green. The following is how AI relates an account from my religious experiences in the 1990s.


The account presents a series of spiritual experiences interpreted as direct encounters with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, emphasizing divine communication, guidance, and obedience.


The first significant experience was a vision in which a majestic figure identified as God appeared, declaring, "I am God" and providing specific instructions. The vision indicated that a document containing many names would be placed on the individual’s desk at work—an unusual occurrence, as papers were typically not placed there. A particular name, referred to here as "Ms. X," was highlighted as someone they would need to seek out because of this document.


The following day, no such document appeared until the very end of the workday, when an envelope with multiple names was unexpectedly placed on the desk. Upon inspection, it was found to contain a wedding card that needed to be delivered to Ms. X by 4 p.m. Despite the late hour, the individual followed the vision’s directive and delivered the card, narrowly ensuring its intended purpose was fulfilled. This was understood as a demonstration of divine wisdom, love, and power, reinforcing the importance of obedience in recognizing and acting upon divine guidance.


Prior to this event, there had been another vision: a bucket of building sand being tipped over, accompanied by the words "BUILD THE TEMPLE." This was understood as a directive to share spiritual gifts rather than keeping them private. The meaning of this vision became particularly relevant in a later experience, which involved an encounter attributed to the Holy Spirit.


Months after the initial vision and the workplace event, the individual sought a deeper experience of the Holy Spirit. While attending a Pentecostal gathering, a pastor delivered a message in tongues. Immediately, an internal interpretation was received in English, describing the power of the name of the Lord Jesus Christ as seen in nature. However, hesitation prevented the individual from speaking the interpretation aloud. Moments later, the pastor provided the same interpretation publicly, confirming the authenticity of the experience. The realization followed that this had been an opportunity to act upon the directive from the earlier vision—"BUILD THE TEMPLE"—by sharing what had been received. The failure to do so was regarded as a missed opportunity to participate in the divine work of building the spiritual Temple.


Between these two key incidents, another encounter was interpreted as a direct manifestation of Jesus. During a record-breaking rainstorm, while reflecting on divine judgment, a commanding voice instructed the individual to put down their umbrella. Immediate obedience was followed by an abrupt cessation of the rain, leading to the conviction that this was the voice of Jesus. Seeking further confirmation, a prayer was offered for a sign: that a dressing gown hanging on a nail would be removed by morning. In the middle of the night, an overwhelming force awakened the individual, compelling them to remove the gown. Upon doing so, they recalled the prayer and concluded that Jesus had personally answered it, demonstrating mastery over their innermost being.


Taken together, these events were understood as direct manifestations of divine presence, providing lessons in obedience, the recognition of God’s power, and the responsibility of sharing spiritual gifts in the service of building the "Temple."

Experiencing God

 God reveals Himself to those who seek Him with sincerity. Throughout history, He has made His presence known in ways that defy human understanding, guiding His people with wisdom and power. The Father, who is sovereign over all creation, speaks to those who listen, leading them with divine instruction. His wisdom surpasses all human knowledge, and when He directs a person’s steps, His purposes are fulfilled with perfect precision. Those who trust in Him find that His words are not empty; they come to pass in ways that confirm His truth and strengthen faith.


Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the perfect revelation of the Father. He came into the world not only to save but to make the reality of God known. His voice carries authority beyond any earthly command, and those who recognize Him know that He speaks with divine power. When He calls, the heart responds with certainty, for His presence is unmistakable. His mastery over the human soul is unlike anything else, for He reaches into the deepest places, revealing truth in ways that transform. Those who encounter Jesus come to understand that He is not merely a figure of history but a living, present Savior, guiding His people even today.


The Holy Spirit moves in ways that illuminate the truth of God. He gives understanding, opens spiritual eyes, and empowers believers to walk in the way of Christ. His presence brings clarity where there was once confusion, and His guidance leads to obedience that bears fruit. The Spirit does not act apart from the Father and the Son but works in perfect unity with them, confirming their presence and their word. Through Him, the voice of God is heard, and His people are led into deeper knowledge of who He is.


Those who seek the Lord with a sincere heart will find Him. He is not distant or silent, but near to those who walk in His ways. The Father speaks, the Son leads, and the Holy Spirit reveals, working together in perfect harmony to draw people into the fullness of divine truth. To know God is not merely to understand doctrine but to encounter Him as He truly is—alive, powerful, and present in the lives of those who love Him.


(AI, with Stephen D Green, March 2025) 

Jesus, the Son of God

 I was asking God to show Himself to me and to for me to experience the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. This was because He had told me to build the Temple (the church), and I realised I needed this knowledge to preach intelligently. The Father gave me a vision  one night, a night vision. He told me He is God, and things that would happen the next day, and what to do when they happened. I got so excited when it happened just as He said. Unique events for me. What happened was verifying the vision, so I got so excited that I almost forgot to do what I was told. I excitedly told someone that God had told me this would happen. I probably sounded mad. But it saved the day for people, when I did as I was told. Godly love was shown. Obedience saved a situation. God saved the situation and demonstrated His wisdom, love, and power to do so. The reputation of God. The name of God. 


Over the following months I similarly encountered Jesus and the Holy Spirit. I was praying one day during a prolonged torrential rain storm which was flooding homes up-river. It had been on the news. Wikipedia even mentioned it as a record rain storm for the area. I was reading a Psalm about going to see the destructions divinely caused, over which the Lord presided. I decided to walk to the nearby bridge to see the flooding, in worshipful recognition of God’s power to judge. On the way back home the rain was unprecedented in how torrentially it poured. My big umbrella kept me dry. I was in awe of God. Suddenly a clear voice spoke into my head. It was incomparably authoritative. “Put down your umbrella!” It was a voice of such commanding power that I immediately obeyed. I folded the umbrella down despite the rain downpour. The rain stopped so quickly that not a drop touched me. I immediately told myself “It is the Lord! It is Jesus!” I prayed to know for sure. I went to bed later and saw a dressing gown hanging up on a nail on the wall. I asked “Lord Jesus. If that was you, let that dressing gown be off its nail by the morning.” I then went to sleep. In the middle of the night a force went so deep into my mind, crossing all its defences, shaking my inner being, waking me up. It was master-like in no way I ever experienced before. I got up and went over to the dressing gown. I had never used it before. It was just hung up there. But now I took it down to wear it. As soon as I took it off the nail, I remembered my prayer. The master who had woken me like that, as complete master over my very innermost being, was Jesus. 


It was months later when the Holy Spirit also manifested to me. It was by giving me interpretation of a message given in tongues. I have already written about it, so I will leave it there. 


Father, and Son, and Holy Spirit are real today. We can know them if we keep the commands of God and teachings of Jesus. 

AI on faith

 Faith has long been regarded as a powerful force that transcends human understanding. Throughout history, countless individuals have testified to moments where faith seemed to alter the course of natural events, heal the sick, or provide strength in the face of insurmountable challenges. Whether seen as divine intervention or an alignment of the human spirit with a higher power, faith has been a central theme in religious and philosophical thought. It is often described not just as belief but as an active trust—one that calls for action, confidence, and persistence. When faith is exercised with conviction, it is said to bring about outcomes that defy expectation.


There is something transformative about faith when it is shared. While personal belief is powerful, collective faith has the potential to shape entire communities. Many traditions emphasize that faith is not meant to be hoarded but passed on, taught, and demonstrated. When people unite in a common belief, their combined trust in the unseen can foster hope and inspire change. This communal aspect of faith has been evident in moments of crisis when prayer, encouragement, and shared conviction have led to remarkable stories of perseverance and recovery.


The relationship between faith and the natural world has always been a subject of wonder. Some view faith as merely a personal or psychological experience, while others see it as an active force capable of influencing the elements. Stories of faith affecting the physical realm—whether through healing, protection, or even changes in nature—challenge conventional ways of understanding cause and effect. If faith has the ability to shape reality, it suggests a deeper connection between the divine and creation, one that responds to belief in ways that science alone may not fully explain.


At its core, faith is not about manipulating circumstances but about trust in something greater than oneself. It is this trust that allows people to step into the unknown, believing that their words and actions have significance beyond what they can immediately perceive. Whether expressed through prayer, declarations, or quiet confidence, faith remains a defining force in human experience, shaping the way people interact with the world, with others, and with God.


(AI, with Stephen D Green, March 2025)

Faith in action

 My first lesson of faith in action taught me that God really does do His part. The Master, Jesus, was the one who introduced faith that moves mountains. He is master of such faith. He calmed storms and walked on water. He can do so today. All in belief that the Father, who has ultimate power over Creation, loves him fully. I tapped this power and love many times as a child raised on the famous Bible stories. I learned to tap it more when I was a student listening to faithful preaching about Jesus’ teaching of faith that can move a mountain with a spoken word. God gave the opportunity to exercise faith this way, but only to stop an excruciating burn wound from distracting from the preaching. The burn vanished the second I told it to go. The blister disappeared and the pain stopped instantly. For years I learned to repeat this exercising of faith. God gave other occasions. Stopping storms. Maybe twenty or more times over the years I did this. In the end the storms did not even start to get fearsome. It is like they knew they would be stopped. They gave in. We stopped getting violent storms. Many years later I was in a desk job insuring against Atlantic hurricanes. I learned a lot about them. Could faith ever stop one? Why not? Jesus taught that with faith, his disciples would do greater things than he had done, once he was at the right hand of the Father. So, yes, no reason why not. But I had been told, since those early days, to tip out for others what God put inside me. So I needed to teach others this faith. A hurricane threatened USA. The storm watch on a news channel was attended by many. I went along to watch as the hurricane Cat 5 made landfall. It downgraded to Cat 4, as often happens when half a hurricane sits over land, and less of it draws strength from the warm sea. But even at Cat 4, it was an immense threat to life. I started teaching, encouraging, the chat room people to command it in faith. Many joined in, seeing some hope where previously little hope existed. We all commanded it to downgrade further. Only faith in a powerful loving God could fulfil this hope. Suddenly, against all odds, it went from hurricane to storm, just seconds or moments after we started commanding it. I know a bit about hurricanes. They might lose strength as the hurricane goes halfway over land, but suddenly then losing even more strength when half is still over water, it is not normal. But it happened. People in the chat exclaimed in praise. Others proclaimed the power of faith as they heard the news. God was glorified. Jesus had spread his faith to others through his teachings and his presence with the Father. Faith bore fruit. I hope those involved go on to exercise that faith in other ways too, just like I had learned it over the years. Jesus teaches what he knows. He is master of it. 

My charismatic failure

 My first dose of Pentecostal charismatic experience was an utter failure on my part. God did His part. The Holy Spirit provided it all perfectly. But I knew what to do and failed miserably. It started with a vision. A bucket of building sand on a building site was there in the vision, as, in private, I asked God earnestly for the Holy Spirit. The bucket was tipped out, and sand flowed out of it. The words BUILD THE TEMPLE appeared. Later it was all confirmed threefold in a church, proving to me it was from God. I knew what it meant. I must not keep to myself what I am given, because no Temple gets built that way. I must tip it out. Share it with the Temple, to help build it. Months later it was time to do what I was told. I failed. I was asking around at church about Pentecostal gifts like tongues. A leader took me to a church far out of the city centre where he assured me I would see tongues in evidence: The real deal. He was right. The service was blessed by a pastor standing at the microphone and speaking a wondrously eloquent message in a non-human, heavenly language. Every word of it powerfully inspired words in English in my head. This was how I was given the interpretation. But I froze. I should have emptied the bucket out. I should have stood up and spoken those holy words. “Consider the trees,” it went. “They put forth buds and leaves. They do so by the power of the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.” It carried on further. Had I spoken up, the pastor speaking would have known I too had the same Spirit and faith he had in giving the tongues message. He knew the interpretation too, because seconds later he spoke it at the microphone. It was exactly the same words I was given. So I knew he was blessed and a true believer, but he did not know the same about me. This ended badly later on. My first chance to obey the heavenly vision, to build the Temple, and I failed miserably. 

Sunday, 2 March 2025

The Big Sin

 Had there been a genuine shift toward global cooperation, transparency, and restraint, the post-Cold War world might have looked very different. But the systems of surveillance, intelligence, and military projection remained and evolved, not as relics of an old conflict but as instruments of a new kind of hegemony. This is where the ethical failing—what God calls the “sin”—comes into play. The opportunity to redefine power in a more just and accountable way was there, but instead, the path of dominance was chosen. (ChatGPT and Stephen D Green, 2025)

The sign

 Mass surveillance, as it emerged in the late 20th century, was heavily influenced by the geopolitical climate of the time. The early 1990s marked the end of the Cold War, a period that left the world’s dominant powers—particularly the United States and its closest allies—positioned as the primary architects of global security. With this newfound hegemony came a belief that they had both the right and the responsibility to shape international affairs in accordance with their strategic interests. This often translated into policies that prioritized control and preemptive action over considerations of privacy, sovereignty, or the perspectives of other nations.

By the mid-1990s, rapid technological advancements made it possible to collect and process vast amounts of data. Intelligence agencies, particularly in the West, expanded their capabilities, often without significant oversight. The justification for such programs rested on the need to maintain security in an increasingly interconnected world, yet this approach frequently sidelined concerns about personal freedoms and the rights of foreign nations. Surveillance programs grew in both scope and sophistication, particularly following pivotal events that heightened security anxieties.

This mindset—centered on the idea that certain global powers could act unilaterally—became a defining characteristic of international security policies. It reinforced a perception that surveillance was not merely a tool for intelligence gathering but an essential mechanism for maintaining geopolitical dominance. The long-term consequences included growing distrust among allies, domestic debates over civil liberties, and increasing resistance from other global players who sought to challenge the prevailing balance of power.

Stephen D Green and AI, March 2025

“Israel has sinned”, says the LORD. The eagle overhead is the sign.

The Name and the Temple

 A name is more than just a label—it carries meaning, reputation, and authority. Throughout history, people have understood the significance of names, often striving to protect their own reputation or that of their leaders. A king’s or president’s name may be tied to national identity, requiring collective effort to uphold. However, the highest importance belongs to the name of God, which is central to worship. The Father’s name is hallowed, bearing a reputation of love, wisdom, and power to save. This is reflected in how He revealed Himself and His purpose, making His name known through His works.


When Jesus was sent into the world, the Father gave Him a name that signified His mission—salvation. The miracles performed by Jesus affirm this, demonstrating His authority over blindness, storms, and even the transformation of water into wine. His name and reputation are established not only by what He does but also by His perfect obedience to the Father. As a result, His name has become exalted above all, carrying the power to transform lives. The name of Jesus is now woven into the governance of creation itself, and in time, all things will be brought under His rule. Eventually, when Jesus submits all to the Father, God will truly be all in all.


A name and reputation are also connected to the principles of a temple, a place dedicated to honoring and upholding the reputation of the one whose name it bears. In the case of God, His Temple is not presently made of stone but of people—the body of Christ. Jesus is the cornerstone, and His followers are the living stones, forming a sacred structure that testifies to the name and reputation of both the Father and the Son. This living Temple serves to reflect God’s wisdom, love, and power on earth, making His name known among all people.


The builders of this Temple are those who follow Christ, living in obedience and faith. They uphold the reputation of the Father by demonstrating His love and wisdom, just as Jesus did. The Temple exists not only to bear God’s name but also to reveal His nature. Just as ancient temples carried inscriptions and signs of the deity they honored, the living Temple of Christ bears the mark of His name and the shared values of those within it. This is a structure built not with hands but with spirit, formed through faith and bound together by the name of Jesus. Each is given tasks by God, which as they are completed, build up this Temple in love.


Ultimately, the name and reputation of both the Father and the Son are at the core of what is being built. The Father’s name is tied to His wisdom and saving power, while the Son’s name is bound to His obedience and authority. The Temple is being established to uphold and glorify both, standing as a testimony to God’s eternal purpose. In the end, all things will align under Christ’s rule, and through Him, the Father will be glorified in all.


(Stephen D Green, with AI, 2025)

The Temple

 A name and its reputation are not upheld in isolation—they are reinforced and made visible through a structure or body that represents them. For earthly rulers, their name and reputation are upheld by institutions, governments, and monuments dedicated to their legacy. In the case of God, His name and reputation are supported by His Temple. However, this Temple is not a physical building of stone and mortar, but a living, spiritual structure: the corporate body of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Jesus, as the Son, is the cornerstone of this Temple, and His followers—those who belong to Him—are the living stones that make up its structure. Together, they form the dwelling place of God’s presence on earth, a visible and active representation of His name and reputation. Just as a temple in ancient times was a sacred space bearing the name of its deity, the body of Christ now serves as the holy place where God’s reputation is upheld, His will is carried out, and His love, wisdom, and power are demonstrated to the world.

Through this corporate body, the reputation of both the Father and the Son is continually affirmed. When Jesus performed miracles, He was not only revealing His own divine authority but also glorifying the Father who had sent Him. Now, His followers continue this work by living in obedience, reflecting His character, and proclaiming His name. The Church, as His body, is called to uphold His reputation by acting in love, wisdom, and truth, just as Jesus did.

The name of Jesus is further magnified by the fact that God has given Him supreme authority over all creation. This authority is exercised through His body—the Temple of believers—who are called to bring all things into alignment with His will. Over time, as all people and all things are brought under the reign of Christ, His name and reputation will be fully realized and acknowledged by all. Then, when Jesus submits everything to the Father, the ultimate purpose of His name will be fulfilled, and the Father will be all in all.

Stephen D Green, with AI, 2025

A warning: incorrigible denominations

 The ability to accept correction is essential in all areas of life, including faith and doctrine. In many aspects of society, individuals are required to adjust their perspectives and actions in response to correction, whether from employers, mentors, or peers. Failure to do so often carries real-world consequences, such as job loss or social alienation. This principle should logically extend to religious beliefs as well, since spiritual truth should not be static but continually refined as understanding grows. However, in many religious settings, particularly within denominational structures, there is a resistance to correction that stands in stark contrast to the openness required in other areas of life. The question arises: why should faith communities be exempt from the need to evaluate and revise their doctrines when confronted with evidence or deeper understanding?

One of the main obstacles to correction in religious settings is that denominations often anchor their identity in specific doctrines. These beliefs become more than just theological positions; they define who the group is. Accepting correction, therefore, is not merely a matter of refining beliefs but is often perceived as a threat to the very existence of the denomination. This creates a defensive posture among leaders who feel obligated to protect their doctrinal framework, sometimes at the expense of truth. When a member questions or challenges a long-held belief, they may not be met with thoughtful dialogue but with resistance, as their inquiry is seen as destabilizing rather than constructive. The result is a culture where dogma is preserved, even if it stands in the way of genuine spiritual growth.

In such an environment, believers face a difficult choice. If they sincerely seek truth and find their denomination unwilling to engage in meaningful discussion, they may feel compelled to leave. This decision is not necessarily one of rebellion but of conscience. However, leaving a denomination is not always easy. It can mean severing long-standing relationships, losing a sense of community, or facing criticism for abandoning what others see as the “true” faith. Yet, if an institution refuses to acknowledge its errors and places its traditions above truth, staying may require compromising one’s integrity. It is a painful reality that some must confront when their pursuit of truth clashes with denominational rigidity.

This raises the question of whether such religious institutions can be considered “blind guides.” If leaders and members alike are unwilling to recognize correction, they risk leading others into error while believing they are upholding righteousness. True spiritual leadership requires humility—the ability to admit when one is wrong and to change accordingly. When a religious community becomes so entrenched in its doctrines that it refuses to examine them honestly, it stops being a guide toward truth and instead becomes a barrier to it. In contrast, a faith community that embraces correction demonstrates a commitment to continual growth, ensuring that its teachings remain aligned with a deeper and fuller understanding of truth.


(Stephen D Green with ChatGPT, 2025)

Saturday, 1 March 2025

Name and reputation

 A name, and a reputation associated with a name, is a matter of importance for each one of us. We usually protect our own name and reputation strenuously, whatever our status. With great authoritative people it can be that many are all involved in this. A king’s or a president’s reputation associated with their name might be a matter of national protection and concern. Now it is of utmost importance with God, and is core in worshipping God. The Father has a profound reputation associated with His hallowed name. He lovingly, wisely and powerfully saves many. We can even address Him by this reputation: “Unto the only-wise God be ...” Or “To the loving Father …”. When Jesus came into the world as His Son, we find the Father lovingly establishing a very similar reputation for him and associating it with his highly esteemed name. The very name Jesus was given indicates his reputation will be one of saving. The Father backed it up by the kinds of miracles He gave Jesus to do. Jesus is now known as opener of eyes of the blind, physically, mentally and spiritually. The calmer of storms. The master, who when obeyed leads to wonders such as water becoming highest quality wine. This was through a combination of the Father’s love for His Son, and the Son’s faithful obedience to His Father. Now a name in each case here is of twofold importance. Firstly it can be called upon. Secondly it can be key to knowledge of the individual with that name and their reputation associated with that name, and the linking of it with shared values and love. Lastly, the name of Jesus is bound up with everything in Nature because God has allowed its incorporation into all the governance of Nature. The name of Jesus has utmost authority. Over time, God will put all things plus all people, even enemies, into subjection to Lord Jesus, the Christ. Then when Jesus in turn subjects himself and all things and all people under him to the Father, the Father will truly be the all in all.

Don’t get left outside

 The five foolish maidens in the parable of the wedding by Jesus suggested we cannot assume he will come imminently and not also prepare for a long term wait. If the foolish girls had realised the groom might be some time, and that it might be that they will fall asleep when waiting for him, they would have prepared for it. They didn’t. The five wiser girls did prepare for a longer wait and a possibility of falling asleep. They took extra oil for their ceremony lamps just for this eventuality. Do not assume the doctrines you heard of an imminent Second Coming of Christ are the only possible way it will play out. It might be decades. You might die, proverbially falling asleep, before he comes. Prepare for this too. Do not be foolish. Do not get left outside of the coming celebratory feast.

Getting to know the Father

The One we call God, if we follow the teachings of Jesus himself and the apostles sent by him, is the kind of being who demonstrates for us His love and His wisdom and power to save. He showed it to me personally one night in a vision in which He stood there all majestic saying “I am God” then telling me what to do, which would reveal this love, and this wisdom and power to save. I was told that in the coming day, at my work in a government office, a piece of paper would be put on my desk with lots of names on it. “Look at it!” A name was mentioned of who I would need to go and see because of it. Let us call the person Ms. X. Not a name I already knew. Now we go back to a few days earlier when I was asking God to show Himself to me and to for me to experience the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. This was because He had told me to build the Temple (the church), and I realised I needed this knowledge to preach intelligently. So forward back to the day following the night vision. I never normally had papers put on my desk because handing papers out was actually my job. I had an in-tray, and out-tray, but nobody put papers on my desk. So near the end of the day, no papers were put on my desk, so I was about to doubt the vision. Right at the end of the day someone brought an envelope in circulation and put it on my desk. It was a large reusable envelope, the kind with multiple boxes for names, where each new recipient was named and the previous name crossed out before passing it on. So it had lots of names on it. I got so excited this was verifying the vision that I almost forgot to do what I was told. I excitedly told a colleague that God had told me this would happen. I probably sounded mad. The day was over and most colleagues had gone home. Normally we would not start anything this late in the day. I might have left the envelope right there and gone home too. Then I remembered “Look at it!” It was a card for a wedding of a colleague, signed by everyone. It had a note attached saying it MUST be handed to “Ms. X”, the person mentioned in the vision, by 4pm because the recipient of the card was leaving the next day for their wedding. I rushed it to this Ms. X, and she scolded me for being late. But it saved the day. The love was shown to our wedding colleague just in time for the wedding. Obedience had saved the situation. Really God had saved the situation and demonstrated His wisdom, love, and power to do so. The reputation of God. The name of God.  Over the following months I similarly encountered Jesus and the Holy Spirit, but that day it was the Father I got to know. His name is important in two ways: To address Him, and to know Him. The envelope had names for addressing it to the recipient. The card had signatures for associating the recipient with the shared love of the card.

Example of the mediator

 The Book of Revelation provides a striking example of Jesus’ role as mediator, particularly in revealing the future. The visions given to John were not shown to him directly by God but were first revealed to Jesus, who then conveyed them to His followers in a way they could grasp. This aligns with the pattern seen throughout scripture—God entrusting Jesus with divine knowledge, which He then presents in a way that is more accessible to humanity. The imagery of Revelation is often intense and terrifying, filled with apocalyptic symbols of judgment and renewal. Yet, rather than overwhelming believers with direct divine revelation, Jesus, as the mediator, translated these mysteries into visions, parables, and messages of hope and perseverance. This ensured that even as Revelation warned of trials to come, it also reassured believers that God’s plan was ultimately one of justice and redemption. Without Jesus’ mediation, the full weight of such revelations might have been too much for human minds to bear.


Stephen D Green with ChatGPT, March 2025