Archive for June, 2008

LCG, Jews, Protestants, Etc. to Celebrate Pentecost

Saturday, June 7th, 2008

Jesus taught, “narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:14),. Pentecost pictures that only a few will find the way in this age–but implies that others will later.

Striaght Path in Tobago
A “straight and narrow way” in Tobago

COGwriter

Tonight beginning after sunset, until tomorrow at sunset is the Holy Day known as Pentecost.  1,977 years ago, the disciples of Jesus were meeting together to observe this day (Acts 2).  On that day the Holy Spirit was given and the New Testament Church began.

Of course, since it was also originally observed by Jews and other Israelites, it would make sense that the early Christians kept it (as they kept Passover and other such days).

Observant Jews still keep it as the following news article shows (though they call it Shavuot):

The long lost significance of Shavuot (Shavuos)

Jewish Community Voice, NJ – Jun 4, 2008

However you pronounce it, Shavuot has been around for a long, long time, and it seems that many Jews tend to overlook its timeless significance. In order to glean some of this festival’s original meaning, imagine popping something into the oven and never being able to look at it until the timer goes off. Is that how you’d want to make your mychel, your “oneof a-kind dish?” Of course not! You’d want to check on it at least once (and in most cases several times) in order to see that it’s coming out as you’d hoped and to do this or that to it, to “potchke” around with it.

Well, anyway, on one level, that’s sort of how Shavuot functioned in the ancient Jewish calendar of festivals. Seven weeks and a day after the ceremonial Omer sacrifice was made on the second day of Pesach- originally a planting festival- Shavuot would auspiciously mark the harvesting of one of the season’s first crops, typically barley, or perhaps some other kind of grain indigenous to Israel. This initial harvest would give an early indication as to how all the crops were faring and, accordingly, if the Almighty was favoring the people that year with a bounteous harvest. That’s the agricultural reason behind why the Omer period in its entirety was traditionally marked with solemnity, because no one wanted to inadvertently anger G-d before the crops were known to be growing properly.

Being as how most of us are so far removed from the annual agricultural cycle and how we often take for granted how dependent we all still are on G-d’s graciousness when it comes to basic needs such as health and sustenance, it’s easy to grasp how the profound significance of Shavuot might be lost on increasingly urbanized Jewish societies.

But what then of the spiritual side of Shavuot? What about its historical linkage to the receiving of the Commandments at Mt. Sinai? After all, no stream of Judaism can downplay the centrality of Torah to Jewish life in every new generation, defining Shavuot as indeed one of the most significant holy days of the year!                                                                                            http://wwwjewishvoicesnj..org/news/2008/0604/religion/

Many Jews believe that the ten commandments were given on Pentecost.

Additionally, some Protestants do observe Pentecost as well, as the following news article shows:

Christians prepare to celebrate the church’s birth

While not as prominent as Christmas or Easter, Pentecost is among the faith’s most significant holidays and the focus of global prayer.
Los Angeles Times May 26, 2007
Sunday is Pentecost, the most important day in the Christian calendar after Easter and Christmas.

Unlike those two well-known holidays, Pentecost — commemorating the arrival of the Holy Spirit — is not widely observed, even by many Christians…

Still, for hundreds of millions of believers around the world, Pentecost will be celebrated with praise and worship…
To understand Christianity, scholars say, one must understand Pentecost because it provided the connection between God and humankind after the ascension of Jesus Christ.

Christian authors Norman Shawchuck and Rueben P. Job describe the connection in “A Guide to Prayer for All Who Seek God”: “God in Christ became incarnate in ordinary disciples. The faithful continue to receive this gift of God-dwelling-within to provide direction, courage, comfort, hope, companionship and peace.”…

MacConnell, founder of the Spirituality Center on the campus of Mount St. Mary’s College in Los Angeles, says she is grateful for Pentecost…

Pentecost emboldened ordinary people to go out and take risks and give their lives for their faith, she said.

http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/california/la-me-beliefs26may26,1,5598510.story?coll=la-headlines-pe-california

Catholics also keep it, though they were about a month early this year (see Pentecost is Not Supposed to be in May for 2008).

The Living Church of God believes that the New Testament church began on Pentecost in 31 A.D. and that its observance in the Book of Acts shows that the early disciples clearly did believe that they were to continue to observe practices (Sabbaths, Holy Days, etc.) that the Jews did.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Pentecost: Is it more than Acts 2? Many “Christians” somewhat observe Pentecost. Do they know what it means? It is also called the Feast of Harvest, the Feast of Weeks, and the day of firstfruits.
Pentecost Quiz This is a Pentecost quiz based upon the Old and New Testaments in the Bible.
The History of Early Christianity
Are you aware that what most people believe is not what truly happened to the true Christian church? Do you know where the early church was based? Do you know what were the doctrines of the early church? Is your faith really based upon the truth or compromise?
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible?
This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.
The Ten Commandments in Hebrew This is a photo of a Hebrew document from the 2nd century, B.C.
Were the Ten Commandments in Effect Before Mount Sinai? Some have said not. This article provides biblical quotes to answer this important question.
Job and the Ten Commandments Was Job written prior to Mount Sinai? Did Job know about the ten commandments? This article provides biblical answers to those questions.
What Did Jesus Teach About the Ten Commandments? This article quotes what Jesus actually said about them (His words are in red).
Were the Ten Commandments Nailed to the Cross? Some have said so. This article provides some biblical quotes to answer this important question.
What Did Paul Actually Teach About the Ten Commandments? Many say Paul taught against the ten commandments. Is this true? This article quotes Paul with his words in green.
Are the Ten Commandment Still in Effect? This article quotes the ten commandments and combines some of the previous articles into one article about the ten commandments. The commandments are shown at Mount Sinai, before Mount Sinai, in the teachings of Jesus, after the crucifixion, and in the teachings of Paul. It addresses the most common “traditions of men” regarding them as well.
Were the Pharisees Condemned for Keeping the Law or Reasoning Around it? Many believe that the Pharisees were condemned for keeping the law, but what does your Bible say? If they were not condemned for that, what were they condemned for?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?
Was the Commandment to Love the Only Command? Some have stated that John’s writings teach this, but is that what the Bible really says?
The Ten Commandments and the Early Church Did Jesus and the Early Church keep the ten commandments? What order were they in? Here are quotes from the Bible and early writings.

UCG Reports On Its Council Meeting

Friday, June 6th, 2008


The Main Street of Ancient Laodicea (Taken 5/12/08)

COGwriter

The June 2008 edition of United News is now available.  The following is mainly from its lead article (and some related articles in the same issue) (bolding mine):

The General Conference of Elders repealed its 2007 approval of the move of the home office to Texas and selected Paul Kieffer (international) and Aaron Dean, Darris McNeely and Robin Webber to the Council of Elders.

The new Strategic Plan, Operation Plan and budget were all approved, and one of five proposed amendments was approved…

After the balloting, Mr. Dick gave the keynote address…

Mr. Dick mentioned the problem identified early in United’s history, “We have not always treated one another in a godly manner.” He commented on some of United’s successes, including creating appeals processes, the peaceful transitions of power in UCG offices, teen summer camp program, the long-range planning for retiree care and the relations with those of other churches

Mr. Lovelady listed the following areas of emphasis: Conservative budgeting, strategic planning, managerial reporting and human resources and information services.

He pointed out that even after the purchase of the land in Texas, we still have more than the required 10 weeks of income in reserve. Mr. Lovelady also gave a handout of the May 9 cash flow report and listed the salary ranges for U.S. Church employees…

Mr. Franks also gave the following statistics: There has been a 1.5 percent increase in U.S. church attendance for the year (about 200 more people). Average attendance is 11,430. High attendance was 13,374 for the First Day of Unleavened Bread. There’s been a decrease of two pastors (89 to 87), and the number will likely drop to 85 soon because of retirements. At the high, United had 125 pastors.

Mr. Franks also reported on education programs such as Ambassador Bible Center, which is expanding to a nine-month program and will be featured in a video in the next few weeks…Mr. Franks also discussed the United Youth Corps and the ministerial development programs.

Mr. Franks concluded that we are seeing real growth, even if not large, and that we face an aging ministry.

Our goal is maximum impact/maximum exposure, Mr. Salyer said, and that can only be achieved with optimism and zeal…

May 19 elders and wives were able to attend a number of workshops based on the theme of going on to perfection. All participants and home office staff members were invited to a lively, interactive presentation on “What Strategic Planning Is All About” by Michael Wilkinson of Leadership Strategies, the company that facilitated the Council in developing the new Strategic Plan.

Other workshops were “The Spiritually Mature Congregation,” “Pitfalls to Godly Wisdom,” “Ministerial Calling—Maturing Relationships,” “Planning for Loss,” “Computers: The Basics and Beyond” and “Elder’s Wives Workshop.”…

The resolution to rescind the 2007 GCE vote to relocate the home office to Texas was approved with 187 yes and 175 no…

At the Council meeting May 22, Chairman Robert Dick recognized and thanked departing Council members Leon Walker, Jim Franks and Larry Salyer.

As I reported yesterday (LCG Publishes Financial Statements), as well as previously (UCG Reports on Its COE Meeting), UCG’s emphasis has always tended to be more inward and less on the outward focus of proclaiming the gospel.  And notice that the bolded comments suggest that its leadership continues, to a great degree, with that emphasis.

However, UCG did in another article attempt to discuss what it should do next, the following is from an article titled Council Discusses “Where Do We Go From Here?“:

“This announcement is to update you regarding the proposed home office relocation to Texas. As you know, a resolution to rescind last year’s ballot approving the move was placed on this year’s agenda. This resolution passed by 187 in favor and 175 opposed. It is clear that the two ballots on the relocation of the home office demonstrate that we are not united on this issue.

“So how do we proceed now?

“All of us who serve on the Council of Elders and in administration want you to know that we remain dedicated to our primary purposes of preaching the gospel and preparing a people. We must not allow our differences over the relocation issue to undermine our commitment to do the work that God has called us to do. All of us want the facilities which will best serve our needs.

“The initial reason for proposing the move was to address the needs of the Church, both short term and long term. The administration has the task of bringing to the Council recommendations on how we should now proceed. We will keep you informed of decisions and progress on this important aspect of God’s work.

“Thank you for your continued prayers and faithful support.”

Resolution to Move Forward

This announcement, read in UCG congregations May 24, was the culmination of a discussion of “where do we go from here?” after the GCE reversal of the decision on relocation to Texas. The Council also asked President Clyde Kilough to present a resolution as to how he would proceed from here.

The following resolution was approved May 22 by 11 in favor (Richard Thompson was not present due to teaching an Ambassador Bible Center class).

“Whereas, in light of the passage of the resolution to rescind the 2007 relocation decision, the United Church of God must yet address the strategic issues and questions that led to the 2007 proposal,

“Therefore, it is hereby resolved that the President bring recommendations for determining how to proceed from this point in addressing these issues and questions and,

“It is further resolved that this report will be presented to the Council of Elders at the August 2008 meeting for Council review and approval.”

Masterful Meetings Workshop

Following the annual General Conference of Elders meetings, the Council members and the U.S. regional pastors met on May 20 for an all-day workshop on meeting facilitation with Michael Wilkinson of Leadership Strategies.

During the Council meetings May 21 and 22, Paul Kieffer, Darris McNeely and Robin Webber were in attendance, having been selected by the GCE to serve on the Council beginning July 1, 2008.

So UCG’s plan is to have more meetings, while reporting that it has meetings on strategic planning and how to have meetings.

Of course, if UCG had not rejected biblical Philadelphia-era governance (such as what the following article discusses Herbert W. Armstrong and Roderick C. Meredith on Church Government) it would not have the problems that it does.

Instead, UCG apparently will spend more money for more meetings to try to figure out what to do about its own voting practices (see also Should a Christian Vote?)–but since it figures it has enough money for that, it seems content.

This is basically what happens when vast amounts of money is accumulated for purposes other than proclaiming the gospel–it somehow gets spent on something else (for how it spent its money last year, please see LCG Publishes Financial Statements which compares UCG’s and LCG’s spending priorities).

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

The Laodicean Church Era was predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. The Laodiceans are basically non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG.
Differences between the Living Church of God and United Church of God This article provides quotes information from the two largest groups which had their origins in WCG as well as commentary.
Herbert W. Armstrong and Roderick C. Meredith on Church Government Which form of governance would one expect to have in the Philadelphia remnant? The people decide and/or committee forms, odd dictatorships, or the same type that the Philadelphia era itself had?
What is a True Philadelphian? Many claim to be part of the Philadelphia era of the Church, but is claiming enough? This article has biblical and historical evidence about who really are the Philadelphians.
Are the Laodiceans the Modern Sadducees and Pharisees? Discusses similarities of the Sadducees and Pharisees to various COGs in this end-time.
Should the Church Still Try to Place its Top Priority on Proclaiming the Gospel or Did Herbert W. Armstrong Change that Priority for the Work? Some say the Church should mainly feed the flock now as that is what Herbert W. Armstrong reportedly said. Is that what he said? Is that what the Bible says? What did Paul and Herbert W. Armstrong expect from evangelists?

Pentecost is Sunday, June 8, 2008

Thursday, June 5th, 2008

Jesus taught, “narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:14),. Pentecost pictures that only a few will find the way in this age–but implies that others will later.

Striaght Path in Tobago
A “straight and narrow way” in Tobago

COGwriter

After Christ’s death, the original apostles met and observed Pentecost (Acts 2) and the Holy Spirit was given to them. That is considered by almost all Christian-professing groups to be the beginning of the Christian Church.

This year, Pentecost will be Sunday, June 8, 2008.

What many have not considered is that if the disciples of Jesus did not think that they should still be observing this so-called Jewish holiday, then they would not have been present together for the Holy Spirit to come.

This is a very significant point. Notice what the Bible teaches:

When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place (Acts 2:1).

Notice that the emphasis is on the fact that the Day of Pentecost had fully come. The Bible is making it clear that the events that follow were directly related to the fact that the Day of Pentecost had fully come. And, it happened to the disciples because they were all observing it together.

The Apostle Paul continued to keep Pentecost some time after the Pentecost mentioned in the second chapter of the Book of Acts. Notice what he wrote, about 56 A.D.:

For I do not wish to see you now on the way; but I hope to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits. But I will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost (1 Corinthians 16:8).

This shows that Paul knew when Pentecost was, that he felt that the Corinthians must know when Pentecost was, and that the Ephesians would have known when Pentecost was. Thus, it apparently was being observed by Paul and the Gentiles in Ephesus and Corinth.

The New Testament does discuss some concepts associated with firstfruits, which we in the Living Church of God believe help explain the meaning of this Holy Day.

Paul wrote the following:

Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit (Rom 8:23).

Recall that it was the Holy Spirit that was first given on the Day of Pentecost. And that was a type of the firstfruits of the Spirit.

Who are the firstfruits?

These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb (Revelation 14:4-5).

“Firstfruits” mean that only a few will make it in this age–but they also imply that there will be a greater harvest–a time where all who never had an opportunity for salvation will later have an opportunity (for biblical references, please read Universal Offer of Salvation: There Are Hundreds of Verses in the Bible Supporting the Doctrine of True Apocatastasis).

The Day of Pentecost was kept, even by heretical “Christians” in the 2nd and 3rd centuries.

The ancient Catholic writer Irenaeus knew that Pentecost in the Book of Acts was about firstfruits, as he wrote (circa 180):

This Spirit did David ask for the human race, saying, “And stablish me with Thine all-governing Spirit;” who also, as Luke says, descended at the day of Pentecost upon the disciples after the Lord’s ascension, having power to admit all nations to the entrance of life, and to the opening of the new covenant; from whence also, with one accord in all languages, they uttered praise to God, the Spirit bringing distant tribes to unity, and offering to the Father the first-fruits of all nations (Irenaeus. Adversus haereses, Book III, Chapter 17, Verse 2. Excerpted from Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 1. Edited by Alexander Roberts & James Donaldson. American Edition, 1885. Online Edition Copyright © 2004 by K. Knight).

He also realized that it was to be kept on a Sunday:

This [custom], of not bending the knee upon Sunday…took its rise from apostolic times, as the blessed Irenæus, the martyr and bishop of Lyons, declares in his treatise On Pascha, in which he makes mention of Pentecost also; (Irenaeus. Fragments of Irenaeus, 7).

The Catholic Encyclopedia states this about Pentecost:

Pentecost…The term, adopted from the Greek-speaking Jews (Tob. 2:1; II Mac. 12:32; Josephus, “Ant.”, III, x, 6; etc.) alludes to the fact that the feast, known in the Old Testament as “the feast of harvest of the firstfruits” (Exodus 23:16), “the feast of weeks” (Exodus 24:22; Deuteronomy 16:10: II Paralipomenon 8:13), the “day of firstfruits” (Numbers 28:26), and called by later Jews ‘asereth or ‘asartha (solemn assembly, and probably “closing festival”, Pentecost being the closing festival of the harvest and of the Paschal season) (Souvay C.L. Transcribed by Mark E. Maier. Pentecost (Jewish Feast) The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume XI. Copyright © 1911 by Robert Appleton Company. Online Edition Copyright © 2003 by Kevin Knight. Nihil Obstat, February 1, 1911. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

Pentecost (Whitsunday) A feast of the universal Church which commemorates the Descent of the Holy Ghost upon the Apostles, fifty days after the Resurrection of Christ, on the ancient Jewish festival called the “feast of weeks” or Pentecost (Exodus 34:22; Deuteronomy 16:10). Whitsunday is so called from the white garments which were worn by those who were baptised during the vigil; Pentecost (“Pfingsten” in German), is the Greek for “the fiftieth”…

Whitsunday, as a Christian feast, dates back to the first century…That Whitsunday belongs to the Apostolic times is stated in the seventh of the (interpolated) fragments attributed to St. Irenæus. In Tertullian (De bapt., xix) the festival appears as already well established (Holweck F.G. Transcribed by Wm Stuart French, Jr. Pentecost (Whitsunday). The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume XV. Copyright © 1912 by Robert Appleton Company. Online Edition Copyright © 2003 by Kevin Knight. Nihil Obstat, October 1, 1912. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

Tertullian in the late second century/early third century wrote:

Pentecost is a most joyous space for conferring baptisms; wherein, too, the resurrection of the Lord was repeatedly proved among the disciples, and the hope of the advent of the Lord indirectly pointed to, in that, at that time, when He had been received back into the heavens, the angels told the apostles that “He would so come, as He had withal ascended into the heavens;” at Pentecost, of course. But, moreover, when Jeremiah says, “And I will gather them together from the extremities of the land in the feast-day,” he signifies the day of the Passover and of Pentecost, which is properly a “feast-day” (Tertullian. On Baptism, Chapter 19. Translated by the S. Thelwall. Excerpted from Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 3. Edited by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. American Edition, 1885. Online Edition Copyright © 2004 by K. Knight).

In the early third century, the Catholic theologian Origen listed the following as being celebrated:

If it be objected to us on this subject that we ourselves are accustomed to observe certain days, as for example the Lord’s day, the Preparation, the Passover, or Pentecost…(Origen. Contra Celsus, Book VIII, Chapter XXII. Excerpted from Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 4. Edited by Alexander Roberts & James Donaldson. American Edition, 1885. Online Edition Copyright © 2005 by K. Knight).

Although it was not called Whitsunday then (and should not be now), it is documented that Christians in the first, second, and third centuries celebrated the Feast of Pentecost.

To some degree, the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, and Protestant churches all celebrate Passover (though most refer to it as Easter and consider it a resurrection holiday) and Pentecost, which were originally Holy Days that the children of Israel observed (and which were still observed by the early true Christian church). But they do seem to feel that it is a continuation of the Holy Days in Leviticus 23, they seem to act like it has nothing to do with them (other than the date).

Although he does not tie the following statement into a discussion of Pentecost, notice what Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (who is now Pope Benedict XVI) wrote:

Man can become God, not by making himself God, but by allowing himself to be made ‘Son’.

Since Jesus is the first of the firstfruits, and the Day of Pentecost shows that we are also to become firstfruits, the observance of the biblical Pentecost helps picture that God the Father is calling true Christians to truly be His sons. We are to be in the family of God (this is documented in more detail in the article What is the Meaning of Life? and Deification: Did the Early Church Teach That Christians Would Become God?).

Pentecost pictures that some few are being called now, but also supports the plan of God that teaches that all ultimately will be offered an opportunity for salvation.

My son Michael long ago developed a Pentecost Quiz to help teach about this Holy Day, that some may wish to check out.

To learn even more about Pentecost and God’s Plan through His Holy Days, please consider reading the following:

Pentecost: Is it more than Acts 2? Many “Christians” somewhat observe Pentecost. Do they know what it means? It is also called the Feast of Harvest, the Feast of Weeks, and the day of firstfruits.
Pentecost Quiz This is a Pentecost quiz based upon the Old and New Testaments in the Bible.Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.
Universal Offer of Salvation: There Are Hundreds of Verses in the Bible Supporting the Doctrine of True Apocatastasis Do you believe what the Bible actually teaches on this? Will all good things be restored? Does God’s plan of salvation take rebellion and spiritual blindness into account? Is there eternal torment?
Hope of Salvation: How the Living Church of God differ from most Protestants How the Living Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background.

LCG Publishes Financial Statements

Thursday, June 5th, 2008


My Wife Joyce Posing at the Current TW Television Studio 01/08

COGwriter

The Living Church News arrived last night and contained the audited financial statements for the Living Church of God.

The statements show that LCG’s income was up 6.9% in 2007.

As many have asked me about how LCG differs from UCG, a comparison of how they spend their income, in my view, helps answer a lot of questions.

Brief Financial Comparison of US Income (Both Based on Audited Statements)

For its fiscal year ending 6/30/06 UCG grossed $21,907,466. It spent 4,334,081 (19.8%) for ‘public proclamation’; it spent 3,994,978 for managing its meetings and ‘home office’ (18.2%); and 12,507,427 (57.1%) for the field ministry/local churches/FOT/International support, and increased reserves by 1,070,980. For its fiscal year ending 12/31/07 LCG grossed 11,887,020 and spent 5,446,269 on public proclamation, 823,910 on HQ administration, 5,452,938 to ‘feed the flock’ and increased reserves by 163,903.

If you gave $100.00 to the United Church of God or the Living Church of God, here is where your money went:

.......................................United Church of God....Living Church of God
1st Commission to Proclaim the Gospel to the World....$19.78........$45.82
2nd Commission to Feed the Flock (and Field Ministry)..57.09.........45.87
Headquarters/Home Office...............................18.24..........6.92
Change in Reserves......................................4.89..........1.39
Total................................................$100.00.......$100.00

LCG announced that the surplus was used for a down payment for a new television studio needed to comply with new federal television requirements that go into effect in 2009.

I went with LCG because of Gospel and governance. It is interesting that UCG spent almost 3 times as high a percentage on governance than LCG does (and almost 5 times as much in actual cash, UCG spent $3,994,978 vs. LCG’s 823,910).

Which form of governance is more cost-effective? Which form places the higher priority on proclaiming the Gospel?

With half the income, LCG spends more in actual cash than UCG does to proclaim the Gospel. LCG also produces nearly twice the number of magazines (Tomorrow’s World vs. Good News) on a per member basis than UCG does. “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

Some articles of related interest may include:

There are Many COGs: Why Support the Living Church of God? This is an article for those who wish to easily sort out the different COGs. It really should be a MUST READ for current and former WCG members or any interested in supporting the faithful church. It also explains a lot of what the COGs are all about.
Differences between the Living Church of God and United Church of God This article provides quotes information from the two largest groups which had their origins in WCG as well as commentary.
Should the Church Still Try to Place its Top Priority on Proclaiming the Gospel or Did Herbert W. Armstrong Change that Priority for the Work? Some say the Church should mainly feed the flock now as that is what Herbert W. Armstrong reportedly said. Is that what he said? Is that what the Bible says? What did Paul and Herbert W. Armstrong expect from evangelists?
The Philadelphia Church Era was predominant circa 1933 A.D. to 1986 A.D. The old Radio Church of God and old Worldwide Church of God, now basically the Living Church of God.

Kenya Celebrates Obama

Wednesday, June 4th, 2008


Barack Obama, A Prophesied Son of Kenya?

COGwriter

The following news item was of interest:

Africans celebrate victory of ‘half-Kenyan’ Obama

CNN – June 4, 2008

Kenyans have long watched the U.S. presidential election with special interest and, in many cases, a special sense of pride.

Barak Obama is the son of a black man from Kenya and a white woman from Kansas.

“I’m excited … because he’s a Kenyan. He’s a half Kenyan,” a smiling woman said in a Nairobi neighborhood…

Obama is popular across many parts of the country, especially in western Kenya where many of his relatives live.

“I want a black man to rule America so that you can see the changes that Obama promised the people … to see the change,” one young man said.

“Obama is a (good) man,” said an older man with gray hair, carrying twisted wrought iron on his shoulder. “He’s fit to lead the country.”

In summer 2006 thousands of Kenyans lined the streets of Kisumu, giving Obama a hero’s welcome on his visit to his father’s home. Obama’s father died in a car accident in Nairobi in 1982. http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/06/04/obama.kenya/

Of course, there is a Kenyan prophecy about a “son of Kenya” leading to the downfall of the United States.

(For more information, please refer to the news item Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States).

UCG’s Joel Meeker Apologizes

Wednesday, June 4th, 2008


The Main Street of Laodicea (Taken 5/12/08)

COGwriter

This morning I went to see if the June 2008 edition of United News was online yet to see if it discussed anything about the problems that came up in UCG’s latest council meetings, but it was not available yet.

However, Gavin Rumney had the following at his site this morning:

From Joel Meeker, Milford OH

I must apologize for my EF post of Wednesday last week. In my message I put the reputation of the organization before the honor of God, when I know that God owns the world and “those who dwell therein” as David said in Psalm 24. I allowed my feelings and communication to be harsh, when in reality I do have confidence that He will “complete a good work” in us as Paul said to the Philippians. His honor is always more important than our organizational concerns of the moment, and I trust He will accomplish what we cannot seem to do ourselves.

I want to apologize to the elders who submitted their ballots in all honesty, knowing that I don’t have insight into the prayer, fasting, and sincerity with which you fulfilled your privilege at the GCE.

I want to apologize for posting a negative judgment of “another man’s servant.” I am reminded in the cool of the day that God tells us not to do so. He reserves the right to judge His servants according to His perfect justice and in His time.

Joel Meeker was once part of UCG’s 12-man governing Council. In that earlier post Joel Meeker (see UCG Having More Dissent) railed against UCG’s governance and took veiled shots against Aaron Dean (who won re-election to that Council, see UCG Reports on Its COE Meeting).

Although he mentions prayer, etc., he took shots at that in his earlier post (see UCG Having More Dissent). But although he, as a UCG supporter, never should have posted what he did, he at least finally apologized for it.

However, UCG still has to figure out what to do about its decision to purchase property and its later decision not to move its main offices there (see also UCG Keeps Aaron Dean on Council and Votes to Rescind Texas Move)–and see how the latest Council votes will affect itself.

Articles of possibly related interest may include:

The Laodicean Church Era was predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. Non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG.
Differences between the Living Church of God and United Church of God This article provides quotes information from the two largest groups which had their origins in WCG as well as commentary.
Herbert W. Armstrong and Roderick C. Meredith on Church Government Which form of governance would one expect to have in the Philadelphia remnant? The people decide and/or committee forms, odd dictatorships, or the same type that the Philadelphia era itself had?
What is a True Philadelphian? Many claim to be part of the Philadelphia era of the Church, but is claiming enough? This article has biblical and historical evidence about who really are the Philadelphians.
Are the Laodiceans the Modern Sadducees and Pharisees? Discusses similarities of the Sadducees and Pharisees to various COGs in this end-time.

MRSA: From Pigs to Your Neighbors

Tuesday, June 3rd, 2008


Now also a source of MRSA?

COGwriter

The following news item today was of interest:

Fears grow that MRSA variant has entered food chain

The Independent, UK – June 3, 2008

British people have been infected for the first time by an animal variant of MRSA, the hospital superbug that infects more than 4,000 patients a year.

Scientists revealed yesterday that three patients in separate hospitals were infected with the ST398 strain, which is found in factory-farmed pigs in the Netherlands. None of the humans had a close association with farm animals, raising the possibility that the superbug has entered the food chain…

MRSA has been found in pigs in the Netherlands, Denmark, Belgium and Germany and in other farm animals such as chickens and cattle. The strain – which has caused skin infections and rare heart and bone problems in humans – is believed to have spread among pigs that were fed antibiotics to spur growth and protect them from disease. A survey by the Dutch authorities in 2006 found traces of the bug in 20 per cent of pork products, 21 per cent of chicken meat and 3 per cent of beef.

No cases have been found in UK livestock but the Soil Association called for Britain to start testing meat because two-thirds of Britain’s pork is imported from Holland. Professor Richard James, of the Centre for Healthcare Associated Infections at Nottingham University, backed the call. “It is a concern. We need people testing pork to see if it’s there,” he said.

The Food Standards Agency said that the bug should be eradicated by good hygiene and urged people to wash their hands and surfaces after handling meat.

All three patients, who were being treated in at least two different Scottish hospitals, recovered. Confirming the cases, Dr Giles Edwards, director of the Scottish MRSA Reference Laboratory, said: “A lot of the patients who got this infection in Holland and Canada have been people who work with animals, such as farmers and vets. But none of the three individuals in Scotland have been in contact with animals, not that we could find.”

The Soil Association called on the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to publish interim results of its testing for MRSA in pigs. “We suspect that MRSA has now been found in British pigs,” said the policy adviser, Richard Young.

“ST398 is no more serious than existing strains of MRSA, but it is resistant to different antibiotics, and where it is present it will make it harder for doctors to select an effective drug quickly. In some cases, that could be the difference between life and death.”

The Food Standards Agency said it did “not see serious food safety issues”. It advised cooks to wash their hands thoroughly; to cook and chill food properly; and avoid cross-contamination. http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-wellbeing/health-news/fears-grow-that-mrsa-variant-has-entered-food-chain-838880.html

According to Mayo Clinic:

MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. It’s a strain of staph that’s resistant to the broad-spectrum antibiotics commonly used to treat it. MRSA can be fatal.

I should also add that this is not just a European problem as I read yesterday that some foods in the USA food supply also apparently have MRSA. Which means some of your neighbors may get it.

Of course, if people would have obeyed God’s laws regarding clean and unclean meats (as well as not mistreating farm animals), this problem (as well probably “mad cow” disease in the USA) probably could have been avoided.

There is a lot more to this matter of unclean meats that most who profess Christ realize.

To learn more about what the Bible teaches about clean and unclean meats (as well as how the professing mainstream “Christians” began to eat biblically prohibited meats), please see the article The New Testament Church and Unclean Meats (the article also contains a detailed listing of clean and unclean animals).

Emails to the Left Behind

Tuesday, June 3rd, 2008

Atomic Bomb Detonated at Nagasaki

Who will be “left behind” for events like atomic devastation?

COGwriter

Some rapturists made the news a couple of days ago.  Notice this unusual story:

Web service allows Christians to e-mail people ‘left behind’

HARWICH, Mass. — Christians who believe they will be caught up in “the Rapture” can arrange to send messages to the people left behind. You’ve Been Left Behind is a new service that, for $40 a year, will automatically send messages to as many as 62 friends and family members who remain on earth after the Rapture.

Christians who hold to pretribulation teachings about the end times believe that when Jesus returns, all Christians will be caught up in the air, or “raptured,” with him.

Nonbelievers will be left behind, they believe, for a seven-year period of Tribulation that is described in the book of Revelation. The You’ve Been Left Behind service gives subscribers the opportunity to send one last e-mail message to the loved ones they believe will be left to endure the Tribulation.

The company’s Web site, www.youvebeenleftbehind.com, includes sample letters that subscribers can use when composing their own messages to friends.

“Imagine how taken aback they will be by the millions of missing Christians and devastation at the Rapture,” the Web site says. “They will know it was true and that they have blown it. …There will be a small window of time where they might be reached for the Kingdom of God. We have made it possible for you to send them a letter of love and a plea to receive Christ one last time.”

The Web site also gives users secure encrypted storage space to save financial information that they can send to people they want to help during the Tribulation. As to the question of how this service will be able to send out e-mails after the Rapture, assuming its operators are Christians: The system will automatically activate “when three of our five team members scattered around the U.S fail to log in over a three-day period. Another three days are given to failsafe any false triggering of the system.” http://www.reporterherald.com/feature-story.asp?ID=17129

What a scam!

Of course, one of the biggest problems that the pre-tribulation rapturists have is that they are wrong about Jesus returning twice.

While Jesus will return, it will not be until AFTER the Great Tribulation:

29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30 Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other (Matt 24:29-31, NKJV).

Because of this, those who expect to be raptured away prior to the Great Tribulation will be “caught unawares” (Luke 21:34, KJV).  And so, I would suggest that perhaps those who believe in the pre-tribulation rapture should read the following articles and email the truth to their friends who still believe that false notion–so that they can properly repent.

Otherwise, they will find themselves the ones who are “left behind”:

Is There A Secret Rapture for the Church? When and Where is the Church Protected? What does the Bible really teach? Who really is left behind?

There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory.

The Church in Smyrna

Monday, June 2nd, 2008

History of Early Christianity

COGwriter

As regular Bible readers are aware, Jesus had the Apostle John write messages to seven churches in Asia Minor. All seven were told to listen to what the Spirit said to the churches and all seven received some prophetic warnings.

And while there were complaints against 5 of the 7, there were none for two of them. The two that received no criticism were the churches of Philadelphian and Smyrna. And while most affiliated with the Church of God are familiar with at least part of the Philadelphia era of the Church (which was essentially represented by the pre-January 1986 Worldwide Church of God and now the Living Church of God), most people know very little about the Smyrna era of the Church of God–which is one of those that we in the Living Church of God trace our history through.

A few weeks ago, my wife and I were once again in Smyrna (which has been renamed Izmir by the Turks). The following is a picture of some of the ancient ruins there:

Agora of Ancient Smyrna

Ancient Smyrna (Taken May 11, 2008).

(Those interested in seeing more photos may wish to visit the Joyce’s Photos of Smyrna page.)

But there is an important aspect of Smyrna that I wish to emphasize today. Do you know what the Church of Smyrna really taught? And do you know why that is important?

While nearly all churches claim to get their doctrines at least partially from the Bible, might it not be helpful to realize what the church that was lead by the descendants of the apostles actually taught?

Both the Apostles John and Philip lived in Asia Minor until their deaths. And both apparently lived longer (with John clearly the longest–until the end of the 1st century) than the other apostles. Early church historians (2nd century–as well as later ones) are in agreement that the apostles appointed Polycarp to lead the churches there.

So if the Smyrna church was faithful, what did Polycarp and his Smyrnaean successors teach?

Notice the following list of teachings of early Christianity–all of which are accepted by the true Church of God and only a relatively few of which are practiced/taught/still accepted by Roman Catholics or Protestants (though early leaders considered as “saints” by the Catholics also held them):

Baptism was by immersion and did not include infants.
The complete Bible with the proper Old Testament and New Testament was relied on by the true Church in Asia Minor.
A Binitarian view was held by the apostolic and post-apostolic true Christian leaders.
Birthdays were not celebrated by early Christians.
Born-Again meant being born at the resurrection, not at the time of conversion.
Celibacy for Bishops/Presbyters/Elders was not a requirement.
Christmas was not observed by any professing Christ prior to the third century, or ever by those holding to early teachings.
Deification of Christians was taught by the early leaders of the Church.
Duties of Elders/Pastors were pastoral and theological, not predominantly sacramental–nor did they dress as many now do.
Easter was not observed by the apostolic church.
The Fall Holy Days were observed by true early Christians.
The Father was considered to be God by all early professing Christians.
Holy Spirit was not referred to as God or as a person by any early true Christians.
Hymns were mainly psalms, not praises to Christ.
Idols were taught against, including the use of the cross.
Immortality of the soul or humans was not taught.
Jesus was considered to be God by the true Christians.
The Kingdom of God was preached.
Lent was not observed by the primitive church.
Military Service was not allowed for true early Christians.
Millenarianism (a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth, often called the millennium) was taught by the early Christians.
Monasticism was unheard of in the early Christian church.
Passover was kept on the 14th of Nisan by apostolic and second century Christians in Asia Minor.
Pentecost was kept on the same day that the Jews observed it by all professing Christians.
The Resurrection of the dead was taught by all early Christians
The Sabbath was observed on Saturday by the apostolic and post-apostolic Church.
Salvation was believed to be offered to the chosen now by the early Church, with others being called later, though not all that taught that (or other doctrines) practiced “the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3).
God’s Six Thousand Year Plan for humankind to rule itself was believed by early professors of Christ.
Sunday was not observed by the apostolic and true post-apostolic Christians.
The Ten Commandments were observed by the apostolic and true post-apostolic Christians–and in the order that the Living Church of God claims they are in.
Tradition had some impact on the second century Christians, but was never supposed to supercede the Bible.
The Trinity was not a word used to describe the Godhead by the apostolic or second century Christians.
Unclean Meats were eaten by the early allegorists, but not by true Christians.
Leavened Bread was removed from the homes of early Christians when the Jews did the same.
The Virgin Birth was acknowledged by all true ante-Nicene Christians.

What About Today?

Almost none who profess Christianity hold to all of those beliefs.

The largest group (which happens to also be a “little flock”) that agrees with all the positions above, that were part of “the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3) is the Living Church of God.

It also specifically traces its history from the Apostles through Polycarp, Polycrates, and other leaders in Asia Minor.

That is part of why I believe that the Living Church of God has the clearest ties to the apostolic church of any church on this planet.

Articles of possibly related interest may include:

The History of Early Christianity Are you aware that what most people believe is not what truly happened to the true Christian church? Do you know where the early church was based? Do you know what were the doctrines of the early church? Is your faith really based upon the truth or compromise?
What Do Roman Catholic Scholars Actually Teach About Early Church History? Although most believe that the Roman Catholic Church history teaches an unbroken line of succession of bishops beginning with Peter, with stories about most of them, Roman Catholic scholars know the truth of this matter. This eye-opening article is a must-read for any who really wants to know what Roman Catholic history actually admits about the early church.
Location of the Early Church: Another Look at Ephesus, Smyrna, and Rome What actually happened to the primitive Church? And did the Bible tell about this in advance?
Apostolic Succession What really happened? Did structure and beliefs change? Are many of the widely-held current understandings of this even possible? Did you know that Catholic scholars really do not believe that several of the claimed “apostolic sees” of the Orthodox have apostolic succession–despite the fact that the current pontiff himself seems to wish to ignore this view? Is there actually a true church that has ties to any of the apostles that is not part of the Catholic or Orthodox churches? Read this article if you truly are interested in the truth on this matter!
The Churches of Revelation 2 & 3 from 31 A.D. to present: information on all of the seven churches of Revelation 2 & 3.
1. The Ephesus Church Era was predominant from 31 A.D. to circa 135 A.D. The Church of James, Peter, Paul, and John, etc.
2. The Smyrna Church Era was predominant circa 135 A.D. to circa 450 A.D. The Church led by Polycarp, Melito, Polycrates, etc.
3. The Pergamos Church Era was predominant circa 450 A.D. to circa 1050 A.D. An especially persecuted Church.
4. The Thyatira Church Era was predominant circa 1050 A.D. to circa 1600 A.D. The Church during the Inquisition.
5. The Sardis Church Era was predominant circa 1600 A.D. to circa 1933 A.D. Discusses early history of the Seventh Day Baptists, Seventh-day Adventists, and COG-7th Day.
6. The Philadelphia Church Era was predominant circa 1933 A.D. to 1986 A.D. The old Radio Church of God and old Worldwide Church of God, now basically the Living Church of God.
7. The Laodicean Church Era was predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. Non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG.
There are Many COGs: Why Support the Living Church of God? This is an article for those who wish to easily sort out the different COGs. It really should be a MUST READ for current and former WCG members or any interested in supporting the faithful church. It also explains a lot of what the COGs are all about.

45 Days Are Up and Nothing Happened Ronald Weinland

Sunday, June 1st, 2008

Which Book Do You Think Christians Should Rely On?

VS.
Ronald Weinland Says His Books and His Interpretations of the Bible Are What He Wants Potential Supporters to Study. The COGwriter Site Instead Urges Those Interested in Him and End-Time Prophecies to Spend More Time Checking His Writings with the Bible.

COGwriter

CGPFK’s home page now begins with the following:

ore than ever, this is the time to prepare for the return of Jesus Christ. The final Seventh Seal has now been opened and the world is being plunged into the final tribulation for mankind. Ronald Weinland, who is the pastor of God’s Church on earth, has also been appointed by the God of Abraham to be His end-time prophet and one of the two end-time witnesses (and spokesman of both), preceding the return of Jesus Christ.

However, the seventh seal has not been opened. Nor is Ronald Weinland one of the two witnesses (nor is his wife who he appointed as the other one on April 17th).

Basically in most of his May sermons, he keeps trying to say that the Great Tribulation began on March 18th, the 1260 days began on April 17th, but those only those with his perspective can see it.

Technically, according to what Ronald Weinland taught in a sermon given March 29, 2008 his time is almost up:

If by Pentecost I’m just going to make this real clear to everyone. If by Pentecost it is not powerfully and abundantly clear that there has been a great deal of destruction that will clearly encompass a third of all plant life in the US and at least the clear results of this mingled with blood the death of very much animal life and the beginning of large numbers of human life then I will stop preaching. Just so all the critics and everyone out there will understand. I am true to my word in these things. OK? And for all the critics if by the end of July and for most likely around Pentecost if nothing has clearly caused great destruction and death I will make it very clear that I was a false prophet. I will do exactly what I said I would do on all of those interviews that I have held; to do less, aah well, would be quite insane (Weinland R. Three More Weeks–quote from near the 1 hour 28 minute point from the CGPFK website version. Sermon given March 29, 2008).

Since Pentecost in 2008 is June 8th, in one week Ronald Weinland has to stop preaching according to his own words.

Of course, in his sermon last week (see Nuclear Attack in Two Weeks or Ronald Weinland Stops Preaching?), he said that he had between 45 and 90 days from an interview in April, thus extending (once again) when anything is supposed to happen according to him. The 45 days is up today, and the 90 days is up on July 16, 2008 according to the dates he gave last week.

While Ronald Weinland is, and remains, a self-appointed false prophet, the truth is that Pentecost is still coming next Sunday (information on that Holy Day can be found in the article Pentecost: Is it more than Acts 2? ). And so far, he has not declared himself to be a false prophet. Instead he seems to seethe hatred at those who have pointed out that his predictions have not come to pass and differ from what the Bible shows.

The cogwriter site, based upon what the Bible teaches, has been declaring that Ronald Weinland is a false prophet for the past couple of years. Time and circumstances continue to show that I, and not Ronald Weinland, have been more accurate about that. Those with him really need to open their eyes as the great tribulation has not began yet–and cannot begin until at least 2012.

Some articles that might help explain more of what the Bible teaches about prophecy well as to show why Ronald Weinland cannot be right include:

Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples ofthe United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? When does the six thousand years of human rule end?
Who Are The Two Witnesses? What is their job? What does the Bible reveal? What has the Church of God taught on this subject? Might even Roman Catholic prophecies give some clues here?
Concerns About Ronald Weinland’s Church of God-Preparing for the Kingdom of God Ronald Weinland falsely claims to be one of the two witnesses God is raising up and that the end will come in 2008. Is he a false prophet? He has at least one other view that suggests that he is not part of the COG.
There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory.
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? There is a Mayan calendar prediction for change in 2012. 2012 changes were also centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans and the Hindu Indians (who were not even on the same continent). Do these Mayan/Hindu/Hopi prophecies have any value? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Can the great tribulation start before 2012?
Why Be Concerned About False and Heretical Leaders? There have been many false leaders–and Ronald Weinland is one of them–here is some of why you should be concerned about them.