Church of God News

COGwriter

Unusual weather has caused disasters in many places this year.  Here are a couple of reports related to South America and Kansas:

175 people killed in South America cold spell

Trend – July 20, 2010

At least 175 people have died in the coldest winter in South America in recent years, officials in six affected countries said, dpa reported.

The cold was worst in southern Peru, where temperatures in higher altitudes of the Andes dropped to minus 23 degrees Celsius…

In Bolivia, 18 people died, in Paraguay five and two each in Chile and Uruguay. Nine people died of the cold in southern Brazil.

Thousands of cattle also froze to death on their pastures in Paraguay and Brazil. There are no stables for the animals as temperatures usually do not drop that low.

Several regions in Bolivia and Peru closed schools until the end of the week and larger cities opened emergency shelters for homeless people.

Electricity and gas networks are operating at capacity limits in many of the affected regions. Argentina reported natural gas shortages in several provinces.

http://en.trend.az/regions/world/ocountries/1723309.html

Kansas heat wave has killed 2,000 cattle

Reuters – July 20, 2010

CHICAGO (Reuters) – The intense heat and humidity that blanketed central Kansas since late last week have killed more than 2,000 cattle and one state official called the heat-related losses the worst in his 17 years on the job.

However, conditions for the cattle improved somewhat on Tuesday as the humidity has decreased and the wind has picked up, state and feedlot sources said…

“It is all cattle in feedlots. It is more the humidity than the heat,” Ken Powell, environmental scientist with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said of the more than 2,000 cattle deaths…

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Kansas-heat-wave-has-killed-rb-1249709782.html?x=0&.v=3

So it has been cold in South America and hot in Kansas, and both conditions killed cattle (I do not condone the use of feedlots for cattle and doubt that Kansas would have had the cattle deaths without “modern” feedlot practices).

Over in China, it has had floods:

China Flooding Kills 701, Worst Toll In A Decade

by The Associated Press  July 21, 2010

More than 1,000 people have died or disappeared in severe flooding in China so far this year, and the heaviest rains are still to come, a senior official warned Wednesday.

This year’s floods, which have caused tens of billions of dollars in damage already, have exacted the highest death toll since 1998…  http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128658026

Over in the often wet Philippines, it is somewhat dry in some areas:

Angat water level drops to lowest in history

ABS-CBN July 20, 2010

MANILA, Philippines (3rd UPDATE)  – Customers of Maynilad Water Services Inc. are bracing themselves for more bad news, with the water level in Angat dam reaching its lowest water level in history.

The water concessionaire, which supplies water and handles wastewater services in Metro Manila’s west zone covering 17 cities and municipalities, said on Monday that the water level in Angat dam has receded to 157.56 meters above sea level, which is way below the critical level of 180 meters.

Maynilad said that based on its records, this is the lowest water level in history…

http://ph.news.yahoo.com/abs/20100720/tph-angat-water-level-drops-to-lowest-in-8061bf7.html

The weather situations around the world affect many things, including the economy, people’s lives, and the food supply.  The fact that so much is happening now, may be consistent with certain end time prophecies.  But the end is not yet.

LCG has long had a booklet of possibly related interest titled “Who Controls the Weather? ” that is available for those interested in more on the weather and Bible prophecy.

Jesus foretold on a time of natural disasters as “the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:7-8), but the Book of Revelation (16:8-11) tells of a time of even greater disturbances during “the Day of the Lord”.

Now there is good news as ultimately, God’s kingdom will come and those issues will be gone (Revelation 7:16).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? True religion should be based upon the true gospel.
Mexico, Central America, South America, and Brazil in Prophecy [Español: México, America Central, Suramérica, y el Brasil en profecíal] [Português: México, América Central, Ámérica do Sul, e Brasil na profecia] What will happen to those of Latin America? Will they have prosperity? Will they cooperate with Europe? Will they suffer in the future? What rule might the various Caribbean nations/territories play?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, Japanese, and others of Asia? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
Islands and Bible Prophecy What’s ahead for islands? What does the Bible prophesy about them?
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?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2010, 2011, or 2012? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?

Herman Van Rompuy

COGwriter

Zenit.org, a pro-Vatican website, reported the following:

Poverty Growing in Europe, Holy See Warns

Participates in Summit With EU Religious Leaders
BRUSSELS, Belgium, JULY 19, 2010 (Zenit.org).- Social inequalities are growing at an alarming rate in Europe, along with unemployment and other problems, the Holy See warned at the annual summit of religious leaders with institutions of the European Union.

http://www.zenit.org/article-29934?l=english

The EU’s President, Herman Van Rompuy was also present:

EU and religious leaders join forces in fight against poverty

TheParliament.com – Martin Banks 19th July 2010…

Van Rompuy was in “no doubt” that the views expressed by the religious leaders at the meeting would be “taken into account” in future policy making.  http://www.theparliament.com/latest-news/article/newsarticle/eu-and-religious-leaders-join-forces-in-fight-against-poverty/

Herman Van Rompuy is Roman Catholic.  The fact that other faiths were there at that meeting gives him some cover so that he will not seem to blatantly pro-Vatican.  But I believe that he really wants to support the Vatican wherever he can.

As regular readers of this page are aware, I suspect that if Daniel 11:20 has a future fulfillment, that it is possible that Herman Van Rompuy will fulfill the role of the “raiser of taxes” (e.g. EU’s Rompuy: The Raiser of Taxes?).  “Social justice” and poverty concerns are often used as partially justification for raising additional taxes.

Some articles of possibly related interest may 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 of the 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? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe?
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?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect This is a link related to a book by Bob Thiel (COGwriter). This also has YouTube videos related to 2012.  The book contains documented prophecies as well as an end time sequence of events that Christians should study and understand.  Including the role of Europe and how it is pivotal to end time biblical prophecy.

Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Iran

COGwriter

Although the CIA recently indicated that Iran would not have “the bomb” until 2012 (see ), it now is being reported that Iran may be even further along in its development of nuclear weapons:

US and Israel fear Iran may be capable of a nuclear test this year

DEBKA – July 19, 2010

…as of now, their forecast of a nuclear test capability has been brought forward to within the five months remaining of 2010.http://www.debka.com/article/8918/

Iran announced plans to unveil its own submarine as early as August of 2010 according to another news report today (http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-07-19/iranian-made-submarines-to-be-unveiled-in-august-minister-says.html).  Submarines give Iran additional places to hide, and possibly deploy, nuclear weapons.

These developments make it more likely that the State of Israel will attack Iran.

Since Iran is NOT going to be the leader of the final King of the South, something is likely to happen (an attack from Israel/USA and/or civil unrest/revolution are two possibilities) to stop Iran from getting enough power to lead the final Islamic confederation.

As Iran’s goal seems to be to cause enough conflict to cause the fulfillment one or more Shi’ite prophecies (see Forbes: Iran Preparing for War and the Mahdi), it is likely to be in the news for a while as it does not seem to care very much if it provokes a major attack.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? What does the Bible say?
The Arab World (and Iran) In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam?  How might Iran be involved?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? Are there Mayan calendar predictions for change in 2012? Changes were centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans. Do Mayan/Hindu/Hopi/Buddhist/New Age/Nostradamus prophecies have any value here? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start before 2012? How might Barack Obama be involved in 2012?
2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect This is a link related to a book by Bob Thiel (COGwriter). This also has YouTube videos. This book documents and explains hundreds of prophecies. And since it was published, many have already started to come to pass.

Temple Institute Altar

COGwriter

A newly released poll shows that nearly half of the people in Israel support the construction of a third temple:

Half the Public Wants to See Holy Temple Rebuilt

Israel National News – July 18, 2010

Half the Israeli public wants the Holy Temple (Beit HaMikdash) to be rebuilt. This is the main finding of a poll commissioned by the Knesset Television Channel and carried out by the Panels Institute…

Given the current political climate, the onset of construction of the Beit HaMikdash, and possibly even a poll on the subject, is not likely to go over quietly in the Islamic world, which currently has day-to-day control over the Temple Mount. http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/138655

There is a group called the Temple Institute that has been preparing implements for a new temple.  They also have produced a sacrificial altar and many of the associated implements (Temple Institute Completes Altar of Unhewn Stones).

Yet, because the Muslims have a strong presence at the site of the old Temple Mount (Har HaBayit) with their al-Aqsa Mosque, some consider the actual construction of a Jewish temple there to be impossible.

Now, though many feel that the Jews must have a physical temple prior to the arrival of the final Antichrist, the reality is that the Jews do not need temple to perform animal sacrifices (Ezra 3:6), only an altar–which they already have, plus governmental permission–which they do not have.

Israeli courts have agreed that Jews have the right to perform animal sacrifices, but have repeatedly denied this right as the timing would have excessively negative consequences.  And to rebuild a temple in the area that the Muslims consider sacred would be even more problematic politically.

To verify my belief that religious Jews understand that animal sacrifices are possible without a temple, I (a Southern Californian) emailed the group calling itself the reconstituted Sanhedrin in Israel.  Here is the most relevant portion of their response:

…IT IS PERMITTED TO PERFORM SACRIFICES despite having no Temple, since the sanctity of the Temple is eternal. (Part of an email from the Sanhedrin webmaster Abrahamson to Bob Thiel of San Luis Obispo, California, September 17, 2008)

Thus, a temple is not required for sacrifices as far as the Sanhedrin in Israel is concerned.

So what about the temple survey?

The temple survey suggests that there is significant support within Israel to try to more publicly restore ancient religious practices and symbols in that land.  And while the Jews are fairly pragmatic and the Israeli government would be careful to not intentionally destroy Islamic buildings, the fact is that at some point in time, the allowance of animal sacrifices will be allowed.  And it may be as part of a compromise to only use an altar as opposed to rebuilding a temple in the old Temple Mount area.

Of course, in a nation as politically fragmented as modern Israel, the time may come when a ruling coalition will itself have in it some members of a small religious group that will insist on the resumption of sacrifices for it to remain in office.  And allowing sacrifices on a small altar certainly would seem politically more plausible than the construction of a Jewish temple on the dome of the rock or otherwise next to the al-Aqsa Mosque. While this may not be seen as viable in every possible Israeli administration, it certainly is a possibility for a future one.

The Bible is clear that sacrifices will be stopped by the final King of the North (Daniel 9:27; 11:31).  And in order for them to be stopped, they must start first.  And while a temple could be built for that purpose, politically and biblically, the idea that sacrifices will start on an altar outside a rebuilt temple is more likely.  But the fact that almost half of Israelis support the idea of a temple being rebuilt strongly suggests that a significant amount of them would support the idea of sacrifices–with or without a rebuilt temple.

An article of related interest would be:

Why is a Jewish Temple in Jerusalem Not Required? Although people like Timothy LaHaye teach a third Jewish temple is required for end-time prophecies to be fulfilled, who is ‘the temple of God” in the New Testament?  What does the Bible teach about the temple in the end-times?  The Bible teaches that the sacrifices will be stopped (Daniel 9:27; 11:31), but do Jewish sources or the Bible mandate a completed temple for those sacrifices?  What did Ezra do when there was no temple?
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 of the 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? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Some Doctrines of Antichrist Are there any doctrines taught outside the Churches of God which can be considered as doctrines of antichrist? This article suggests at least three. It also provides information on 666 and the identity of “the false prophet”. Plus it shows that several Catholic writers seem to warn about an ecumenical antipope that will support heresy.
Is There an Islamic Antichrist?Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel What will happen to Israel?  Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?  What about the modern nation of Israel and Jerusalem?

EADS Eurofighter Typhoon Jet

COGwriter

One of Europe’s leading military suppliers is trying to expand internationally:

July 18, 2010

EADS looks to India, Brazil for defense growth

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/eads-looks-to-india-brazil-for-defense-growth-2010-07-18

I have long written that Brazil would get closer to Europe militarily and economically (see Mexico, Central America, South America, and Brazil in Prophecy), and this seems to be a step in that direction.

The Bible is clear that a major military deal will be made between the Europeans and the Arabs (Psalm 83).  Having smaller ones prior to that would seem to also be necessary.  And that is apparently what EADS is hoping to do.

India keeps taking steps to try to become a more important economic (see India’s 2020 Expectations) and military power (Russia and India Hoping for Jet Superiority by 2015).  Deals, such as what EADS seems willing to do, would seem consistent with this.

Of course, any deals that the Europeans get likely will mean that the USA (the world’s largest arms exporter) will get less.  Southern California used to be the military aerospace capital of the world.  And it looks like it has lost so much of its capacity to other USA states and foreign countries, that it will not regain that position.  Only a couple of decades ago, Hughes Aircraft was the largest private employer in California.  But many operations were moved to other states and the company itself sold off in pieces.

The tide is turning against USA dominance of aerospace.  And while the USA still has the “strongest fortresses”, its people would be wise to realize that the Bible is clear that the end time European King of the North (which is developing but not ready yet) will go against the land of the strongest fortresses and divide it for gain (please read and pray about Daniel 11:39, NKJV, if you have any doubts).

The more European companies like EADS succeed, the closer this is coming.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe?
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 of the 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? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?
Is There an Islamic Antichrist?Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.
Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi? What does the Bible say?
The Arab World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi?
India, Its Biblical Past and Future: Any Witness? The Bible discusses the origins of those of Indian heritage and discusses some of the witness to them (including those in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka).
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
Mexico, Central America, South America, and Brazil in Prophecy [Español: México, America Central, Suramérica, y el Brasil en profecíal] [Português: México, América Central, Ámérica do Sul, e Brasil na profecia] What will happen to those of Latin America? Will they have prosperity? Will they cooperate with Europe? Will they suffer in the future? What rule might the various Caribbean nations/territories play?

COGwriter

The Obama Administration seems to wish to further minimize religion in America according to the following articles:

Minor Changes in Language Could Mean Major Changes in Religious Freedom

Catholic Online – July 16, 2010    By Randy Sly

WASHINGTON, DC (Catholic Online) – The change in language was barely noticeable to the average citizen but political observers are raising red flags at the use of a new term “freedom of worship” by President Obama and Secretary Clinton as a replacement for the term freedom of religion. This shift happened between the President’s speech in Cairo where he showcased America’s freedom of religion and his appearance in November at a memorial for the victims of Fort Hood, where he specifically used the term “freedom of worship.” From that point on, it has become the term of choice for the president and Clinton…

http://catholic.org/national/national_story.php?id=37390&page=1Why “Freedom of Worship” Is Not Enough

First Things – Feb 22, 2010

by Ashley Samelson…

Recently, both President Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have been caught using the phrase “freedom of worship” in prominent speeches, rather than the “freedom of religion” the President called for in Cairo…

Any person of faith knows that religious exercise is about a lot more than freedom of worship. It’s about the right to dress according to one’s religious dictates, to preach openly, to evangelize, to engage in the public square. Everyone knows that religious Jews keep kosher, religious Quakers don’t go to war, and religious Muslim women wear headscarves—yet “freedom of worship” would protect none of these acts of faith…The Obama administration should heed its own words when it comes to religious freedom. http://www.firstthings.com/onthesquare/2010/02/why-ldquofreedom-of-worshiprdquo-is-not-enough

This Obama Administration change is a bigger change than most understand.  Freedom of religion is under attack in the USA, UK, and elsewhere.

And it is consistent with a court decision in the UK a short while back.  Basically a UK judge ruled that one can believe anything one wants, but cannot put those beliefs into practice if they are in conflict government anti-discrimination laws (this case, if I recall correctly, had to do with “abortion rights”).  There is also another case in the UK where an unmarried (in this case homosexual) couple is suing two innkeepers because the innkeepers do not rent single rooms to unmarried people because of their religious beliefs–freedom to practice religion in one’s professional life is being highly discounted by at least the USA and UK governments at an increasingly alarming rate.

Since his election in November 2008, I have consistently warned that USA President Obama was NOT the final antichrist, but was apocalyptic.  Notice another statement from my book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect that should ring true for believers:

As the God of the Bible expects leaders to encourage repentance and moral behaviors when they are subject to destructive punishment (cf. Jonah 3:6-9), and Barack Obama does not seem to believe that the U.S.A. needs to repent for its sins against God, his policies seem to be focused on not relying on God.

Although USA President Obama publicly claims to be a Christian, trying to subtly reduce religious freedom is not something a true Christian leader would do.

For more information, please check out the following:

Prophecies of Barack Obama? Are there biblical and non-biblical prophecies about Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist?  This is a lengthy article with many prophecies that Barack Obama may end up fulfilling.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled by him?
Barack Obama in Islamic Prophecy? There is actually a 17th century Shiite prophecy that some believe that Barack Obama will fulfill that will lead to a rising up of Islam.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? Are there Mayan calendar predictions for change in 2012? Changes were centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans. Do Mayan/Hindu/Hopi/Buddhist/New Age/Nostradamus prophecies have any value here? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start before 2012? How might Barack Obama be involved in 2012?
2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect This is a link related to a book by Bob Thiel (COGwriter). This also has YouTube videos. This book documents and explains hundreds of prophecies. Chapter 8 is titled Barack Obama, Islam, and the End of America.  Since this book was published, many of its predictions have already started to come to pass.

Ancient Laodicea

COGwriter

UCG just posted the following from its new president, Dennis Luker:

What must it sound like to God to hear each of us and our perspective on the trials and conflicts we are presently having in the Church? We each have our own understanding and point of view. But what is God most concerned about, and what is He planning to accomplish through this trial?…

God also hates those who do “violence” to the brethren by spreading lies and rumors. “These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, a lying tongue…a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren” (Proverbs 6:16-17, 19).

So, God makes it clear that He is always testing us, especially those of us in the ministry, to find out what is deep in our hearts…

I believe that all of us as elders, called by God to serve His people and do His work, are being severely tested by God in order to reveal the true depth of our conversion and Christian conduct. Are we setting an example for the brethren in everything we say and do? I don’t think so, when you look at the fruits of what is happening.

What can we do? What should we do? The answer is given in these scriptures: “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place” (2 Chronicles 7:14-15).

I hope and pray, as you do, that we will all humble ourselves and seek God’s forgiveness for our sins and mistakes that He might heal our church.

The above hints that Dennis Luker believes that some are spreading lies about what happened.  Since he is not providing facts and details himself, he may be spreading some type of rumor himself.

But I do agree with him that UCG is being tested.  And that it has made mistakes.  Amongst other things, its form of governance, as well as lack of gospel proclamation evidence, continues to be found wanting.

In LCG’s update, read at services yesterday, Dr. Winnail wrote:

Humility—Key to Unity: David wrote, “How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Psalm 133:1). The Apostle Paul urged Christians to “walk worthy” of their calling “with all lowliness and gentleness… endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:1-3). He stated that the work of the ministry is to edify (build up) the body (the Church) “till we all come to the unity of the faith” (Ephesians 4:12-13). Paul also told contentious Corinthians that they should be “perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10). But what causes contentions that disrupt unity? The Scriptures reveal that pride is an underlying cause of contentions (Proverbs 13:10) and that pride will contribute to a person’s downfall and destruction (Proverbs 16:18). Insisting on doing things our own way also causes dissentions and strife (James 4:1). However, humility will eventually bring a person honor (Proverbs 15:33; 29:23) and will promote peace and unity (James 3:17-18). Jesus Christ was of “one mind” with His Father (John 10:30), and He was exalted because He humbled Himself and followed His Father’s instructions (Philippians 2:5-9). As Christians, we are encouraged to be subject to government (within and without the Church) and not to resist authority (Romans 13:1-2), to treat each other with respect, to be humble and not conceited about your own opinions (Romans 12:10-18). As we develop and learn to exercise this kind of humility, we will promote unity.

And pride is one of the main reasons that the COGs are not unified.  And this is one reason why adherence to biblical governance is essential.  Without it, people think they change priorities, etc.  But because of pride, many will not admit that they erred when they went with groups like UCG.

Here is something that LCG’s Dr. Meredith just wrote in his latest coworker letter about right government, and then Laodicea:

We will—with God’s help—reach this world as “a witness” with the true message of Jesus Christ regarding the “Kingdom of God”—the great Government which He is now preparing and which will soon be set up on this earth.

Just the other day, I was given the results of my latest television program which was aired this past weekend. We received more than 5,200 responses—even during this normally “slow” summer season. So we are very thankful for the results that God is giving us…

Around the world and around the country, the Work of God is increasing in power. We also have a great deal of unity and loyalty because we practice the “way of God”—including the correct form of Church Government which Jesus Christ and the apostles clearly taught and practiced continually. So we are blessed. God has been good to us in spite of our human faults and errors. So we have much to be thankful for…

However, dear friends and brethren, one of the most powerful warnings God gives all of us at the end of this age is the clear warning not to be “Laodicean.” What does God condemn the Laodiceans for, primarily? He does not condemn them for wrong doctrine. He does not condemn them for big personal sins. He states in His inspired Word, “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth” (Revelation 3:15-16).

So the last Church Era of this age is Laodicea. And this age is therefore dominated by the “Laodicean spirit”—a spirit of apathy and lukewarmness. Often, even God’s people reflect the attitude or spirit of those around them. This must be even more so now because of the pervasive influence of television and the Internet. People in most of the world are becoming more and more “worldly” in many ways. They are distracted by their focus on wealth, prosperity and “things.” God seems “far off” to them. So they are apathetic. They do not get excited and truly zealous about serving the Creator who gives them life and breath.

Yet, throughout God’s Word, He tells us over and over that absolute zeal and total commitment to serving Him are some of the characteristics He most looks for in His true servants.

5,200 responses (these are people who basically telephone in as the result of a single telecast) in one week is a number that those not part of LCG should think about.  It is about four times as much as all the other COGs (including UCG) combined.

Laodicea is made up of two Greek words that basically mean “people decide”–the implication is that they decide that their own criteria are more important than those in the Bible.  Because of this, they reason around placing the proper emphasis on the public proclamation portion of the work of God.  What about you?  Will you follow the criteria of the Bible or your own?

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Polycarp, Herbert W. Armstrong, and Roderick C. Meredith on Church Government What form of governance did the early church have? Was it hierarchical? 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?
Unity: Which COG for You? Why so many groups? Why is there lack of unity in the Churches of God? Has it always been this way? What can/should be done about it?
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.
There are Many COGs: Why Support the Living Church of God? This is an article for those who wish to more easily sort out the different COGs. It really should be a MUST READ for current and former WCG/GCI members or any interested in supporting the faithful church. It also explains a lot of what the COGs are all about.
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 Laodicean Church Era has been predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. These are non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG.

COGwriter

While debt in the UK and USA have been covered here a lot lately, New Zealand is having dollar and debt problems as well:

Chilling levels of household debt finally dawns

By Bernard Hickey

4:00 AM Sunday Jul 18, 2010

In years to come New Zealanders will look back on the winter of 2010 as the moment we finally realised the last decade of growth was a sham…

Our productivity hasn’t grown much in the past decade and now we can’t disguise it any more by spending borrowed foreign money.

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=10659502

New Zealand Dollar At Risk As Pessimism Grows

Friday, 16 July 2010 21:22 GMT | Written by John Rivera…

Disappointing corporate revenues and a decline in U.S. consumer confidence stoke fears that the global economy is beginning to stagnate. http://www.dailyfx.com/forex/fundamental/forecast/weekly/nzd/2010-07-16-2122-New_Zealand_Dollar_At_Risk.html

The economy of the USA was moving along on mortgage debt for a number of years as well.  And that can only last so long.  If New Zealand has a similar problem, it may have some negative consequences coming.

New Zealand, despite its distance from other nations, will be affected by many of the same issues that will impact the larger Anglo-descended nations such as the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia.  And debt will apparently be a contributing factor to its downfall as well:

3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry…5 Indeed, because he transgresses by wine, He is a proud man… 6 “Will not all these take up a proverb against him, And a taunting riddle against him, and say, ‘Woe to him who increases What is not his–how long? And to him who loads himself with many pledges’? 7 Will not your creditors rise up suddenly? Will they not awaken who oppress you? And you will become their booty. 8 Because you have plundered many nations, All the remnant of the people shall plunder you (Habakkuk 2:3,5,6-8).

The above prophecy will be fulfilled at the time of the end.

For more information, please check out the following:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?

Two Women Wearing Burqas

COGwriter

In his commentary this morning, ICG’s Mark Armstrong included the following news article:

Europe’s Backlash Against Islamization
Frontpage Magazine

…France took the first step in trying to stop the spread of Islam by banning any religious symbols from being worn in public schools…Then in November, the Swiss voted in favor of banning the construction of minarets on mosques. This has sparked major movements on the continent to take further measures that would have been unthinkable a decade ago.

One by one, the countries of Europe are placing restrictions on wearing the burqas and niqabs in government buildings or even in public. In April, Belgium became the first of them to pass an all-encompassing ban, and the French Council of Ministers followed by passing a similar ban that the National Assembly has just approved. It is expected to pass the Senate in September…

Now, the Senate in Spain has passed a motion calling on the government to completely ban the wearing of the veil in public…

http://frontpagemag.com/2010/07/15/backlash-against-islamization-in-europe/

This, as prophecy watchers understand, was expected.  Europe is getting fed up with Islam and its attempts to demonstrate that it is influencing Europe and taking over parts of European cities.  As I have reported before, Europe is taking steps toward de-Islamization (see Burqa Banning in Belgium, Italy, France, and Australia, Anti-Islamic PVV Gaining in the Netherlands, and Switzerland Votes to Ban Minarets).

Voice of America produced the following yesterday about France’s burqa ban:

July 16, 2010

French Burqa Vote Stirs Strong Reaction

France’s lower house of Parliament has voted overwhelmingly in favor of banning women from wearing the full Muslim veil – the face-covering niqab and the burqa – in public.  Some say the move is necessary for security while others say it is religious discrimination against Muslims.

The vote was overwhelming Tuesday – 336 – 1. ..

A new poll by the Pew Research Center shows that more than 82 percent of the French public approves of the ban. Majorities in Germany (71 percent), Britain (62 percent) and Spain (59 percent) said they would support banning the full-face veils in their own countries. By contrast, in the same poll, a majority of Americans said they would not approve a similar law.  http://www1.voanews.com/english/news/europe/French-Burqa-Vote-Stirs-Strong-Reaction-98602469.html

Although Americans often think that Europeans are more “liberal”, historically Europe has taken very tough stands against Islam.  And will do that again (cf. Daniel 11:40-43).

However, it is not just enough to be against something.  Europe will also need to be for something.  And according to prophecies from the Bible and Catholic sources, it will apparently embrace a changed ecumenical religion that will call itself Catholic, that will be encouraged by one known as the Great Monarch, or as the Bible calls him, the final King of the North.

Islam, on the other hand, is not going to like getting restrictions placed upon it.  And despite the fact that pretty much all of the European nations are more tolerant of Islam than most Islamic nations are of non-Islamic religions, these bans in Europe will likely be a rallying cry for the coming Imam Mahdi, or as the Bible calls him, the final King of the South.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? What does the Bible say?
The Arab World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam?  What role might non-Arab Iran play?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? What is ahead for Europe?
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 of the 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? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Is There an Islamic Antichrist?Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?
Catholic Prophecies: Do They Mirror, Highlight, or Contradict Biblical Prophecies? People of all faiths may be surprised to see what various Roman and Orthodox Catholic prophets have been predicting as many of their predictions will be looked to in the 21st century.

Ancient Laodicea

COGwriter

Last night, John Carmack, a UCG supporter, posted the following:

According to a post both on Facebook and the UCG Current Crisis blog, Lauro Roybal has filed an appeal and also charges the UCG COE with unethical behavior.

Most of the post, ironically, is actually from the UCG “Policy For Suspension and Expulsion From the General Conference of Elders”, with certain portions bolded.I will reiterate what I’ve said before that the COE has acted unwisely and has made a bad situation worse.  It remains to be seen if the rift can be healed or if even the COE can undo any of the damage.

Here is how the posted appeal begins:

I, Lauro A. Roybal, with the present am filing charges of unethical behavior against the president and Council members for what they have done to me, Larry Roybal, to Mr. Leon Walker and to Saúl Langarica.

I am also formally appealing all actions taken against me in suspending me from my job and also expelling me from the GCE as well as taking away my ministerial credentials.

I believe that it is unconscionable, unethical and unlawful for you to remove us without ever speaking to any of us about it and for no apparent or justifiable cause.

What you have done is clearly contrary to the policy of the United Church of God, an International Organization.

In the policy of “filing charges of unethical behavior” you will find that you have clearly violated your own policies. Also as we (Saul Langarica and I) are employees in foreign countries, you should have also abode by the law of those countries when you fired us without cause from our employment.

Now, I have refrained from posting all the gory details of UCG’s problems in the past several months (there are actually several websites that seem to be somewhat dedicated to all the details).  I have chose mainly to post a few items, to hopefully drive home what I have been stating since UCG formed.

Which is?

Its form of governance is not biblical and its priorities have never truly aligned with what I believe that Jesus established for the New Testament church (Matthew 28:19-20; 24:14).  It is not that I feel that UCG is not a COG, it is simply that, overall, it has never had a work that could be considered as anything “hot”.

As I have been writing for nearly 15 years, UCG has never really been totally “united”.  Why people remain loyal to a group without biblically proper structure or biblically proper emphasis on gospel-proclaiming has always been disappointing to me.  Of course, Jesus was less than thrilled with the Laodiceans as He declared:

15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot.  16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.  17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ — and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked —   18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.  19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.  20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.  (Revelation 3:15-20)

Jesus indicated that the Laodiceans would be satisfied with a lukewarm work and not think that they had to listen and change.  Are you in that category?  If so, what will you do about it?

The Bible does not endorse “group think”, but instead insists upon individual responsibility for one’s spiritual life (Matthew 10:34-37, Philippians 2:12).  Yet, most that I have spoke with in UCG have basically told me that they were in UCG because their friends, family, etc. were part of it (cf. Matthew 10:34-37), its location/activities were more conducive (cf. Matthew 13:45-46), they liked a certain minister (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:5-6), etc. .  But those are criteria that the Bible specifically indicates are not appropriate.  Laodicea is made up of two Greek words that basically mean “people decide”–the implication is that they decide that their own criteria are more important than those in the Bible.  Will you follow the criteria of the Bible or your own?

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Polycarp, Herbert W. Armstrong, and Roderick C. Meredith on Church Government What form of governance did the early church have? Was it hierarchical? 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?
Unity: Which COG for You? Why so many groups? Why is there lack of unity in the Churches of God? Has it always been this way? What can/should be done about it?
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.
There are Many COGs: Why Support the Living Church of God? This is an article for those who wish to more easily sort out the different COGs. It really should be a MUST READ for current and former WCG/GCI members or any interested in supporting the faithful church. It also explains a lot of what the COGs are all about.
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 Laodicean Church Era has been predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. These are non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG.