Church of God News

Laodicea has many ineffective structures

COGwriter

The Church of God, a Worldwide Association (COGWA, a recent UCG break-away group) voted to keep that name:

January 11, 2011 – The meetings began as Interim Board President Mike Hanisko called upon Kevin Epps for the opening prayer. Mr.Hanisko then announced the result of the ballot for our church name. Of the 118 ballots cast, 78 chose “Church of God, a Worldwide Association.” So our temporary name has now become our official name.

No name that COGWA would choose would get me to believe that it will truly focus on proclaiming the gospel in fulfilling Matthew 24:14.

The leaders of COGWA have been used to having such a large portion of church income used for matters other than proclaiming the gospel that it is not likely that they would change in approach.  Another reason I believe this is that proclaiming the gospel was the lowest of 6 priorities that COGA (whose leaders now seemingly have affiliation with COGWA) established.

Furthermore, in all that I have read about WHY the 150 or so ministers/elders left UCG in the past year, none whose resignation letters I recall reading have seemed to give lack of focus on proclaiming the gospel as the main reason for leaving UCG (United Church of God).

FWIW, yesterday,  UCG reported the following about many who are not in COGWA:

The vast majority of this activity took place at the ministerial level and the membership was not involved. When former ministers broke faith and began to widen this conflict to the membership, the Council began to take action. Some former ministers objected to the Council answering questions and protecting the precious flock. A few were terminated, but the majority resigned. They have now formed a separate organization. As evidenced by their actions, those ministers have chosen a different course than that agreed to in the Church’s Constitution, Bylaws and mission based on God’s revealed Word.

In the past, while Council members made numerous good-faith efforts in accordance with biblical principles, former administrators and elders continued to raise the same issues over and over again. Based on this sad experience, it was evident that calling a major meeting just to rehash issues would accomplish little or nothing. Given the open announcement of their plans, long in the making, to form a new organization, it is very evident that any large-scale meeting of all ministers to address old issues would have borne little fruit—because they were acting on previously laid plans and never accepted the factual answers to these issues.

So, in UCG’s view this is essentially the fault of rebels not being reasonable.  My reading from COGWA supporters suggests that those elders/ministers there believe they were the reasonable ones, etc.

If you are or were part of UCG and are confused about what to do, please pray, fast, and study the Bible about this. Decide if you wish to follow the lukewarm or those that Jesus Christ has truly been using to do the work–those who have had the same basic governing principles for over 40 years.

I realize that neither I, Dr. Meredith, nor others in LCG are perfect.  But hopefully we are trying to do the work that the Bible indicates that the church most faithful to the words of Jesus would do.

Those affected by this crisis who wish to support a more effective gospel-proclaiming organization should, despite our flaws, consider checking out LCG, as it has stood for proper church governance and the work since its foundation (which preceded its formation).

It’s decision time for those who have been affiliated with UCG. Most of those part of the COGWA and UCG leadership have already demonstrated, to me at least, that neither group intends to be Philadelphian.  But that the choice of LCG still remains.

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.
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation 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?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Those Laodiceans in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand will likely be affected sooner by the coming Great Tribulation than the Laodiceans in other lands.

Pope Benedict XVI

COGwriter

Pope Benedict made the news:

Pope Lauds Call to Defend Mideast Christians

Rome’s Zenit News – Jan 10, 2011

VATICAN CITY – Benedict XVI is expressing appreciation to the European countries that have taken up the call to defend Mideast Christians under violent attack.

The Pope stated this today in an annual New Year address to members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See. http://www.catholic.net/index.php?option=zenit&id=31405

His comments were apparently in response to the following items:

Foreign minister calls on EU to protect Christians

AKI – Jan 7, 2011

Rome (AKI) – Italy’s foreign minister Franco Frattini on Friday sent a letter to the European Union’s foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton urging the bloc to take steps to protect Christians around the world, according to unnamed sources at the Italian foreign ministry. The letter, signed by the Italian, French, Polish and Hungarian foreign ministers asks for the persecution of Christians to be discussed at a meeting of EU foreign ministers on 31 January, the sources said. It calls for concrete action to be taken to uphold respect for religious freedom and freedom of expression, said the sources.

http://www.adnkronos.com/IGN/Aki/English/Religion/Italy-Foreign-minister-calls-on-EU-to-protect-Christians_311508720699.html

France calls for European response to attacks on Christians

AFP – Jan 4, 2011

French Foreign Minister Michele Alliot-Marie on Tuesday called on Europe to come up with a coordinated response to attacks on the Middle East’s Christians after this week’s deadly bombing in Egypt.

Alliot-Marie told Europe 1 radio that she would send a letter to European Union foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton asking that “not only France but all of Europe takes up… this problem in its entirety.”  http://www.expatica.com/fr/news/french-news/france-calls-for-european-response-to-attacks-on-christians_121199.html

Notice that this seems to suggest that the Europeans, not the Americans, are the ones getting involved in protecting the primarily Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Protestant victims/terror targets.  Ultimately the Europeans will decide to also go into Jerusalem.

Jesus taught:

20 But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near.  (Luke 21:20, NKJV)

And while this has not happened yet, steps are being taken to fulfill that prophecy.  Pope Benedict’s comments may be referred to by others in the future as partial justification to put enough European troops in the Jerusalem area.

We in the Living Church of God believe that many world events are currently lining up with Bible prophecy.  And while the end is not yet here, it is getting closer than most seem to think.

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”?
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? What MUST happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Could He Become “the Beast”? What makes the German Defense Minister a candidate?
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? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2018 or 2019?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation 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?

Crown of Original “Holy Roman Emperor”

COGwriter

Two recent news items suggest that Germany is improving its military role and influence in the world:

US and Germany in joint spy satellite project: cable

AFP – Jan 3, 2011

The United States and Germany are jointly developing secret spy satellites under the guise of a commercial programme despite opposition from France, leaked US diplomatic cables showed Monday. The project, named HiROS, envisions the construction of an undetermined number of high-resolution observation satellites capable of spotting any object on the planet down to a size of just 50 centimetres (about 1.5 feet) according to classified cables from US embassy in Berlin leaked to WikiLeaks and obtained by Norwegian daily Aftenposten…

Due to the controversial nature of the programme, US and German officials have decided it should be presented as a civilian project with environmental aims, run by commercial entities.

But in reality it is “under the total control” of German intelligence service BND and the German aerospace centre DLR, the cables showed. http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=CNG.63ce099f0759b32debc0c53d5ee39e68.4a1&show_article=1

Berlin’s ambitious UN Security Council agenda

Germany has taken its seat on the UN Security Council this week touting an ambitious agenda. Some of this will end in disappointment, experts warn. But there is still much Berlin can achieve.

The Local – Jan 5, 2011  http://www.thelocal.de/politics/20110105-32243.html

It is somewhat ironic that the UN Security Council was basically put in place to deal with Germany, and now it is a temporary member of that council.  This will likely give Germany more say in international military matters.  And even once it is off, it will likely help lobby for stronger European representation on that council.

Most do not realize the potential danger of sharing spy satellite technology with Germany.  Under such arrangements, Germany will be better able to know what the Americans know and be able to use this information to its advantage.  The USA is losing even its technological advantages, and is doing so voluntarily.  This is likely to prove to be a mistake that the USA is making.

Speaking of Germany, the following news item was of prophetic interest:

Archbishop: Church must proselytize Germany

Rocked by scandal and seeing its flock shrink, the Catholic Church should actively begin proselytizing in Germany, according to the Archbishop of Munich Cardinal Reinhard Marx.

The Local – Jan 1, 2011  http://www.thelocal.de/society/20110101-32155.html

Catholics may be surprised to learn that the conversion of Germany is in at least one of their prophecies for the end time rise of the “Great Monarch”, the time of the King of the North.  Notice the following:

Old English Prophecy: In Germany begins a dance,  Which passes through Italy, Spain, and France, But England shall pay the piper. (Dupont, Catholic Prophecy, pp. 21-22)

Blessed Joannes Amadeus de Sylva (died 1482): Germany and Spain will unite under a great prince…After much slaughtering, the other nations will be forced to come into this union. There is no hope for the unbelievers until all of Germany is converted; then all will happen quickly…the time will be prolonged until all countries unite under the Great Ruler. After this union, mass conversions will take place… (Connor, Prophecy for Today, p. 34).

The above suggests that something starts in Germany that goes into other parts of Europe, but that England will suffer (this is consistent with biblical prophecy).

Notice that the 15^th century Catholic prophecy that foretells a time when a “great prince” will rise up. “All Germany” will apparently convert to the ecumenical religion, and then massive conversions in “all countries” “will happen quickly” under the “Great Ruler”.

The evangelical intent of the Catholic Cardinal may be related to that prophecy.

But whether it is or not, Germany seems to be positioning itself to fulfill various prophecies.  And its military influence is expected to increase, as likely, its future religious influence.

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”?
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? What MUST happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Could He Become “the Beast”? What makes the German Defense Minister a candidate?
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.

Jerusalem

COGwriter

Notice a report today on the European Union’s position on Jerusalem:

EU diplomats say East Jerusalem should be treated as Palestinian capital

EU consuls to Israel, Palestinian Authority recommend boycotting Israeli products from East Jerusalem, refuse to visit gov’t offices beyond the green line.

Haaretz – Jan 10, 2011

East Jerusalem should be treated as the capital of the Palestinian state, according to a report compiled by the heads of European diplomatic missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah. The report includes several other unprecedented recommendations to the European Union regarding its attitude toward East Jerusalem.

The European diplomats, mainly consuls, also recommend that EU officials and politicians refuse to visit Israeli government offices that are located beyond the Green Line and that they decline any Israeli security in the Old City and elsewhere in East Jerusalem…

The report further recommends that the European Union “encourage Arab countries to acknowledge the multicultural dimension of Jerusalem, including its Jewish and Christian heritage.”  http://www.haaretz.com/print-edition/news/eu-diplomats-say-east-jerusalem-should-be-treated-as-palestinian-capital-1.336109

This EU position on Jerusalem seems to be consistent with the following biblical prophecy:

2 For I will gather all the nations to battle against Jerusalem;
The city shall be taken,
The houses rifled,
And the women ravished.
Half of the city shall go into captivity,
But the remnant of the people shall not be cut off from the city.  (Zechariah 14:2, NKJV)

If half the city is Jewish and the other half not, then there would be a reason for only one half the city to go into captivity.

Perhaps I should add that the idea that Jerusalem needs to be partially “Christian” is consistent with certain “Catholic prophecies”–many  of which are mirror images of biblical ones (see Catholic Prophecies: Do They Mirror, Highlight, or Contradict Biblical Prophecies?)

World events continue to align with Bible prophecy.

To learn more about what will happen to the descendants of Israel, please check out the following articles:

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?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?

Laodicea has many ineffective structures

COGwriter

Church of God, a Worldwide Association (COGWA, a recent UCG break-away group) reported the following:

January 8, 2011 – Approximately 400 people assembled in the ballroom of the Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky, for the Sabbath service in connection with the organizing conference of the Church of God, a Worldwide Association. Thousands more were connected via webcasts and phone lines…

Richard Pinelli spoke on the work of Elijah that will occur prior to the return of Jesus Christ…

The sound crew in Louisville reported that there were 1,180 web connections and 107 phone connections to the service by congregations and members around the world. Additionally, there were 346 web connections to the Spanish translation of the service.

The Church of God, a Worldwide Association congregation in Houston, Texas, also had 2,476 connecting to its website as it rebroadcasted the Louisville service. Some people may have connected to view it a second time. Houston’s reported breakdown included these numbers of connections and locations: U.S.-2076; Canada-99; Chile-50; Mexico-37; Guatemala-22; Bahamas-19; United Kingdom-15; Singapore-13; Mauritius-13; Philippines-12; Peru-12; Columbia-11; Barbados-11; South Africa-9; Indonesia-7; El Salvador-7; Argentina-7; Germany-5; Sweden-4; New Zealand-4; Bolivia-4; Venezuela-2; Singapore-2; Ecuador-2; Dominica-2; Thailand-1; Trinidad and Tobago-1; Netherlands-1; France-1; Dominican Republic-1; Cayman Islands-1.

I would have reported about this earlier, but spent all morning, day, and much of the night traveling home from Costa Rica yesterday.  Richard Pinelli’s choice of the Elijah subject was unusual given UCG’s historical lack of focus on that subject.  It will probably take several months to know how many intend to affiliate with COGWA instead of UCG.

Here is something that COGWA posted later today, about yesterday’s conference:

January 9, 2011 – The organizing conference of the Church of God, a Worldwide Association was opened at 1:00 p.m. by Mike Hanisko, president of the temporary Board of Directors…

Clyde Kilough then gave an opening address in which he responded to a question that he had been asked. Were ministers just jumping on the bandwagon with those who were exiting our previous organization? Considering that those who recently resigned willingly accepted unemployment, a loss of benefits, etc., he noted that it seems unlikely that what transpired was capricious in nature…

Todd Carey then began a presentation on ethics…

The next presentation was by Jon Pinelli on proposed church names. There were 411 names suggested. After considering the names in terms of identity, mission and legal availability, five potential names were selected: “Covenant Church of God,” Church of God, Ambassadors for Christ,” “Church of God, a Worldwide Association,” “Faithful Church of God” and “Church of God, a Christian Association.” Balloting to select one of these five names will take place on Monday afternoon.

Both Mr. Pinelli and Mr. Kilough noted that the choice of a church name is often intimately personal…

Dave Baker then spoke on interim governance—noting that it was not the intention of this committee to set a precedent for what would be chosen for a long term government, nor how choices would be made, process-wise.

The AC (“Abigail Cartwright”) site reported one more UCG elder loss, bringing its list to 150 ministers and elders that UCG lost in this crisis:

Mr. Eriz Dizon (Elder, Northern Luzon, Philippines) January 9, 2011, resigned from UCG ministry

As I have repeatedly stated, I do not believe that the governmental structure of UCG ever would be effective in proclaiming the gospel to fulfill Matthew 24:14–nor do I believe that those who broke off and will become part of COGWA or other such groups will as well.

If you are or were part of UCG and are confused about what to do, please pray, fast, and study the Bible about this. Decide if you wish to follow the lukewarm or those that Jesus Christ has truly been using to do the work–those who have had the same basic governing principles for over 40 years.

It is my view that those affected by this crisis who wish to support a more effective gospel-proclaiming organization will consider checking out LCG, as it has stood for proper church governance and the work since its foundation (which preceded its formation). It’s decision time for those who have been affiliated with UCG. Most of those part of the COGWA and UCG leadership have already demonstrated, to me at least, that neither group intends to be Philadelphian.

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.
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation 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?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Those Laodiceans in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand will likely be affected sooner by the coming Great Tribulation than the Laodiceans in other lands.

COGwriter

When I wrote the book , 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect, my primary focus was on what would likely happen during the years 2012 through 2020.  But of course, for many of the events to occur, other world events need to align themselves for them to come to pass.  So far this year, I have reported about world events that seem to be supportive of 10 of the predictions that the book discusses.

And today, with the last intended such post for a while, I would like to discuss three more (numbered 11-13).

11. 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect explains that the leadership of the Orthodox Church will ultimately support a council to lure most Eastern Orthodox into unity with the Church of Rome (see Chapter 10).

“Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople’s newest encyclical encourages dialogue between the Orthodox Church and other Christian churches and laments those who are ‘unacceptably fanatical’ in challenging such dialogue” (Patriarch of Constantinople’s new encyclical defends Catholic-Orthodox dialogue.  CAN, February 20, 2010.  http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/patriarch_of_constantinoples_new_encyclical_defends_catholic-orthodox_dialogue/).

Although just a few days prior to his elevation to become the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox, Bishop Kirill opposed ecumenical discussions with Rome (Likely Moscow patriarch stresses differences with Catholic belief.  CAN, January 23, 2009.  http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/likely_moscow_patriarch_stresses_differences_with_catholic_belief/), even he has changed since 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect was released (Cooper R.  Russian Orthodox and Catholic church may end 950-year rift.  Telegraph, November 13, 2009. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/expat/expatnews/6553583/Russian-Orthodox-and-Catholic-church-may-end-950-year-rift.html).

“Benedict XVI says that dialogue between Catholics and Orthodox is at a “crucial point” and invited heartfelt prayer to the Holy Spirit for progress to continue.  The Pope said this today when he addressed members of a delegation from Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I” (Pope Praises Orthodox Commitment to Unity.  Zenit, June 28, 2010. http://www.zenit.org/article-29736?l=english).

Orthodox leaders are becoming more and more supportive of the idea of unity/councils with Rome.

12. 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect warns that there will likely be gaps in the U.S. G.P.S. system and this may require the U.S. to rely on the upcoming European Galileo system (essentially an upgraded and European developed version of G.P.S) to meet that gap (see Chapter 5).

The U.S. Air Force disputed the idea of gaps in military satellite communications (Air Force Official Disputes GAO Report on Projected GPS Failure.  Satellite Today, May 26, 2009. http://www.viasatellite.com/military/headlines/Air-Force-Official-Disputes-GAO-Report-on-Projected-GPS-Failure_31100.html), when that portion of the book was written.

But, on November 10, 2009, Aviation Week reported that the leader of U.S. Strategic Command, Air Force Gen. Kevin Chilton, “says so few satellites are in queue now for launch for critical missions–such as weather observation satcom or ballistic missile warning–that there is a risk of service gaps that could impede the military’s ability to do its job” (Butler A.  U.S. Satellite Coverage Gaps Loom.  Aviation Week,  November 10, 2009.  http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/RISK111009.xml&headline=U.S.%20Satellite%20Coverage%20Gaps%20Loom).

Furthermore, because of concerns about China, Reuters reported on February 4, 2010, “The U.S. Defense Department is linking its Global Positioning System with Europe’s Galileo, another space-based global navigation satellite system. GPS will feature a new military signal called M-code to boost anti-jamming, facilitate secure access and increase the local signal strength.” (Wolf J. US, wary of China, mulls satellite substitutes.  Reuters, February 4, 2010. http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN0411054720100205).  This linking will essentially guarantee that the USA will have a portion of their military response ability controlled by the Europeans.  Galileo initially had critics as there were “early objections from the Americans who thought a rival system to GPS might be used to attack its armed forces” (Amos J. EU awards Galileo satellite-navigation contracts.  BBC, Jan 7, 2010. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8442090.stm).

The “brain” of Galileo was shipped to Rome on April 26, 2010 (First EU Navigation Satellite Payload Shipped.  Red Orbit, 26 April 2010. http://www.redorbit.com/news/space/1855166/first_eu_
navigation_satellite_payload_shipped/ ).

The Wall Street Journal reported on June 28, 2010 that the Obama Administration hopes to persuade the American people that having to rely on Europe’s Galileo “to augment” for part of our GPS needs is in the interest of global cooperation (Pasztor A.  New Space Policy Calls for Global Cooperation.  Wall Street Journal, June 28, 2010 http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704212804575332420948502224.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_MIDDLTopStories).  This became official on July 30, 2010 (U.S. and the EU to collaborate on usage of Global Navigation Satellite Systems.  BNO News, July 31, 2010. http://wireupdate.com/local/u-s-and-the-eu-to-collaborate-on-usage-of-global-navigation-satellite-systems/).

The problems with GPS combined with Galileo and the fact that the first non-American, French General became one of the two “Supreme Commanders” for NATO in September, 2009 (French General Takes Over Key NATO Command In U.S.  RTT News, September 10, 2009. http://www.rttnews.com/ArticleView.aspx?Id=1062869; http://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/topics_50114.htm) means that the Europeans will have much more control over the military over the USA than most have imagined.

13. 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect warns that there may be civil unrest in Europe (see Chapters 5 & 16).

USA Today reported on what have been called “anti-austerity protests” that swept across Europe in late September 2010 (Anti-austerity protests sweep across Europe.  USA Today, September 30, 2010.  http://www.usatoday.com/money/world/2010-09-29-europe-austerity-protests_N.htm).

Civil unrest and violent protests in France in October 2010 led to hundreds being arrested (France crippled by continuing strikes as protests against pension reforms turn violent.  Daily Mail, October 19, 2010. http://news1.capitalbay.com/news/france_crippled_by_continuing_strikes.html).  “Bombs were sent to a number of embassies in the Greek capital Athens on” November 2, 2010 by Greek protestors (Heinrich M, Apps P. Instant View: Bomb incidents in Greece. Reuters, November 2, 2010. http://www.reuters.com/article/
idUSTRE6A12ND2010110 2).

Yet, these are just preliminary forms of civil unrest as more major civil unrest in Europe likely to result in the rise of the prophesied Great Monarch/King of the North.

14. 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect warns (through quoting Habakkuk 2:7) that foreign creditors “will rise up suddenly” against the USA (see Chapter 8).

On November 8, German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schäuble publicly warned, “The United States lived on borrowed money for too long” (Interview With German Finance Minister Schäuble: ‘The US Has Lived on Borrowed Money for Too Long’.  Spiegel, November 8, 2010.  http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/0,1518,727801,00.html).

On November 9, 2010, a major Chinese rating service dropped the credit rating of the bonds of the U.S. Treasury (Fellman J, Xie Y.  China’s Dagong Cuts U.S. Credit Rating to A+ on Fed’s Quantitative Easing Bloomberg, November 9, 2010. http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-11-09/china-s-dagong-downgrades-u-s-to-a-on-quantitative-easing-xinhua-says.html).

And while foreign creditors have not fulfilled the entire prediction in Habakkuk 2 yet (they have not risen up suddenly with the intent to take over), they have taken steps that indicate that they will fulfill it, and this will not be good for the United States.

Concluding Comments

Major world sources reported (though have often not emphasized) many of these significant events.  Yet, most of the public has NOT learned how these events align with end time prophecies and predictions.  But none of these events should have been a surprise for those who have read and understood 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect.

Prophecies are coming to pass and the groundwork is being shown in significant world events.  Those who consider themselves Christians should heed Jesus’ and the Apostle Paul’s admonitions to watch world events (Mark 13:33-36; 1 Thessalonians 5:3-6).  Christians and non-Christians should ponder that since some predicted events are coming to pass, that it is highly likely that others will as well.

If world prophecies made over the past 3,000 years are coming to pass, perhaps all may wish to understand them and the aligning world events.  Those who know can better help themselves and their loved ones.

If you have not already done so, you should consider acquiring the book, 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect.  It is available in several languages, as well as through Kindle, Amazon, and Barnes&Noble.com.

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.
2012 y el surgimiento de la secta secreta 2012 libro del Dr. Thiel en Español.
2012 und das Auftreten der geheimen Sekte (German Edition) 2012 Buch von Dr. Thiel in deutscher Sprache.
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?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Is the German Defense Minister one to watch? What do Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecies suggest?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?

Banner at 2007 Feast of Tabernacles in Tobago

COGwriter

The Living Church of God has announced additional sites for the Feast of Tabernacles (a major Fall pilgrimage) in 2011:

International Feast Sites

Below is the list of the 2011 International Feast sites finalized as of this writing (this list is not all-inclusive, as other sites are still being firmed up).  We will soon be posting more detailed information about 2011 registration.

Australia—Victor Harbor                                           Barbados—Christ Church

Canada—Penticton                                                     Canada—Orford

Canada—Eastern Canada                                           Guatemala—Antigua

Guyana—Georgetown                                                Haiti—Port-au-Prince

Indonesia—Batu                                                         Jamaica—Montego Bay

Kenya—Isibania                                                         Malaysia—Langkawi

Martinique—Sainte-Luce                                           New Zealand—Nelson

Nigeria—Lagos                                                           Papua New Guinea

Philippines—Baguio City                                           Philippines—Davao City

Philippines—Don Carlos                                            Philippines—Maranding

Sri Lanka—Bentota                                                    South Africa—Stillbai

Trinidad and Tobago—Crown Point                          United Kingdom—Buxton

Vanuatu—Orap

It previously announced the following USA sites a last month:

2011 USA Feast Sites Set!

As we pass the shortest day of the year in this part of the world, we are well on our way to planning for the Feast of Tabernacles, 2011! United States Feast sites have been selected and contracts have been signed (international sites are still being finalized). The Feast sites in the United States in 2011 will be:

Branson, MO

Chattanooga, TN

Cobleskill, NY

Glenwood Springs, CO

New Braunfels, TX

Newport, OR

Panama City, FL

Sonora, CA

Wisconsin Dells, WI

Listen to the World Ahead and check the MyLCG website (www.cogl.org) for more updates in coming weeks! – Festival Office

There will probably also be sites, as there were in previous years, in places such as India, Myanmar, Peru, Columbia Chile, Argentina, Brazil, and possibly Thailand and elsewhere. Somewhere between 40 to 50 (and perhaps more!) sites are expected. For detailed information about some of what was available in 2010, please see the article LCG 2010 Feast of Tabernacles’ Information.

Speaking of 2010, here is what LCG reported about that Feast of Tabernacles:

Our final Feast of Tabernacles attendance figures show that more than 8,000 people attended the Feast at 46 sites in 31 countries. The attendance at sites in the USA increased by 7.5% over last year, and the attendance at international sites increased by 3.6%. This amounts to a 5.7% increase worldwide, which is exciting to see. (Living Church of God World Ahead, Weekly Update, October 21, 2010)

LCG had growth in its attendance in 2010 and likely will also in 2011.

The first service for the Feast of Tabernacles would be after sunset on the 12th of October and the last service normally would be on the afternoon of the 20th of October in 2011.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians? Is this pilgrimage holy day still valid? Does it teach anything relevant for today’s Christians?
LCG 2010 Feast of Tabernacles’ Information Here is information on many Feast of Tabernacles locations for this year. Details are expected to be added as they become available.
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.
Did Early Christians Observe the Fall Holy Days? Did they? Did Jesus? Should you?
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.

COGwriter

While many are familiar with the fact that the group calling itself “Jehovah’s Witnesses” knocks on doors, relatively few seem to understand how the JWs explain Daniel 11 and the Kings of the North and South.  Well like many groups, they get some parts right, but overlook several other parts.

In its booklet titled Pay Attention to Daniel’s Prophecy! the Jehovah’s Witnesses correctly teach,

The designations “the king of the north and “the king of the south” refer to kings north and south of Daniel’s people, who were freed from Babylonian captivity and restored to the land of Judah (p. 218).

However, they do not seem to keep that belief when it comes to explaining about them (at least not for the “King of the South”).

Regarding the “king of the north” the Jehovah’s Witnesses incorrectly teach that it was Germany from the late nineteenth century until in World War II (pp. 256-267) fulfilling Daniel 11:27-31a (this time period was not, however, the final end-time fulfillment of these verses in Daniel). Then they teach it became the Communist Soviet Block until around 1993 (pp. 275-280), fulfilling Daniel 11:31b-43 (we in the Living Church of God would contend that the Communist block did not fulfill these prophecies).

The JWs actually teach that the defeat in Vietnam was part of the result of the king of the north fulfilling Daniel 11:42,43. Notice:

(Daniel 11:42-43) Even the king of the south, “Egypt,” did not escape the effects of the expansionist policies of the king of the north. For example, the king of the south suffered a notable defeat in Vietnam (pp. 278-280).

The above “Egypt” is not, according to the Jehovah’s Witnesses the actual nation of Egypt but what they call the “Anglo-American World Power” (p. 247). Those of us in the LCG believe that the term “Egypt” means the area occupied by the current nation of Egypt. Verses 40-43 of Daniel 11 are talking about more than a nation giving up, they show that the King of the South is defeated and that it is itself overwhelmed.

But since the USA and UK are NOT south of Palestine/Israel, the JWs seem to have a problem with geography.

Currently, the Jehovah’s Witnesses teach that they do not know who the final king of the north will be.  In addition to my asking one of them who came to our door once, in writing they teach:

Who will be this king when Daniel 11:44, 45 is fulfilled? Will he be part of the former Soviet Union? Or will he change identity completely, as he has done a number of times before? Will the development of nuclear weapons by additional nations result in a new arms race and have a bearing on the identity of the king of the north? Only time will provide answers to these questions. We are wise not to speculate (p. 281).

The above differs greatly from LCG teachings. Essentially like Herbert W. Armstrong did, LCG teaches that Daniel 11 will have final fulfillment at the time of the end from Daniel 11:31, but probably prior (like vs. 21 or 27) as the final time of the end, the “appointed time”, begins no later than Daniel 11:29. LCG teaches that the king of the north is also the same power as the feet of the image in Daniel 2 (more information is in the articles Who is the King of the North and Europa and the Beast of Revelation).

Notice what else the Jehovah’s Witnesses teach in Pay Attention to Daniel’s Prophecy!:

When World War I broke out in 1914, Egypt belonged to Turkey…Britain…declared Turkey a British protectorate. Gradually forming close ties, Britain and the United States of America became the Anglo-American World Power. Together, they came into position of the king of the south (p.247).

This causes the Jehovah’s Witnesses several problems as they indicate with the image of Daniel 2 that the Anglo-American World Power formed over 100 years prior to WWI, plus the fact that since Britain and the USA no longer control Egypt, that they are not south of Judah (actually, all of Britain and the USA, with the exception of the Falkland Islands and some minor territories, are north of Judah).

A chart that the book Pay Attention to Daniel’s Prophecy! has on page 284 shows that the Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that “Anglo-American World Power” became the “king of the south” around WWI, were also the king of the south in WWII, were also the king of the south during the time of the “cold war”, and will be at the final end.

In addition, unlike the LCG, the Jehovah’s Witnesses teach:

Similarly, the king of the south is not destroyed by the king of the north (p. 285).

But the Bible is clear that the king of the south is destroyed by the king of the north in Daniel 11:40-43.

Sadly, the misunderstanding of prophecy that many groups (like the Jehovah’s Witnesses and even many who are affiliated with some of the Churches of God) will deceive them about end-time events.

Articles of related interest may include:

Similarities and Differences Between the Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Living Church of God Both groups claim to represent the original Christian faith. Do you know much about them? Both groups have some interesting similarities, but many major differences. Would you like information on how to deal with Jehovah’s Witnesses?
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 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?
Is There an Islamic Antichrist?Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.

Dr. Douglas Winnail

COGwriter

In his update read earlier today, LCG’s Dr. D. Winnail had the following:

Sadly, within the Church of God community, division and discord have erupted again. Currently, the United Church of God is experiencing a traumatic split that will impact thousands of brethren. Please pray that God will guide His people at this critical time to see the importance of working together to fulfill the commission to preach the Gospel, warn the world and prepare a people to serve with Jesus Christ in the soon-coming Kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:10-13 & Ephesians 4:1-6). Mr. Meredith is sending out a special letter about these critical events and is announcing a Church fast for unity on Saturday, January 29.

We in LCG tend to believe that now is the time for those who have been affected by the UCG crisis and other circumstances to truly consider where they have been and where they should go.

BTW, since my last listing, UCG apparently lost two more international ministers:

Mr. Norman Julag-ay (Local Elder, Bacolod, Philippines) January 7, 2010, resigned from UCG ministry

Mr. Florante Siopan (Pastor, Visayas, Philippines), January 3, 2011, resigned from UCG ministry

Losses seem to be continuing.  The list I looked a few moments ago had 149 elders/ministers on it who have left or were put out of UCG.  I also just noticed that UCG only produced 339,000 copies of its flagship magazine, the Good News.  LCG produces about 330,000 of its Tomorrow’s World magazine.  Once the financial impacts of the ministerial losses hits UCG, it appears that LCG will be producing more magazines.  Interestingly, UCG has had a downward trend for magazine production for some time, including since it went on WGN in the summer of 2010.

As I have repeatedly stated, I do not believe that the governmental structure of UCG ever would be effective in proclaiming the gospel to fulfill Matthew 24:14–nor do I believe that those who broke off and will become part of COGWA or other such groups will as well.  They can try to act otherwise, but the past 15 plus years has shown that most (though not all) of the UCG leadership was simply not committed very much to that goal.

If you are or were part of UCG and are confused about what to do, please pray, fast, and study the Bible about this. Decide if you wish to follow the lukewarm or those that Jesus Christ has truly been using to do the work–those who have had the same basic governing principles for over 40 years.

It is my view that those affected by this crisis who wish to support a more effective gospel-proclaiming organization will consider checking out LCG, as it has stood for proper church governance and the work since its foundation (which preceded its formation). It’s decision time for those who have been affiliated with UCG.

No, LCG is not perfect (nor am I), but I believe that its fruits, telecast results, financial emphasis, and attempts at being faithful to doctrine demonstrate that it best represents the remnant of the Philadelphia portion of the COG held over into this Laodicean time.  Please, carefully consider this and check it out for yourself if you are not sure.

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?
this biblically correct?
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.
Samaritans: Old and New Who were the Samaritans? Do the represent true Christianity or something else?
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 18 Restored Truths: Do You Know What the First Changes the Tkach Administration Made? Some have said healing, others other subjects, but probably the first change had to do with eliminating being part of the Philadelphia era. This article documents what those changes were and compares the Tkach list of restored truths to Herbert W. Armstrong’s list of restored truths. It contains many quotes from Herbert W. Armstrong.
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 essentially the Living Church of God.
The Laodicean Church Era has been predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. These are non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG.

Laodicea has many ineffective structures

COGwriter

In an email it sent out today, ICG’s Mark Armstrong wrote the following:

As mentioned in the monthly letter, we’ve had no choice but to curtail some of our television outlets temporarily. We’d hoped it wouldn’t be necessary, but the realities of the national economic situation have taken a toll across the board.

For a group that does not believe and teach “church eras”, ICG has historically tended to reach more on television than most of the other non-Philadelphian COGs.  But apparently it is having enough economic problems that this is being affected.

Basically, ICG tries to combine current news items with video clips of the late Garner Ted Armstrong for its telecast.  And while I have tended to find that a bit creepy, it has seemed to work somewhat for ICG.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Intercontinental Church of God ICG was Garner Ted Armstrong’s last group; it is now led by Mark Armstrong.
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?
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.