Church of God News

COGwriter

UCG’s Treasurer Aaron Dean just reported the following:

This year has been difficult to try to predict, as historical numbers provide little value for projections of income and expenses. I am sure most of us feel a bit like Gideon as his numbers were whittled down by God. Spiritually, in faith, you know it will work—but physically and emotionally, you wonder how.When times are good, it is easy to convince yourself that you have faith in God, when in reality it is often faith in money. When money becomes scarce, you find that your faith is tested and you learn that maybe you didn’t have the faith you thought you did. Scarcity produces faith, just as patience does. I have often asked, If God did things the way I would like, would it even be a work of faith? If I always knew the money was there because of big bank accounts, my faith would perhaps become a buzzword and not a reality.

God saw to it that the United Church of God has been given a financially strong position to start our rebuilding process. Proverbs tells us the wise look ahead to prepare for the future. Like Gideon, I expect we will do more with less. We have to see this as an opportunity to trust God.

I am encouraged by the reports of many new people asking to come to church services. But since faith without works is dead, we do need to be diligent in cutting our expenses, while not harming our service to members or minimizing our focus on preaching the gospel. God will provide, but we still have to do our part in being stewards with His money.

While I would have liked to see actual figures and percentages (and those will come out later, if UCG’s past practices are continued), it has been obvious that UCG’s income would be down as it seems to have lost about 1/3 of its membership to COGWA (it also has lost others that are either independent or who went elsewhere).  As far as who saw to it that UCG had a financially strong position, I will simply state that UCG accumulated significant financial reserves over the years by not spending all of what it received, hence that should provide it with a financial cushion for a while.

As I reported earlier UCG has admitted to losing 53% of its salaried USA ministry from this crisis, so it has been hit pretty hard (United News Out, Ministers Added).  So, it also has had some cost savings at the same time.  And now seems to be looking at other areas to try to save.

This has been tough for those who are or were in UCG.

If you are or were part of UCG and are confused about what to do, please pray, fast, and study the Bible about this.

Ask yourself what are the true priorities that the Bible indicates that the church most faithful to the words of Jesus would do and act appropriately.

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.
Concerns about Church of God, a Worldwide Association This seems to be the largest group that came out of the United Church of God. Here is some history and concerns about it.
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?

COGwriter

Saudi Arabia has made it clear that it is upset with Barack Obama and the USA’s handling of the crisis in Egypt:

Saudis told Obama to back Mubarak

The Times, UK – Feb 10, 2011

Saudi Arabia has threatened to prop up President Mubarak if the White House tries to force a swift change of regime in Egypt.

In a testy personal telephone call on January 29, King Abdullah told President Obama not to humiliate Mr Mubarak and warned that he would step in to bankroll Egypt if the US withdrew its aid programme, worth $1.5 billion annually.

America’s closest ally in the Gulf made clear that the Egyptian President must be allowed to stay on to oversee the transition towards peaceful democracy and then leave with dignity. “Mubarak and King Abdullah are not just allies, they are close friends, and the King is not about to see his friend cast aside and humiliated,” a senior source in the Saudi capital told The Times.

Two sources confirmed details of the King’s call, made four days after the people of Egypt took to the streets…

Full article at: http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/

Saudis Tell Obama Not to Humiliate Mubarak

FOX News –

WASHINGTON — Saudi Arabia threatened to prop up President Hosni Mubarak if the White House tries to force a swift change of regime in Egypt, The Times of London reported Thursday…

The tough line from Riyadh is driven by concern that Western governments were too eager to shove aside Mubarak when the uprising began, without proper consideration of what should follow him. http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/02/09/source-saudis-tell-obama-humiliate-mubarak/

The Saudis are essentially in a state of shock about how quickly the Obama Administration stopped supporting a long-time USA ally.

Moves like those that the Obama Administration have taken are sending a signal to the world that the USA is a “fair weather friend” and will betray friends if politics suggest so.

This type of action will drive allies away from the USA.  The call by the Saudi King suggests to me that he is now looking at his other options.  Options such as cooperating more with other Islamic nations and even the Europeans (cf. Daniel 11:27; Psalm 83:6-8).  And this will not be good for the USA (Daniel 11:39).

In the meantime, strikes in Egypt seem to be aimed at knocking down the Egyptian regime:

Workers’ strikes lend vigor to Egypt’s demonstrations

By the CNN Wire Staff

February 10, 2011

Cairo, Egypt (CNN) — New pressure mounted Thursday on the embattled Egyptian regime as thousands of workers in vital industries walked off their jobs in a show of solidarity with protesters demanding change.

Protesting lawyers toppled barricades at Cairo’s Abdeen Palace, the former home of Egypt’s monarchy and a symbol of power. Armed police, who had disappeared from the streets of Cairo as the uprising gained momentum, waited behind metal fences…

Thursday’s demonstrations unfolded with vigor despite escalating fears of a government crackdown. Key government officials have sought to portray an immediate departure for Mubarak as a recipe for absolute mayhem and warned of military intervention.

“Do we want the armed forces to assume the responsibility of stabilizing the nation through imposing martial law and the army in the streets?” Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit said on PBS’ “NewsHour” Wednesday.

“For the army to rule, to step in, to put its friends on the scene, that would be a very dangerous possibility,” he said.  http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/02/10/egypt.protests/

World leaders watch and wait as events unfold in Egypt

CNN International – Nic Robertson, Kevin Flower – ‎10 February 2011

By the CNN Wire Staff Cairo, Egypt (CNN) — Government leaders around the world watched events unfold in Egypt Thursday amid reports that embattled President Hosni Mubarak could step down from power.

10 February 2011 Last updated at 16:56 ET: Egypt’s Mubarak refuses to quit

Egypt’s President Hosni Mubarak has said he will stay in office and transfer all power only after September’s presidential election.

All of this is likely to end up with an interim government that ultimately will be replaced by some type of Islamic government that will ultimately support a pan-Arabic leader.  The coming King of the South, apparently referred to as the Imam Mahdi and/or Caliph in various Muslim writings, is getting closer to rising up.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Prophecies of Barack Obama? This article has eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. It includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article at the COGwriter website on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
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 since he is to be the USA president?
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?
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? What will happen to the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Arabic Nazarenes May Have Kept Original Christian Practices Were their faithful Arabs who held to original Christianity?
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 and Islamic 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? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?

COGwriter

Interestingly, the primarily Islamic nation of Malaysia is cracking down on Valentine’s Day sins:

Malaysian States Crack Down on Valentine’s Day

TIME – Feb 9, 2011  excerpts…

A handful of Malaysian states plan to carry out “immorality checks” on February 14 to ensure that the country’s lovers don’t get carried away.

Nasrudin Hasan Tantawi, head of the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) youth wing, announced Wednesday that serious measures would be taken to quell “immoral acts” during the annual Western celebration of affection. The crackdown is part of a PAS campaign to promote sin-free living, and will feature a series of searches by local authorities and the police and distribution of pamphlets on elements of Muslim morality.

Participating are those four states—Kedah, Penang, Kelantan and Selangor—that are controlled by an opposition coalition of which PAS is a member. “We have identified spots in these states which are used by lovers and we are deploying local religious department officials as well as party members to stop such sinful acts as casual sex, which violates Islam,” Nasrudin told the AFP.   http://newsfeed.time.com/2011/02/09/moral-amour-malaysian-states-crack-down-on-valentine%E2%80%99s-day/

Move on Valentine’s Day ‘sins’

Malaysia Star – Feb 8, 2011  excerpts…

PAS Youth chief Nasrudin Hasan Tantawi said the Kedah, Kelantan and Selangor governments have directed all local authorities to work closely with police and Rela in order to carry out operations to check immoral activities during Valentine’s Day...He said the National Fatwa Council forbids Muslims from celebrating Valentine’s Day because of elements of Christianity and sin.

“We are not against love. We are merely raising awareness on self-dignity and moral values,” he said.

In Penang, PAS youth is working closely with the Islamic Religious Department to check immoral activities among Muslims, he said.

Nasrudin added that PAS youth in every state had also been directed to launch campaigns to promote sin-free lifestyle.

“We have identified favourite spots in every state where lovebirds mingle.

“We are deploying our members to preach and to distribute pamphlets promoting healthy sin-free lifestyle.   http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/2/9/nation/8024821&sec=nation also: http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5j6M0sZ21MDSUVipeFjbBXxnD4BRQ?docId=CNG.b0bd9634a7d95d37ca7220a20828e2b0.5d1

Of course, Valentine’s Day is NOT a real Christian holiday and does have its basis in sinful pagan practices.

Jesus did not observe Valentine’s Day or anything close to it.

Valentine’s Day is not a biblical holiday.

It is essentially based upon lawlessness and does not edify Christ. 12 years ago, an article in Christianity Today stated:

There are more tales of the “origins” of Valentine’s Day than arrows in Cupid’s quiver. As expected, most have something to do with pagan ritual (pretty much every holiday—from Christmas to Mother’s Day—has something to do with pagan ritual). Four centuries before Christ, Romans had a day called Lupercalia. Without going too much into it, I’ll sum it up as a sexual lottery. Pull names out of a box at random and couple with a young member of the opposite sex. After a year, you get to pick another name (Olsen T. Then Again Maybe Don’t Be My Valentine. Christianity Today. February 12, 1999).

The modern practice of giving cards to ask/tell someone to “be my Valentine” seems to be a holdover from the ancient sexual lottery.

Christians who may be tempted to compromise need to ask themselves if the origins of Valentine’s Day are biblical or pagan.

Notice what the Roman Catholics teach,

The roots of St. Valentine’s Day lie in the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, which was celebrated on Feb. 15. For 800 years the Romans had dedicated this day to the god Lupercus. On Lupercalia, a young man would draw the name of a young woman in a lottery and would then keep the woman as a sexual companion for the year (The Origins of St. Valentine’s Day. http://www.americancatholic.org/Features/ValentinesDay/, January 31, 2004).

It is of interest to note that the same Catholic source states,

The Catholic Church no longer officially honors St. Valentine, but the holiday has both Roman and Catholic roots.

It is good that the Church of Rome no longer officially honors Valentine or the holiday.

Adopting Pagan Holidays Supports Islamic Positions Against What They Consider to be Christianity!

Look at some of what the Muslims say about Valentine’s Day,

Celebrating the Valentine Day is not permissible because: Firstly, it is an innovated holiday that has no basis in the Sharee`ah…Christians were aware of the Pagan roots of Valentine’s Day. The way the Christians adopted St. Valentine’s Day should be a lesson for Muslims. In fact, the failure to fully separate Valentine’s Day from its pagan roots explains why Islamic scholars and a number of Muslims avoid adopting traditions of non-Muslims, even though they could possibly be Islamicized…We should avoid anything associated with pagan immoral practices – We do not need to honour or celebrate the death of a Christian “saint” – Islam does not encourage flirting or suggestions of romantic relationships before marriage – Love between families, friends and married people does not need to be celebrated on a day with such un-Islamic origins (Ruling on Celebrating Valentine’s Day. http://www.contactpakistan.com/news/news144.htm, January 31, 2004).

In other words, Valentine’s Day causes the name of Christ (through the term ‘Christianity’) to be blasphemed among the Gentiles (Romans 2:24; Isaiah 52:5)!

Even the Muslims can see that the hypocrisy in this.

How does this pagan holiday help get the true gospel out?

It does not.

And that is the point.

None who profess Christ should observe this February “holiday”–it simply is not a Christian holiday. It began as a sexual lottery and still has sexual ramifications, even in the 21st century.

For more information, please consider studying the following articles:

Valentine’s Day: Its Real Origins Christianity Today suggests that Valentine’s Day is good for Christians to observe. Is this true?
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.
Are the Ten Commandment Still in Effect? This article quotes the ten commandments and combines some of the previous articles into one article about the ten commandments. The commandments are shown at Mount Sinai, before Mount Sinai, in the teachings of Jesus, after the crucifixion, and in the teachings of Paul. It addresses the most common “traditions of men” regarding them as well.
Were the Pharisees Condemned for Keeping the Law or Reasoning Around it? Many believe that the Pharisees were condemned for keeping the law, but what does your Bible say? If they were not condemned for that, what were they condemned for?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?
Was the Commandment to Love the Only Command? Some have stated that John’s writings teach this, but is that what the Bible really says?
The Ten Commandments and the Early Church Did Jesus and the Early Church keep the ten commandments? What order were they in? Here are quotes from the Bible and early writings.
The History of Early Christianity Are you aware that what most people believe is not what truly happened to the true Christian church? Do you know where the early church was based? Do you know what were the doctrines of the early church? Is your faith really based upon the truth or compromise?

Jerusalem

COGwriter

NATO seems to be willing  to support a “peace plan” that will put its troops in the area sometimes known as Palestine:

AP – Feb 9, 2011

HERZLIYA, Israel — NATO would offer peacekeeping services to Israelis and Palestinians if both parties request it in a peace deal, the alliance’s secretary general said Wednesday

Anders Fogh Rasmussen said NATO would intervene if a future peace treaty was broken or if the two sides needed assistance.

Until then, NATO would “not (become) involved in the Mideast peace process and is not seeking a role in it,” Rasmussen said.

US President Barack Obama seemed to propose something similar last year (see Will Obama’s Plan Have Jerusalem Surrounded by Armies?).

Notice what Jesus taught:

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

15 “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), 16 “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. (Matthew 24:15-17)

And while the NATO offer per se is NOT the direct fulfillment of that prophecy as the armies are not technically to surround Jerusalem, it may be a step towards fulfilling it.

Yet, the reality is that it is likely that the coming European power will cite “peace” as part of its own justification when it does, in fact, surround Jerusalem with armies. Daniel wrote:

31 And forces shall be mustered by him, and they shall defile the sanctuary fortress; then they shall take away the daily sacrifices, and place there the abomination of desolation. (Daniel 11:31)

The “he” above is the final King of the North as is so identified as such in Daniel 11:40. It is believed by most biblical scholars that when Jesus was referring to Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, He was referring to the same incident that Daniel wrote about above.

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?
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?
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?
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?

جامعة الدول العربية
Jāmaʻat ad-Duwwal al-ʻArabiyya Arab League Flag

COGwriter

Today, I was asked a question about the King of the South in prophecy as James Malm improperly posted something about me that was not correct.

So, here is what I sent James Malm about it:

Dear James:

Someone told me that you posted the following:

Bob Thiel over at COGWRITER.COM is writing that the present unrest in Egypt and the Islamic world may lead to what LCG and the other major COG Groups claim is a coalescing of Islamic Extremism into the King of the South.  They claim that a group of Islamic mations will defeat the United States after which they shall fight Europe.

This is not really what we teach.

Here is specifically what the COGwriter.com site has concerning the prophetic order in my article on the King of the North:

The Bible itself teaches that the King of the North will act against the strongest fortresses (Daniel 11:39) and later (Daniel 11:40-43) the King of the South…

Specifically notice that the Bible shows that this King of the North will destroy those who are perceived to have the strongest military might and apparently divide up their land:

39 Thus he shall act against the strongest fortresses with a foreign god, which he shall acknowledge, and advance its glory; and he shall cause them to rule over many, and divide the land for gain (Daniel 11:39).

The strongest fortresses in the world belong to the USA and its English-speaking allies (for a more detailed explanation of why the USA and its Anglo-allies are involved, as well as the dividing of their lands, please see Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel)…

When the final contest between the King of the North vs. the King of the South occurs, the King of the South will lose:

40 “At the time of the end the king of the South shall attack him; and the king of the North shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter the countries, overwhelm them, and pass through. 41 He shall also enter the Glorious Land, and many countries shall be overthrown; but these shall escape from his hand: Edom, Moab, and the prominent people of Ammon. 42 He shall stretch out his hand against the countries, and the land of Egypt shall not escape. 43 He shall have power over the treasures of gold and silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt; also the Libyans and Ethiopians shall follow at his heels.

…The Bible is certain that this final King of the North will eventually be destroyed by those from the north and east (probably Russia, China, and India):

44 But news from the east and the north shall trouble him; therefore he shall go out with great fury to destroy and annihilate many. 45 And he shall plant the tents of his palace between the seas and the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and no one will help him (Daniel 11:44-45).

Anyway, that is the sequence at COGwriter from the article Who is the King of the North? www.cogwriter.com/kingofthenorth.htm

We in the Living Church of God teach that the King of the South will be an Islamic power comprised mainly of people from the North Africa and the Middle East.

While it is true that we in the Living Church of God believe that the Muslims will cooperate with the Europeans in the defeat of the Israelite descended nations like the United States per Psalm 83, I have never claimed “that a group of Islamic nations will defeat the United States after which they shall fight Europe”.

My position has always been that the USA will be defeated by the King of the North (with assistance from the King of the South and likely others), after which the King of the South will push against the King of the North and be defeated.

Regards,

Bob Thiel

James Malm graciously sent me an apology for his misunderstanding which I just received. I presume he will post what I sent him.

Perhaps I should have added that the late John Ogwyn of the Living Church of God wrote:

A powerful war-making apparatus marshaled by the coming European superpower will be billed as the cornerstone of world peace and security. Modern technology will be used to create a police-state that Hitler and Stalin could only have dreamed about. People will be induced to accept such draconian measures as the price of getting rid of terrorism and violent crime. At first, this system will bring an upsurge in the world economy. A worldwide trading combine, prophesied in Ezekiel 27 and Revelation 18, will be hailed as the key to universal prosperity. Those at the helm of this system will, for a short time, enjoy unparalleled wealth.

Yet fatal flaws in this system, inherent from its beginning, will in time produce widening disparities. The Arab world will be displeased by attempts to coerce it into religious unity with Europe. A powerful leader—called in Daniel 11 the “king of the South”—will…bring about temporary unity of much of the Islamic world. Provoked by this leader, Europe will launch a “blitzkrieg” resulting in European occupation of much of the Arab world (Daniel 11:40–43). (Ogwyn J. The Beast of Revelation: Myth, Metaphor or Soon-Coming Reality? Online version 03/14/07.)

In my book, 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect I specifically wrote the following:

Presuming that the republics of the U.S.A. and its allies are taken over in verse 39, there are several reasons why the King of the South may decide to launch his major attack shortly thereafter:

1) The fact that “the Great Satan,” a term that certain Moslems call the U.S.A., has been eliminated, the King of the South will realize that the deals made (Daniel 11:27; Psalm 83) with the Assyrian King of the North are of little or no value anymore.

2) Next, without the nominally Protestant U.S.A. in its way, the King of the North will try to impose its non-Moslem religion on more and more of the world.  As many Arabs tend to be more devoutly religious than the Chinese and Russians, they are more likely to get upset with this before the Kings of the East and North-East do (which occurs in Daniel 11:44).

3) Because the Arab confederation wanted to eliminate Israel (Psalm 83 most likely refers to the nation of Israel as well as the U.S.A. and any other serious Israeli allies), it probably will think that its actions greatly helped the Europeans accomplish this.  Because of this thinking, the King of the South may become emboldened.

4) It is also likely that the King of the South will feel that the conquest of the U.S.A. and its allies will strain the military of the King of the North.   The King of the South may believe it is an ideal time to strike.  This is likely, as one of the reasons that the U.S.A. may be so easy to take over is because its own military has been strained, given that the U.S.A. has been spreading its military strength quite thin in the 21^st century.

5) Increasing displays of crosses, combined with people following wonders (such as perhaps including apparitions claiming to be Mary), will get many in the Arab lands to remember the crusades.  Enough will hold to some version of Islam that they will fear an attack must be made or Islam will be defeated.

6) Finally, as many of the Arab economies are dependent upon oil revenues, and most oil fields will have passed their halfway point of production by that stage (and many of its weapons will be of Anglo-American origins), the King of the South may decide that there is no better time to attack.

Also note that this attack against the King of the South occurs   “at the time of the end.”

Since all the events in Egypt, many have questions about who will be the King of the South.  So, here are some quotes from my article Is There A Future King of the South?

In the July-August 2004 edition of the Living Church News, R.C. Meredith of the Living Church of God (LCG) wrote:

The final fulfillment of the prophecies about the coming King of the South are certainly yet to come. But, even now, it is obvious that many events now indicate that the stage is being set for the powerful Muslim leader indicated in Daniel 11:40–43…

The Old WCG Taught About the King of the South…

Now, it is easy to demonstrate that HWA’s WCG did teach that there would be a future King of the South and who WCG believed it would be.

One is a quote from the July 1963 Plain Truth article by Garner Ted Armstrong titled “And when you see the Abomination…”:

Daniel was given specific visions of events to occur in OUR TIME!…Notice! And at the TIME OF THE END (this prophecy, then, is absolutely DATED as pertaining to OUR DAY, NOW) shall the king of the south push at him (the “king of the north”) and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships and he shall enter into the countries, and shall overflow and pass over” (verse 40). Bible scholars have recognized the FIRST, TYPICAL fulfillment of this surprising prophecy, but have failed to see its LITERAL application to OUR TIMES!…

But what of tbe MODERN powers meant by these desig· nations? Remember-the Bible is written, SPIRITUALLY and GEOGRAPHICALLY, from the point of view of PALESTINE! If you were to look on a map, and try to find two powers fitting this description, you would have a fairly easy task…Who else could this be, then, except the coming UNITED STATES OF EUROPE, a resurrection of the ancient ROMAN EMPIRE, JUSt as we have been fearlessly proclaiming…A rearmed GERMANY, heading up a final union…IN EUROPE -THIS is the Biblical KING OF THE NORTH!

The king of the South? EGYPT, of course. But not Egypt of today. Egypt of a few more years from now–Egypt as she continues to expand the U.A.R., bringing more and more of the North Africa Mohammedan nations into the same Afro-Arabian power block! (p. 22).

…Another is a quote from the August 1974 Good News article by Raymond McNair titled Watch the Middle East where he stated:

The longest prophecy of the Bible, the eleventh chapter of Daniel, specifically concerns the Middle East…verses 40-45 are yet to be fulfilled. They reveal that startling events are yet to take place in the Middle East… (p.12).

Thus, WCG was teaching, under HWA for at least the last 22 1/2 years of his life, that at least from verses 40 and on, that portions of Daniel 11 were yet to be fulfilled…

Garner Ted Armstrong in a May 3, 1975 Plain Truth article titled Watch the Middle East wrote

Prophecy says some sort of a ‘shoving match’ precipitated by the ‘King of the South’ will unleash whirlwind lightening-like MILITARY response by a ‘King of the North’.

So the first two quotes from the literature show that WCG did believe in a future ‘King of the South’, but did not clearly identify who.

In a December 1979 Plain Truth article by Keith Stump titled The Arab World in Prophecy it states

But who is the “king of the south”?…in verse 40 we skip to “the time of the end”…The verse undoubtedly found partial fulfillment in the offensive of 1896…But Mussolini did not finish the prophecy…Just as there is yet to be a final “king of the north”…there may very well emerge in the same manner a final “king of the south”–an overall leader of an Arab-Moslem confederation, possibly bearing the very title Mahdi…a prophetic psalm (Psalm 83) provides additional insight into the Mideast picture. Germany (Assyria in Bible prophecy) and perhaps the rest of Europe will be in league in the future with a union of Arab nations…But in the end, this European-Arab alliance will prove short-lived…And the king of the north shall come against him [the king of the south]…The Arab-Moslem Confederation will, of course, be thrown into chaotic disarray in the fact of invasion. (Stump K. The Arab World in Prophecy. Plain Truth, December 1979, pp. 11-12).

The Living Church of God has written:

Indeed, a coming “Mahdi” whose arrival Muslims are expecting—in Bible prophecy known as the “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40–45)—will soon arise and have a dramatic impact on world events. This powerful Muslim religious leader will unite many of the more than one billion Muslims. He will pose a genuine threat to the coming European Empire, which will have to crush that threat in order to continue exploiting Middle Eastern oil to further its military ambitions. (Meredith RC. Prophecy Fulfilled: God’s Hand in World Affairs. LCG Booklet, 2007, pp. 16-17)

(Note: There is actually a Shiite prophecy that some believe points to Barack Obama as one who will help the final “Mahdi” (Arabic for “the guided one”), please see Obama in Islamic Prophecy?,Prophecies of Barack Obama?, and The Arab World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy.) This leader is sometimes also called the Imam Mahdi or the thirteenth Imam by Muslims.

Though not all Muslims expect the Imam Mahdi, many still seem to long for a leader to unify the Arab World. Some Muslims are looking for a political-spiritual leader, sometimes called the Caliph in English, to rise up (Caliph is a shortened version of “Khalifah rasul Allah” meaning “Successor to the Messenger of God”). The title caliph has been given to the head of state in Muslim-governed countries in the past, though the latter ones lacked the power of the earlier ones:

The supreme office of caliph, originally elective, became hereditary…Eventually…caliphs became figurehead or “puppet” leaders…Many Arabs…seek to re-create the political and theological unity of the early Islamic caliphate (Stump K. The Arab World in Prophecy. Plain Truth, December 1979, pp. 9-10).

Perhaps it should be mentioned that for the past couple of years I have wondered how a pan-Arabic entity would form.  And over the past couple of years at least two somewhat have.  One is the Union of Mediterranean States which includes nearly all the Arab nations in somewhat of a pack with Europe.  The other is the monetary union that the Gulf-oil states have been working on (on December 15, 2009 Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar announced the creation of a Monetary Council to come up essentially with their own currency and to get away from the US dollar).

The tie of religion, which has existed for centuries among most of the Arabs, has always been in the back of my mind.  There have been supranational groups like the Taliban, Al Qaeda, Hamas, and the Muslim Brotherhood, but the time was not right for any of them to bring about pan-Arabic unity.  The first three groups have tended to be considered too radical, while many have considered that the Muslim Brotherhood was not radical enough (though this seems to be changing).  The Muslim Brotherhood, which was formed in Egypt in 1928, has long been banned in Egypt (which is why its members/leaders are sometimes jailed there).

As far as what the Muslim Brotherhood wants to accomplish, Wikipedia reports:

In the group’s belief, the Quran and Sunnah constitute a perfect way of life and social and political organization that God has set out for man. Islamic governments must be based on this system and eventually unified in a Caliphate. The Muslim Brotherhood’s goal, as stated by Brotherhood founder Hassan al-Banna was to reclaim Islam’s manifest destiny, an empire, stretching from Spain to Indonesia.

To bring enough Arab nations together, I have felt that some type of “strongman” needed to rise up.  One who Arabs would tend to respect.  The time may be now and the Muslim Brotherhood may play an important role.  The Muslim Brotherhood is is the world’s oldest and largest Islamic political group and has been called the “world’s most influential Islamist movement” (http://english.aljazeera.net/indepth/2010/11/2010111681527837704.html)

In the Plain Truth of December 1980–the year that HWA often claimed he now had the Church back on track–another article states:

Bible prophecy reveals the coming emergence of an Arab-Moslem confederation in the Middle East. It is referred to in prophecy as the ‘king of the south’ (Daniel 11:40). This confederation will play a crucial role in end-time events (Stump, K. Plain Truth. December 1980, p.26).

A related Plain Truth article states:

Bible prophecy reveals the coming emergence of an Arab-Moslem confederation in the Middle East. It is referred to in prophecy as “the king of the south” (Dan. 11:40). This confederation will play a crucial role in end-time events. (Stump K. Seeing the World Through Islamic Eyes. Plain Truth, June 1983, p.44).

These quotes make it clear that WCG’s written position was that there would be a future King of the South–an Arabic-Islamic confederation…

Anyway, to learn more about the Kings of the North and South, please check out the following articles:

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?
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 and Islamic 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? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?

A more detailed explanation on the Kings of the North and South and prophetic sequencing is contained in my book:

2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect This is a link related to a book by Bob Thiel (COGwriter). This link also has YouTube videos. This book documents and explains hundreds of prophecies. And since it was published, world events have aligned with at least 14 predictions in the book and many more will 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.
2012 e o Surgimento da Seita Secreta (Portuguese Edition) 2012 livro do Dr. Thiel em Português. Este livro documenta e explica centenas de profecias. E desde que foi publicado pela primeira vez, pelo menos 14 já começaram a acontecer.

COGwriter

Since I reported earlier today that UCG hired several into the ministry (United News Out, Ministers Added), perhaps I should post that later today the Abigail Cartwright (AC) site listed two more losses to UCG’s eldership:

Mr. Eddie Johnson (Local Elder, Paddock Wood, UK) February 8, 2011, resigned from UCG ministry

Mr. Peter Hawkins (CEO of the UCG UK) February 8, 2011, resigned from UCG ministry

Losing its CEO in the United Kingdom would seem to be a significant hit.

According to the list at the AC site, UCG has lost 165 elders/pastors/ministers since June 0f 2010. But this only represents about 1/3 of its pre-crisis eldership. However, UCG has admitted to losing 53% of its salaried USA ministry from this crisis, so it has been hit pretty hard.

This has been tough for those who are or were in UCG.

If you are or were part of UCG and are confused about what to do, please pray, fast, and study the Bible about this.

Ask yourself what are the true priorities that the Bible indicates that the church most faithful to the words of Jesus would do and act appropriately.

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.
Concerns about Church of God, a Worldwide Association This seems to be the largest group that came out of the United Church of God. Here is some history and concerns about it.
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?

COGwriter

The nuclear reduction deal with Russia is in place:

US-Russia nuclear arms treaty finalized

TMCnet – David Stringer, Geir Moulson – ‎8 February 2011

By AP , MUNICH (AP) — The US and Russia have finalized a nuclear arms treaty that limits the number of atomic warheads the two former Cold War foes  are allowed to possess…The treaty limits each side to 1,550 strategic warheads, down from 2,200.

While many believe that the above is a step toward world peace, I would not be so sure about that.

I read something last week that the only way Russian generals will get rid of nuclear missiles is essentially if they are old, obsolete, or not really functional.  Meaning, that Russia may simply have decided that the treaty was a good way to get rid of some obsolete missiles while encouraging the USA not to acquire more advanced ones itself.

The less total military power that the USA possesses, the closer other powers will come to the USA in military strength.

Because of this deal neither China nor the European Union will have as far to “catch up” with the USA in military matters.

The USA President is in a tough spot.  The USA is effectively bankrupt and cannot afford to maintain its military forces to the degree that its has had in the past. So while deals with Russia may seem to make carnal sense, the biblically reality is that they are dangerous for the USA and will lead to increased vulnerability.

But I, and others in the Living Church of God, have expected this type of thing.  In my book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect, for example, I warned:

Because of domestic economic concerns and international pressures, Barack Obama is shifting priorities away from defense spending… This will help lead to the destruction of the United States, when the Europeans are ready and the U.S.A. is not (Chapter 8).

And this nuclear reduction treaty is consistent with that.

Without national repentance, the days of the USA and its Anglo-descended allies are numbered.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Prophecies of Barack Obama? This article has eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. It includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article at the COGwriter website on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
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 since he is to be the USA president?
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?
Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?
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?
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? What will happen to the Jews in 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 link also has YouTube videos. This book documents and explains hundreds of prophecies. And since it was published, world events have aligned with at least 14 predictions in the book and many more will 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.
2012 e o Surgimento da Seita Secreta (Portuguese Edition) 2012 livro do Dr. Thiel em Português. Este livro documenta e explica centenas de profecias. E desde que foi publicado pela primeira vez, pelo menos 14 já começaram a acontecer.

COGwriter

The electronic version of UCG’s United News is now out.  It does not say much about the crisis, but here is much of what was reported about it by Randy Stiver:

Even as we in the United Church of God slog through a truly sad time of losing friendships in the faith, we are pressing forward in every quarter of God’s work, preaching the gospel and preparing a people to serve the great Messiah at His return for the infinity of eternity in the  Kingdom of God. Lest we lose sight of spiritual progress amidst the current turmoil,
let’s look forward toward the great things that God is doing among us.

As Christ’s brethren, we’re not unfamiliar with turmoil…

With relatively few adjustments, the United Feast sites are operational and will soon be ready for your Festival planning…Your prayers and service help us move forward together—to eternity and beyond!

The focus of the United News seems to be that those who have stayed with UCG believe that they have a renewed focus and commitment to doing the work.  Here are quotes from four different articles:

The invigorating fellowship was evident by the ceaseless buzz of conversation during breaks and meals.

————————————-

Renewed Efforts to Do the Work

————————————-

The Beyond Today crew plays a crucial role in preaching the gospel via television broadcasting and the Internet. Using the various mediums, their goal is to present the gospel message in the most effective way, reaching people in our modern age at their level of understanding.

————————————-

The second part of the conference theme, “Advance the Work,” filled the second half of Tuesday. Melvin Rhodes, chairman of the Council of Elders, set the spiritual tone for proclamation  efforts by drawing attention to Matthew 24:14, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end wi l l come”— emphasizing our commitment to do whatever it takes to proclaim God’s message to the world.

However, as a member of the Living Church of God (LCG), some information that was reported seemed a little odd.  For example, Randy Stiver wrote:

The open door to place the Beyond Today television program on the U.S. nationwide cable station WGN America has been a huge boon to the gospel. In a relatively few months of broadcasting there we have had numerous new donors to the cause plus some already attending the Church!

The Good News magazine has consistently remained the most widespread print periodical proclaiming the gospel of the Kingdom over the last 15 years.

This strikes me as a little odd because for nearly 15 years, UCG was not on WGN and many of its followers were critical of LCG for being on it for all of that time.  Also, the results that UCG has reported from being on WGN remain a fraction of LCG’s results.  Furthermore, the production of UCG’s Good News magazines has fallen since going on WGN according to its own figures.  UCG produces about the same number of its magazine as LCG does its Tomorrow’s World, so to state that the “Good News magazine has consistently remained the most widespread print periodical proclaiming the gospel of the Kingdom over the last 15 years” may be a stretch.   If UCG really has the “commitment to do whatever it takes to proclaim God’s message to the world” it likely would have done more sooner.  Now while it is good that UCG is taking some gospel proclamation steps, it remains to be seen if it will ever change its financial priorities in this area.

UCG lost about 1/3 of its eldership and membership since June of 2010, with most of the losses happening in the past three months (with many of them supporting a new group called COGWA).  It will be strained financially and we will all see what its focus really will be.  If history is a guide, it will focus on matters such as keeping the ministry employed and working towards feeding its flock.

Today, UCG posted the following from Victor Kubik:

The focus of the conference was not only on ministerial service in the churches but also continuing the momentum we’ve achieved in publicly proclaiming the gospel. Our media services department has come through this crisis virtually intact and their personnel made strong presentations on Tuesday afternoon.

The conference also provided important time for social interaction. We were able to meet with many of you to discuss your areas and future plans. We were also able to interview a few of our elders for further service as pastors. We were heartened by the optimistic spirit of moving on. We have come through a serious separation, yet we are optimistic for a strong recovery.

Here is a listing of our most recent hires to the ministry since December, in alphabetical order:

• Roc Corbett (pastor): Salt Lake City, Utah and Grand Junction, Colorado
• Joe Horchak (associate): Sacramento, California and Reno, Nevada
• Mike Joseph (pastor, half-time): Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, Michigan
• Rick Shabi (pastor): Jacksonville, Orlando, Ocala, and Tallahassee, Florida
• Greg Thomas (pastor, half-time): Cleveland, Ohio
• Braden Veller (associate): St. Petersburg, Tampa, Ft. Myers, Miami and West Palm Beach, Florida
• Herb Vierra (associate, half-time): Red Bluff, Eureka, California
• Chuck Zimmerman (pastor): St. Petersburg, Tampa, Ft. Myers, Miami and West Palm Beach, Florida

We have also asked associate pastor Brian Shaw who has been working with Bob Fahey in Chicago to move to the Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota, area and become pastor there. We are all happy about this move for him and his wife RaNae and four daughters.

We still have quite a number of critical locations to fill and are working hard to fill the pastoral needs.

For your information, in early 2010, there were 492 credentialed elders in the United Church of God, an International Association. Of that number, 323 (66%) are still with UCG. Of that total, we have retained 62 of 131 salaried field ministers (47%); 15 of 20 elders salaried by the home office (75%); 9 of 14 retired elders (64%); and 237 of 327 non-salaried elders (73%).

In the United States, we have retained 250 of 382 elders (65%). Of that total, we have retained 46 of 100 salaried field ministers and 180 of 248 non-salaried elders (73%).

So, UCG lost most of its paid ministry in the USA.  And some additional people have been ordained into the ministry by UCG to replace some of the 163 paid and unpaid elders/ministers who have left or been put out since June 2010.

This crisis has been a real struggle for those in or once part of UCG as parties on both sides seem to be offended by the actions of those on the other side. This split is also likely causing financial tensions for the two primary groups affected. It is also causing confusion.

If you are or were part of UCG and are confused about what to do, please pray, fast, and study the Bible about this.  Consider what really has happened and what really is likely to happen.

Ask yourself what are the true priorities that the Bible indicates that the church most faithful to the words of Jesus would do and act appropriately.

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.
Concerns about Church of God, a Worldwide Association This seems to be the largest group that came out of the United Church of God. Here is some history and concerns about it.
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

There are reports that some of the food supplies for Australia and North America been affected by the recent storms:

Livestock and crops laid to waste

The Age, Australia – Feb 7, 2011

On the morning of February 2, 2010, I warned:

Major Storms Hitting North America and Australia, Food Production Could Be Impacted

This seems to be the case. How much so, however, is still to be determined.

Jesus, of course, warned about a time with such issues that many in the world are now facing:

8 … And there will be…famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows. (Mark 13:8)

We may be at this prophetic point as all the floods and other problems that have happened in the past year could be considered as “troubles”.

The “beginning of sorrows” that Jesus referred to could have started. Food shortages will affect North Americans and Australians more than most believe.

Jesus also said:

37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch! (Mark 13:37)

Food prices and weather matters are something to watch.

Tougher times are coming. And for some parts of the world these tougher time may be here now. People who can prepare, should. Both spiritually and physically.

To learn more, 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?
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?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, or 2012? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What is the “beginning of sorrows”? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Physical Preparation Scriptures for Christians. We all know the Bible prophecies famines. Should we do something?

COGwriter

COGWA has now slightly updated congregations on its webpage. It has listed 42 in international areas (now including Malawi), plus 102 congregations in the United States.   Jim Franks stated a week or so ago that COGWA has more USA congregations than have thus far been listed.

A number of the USA congregations also have websites (only one or two did when I had checked previously).  Here is something from one of those sites:

New Web Site Design and Official Abbreviation
Our web site, www.cogwa.org, is about to have a face-lift. The new site should be up and running within the next week. We have also chosen the abbreviation “COGWA” rather than “CGWA” as official for use in all our publications. We could not get the domain name CGWA for our website.

At COGWriter, I have been using the abbreviation COGWA almost exclusively because of the URL.

COGWA is the largest group to form from the UCG. Former UCG president Clyde Kilough is one of its leaders. Some of the better known listed leaders/ministers today included Cecil Maranville, David Treybig, Jim Franks, Doug Horchak, and Ken Treybig. There are some other well known leaders that may not have been on that list that are part of COGWA (Richard Pinelli and Ralph Levy who are part of COGWA comes to mind).

This crisis has been a real struggle for those in or once part of UCG as parties on both sides seem to be offended by the actions of those on the other side.  This split is also likely causing financial tensions for the two primary groups affected.  It is also causing confusion.

LCG’s Dr. Meredith has written:

Right now, Satan has thrown thousands of brethren in the United Church of God into division and confusion. Charges and counter-charges are being hurled back and forth between the different factions of their ministry. As a result, many brethren are trying to understand and to figure out “what to do.”

If you are or were part of UCG and are confused about what to do, please pray, fast, and study the Bible about this.

Ask yourself what are the true priorities that the Bible indicates that the church most faithful to the words of Jesus would do and act appropriately.

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.
Concerns about Church of God, a Worldwide Association This seems to be the largest group that came out of the United Church of God. Here is some history and concerns about it.
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.