Church of God News

2007 Carnival at Pátio de São Pedro square, in Recife, Brazil (Wiki Photo)

COGwriter

Tuesday marks Mardi Gras and the end of the season known as “carnaval” (which is several days to many weeks long depending upon the culture). Essentially the “carnival season” is a time of having parties and indulging in practices that certain Catholics believe that they should give up on Ash Wednesday for the duration of Lent.

Here is one report about it:

Although the origins of Carnaval are shrouded in mystery, some believe the fest began as a pagan celebrationof spring’s arrival sometime during the Middle Ages. The Portuguese brought the celebration to Brazil in the 1500s, but it took on a decidedly local flavor by adopting Indian costumes and African rhythms. The word itself probably derives from the Latin “carne vale,” or “goodbye meat,” a reference to the Catholic tradition of giving up meat (and other fleshly temptations) during Lent…(http://www.sltrib.com/travel/ci_7883824).

Here is some of what the American Catholic reports about it:

Mardi Gras, literally “Fat Tuesday,” has grown in popularity in recent years as a raucous, sometimes hedonistic event…Carnival comes from the Latin words carne vale, meaning “farewell to the flesh.” Like many Catholic holidays and seasonal celebrations, it likely has its roots in pre-Christian traditions based on the seasons. (Catholic Roots of Mardi Gras.  American Catholic.  http://www.americancatholic.org/features/mardigras/)

The origins of this are not a complete mystery as the sixth edition of the Columbia Encyclopedia:

Carnival communal celebration, especially the religious celebration in Catholic countries that takes place just before Lent…

One of the first recorded instances of an annual spring festival is the festival of Osiris in Egypt; it commemorated the renewal of life brought about by the yearly flooding of the Nile. In Athens, during the 6th cent. BC, a yearly celebration in honor of the god Dionysus was the first recorded instance of the use of a float.

It was during the Roman Empire that carnivals reached an unparalleled peak of civil disorder and licentiousness. The major Roman carnivals were the Bacchanalia, the Saturnalia, and the Lupercalia. In Europe the tradition of spring fertility celebrations persisted well into Christian times, where carnivals reached their peak during the 14th and 15th cent.

Because carnivals are deeply rooted in pagan superstitions and the folklore of Europe, the Roman Catholic Church was unable to stamp them out and finally accepted many of them as part of church activity (http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1E1-carnival.html).

Essentially, this is a pagan holiday that some Catholics originally adopted as a compromise to keep members in certain areas.

Despite its origins, many Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and others will participate in the revelries associated with carnival.

Essentially Carnaval is a time when some believe that they can indulge to excess as they will need to give up some of those excesses if they observe a time called Lent.

Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday” and is the day before Ash Wednesday. Some seem to believe that they need to excessively indulge prior to a religious season of some type of abstinence.

The popularity of carnaval has spread from outside of Brazil, Venice, and New Orleans as many look for any excuse for a party. And it would seem that most who attend such parties are not that interested in actually its “religious” connection.  Speaking of New Orleans, it seems to be having tornado problems:

Louisiana: “The storm that killed Granger was one of at least two twisters tied to a weather system that has caused major damage in the state and wreaked havoc on Mardi Gras festivities.” CNN – March 6, 2011 http://edition.cnn.com/2011/US/03/06/louisiana.storm/

Of course, Mardi Gras festivities are not biblical.

Lent, which also is not of biblical origin, is becoming an excuse essentially for loud and wild parties all over the world, which stop the night before it.

Carnaval tends to be associated with drunkenness, lust, and other practices that the Bible condemns.

It really should not be considered as something that real Christians would participate in.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Mexico, Central America, South America, and Brazil in Prophecy [Español: México, America Central, Suramérica, y el Brasil en profecíal] [Português: México, América Central, Ámérica do Sul, e Brasil na profecia] What will happen to those of Latin America? Will they have prosperity? Will they cooperate with Europe? Will they suffer in the future? What rule might the various Caribbean nations/territories play?
Is Lent a Christian Holiday? When did it originate? What about Ash Wednesday? If you observe them, do you know why?
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?
Mardi Gras: The Devil’s Carnival? Do you know that in Bolivia the carnival/Mardi Gras time is part of a celebration known as the Devil’s Carnival?

COGwriter

The Church of God, a Worldwide Association (COGWA) updated its website today.  As of 03/06/2011, COGWA listed 232 congregations with 109 in the USA and 123 international ones. COGWA is likely the third or fourth largest COG.

The United Church of God (UCG), the group that COGWA broke away from, is still the largest.  The Living Church of God (LCG) is the second largest.  Gerald Flurry’s improperly named Philadelphia Church of God (PCG) was third and still may be (PCG is not always public about its attendance figures, but until I see more attendance figures from COGWA, PCG still seems to be third largest).  David Hulme’s COGaIC is probably fifth.

There has been a lull in the number of elders leaving UCG for COGWA in the past couple of weeks, so it may be that both groups will be better able to determine their sizes and how they will be able to manage their congregations.  The world has not gotten any smaller, yet UCG/COGWA now have two sets of congregations to handle with the about the same number of elders that it handled their congregations when they were together prior to this split.

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

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.

COGwriter

In yesterday’s TW News & Prophecy, LCG reported:

Conquering AIDS God’s way.

A recently published study in the online journal PLoS Medicine revealed startling findings about the AIDS epidemic in Zimbabwe. In recent years, “HIV prevalence has declined in Zimbabwe by approximately 50%.” HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. The primary reason it has declined is not condom use, as many public health experts appear to wish, but rather fewer sexual partners. In fact, the study authors cite better education and more intact marriages as the key to reduced promiscuity. More specifically, it was much easier for men to act on the “being faithful” prevention messages due to a “stronger marriage pattern” in the nation (citation: Halperin DT, Mugurungi O, Hallett TB, Muchini B, Campbell B, et al. (2011) A Surprising Prevention Success: Why Did the HIV Epidemic Decline in Zimbabwe? PLoS Med 8(2): e1000414. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.1000414).

For decades, public health efforts have attempted to battle HIV infection while “avoiding” promoting moral or Christian behaviors. Now, health officials seem amazed by the drastic reductions in HIV infection rates due to behaviors that are godly, God-ordained, and promoted by the Bible!

Thousands of years ago, God directed humans to marry (Genesis 2:18, 24) and commanded them to confine sexual relations to marriage (Exodus 20:14). God promised that obedience to His commandments would result in “none of these diseases” befalling them (Exodus 15:26). God’s principles are simple and plain and result in blessings. It is exciting to see the blessings of adherence to God’s principles borne out in modern public health research!

The fact is that turning to biblical morality would eliminate AIDS, as well as all other STDs.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Successful Parenting: God’s Way This is an LCG booklet by Dr. J. Fall.
God’s Plan for Happy Marriage This is an LCG booklet by Dr. R. Meredith.
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.

Muammar al-Gaddafi

COGwriter

This morning, I received the following from ICG’s Mark Armstrong:

For all the predictions of his imminent resignation, death or flight from Libya, Gadaffi remains and there are constant reports of civilian demonstrators coming under attack from mercenaries or the Libyan military. Truth be told, it’s a little difficult to know just what is going on in Libya. News anchors seem to take the word of various callers who report in, and occasionally air cell phone video of ongoing demonstrations. There is no question that Gadaffi is damaged goods, from a mental standpoint, and an unrepentant psychopath. Now there is near constant debate as to whether the U.S. or NATO forces should intervene in Libya.

We’ve all seen firsthand the results of the trouble in Libya, and other oil producers across the Middle East. Although the supply of oil is still flowing (with Saudi Arabia promising to make up for the interruption in Libya) prices at the pump have soared. Even the rich gulf kingdoms are being targeted by protest movements, and concerned that it could turn very ugly. The trouble brewing across the region is leading speculators to bid up future prices of oil on the commodities market, and that’s exactly what’s going on…

It seems like every news brake opens with the sounds of chanting mobs somewhere. You have to look closely to see if it’s in the Middle East or maybe Wisconsin. Is it mere coincidence that so many of these events are transpiring at the same time? Or is it true that several of the same groups, and organizers, in some cases people who are in close consultation with the White House, are actually planning and promoting the chaos.

The western world was already in deep economic trouble long before all the disruptions across the Middle East began. A spike in oil prices, along with the accompanying assurance that everything will soon cost more can only exacerbate an already bad situation.

Islam is most assuredly on the march, and making frightening gains across the board. Europe is congealing into what critics are calling a totalitarian empire. Whether by accident or design, the U.S. is in decline from nearly every standpoint. Gold is soaring. The stock market suffered repeated setbacks on the week’s news, and it’s getting harder by the day to view current events as a minor bump in the road. No, these are earthshaking events, ready or not.

The situation in Libya will change and the final King of the South will rise up.  The more chaos there becomes in the world in general, and the Middle East/North Africa in particular, the more the stage is being set for the people there to desire to support such a leader.

Libya: Fierce Fighting In East And West

Sky News – Steph Oliver – ‎5 March 2011

Forces loyal to Colonel Muammer Gaddafi have launched a series of fierce attacks in key areas of east and west Libya.

Scores killed as Kadafi loyalists, rebels clash in Libyan port city of Zawiya

Los Angeles Times – ‎5 March 2011

Fighting continues on multiple fronts in Libya. Moammar Kadafi reportedly renews his assault on Zawiya, west of Tripoli. A rebel organizer says opposition forces continue to hold the city but expect another attack.

Both sides in Libya are claiming that they are making progress–which seems to mean that people are dying.  Time will probably tell fairly soon what will happen there.

But things are happening elsewhere.

Of course, as Mark Armstrong reported the USA is declining.  Its approach to subjects such as abortion and homosexuality have distorted the ability of its leaders to properly understand economic issues, hence the massive accumulation of debt.  The USA will have some ups and downs, but the overall trend will be down (despite some ups that are expected).

These troubles will precede the end (Mark 13:5-8), but the end will come.  And that end will include the end of the USA as a nation (Daniel 11:39; Habakkuk 2:3,5,6-8).

Watch (cf. Mark 13:33-37).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? What does the Bible say?
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?
The Arab World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam?
Africa: Its Biblical Past and Prophesied Future What does the Bible teach about Africa and its future? Did the early Church reach Africa? Will God call all the Africans?
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?
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?
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? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?

COGwriter

Finally got a chance to watch Aaron Dean’s financial report video of this week, a few moments ago.   Aaron Dean is the Treasurer for the United Church of God (UCG).

He reported that UCG had a proposed income of US$23,250,000 for the period of July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011.  He now estimates an income of $18,500,000 for the same period.  This represents about a 20% drop from his earlier projection and a 22.5% drop from its previous fiscal year of $23,870,107.  (UCG’s income last peaked in its fiscal year ending 6/30/09 at $24,735,699.)  Aaron Dean said that UCG at the 67% point of its current fiscal year, has spent about 95.7% of its church assistance budget so far (891k of 931k).

Aaron Dean said he is hoping/expecting that UCG will not have to cut the media budget (public proclamation).  He also reported that UCG’s cash reserves are still fine.  He was fairly upbeat on these matters.  He mentioned praying for those in COGWA (though without naming that group) and those in other COGs.

Aaron Dean also discussed cost savings and that there are ministerial gaps that some elders are trying to fill in.  He said that UCG has tried to be generous and fair with the former ministers, financially.  UCG expects to overspend its budget on second time assistance, relocation expenses, and certain other areas.  In the latter portion of the year he expects that payroll costs will be lowered with the loss of ministers (UCG reported that it lost over 1/2 of its paid ministry in the past year)–but so far there has been little costs savings there.

Speaking of UCG ministerial losses, the Abigail Cartwright (AC) site posted the following today:

Mr. Bill Swanson (Retired Pastor, London, KY) March 2, 2011, forced to resign from UCG ministry

(I do not know why Bill Swanson resigned or was “forced to”.)  AC lists 174 ministers/elders to have resigned from UCG (voluntarily and forced, most voluntarily) since June 2010.

Many of the ministers ended up with the new group known as COGWA.

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 seems to be 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.

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.

Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg

COGwriter

In today’s TW World & Prophecy, the Living Church of God (LCG) reported:

German Defense Minister resigns in scandal.

Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg, Germany’s Defense Minister, resigned Tuesday amid pressures related to plagiarism in his doctoral dissertation. Apparently, more than 20% of his dissertation was copied without attribution. Mr. zu Guttenberg was one politician whom many Germans still trusted. The scandal has changed that view for many.

Mr. zu Guttenberg is considered by many as “Germany’s most promising politician.” Although Chancellor Merkel tried to protect him, his action of essentially “lying” in an academic setting is forcing people to question his integrity in other areas and responsibilities. Thousands of graduate students across Germany also wrote an open letter to Mrs. Merkel calling for zu Guttenberg to step down.

An article describing the scandal ended with the observation: “As for Mr. zu Guttenberg himself, it would be unwise to write him off. By stepping down now, he hopes to preserve much of the goodwill he has accumulated over the past few years. His resignation may be a prelude to resurrection rather than the end of a brilliant career” (The Economist, March 1, 2011).

Even though plagiarism appears to be a “minor” sin in relation to other horrendous abuses by public officials, it breaks the 8th and 9th commandments and results in consequences. Mr. zu Guttenberg may reemerge in politics in the future (and this bears watching), yet his actions and their ramifications reinforce the biblical principle, “be sure your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23).  http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?jKyMrMyMbLQsHAxsrJwszLRGtJxMLAyMHCw=

As I reported earlier, Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg remains highly popular (see 72% Want Guttenberg to Return).

The Living Church of God reported the following about him before:

Germany Should “Use” Military Force. Speaking at a recent security conference in Berlin, German Defense Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg urged Germany to “be prepared to use its military to defend the country’s economic interests.” Baron Guttenberg noted that the competing demands of nations today for raw materials made it imperative that Germany—a nation whose export-driven economy is heavily dependent upon imported raw materials—should be prepared to use its military forces to secure trade routes for raw materials and exported goods. While his political opponents were quick to challenge these strong statements as contrary to the German constitution, the Defense Minister saw his position as only logical (Der Spiegel, November 10, 2010). Bible prophecies have long foretold the re-emergence of Germany (modern Assyria) as a major player on the world scene (see Isaiah 10:5-14). The words and actions of this popular German Defense Minister, who is also a lawyer and of Habsburg lineage, will be interesting to watch. (World Ahead Weekly Update, Living Church of God, November 18, 2010).

And the Baron is certainly one to watch, as he seems to be inclined to be a warrior.

As regular readers of this page are aware, for many reasons I have had my eye on Karl Guttenberg since late 2009 when I initially reported about him. And he may be one to watch to rise up as the final “King of the North”. We in the Living Church of God have long taught that a powerful army led by a “strongman” would ultimately arise in Europe. And this will be fulfilled by a single leader, known as the Beast in Revelation 13 & 17 and the final King of the North in Daniel 11. The Bible shows that the other leaders in Europe will give their power to him (Revelation 17:12-14) and that he will lead a military machine that will cause the rest of the world to marvel at (Revelation 13:3-4).

If Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg eventually establishes a new religious order within Catholicism (cf. Daniel 11:38), promotes European unity, promotes ecumenism, promotes peace in the Middle East, and/or otherwise rises up in European politics, he could be very interesting to watch. He now may have the time to do some of these things.

On the other hand, Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg could simply be a normal politician, with ups and downs like many others. We will see.

As I reported before, certain Roman and Orthodox Catholic prophecies seem to suggest that a certain leader will arise in Europe after being exiled for something (see Guttenberg Resigns!).  The Baron’s semi-self-imposed exile (he could have stayed in his job as Chancellor Merkel still supported him) bears watching as another Catholic prophecy says that the one who will rise up to rule Europe “is cognizant of the things of the future”, Monk Leontios, d. 912 (see Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? for more details).

Could the Baron have decided to resign now to partially fulfill the Catholic prophecies about the “king” (Great Monarch) being pushed out to exile?

I do not know, but if he is the one, I would not put it past him.

Much is happening in the world, and a leader known as the final King of the North (or Beast) in Bible prophecy, will ultimately become the leader of Europe. And according to the Bible, he will have military abilities (Revelation 13:1-4) and apparently be charismatic (cf. Daniel 7:20,11:21-24,31; Revelation 13:3-5). Karl Guttenberg fulfills these requirements, despite this current setback.

We all should watch (cf. Mark 13:37).

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? Is the German Defense Minister one to watch? What do Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecies suggest?
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?

COGwriter

The following struck me as unusual today:

Pork industry to call on consumers to ‘Be Inspired’

(3/4/2011)

Rod Smith

Special Coverage from the National Pork Forum in Phoenix, Ariz., March 3-5. The National Pork Board is scheduled to unveil its new advertising and promotion campaign this afternoon in which it will turn the page on “Pork: The Other White Meat” and replace the 25-year tagline with “Pork: Be Inspired.”   http://www.feedstuffs.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=F4D1A9DFCD974EAD8CD5205E15C1CB42&nm=Breaking+News&type=news&mod=News&mid=A3D60400B4204079A76C4B1B129CB433&tier=3&nid=4FD6698EDDD94824A9390654A01FEFC4

Inspired?

Notice the dictionary definition of that word:

aroused, animated, or imbued with the spirit to do something, by or as if by supernatural or divine influence: an inspired poet. Source: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/inspired

Christians would want to get their inspiration from the Bible and/or God’s Holy Spirit.  Not from pork.

The Bible never indicates that any one should eat pork.

Actually, the few times that swine are mentioned in the Bible, followers of the word of God are told not to eat it.  Here are the first couple of times it is mentioned in scripture:

7 and the swine, though it divides the hoof, having cloven hooves, yet does not chew the cud, is unclean to you. 8 Their flesh you shall not eat, and their carcasses you shall not touch. They are unclean to you.  (Leviticus 11:7-8, NKJV)

8 Also the swine is unclean for you, because it has cloven hooves, yet does not chew the cud; you shall not eat their flesh or touch their dead carcasses. (Deuteronomy 14:8, NKJV)

Though some have different views, it is important to understand that the Bible clearly teaches that God will punish those who eat unclean meat in the future:

“Those who consecrate and purify themselves to go into the gardens, following the one in the midst of those who eat the flesh of pigs and rats and other abominable things–they will meet their end together,” declares the LORD. “And I, because of their actions and their imaginations, am about to come and gather all nations and tongues, and they will come and see my glory…”(Isaiah 66:17-18 NIV).

While the pork industry wants to tout the alleged health benefits of pork, the following news item that came out in December 2010 was of interest:

But an article just published in Scientific American says our pig monitoring is pretty bad. So bad that American pigs farms are virtually “flu factories,” according to author Helen Branswell, a Nieman Fellow in global health reporting at Harvard University. http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2010/12/23/132256243/scientific-american-u-s-pig-farms-may-be-flu-factories

Pigs have always carried diseases that could hurt humans. The flu connection isn’t really new, but it may be news to some people. Pigs may cause various diseases to break forth.

Relatively soon, serious pestilences are prophesied as we are prophetically at/near the point Jesus called “the beginning of sorrows”–which includes pestilences (Matthew 24:7-8). Whether or how pigs may be involved is not mentioned in scripture.

If humans quit eating pigs, the “swine flu” and certain other infectious problems would probably go away.

FWIW, there is no scripture in the Bible that shows that any one called of God in either the Old or New Testaments ever ate pork. Some may be surprised to hear that.

Hence, “be inspired”, check out what the Bible teaches and do not eat pork.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? 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?
The New Testament Church and Unclean Meats Are foods considered to have been unclean in the Old Testament considered to be food in the New Testament? This article discusses this from the perspective of the New Testament. It also has a list of clean and unclean animals. It also answers the question, is pork healthy or is pork dangerous?

Herman Van Rompuy

COGwriter

Might EU President Herman Van Rompuy fulfill the following scripture?

20 “There shall arise in his place one who imposes taxes on the glorious kingdom; but within a few days he shall be destroyed, but not in anger or in battle. (Daniel 11:20)

EU President Herman Van Rompuy has gone on record supporting some type of tax for the EU in the past (see EU Tax Proposed).   And it was just announced that he has proposed another one that may not make it for a while:

EU members baulk at tax hurdle

Stephen Castle

March 4, 2011

A PUSH to align European corporate tax systems has emerged as the biggest obstacle to a proposal aimed at imposing more fiscal discipline on the 17 countries in the euro zone…

The proposal was drafted by officials of the president of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, and the president of the European Commission, Jose Manuel Barroso.  http://www.smh.com.au/business/eu-members-baulk-at-tax-hurdle-20110303-1bg6x.html

Essentially the proposal would raise corporate taxes in many of the smaller nations in the EU.  But it is running into enough resistance that I do not believe it will be implemented (at least as proposed) for some time (and it may not be).  Of course, since the Bible indicates that the final European power will not be highly cohesive, like iron mixed with clay (Daniel 2:41-43), these type of issues are really no surprise.

As regular readers of this COGwriter page are aware, I have felt since prior to his taking up of his office on December 1, 2010, that Herman Van Rompuy could be the one to be the potentially prophesied “raiser of taxes” for the Europeans, prior to the rise of the final King of the North (see Herman Van Rompuy May Fulfill Daniel 11:20, But Did PCG’s Gerald Flurry Predict It?).

Now, this one particular tax uniformity, even if goes through, is probably not enough to fulfill the prophecy. But if Herman Van Rompuy is involved in raising others and dies shortly thereafter, he is a candidate for this role in Daniel 11:20.

Thus far, the Europeans have taken a more cautious approach to their debt problems that the USA.  Tax issues, as well as spending cuts, are ones that the Europeans seem to be looking at more seriously than the American political leaders in Washington seem to be willing to do.

Time may be getting short. And if various taxes are raised for the European Union, this may signal how close we may be to the rising up of the final King of the North, and also the Antichrist.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? When does the six thousand years of human rule end?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect This is a link related to a book by Bob Thiel (COGwriter). This also has YouTube videos related to 2012. The book contains documented prophecies as well as an end time sequence of events that Christians should study and understand. Including the role of Europe and how it is pivotal to end time biblical prophecy.

Chinese Soldiers

COGwriter

The “Peoples’ Republic of China” is worried about unrest in its country and is taking steps to reduce reporting about it.  VOA reports:

China is changing how foreign journalist can work in the country and reporters are being warned they risk expulsion if they try to cover pro-democracy rallies.  Some tourist areas of the capital and Shanghai now have the same off-limits rules governing sensitive areas such as Tibet.

In a tense news conference Thursday, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu accused some journalists of deliberately inciting trouble while covering pro-democracy protests.

She warned those journalists accused of flouting the rules could not be protected under Chinese media laws.

Jiang said, however, that journalists who respect the rules will have the protection of the law.

She said there is no law to protect those who journalists who create what she described as “disturbances”.

Jiang spoke after Chinese police warned foreign journalists this week to obey new restrictions on covering rallies called by an on-line protest campaign, or risking having their work visas canceled.

Jasmine revolution

Last Sunday, more than 16 journalists were physically harassed by plainclothes and uniformed police in Beijing, with one American journalist hospitalized after a severe beating.

The journalists went to an area in Beijing known as Wangfujing. An on-line campaign called for people to go to that area, and other locations around China, on Sunday afternoons, to show support for the revolutions sweeping the Middle East, and to seek justice and reform in China.

It appears, however, that few actual protesters showed up Sunday. In Wangfujing, journalists reported seeing scores of security officers.

Beijing and Shanghai have clamped down on security in response to calls for rallies. Some dissidents said they face new restrictions on their activities…

The United States, the European Union and media groups have condemned the media curbs.   http://www.voanews.com/english/news/asia/China-Threatens-to-Expel-Foreign-Journalists-117306638.html

China began censoring news a few weeks ago (see China Appears Worried About Egypt), but now seems even more determined to prevent certain things from being seen.

Notice the following disturbing report that has made it through despite the journalistic curbs today:

Chinese human rights activists have been disappearing ever since a mysterious call went out on the Internet for a “Jasmine Revolution” similar to the uprisings against authoritarian regimes in the Middle East — a call that was made again this week.  http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2011-03-03-china04_ST_N.htm?csp=34news

Much of what China appears to be doing is consistent with what the late Deng Xiaoping once expressed,

China must hide brightness and nourish obscurity . . . to bide our time and build up our capabilities (Source: Times Online).

Yet, the 21st century will not belong to China.

We in the Living Church of God have long suspected that there would be unrest in China.

Notice what RC Meredith of the Living Church of God wrote years before the current unrest in the Middle East:

Many publications have suggested that the 21st century will be “China’s century.” Even though the Chinese are fiercely moving forward, and their progress in developing their industries is obvious, these publications are dead wrong for two reasons. First, the inspired word of God describes specifically how a coming European Union will be the dominant force in this world—obviously within the next several years. Therefore, brethren, I would like to focus your mind on this matter so you can more intelligently “watch” world events along this line as they unfold before your very eyes. In the coming years, you will perhaps even see a revolt of the peasants in the outlying Chinese cities, who have lagged far behind the standard of living afforded those who have moved to Beijing and Shanghai. Plus, the tremendous pollution of the water, air and foodstuffs may bring about massive disease epidemics and other problems for the Chinese.

In addition, distracting wars and other events may— as God chooses to guide it—greatly undermine the material progress now being made by the Chinese. Meanwhile, you will soon see the European Union evolve into an absolutely powerful and dynamic force in the world— ultimately to become the “Beast” as revealed in Revelation 17 in your own Bible!

So the 21st century will not be the “Chinese century!” Rather it will appear to become the European century for a few years, until the magnificent return of Jesus Christ as King of kings and Lord of lords. From then on, the 21st century will be, indeed, “Christ’s century!” And all of us who are able to understand the “Big Picture” of world events from God’s point of view should be preparing to help straighten out the appalling degree of suffering, starvation and misconduct we find on this earth today in virtually every nation (Meredith R.C. An Inspiring and Successful Trip. Living Church News. May-June 2007, p. 21).

And while the Chinese government may be able to prevent a massive escalation of protests for a while, it may be that they will end up with it any way.

Some articles involving the Asian peoples that may be of interest may include the following:

China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Genesis and Chinese Characters Where did the Chinese people come from? This article provides information showing that the Chinese peoples must have known about various accounts in the Book of Genesis up until their dispersion after the Tower of Babel.
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: The Sabbath and Some of God’s Witness in China When did Christianity first come to China? And is there early evidence that they observed the seventh day sabbath?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
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?

Pope Benedict XVI

COGwriter

Pope Bendict XVI wrote some positive statements in a new book:

Pope exonerates Jews for Jesus’ death in new book

AP – March 2, 2011

VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI has made a sweeping exoneration of the Jewish people for the death of Jesus Christ, tackling one of the most controversial issues in Christianity in a new book.

In “Jesus of Nazareth-Part II” excerpts released Wednesday, Benedict uses biblical and theological analyses to explain why there was no basis in Scripture that the Jewish people as a whole were responsible for Jesus’ death.

Interpretations to the contrary have been used for centuries to justify the persecution of Jews…

In the book, Benedict re-enacts Jesus’ final hours, then analyzes each Gospel account to explain why Jews as a whole cannot be blamed for having turned him over. Rather, Benedict concludes, it was the Jewish leadership, the “Temple aristocracy” and a few supporters of the figure Barabbas who were responsible, but not Jews as a whole.

“How could the whole people have been present at this moment to clamor for Jesus’ death?” Benedict asks.

He deconstructs one particular account which has the crowd saying, “His blood be on us and on our children” — a phrase frequently cited as evidence of the collective guilt Jews bore and the curse that they carried as a result…

But Benedict said Jesus’ death wasn’t about punishment, but rather salvation. Jesus’ blood, he said, “does not cry out for vengeance and punishment, it brings reconciliation. It is not poured out against anyone, it is poured out for many, for all.”  http://www.ajc.com/news/nation-world/pope-exonerates-jews-for-858084.html

We in the Living Church of God have never blamed the Jewish people per se for the death of Jesus.  The Bible is clear that Jesus died for the sins of all humankind and that while certain Jews wanted it, the Romans actually carried the crucifixion out.

The Roman and Orthodox Catholics have several prophecies involving the Jews.  Essentially, they believe that during the end time, they will convert to Catholicism:

The Pope calls an Ecumenical Council which will be viewed as the greatest in the history of the Church. The world is spiritually and materially prosperous as never before and many Jews, Mohammedans, heathens and heretics will enter the Church. (Birch, p. 555)

Blessed Anna Maria Taigi (died 1837): “described to me the great ordeal ahead. Rome would be battered by revolutions…Then entire nations would return to the unity of the Church, and many Turks, Pagans and Jews would be converted and their fervour cover with confusion the original Christians. In one word she told me that our Lord was intending to cleanse the world and His Church…” (Bessieres A. Wife, Mother and Mystic (Blessed Anna Maria Taigi). Nihil Obstat: Carlos Davis, S.T.L. Imprimatur: E Morrough Bernard, Westmonasteri, die Februari, 1952. Reprint TAN Books, Rockford (IL), 1982, p. 166).

Magdalene Porsat (19th century): A grand event shall have to take place in order to terrify the wicked to their advantage. After this, Mary, all-powerful, shall change all men into good wheat. All shall be good. The Pharisees (the hypocrites) will be the last (to be converted); the great brigands (great sinners) will arrive beforehand. The Jews who have refused to receive Jesus Christ in his humiliation will acknowledge him at the glorious arrival of Mary…The hour is not far distant. It is Mary in person! (Rossi, p. 135)

On the persecuting side are the following Roman and Orthodox Catholics prophecies:

Saint Andrew Fool-for-Christ (c. 4^th century):  This king will rule…Happiness will reign in the world as it did in the days of Noah.  People will become very rich…The entire world will fear this king…he will pursue all persons of the Jewish religion out of Constantinople…and the people will rejoice like in the time of Noah until the deluge came (Tzima Otto, pp. 76, 102, 111, 113, 114).

St. Bridget of Sweden (died 1373): The Eagle…He will destroy the Jewish and Mahometan sects. (Culleton , p. 154)

The “Eagle” and “king” in the above is one that is also known as the “Great Monarch” in certain Catholic circles.   He sounds like the beast (Revelation 13:1-8) and final King of the North (Daniel 11:29-45) that the Bible warns about.  Perhaps it should be pointed out that certain Catholic prophecies insist that the final Antichrist will be Jewish (see Do Certain Catholic Prophecies About Antichrist Warn Against Jesus?), while others suggest that the final Antichrist will be a compromising ecumenical pontiff who essentially pretends to be Catholic (see Catholic Prophecies: Do They Mirror, Highlight, or Contradict Biblical Prophecies? and, in more detail my book, 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect).

So while Pope Benedict is making positive overtures towards the Jews and the truth about their only limited role in the death of Jesus, this does not mean that the end-time compromised ecumenical religion of the final King of the South and Beast will maintain his position.

Some articles of 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? Will some Catholics be involved? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe?
Which Is Faithful: The Roman Catholic Church or the Living Church of God? Do you know that both groups shared a lot of the earliest teachings? Do you know which church changed? Do you know which group is most faithful to the teachings of the apostolic church? Which group best represents true Christianity? This documented article answers those questions. Português: Qual é fiel: A igreja católica romana ou a igreja viva do deus? Tambien Español: Cuál es fiel: ¿La iglesia católica romana o La Iglesia del Dios Viviente? Auch: Deutsch: Welches zuverlässig ist: Die Römisch-katholische Kirche oder die lebende Kirche von Gott?
Some Similarities and Differences Between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Living Church of God Both groups claim to be the original church, but both groups have differing ways to claim it. Both groups have some amazing similarities and some major differences. Do you know what they are?
Why Should American Catholics Should Fear Unity with the Orthodox? Are the current ecumenical meetings a good thing or will they result in disaster?
Orthodox Must Reject Unity with the Roman Catholics The talks for unification involve compromise and the apparent rising up of a changed religion that no one should accept.
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.