Church of God News

Berlin Reichstag

COGwriter

More and more are noticing that the Euro is in trouble and that if it continues, Germany will have more ability to dominate the European Union:

Germany’s neighbors and allies are growing increasingly concerned about Berlin’s foreign policy direction. Some even fear that efforts to export its fiscal ideas could mean the prosperous country has lost sight of the European idea. Or worse yet, that it wants to dominate the currency union.

The euro has failed, though more politically than economically, according to an article in the September edition of US magazine Vanity Fair. “Conceived as a tool for integrating Germany into Europe, and preventing Germans from dominating others, it has become the opposite,” financial journalist and author Michael Lewis writes. “For better or for worse, the Germans now own Europe.”

The fact that a reunited Germany has weathered the Western world’s financial crisis with ease, at least so far, has made its neighbors and friends uneasy. http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/0,1518,783322,00.html

The above article showed a photo of protestors with an EU flag with a swastika in the middle of it–hinting that this is the type of domination that Germany is trying to attain.

And while many believe because of its WWII role, that no one will trust Germany to lead the Europeans, this is one of the reasons that I have had my eye on former German Defense Minister, Baron Karl zu Guttenberg, as possible candidate to become the final King of the North, leader of the final Beast power.

Why him?  Amongst other reasons, one of his relatives (Karl Ludwig Freiherr von und zu Guttenberg) was killed in 1945 for plotting to over-through Adolf Hitler in 1944, hence I believe that this will make Baron Guttenberg (or perhaps one with a similar background) more acceptable to other European nations–he can claim that his family differed from those who supported Adolf Hitler, hence he will likely indicate that no one has anything to fear from him (though biblically, that would not be a true statement).

We in the Living Church of God have long taught that Germany would be the driving force in the end-time European Beast power as well as having a future role in God’s kingdom. It is interesting that secular sources are more and more starting to notice Germany’s emergence.

With the various EU debt crises, the economic influence of Germany is growing.   What seems to be emerging in Germany will become more than simply an economic power, it will be a military one as well.  Despite complaints and problems in Europe, it will fulfill its biblically-prophesied role (cf. Daniel 2:41-43).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? What MUST happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Could He Become “the Beast”? What makes the German Defense Minister a candidate?

COGwriter

A reader sent me a link that had the following:

7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. (Matthew 24:7-8)

5 When He opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, “Come and see.” So I looked, and behold, a black horse, and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand. 6 And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine.” (Revelation 6:5-6)

As far as when, I have speculated that it could start as soon as the Feast of Tabernacles in 2011 (which will be in October). And even if not, it appears signs for this to happen are building up, and many negative events are expected.

Yet, there is good news as ultimately, God’s kingdom will come and food shortages will be gone:

16 They shall neither hunger anymore nor thirst anymore (Revelation 7:16).

But a terrible hour of trial is coming first (Revelation 3:10; Jeremiah 30:7). But it too will end.

As Jesus said:

37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch! (Mark 13:36-37)

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. Westerners need to realize that this will not only affect people in places like Africa, Asia, and the Middle East–the Anglo-descended nations of the West will themselves suffer hunger, civil unrest, famine, and worse.  Of course, between the recent London riots in the UK (Ephraim) and “flashmobs” in the USA (Manasseh), to a degree, this unrest has began.

And speaking of the Anglo-descended nations, in his latest co-worker letter, Dr. Roderick C. Meredith of the Living Church of God wrote:

So it seems that the “beginning of sorrows” has certainly been escalating in Ephraim and Manasseh! Maybe it will help some few people to actually “wake up”! (Meredith RC. LCG Co-worker letter, August 15, 2011)

The sorrows and troubles are just beginning and will get much worse.  Hopefully, people will wake up.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

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?
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? True religion should be based upon the true gospel.
Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism? Was the millennium (sometimes called chiliasm) taught by early Christians? Who condemned it. Will Jesus literally reign for 1000 years on the earth? Is this time near?
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?
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?
Is Tony Blair Apocalyptic? The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom converted to Catholicism shortly after leaving his office and has been active in European affairs. What role might he play?

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

COGwriter

Peaceful Islam?  Notice what one leader in the Middle East is publicly stating:

Sheik ‘Adel Shehato, a senior leader with the Egyptian Islamic Jihad terrorist group…explained…“Of course we will launch a campaign of Islamic conquest throughout the world. As soon as the Muslim and Islam control Egypt and implement the Sharia, we will turn to the neighboring regions, Libya and Sudan to the south. All the Muslims in the world who wish to see the Shariah implemented worldwide will join the Egyptian army in order to form Islamic battalions, whose task will be to bring about the victory…http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=339305

While they word it slightly differently (and less blatantly), the Muslim Brotherhood seems to want basically the same thing.

The USA itself has seemed to back the Muslim Brotherhood in Syria (see Obama Administration Picks Muslim Brotherhood in Syria?), Egypt (see Muslim Brotherhood Rising Up, Pan-Islamic State Will Too), and Libya (see Muslim Brotherhood is Increasing its Influence).  The Brotherhood is a group that wants a multi-national Islamic state, known as a caliphate, ran by a caliph (some prefer the title of Imam Mahdi).

Ultimately the Bible tells of an Arabic confederation that will rise up with a leader that it calls the King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43).   More and more within the Arab world seem to be calling for something that sounds very similar to what the Bible foretells.  They, may however, wish to check out both biblical and Islamic prophecy, as parts of both of them foretell that this Islamic leader will ultimately fail:

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. (Daniel 11:40-42).

The last days, as described in Islam, are marked by the figures of Gog and Magog (Juj wa Jajuj), the Mahdi, the Antichrist (Dajjal), and Jesus…Gog and Magog, representing the forces of chaos, have been kept at bay…At the end of time, chaos will break through the wall of Divinely imposed order, and the world will succumb to “outer darkness”. At the same time, it is believed, there will be a countercurrent, or a brief return to the state of spiritual lucidity and primordial integrity that obtained at the dawn of time. This is the reign of the Mahdi, the “rightly guided one”…The reign of the Mahdi will be followed by that of the Antichrist… once the Antichrist has led away his followers, Jesus will then come to destroy the Antichrist in the closing moments of the cosmic drama. (New Encyclopedia of Islam as cited in 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect)

But for this leader to fall, he first needs to rise up.  And the world situation is getting such that this may be relatively soon.

For more information, here are three articles of possibly related interest:

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?
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?
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?

Hemagglutinin-type Flu Virus (Cybercobra at en.wikipedia)

COGwriter

Avian flu again? Yes.  Notice the following:

Bird flu deaths in Asia prompt call for scrutiny

Reuters – ‎30/31 August 2011

HONG KONG (Reuters) – Virologists warned on Tuesday that there was no vaccine against a mutant strain of H5N1 bird flu now spreading in China and Vietnam and called for closer monitoring of the disease in poultry and wild birds to stop it .

Health experts warn of major resurgence of bird flu

‎August 31, 2011
Sydney Morning Herald – Julia MedewWhile the federal government yesterday said it was well prepared for an outbreak of H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, leading scientist and Nobel prize winner Peter Doherty said the increasing spread of the virus in and around Asia was ”dangerous” because it could rob developing countries of food while creating a new pandemic.

Wikipedia:

Influenza A virus subtype H5N1, also known as “bird flu“, A(H5N1) or simply H5N1, is a subtype of the influenza A virus which can cause illness in humans and many other animal species.^[1] A bird-adapted strain of H5N1, called HPAI A(H5N1) for “highly pathogenic avian influenza virus of type A of subtype H5N1″, is the causative agent of H5N1 flu, commonly known as “avian influenza” or “bird flu”. It is enzootic in many bird populations, especially in Southeast Asia. One strain of HPAI A(H5N1) is spreading globally after first appearing in Asia

• H5 stands for the fifth of several known types of the protein hemagglutinin.
• N1 stands for the first of several known types of the protein neuraminidase.

Thus, there is another bird flu that seems to have come from Asia.  Because of agricultural practices related to raising of livestock, including poultry, Asia (often China) is traditionally the place where new flu viruses originate. But, of course, they then have a tendency to spread around the globe.

Relatively soon, serious pestilences are prophesied as we are prophetically at/near the point Jesus called “the beginning of sorrows”–which includes famines and pestilences (Matthew 24:7-8). Whether or how birds may be involved is not mentioned in scripture–but a reduction in poultry can certainly affect food supplies.  We will see what happens with this strain of the “bird flu.”

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?
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?

Corn Zea mays (Andrew Butko)

COGwriter

Over a decade ago, I started to get published for my positions against genetically-modified foods (Thiel R.  Labeling of genetically modified foods should be a fundamental consumer right.  HealthKeepers, 2000; 2 (3):16-19; Thiel R. ANMA’s official position on genetically-modified foods.  ANMA Monitor, 1999;3(4)5-8).  Today’s Wall Street Journal has an article on page B1 that is consistent with one of my concerns about genetically-modified corn:

Monsanto Corn Plant Losing Bug Resistance

Wall Street Journal – Aug 29, 2011

Widely grown corn plants that Monsanto Co. genetically modified to thwart a voracious bug are falling prey to that very pest in a few Iowa fields, the first time a major Midwest scourge has developed resistance to a genetically modified crop.

The discovery raises concerns that the way some farmers are using biotech crops could spawn superbugs.

Iowa State University entomologist Aaron Gassmann’s discovery that western corn rootworms in four northeast Iowa fields have evolved to resist the natural pesticide made by Monsanto’s corn plant…http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424053111904009304576532742267732046.html?mod=WSJ_hp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection

Corn, more properly known as maize, is a very important food crop in the USA.  Furthermore, as Wikipedia reports, 85% of the US maize crop was genetically modified in 2009.  This increased dependance upon genetically-modified organisms (GMOs) for the American food supply is putting the USA at tremendous risk for famine and pestilences (cf. Matthew 24:7-8).

In more recent times I warned:

In the “Great Depression” most Americans and Brits had skills in growing food. This is no longer the case. Furthermore, modern crops have gotten more complicated as so many seeds are hybrids that they will not actually grow the type of foods most in the USA and UK are used to having. The coming food problems will also get worse once one or more genetically-modified crops suffers from some type of pestilence. The USA, to cite one example, could lose virtually all of its wheat or corn because of the dependence on genetically modified versions (which is especially true for crops like corn and soy). Prophecy for famines will be fulfilled (Matthew 24:7-8). (From China Buying USA Food, In Depression Will Chinese Eat While Americans & Brits Starve? May 21, 2010)

Notice something that Ezekiel was inspired to write:

15 ‘So it shall be a reproach, a taunt, a lesson, and an astonishment to the nations that are all around you, when I execute judgments among you in anger and in fury and in furious rebukes. I, the Lord, have spoken. 16 When I send against them the terrible arrows of famine which shall be for destruction, which I will send to destroy you, I will increase the famine upon you and cut off your supply of bread. 17 So I will send against you famine and wild beasts, and they will bereave you. Pestilence and blood shall pass through you, and I will bring the sword against you. I, the Lord, have spoken.’” (Ezekiel 5:15-17)

Notice that this shows famine, then pestilence, and then the sword.  The above sequence seems to be slightly different than that Jesus listed as part of the “beginning of sorrows” (Mathew 24:7-8) as the sword comes afterwards. But since the sword should begin the Great Tribulation, the time of Jacob’s trouble (Jeremiah 30:7), this may be part of how the beginning of sorrows ties into the Great Tribulation–this also may suggest hunger and disease problems for the Anglo-nations prior to the start of the Great Tribulation.

The increasing use of genetically modified organisms for many of the grain crops in the USA is putting parts of humanity at major increased risk of unintended consequences such as famine and disease pestilences.  Most of the corn and soy beans produced in the USA are genetically-modified.  Soon, much of the wheat will be.  Directly and indirectly, the USA and its Anglo-allies will cause most of the problems that it will be experiencing in the next several years.

As Jesus said:

37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch! (Mark 13:36-37)

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. (From Super Wheat: Solution or Disaster Awaiting? June 10, 2011)

So, it may be that the Anglo-nations will experience some real hunger as well as disease and/or other pestilences (that could possibly at least partially be triggered by excessive reliance on genetically-modified organisms as part of their agricultural production) that will weaken them enough so that the USA and its Anglo-allies will then be considered attackable by some of their enemies…

Because of sin, greed, and ignorance, America has been into producing genetically-modified foods. These “foods” are genetically identical which makes them susceptible to total elimination via famine-causing pestilential organisms. I have long suspected that the time will come when some type of pestilence will hit America’s genetically-modified grain crops like corn and wreak havoc on the land.  Enough so, that this may embolden its enemies to attack Britain and/or the USA to begin the Great Tribulation. (Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Spring 2011)

Basically, I have long suspected that likely crop failures associated with GMO grains are putting the USA at extreme risk of being destroyed.  Most Americans do not like to accept this, but it is nonetheless true.

The time is coming when the USA will have severe food shortages.  And at that same time, the USA may have to provide grain to China and other creditors that it owes when some Americans will be starving. The reliance on genetically-modified grain crops will likely contribute to disaster in the USA.  It may even contribute to food inflation later this year.

Today’s news item provides further secular proof that my long-held beliefs concerning the risks of genetically-modified foods are getting more current scientific validation.

While we are not there yet for total crop failure, this time is coming soon (and is likely to be the result of weather and other factors as well).

Physical Preparation Scriptures for Christians. We all know the Bible prophecies famines. Should we do something?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for China? Is it a “King of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where?
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?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? Are there biblical and non-biblical prophecies about 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 his timing and at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most detailed of the articles here at COGwriter related to prophecy and Barack Obama.
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?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?

COGwriter

A reader forwarded me an article that included the following:

WHEN Benjamin Grant Mitchell decided to write a novel based on his life, he had plenty of material to work with. The former Neighbours actor, singer-songwriter and new father was born into an American doomsday cult. To top it off, his father was one of the ministers. Mitchell, who now lives in Warrandyte, started penning his story three years ago and next week will unveil the debut novel, The Last Great Day, at the Melbourne Writers Festival.

The 42-year-old, who played Neighbours character Cameron Hudson in the 1990s, spent his early childhood moving around Australia, then settled at the Worldwide Church of God headquarters in Los Angeles. http://www.melbourneweeklyeastern.com.au/news/local/news/general/benjamin-mitchell-life-in-a-sect-provides-novel-inspiration/2266324.aspx?storypage=0

There are a lot of misunderstandings about the old Worldwide Church of God (WCG).

But it was not a “doomsday cult.”

Those of us who were part of the old WCG and in the current Living Church of God (LCG) are not like the Jim Jones’ followers–we do not plan on drinking poisoned flavor-aid to end our lives.  Although some are expected to die in persecutions, LCG church members mainly hope to live until the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of His kingdom, and hope to proclaim the truths of the Bible to the world as a witness until the end (Matthew 24:14).

Regarding what we call The Last Great Day, the old WCG taught (and the LCG still teaches) that it pictures a time where God will offer salvation to all that never really had an opportunity for it (it is one of the biblical Holy Days that we in LCG observe–see also The Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day).  That is GOOD NEWS.  Notice what the New Testament and the Old Testament plainly teach:

6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God. (Luke 3:6)

10 And all the ends of the earth shall see The salvation of our God. (Isaiah 52:10)

37 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.  38 He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”  (John 7:37-38)

As far as preaching prophecies in the Bible that show that the Anglo-descended nations will be chastised if they do not repent, yes the old WCG and current LCG taught that (see Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel and Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves?).  But urging repentance is not a sign of being a doomsday cult.  It is a sign of trying to follow what Jesus said to do.  Notice, the following, that Jesus taught:

3 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.  4 Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem?  5 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.  (Luke 13:3-5)

And if Jesus did not want the prophetic warnings to be taught, would He have taught the following?

19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. (Matthew 28:19-20)

Remember, between 1/4-1/3 of the Bible is prophetic.  It is included in the ALL THINGS that Jesus wanted taught.

Sadly, many simply do not understand the message that He came to bring.

People should read and study the Bible.  Promoting misunderstandings about the Church of God is not good.

Some biblically-referenced articles of possibly related interest may include:

The Bible: Fact or Fiction? This is a booklet written by Douglas Winnail that answers if the Bible is just a collection of myths and legends or the inspired word of God.
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading.
The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians? Is this pilgrimage holy day still valid? Does it teach anything relevant for today’s Christians? What is the Last Great Day? What do these days teach?
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?
Persecutions by Church and State This article documents some that have occurred against those associated with the COGs and some prophesied to occur. Will those with the cross be the persecutors or the persecuted–this article has the shocking answer.
What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally?
What Did Jesus Teach About the Ten Commandments? This article quotes what Jesus actually said about them (His words are in red).
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? True religion should be based upon the true gospel.
Universal Offer of Salvation: There Are Hundreds of Verses in the Bible Supporting the Doctrine of True Apocatastasis Do you believe what the Bible actually teaches on this? Will all good things be restored? Will God call everyone? Will everyone have an opportunity for salvation? Does God’s plan of salvation take rebellion and spiritual blindness into account?
Hope of Salvation: How the Living Church of God differ from most Protestants How the Living Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background.
Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers those important questions.

Yoshihiko Noda

COGwriter

Japan’s prime minister resigned and has been replaced by Finance Minister Yoshihiko Noda.  In the USA, Barack Obama selected a new economic advisors chairman.  And in Germany, that nation is getting frustrated about bailing out other parts of Europe:

Japan’s ruling party on Monday picked Finance Minister Yoshihiko Noda as its new leader, bringing him a step closer to becoming the nation’s next prime minister.Parliament will vote Tuesday on whether he will assume the position of prime minister — the country’s sixth in five years…Last week, the credit rating agency Moody’s downgraded Japan to an Aa3 rating from Aa2, blaming the country’s huge deficit and frequent changes in administration that have prevented the government from implementing long-term economic policies.  http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/asiapcf/08/29/japan.politics/

Finance minister chosen as Japan’s next leader

Toronto Star – ‎29 August 2011

Finance Minister Yoshihiko Noda answers questions after being elected as the new leader of the ruling Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) in Tokyo on Aug. 29, 2011.

Obama to Tap Krueger as Top Economist

Wall Street Journal – 29 August 2011

President Barack Obama on Monday plans to nominate Princeton University’s Alan Krueger to be chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, a White House official said.  http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424053111904332804576538200563908180.html

Euro bail-out in doubt as “hysteria” sweeps Germany

German Chancellor Angela Merkel no longer has enough coalition votes in the Bundestag to secure backing for Europe’s revamped rescue machinery, threatening a constitutional crisis in Germany and a fresh eruption of the euro debt saga.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/financialcrisis/8728628/Euro-bail-out-in-doubt-as-hysteria-sweeps-Germany.html

Major nations are all trying to make changes based upon the economic crises that they and much of the world is facing.

Japan will have its issues, but ultimately seems prophesied to cooperate with China (cf. Revelation 16:12).  Germany seems prophesied to ultimately rise up and lead the world for a while, and at the expense of nations like the UK and USA (Isaiah 10:5-12; Psalm 83:2-8).

While the USA is in a trend towards decline, ultimately, that decline will speed up to the point of a real crash.  Evangelist Dr. D. Winnail of the Living Church of God wrote about the suddenness of what will happen:

Handwriting on the Wall! On July 4, the United States, currently the most powerful nation in the world, celebrated 234 years of independence. The following day, on Monday, July 5, British-born Harvard professor and economic historian Niall Ferguson opened the 2010 Aspen Ideas Festival with a stark warning that the American “empire” could suddenly collapse—possibly within the next two years—due to the country’s rising debt! (Winnail W. LCG World Ahead Weekly Update, July 8, 2010)

The U.S. and the British-descended peoples have enjoyed living off the resources of the world, but the prophet Habakkuk warns: “… Will not your creditors rise up suddenly? Will they not awaken who oppress you? And you will become their booty. Because you have plundered many nations, all the remnant of the people shall plunder you” (Habakkuk 2:7–8). (Winnail D. Sudden Calamities Ahead! Tomorrows’ World, Volume 10, Issue 5. Sept-Oct, 2008)

Hebrew prophets also warned repeatedly that the future demise of God’s chosen Israelite peoples would come “suddenly” and unexpectedly (Isaiah 9:14–15; 29:5; 30:13; Jeremiah 6:26; 15:8). Modern financial analysts realize this could happen if the nations lending to America decide to dump the dollar and call their loans. The prophet Habakkuk’s warning to the ancient Babylonians, “Will not your creditors rise up suddenly?” (Habakkuk 2:7)—may also ring true for debt-plagued nations like America and its Israelite cousins. Prophetic scripture contains a sobering message: debt and disobedience lead to the demise of nations! (Winnail, D. Debt, Disobedience and Demise of Nations. Tomorrows’ World, Volume 12, Issue 2. March-April 2010, p. 27)

Despite Japanese government debt, Japan is also owed large amounts by the USA.  It is the the United States and its Anglo-allies that have loaded pledges of debt in these end times that they really do not expect to pay back. In that respect they have recently plundered many nations.  Much of their debt is owed to nations such as China, Japan, and the Arab World, while the Europeans have trillions of dollars invested in the USA–money they may be disappointed to have devalued. Enough so that they may divide the land among themselves and other creditors.

So, while some of the major economic powers are having changes this week, biblical prophecy gives us a general map to see how it will all end up.

Several 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?
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
Japan, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Any Witness? Where did the Japanese people come from? Have they had any witness?
Japan, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: Prophecy Japan in prophecy. What is prophesied for Japan? Will God save the Japanese?
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?
Resurgent Germany: A Fourth Reich? Who are the German peoples and where did they come from? What is Germany’s role in end time prophecy?
Does God Have a 6,000/7,000 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?

Dr. Douglas Winnail

COGwriter

In his latest update, LCG’s Evangelist Dr. D. Winnail had the following:

Transforming Faith: How has your faith influenced or changed your life? The Apostle Paul urged New Testament Christians, “do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:1-2). The word “transformed” comes from the Greek word metamorphoo which means a complete and total change—as when a caterpillar undergoes a metamorphosis into a butterfly! Jesus told potential Christians that they must repent (Greek metanao) which involves learning to think differently and turn with sorrow from a past course of action. As we regularly study and meditate on the word of God and ask God to help us change, we will develop the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5). As we make conscious decisions to think, talk and act as Jesus would—as we crucify the old self—Jesus Christ will be able to live His life in us (Galatians 2:20). This is the transforming faith that enables us to come out of the darkness of this age and be the lights to the world that God is looking for in individuals who are called to become members of His family (Ephesians 5:8-10).

The update also included the following:

Archaeology Supports Bible History. Recent archaeological findings near the ancient Philistine city of Gath have unearthed evidence of fighting around this town known in the Bible as the home of Goliath. “Diggers at Gath have also uncovered traces of a destruction of the city in the 9th century B.C., including a ditch and embankment built around the city by a besieging army— still visible as a dark line running across the surrounding hills. The razing of Gath at that time appears to have been the work of the Aramean king Hazael in 830 B.C., an incident mentioned in the Book of Kings” (see 2 Kings 12:17). Additional evidence demonstrates that the Philistines ate both pig and dog, unlike their Israelite neighbors (www.foxnews.com, July 11, 2011). An earlier discovery of a potsherd with a name related to “Goliath” sheds additional light on the story of David and Goliath—which some scholars think is just a legend (see Biblical Archaeology Review, March/April 2006). Jesus Christ twice observed “For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known” (Matthew 10:26; Luke 12:2). It is exciting to see that scientific and archaeological evidence continues to support the Bible as a valid, historical document.

People often seem to want excuses to not listen to the Bible.  The facts, however, will always end up supporting the word of God.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

A Short Article on Faith A subject that could fill many books.
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?
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? True religion should be based upon the true gospel.
Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers those important questions.
The Bible: Fact or Fiction? This is a booklet written by Douglas Winnail that answers if the Bible is just a collection of myths and legends or the inspired word of God.
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading.
Biblical Archaeology This is a website that has more information on biblical archeological as is sometimes known as the Bib Arch site.

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

COGwriter

The situation in Syria is starting to seriously affect the Middle East:

Basically, Iran is worried that the situation in Syria may cause it to lose an ally.  The Arab League wants to take steps to show that it supports the people of Syria, so when change happens, they will be more supportive of the Arab League.  While some in Iran are also calling for an end to the violence in Syria, the Iranians seem to mainly blame the protestors while the Arab League seems to mainly blame the Syrian government’s responses.  Iran has made statements that the government in Syria listen to the people their “legitimate demands”), but my read is that Iran still mainly supports the Assad government.

The USA itself has seemed to back the Muslim Brotherhood in Syria (see Obama Administration Picks Muslim Brotherhood in Syria?), a group that wants a multi-national Islamic state, known as a caliphate.

As a general rule, the Arab League is made up of countries that are primarily Sunni Muslims, while Iran is primarily Shi’ite Muslim.  And while they differ somewhat in their prophetic outlooks, by and large, both want a leader to rise up and unify the Islamic world.  The Iranians seem to feel that they need to contribute to chaos for this to happen, while the Arab League, thus far, has taken a more diplomatic approach.

And their has been chaos/flux in Egypt, Syria, Yemen, Tunisia, and other parts of the Arab world.

Of course, Libya too is in a state of major flux.  At this instant it appears that the anti-Qaddafi forces have the upper hand, and that this may also assist groups like the Muslim Brotherhood gain more power in that nation.  Notice two items about that:

Libya rebels reject negotiation offer from Gaddafi

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Hindustan Times – 28 August 2011
AP Libyan rebels on Sunday rejected an offer by Muammar Gaddafi to negotiate and said they have captured the eastern town of Bin Jawwad, forcing regime loyalists to flee after days of fighting. The opposition fighters have threatened to advance westward on the coastal road toward Gaddafi’s hometown of Sirte if tribal leaders there don’t agree to surrender peacefully.

Libya’s Interim Leadership Releases Its Members’ Names

New York Times – Rod Nordland… ‎Lamin Bel Haj, described by politicians in Benghazi as a member of the previously banned Muslim Brotherhood, which most Libyans regard as moderates. Mr. Bel Haj was described as taking charge of Tripoli for the rebels. and was one of five Tripoli names on the new council.

Ultimately the Bible tells of an Arabic confederation that will rise up with a leader that it calls the King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43).  Since the Bible does NOT indicate that Iran will  be a major part of it, it may be that Iran may be weakened first by some type of military attack first.

Is Iran prepared to send in troops or take other military action to prevent the loss of an ally?  Will it blame Israel for some of what is happening and encourage Syria to attack Israel with its assistance?  We will see.

For more information, here are three articles of possibly related interest:

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?
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?
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?

Aftermath of Typhoon Ketsana in Manila, 2009

COGwriter

Here are some reports tonight about the storms in the Philippines and the USA:

MANILA, Philippines — A slow-moving typhoon made landfall in the Philippines on Saturday, drenching most of the north and triggering landslides that killed five children, officials said.

CBS News’ Barnaby Lo reports from Manila that the state weather bureau has upgraded Typhoon Nanmadol to a Category 5 “Supertyphoon.”  http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/08/27/501364/main20098203.shtml?tag=stack

Typhoon pounds the Philippines as it makes its way to Taiwan

‎TODAYonline – 27/28 August 2011

MANILA – A slow-moving typhoon made landfall in the Philippines yesterday, drenching most of the northern provinces and triggering landslides that killed five children and a man digging for gold, officials said.  Typhoon Nanmadol unleashed strong winds that toppled trees and electricity poles, cutting off electricity in several areas.

Death toll from Hurricane Irene reaches 8: CNN

Xinhua – ‎27/28 August 2011

27 (Xinhua) — Hurricane Irene-related deaths have amounted to eight as it churned up the US East Coast with high wind, torrential rain and flooding, according to the latest CNN report. Five people died in North Carolina…

Virginia residents gird for Irene, one death reported

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Reuters – Larry Downing – Molly O’Toole – 27 August 2011

Tens of thousands lose power as hurricane batters Maryland

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The Republic – Frank D. Roylance – Erik Maza – 27 August 2011
BALTIMORE — Hurricane Irene moved across Maryland overnight with high winds, heavy rains and dangerous tides. The storm cut power to tens of thousands of residents and turned the state’s biggest summer resort of Ocean City into a wind-swept ghost town.

New York shuts down ahead of Hurricane Irene

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Reuters – Eduardo Munoz – Martin Howell – 27 August 2011
Residents leave buildings before the arrival of Hurricane Irene at downtown Manhattan in New York August 27, 2011.

Connecticut, Rhode Island join Hurricane Irene evacuation list

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Los Angeles Times – 27 August 2011
Though Hurricane Irene was still hundreds of miles south, residents of low-lying areas of Connecticut and Rhode Island were evacuated Saturday

Weather-related problems can greatly disrupt many lives, and as the above shows, even loss of lives.

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

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

The affected areas are in my prayers.

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

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? True religion should be based upon the true gospel.
Islands and Bible Prophecy What’s ahead for islands? What does the Bible prophesy about them?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, Japanese, and others of Asia? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) 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 Jerusalem and 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?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? When does the six thousand years of human rule end?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?