Church of God News

COGwriter

Earlier this week, I reported about flooding in Japan and the Gulf Coast of the USA (see Typhoon Floods Kill in Japan, While Lee Floods Louisiana).  Now there is major flooding in the Northeast of the USA:

Worst flooding in 40 years hits Northeast

USA Today- 9 September 2011

Binghamton flood at historic levels, devastates region

Rochester Democrat and Chronicle – Victoria Freile – Gary McLendon – 9 September 2011

Scenes of devastation were occurring up and down the Susquehanna River watershed, where remnants of Tropical Storm Lee poured water on top of communities already soaked by the remnants of Irene. Hundreds of roads were closed and a total of more than 100,000 people were ordered to evacuate, most of them in the Binghamton area of New York and the Wilkes-Barre area of Pennsylvania.

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Heavy rains put parts of NJ under flood watch‎ Township Journal, 9 September 2011

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Local: ‘This is no longer a 100-year flood‘‎ NorthJersey.com 8 September 2011

“We can no longer use the term ‘100-year flood’, as we have now had three major floods in the past 12 years,” said Haggerty. “This is not only a Lyndhurst issue, but one which affects all of those who live within the flood zones of the Passaic River.”

Flood Warning for the Wallkill River at Gardiner

‎Times Herald-Record – 9 September 2011
The National Weather Service continues a Flood Warning for the Wallkill River at Gardiner through Friday night as water levels remain above flood stage.

So Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey are having a lot of flood issues (and a week or so ago, Vermont was hit hard by Hurricane Irene).  My wife was visiting relatives in New Jersey earlier this week and told me that there were a lot of flooded streets where she had been driving.

Jesus, of course, warned about a time with such troubling issues:

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

We may be at this prophetic point as all the floods, droughts, earthquakes, and other problems that have happened in the past year or so could be considered as “troubles”–the beginning of sorrows may have began two years ago this month.

My 2009 book, 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect mentioned the following was about to happen:

Odd weather patterns result in food shortages and natural disasters.

Matthew 24:7

The world is actually in a berserk transition, as the real age of peace is not yet here. It may be a period of chaos. It is the beginning of sorrows

Matthew 24:8

Perhaps the record weather problems can serve as another wake-up call that things can change very quickly and that the time to repent is now:

30 Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, 31 because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead. (Acts 17:30-31)

There are troubles and repentance is needed.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers those important questions.
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading.
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? What is “the beginning of sorrows”? Have we begun or are we about ready for “the beginning of sorrows” to begin.
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 (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?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? Are there Mayan calendar predictions for change in 2012? Changes were centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans. Do Mayan/Hindu/Hopi/Buddhist/New Age/Nostradamus prophecies have any value here? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start before 2012? How might Barack Obama be involved in 2012?
2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect This is a link related to a book by Bob Thiel (COGwriter). This link also has YouTube videos. This book documents and explains hundreds of prophecies. And since it was published, world events have aligned with at least 14 predictions in the book and many more will to come to pass.
2012 y el surgimiento de la secta secreta 2012 libro del Dr. Thiel en Español.
2012 und das Auftreten der geheimen Sekte (German Edition) 2012 Buch von Dr. Thiel in deutscher Sprache.
2012 e o Surgimento da Seita Secreta (Portuguese Edition) 2012 livro do Dr. Thiel em Português. Este livro documenta e explica centenas de profecias. E desde que foi publicado pela primeira vez, pelo menos 14 já começaram a acontecer.
2012 e o Surgimento da Seita Secreta (Brazilian Portuguese Edition) 2012 livro do Dr. Thiel. Edição em português do Brasil. Este livro documenta e explica centenas de profecias. E desde que foi publicado pela primeira vez, pelo menos 16 já começaram a acontecer.

Flag of Palestine

COGwriter

Palestine made its bid for statehood official at the United Nations today:

Palestine UN bid launched

gulfnews.com – Nasouh Nazzal – ‎8 September 2011

In a letter to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon some 100 members of the “National Campaign Palestine: State No. 194” asked him to accept Palestine as a full member state of the UN. The letter was handed to officials at the UN’s Ramallah office…

On September 23, 2011 the Palestine Authority’s leader Mahmoud Abbas is to address address the General Assembly on the issue.

There are different views on the wisdom of this. Here is the USA’s intended course:

US Confirms Palestinian Statehood Veto Threat

Voice of America – ‎8 September 2011

September 08, 2011 US Confirms Palestinian Statehood Veto Threat David Gollust | State Department The United States on Thursday confirmed it will veto any bid by the Palestinians to seek statehood recognition in the UN Security Council.

The veto threat comes as no surprise because the Obama administration has long said that a Palestinian statehood bid –  without Israeli concurrence – would set back hopes for real peace.

Here are three news items from the COGwriter page showing various views of the Palestinian Statehood plan:

China to Back Palestinian Statehood

Israel: Forced Peace Plan to Cause World War

Germany’s Merkel Says to Wait on Palestinian Recognition

I have long suspected that some type of unrest or war would proceed the peace deal of Daniel 9:27. It is possible that the result of the UN bid may be increased violence and other tensions in the region.

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?

European Parliament Headquarters (Strasbourg, France)

COGwriter

Britain is once again being minimized by the EU and this time a Brit seemed to agree:

‘Big five’ tell Baroness Ashton to bypass Britain over EU military HQ

France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Poland have sided with Baroness Ashton in her battle with Britain over an EU military headquarters by signing a secret letter instructing her to set it up without British involvement.

Telegraph – Sept 8, 2011 http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/eu/8747399/Big-five-tell-Baroness-Ashton-to-bypass-Britain-over-EU-military-HQ.html

The United Kingdom will one day realize that what is being created in Europe will not look at all favorably upon it.

Europe and the Gentile nations are rising up–the final time of the Gentiles is getting closer. The Anglo-nations are overall in decline, and being left out of major military decisions will increasingly happen to not only the UK, but the USA as well.

A reader sent me the following from STRATFOR:

German power will creep back into the world as Berlin attempts to grow its economic domination of Europe into a political structure that will last for decades. The European debt crisis is a catastrophe by all definitions save one: It is enabling the Germans to use their superior financial position to force the various euro nations to surrender sovereignty to a centralized authority that Germany controls. (August 2011)

Germany is rising up and Britain is no longer considered “great.”

Today’s news item is showing that having a non-Anglo dominated military organization in Europe is intended.  And prophecy shows that it will, for a time, succeed (cf. Daniel 11:39-43).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
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?
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?
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?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? Is this the time of the Gentiles? What is the Day of the Lord?

COGwriter

Tonight, the National Football League (NFL) begins its official season.  But, there have been a variety of news reports about permanent injury from playing that sport lately.

Should Christians support violent sports like American football?

The late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote:

All Sports Not Wrong

Competition and not cooperation, is the attitude which Satan inculcates human minds. But that does not mean that all sports are wrong or to be banned. The law of God is based on the way of righteousness…The basic law is love, out flowing toward God above all else, and secondarily, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”

To harm the other fellow and to gain by doing so for self is a kind of competition that is wrong. Hostility toward the other is sin…

Boxing at Ambassador College is definitely banned. God did not create the human brain and head to be pummeled and knocked senseless by an antagonist.

Wherever a game in sports involves antagonists–in hostile attitude to harm the other and/or to “get” from the other–to get the best of the other then a harmful, satanic and evil attitude enters in, and the sport is evil, not good…

Football (American football) is a violent body-contact sport. It is often played with an attitude of hostility and is dangerous and is fraught with physical injury. (Plain Truth, July-August 1984)

Jesus, of course, taught “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39, NKJV, unless otherwise indicated), while the Apostle Paul wrote “no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it” (Ephesians 5:29).

After seeing the injuries that some of my high school football-playing colleagues suffered, I could not reconcile the scriptures with American football.   There are better ways for Christians to learn principles like teamwork from other sports or activities than watching actual violence.

John the Baptist taught, “Do violence to no man” (Luke 3:14, KJV), so what about violent sports?  The New Testament also warns Christians against being violent or approving of those that are (Romans 1:28-32), while history records that early Christians would not watch violent sports (e.g. Theophilus of Antioch. To Autolycus).

Years ago, Dr. Roderick C. Meredith wrote that avoiding bodily harm was an important health law (Seven Laws of Radiant Health).  Since it is best to avoid bodily injury, should Christians encourage others to put themselves in harm’s way?

Herbert Armstrong also wrote:

At golf the one who wins is not the one gets the most by taking it away from the other…So golf is not a wrong competition–nor is any race at a distance, or hurdle race, or long jump, high jump, pole vault or other field competition in a track and field meet…

Soccer does not embody the same evils {as American football}. Baseball, softball, volleyball, while competitive, do not necessarily involve hostility, harm to others or trying to prevent the opponent from doing his best. When played in God’s attitude towards others these are acceptable and not prohibited. Satan is the author of competition based upon hostility, harm to the opponent, getting by taking from an opponent–to his harm or loss…

The very name Satan means “adversary.” Satan is an evil adversary, who desires to harm, who has a spirit of hostility.

And yes, some people do sin watching and/or playing soccer. But soccer does not have to be played in a hostile manner that is evil.

Unlike stories of violence in books or movies, American football involves actual violence and often physical injury–including brain damaging ones that are often not obvious for years:

According to the folks at TMZ, 75 former NFL players have sued the league for concealing the risks of concussions.  The plaintiffs include former Dolphins receiver Mark Duper (pictured), former Giants and Cardinals running back Ottis Anderson, and former Giants running back Rodney Hampton.  Helmet manufacturer Riddell also is named as a defendant in the lawsuit, which was filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court.

The challenge for the plaintiffs will be to prove that the NFL actually knew, or reasonably should have known, the chronic, long-term risks of concussions.  Clear links between concussions and long-term health problems have been established only recently, and the league has responded fairly aggressively (especially after a shot across the bow from Congress) to the problem. (Florio M. Report: NFL sued for concealing brain injury risks. NBC Sports, July 19, 2011. http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/07/19/report-nfl-sued-for-concealing-brain-injury-risks/)

Before the former American football player Dave Duerson killed himself, he asked that his brain be left to researchers studying head injuries among athletes. What it revealed shocked the scientists… The lapses in memory, the mood swings, the piercing headaches on the left side of his head, the difficulty spelling simple words, the blurred eyesight. And hanging over it all was his fear that both his material and physical decline might not be coincidental, that they might have been caused by injuries to his brain suffered playing the game he loved so much – football…

McKee takes a deep look at the cross-section of this brain and momentarily appears sad. “This is a brain at the end-stage of disease,” she says. “I would assume that with this amount of damage the person was very cognitively impaired. I would assume they were demented, had substantial problems with their speech and gait, that this person was Parkinsonian, was slow to speak and walk, if he could walk at all.” (Pilkington E. The NFL star and the brain injuries that destroyed him. The Guardian, July 19, 2011. http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2011/jul/19/nfl-star-brain-injuries-destroyed)

Now how widespread brain damage from playing football is can be debated (and probably will be). But everyone has to know that crashing into other human beings in order to knock them down and/or stop them from running or throwing is not harmless.

While “love does no harm to a neighbor” (Romans 13:9), what do sports like American football and boxing do?

This is something that Christians, and others, should think about.

For more scriptures, as well as the position of early Christians and others on watching violent sports or participating in other violent pursuits, please see the following:

Is American Football Evil? Is the most popular spectator sport in the USA something that Christians should watch? What do the Bible and early writings show?  This is the first time I have announced this article on this new page and it contains not only my views, but many quotes that Christians, as well as people who claim to be, should think about.  Do you really want to know the answer to the question the title asks?  If not, why not?
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare? Here are current and historical perspectives on a matter which show the beliefs of the true church on military participation. Is war proper for Christians?

India

COGwriter

While many in the West are discussing the upcoming 10th anniversary of 9/11/01, some terrorists took action today in India:

India bombing kills 11 outside New Delhi courthouse

‎Los Angeles Times – Mark Magnier – 7 September 2011
India’s deadliest bomb attack in three years, which also injures more than 65, underscores the country’s poor response to terrorist threats, analysts say.  A Pakistan-linked Islamist group purportedly claims responsibility.

With civil unrest in Greece last weekend, protests in Europe, violence in the Middle East & Africa, flash mobs in the USA & UK, and another bombing in India, has peace been taken from the earth (cf. Revelation 6:3-4)?  Pakistan is having its own problems with a variety of factions going in seemingly different directions (including that that seem intent on provoking war).

Since I mentioned 9/11/01, perhaps the following should also be mentioned:

India Still Feels Aftershocks of 9/11

More than 30 Indians were killed in the attack on the World Trade Center; some worked in the building, others were aboard the ill-fated airplanes that were flown into the towers….

Last, there was little surprise in India that bin Laden had been discovered in a military town in Pakistan, so close to the shadowy halls of power. Indeed, the site of bin Laden’s death was, if anything, even more meaningful than the fact of his death, and stripped bare the naivete of the U.S. decision to make Pakistan an ally in the “war on terror.” http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-09-07/india-still-feels-aftershocks-of-9-11-choudhury.html

Since Islamists are supposed to be religious, then presuming that the terrorists are Muslims as claimed for today’s bombing, perhaps they (and those involved with 9/11) should study the Ten Commandments and what the rest of the Bible teaches?

Notice one such teaching from a book the Muslims are supposed to respect:

18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 Therefore

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.  (Romans 12:18-21)

Terrorists obviously do not believe the written word of God, or they would not ignore what the Apostle Paul was inspired to write there.

We live in perilous times (cf. 2 Timothy 3:1).

Several articles of possibly-related prophetic interest may include:

India, Its Biblical Past and Future: Any Witness? The Bible discusses the origins of those of Indian heritage and discusses some of the witness to them (including those in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka).
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? There is a Mayan calendar prediction for change in 2012. 2012 changes were also centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans (the Hindus may have some predictions for the next decade as well). Do these Mayan/Hindu/Hopi prophecies have any value? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start before 2012?
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? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Are the Ten Commandment Still in Effect? This article quotes the ten commandments and combines some of the previous articles into one article about the ten commandments. The commandments are shown at Mount Sinai, before Mount Sinai, in the teachings of Jesus, after the crucifixion, and in the teachings of Paul. It addresses the most common “traditions of men” regarding them as well.
Were the Pharisees Condemned for Keeping the Law or Reasoning Around it? Many believe that the Pharisees were condemned for keeping the law, but what does your Bible say? If they were not condemned for that, what were they condemned for?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?
Was the Commandment to Love the Only Command? Some have stated that John’s writings teach this, but is that what the Bible really says?
The Ten Commandments and the Early Church Did Jesus and the Early Church keep the ten commandments? What order were they in? Here are quotes from the Bible and early writings.
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare? Here are current and historical perspectives on a matter which show the beliefs of the true church on military participation. Is war proper for Christians?  Does the New Testament advocate violence or living peaceably for Christians?

Greek Riots, 2008

COGwriter

UBS, a Swiss-based bank, had some interesting comments about the Euro:

“Under the current structure and with the current membership, the Euro does not work,” he said. “Either the current structure will have to change, or the current membership will have to change.”  http://www.cnbc.com/id/44405106

“If Germany were to leave, we believe the cost to be around €6,000 (£5,250) to €8,000 for every German adult and child in the first year, and a range of €3,500 to €4,500 per person per year thereafter. That is the equivalent of 20% to 25% of GDP in the first year…We note that almost no modern fiat currency monetary unions have broken up without some form of authoritarian or military government, or civil war.”  http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2011/sep/06/quitting-euro-greece-portugal-ubs

The Bible is clear that the Europeans will restructure:

12 “The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast. 13 These are of one mind, and they will give their power and authority to the beast.  (Revelation 17:12-13)

Additionally, in my book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect, I discussed the possibility of civil unrest and/or civil war breaking out in Europe as that is consistent with both biblical and certain non-biblical prophecy. Here are a couple of captions from my 2009 book about that:

Some believe that God will punish the nominal Catholics with civil unrest and war in Europe. As there already has been civil unrest in Europe (and according to secular sources, more is expected), it is possible that the following (to some degree) also may come to pass:..

Monk Hilarion (15^th century): “The people of the peninsula of Europe will suffer by needless wars…”

Brother Louis Rocco (19th century): “All over Europe there will rage terrible civil wars…A Great Monarch will arise after a period of terrible wars and persecutions in Europe.”

Some believe this civil unrest will result in the rise of a militaristic leader who will quell that particular violence, establish a new religious order, and reign with a pope who will perform miracles…

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

The descriptions of the Great Monarch/Prince in many ways parallel the description of one the Bible refers to as the “prince” in Daniel 9:26–27, final “King of the North” in Daniel 11:27–45…

World events are aligning with prophecy.   There were protests in Greece last weekend.  Future protests may turn quite violent and this may be a major trigger for the rise of the prophesied final King of the North.

There will be ups and downs in Europe until the final European beast power rises up.

The Bible is clear that although there will be problems with the unnatural combination that we now call Europe, that it still will rise up. Notice:

40 And the fourth kingdom shall be as strong as iron, inasmuch as iron breaks in pieces and shatters everything; and like iron that crushes, that kingdom will break in pieces and crush all the others. 41 Whereas you saw the feet and toes, partly of potter’s clay and partly of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; yet the strength of the iron shall be in it, just as you saw the iron mixed with ceramic clay. 42 And as the toes of the feet were partly of iron and partly of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong and partly fragile. 43 As you saw iron mixed with ceramic clay, they will mingle with the seed of men; but they will not adhere to one another, just as iron does not mix with clay. 44 And in the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever. 45 Inasmuch as you saw that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it broke in pieces the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver, and the gold — the great God has made known to the king what will come to pass after this. The dream is certain, and its interpretation is sure. (Daniel 2:40-45)

Notice that according to what it written in the Book of Daniel, a kingdom will arise that does not adhere well together–yet that it is certain to rise up anyway. Also notice that afterwards, the Kingdom of God will come and that the kingdoms of the world will be destroyed–and that is sure.

It is interesting to note that a secular source, like a Swiss bank, has realized that restructure and civil unrest are probably in Europe’s future.  I, of course, have been saying a version of that all along.  And the rise of military actions and/or civil war/unrest in Europe will not bode well for the USA and its Anglo-allies (Daniel 11:39).

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?
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.
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 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?
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 about Jerusalem? 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?
Canada in Prophecy: What Does Bible Prophecy, Catholic Prophecy, and other Predictions Suggest About the Future of Canada? There are prophecies that suggest involvement with Canada. And many are not positive about its future.
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? 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect This is a link related to a book by Bob Thiel (COGwriter). This also has YouTube videos. This book documents and explains hundreds of prophecies. And since it was published, many have already started to come to pass.
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.
2012 y el surgimiento de la secta secreta 2012 libro del Dr. Thiel en Español.
2012 und das Auftreten der geheimen Sekte (German Edition) 2012 Buch von Dr. Thiel in deutscher Sprache.
2012 e o Surgimento da Seita Secreta (Portuguese Edition) 2012 livro do Dr. Thiel em Português. Este livro documenta e explica centenas de profecias. E desde que foi publicado pela primeira vez, pelo menos 14 já começaram a acontecer.
2012 e o Surgimento da Seita Secreta (Brazilian Portuguese Edition) 2012 livro do Dr. Thiel.  Edição em português do Brasil. Este livro documenta e explica centenas de profecias. E desde que foi publicado pela primeira vez, pelo menos 16 já começaram a acontecer.

COGwriter

In his commentary for today, LCG’s Davy Crockett (a descendant of the famous American with that name) wrote:

Commentary: Almost Persuaded

By Davy Crockett | Tuesday, September 06, 2011

Many wonderful quotations are attributed to Sir Winston Churchill, the great British Prime Minister who had such a profound effect on the 20th century. His irrepressible sense of humor, his tenacity in the face of great danger, his oratory and his writing ability set him apart as an influential historical figure. One quote he is noted for is, “Most people stumble over the truth, now and then, but they usually manage to pick themselves up and go on, anyway.”

It does seem that Churchill was correct in his assessment—as we so often see when people come into contact with the eternal truths found in the Bible. Millions of people see, hear and read the message of Scripture that the Tomorrow’s World telecast, magazine and Web site present to the world, proclaiming the Gospel of the soon-coming Kingdom of God. This is the same message Jesus Christ taught and the Apostles and earliest Christians spread, and we spread it by Christ’s instruction: “‘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, 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.’ Amen” (Matthew 28:19-20).

Our television program is now seen in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, and we now are beginning to reach the Chinese people with television from Hong Kong. Yet, only a relative few people actually respond to these matters of spiritual importance. This was true in the first century, and remains true today.

Not only do most people ignore or reject Christ’s message, the messengers are often met with resistance and even persecution. The Apostle Paul was harassed and finally arrested and imprisoned for carrying out this commission. In one moving chapter in the action packed book of Acts, Paul was given the opportunity to defend himself before King Agrippa. Paul seized the opportunity and made an eloquent, powerful defense of the Truth and the Plan of God before his accusers. You can read the whole story in the book of Acts (25:13-26:1-28). At the end of his closing statement, King Agrippa said to Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.”

Of course, since Christ’s message would have people make changes in their lives, and would require them to put into practice the words of the Bible, it is no wonder that people resist. And this is not a new phenomenon. Anciently, Joshua, the leader of the Israelites after the death of Moses, faced his people as they faltered in indecision. He asked the Israelites to “choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

Later, the prophet Elijah, in a confrontation with the pagan priests of his time, addressed the people with these words. “How long will you falter between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him.” But the people answered him not a word” (1 Kings 18:21).

Even the most wonderful knowledge is of no value unless it is both recognized and acted upon. How about you? As a viewer and reader of Christ’s message, are you “almost persuaded”? Or, will you muster the courage and conviction to join with us in fulfilling the commission given to us by the Messiah just before He ascended to be with the Father?

Perhaps you have questions. If so, we are here to answer them. We have ministers all over the world who will be happy to contact you and answer your questions. If you would like to talk with a true minister of Jesus Christ, go to the Contact Us form on this site and request a visit. In the meantime, read our article, “What Should the Church Be Doing?” for an overview of the Church’s mission in this present age.

If you are persuaded, please do what needs to be done.

Are you ‘almost persuaded’?

If so, perhaps you should consider praying and studying so that the proper persuasion can be complete.

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

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.
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 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?
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.

COGwriter

There is a new book to be officially released next week titled Europe, Globalization, and the Coming Universal Caliphate.  Here are comments from a couple of reviewers:

“No writer has done more than Bat Ye’or to draw attention to the menacing character of Islamic extremism. Future historians will one day regard her coinage of the term ‘Eurabia’ as prophetic. Those who wish to live in a free society must be eternally vigilant. Bat Ye’or’s vigilance is unrivalled.” -Niall Ferguson

“Ordinary people who are still in the dark about the way the Euro-Arab Dialogue is refashioning their lives may one day rebel, in which case Bat Ye’or and this book will seem prophetic. Or they may sink helplessly into dhimmitude, in which case Bat Ye’or will be ignored and her book unobtainable. Either way, she is a Cassandra, a brave and far-sighted spirit.” -David Pryce-Jones

While the Bible shows that the Europeans will make deals with the Arabs (Psalm 83:2-8; Daniel 11:27; 9:27), “Eurabia” will only be obtained in the sense that the Europeans will end up dominating the Arab lands (Daniel 11:40-43) and, later all areas eventually by the Kingdom of God (Daniel 2:40-45).

Europe, to a degree and not Islam, will globalize the world until it has problems (Daniel 11:44-45) and Jesus returns.  Actually, by developing a variety of international standards related to the trade and production of goods, Europe is starting even now to globalize parts of the world–and this will intensify.

Passages, however, in the book, Europe, Globalization, and the Coming Universal Caliphate, have caused some concerns from Diana West who wrote:

What would a U.N.-ordained Palestinian state have to do with global jihad? Practically everything, because such statehood would mark a major victory in the long war on Israel’s existence…I’ve never been more convinced of this than after reading four, clarifying pages of Bat Ye’or’s new book…In a first-chapter primer on the relationship between the European Union and the Organization of the Islamic Conference, much of which revolves around mutual animus toward Israel…Bat Ye’or believes “the destruction of Christianity’s sustaining Jewish roots (would) facilitate its Islamization.”  http://www.israelnationalnews.com/Articles/Article.aspx/10581

Although I have not read much of the non-officially released Europe, Globalization, and the Coming Universal Caliphate book, here is a line from page 107 of it:

In the twenty-first century we are reliving a replica and restoration of the Islamic Caliphate of seventh century through the approval and pliability of Western leaders.

It is interesting that the author notes that the “pliability of Western leaders” is assisting in the rise of an Islamic Caliphate.  The USA itself has seemed to back the Muslim Brotherhood in various Arab nations, and the Brotherhood specifically wants a multi-national Islamic state, known as a caliphate. Trouble in many Arab nations may be just the background needed for the Muslim Brotherhood to either rise up and/or to support others who share similar objectives (see, for example, Sheik Shehato: ‘We Will Launch a Campaign of Islamic Conquest’).

In Europe, Globalization, and the Coming Universal Caliphate, although the Muslim Brotherhood is sometimes mentioned, the author tends to believe that a 57 nation group known as the OIC (Organization of the Islamic Conference) can facilitate the rise of the Caliphate.  This is likely, at least, to a degree.  Basically, the portions of the book I have seen seem to indicate that the people in the nations of the European Union do not realize that they are losing their sovereignty, and that Islam has plans.

Of course, if there is a caliphate, then there needs to be a caliph.  Those of us in the Living Church of God have known that an Islamic leader like that (sometimes called the Imam Mahdi when the religious aspect of his leadership is emphasized) will rise up, who will be the final biblical King of the South:

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

Al Qaeda named its Internet newscast, which debuted in September, ‘The Voice of the Caliphate.’…Kerem Acar, a tailor in central Istanbul {said} ‘…one day maybe my children’s children will see someone declare himself the caliph, like the pope, and have an impact’” (January 14, 2006).  Indeed, a coming “Mahdi” whose arrival Muslims are expecting—in Bible prophecy known as the “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40–45)—will soon arise and have a dramatic impact on world events. This powerful Muslim religious leader will unite many of the more than one billion Muslims. He will pose a genuine threat to the coming European Empire, which will have to crush that threat in order to continue exploiting Middle Eastern oil to further its military ambitions. (Meredith RC. Prophecy Fulfilled: God’s Hand in World Affairs. LCG Booklet, 2007, pp. 16-17)

Opinion polls show that significant majorities in many Arab countries favor the establishment of Sharia law, derived from the Qur’an and centuries of Muslim jurisprudence. Several nations, such as Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Sudan and Yemen already have Sharia law in some form. Others, such as Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Pakistan, Syria, Qatar and United Arab Emirates, mix Sharia with other systems. To the great surprise of many Western analysts, University of Maryland researchers polled Arab nations and found that substantial majorities in Pakistan, Egypt and Morocco favored the establishment of the Caliphate—which would mean autocratic Islamist rule!  Far from voting to establish liberal, Western-style democracies, Middle Eastern countries—if they are given the chance to vote— could very well choose Islamist governments like those of Gaza or Iran. Rather than establish a liberal democracy, the current democratic movements in Middle Eastern Islam could very well bring on a charismatic leader to establish a Caliphate and rule autocratically. What Western politicians hope will be the “Arab Spring” may turn out to be the “Islamic Winter.” (Wakefield D.  Nine-Eleven Plus Ten.  Tomorrow’s World magazine, September-October 2011, p. 24).

Whether known as a caliph, Mahdi, or some type of king/president/emperor/etc., ultimately the Bible tells of an Arabic confederation that will rise up with a leader (Daniel 11:40-43).

But the Bible is also clear that the Arab world will not be the one that will dominate Europe as that is something that Russia, China, and their Asian allies will essentially ultimately do for a very short while (Daniel 11:44-45) before Jesus returns (Daniel 2:40-45).  This seems to be something that the author of Europe, Globalization, and the Coming Universal Caliphate did not realize–but it is also something that we can all count on.

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?
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.
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?
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?
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?

COGwriter

Sorrows are happening and many homes in Texas have burned:

Many parts of the USA are suffering from drought as are parts of Africa and other lands.  But in Texas, the winds from Tropical Storm Lee have resulted in an increase in wildfires.  Droughts can tribute to famines, and foods do not grow in fires.

My 2009 book, 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect mentioned the following was about to happen:

Odd weather patterns result in food shortages and natural disasters.

Matthew 24:7

The world is actually in a berserk transition, as the real age of peace is not yet here.  It may be a period of chaos.  It is the beginning of sorrows

Matthew 24:8

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric administration, there have been 10 major disasters this year. In the past 31 years the mainland states have suffered 99 weather-related disasters where overall damages and economic costs were over $1bn. This year has seen three times as many than as usual. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/sep/05/us-unprecedented-weather-extremes

Perhaps the record weather problems can serve as another wake-up call.  As my book indicated, weather-related troubles with their related food issues, of course, are biblically expected:

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

8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows. (Mark 13:8)

Now there is good news as ultimately, God’s kingdom will come and those issues will be gone:

16 They shall neither hunger anymore nor thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any heat; 17 for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. (Revelation 7:16-17)

And while that is true, a terrible hour of trial is coming first (Revelation 3:10), and the USA itself (as well as Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand also) will experience significant starvation in its land (cf. Ezekiel 5:15-17).  And this, sadly, will also include Texas.

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.
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?
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? 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?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? Eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. This article 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 on this page on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
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?

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

COGwriter

An Israeli general believes a regional war in the Middle East may be somewhat near:

IDF general: Likelihood of regional war growing

Basically, Israel is worried that the situation in many of the Arab states will become more chaotic and that this could lead to regional war. I have been writing since the start of the “Arab Spring” that I felt that the governments that many of the Arab nations would get would not satisfy their peoples, and that this would likely lead to other conflict and the acceptance of a pan-national Islamic leader (Daniel 11:40).  As I have written before, I suspect that there may need to be a war in the Middle East for a prophesied peace deal (Daniel 9:27) to take place, though a specific war is not absolutely required (Palestinian actions related to the proposal to the UN this month to be recognized as an independent state could, for example, trigger enough protests that a larger war might not be necessary for such a deal).

At this time, it is also possible that Syria, for example, may launch with Iran’s concurrence, an attack against Israel, which could result in Syria (Isaiah 17:1-6) becoming devastated and Iran at least weakened (if not worse).

The USA itself has seemed to back the Muslim Brotherhood in various Arab nations, and the Brotherhood wants a multi-national Islamic state, known as a caliphate.  Trouble in many Arab nations may be just the background needed for the Muslim Brotherhood to either rise up and/or to support others who share similar objectives (see, for example, Sheik Shehato: ‘We Will Launch a Campaign of Islamic Conquest’).

As a general rule, the Arab League itself is made up of countries that are primarily Sunni Muslims, while Iran is primarily Shi’ite Muslim (as is Iraq; Yemen is about 45% Shi’ite).  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 Sunni’s tend to look for an Arab to be a Caliph (who some consider to be the Imam Mahdi), while the Shiites tend to look for an Iranian or Arab to become the Imam Mahdi.   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.

Of course, there has been chaos/flux in Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Tunisia, Syria, and other parts of the Arab world (Iran’s President Ahmadinejad has even claimed that the Imam Mahdi has caused some of it, see Mahmoud Ahmadinejad: World Order About to Collapse, Mahdi Behind it).

The Europeans have taken steps to encourage the Assad government of Syria to fall (see Syrian Protestors More Determined; EU Now Supporting Their Cause, But…).  Syria, which is an ally of Iran, may decide soon to support/cause some of the chaos that Iran believes is necessary for the Imam Mahdi to rise up, perhaps hoping that this will reduce the protests it is currently dealing with in its land (as well to perhaps persuade Iran to provide it more support since the Europeans are sanctioning it).  Being part of an attack against Israel may be a way Syria might believe could take attention away from its domestic problems and more against Israel, essentially a nation that Syria technically is still at war with (Syria has not signed a peace agreement with Israel since the 1973 war).

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.  Whether or not it will be in a regional war this Fall or Winter will be seen.

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?
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?
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?