Church of God News

Herman Van Rompuy

COGwriter

It is getting clear to more and more that Germany is taking the lead in Europe:

Spiegel – Oct 31, 1011

Last Wednesday’s summit in Brussels took important steps toward saving the European common currency. But it also made it clear that the European Union is being divided in two. Germany is the new Europe’s leader — for better or worse.

European Council President Herman Van Rompuy could no longer avoid the embarrassing and unpleasant task of throwing out 10 people…They were all proud people, the sort who usually do the throwing out themselves: national leaders like British Prime Minister David Cameron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk — all from the 10 countries that are part of the European Union but don’t use the euro. http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/0,1518,795059,00.html

For many decades, we in the Living Church of God have taught that Germany would lead a coming European Beast power.  And while Europe still has problems, and scripturally always will (cf. Daniel 2:40-43).

We have also taught that the United Kingdom should realize that it will be on the outs with the Europeans and that they would ultimately takeover and control Britain.  What recently happened is simply another step in that direction.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

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

COGwriter

CGOM-UK’s Nov-Dec 2011 e-newsletter arrived today.  In it, James McBride had the following:

Prophetic Caution
The current economic crisis that affects so many of us coupled with ‘the Arab Spring’, world over-population, acute shortages of food and water and rampant disease have generated a rash of articles on Bible prophecy. Much focus is on December 2012—a date disputed by others. What should you make of it?

One certainty of Bible prophecy that is writ large in Scripture, however, is that ‘the age of man’ is about to close. Humanity is ‘lord of misrule’ of our planet since records began, but that misrule ends soon. The Messiah, Jesus, will return to establish the rule of the Kingdom of God.

Of course, CGOM is correct that the ‘age of man’ is about to close.  And that Jesus will return to establish the Kingdom of God.

But on the matters of 2012 and the Arab Spring, I would like to state that there is prophetic certainty on both of those points.

The Bible is absolutely clear that the world cannot end on December 21, 2012.  The Great Tribulation itself cannot start before 2015 and I really do not believe that it is at all likely to start prior to 2016.

As far as the Arab Spring goes, we can be certain that biblical prophecy will be fulfilled and that what has happened throughout the Arab nations in the past year are setting the stage for the rise of the final King of the South (Daniel 11:40).

Of course, there is much more that is certain about 2012, the King of the South, and many other prophetic events.  Those who have not done so, may wish to read my book  2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect as world events have already aligned with at least 17 Bible-based predictions that the book contains.

As we appear to be in the time that Jesus referred to as “the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:5-8), this is a good time to pay attention to the “sure word of prophecy” (2 Peter 1:19, KJV), that my book  2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect attempts to convey and lay out in a manner that many have said that they have been able to benefit from.

For those of you who may wish to see what the late night radio personality Erksine thought of the book, here are a couple of things he wrote about it:

Dr. Bob Thiel has published scores of articles and received numerous awards for his research. His latest book 2012: and the Rise of the Secret Sect is an astonishing revelation of ancient prophecies and their relevance today.  It was TERRIFIC reading the book. It’s the BEST I’ve seen on 2012.  Dr. Thiel REALLY does his research. Also, the photos in the book his wife took are exquisite.

The fact that world events have aligned with many predictions in the book was impressive to him. My primary focus in that book on what would likely happen during the years 2012 through 2020. But of course, for many of the events to occur, other world events need to align themselves for them to come to pass.  Many outside the Church of God are impressed when they learn that world events have aligned with so many prophecies we have explained.

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

2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect This is a link related to a book by Bob Thiel (COGwriter). This book documents and explains hundreds of prophecies. And since it was published, at least 17 have already started to come to pass.  Those who order the book from the 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect link will receive a lengthy bonus report documenting events that have aligned with the predictions in the book.
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 17 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 17 já começaram a acontecer.

COGwriter

Halloween is often considered as a Catholic holiday, but within Catholicism there are different views of it, and there are differing views in other groups.

Here is the view of one Catholic writer endorsing Halloween:

It should be noted that Halloween is a Catholic holiday. Pope Gregory IV in 835 made it the universal practice in the Roman Catholic Church to celebrate All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1. All Souls’ Day follows the next day as the commemoration of all of the faithful who have departed.

“All Hallows’ Even” as the evening before All Hallows’ Day — All Saints’ Day – eventually became shortened to Halloween. Hallow, as in “hallowed be thy name” in the Lord’s Prayer, is an older form of the word “holy.”

It was the Protestant Reformation that rejected the universal practice of devotion to the dead (Martin Luther dropped any references to praying for the dead from his Bible). This Catholic holiday was attacked, much like the church as a whole, for being pagan and evil. Hence I wouldn’t be surprised if this cloud of suspicion hovering over Halloween originated from the spirit of anti-Catholicism.

But Nov. 1st was the day of the Celtic Summer’s End feast of Samhain, the day when the dead returned to the earth. We have retained some of these pagan elements to Halloween, as is true of Christmas and Easter.

Why would a pope put the Catholic celebration of the dead on top of the pagans’ celebrations of the dead? Because the Catholic feasts are in continuity and fulfill the meaning of the pagan ones…

So what about the indulgence in the spooky and scary? Skeletons are spooky, but they are also very Catholic. In fact, one couldn’t find a better haunted house for a Halloween pilgrimage than the various “chapel of bones” that can be found across Europe (Killian Brian. Halloween, as autumn celebration, reminder God’s name is hallowed. Catholic Online International News. 10/31/06. http://www.catholic.org/international/international_story.php?id=21818).

While the above author claims that anti-Catholic sentiments are perhaps the reason for objections to Halloween, it should be noted that more recently other Catholic leaders have condemned it, while Protestant supporters, like some of those at Christianity Today endorse its observance and attempt to profit commercially from it (for specific see the recent article American’s Expected to Spend Nearly $7 Billion on Halloween, CT Wants its Share).

Interestingly, the powerful Roman Catholic archdiocese in Mexico City publicly condemned Halloween observance as pagan in 2007, though it is still being observed by many practicing Catholics there:

Mexico’s Roman Catholic church slammed Halloween as “damaging and against the faith” on Monday, as conservatives sought to stem celebration of the ghouls-and-goblins holiday and return to the country’s traditional Day of the Dead.

The U.S.-style holiday has made broad inroads in Mexico, with monster costumes almost as widely sold as the marigold flowers traditionally used to decorate relatives’ graves during Nov. 1-2 Day of the Dead ceremonies, when families build altars and leave food, drink and flowers for the dearly departed.

“Those who celebrate Halloween are worshipping a culture of death that is the product of a mix of pagan customs,” the Archdiocese of Mexico published in an article on its Web site Monday. “The worst thing is that this celebration has been identified with neo-pagans, Satanism and occult worship.”

The archdiocese urged parents not to let their children wear Halloween costumes or go trick-or-treating — instead suggesting Sunday school classes to “teach them the negative things about Halloween,” costume parties where children can dress up as Biblical characters, and candy bags complete with instructions to give friends a piece while telling them “God loves you.”…

Pre-Hispanic cultures celebrated a similar holiday in August, but after the Spanish conquest, historians say the date was changed to Nov. 1 to coincide with the Catholic holiday…

In another article, Onesimo Herrera-Flores complained that “Halloween, for a variety of reasons, has imposed itself on other nations, displacing native customs.”

Celebrating Halloween, he said, citing a church authority, is “like inviting Satan into your home.” (Mexico’s Catholic church slams Halloween; conservatives call for return to Day of Dead. Associated Press – Oct 29, 2007 http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/10/29/america/LA-GEN-Mexico-Church-Halloween.php

In 2009, the Vatican itself took steps to condemn Halloween:

Vatican condemns Hallowe’en as anti-Christian

The Vatican has condemned Hallowe’en as anti-Christian, saying it is based on a sinister and dangerous “undercurrent of occultism”.

Telegraph – Oct 30, 2009

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/religion/6467253/Vatican-condemns-Halloween-as-anti-Christian.html

It is good when religious leaders discourage those who profess Christ from observing pagan holidays with pagan practices. Yet, most Catholics I have spoken with in Southern California seem not to be aware of Vatican condemnations of it.

While I do not believe those in the following report have gone far enough to remove all vestiges of paganism, some in Italy are attempting to have less of the Celtic pagan elements in their observance this year:

Catholic group shuns Halloween for ‘Holyween’

– Wed Oct 27, 10:29 am ET

ROME (AFP) – As trick-or-treaters dig out their witch costumes, cut scowling faces into pumpkins and hone their apple-bobbing skills, young Catholic parishioners throughout Italy are preparing for “Holyween”.

Instead of dressing up as black cats or zombies, young faithful from some 30 Italian cities will spend October 31 hanging pictures of saints from their windows and balconies to celebrate the eve of All Saint’s Day…

From Turin to Palermo, residents and mayors are also preparing feast days with local cakes and biscuits like Ossa dei Morti (Bones of the Dead), with regional variations made with almonds, pine nuts, vanilla or chocolate.

“Halloween isn’t part of our identity,” the mayor of Calalzo di Cadore, near Venice, told ANSA news agency. Instead, the town will be hosting a ‘food marathon’ of local delicacies until late into the night. http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20101027/od_afp/italyholidayhalloweenreligionoffbeat

Halloween is pagan and leaders in many professing Christian churches know this. And some people are questioning some of it pagan practices.

From the Worldwide Church of God

The old Worldwide Church of God clearly taught against the observation of Halloween as can be shown below:

What about you and your children? What comes to your mind when thinking about Hallowe’en? The truth of the Bible? Not at all! Instead, weird and FRIGHTENING MASKS — persons PORTRAYED AS WITCHES AND DEMONS. Pumpkins and turnips hollowed out in the shape of EERIE-LOOKING faces! Lighted candles are placed inside to help bring out the more frightful side of these carvings. Dough is baked into small figurines RESEMBLING WITCHES AND SPIDER’S WEB CAKES are baked by the dozen for this occasion. Children, dressed up in the most revolting garments, are let loose on the neighbors, trying to scare the daylights out of them. Let’s be honest. I have before me the Good Housekeeping’s Book of Entertainment, which my wife picked up from the local library. On page 168 of this much-read book, there is a section on what to do on Hallowe’en. Notice the astonishing advice given! “Halloween decorations are quite as important as the food. When planning them, remember that if the room is to be dimly lit (preferably by candle and FIRELIGHT) the decorations must be bold to be effective. Orange, black and red, THE DEVIL’S COLOURS, are the colours associated with Halloween and THIS SCHEME SHOULD BE CARRIED OUT as far as possible . . . . Have paper streamers and lanterns hanging from the ceiling, or, if you would like to have something less usual, you could make a giant SPIDER’S web with black and orange strings, or in narrow strips of crepe paper coming from the four corners of the room, complete with a LARGE SPIDER — one of the DEVIL’S FAVOURITE FOLLOWERS.” Notice where the stress lies! Read further of the black magic associated with this festival. “To decorate the walls, make large silhouettes of CATS, BATS, OWLS AND WITCHES ON BROOMSTICKS . . . . For the supper table small WITCHES WITH BROOMSTICKS can be made by using lollipops on 4-inch sticks.” Weird lanterns, witch-balls, and witches’ cauldrons are some other objects, the book suggests, which must fit into the evening somehow. How pagan can you get?

NOWHERE does the Bible command us to observe Hallowe’en. Hallowe’en and other common festivals which people observe in the Christian-professing world have NO BIBLICAL BASIS. They originated in paganism. The testimony of history stamps Hallowe’en as a HEATHEN festival. It’s built on a PAGAN FOUNDATION. Your Bible warns: “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (I Cor. 3:11). Which is the BASIS of YOUR practice and belief? Turn to Deuteronomy 12:29-31 and read God’s condemnation of Hallowe’en! (Marx, Gerhard O. The Origin of Halloween. Plain Truth Magazine, October 1967).

The above condemnation of such pagan practices are consistent with the teachings in the Bible irrespective of the opinions of men. The Bible teaches:

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Do not be carried about with various and strange doctrines (Hebrews 13:8-9).

Certainly Halloween contains many pagan practices that Christians should realize are “strange doctrines” and it was not observed by the original Christians. Therefore, irrespective of the opinions and later traditions of men, true Christians still do not celebrate pagan holidays like Halloween. The Bible itself teaches that we should listen to the Bible above added traditions and opinions of men.

Yet, GCI, the group that took over the old WCG takes a different approach:

The day does have religious significance for some people, particularly wiccans and druids. For some people and in some regions, Halloween or some of its elements may have a non-Christian religious meaning. Some Halloween activities could be considered anti-Christian, and would, therefore, be avoided. Christians would want to avoid demonic associations, for example. With these things in mind, it would be appropriate for Christians to consider carefully their activities on this holiday.

For most children, however, there is no religious significance involved in either the day itself or in such elements as pumpkins or costumes. It’s true that such things as jack-o’-lanterns, bonfires and black cats, which are part of the Halloween tradition, may have roots in pre-Christian activities…

Most Christians believe they can celebrate Halloween (in some respects) as a purely secular day of fun…

Should Christians and their children participate in Halloween activities if they are unsure whether it is the right thing to do or are convinced it is wrong? The Bible teaches us that we should be fully persuaded in our own minds about these things—either pro or con. But we should not judge or condemn others who are of a different persuasion. The apostle Paul’s advice in Romans 14 can be applied to the question of Halloween activities…

It is the responsibility of each Christian to decide, based on biblical and Christian principles, whether to participate in Halloween activities, and to avoid judging other Christians who have different circumstances and make different decisions.

So, GCI is ambiguous.  And it needn’t be.

For example, when it stated “that such things as jack-o’-lanterns, bonfires and black cats, which are part of the Halloween tradition, may have roots in pre-Christian activities,” it could have stated that they they DO (not may) have pre-Christian, pagan roots, as none have a biblical origin (though jack-o’-lanterns may have began after Christ came, jack-o’-lanterns are not a Christian symbol).

Furthermore, most real Christians do not believe that they can celebrate pagan holidays.

Origins from the Living Church of God and the Church of Rome

In a commentary the Living Church of God had the following:

Commentary: Halloween – a treat or a trick?

By Roger Meyer (guest columnist) | Thursday, October 28, 2010

Tens of millions of children the world over are getting ready to dress up in strange costumes and scary-faced masks to go door to door and beg for candy treats by saying, “Trick or treat!” At the same time, teens and adults are also getting ready to attend parties and gatherings to celebrate this strange holiday by donning costumes that are ghoulish, bizarre or risqué…

From Egypt to Central and South America, this night was celebrated as the festival of the dead. In Ireland, this pagan Celtic festival celebrated on October 31st at sundown was known as Samhain. It was believed that the border between this world and the world of the dead became so thin at this time that the spirits of the dead, as well as other supernatural entities, could pass to this world, making communication with departed loved ones easy at this time. It was a night of superstitions, divinations, incantations and odd traditions.

Divination was practiced as a means to determine such things as the identity of one’s future spouse and how many children they might have. Apples were often used in these rituals, owing to the ancient sagas telling of the Celtic Otherworld wherein was located the apple tree whose fruit had magical properties.

Samhain continues to be celebrated today by neo-pagan Wiccans who consider it one of the principal religious days to honor the dead. But it is also celebrated by millions of ordinary people as a holiday named Halloween or All Saints’ Day.

Christianity attempted to convert the pagans to Christianity by attaching new meanings to the old pagan festivals. So this night of the dead was to be changed to honor the departed saints and renamed All Saints’ Day. But the pagan traditions continued unabated, as people to this day still wear costumes and masks, still carve pumpkins with scary faces, still place fake gravestones in their yard, still play games of divination, and still decorate with witches, ghosts, fake gravestones and various representations of the dead and the macabre.

Perhaps those celebrating the day have been treated to a trick by being seduced into observing a day which is thoroughly pagan in origin and practice. Read more

Speaking of “donning costumes that are ghoulish, bizarre or risqué,” notice the following related to risqué ones:

A new nationwide Clarus Poll finds that more Americans would rather dress up for Halloween as Lady Gaga and the Geico Caveman than as well-known political figures. The Clarus Poll found that, among women voters across the nation, 36% would rather go costumed as Lady Gaga, 24% picked Sarah Palin and 20% selected Michelle Obama.http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-clarus-poll-lady-gaga-and-the-politics-of-halloween-132745478.html

As everyone knows, the perennial favorite among Halloween costumes for women is “ho,” followed by “sexy witch,” “sexy nurse” and “Lady Gaga.”  http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-allen-halloween-sluts-20111030,0,6455906.story

No one can consider how “Lady Gaga” provocatively dresses to be Christian, and no true believer would ever try to follow her risqué example, or to try to directly resemble some type of harlot as many women apparently like to do now.  For those who claim that modern Halloween has nothing to do with pagan Druid practices, the reality is that intentionally immodest costumes, which are apparently very popular among American women, certainly should indicate that this is not an event for real Christians to celebrate.

All theological scholars realize that the apostolic church did not observe Halloween or anything resembling it.

Notice also the following scripture:

Thus says the LORD: “Do not learn the way of the Gentiles; Do not be dismayed at the signs of heaven,
For the Gentiles are dismayed at them. For the customs of the peoples are futile (Jeremiah 10:2-3).

At their absolute best, Halloween customs are futile, came from the way of the Gentiles, and detract from the emphasis to worship the true God. Those in the Church of God have always realized this. And many in the Church of Rome are getting some understanding of that.

Halloween is not a holiday that the earliest Christians observed. It should not be observed by modern Christians either.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians? This article provides some historical and biblical insight on this question.
Which Is Faithful: The Roman Catholic Church or the Living Church of God? Do you know that both groups shared a lot of the earliest teachings? Do you know which church changed? Do you know which group is most faithful to the teachings of the apostolic church? Which group best represents true Christianity? This documented article answers those questions. Português: Qual é fiel: A igreja católica romana ou a igreja viva do deus? Tambien Español: Cuál es fiel: ¿La iglesia católica romana o La Iglesia del Dios Viviente? Auch: Deutsch: Welches zuverlässig ist: Die Römisch-katholische Kirche oder die lebende Kirche von Gott?
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?

Vladimir Putin, Official Photograph

COGwriter

In its latest TW News & Prophecy, LCG reported that Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is continuing his quest on creating a Eurasian union:

Coming Eurasian union.

In a recent Russian Izvestia article, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin shared his vision for a Eurasian union. Mr. Putin noted this future union would include several former “Eastern Block” nations, and also nations from Asia and the Pacific Rim. His vision calls for “a close integration based on new values and economic and political foundation [that] is a demand of the present time.” Mr. Putin commented that, “Along with other key players and regional structures, such as the European Union, the United States, China and the Asia Pacific Economic Community, it should ensure stability of global development” (Associated Press, October 4, 2011).

Bible prophecy has long foretold of something very similar to Mr. Putin’s vision for a Eurasian union, but with a very different outcome! Revelation 13 and Daniel 11:40-44 indicate that an end-time European Beast power [the King of the North] will move into the Glorious Land (Israel), but the Beast will be disturbed by news from the “east and the north”–the location of Mr. Putin’s Eurasian union! Revelation 8 and 9 describe events that will take place during the final year prior to Christ’s return–the Day of the Lord. The sixth trumpet plague of Revelation 9:13-19 and Daniel 11:44 describe a 200-million-man army that will descend on Jerusalem from the East. This army will kill one-third of mankind and destroy the armies of the Beast that have occupied Jerusalem. The only nations on earth today that have the potential to muster such a vast army are located in the geographical area of this proposed Eurasian union–Russia, China, India, etc.

For mo re information on this exciting topic, read our booklet Armageddon and Beyond.

Of course, this coming Eursasian union has been reported on before from both LCG and COGwriter.  In recent months, Russia has been repeatedly trying to become stronger and gain more influence and military cooperation throughout Asia (see also Russia Strengthening Ties to China and India, Russia Strengthening Ties to Pakistan, Russia Strenthening Military Ties with North Korea, and Russia’s Putin Still Working for Eurasian Union). The final time of the Gentiles is rapidly approaching (Luke 21:24).

The Bible indicates that in the end Russia (Jeremiah 50:41-42) apparently will help lead the Kings of the East (Revelation 16:12) against the end-time European Babylonian empire (Daniel 11:44; Jeremiah 50:9). These eastern kings also include China and many other oriental nations and probably will also include India.

Notice that the Bible clearly states there is a group that will form from the far north:

3 O Gog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal…6 from the far north and all its troops–many people are with you (Ezekiel 38:3,6).

14 Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say to Gog…15…you will come from your place out of the far north… (Ezekiel 38:14-15).

1 O Gog, prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal; 2 and I will turn you around and lead you on, bringing you up from the far north (Ezekiel 39:1-2).

A Russian confederation is that only place on the planet that is in the far north and currently has massive military power. A northern confederation (that appears to be led by Russia) will destroy the European Babylon presuming this has end-time applicability:

9 For behold, I will raise and cause to come up against Babylon
An assembly of great nations from the north country,
And they shall array themselves against her;
From there she shall be captured.
Their arrows shall be like those of an expert warrior;
None shall return in vain. (Jeremiah 50:9)

41 “Behold, a people shall come from the north,
And a great nation and many kings
Shall be raised up from the ends of the earth.
42 They shall hold the bow and the lance;
They are cruel and shall not show mercy.
Their voice shall roar like the sea;
They shall ride on horses,
Set in array, like a man for the battle,
Against you, O daughter of Babylon. (Jeremiah 50:41-42)

In the New Testament it is shown that a group of nations known as the Kings of the East will form:

12 Then the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, so that the way of the kings from the east might be prepared. 13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. 14 For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 15 Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.” 16 And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon (Revelation 16:12-16).

This concept of Asian involvement in a major battle is confirmed in the Book of Revelation. Notice the following:

13 Then the sixth angel sounded: And I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, 14 saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet, “Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates.” 15 So the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind. 16 Now the number of the army of the horsemen was two hundred million; I heard the number of them. 17 And thus I saw the horses in the vision: those who sat on them had breastplates of fiery red, hyacinth blue, and sulfur yellow; and the heads of the horses were like the heads of lions; and out of their mouths came fire, smoke, and brimstone. 18 By these three plagues a third of mankind was killed–by the fire and the smoke and the brimstone which came out of their mouths(Revelation 9:13-18).

Only China, and possibly India and others in Asia, which would apparently align themselves with a Russia confederation against the European Empire, are capable of fielding a two hundred million man army

The Bible shows that a Eurasian military union will happen involving those from the north AND the east will form and frighten the European King of the North:

…the king of the North… 43 He shall have power over the treasures of gold and silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt; also the Libyans and Ethiopians shall follow at his heels. 44 But news from the east and the north shall trouble him; therefore he shall go out with great fury to destroy and annihilate many. 45 And he shall plant the tents of his palace between the seas and the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and no one will help him (Dan 11:40,43-45).

And will all of that WILL happen, it is likely that it may be proceeded by various types of economic unions and/or treaties. Such as what Vladimir Putin has been proposing.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?
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).
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?
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?
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?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch 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?

Muslim Brotherhood
الإخوان المسلمون
Al-Ikhwān Al-Muslimūn

COGwriter

The leader of the so-called moderate Muslim Brotherhood of Egypt visited Hamas and made some comments:

Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood cozies up to Hamas

Sunday, October 30, 2011

In a worrying indication of what could become of Egypt following its upcoming election, the Muslim Brotherhood sent a senior delegation to the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip…The delegation was led by Muslim Brotherhood leader Goma Amin, who said of the hundreds of blood-soaked terrorists traded for Shalit: “We came to participate in the joy at the release of brothers. We are proud of them”…

Amin said Hamas had proved that violent “resistance” against Israel was a winning tactic.

Hamas was born out of the Muslim Brotherhood as a local Palestinian branch of the movement.  http://www.israeltoday.co.il/News/tabid/178/nid/22994/language/en-US/Default.aspx

Muslim Brotherhood Visits Gaza

30 October 2011…

“This is the first delegation from the Brotherhood to visit Gaza,” said Mahmoud Ghozlan, a spokesman for the Muslim Brotherhood in Cairo.

“It wasn’t allowed before to go there at all.”

Established in 1928 in Egypt, the Muslim Brotherhood is the most powerful force in the country.

For years, the Muslim Brotherhood was banned and its leaders were repressed by governments since the 1950s.  http://www.onislam.net/english/news/middle-east/454513-muslim-brotherhood-visits-gaza.html

Egypt Brotherhood makes first visit to Hamas-led Gaza

‎fox4kc.com – Nidal al-Mughrabi – Tamim Elyan – 29 October 2011
A delegation led by deputy Brotherhood chief Goma Amin met Ismail Haniyeh…Amin told reporters. “Resistance proved itself.”

The Brotherhood, a political party which, like Hamas, regards relations with the Jewish state as anathema…http://www.fox4kc.com/news/nationworld/sns-rt-us-palestinians-egypt-brotherhoodtre79s28l-20111029,0,1932368.story

Muslim Brotherhood sends delegation to Hamas

Sarah Sheffer October 30, 2011

MB chief Goma Amin met with Hamas officials at the Council of Ministers in Gaza…Amin praised the Palestinians for their efforts and reaffirmed the party’s support for the Palestinian cause…

The Muslim Brotherhood is contesting for about 50 percent of seats in upcoming Parliamentary elections, slated to begin at the end of November.

It is considered the largest and most politically organized party in Egypt, wielding a significant grassroots capacity.  http://bikyamasr.com/46840/muslim-brotherhood-sends-delegation-to-hamas/

Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood in Gaza to Widen Terror Axis

The new Egyptian regime has allowed the Muslim Brotherhood to visit Gaza, a move that widens the Iranian-Hamas-Hizbullah terror Axis.

By Tzvi Ben Gedalyahu October 30, 2011…

deputy Brotherhood chief Goma Amin… met with de facto Gaza Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh…The Muslim Brotherhood, which spawned the Hamas terrorist organization, has enjoyed the limelight by opposing Israel while still managing to win praise in the administration of President Barack Obama.

Last February, U.S. National Intelligence Director James Clapper told a Congressional committee that that the Muslim Brotherhood was “largely secular” and was working for “a betterment of the political order in Egypt.”

He added that its agenda is not the “pursuit of violence, at least internationally.”  http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/149209#.Tq1U5rIr0XI

The Muslim Brotherhood has made great strides in 2011.  It had been outlawed in Egypt and certain other lands and now is gaining importance in Egypt, Libya, Tunisia (where the recent election there put in a party aligned with the Muslim Brotherhood this past week), Syria, and elsewhere in the Arab world.  The Barack Obama Administration in the USA has had talks with representatives of the Muslim Brotherhood this year and has taken steps to support some of the Muslim Brotherhood’s efforts in gaining political power.

Some in Egypt are trying to put together something that possibly could be ruled by the coming King of the South. Notice:

Egypt is also widening its gaze beyond Gaza. Egypt wants to lead the Arab world to create a new bloc to counter NATO, to be an alternative to the EU, a Middle East with collective power and bargaining rights. It may sound naive. It may be overly optimistic. It may ring of Egypt’s late president, Gamal Abdel Nasser, the champion of pan-Arabism. But Egypt wants to give it a try. (Engel R. Dizzying times in the Middle East: Where are we now? MSNBC, May 13, 2011. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43007360/ns/world_news-mideastn_africa/)

When the right Arab leader rises up (the final king of the South of Daniel 11:40), there is a good chance that he will be an Egyptian.  One person to watch is Gomi Amin.  While he may end up being a bit too radical for the West, he is not too radical to be eliminated from consideration to be (or at least support, which is probably more likely) the final King of the South.  Though not a young man, his views are liked by a lot of young people.

The Living Church of God has reported that the King of the South might be based out of Egypt:

The northern Sudan, anciently referred to as Cush, was once part of the Egyptian empire—a region where the future King of the South may headquarter (News and Prophecy. World Ahead Weekly Update, May 24, 2007).

Egypt probably will be the King of the South…historically they have been…The King of the South is probably Egypt or possibly Saudi Arabia (Meredith RC. Where are we now in Bible prophecy? Sermon, Charlotte, NC, April 30, 2011)

It may be of interest to note the following scriptures:

6 The burden against the beasts of the South. Through a land of trouble and anguish, From which came the lioness and lion, The viper and fiery flying serpent, They will carry their riches on the backs of young donkeys, And their treasures on the humps of camels, To a people who shall not profit; (Isaiah 30:6, NKJV)

7 Egypt is all show, no substance. My name for her is Toothless Dragon. (Isaiah 30:7, THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language)

Isaiah 30:6-7 seems to tie the “beasts of the South” with “the Egyptians”, which is further support that the Egyptians will most likely have significant involvement with the king of the South.

The United Church of God indicated (Sieglie M. Egypt in History and Prophecy. Good News, May-June 2011, p.11) that the following may be related to the King of the South:

4 And the Egyptians I will give
Into the hand of a cruel master,
And a fierce king will rule over them,
Says the Lord, the Lord of hosts. (Isaiah 19:4)

Additionally, Isaiah 31 lists the destruction of “the Egyptians” (1-3) ahead of “Assyria” (vss. 8-9), just like the Book of Daniel places the destruction of the king of the South (Daniel 11:40-43) ahead of the king of the North (11:45).

Interestingly, the Catholic saint Jerome apparently felt that the King of the South was from Egypt as he wrote about Daniel 11:

As for the Antichrist, there is no question but what he is going to fight against the holy covenant, and that when he first makes war against the king of Egypt, he shall straightway be frightened off by the assistance of the Romans… the Antichrist…shall first fight against the king of the South, or Egypt, and shall afterwards conquer Libya and Ethiopia (Jerome. Commentary on Daniel, Chapter 11. Translated by Gleason L. Archer. (1958). This text was transcribed by Roger Pearse, Ipswich, UK, 2004. http://www.ccel.org/ccel/pearse/morefathers/files/jerome_daniel_02_text.htm viewed 06/05/11)

And as far as the Muslim Brotherhood goes, notice some of what the official English-language website of the Muslim Brotherhood teaches about its history and goals:

Al-Banna was chiefly responsible for formulating the policies of this association…the idea of universal muslim state was constantly implied due to the association’s focus on Islam. While strongly disapproving of local brands of Nationalism, particularly if they were Western-inspired and secularly-minded, Banna developed his vision of Pan-Islamic Nationalism, insisting that Islam and Nationalism were complementary, especially when the latter operated within the parameter of the Islamic truth, since, for the Muslim Brethren, Islam was of course both religion and state. Here we need to analyze what was the basic concept from which Hassan al-Banna initiated to establish such Islamic organization. Then we would also explore his thought of the causes of descend of Islamic society particularly in Egypt. However, his effort and works deserved great consideration of Islamic society in the revolution to the revival of Islamic state (Caliphate)…The Muslim Brethren…believe that the caliphate is a symbol of Islamic Union and an indication of the bonds between the nations of Islam. They see the caliphate and its re-establishment as a top priority, subsequently; an association of Muslims people should be set up, which would elect the imam”. (zhyntativ. HASAN AL-BANNA AND HIS POLITICAL THOUGHT OF ISLAMIC BROTHERHOOD. IkhwanWeb, May 13, 2008. http://www.ikhwanweb.com/article.php?id=17065 viewed 09/22/11)

The Muslim Brotherhood apparently wants as its top priority a pan-national Islamic caliphate ruled by an Imam. Many Muslims long for the rising up of a leader called the 12th Imam, often referred to as the Imam Mahdi.  The Caliph or Imam Mahdi may very well be the final King of the South.

Also, notice some of what the Living Church of God has reported about this:

The virtual “tsunami” of Middle East and North African nations overthrowing their secular rulers is coming along day by day even as I write. This—as we have explained—could clear the way for the Muslim Brotherhood and other Islamic extremists to take over much of the Middle East. Such an event would “prepare the way” for the coming “Mahdi”—the Islamist religious/political leader who will no doubt become the biblically prophesied “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40). He will probably lead in the provocation of the “King of the North” described in that same inspired prophecy in Daniel 11. And this will set in motion the final chain of events leading up to “Armageddon,” and then Jesus Christ’s return as King of kings (Revelation 11:15)! (Meredith RC. Tomorrow’s World subscriber letter, May 9, 2011)

World events are lining up with the Living Church of God’s understanding of biblical prophecy.

The Muslim Brotherhood itself wants to establish something that would fulfill the prophecies in Daniel 11 about the final King of the South.  Gomi Amin and others in Egypt are trying to make this come to pass.  And whether Gomi Amin is directly involved or not, it will come to pass.

Watch (Mark 13:37).

Some articles of related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi? What does the Bible say?
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?
Is There an Islamic Antichrist? Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 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? Who are the 144,000?
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.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”, based up an early 20th century writing.
Barack Obama in Islamic Prophecy? There is actually a 17th century Shiite prophecy that some believe that Barack Obama will fulfill that will lead to a rising up of Islam.

London Riots, 2011

COGwriter

The Occupy movement is getting police intervention in some areas, while it spreads to others:

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)

3 When He opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, “Come and see.” 4 Another horse, fiery red, went out. And it was granted to the one who sat on it to take peace from the earth, and that people should kill one another; and there was given to him a great sword. (Revelation 6:3-4)

But an even worse hour of trial is coming first (Revelation 3:10; Jeremiah 30:7).

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 summer 2011 London riots in the UK (Ephraim) and “flashmobs” in the USA (Manasseh), and now the Occupy movement, to a degree, this unrest has began.

And speaking of the Anglo-descended nations, in a recent 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?

(Choo photo)

COGwriter

In LCG’s latest TW News & Prophecy, there was the following:

Earthquakes shake the globe.

On Sunday, October 23, a 7.2 earthquake shook Turkey, destroying thousands of buildings, killing more than 500 people, injuring more than 1,600 and leaving as many as 40,000 homeless (Telegraph, October 27, 2011; Washington Post, October 27, 2011). On October 26, a 3.2 quake rattled the San Francisco Bay area of California and a 6.0 quake struck the South Pacific region near Fiji–just about a month after a 7.2 quake shook the same region of the “Ring of Fire” which stretches around the Pacific Rim (washingtonpost.com, October 26, 2011; CNN Wire Staff, October 26 and September 15, 2011).

Jesus admonished His disciples that they should mourn and care for those who are afflicted (Matthew 5:4). He also prophesied that as we approach the end of the age, there will be “earthquakes in various places” and other natural disasters (Matthew 24:7). Bible prophecies indicate that the increasing frequency and severity of these traumatic events will be the “beginning of sorrows” that will mark the imminent return of Jesus Christ to this earth (Matthew 24:8).

Christians need to watch as these events begin to dominate world news and pray earnestly, “Thy kingdom come!”

After that was written, there were reports of an injury earthquake in Peru as well as an update on the quake in Turkey:

20 People Injured in Peru Earthquake

‎Voice of America
October 29, 2011 20 People Injured in Peru Earthquake VOA News An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.9 has shaken southern Peru, leaving nearly two dozen injured.

Turkey Earthquake 2011: Final Day Of Rescue Search

‎Huffington Post – Burhan Ozbilici – 29 October 2011
The death toll in the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that also rattled parts of Iran and Armenia, increased to 582, of whom 455 were in the eastern city of Ercis.  Close to 4,000 were injured and some 230 were brought out of the ruins alive, authorities said.

In today’s announcements, LCG also reported:

Before the Feast of Trumpets, Typhoon Nesat made landfall in the Philippines. Following is a report by Miss Merle Chua of the Philippines Office, sent on September 30: “According to Mr. Basilio Osillos, the brethren, particularly in the Cagayan and Isabela areas, where the Typhoon eye made landfall, did not suffer any damages. The daughter of Mrs. Lolita Martin in San Mateo, Isabella, sent text messages about how fearful they were because of the strong winds. Thankfully their properties are ok….. Mr. Jes Puzon was able to conduct services in Baguio for Trumpets yesterday. The brethren in Manila are coping ok, and most of the brethren were able to attend Trumpets in Quezon City where they had a full house yesterday.”

Jesus, of course, warned about a time earthquakes and troubles:

8 … And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be…troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows. (Mark 13:8)

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

Perhaps the earthquake can serve as another wake-up call to people everywhere that the world 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. Things are going to get much worse than this.

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.
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?
Mexico, Central America, South America, and Brazil in Prophecy [Español: México, America Central, Suramérica, y el Brasil en profecíal] [Português: México, América Central, Ámérica do Sul, e Brasil na profecia] What will happen to those of Latin America? Will they have prosperity? Will they cooperate with Europe? Will they suffer in the future? What role might the various Caribbean nations/territories play?
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?
Earthquakes Today and Bible Prophecy Contains a cool up-to-the-hour update of earthquakes around the world from USGS. It also explains what did Jesus teach about earthquakes and how the Bible describes “the big one” (as well as when it is expected).

Jerusalem

COGwriter

Some believe Israel is about to strike Iran:

Israeli prisoner swap may be prelude to attack on Iran

Washington Times – Oct 28, 2011

JERUSALEM — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to execute a 1,000-for-1 prisoner exchange last week despite his frequently voiced opposition to such lopsided deals is seen by several Israeli military commentators as an effort to “clear the deck” before possibly undertaking an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities…Mr. Oren also noted that, until recently, Mr. Netanyahu had faced opposition to attacking Iran from Army Chief of Staff Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi and Mossad intelligence chief Meir Dagan. Both retired earlier this year and have been replaced by men believed to hold a different view on Iran…

Mr. Netanyahu may see Iran as an opportunity to achieve his Churchillian moment, Mr. Oren wrote. “The day is not far off, Netanyahu believes, when Churchill will emerge from him. http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/oct/28/israeli-prisoner-swap-may-be-prelude-attack-iran/

Iran’s ally Syria was in the news this morning:

Syria: Arab League sends ‘urgent message’ to President Bashar Assad over killings

After one of the bloodiest days in the seven-month popular uprising the Arab League issues its strongest message yet to Syria’s President Bashar Assad to end his killing of civilians.

29 October 2011  http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/8857270/Syria-Arab-League-sends-urgent-message-to-President-Bashar-Assad-over-killings.html

As I reported nearly three weeks ago, Israel is ready to strike Syria (see Israel Ready to Strike Syria).  As the Arab League and the West continue to isolate Syria, and with the chaos in Iran, Israel might feel that it should strike first, or Iran may now be able to persuade Syria to support it in an attack against Israel.

Iran also seems to be trying to at least somewhat get closer to Tunisia as the following two headlines from today’s news indicate:

Tunisia envoy stresses strong Iran ties‎ Press TV

Iran congratulates Islamist party for Tunisia victory

Khaleej Times

Many events are happening in the Middle East. And they are setting the stage for the rising up a the final King of the South that Daniel wrote about (Daniel 11:27;40). Daniel 11:27 and Psalm 83:1-8 suggest that this leader will make some deals with the King of the North. Bible prophecy suggests a seven-year peace deal will be confirmed by a European leader (for scriptural details, please see Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013?)

It may be that Syria might support decide to more closely support Iran and perhaps be involved in an invasion of Jerusalem and Israel. If so, this might be how Isaiah 17:1 is fulfilled:

1 An oracle concerning Damascus:
“See, Damascus will no longer be a city but will become a heap of ruins. 2 The cities of Aroer will be deserted and left to flocks, which will lie down,with no one to make them afraid. 3 The fortified city will disappear from Ephraim,and royal power from Damascus;the remnant of Aram will be like the glory of the Israelites,” declares the LORD Almighty. (Isaiah 17:1-3).

Israels’ willingness to strike Syria may well fulfill Isaiah 17:1.

I suspect that as Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad notices the growing influence of the Muslim Brotherhood, Arab League, and others opposed to him (as well as the impact of the recent economic sanctions from the EU against Syria), he may decide that working closer with Iran and supporting its objectives may be the way he feels he can best retain power. Since Iran has repeatedly indicated that it wants to invade Israel (and last month at the UN stated that it will not recognize Israel as a state even if the UN recognizes Palestine as a state), the idea on an actual Iranian invasion with Syrian support seems plausible.

Additionally, as I have reported before, Iran is getting close to having its own nuclear weapons (Nuclear Iran in 2012? If So, Saudis May Want Pakistani Nuclear Support)–and since Israel has indicated that this would be unacceptable, Israel itself may launch a strike against Iran that could lead to a regional war–such a war may also involve Syria. And FWIW, perhaps I should mention that technically, Syria is still at war with Israel as it never did sign a peace deal with Israel. So an actual war involving Syria and Israel is quite feasible. If so, Israel may hit back so hard that it might eliminate Damascus as Isaiah 17:1 says will happen.

As Jesus said,

35 Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming–in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning– 36 lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch! (Mark 13:35-37)

And the goings on in Israel and the Middle East are certainly areas that He was referring to (cf. Mark 13:14).

Prophetic events continue to line up.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? What does the Bible say?
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?
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? What will happen to the nation of Israel?
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?
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? Why do some believe that a seven-year peace deal must come first?

COGwriter

In his commentary today, Evangelist Richard Ames of the Living Church of God has the following:

Commentary: Christians and Halloween

By Richard F. Ames | Saturday, October 29, 2011

Is it “fun” to play at evil? Should we follow our neighbors, like proverbial lemmings, off the dangerous cliff of pagan practices? Most of society has accepted the lie that Halloween is “innocent fun” and eagerly train their children to take pleasure in symbols of pagan, and even Satanic, evil.

How shocking! When parents let their children dress as witches, demons, goblins or skeletons, they are teaching their children values that will last long after the costume comes off! Parents should have common sense, let alone basic values of right and wrong. Teaching our children to imitate evil is an abomination in God’s sight—and we will reap what we sow! By observing Halloween, we teach our children to make light of Satan the Devil—or even to think like him! Should we then be surprised when our children remain curious about evil—or even invite it—for the rest of the year?

In Scripture, we find that our Savior cured many individuals who were plagued by evil spirits. “And that very hour He cured many of infirmities, afflictions, and evil spirits; and to many blind He gave sight” (Luke 7:21). Do we live contrary to our Savior’s example? Do we teach our children to attract and cultivate evil spirits at Halloween? Certainly, dressing up like a demon or a witch invites evil rather than opposes it!

The Apostle James advises us to resist evil, not entertain it! “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). That is your Creator’s instruction to you! “Resist the devil!” Do not join the masses in celebrating the dark world of Satan and the occult!

The Bible plainly speaks of fallen angels called demons. The Apostle Paul warns us about these “spiritual hosts of wickedness” in Ephesians the sixth chapter. Consider this strong admonition: “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:11-12).

Some parents encourage their children to participate in the world of demons. Are some of you parents sacrificing your children to Satan and to wicked spirits? We must resist the world’s way of supporting the horrendous evil rampant about us. One can understand the blindness of non-Christians in participating in traditions of darkness. But for professing Christians to clothe themselves and their children with the outright symbols of evil is an affront to the name of Christ! Such practices are wicked, evil, and sinful! It’s time for such so-called Christians to repent of supporting the Devil and rebelling against Christ!

Parents also teach their children the concept of “trick or treat.” The child in essence tells an adult, “You had better give me some treat, or else I will trick you, or damage your property!” What kind of a Christian practice is that? It is definitely not Christian! It is teaching the “get” motive and intimidation! Jesus taught the way of life that emphasizes giving, not selfish getting! As the Apostle Paul wrote, “Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’” (Acts 20:35).

Our nation needs to wake up to its evil practice of embracing the occult and the symbols of wickedness. The Creator God will judge all who participate in such dark traditions. Professing Christians, who ought to know better, need to stand up for the righteous training of their children, and not surrender to the sacrificing of their children to the underworld of evil.

To learn more about this subject, read our article, “Dangers of the Occult,” or watch our telecast, “How To Overcome Satan.”

Halloween came from pagan sources, promotes pagan concepts, and is not in any way endorsed by the Bible.

Jesus and Paul did not observe Halloween. They, and the early faithful Christians, observed the biblical Fall holy days such as the Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement , and the Feast of Tabernacles.

Which should a Christian truly support?

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians? This article provides some historical and biblical insight on this question.
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.
Did Early Christians Observe the Fall Holy Days? Did they? Did Jesus? Did Paul? Should you?

Prince William of Wales and Catherine Middleton

COGwriter

Changes in the UK now allow Roman Catholics to be the monarch for Britain:

Girls equal in British throne succession

The leaders of the 16 Commonwealth countries where the Queen is head of state unanimously approved the changes at a summit in Perth, Australia.

It means a first-born daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge would take precedence over younger brothers.

The ban on the monarch being married to a Roman Catholic was also lifted.

BBC http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-15492607

This is interesting because this is the first time in centuries that British monarchs are allowed to marry a Roman Catholic.  I specifically used the term Roman Catholics because the monarchs have tended to be what they call Anglican Catholics.   Just over four years ago, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair became Roman Catholic (see also Tony Blair a Catholic EU Leader?).  Ultimately, this may turn out to allow the monarch him/herself to be Roman Catholic–we will see–if it does not, then the Vatican will likely be offended in the future.

After I originally posted this item, received an email this morning that claims the following:

October 29, 2011

“Last Days” Warned Here After England Gives “Gods Throne” To Catholics

By: Sorcha Faal, and as reported to her Western Subscribers

A frightening didactic treatise sent to Prime Minister Putin by His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia warns that the time foretold about in the Holy Scriptures commonly called the “Last Days” are now upon the world after England “surrendered” this past week the “Throne of God” to the Roman Catholic Church from which it had “liberated” it from in 1558.

According to this treatise, a “satanic bargain” agreed to between Queen Elizabeth II and Pope Benedict XVI…Patriarch Kirill warns in his treatise that the “deliberate” forgetting of the past in regards to this shocking move would insure an “apocalyptic” end to everything on this Earth.  http://www.whatdoesitmean.com/index1534.htm

Now, while I have NOT been able to verify this from other sources (the above source seems to sometimes report on stories that are in Russian and not translated online into English), it is true that the throne of the British monarchy will be given to Christ (who will later give it to King David per Ezekiel 37:24-25).  So, whether or not Patriarch Kirill made that statement about the last days, the reality is that the decision in England was significant.  The Russian and Eastern Orthodox also call themselves ‘Catholic.’

Ultimately, I do believe that a professing Roman Catholic (not necessarily one truly faithful to how that religion is currently practiced) will rule over Britain (though our Lord Jesus Christ will ultimately get that, and other thrones, per Revelation 11:15).

There is an old Catholic prophecy that indicates that the European Great Monarch will taken over the UK and the UK is either divided into thirds or ruled by three, presumably Roman Catholic, leaders:

Mother Shipton (d. 1551) “The time will come when England shall tremble and quake…London shall be destroyed forever after . . . and then York shall be London and the Kingdom governed by three Lords appointed by a Royal Great monarch…who will set England right and drive out heresy (Culleton, R. Gerald.  The Prophets and Our Times. Nihil Obstat: L. Arvin.  Imprimatur: Philip G. Scher, Bishop of Monterey-Fresno, November 15, 1941.  Reprint 1974, TAN Books, Rockford (IL), p. 163).

Interestingly, notice what one Catholic has written about the punishment for America and Britain:

Priest G. Rossi (19th century): But boastful pride and presumption always go before a fall. With her large share of guilt, America cannot avoid her due share of punishment…If the world is not yet entirely converted to Christianity, the blame is not on the head nor in the conscience of the Catholic Church… Ah! wretched Protestantism shall have to answer for the loss of faith… English schism and heresy have squandered their treasures and abused their great temporal power, not only in persecuting-the faith in Great Britain and Ireland, but also in banishing the true religion of Jesus Christ from their vast American possessions…Their long-deserved punishment, however, is approaching from the North! (Rossi, Gaudentius. The Christian Trumpet: Or, Previsions and Predictions about Impending General Calamities, the Universal Triumph of the Church, the Coming of the Anti-Christ, the Last Judgment, and the End of the World; Divided Into Three Parts, 4th edition. Patrick Donahoe, 1875. Original from Oxford University. Digitized Sep 1, 2006, pp. 16, 255).

So, at least one respected Catholic priest published that a northern power will punish Britain, and its descendants, including the U.S.A. and Canada, for their “pride” and Protestantism.

Despite the new allowance of Roman Catholic leaders, Britain still has a reputation of being one of the bastions of Protestantism, and when I was growing up in a Roman Catholic household, I recall being taught about England’s role in becoming Protestant.

Notice how “Protestantism” has been viewed and what is expected to befall the nominally-Protestant English as far as certain Catholics have indicated:

Priest P. Kramer (21st century): Pope St. Pius V teaches in his Catechism, the Roman Catechism — also known as the Catechism of the Council of Trent — that all of the Protestant religions are false religions, they’re inspired by the devil; and therefore their fruits are evil…The Protestant religions, as such, are inspired by the devil, as Pope St. Pius V teaches in his catechism. (Kramer P. The Imminent Chastisement for Not Fulfilling Our Lady’s Request. An edited transcript of a speech given at the Ambassadors of Jesus and Mary Seminar in Glendale, California, September 24, 2004. THE FATIMA CRUSADER Issue 80, Summer 2005, pp. 32-45 http://www.fatimacrusader.com/cr80/cr80pg32.asp viewed 4/15/08 )

Father Laurence Ricci, S.J. (died 1775): … a valiant duke will arise from the ancient German house which was humiliated by the French monarch. This great ruler will restore stolen Church property. Protestantism will cease… This duke will be the most powerful monarch on earth. At a gathering of men noted for piety and wisdom he will, with the aid of the Pope, introduce new rules, and ban the spirit of confusion. Everywhere there will be one fold and one shepherd.” (Connor p.37)

St. Malachy (12th century): … the English in turn must suffer severe chastisement. Ireland, however, will be instrumental in bringing back the English to the unity of Faith.” (Dupont, Yves. Catholic Prophecy: The Coming Chastisement. TAN Books, Rockford (IL), 1973, p.15)

Saint Edward (d. 1066) “The extreme corruption and wickedness of the English nation has provoked the just anger of God. When malice shall have reached the fullness of its measure, God will, in His wrath, send to the English people wicked spirits, who will punish and afflict them with great severity…” (Culleton, p. 137).

Saint Cataldus of Tarentino (c. 500): “The Great Monarch will be in war till he is forty years of age….he will assemble great armies and expel tyrants from his empire. He will conquer England {the Anglo-Saxons, possibly referring to the USA} and other island empires {possibly referring to the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand}” (Connor, Edward. Prophecy for Today. Imprimatur + A.J. Willinger, Bishop of Monterey-Fresno; Reprint: Tan Books and Publishers, Rockford (IL), 1984, p.30).

The Great Monarch is a prophesied leader (consistent with the final King of the North, Beast power in Bible prophecy) that is expected to work with the final pope (who I believe that biblical and Catholic prophecy show is an antipope) and is expected to eliminate the English, as well any who may be Protestant elsewhere.  And that will happen in the last days.

Many events, even this week, are aligning with end time Bible prophecy. The EU and UK will end up opposed to each other and the final European power and the Vatican will be very close.

Some articles of 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? 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?
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?
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? Who is the Great Monarch? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Is the German Defense Minister one to watch? What do Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecies suggest?
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.