Church of God News

European Central Bank, Frankfurt (Eric Chan)

COGwriter

Here are two news items on the European economic crisis to mention that LCG reported in its latest TW World & Prophecy:

Britain vetoes EU treaty revision.

Last Friday, EU leaders met in Brussels to discuss an intergovernmental treaty that will enforce stricter financial laws among EU members. Four nations initially rejected the treaty but with “a strong diplomatic push… the Czech Republic, Hungary and Sweden entered the fold later.” Britain was the only one of the 27 EU nations to reject the treaty.

Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron said that because the EU would not take action to protect Britain’s “vital financial services industry,” he was forced to veto the treaty. Mr. Cameron’s vote resulted in EU leadership restricting the agreement “to the 17 members of the euro zone,” and excluding the 10 non-euro zone members.

Experts see Britain’s veto as an action that will serve to further isolate the island nation, and possibly force a “split” in Europe (New York Times [online], December 9, 2011). “The euro zone plus nine may hold a summit without Britain as early as January, diplomats said” (Reuters, December 9, 2011).

The Church of God has long taught that …Britain–will not be part of an end-time European Beast power. The Bible indicates that Israelite nations, because of their national sins, will eventually be taken into captivity by the Beast (Hosea 7:11-16; 9:1-17; 11:5-7; 12:1; 13:12-16). Mr. Cameron’s action last week fits well with Bible prophecies. Ultimately, God will “bring back” His chosen people and bless them once again–when they repent and choose to fear and obey Him (Hosea 14:4-9).

For more information on the future of the Israelite-descended nations, review our booklet The United States and Great Britain in Prophecy.

Behind the scenes in Europe.

Last Tuesday, Herman Van Rompuy sent a confidential report to all EU leaders asking them to “respond vigorously by immediate action” to financial issues in Europe. It directed them to take decisive actions to save Europe. For example, in order to quickly change financial elements of the Lisbon Treaty, “Changes to Protocol N°12 can be introduced by a unanimous decision of the Council on a proposal from the Commission after consultation of the European Parliament and the European Central Bank. This decision does not require ratification at national level. This procedure could therefore lead to rapid and significant changes.” (Emphasis ours.)

The EU President was promoting actions that would quickly effect international change while bypassing national governments (Towards a Stronger Economic Union: Interim Report, December 6, 2011 cited in Le Figaro, December 6, 2011). Nations that joined the EU may find that they relinquished elements of their sovereignty they may not have been aware of. Now, leaders within the EU are prepared to use the powers at their disposal. As further changes are enacted within the EU, power will become even more centralized.

These events make John’s prophecy all the more clear: “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. These are of one mind, and they will give their power and authority to the beast” (Revelation 17:12-13).

Here is something from the news yesterday:

New treaty in force when 9 countries have ratified

EUobserver – Dec 16, 2011

The first draft of a new treaty meant to tighten economic governance in eurozone countries was circulated Friday (16 December) with the aim to have the text finalised by January and coming into force once nine countries have ratified it.The ratification threshold would allow the treaty to go into place even if some euro states – such as Ireland which may have to hold a referendum – are having problems getting domestic approval.  http://euobserver.com/19/114668

Ultimately, a new European “treaty” will be needed, so we will see how long and how well the proposed one might last. And ultimately, as we in the Living Church of God have long taught, the United Kingdom will not be part of it (at least not as a almost co-equal member).

The Bible shows that despite weakness (Daniel 11:41-43) there will be a reorganization in Europe. The Bible also shows that ultimately, a major dictator (and the person I currently suspect for that role currently holds no official government office) will rise up and rule end time Babylon (Revelation 17:1-13), the final King of the North, European Beast power of Bible prophecy (Daniel 11:40).

And while Europe is not yet ready to become the final King of the North, we in the Living Church of God have long taught that it will be–and that this final European leader will be much worse for the USA and its Anglo-descended allies (Daniel 11:39) than what a collapse of the Euro could directly bring.

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 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 Do 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?
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.
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? What MUST happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Is the German Defense Minister one to watch? What do Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecies suggest?
Resurgent Germany: A Fourth Reich? Who are the German peoples and where did they come from? What is Germany’s role in end time prophecy?
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?

COGwriter

There have been some of what I consider to be rather bizarre emails on the internet lately about marriage.  Various ones have indicated that God did not create marriage and that fornication is fine.

Those that believe the Bible have a different view.  God created marriage and forbids fornication, and also forbids homosexuality.

21 And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place. 22 Then the rib which the Lord God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man.

23 And Adam said:

“This is now bone of my bones
And flesh of my flesh;
She shall be called Woman,
Because she was taken out of Man.”

24 Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. (Genesis 2:21-24)

4 And He answered and said to them, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,’ 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:4-6)

Notice that God made humans male and female for marriage.  The human body is “not for fornication” (1 Corinthians 6:13, KJV), nor for homosexual relations (1 Corinthians 6:9-10).

The Bible shows that God is love:

8 He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. (1 John 4:8)

16 And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. (1 John 4:16)

And God created marriage, for many reasons, including to increase the amount of love in the universe.  Husbands and wives are to love each other:

25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26 that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. 28 So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. 30 For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones. 31 “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.”  32 This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33 Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.  (Ephesians 5:25-33)

1 But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: 2 that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things —  4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed. (Titus 2:1-5)

5 But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him.  (1 John 2:5)

Jesus’ word was for married couples to stay together, and He had the Apostle Paul record (as the above shows) that husbands and wives are to love each other.

Fornication (sex outside of marriage) and homosexuality, along with other sins, are specifically prohibited in the Bible:

3 But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them.  (Ephesians 5:3-7)

9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.  (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)

Having sex before marriage never should be allowed, and certainly was not God’s plan from the beginning.  Sex produces children and should only be engaged in by two people committed enough to each other to raise the children. The fact that there is now birth control does not change that sex can produce children–there are also emotional, disease/health, and other carnal reasons not be involved with fornication.

God did not create humans to be sexually immoral:

18 Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. (1 Corinthians 6:18)

God does not want wives tossed aside as they get older and also wants properly raised children:

14…Yet she is your companion
And your wife by covenant.
15 But did He not make them one,
Having a remnant of the Spirit?
And why one?
He seeks godly offspring.
Therefore take heed to your spirit,
And let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth.  (Malachi 2:14-15)

The Bible calls a woman a wife by covenant.  And that covenant is a marriage covenant.

Fornication and other forms of sexual immorality deal treacherously and are not intended by their participants to produce godly offspring.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

God Created Marriage Some falsely claim that God did not create marriage and that fornication is fine.  What does the Bible really teach?
Why Marriage? Soon Obsolete? This is a booklet from Herbert Armstrong on this important topic.
Here’s the Plain Truth About OLD TESTAMENT POLYGAMY by Herbert Armstrong.
Love, Marriage, and Sex It is important to get them in the right order.
Five Rules for Effective Parenting Do you know that there are five simple rules that can make you a more effective parent? There is also a 12 1/2 minute YouTube video on this, also titled Five Rules for Effective Parenting.
What Psychologists do not Know About Child Rearing This is an article by Herbert Armstrong that was used as the introduction to the pdf booklet The Plain Truth About Child Rearing.
The Plain Truth About Child Rearing This is a pdf booklet that the old WCG put out.
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.

Hiroshima

COGwriter

Russia stopped Iran from getting some radioactive metals:

 Russia Seizes Radioactive Metals From Tehran-Bound Passenger

BusinessWeek – ‎16 December 2011

By Scott Rose and Henry Meyer Dec. 16 (Bloomberg) — Customs officials at a Moscow airport stopped a passenger who was trying to board a flight to Tehran with luggage containing radioactive materials, Russia’s Federal Customs Service said.

Russia is an ally of Iran, but not a particularly close one–Russia is a bit more pragmatic and does what it believes in its interest, and that can change with the right international pressure (as well as internal needs/wants).

This stoppage may affect Iran’s ability to produce as many nuclear bombs as some think it is trying to make.

Russia, who does not wish to support an Islamic leadership of the world. Iran knows that, thus it realizes that there are limits to Russia’s “friendship.”

Events are moving forward in the Middle East, Iran, and other parts of the world for the fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Some of these events may happen in 2012.

As Jesus said:

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

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

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? What does Islam teach about the Imam Mahdi?
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? Is he the Imam Mahdi? What does the Bible say?
Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?
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 17 predictions in the book and many more will to come to pass.

COGwriter

Two readers sent me something about the following today:

Indefinite Detention’ Bill Heads To Obama’s Desk As White House Drops Veto Threat

Dec 14, 2011

Obama has dropped his threat to veto the bill and is now expected to sign it into law. Remember – it was Obama’s White House that demanded the law apply to U.S. citizens in the first place.

The bill which would codify into law the indefinite detention without trial of American citizens is about to be passed and sent to Obama’s desk to be signed into law, even as some news outlets still erroneously report that the legislation does not apply to U.S. citizens.

http://www.infowars.com/indefinite-detention-bill-heads-to-obamas-desk/

This is just another step towards loss of freedom and what seemed to have been Constitutional rights in the USA.   There have been many disturbing similar developments in the USA.  I have not noticed the gaining of any biblical rights lately for those who reside in the USA.

Basically losses for them, while those with agendas that oppose scripture have attained legal “rights” that the Bible would not support.

Some articles of possibly-related interest may include:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, 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?
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?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? This article has eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. It includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article at the COGwriter website on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled since he is to be the USA president?

Roderick C. Meredith (Photo by Joyce Thiel)

COGwriter

On November 13, 2011 I reported at my News of the Living Church of God page that LCG called for “a church-wide fast.”  Here is what Dr. Meredith later wrote about it:

Dear brethren and ministers around the world…my immediate purpose in writing all of you at this time is to explain the reason for the upcoming Church FAST on the Sabbath of December 17. There were many instances in biblical times when God’s servants called for a fast. Remember how—as the “Day of the Lord approaches”—God’s true ministers were exhorted: “Consecrate a fast, call a sacred assembly; gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the Lord your God, and cry out to the Lord. Alas for the day! For the day of the Lord is at hand; it shall come as destruction from the Almighty” (Joel 1:14-15).

When Daniel sorrowed over the “desolations of Jerusalem,” and the need for God’s intervention, what did he do? “Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes. And I prayed to the Lord my God, and made confession, and said, ‘O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and mercy with those who love Him, and with those who keep His commandments’” (Daniel 9:3-4). And when the soon-to-be Apostle Paul was struck down and blinded to humble him and to “awaken” him, notice what he did: “Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank” (Acts 9:8-9).

Dear brethren, as you know from our previous announcements, we have had an entire series of extremely serious illnesses among God’s people in recent months—including a number of our leading people directly involved in the Work. We all know that the radiant faith of people like Peter and Paul is very seldom found among God’s people today. We remember Jesus’s statement: “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8).

After meditating and praying about these things and conferring with our leading ministers here in Charlotte, I have been led by Jesus Christ to call for a Church-wide fast on the Sabbath of December 17—beginning, of course, the previous evening at sunset. I urge all of you faithful members, in Jesus’ name, to join with us in this day of fasting and prayer and in earnestly seeking God and asking for His special mercy at this time and for the supernatural healing of His people through the “stripes” of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:24).

Dear brethren, as the end of this age approaches, let us all cry out to God for more of His Spirit, more of His power through divine healings and the “gifts of the Spirit.”

Apparently, various COG critics do not go to my News of the Living Church of God page nor care for the idea of a “church-wide fast.”

Here are some criticisms this month from the so-called “Banned By HWA!” website, including some related to previous LCG fasts which I have bolded for clarity (with my short comments following in italics):

“I don’t remember a church wide fast ever working from 1969 until now, nor even before that in WCG…”

The above writer may not remember “a church wide fast ever working ,” but my recollections are different about that.  I believe that the healing of a close family member was led to be brought about by an LCG fast in the summer of 2001; that I personally received certain spiritual insights/gifts as the result of LCG fasts in 2009, 2010, and 2011; plus there have been certain other reported healings and other positive developments occurred as the result of other church-wide fasts.

“The announcement made in January 2010 for an LCG fast was the most evil action I have ever seen in the church of God.” 

“Anonymous said that Rod Meredith, in his January 2010 announcement for a fast, did: “…”Urge everyone to take part and to wholeheartedly “seek God” and ask the Father and our Head, Jesus Christ, to bring more and more of His faithful people together into one Church so a truly significant Work may be accomplished!” …”   Well, the purpose of that fast did not accomplish things such that Rod’s will was done for his particular group, which probably doesn’t thrill Bob Thiel at all.”

Dr. Meredith in that January 2010 announcement had written, “So please announce to all the brethren that we as a unified body will be conducting a Church-wide fast on the Sabbath of March 6! Urge everyone to take part and to wholeheartedly “seek God” and ask the Father and our Head, Jesus Christ, to bring more and more of His faithful people together into one Church so a truly significant Work may be accomplished! Even now, many of us are putting our very beings into the Work—as many of you know. But we need help, we need more laborers and we need the “gifts” of the Holy Spirit in order to reach and to convict this very confused world.”  This is not evil. 

Also, LCG ended up having record attendance at its Feast of Tabernacles’ sites later that year (2010), hence apparently God decided to supply more laborers.

“What about “Is any one sick among you…let him call for the Elders of the church and the prayer of faith will save the sick and the sick shall be made well”?”

We in LCG do practice calling on the Elders and the prayer of faith, along with anointing.  But Jesus also taught, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting” (Mark 9:29).  Hence, for certain issues, Jesus advocating prayer AND fasting, and that is what LCG is also doing.

“I feel sorry for people in the LCG who will be missing yet more meals this Saturday in the name of imaginary beings and human ego.”

I feel sorry for those who do not believe in God, but instead blaspheme Him by suggesting that God is an imaginary being.  The Bible tells people to fast, and Jesus also said His followers would fast (Matthew 6:16-17; Luke 5:33-35).

“I find it interesting that LCG’s most important mouthpiece has posted nothing about this on his blog. Does Thiel not know about this or does he consider this an internal matter and not one that should be broadcast around the world?”

While I did post about this on November 13, 2011 at my News of the Living Church of God page, I tend to consider many fasts more of an internal matter as this was a “church-wide fast” and LCG did not mention other COGs, unlike last January’s fast.  However, since at least two-anti-COG sites have complained about this upcoming fast, I felt that perhaps others would like to learn more about it and our past church-wide fasts.

Regarding the 1/29/11 fast, here is some of Dr. D. Winnail and Dr. Meredith wrote,

Currently, the United Church of God is experiencing a traumatic split that will impact thousands of brethren. Please pray that God will guide His people at this critical time to see the importance of working together to fulfill the commission to preach the Gospel, warn the world and prepare a people to serve with Jesus Christ in the soon-coming Kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:10-13 & Ephesians 4:1-6).(Winnail D. LCG Weekly Update, 1/09/11)

“So let us really devote ourselves to this FAST and to show our love and concern for thousands who may be adversely affected by the continuing upheaval among God’s people. Ask God earnestly to protect them, to guide them and to keep them from being bitter or completely falling away from the true way of life revealed in the Bible.” (Meredith RC. LCG Weekly Update, 1/20/11)

In addition to spiritual growth, etc. I do believe what Dr. Meredith called for above occurred.  While some people associated with the United Church of God (UCG) split did become part of LCG, most either stayed with UCG or went with COGWA–thus most did not become so bitter that they fell completely away from the true biblical teachings of the Church of God.

Yet, at least one critic called that fast “evil.”

Additionally, notice what Dr. Roderick C. Meredith of the Living Church of God recently wrote:

As some of you may have heard, we were blessed to have more than 9,000 people attending the Feast of Tabernacles this autumn! That is a new record—for which we are thankful! Most of all, of course, God is concerned with the spiritual strength of our brethren and we certainly do want to emphasize that which is more important. However, we are grateful that God is adding to our numbers in the Church, and that we are continuing to have wonderful responses to the telecast nearly every week and that the impact of this Work around the world is certainly growing—especially as prophetic events speed up.  (Meredith RC. LCG Weekly Update, 12/01/11)

So, while critics complain that God apparently ignores the fasts in the Church of God, I would suggest that the fruits indicate otherwise.

Those who wish can join those of us in LCG who will be fasting from sunset December 16th to sunset December 17th, 2011.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Spiritual Benefits of Fasting Jesus said, “But by Prayer and Fasting” and this article by Dr. Meredith focuses on fasting and provides his physical and spiritual fasting tips. Does fasting help prevent heart disease?
Is God’s Existence Logical? Some say it is not logical to believe in God. Is that true?
Is Evolution Probable or Impossible or Is God’s Existence Logical? Part II This short article clearly answers what ‘pseudo-scientists’ refuse to acknowledge.
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.

COGwriter

The Obama Administration’s Secretary of Defense discussed Iraq:

Panetta formally shuts down US war in Iraq

The Associated Press – ‎15 December 2011

BAGHDAD (AP) – After nearly nine years, 4500 American dead, 32000 wounded and more than $800 billion, US officials formally shut down the war in Iraq – a conflict that US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said was worth the price in blood and money, as it set Iraq on a path to democracy…

More than 100,000 Iraqis have been killed since the U.S. invasion in 2003, according to the Iraq Body Count website. Bombings and gun battles are still common. And experts are concerned about the Iraqi security force’s ability to defend the nation against foreign threats.

I will not comment about whether the military intervention by the USA was “worth the price,” but do not accept that this will set Iraq on a long-term path of democracy.

Most commentators know that all is not well in Iraq.

Some realize that Iraq is likely to experience civil war.

Almost seven years ago (January 7, 2005), the late John Ogwyn (of LCG) stated in a commentary titled What Lies Ahead for Iraq?:

You see, Iraq has three roughly defined regions developing on their own paths. The south is under the sway of Shiite Muslim clerics, many of whom want to form an Islamic state. The Sunni Muslims in the center are increasingly influenced by members of the former regime—many of them Arab nationalists. And in the north there is the desire for Kurdish autonomy at the very least—and, most likely, Kurdish independence. In fact, the longer an effective central government is delayed, the longer the country’s three regions will continue on their diverging trajectories. Some have called this “the calm before the storm.”

Now, my friends, did you realize this is actually mentioned in Bible prophecy? It’s interesting when you look in the book of Revelation, chapter 9, as well as Revelation chapter 16, and you find that the Euphrates River plays a major part in future prophecies. Anciently, the Euphrates River was the boundary between the Parthian Empire to the east and the Roman Empire to the west. That was the state of things in the first century when John was writing. Today, if you look at a map, the Euphrates River isn’t a boundary between anything. It just sort of goes down through the middle of Iraq. Yet in Revelation 9:14, we are told that when the sixth trumpet blows, the angels that have been bound in the great River Euphrates are loosed. And in Revelation 16, we find that when the sixth vial is poured out, the River Euphrates is dried up and the kings of the east move across—indicating that the Euphrates is a boundary between east and west.

My friends, if you look at a map and you look these three ethnic groups, you realize that as Iraq moves toward disintegration into three major components, you will find that the Euphrates River is going to emerge as a boundary. That is the natural boundary there, and very likely we are going to see, in the time ahead, the disintegration of Iraq—and ultimately the emergence of the Euphrates River as a prominent boundary just as indicated in the book of Revelation.

What’s going on in today’s world news is setting the stage for the final fulfillment of Bible prophecy.

On September 1, 2010, I posted the following (see Obama Declares End to Combat Mission, Ogwyn Suggested Changes):

The US and its allies attempted to do the best that they humanly can, but overall, things will change in the Middle East and will NOT be as the US, etc. hopes.

The Arab Spring of 2011, the elections in Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt, and other events in 2011 have started to prove my point as I do not believe that Islamist groups with ties to the Muslim Brotherhood are in the interest of the USA, and they have been rising up in 2011.

As far as Iraq is concerned, civil unrest is ultimately likely, and it may break out with civil war.  Ultimately, I expect much of Iraq to align with the soon coming Islamic King of the South, and that may somewhat minimize Iraq’s disintegration–but such disintegration may happen prior to this leader being accepted.

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 Bible and the Arab World In 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 an Islamic Antichrist? Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.
Prophecies of Barack Obama? This article has eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. It includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article at the COGwriter website on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled since he is to be the USA president?

COGwriter

The German edition of 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect is now available at Amazon Kindle:   2012 und das Auftreten der geheimen Sekte (German Kindle Edition).  This German edition is slightly updated and here is some of the update in German:

Kommentar über die Erfüllung von Voraussagen aus der englischen Ausgabe

 Seit die englischsprachige Ausgabe im Juli 2009 in Druck ging, haben sich Weltereignisse ergeben, die mindestens 18 der darin enthaltenen Voraussagen erfüllt haben:

1. Das Ersetzen des U.S.-Dollars als Weltreservewährung hat in vielen Nationen begonnen.
2. Der Vatikan hat seine Verfassung ergänzt, um einen Kompromiss zu ermöglichen und Anglikaner sowie anglikanische Priester anzuerkennen.
3. Ein großes europäisches Reich hat sich offiziell gebildet.
4. Barack Obama hat die Bildung dieser Struktur befürwortet.
5. Führende europäische Politiker haben sich für ein Friedensabkommen im Nahen Osten ausgesprochen, das sie bestätigen wollen.
6. Es wird mehr auf das Gold als Absicherung für Papierwährungen geachtet .
7. Am Partikelbeschleuniger des CERN in Genf hat man Technologien entdeckt, die militärische Bedeutung haben könnten.
8. Die USA haben ihre Schulden massiv erhöht.
9. Prioritäten im Budget der USA haben sich vomVerteidigungshaushalt abgewandt.
10. In Israel wurde ein Altar für Opferhandlungen fertiggestellt.
11. Die Führung der östlichen Orthodoxen Kirche hat angedeutet, dass es ein ökumenisches Konzil geben könnte.
12. Das U.S. Militär hat sich einverstanden erklärt, sich auf das künftige Galileo-Navigationssystem als Teil der amerikanischen Verteidigung zu verlassen.
13. Bürgerliche Unruhen beginnen, in Europa aufzutreten.
14. Veränderungen in der Haltung des Vatikans zu Fatima unterstützen die Position, dass Marienerscheinungen ökumenisch genutzt werden können.
15. Ausländische Kreditgeber begannen, die Rückzahlungsfähigkeit für U.S.-amerikanische Schulden anzuzweifeln.
16. Barack Obama hat sündhaftes Verhalten ermutigt.
17. Barack Obama hat eine multinationale Macht in der islamischen Welt ermutigt.
18. Eine islamische Konföderation beginnt, sich zu formen.

Weitere Ereignisse werden sich in die auf der Bibel basierenden Voraussagen in diesem Buch einfügen.  Und die meisten dieser Ereignisse werden nach 2012 eintreten.

World events have lined up with at least 18 predictions in 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect since its release in September 2009.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

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.
2012 und das Auftreten der geheimen Sekte (German Kindle Edition)

An animal horn trumpet.

COGwriter

In the latest issue of its The Bible Advocate, CG7-Denver has the following statements from its former president, Elder Calvin Burrell:

What about the secret rapture? We’re hearing a lot but aren’t sure what the Bible says on the subject.

As commonly heard, the secret rapture doctrine has enough truth about it to attract many earnest believers, yet enough error to merit some firm skepticism…

Rapture error #1. Christ will return twice in the future: once for the church, then, after some years and the tribulation is complete, again with the church. The Bible hardly supports this…

Rapture error #2. Christians will be spared from this age’s final testing. With few exceptions (Rev. 3:10, for example), the Bible does not teach that God removes the faithful from the presence of trouble. The version of final escapism, known as the Rapture, is mostly a firstworld and Western doctrine. Much of Christ’s church elsewhere exists in a state of near or severe tribulation, from which they have not received the same deliverance that American Christians are taught to expect when persecution comes to these shores. God’s saints may expect to go through the fire and the flood, not to always be snatched from them.

Rapture error #3. It will be a secret rapture. But the same text that speaks of the rapture (1 Thess. 4:15-17) also associates it with a loud noise: a shout, an archangel’s voice, and God’s trumpet. Surely the ears of all living creatures must hear this crescendo, just as every eye will see the Lord when He comes (Rev. 1:7). No secrets there.

And he is basically correct about that–though he probably should have stated that the Bible shows that the Philadelphia Christians are the ones that do not go through the ‘hour of trial’ per Revelation 3:10 and that the place of their protection is in the wilderness per Revelation 12:14-16.

In a commentary, LCG’s Wyatt Ciesielka had the following statements:

But what about the rapture…?…

Nowhere does Scripture teach a “secret rapture.” Christ will not secretly return to spirit away His servants into heaven before the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord. This completely contradicts numerous Scriptures, including Matthew 24:26-31. Notice 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 – both the dead and those alive will be raised incorruptible at the last trumpet! The “last trumpet” is after the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord – not before…

Must one enter into the Kingdom of God through the Great Tribulation? Is there another way?

Revelation 3:7-13 describes God’s faithful Church at the end of this age. These Christians earnestly strive to “imitate Jesus” in how they live and worship (1 Corinthians 11:1). They are not perfect, but they strive to “walk as He walked” (1 John 2:6). They practice love, and all the fruits of the Spirit. And there is something else unique about these Christians. They are zealous. They are doing something.

They understand the “key of David” which includes understanding proper godly church government and also what is prophesied for modern Israel (compare Revelation 3:7-8 to Isaiah 22:21-22). They are not distracted with the cares of this world. They are not distracted by church politics. They are focused.

These Christians are zealously doing the work of preaching the gospel (compare the “open door” in Revelation 3:8 with 2 Corinthians 2:12). Just like Jesus, their “food” is to proclaim the gospel message of the coming Kingdom of God (John 4:34)! They imitate Christ in this (1 Corinthians 11:1).

These zealous Philadelphian Christians receive God’s protection before the Great Tribulation! They are also counted worthy to marry Christ and become trusted pillars in His Kingdom (Revelation 3:12).

The end of this age is indeed fast approaching. Christ will return (John 14:3). At His return, who and where will we be?

Many misunderstand end time prophecy. In LCG, we try to show people what the Bible teaches.

For more details on several of the subjects in the commentary, please check out the following articles:

Is There A Secret Rapture for the Church? When and Where is the Church Protected? What does the Bible really teach? Who really is left behind?
There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory.
The 18 Restored Truths: Do You Know What the First Changes the Tkach Administration Made? Some have said healing, others other subjects, but probably the first change had to do with eliminating being part of the Philadelphia era and teaching the truth about Sardis. This article documents what those changes were and compares the Tkach list of restored truths to Herbert W. Armstrong’s list of restored truths. It contains many quotes from Herbert W. Armstrong.
Should the Church Still Try to Place its Top Priority on Proclaiming the Gospel or Did Herbert W. Armstrong Change that Priority for the Work? Some say the Church should mainly feed the flock now as that is what Herbert W. Armstrong reportedly said. Is that what he said? Is that what the Bible says? What did Paul and Herbert W. Armstrong expect from evangelists?
Do You Believe God Used Herbert W. Armstrong to Raise Up the Philadelphia Era of the Church of God? Nearly everyone while in WCG used to believe this, most do not seem to anymore.
What is a True Philadelphian? Many claim to be part of the Philadelphia era of the Church, but is claiming enough? This article has biblical and historical evidence about who really are the Philadelphians.
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012, 2013, or 2014? 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?
The Sardis Church Era was predominant circa 1600 A.D. to circa 1933 A.D. Discusses early history of the Seventh Day Baptists, Seventh-day Adventists, and COG-7th Day.
The Philadelphia Church Era was predominant circa 1933 A.D. to 1986 A.D. The old Radio Church of God and old Worldwide Church of God, now basically the Living Church of God.
The Laodicean Church Era has been predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. These are non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG.
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.

COGwriter

The website of Grace Communion International (the group that temporarily ran the new WCG) had the following:

Have you ever wondered how Christmas came to be part of the annual Christian calendar? Here’s the fascinating story, which we begin with a surprising observation. Neither Jesus nor the apostles commanded or even suggested that the church should have a Christmas festival — and no evidence of such a celebration is in the New Testament…

Why Dec. 25?

One theory for the origin of Christmas is that it was intended to compete with or supplant the pagan celebration of the sun-god on that date. According to this hypothesis, accepted by most scholars today, the birth of Jesus was given near the date of the winter solstice. On this day, as the sun began its return to the northern skies, the pagan devotees of Mithra celebrated the birthday of the invincible sun. The cult was particularly strong at Rome when Christmas celebration arose.

The idea is that the church tried to counteract this pagan worship with its own celebration of Jesus’ birth. That makes good sense…

Birthday of Jesus?

Why wasn’t Jesus’ birthday celebrated earlier than the fourth century? One reason might be that neither the day nor month of Jesus’ birth is given in the Gospels or any other early Christian writings—and cannot be determined with any certainty…

The yearly Christian festivals remind us of the leading events of the gospel history, and beckon us to participate in worship of Christ.

So, let’s look at those points.

GCI is correct that:

1. The date of Jesus’ birth is not mentioned in the Bible.
2. No early Christian celebrated Christmas.
3. Scholars recognize that December 25th was chosen to compromise with pagan sun god worshippers.

The original “yearly Christian festivals” included Passover, the Days of Unleavened Bread, Pentecost, Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles, and the Last Great Day (see Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible?).  Most of which most who profess Christianity today either have never heard or know little about.

Historically of course, the true Church of God did not accept the adoption of pagan worship practices,  Whatever group that GCI is referring to as “the church” that adopted December 25th was not one that was faithful to the Bible or the practices of the original faithful Christians.

Furthermore, not only did Christians not celebrate Christmas, they also did not celebrate birthdays.  This, too, was a compromise with a pagan emperor who was a worshipper of the sun god Mithras–the one whose birthday was December 25th.

The Church of Rome also basically admits that date of December 25th was chosen as it was the pagan sun god Mithras’ birthday:

Mithraism A pagan religion consisting mainly of the cult of the ancient Indo-Iranian Sun-god Mithra. It entered Europe from Asia Minor after Alexander’s conquest, spread rapidly over the whole Roman Empire at the beginning of our era, reached its zenith during the third century, and vanished under the repressive regulations of Theodosius at the end of the fourth century…Helios Mithras is one god…Sunday was kept holy in honour of Mithra, and the sixteenth of each month was sacred to him as mediator. The 25 December was observed as his birthday, the natalis invicti, the rebirth of the winter-sun, unconquered by the rigours of the season (Arendzen. J.P. Transcribed by John Looby. Mithraism. The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume X. Published 1911. New York: Robert Appleton Company. Nihil Obstat, October 1, 1911. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

Natalis Invicti. The well-known solar feast, however, of Natalis Invicti, celebrated on 25 December, has a strong claim on the responsibility for our December date. For the history of the solar cult, its position in the Roman Empire, and syncretism with Mithraism, see Cumont’s epoch-making “Textes et Monuments” etc., I, ii, 4, 6, p. 355…The earliest rapprochement of the births of Christ and the sun is in Cypr., “De pasch. Comp.”, xix, “O quam præclare providentia ut illo die quo natus est Sol . . . nasceretur Christus.” – “O, how wonderfully acted Providence that on that day on which that Sun was born . . . Christ should be born.”…(Martindale C. Christmas. The Catholic Encyclopedia, 1908).

Notice that The Catholic Encyclopedia admits that December 25 was Mithras’ birthday and that pagan sun worship practices are tied into a reason for the December 25th date.

The old Worldwide Church of God used to realize the truth about Christmas, and not observe it.  Even though it knows some of the truth still about its origins, it has decided to compromise and accept a date that does not come from the Bible.

The closet legitimate date that the Bible seems to support for Christ’s birth would have been in September or October.  Because of the shepherds being out all night with their flocks according to Luke 2:7-17, this pretty much rules out the possibility of a late December date for the time of Jesus’ birth.

WCG/GCI’s fall on Christmas is simply one more proof that it has abandoned the Bible for non-biblical traditions.

Some articles of related interest may include:

What Does the Catholic Church Teach About Christmas and the Holy Days? Do you know what the Catholic Church says were the original Christian holy days? Was Christmas among them? Is December 25th Jesus’ birthday or that of the sun god?
Did Early Christians Celebrate Birthdays? Did biblical era Jews celebrate birthdays? Who originally celebrated birthdays? When did many that profess Christ begin birthday celebrations?
Do You Practice Mithraism? Many practices and doctrines that mainstream so-called Christian groups have are the same or similar to those of the sun-god Mithras. December 25th was celebrated as his birthday. Do you follow Mithraism combined with the Bible or original Christianity?
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by the Tkach 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.
Tradition and Scripture: From the Bible and Church Writings Are traditions on equal par with scripture? Many believe that is what Peter, John, and Paul taught. But did they?
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?

Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg

COGwriter

Some in the German press have again criticized Karl zu Guttenberg:

Ridicule for Guttenberg’s new EU internet role

The Local – Dec 13, 2011

Former German Defence Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg, who was dubbed Dr. Googleberg when caught plagiarizing his PhD thesis, has been appointed EU advisor on internet freedom, inviting much derision.

Guttenberg was named advisor to the EU’s internet commissioner Neelie Kroes on Monday, with the particular remit of the role of the internet in authoritarian regimes in the Arab world.But many German commentators noted that during one of his previous incarnations as economics and technology minister in 2009, Guttenberg had come out in favour of website blocks for child porn, despite expert advisers saying they were an ineffective instrument against paedophiles. http://www.thelocal.de/sci-tech/20111213-39475.html

But it should be pointed out that there really is a difference between trying to stop the spread of child pornography (which is something that all the governments of the world should have sense enough to realize is wrong) and to open the internet to various political and religious ideas.

It is my belief that if Baron Guttenberg is one to watch to potentially be the final King of the North of Daniel 11 (the final head of the Beast of the sea of Revelation 13), that he would sometimes make what could be called “moral stands,” such as opposing child pornography.  Both Baron Guttenberg and his wife Stephanie have taken “moral stands” publicly, and if he is to rise up as I suspect that he may, it is likely that he and/or his wife will do that again.

Regarding his new appointment, here is some of what the EU announced about it:

Digital Agenda: Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg invited by Kroes to promote internet freedom globally

Brussels, 12 December 2011 – European Commission Vice-President Neelie Kroes has invited Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg, a former Federal Minister of Defence, and of Economics and Technology, in Germany, to advise on how to provide ongoing support to Internet users, bloggers and cyber-activists living under authoritarian regimes. This appointment forms a key element of a new “No Disconnect Strategy” to uphold the EU’s commitment to ensure human rights and fundamental freedoms are respected both online and off-line, and that internet and other information and communication technology (ICT) can remain a driver of political freedom, democratic development and economic growth…

The “No Disconnect strategy” will assist people in four ways:

1. Developing and providing technological tools to enhance privacy and security of people living in non-democratic regimes when using ICT.
2. Educating and raising awareness of activists about the opportunities and risks of ICT. In particular assisting activists to make best use of tools such as social networks and blogs while raising awareness of surveillance risks when communicating via ICT.
3. Gathering high quality intelligence about what is happening “on the ground” in order to monitor the level of surveillance and censorship at a given time, in a given place.
4. Cooperation. Developing a practical way to ensure that all stakeholders can share information on their activity and promote multilateral action and building cross-regional cooperation to protect human rights.  http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/11/1525&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

The Baron’s appointment should sound out alarms to all who understand Bible prophecy as one who has potential to be involved with end time matters, including the fact that the Baron is being ridiculed for this appointment as well as his plagiarism scandal (e.g. Ridicule for Guttenberg’s new EU internet role The Local – Dec 13, 2011. http://www.thelocal.de/sci-tech/20111213-39475.html).

Notice some prophecies related to the Beast and his empire:

15 He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed. 16 He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, 17 and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.  18 Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666.  (Revelation 13:15-18)

The fact that the Baron is to advise about internet security and surveillance may encourage him to press to get the above implemented.  The fact that he was once Economics Minister for Germany also gives him additional qualifications to possibly help fulfill Revelation 13:15-18.

What about ridicule for his Ph.D. scandal and getting his latest appointment?   Notice how this ridicule seems to fit with of some different translations of a passage in Daniel about the arrival of the final King of the North:

21 His place will be taken by a reject, a man spurned and passed over for advancement. He’ll surprise everyone, seemingly coming out of nowhere, and will seize the kingdom. (Daniel 11:21, THE MESSAGE)

21 And in his place shall arise a vile person, to whom they will not give the honor of royalty; but he shall come in peaceably, and seize the kingdom by intrigue. (Daniel 11:21, New King James Version)

²¹ ‘In his place will rise a wretch: royal honours will not be given to him, but rather he will insinuate himself into them at his pleasure and will gain possession of the kingdom by intrigue. (Daniel 11:21, New Jerusalem Bible)

21 “The next to come to power will be a despicable man who is not in line for royal succession. He will slip in when least expected and take over the kingdom by flattery and intrigue. (Daniel 11:21, New Living Translation)

21 And there shall stand up in his place one despised, and the kingly honour shall not be given him: and he shall come privately, and shall obtain the kingdom by fraud. (Daniel 11:21, Douay-Rheims)

Thus, even though many have ridiculed Karl zu Guttenberg for his plagiarism scandal (and many will consider him a reject as many believe he got his Ph.D. by fraud) and now his new appointment related to the internet for the EU, the reality is that this all may well fit biblical prophecy.

The final Beast will ultimately become the political leader of Europe. And according to the Bible, he will have military abilities (Revelation 13:1-4), will be apparently be popular and charismatic (cf. Daniel 7:20,11:21-24,31; Revelation 13:3-5), and be able to attain economic control (Revelation 13:15-18).  Baron Guttenberg has displayed confirming characteristics.

He is one we all should watch (cf. Mark 13:37).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? What MUST happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Is the German Defense Minister one to watch? What do Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecies suggest?
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? How will Europeans be involved in this?
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 18 predictions in the book and many more will to come to pass.
2012 und das Auftreten der geheimen Sekte (German Edition) 2012 Buch von Dr. Thiel in deutscher Sprache. 2012 und das Auftreten der geheimen Sekte (German Kindle Edition)