Church of God News

Muslim Brotherhood
الإخوان المسلمون
Al-Ikhwān Al-Muslimūn

COGwriter

The Muslim Brotherhood seems to have greatly increased its influence in Egypt’s elections as VOA reports:

7 December 2011

Muslim Brotherhood Claims Another Victory in Egyptian Elections

Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood says its political party has won almost two-thirds of the parliamentary seats reserved for individual candidates in the opening rounds of the country’s lower house elections.
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In a statement Wednesday, the Islamist group’s Freedom and Justice party says it won 36 of the 56 individual seats that were contested in nine provinces, including the two largest cities of Cairo and Alexandria. It says Freedom and Justice candidates won 34 seats in runoff elections on Monday and Tuesday after winning outright victories in two other seats in last week’s first round of voting…
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The Brotherhood’s party already had won the largest share of seats reserved for parties in last week’s vote, securing 37 percent of ballots in the nine provinces, compared to 24 percent for its nearest rival, the ultra-conservative Salafist Nour party. Egypt’s liberal coalition was a distant third.
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If confirmed, the Brotherhood’s individual seat victories put the movement on track to become the leading power in the 498-member assembly.Egypt’s remaining 18 provinces will join the voting for the lower house of parliament in two stages in the coming weeks. Elections for parliament’s less-powerful upper house will begin in late January and finish in March.

The Muslim Brotherhood was founded with the intent of establishing a caliphate (Islamic government) that would extend from Spain to Indonesia:

“The Islamic nation,” its charter states, “must be fully prepared to fight the tyrants and the enemies of Allah as a prelude to establishing an Islamic state”—ideally a re-established caliphate, stretching from Spain across the Middle East and Central Asia to Indonesia, to be governed according to Islamic sharia law. (Understanding the Muslim Brotherhood. February 14, 2011. © The Muslim Brotherhood. http://www.ikhwanweb.com/article.php?id=28019 viewed 11/21/2011)

And while that is probably too ambitious, Morocco to possibly Pakistan might happen, for a while (the Bible indicates that the peoples in the King of the South will not be completely unified (cf. Daniel 11:40-43).

We in the Living Church of God suspect that the Muslim Brotherhood may be part of making end time events happen:

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)

Ultimately, the “Arab Spring” will not produce widespread “Western-friendly” democracy throughout the Mideast! Consider that, after 57 years in exile, the fundamentalist Muslim Brotherhood is now Egypt’s “best organized political movement” (The New York Times, June 19, 2011). Months after Egypt’s supposed move toward democracy, Egyptian “mobs” are attacking pro-democracy “liberal activists,” while “hundreds of thousands of Islamists” are working toward “transforming Egypt into an Islamic state” (Wall Street Journal, August 2, 2011)! Although many do desire peace, a terrible conflict is brewing, and Muslim fundamentalism is spreading…Scripture reveals that before Jesus Christ’s return, there will be a final war between a “king of the South” (a leader of the Middle Eastern regions now primarily under the sway of Islam) and a false form of “Christianity” dominated by the “king of the North” and a blasphemous “Holy Roman Empire.” (Cieselka W. Islam: At War with Christianity? Tomorrow’s World magazine, Sept-Oct 2011, p. 27)

Right now…various Islamist groups—often foolishly called “moderate” by the mainstream media—are coming to power in Egypt, Tunisia and other African and Middle Eastern nations after the uprisings of the “Arab Spring.” The prophesied “King of the South” will soon emerge as these nations seek a “Mahdi”—a powerful religio/poltical leader who will bring them together under Islam. This “King of the South” predicted in Daniel 11:40 will no doubt be headquartered in Egypt or Saudi Arabia, not in Iran as some confused people foolishly predict. (Meredith RC. TW Subscriber letter, November 10, 2011)

One of the leaders of the Muslim Brotherhood may well become the King of the South that the Bible foretells (Daniel 11:40), including possibly one who is now getting one of the parliamentary seats that the Muslim Brotherhood has just won.

Jesus said to “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? 2012, 2013, or 2014? 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?

David Cameron

COGwriter

UK Prime Minister David Cameron is trying to prevent the European Union from increasing its power at Britain’s expense:

Eurozone crisis: PM vows to fight for national interest

BBC News – 7 December 2011

David Cameron has said he will fight to protect the UK national interest in discussions over a new EU Treaty...If all 27 EU members were asked to sign a new treaty, Mr Cameron said the UK would expect to “get a price” in return. Should the members of the eurozone decide to pursue agreement on their own, the PM said the UK would still be able to exert “some leverage”

Herman Van Rompuy

Yet, the EU President Herman van Rompuy seems to have a work around solution:

Eurozone crisis: New EU treaty ‘may not be needed’

BBC – Dec 6, 2011

Tougher rules to tackle the eurozone debt crisis can be achieved without changing EU treaties, European Council President Herman Van Rompuy says.

In a leaked report for a crucial EU summit beginning on Thursday, he offers a fast-track “fiscal compact” that does not need lengthy ratification by parliaments or national referendums.  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-16062378

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According to a two-page report from the Belgian EU chief submitted to national capitals on Tuesday (6 December), by amending a protocol attached to the Lisbon Treaty rather than changing the treaty itself, the lengthy and politically uncertain path of referendums and ratification by national parliaments can be avoided entirely.  http://euobserver.com/18/114533

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President Nicolas Sarkozy and Chancellor Angela Merkel detailed their plan to amend the EU treaty to anchor stricter budget discipline in the euro area in a letter to European Council President Herman Van Rompuy on Wednesday…Van Rompuy says tighter budget oversight sought by Paris and Berlin for the euro area could be achieved quickly by tweaking a protocol to the EU treaty that would not require full ratification procedures in many countries. http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/07/us-eurozone-idUSTRE7B30AO20111207

But ultimately, a new European “treaty” will be needed, as the Bible shows that there will be a reorganization in Europe (of course, there may be many new treaties or changes to the current one–and the meeting this week may at least contain changes to the current Lisbon Treaty, at least as to how it was originally supposed to have been understood).  The Bible shows that ultimately, a major dictator (and I do not anticipate at this time that it will be Herman van Rompuy) 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 the United Kingdom would be taken over by it and not part of it.

It seems like, at least weekly if not more often, there are items in the international press that support the view that the UK will not be part of the final European formation as anything like an equal partner, its lands  (like those of the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) will apparently be conquered by this power (cf. Daniel 11:39).

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?
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?
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.

Chinese Soldiers

COGwriter

There is more direct military cooperation going on between China and Pakistan:

China military denounces U.S.-Australia defense upgrade

BEIJING(SANA) China’s military denounced the United States and Australia on Wednesday for upgrading military ties, warning that such moves could erode trust and fan Cold War-era antagonism.

Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Geng Yansheng made the warning about a plan unveiled in mid-November by U.S. President Barack Obama and Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard to form a de facto base in north Australia for up to 2,500 U.S. Marines.  http://www.sananews.net/english/2011/12/china-military-denounces-u-s-australia-defense-upgrade/

 China, Pakistan Boost Anti-Terror Cooperationhttp://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/11/25/china-pakistan-boost-anti-terror-cooperation/

China’s Hu urges navy to prepare for combat

AFP – Dec 6, 2011

Chinese President Hu Jintao Tuesday urged the navy to prepare for military combat amid growing regional tensions over maritime disputes and a US campaign to assert itself as a Pacific power.  http://news.yahoo.com/chinas-hu-urges-navy-prepare-combat-160509787.html

China and Pakistan have long had cooperation and so have the USA and Australia–but China is not pleased with what it sees as US efforts to impede its objectives.

With the current situation with the USA and China, I believe that Australia should be concerned as I have been writing for a couple of years that China may end up with at least part of the land of Australia (see Obama Putting ‘Permanent’ Troops in Australia Because of China, But…).

With China getting more and more vocal about its displeasure about the US Marine presence in Australia, China is sending a signal to Australia that most Australians will not realize is as dangerous as it really may be.

Some articles of possible interest may include the following:

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

COGwriter

In Germany, there is a celebration of Nicholas each year on this date (other European countries tend to use other dates):

Though they have similar outfits, Nikolaus is not to be confused with Santa Claus, who Germans call the Weihnachtsmann, or Father Christmas…

Each year on December 6, Germans remember the death of Nicholas of Myra (now the Anatolia region of modern Turkey), who died on that day in 346. He was a Greek Christian bishop known for miracles and giving gifts secretly, and is now the patron saint of little children, sailors, merchants and students. Known as Nicholas the Wonderworker for his miracles, he is also identified with Santa Claus. Beliefs and traditions about Nikolaus were probably combined with German mythology, particularly regarding stories about the bearded pagan god Odin, who also had a beard and a bag to capture naughty children…

Children were often quite frightened of being questioned about their behaviour because they’ve been told that St. Nicholas will hurt them with his rod or even put them in a sack and take them away.  http://www.thelocal.de/society/20111206-15915.html

Here is some of what the Eastern Orthodox have claimed about him:

As a faithful bishop/shepherd, St. Nicholas was revered as a saint even before his death because of his great holiness and tender care of his flock. After the Blessed Mother and St. John the Forerunner (Baptist), Nicholas was the most revered saint in the early church. He is most honored in the East, especially in Russia. Throughout the world many churches are named for him—more than for any other saint. His ministry continues to this day as a powerful intercessor for the protection and advancement of the Church. (Orthodox America and St. Therese Byzantine Catholic Church, St. Petersburg, Florida.  http://www.stnicholascenter.org/pages/wonderworker/)

Of course, according to the Holy Bible, the only intercessor listed in the Bible is Christ (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25)–and He is specifically called the “one mediator” (1 Timothy 2:5, Douay-Rheims).

There is a commonly reported tradition that claims that “saint” Nicholas, Bishop of Myra (near Constantinople, to the south), the same man now supposedly known as “Santa Claus” in the USA and Nicholas in Germany, attended the Council of Nicea and assaulted Arius by hitting him in the face (Butler A, Thurston H, Attwater D. Butler’s lives of the saints, Volume 4. 2nd edition,     Christian Classics. 1956.Original from the University of Virginia, Digitized Jul 29, 2008, p. 504).

Not a particularly scriptural way for a church leader to communicate.  Actually, prior to Nicholas’ time, even Greco-Roman professors of Christ would not even watch violent sports nor participate in the military.  Thus, punching opponents should give people cause to consider that Nicholas was not a saint based upon biblical criteria.

Christmas itself is not a biblical holiday, but a compromise with pagan festive and religious practices. It was not observed by early Christians, and even the Church of Rome did not observe it on December 25th until some time in the fourth century.

This is something that those who claim that Christmas really honors Christ may wish to think about.

Some articles of possibly 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 January 1st a Date for Christians Celebrate? Historical and biblical answers to this question about the world’s New Year’s day.
Did Early Christians Celebrate Birthdays? Did biblical era Jews celebrate birthdays? Who originally celebrated birthdays? When did many that profess Christ begin birthday celebrations?
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.
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare? Here are current and historical perspectives on a matter which show the beliefs of the true church on military participation. Is war proper for Christians?
Is American Football Evil? Is the most popular spectator sport in the USA something that Christians should watch? What do the Bible and early writings show?

(Illustration by Camilo Sanchez)

COGwriter

Argentina is indicating that it has some international weight:

Argentina launches naval campaign to isolate Falkland Islands

Argentina has launched a naval campaign to isolate the Falkland Islands that has seen it detain Spanish fishing vessels on suspicion of breaking the country’s “blockade” of the seas around the British territories.

Dec 5, 2011http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/southamerica/falklandislands/8936750/Argentina-launches-naval-campaign-to-isolate-Falkland-Islands.html

Argentina flirts with Iran as West watches nervously

Times of India – Dec 5, 2011

Argentina is quietly reaching out to Iran, worrying key Western powers and Israel as they try to tighten Tehran’s international isolation over its nuclear program, UN diplomats told Reuters…Argentine exports to Iran, which dropped to a few tens of millions of dollars annually amid sour relations, have grown in recent years, soaring more than 70 percent last year to $1.5 billion. Iran is the biggest buyer of Argentine corn, a key crop for the Latin American country as it strives to bolster its trade surplus.   http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/Argentina-flirts-with-Iran-as-West-watches-nervously/articleshow/10995416.cms

The British have been losing influence all over the world, including the Western Hemisphere.  The Falkland Islands is one of the old empire’s remaining “sea gates” and Argentina has tried a variety of tactics to obtain it over the years.  The current move is certainly potentially provocative.

As far as Iran goes, Argentina may be going in a very different direction than the US and UK towards it as the following indicates:

Has the War with Iran Already Begun?

The evidence of an extensive Western covert program against Tehran, and Iranian retaliation, is now too obvious to ignore

National Journal – Dec 4, 2011

Two incidents that occurred on Sunday—Iran’s claim of a shoot-down of a U.S. drone, and an explosion outside the British embassy in Bahrain—may have been unrelated. But they appear to add to growing evidence that an escalating covert war by the West is under way against Iran, and that Tehran is retaliating with greater intensity than ever.  http://www.nationaljournal.com/has-the-war-with-iran-already-begun–20111204?page=1

It may be that we are close to a regional war in the Middle East.  It also seems that Iran, Saudi Arabia, and others are taking steps:

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards prepare for war

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have been put on a war footing amid increasing signs that the West is taking direct action to cripple Iran’s nuclear programme.  http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iran/8936797/Irans-Revolutionary-Guards-prepare-for-war.html

Iran’s Growing Latin American Ties Raise US Terror Fears

Published December 06, 2011  NewsCore
An alleged plot by Iran to hire a hit man from a Mexican cartel shed light on Iran’s growing presence in Latin America and the difficulties that poses for Washington…US officials say they were sufficiently concerned about Iranian terror links to South America that they briefed Argentine officials in May about the alleged Iranian plot to kill the Saudi ambassador, for fear the Iranians might carry out similar attacks against US, Saudi or Israeli interests in Argentina and other Latin American nations.http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/news/2011/12/06/irans-growing-latin-american-ties-raise-us-terror-fears/#ixzz1fm0FurZN

“Cold War” with Iran heats up across Mideast

Dec 5, 2011

(Reuters) – Worries of Israel striking Iran might or might not be overblown but across the region the largely hidden “cold war” between Tehran and its enemies is escalating fast, bringing with it wider risk of conflict.http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/05/us-iran-coldwar-idUSTRE7B41GC20111205

Saudi may join nuclear arms race: ex-spy chief

AFP – Dec 5, 2011

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia may consider acquiring nuclear weapons to match regional rivals Israel and Iran, its former intelligence chief Prince Turki al-Faisal said on Monday.

“Our efforts and those of the world have failed to convince Israel to abandon its weapons of mass destruction, as well as Iran… therefore it is our duty towards our nation and people to consider all possible options, including the possession of these weapons,” Faisal told a security forum in Riyadh.  http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hHglcDORk9Wk5WtM79nbDw8GC9yQ?docId=CNG.feb0db91a88e10b6954c2b41eb45d62e.631

I have been warning for almost two years that Saudi Arabia has been interested in nuclear weapons and may have already made a back-up deal with Pakistan in order to acquire them in case it felt it really needed them in that country (see Pakistan’s Nuclear Weapons, Saudi Arabia, and the King of the South, More on Saudi Nuclear Ambitions, and Saudi’s Say They Will Get Nukes if Iran Does).

As I have also written for quite some time, it may take a regional war to bring about the likely peace deal of Daniel 9:26-27.  We will see if that is the case, especially since it looks like there could be a regional war before the end of 2012.

The economy of Argentina may be affected by a regional war involving Iran.

As far as Argentina itself goes, it is my belief that based upon biblical prophecy that most of South America will ultimately align itself with the rising European power.  And includes Argentina.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Mexico, Central America, South America, Brazil, and the Caribbean in Prophecy [Español: México, America Central, Suramérica, y el Brasil en profecíal] [Português: México, América Central, Ámérica do Sul, e Brasil na profecia] What will happen to those of Latin America? Will they have prosperity? Will they cooperate with Europe? Will they suffer in the future? What rule might the various Caribbean nations/territories play?
Islands and Bible Prophecy What’s ahead for islands? What does the Bible prophesy about them?
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?
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?

Depiction of solar particles interacting with Earth’s magnetosphere

COGwriter

A German insurance group is realizing that solar flares may have major economic ramifications:

An upcoming cycle of stormy solar activity risks causing damage to electrical transformers and threatening vulnerable energy infrastructure around the globe, a report by an insurance group says.The sun follows a predictable 11 year activity cycle, with the next period of stormy activity expected to begin in 2012-13.

The report by German insurance group Allianz said a high impact solar storm, not easily predicted due to its recorded rarity, could cause blackouts and economic losses of over $1 trillion and that the worst case scenario would be even worse.  http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/02/us-energy-solar-storm-idUSTRE7B11NC20111202?feedType=RSS&feedName=scienceNews&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+reuters%2FscienceNews+%28News+%2F+US+%2F+Science%29&utm_content=Google+Reade

While the Bible itself warns of a time of scorching solar heat (Revelation 16: 8-9), it may be that increased solar activity or some human-made pulse bomb could set certain Western nations back many years (see also Galileo to Start to Launch Next Month, the Beginning of Europe Rising?).

I personally suspect that the USA itself is liable to be hit by a significant solar flare and/or some type of electronic magnetic pulse bomb (emp bomb) before it is gone.

I also wonder if Europe’s Galileo “GPS” satellites would do better in a solar flare or a pulse bomb attack as they are generally newer than the satellites of what countries like the USA have been using. If so, this could give the Europeans a massive military advantage over the USA that few would even consider could be coming.

As far as solar flares go, they were discussed in my book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect. Here are a few passages related to them:

Some scientists believe that there will be an increase in sunspot activity that will affect the earth in 2012. Notice the following from N.A.S.A.:

Solar Storm Warning: Researchers announced that a storm is coming—the most intense solar maximum in fifty years. The prediction comes from a team led by Mausumi Dikpati of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR)…

Solar physicist David Hathaway of the National Space Science & Technology Center (NSSTC)…has confidence in the conveyor belt model and agrees with Dikpati that the next solar maximum should be a doozy. But he disagrees with one point. Dikpati’s forecast puts Solar Max at 2012… a storm is coming.

Solar outbursts have been proposed that could essentially wipe out modern civilization.

Notice a scenario that is based on a report from the U.S. National Academy of Scientists (although the precise date seems to be speculative):

IT IS midnight on 22 September 2012 and the skies above Manhattan are filled with a flickering curtain of colourful light…Within 90 seconds, the entire eastern half of the US is without power.

A year later and millions of Americans are dead and the nation’s infrastructure lies in tatters. The World Bank declares America a developing nation. Europe, Scandinavia, China and Japan are also struggling to recover from the same fateful event – a violent storm, 150 million kilometres away on the surface of the sun…

According to the NAS report, a severe space weather event in the US could induce ground currents that would knock out 300 key transformers within about 90 seconds, cutting off the power for more than 130 million people…

First to go – immediately for some people – is drinkable water…With no electricity to pump water from reservoirs, there is no more…
There is simply no electrically powered transport: no trains, underground or overground…For hospitals, that would mean about 72 hours of running a bare-bones, essential care only, service. After that, no more modern healthcare.

The truly shocking finding is that this whole situation would not improve for months, maybe years…

A N.A.S.A./N.O.A.A. report indicated that the next solar cycle peak may be later, like May 2013.

While solar flares will ultimately happen (Revelation 16: 8-9), and some that affect satellites and electricity may happen sooner, a new order is truly getting set up to happen.

There are real risks for the USA, Canada, UK, and other nations. But most ignore warning signs. Will you?

Some articles that might be of assistance in understanding end-time events may include:

End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something?There is a Mayan calendar prediction for change in 2012. 2012 changes were also centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans. Do Mayan/Hindu/Hopi/Buddhist/New Age/Nostradaumus prophecies have any value here? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start before 2012?
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?
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 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 18 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 18 já começaram a acontecer.

Palace of Westminster in London

COGwriter

Another report suggests that many consider that the UK is an obstacle for significant European integration:

  5 December 2011

UK Infuriating Partners by Obstructing EU Foreign Policy…

The British government is trying to obstruct the establishment of a common EU foreign and security policy. The formation of an autonomous military headquarters failed last week after Britain alone resisted the move…

Pierre Vimont, the Secretary General of the European External Action Service, has complained privately that London has blocked a total of 96 EU statements…

Tensions between Britain and other members of the EU have grown in the euro crisis.  http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/0,1518,801756,00.html

We in the Living Church of God have long taught that the United Kingdom would not be part of the final European Beast power and ultimately will be taken over by it.

The fact that the UK is more and more irritating the Europeans on the continent may help speed this up.

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-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 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?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? What MUST happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation?
Is Tony Blair Apocalyptic? The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom converted to Catholicism shortly after leaving his office and has been active in European affairs. What role might he play?

Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad (Source: Agência Brasil, Wikipedia)
بشار الأسد

COGwriter

Today’s news has the following:

‘Embattled Assad may start conflict with Israel’

Mofaz says real possibility that Assad will try to engage Israel militarily in order to deflect attention from massacre. http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=248149

As I have been writing for some time, I suspect that the current Syrian government may decide to attack Israel.  If so, I have also warned that it is likely that Iran will cooperate with Syria (so may parts of Lebanon and other lands in the area).   Israel in the past has indicated that it is ready should Syria attack (Israel Ready to Strike Syria).  Yet, this may not turn out well for either country if this ends up in a regional war involving Israel.

Back in biblical times (cf. Isaiah 7:8) and current times, the capital of Syria has been Damascus. Notice what the Bible shows will happen to it:

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)

3 Thus says the Lord:
“For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four,
I will not turn away its punishment…5 I will also break the gate bar of Damascus,
And cut off the inhabitant from the Valley of Aven,
And the one who holds the scepter from Beth Eden.
The people of Syria shall go captive to Kir,”
Says the Lord. (Amos 1:3, 5)

Syria might 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.

It may be that as Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad notices the growing influence of the Muslim Brotherhood (like in Egypt’s latest elections, see Egyptian Election Results: Islamist Parties Fare Well) 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 (see Iran’s Ahmadinejad to Conquer Jerusalem?), the idea on an actual Iranian invasion with Syrian support seems plausible.

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.

Much is going on in the Middle East.

As Jesus said in Mark 13:37, we all should watch.

Some articles 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?

World Currencies

COGwriter

The people of the Netherlands apparently have their own potentially-serious debt problem according to page A13 of today’s Wall Street Journal:

Mortgage Burden Looms Over Dutch

BY MATTHEW DALTON

ALMERE, The Netherlands—The most debt-burdened households in the euro zone aren’t in Portugal, Ireland or Greece. Spanish households…The title of most indebted goes to households in the Netherlands, and the main reason is the enormous mortgages that the Dutch—though frugal by reputation—take out.

While the Dutch government has been an enforcer of fiscal orthodoxy throughout the European debt crisis, seeking budget cuts from governments across the euro zone, household debt is a persistent worry for Dutch regulators…

The people of, at least a portion of, the Netherlands seem to have descended from the Israelite tribe of Zebulun (haven by the sea, Genesis 49:13).

Notice a warning in Isaiah 30:12-13 to the descendants of Israel:

12 Therefore thus says the Holy One of Israel:

“Because you despise this word, And trust in oppression and perversity, And rely on them,  13 Therefore this iniquity shall be to you Like a breach ready to fall, A bulge in a high wall, Whose breaking comes suddenly, in an instant.

The Netherlands, which legalized prostitution and drug use years ago, is no longer known for the taking strong stands consistent with biblical morality.

The Dutch used to understand scripture better and many did understand:

7 The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender. (Proverbs 22:7)

But with non-biblical views of morality and debt prevalent in the world in general, and the Netherlands in particular, apparently quite a few Dutch no longer see it quite that way.

A article of possibly related interest may be:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph?  Who are the people of the Netherlands at least partially descended from?  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?

Depiction of Levites Carrying the Ark of the Covenant

COGwriter

It has been reported that an Ethiopian relic that many there claim is the Biblical Ark of the Covenant may be publicly shown:

A very British problem of a leaky church roof could be about to give the world the chance to glimpse the legendary Ark of the Covenant.

That’s because the claimed home of the iconic relic – a small chapel in Ethiopia – has sprung a leak and so the Ark could now be on the move.

The Ark – which The Bible says holds God’s Ten Commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai – is said to have been kept in Aksum, in the Chapel of the Tablet, adjacent to St Mary of Zion Church, since the 1960s.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2069765/Ark-Covenant-revealed-leaking-roof-Ethiopian-chapel.html#ixzz1ffptWtcG

I have read various older reports that the Ethiopians have long claimed to have the original Ark of the Covenant and had wondered if they would ever make this a public matter.  We will see (it could always be moved under a veil of some sort).

Regarding the claim that the Ark is actually in Ethiopia, here is something I read from an account in 1710 (and yes, the English is hard to read as the source is difficult and some words clearly are spelled incorrectly as far as we in the 21st century are concerned as it has an “f” often where we would have an “s”):

Then the aforesaid Book proceeds to give an Account how the first begotten, at the Initi’gation of Azariah the Son of Sadoc the fable about Prieft, took an Oath to one another to carry away with them the Ark. Ark of the Covenant, which they call’d the Heavenly Sion and that going by Night to the Temple, Providence fo ordering it, they found the Gates open, and put the Ark upon a Cart, and being attended by abundance of People, with much Wealth, and great Acclamations, they travell’d to fwiftly, that Solomon, who went to recover the Ark, could not overtake them, and with the fame Expedition they crofs’d the ‘Red Sea as joyfully as the Children of Ifrael had done, with only this Difference, that the Ifraelites pafs’d it on Foot without being wet, and they flying in their Chariots ; fo that the Sea obey’d the “former, and the Air was fubfervient to the latter.

This Book farther tells us, that when Queen Maqueda underfood that her Son already made King was coming, and brought along with him all the firft begotten, as alfo the Ark of the Heavemly God of Sion, (he went out with great Solemnity to meet them, and plac’d the Ark in the Temp!e of the Laud of Maqueda, all the People of Ethiopia receiving the Knowledge of the true God (Balthazar Telles, John Stevens. The Travels of the Jesuits in Ethiopia. J Knapton, 1710, University of Lausanne, p. 69).

The above would not seem biblically likely, but the Ethiopians have long believed that the Ark is in their country and that a son of Solomon, who is not mentioned in the Bible, brought it there.

However, the Bible shows that well after Solomon’s sons would have died, that the Ark was still in Jerusalem:

35:1 Now Josiah kept a Passover to the LORD in Jerusalem, and they slaughtered the Passover lambs on the fourteenth day of the first month. 2 And he set the priests in their duties and encouraged them for the service of the house of the LORD. 3 Then he said to the Levites who taught all Israel, who were holy to the LORD: “Put the holy ark in the house which Solomon the son of David, king of Israel, built. It shall no longer be a burden on your shoulders. Now serve the LORD your God and His people Israel (2 Chronicles 35:1-3).

Thus, if the Ark of the Covenant possibly made it to Ethiopia it was not until well AFTER the Ethiopians normally claim it first came there.

Notice also the following:

The Book of Revelation says the Ark is in the temple of God in heaven (Rev. 11:19). Muslim scholars say it will be found near the end of times by the Mahdi – a messianic figure in Islam. http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=102119

It is interesting, however, that many of the Muslims believe that there Mahdi will rise up after the finding of the Ark (the Mahdi of Islamic prophecy seems to be the same one that the Bible indicates will be the final King of the South).  Events seem to be happening in the Arab nations that align with the rising up of such a leader.  Perhaps, if the Ark is publicly shown, he could point to it as proof that his timing for rising up was prophesied.  We will see.

I perhaps should add that certain Catholic prophecies indicate that the two witnesses (which they often consider will be Enoch and Elijah) will rise up after the Ark is found:

Bl. Dionysus of Luetzenberg…prophecies:

“After the discovery of the Ark of the Covenant, Enoch and Elias will restore the Holy Sacrament of the Altar; Because of the fact that the Ark of the Covenant will be in the possession of the two holy prophets and not in Antichrist’s hands, the Jews will recognize that Jesus is the true Messias…”

( Luetzenberg, Antichristus Chapter 29 as cited in Birch D.A. Trial, Tribulation & Triumph. Queenship Publishing, Goleta (CA), 1996, p. 509)

Now the Bible is clear that the Ark of the Covenant will be in heaven:

Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail. (Revelation 11:19)

And it probably is there now.  But since both Islamic and Catholic prophecies suggest that it will be found, it is possible that some of them will point to the Ark in Ethiopia as proof that their prophecies are to be fulfilled.  Or perhaps to a different location in the future.

I presume that if the Ark is shown, some may wish to more thoroughly examine it. However, if it is the actual Ark of the Covenant, this would seem to be quite dangerous from a biblical point of view:

1 Again David gathered all the choice men of Israel, thirty thousand. 2 And David arose and went with all the people who were with him from Baale Judah to bring up from there the ark of God, whose name is called by the Name, the LORD of Hosts, who dwells between the cherubim. 3 So they set the ark of God on a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill; and Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, drove the new cart. 4 And they brought it out of the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill, accompanying the ark of God; and Ahio went before the ark. 5 Then David and all the house of Israel played music before the LORD on all kinds of instruments of fir wood, on harps, on stringed instruments, on tambourines, on sistrums, and on cymbals.

6 And when they came to Nachon’s threshing floor, Uzzah put out his hand to the ark of God and took hold of it, for the oxen stumbled. 7 Then the anger of the LORD was aroused against Uzzah, and God struck him there for his error; and he died there by the ark of God. (2 Samuel 6:1-7)

Only Levites were supposed to move the Ark, and that is what David finally realized. Non-Levites, like Uzzah were never supposed to touch it.

While it may be remotely possible that the Ark could be in Ethiopia (as I think the Bible more strongly indicates that it is in heaven and not on the earth), I remain highly skeptical that what might be shown will actually be it.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Why is a Jewish Temple in Jerusalem Not Required? Although people like Timothy LaHaye teach a third Jewish temple is required, who is ‘the temple of God” in the New Testament? What does the Bible teach about the temple in the end-times?
Solomon’s TempleThis is a a 5 minute animated film that shows one artist’s understanding of the details about Solomon’s temple.
Africa: Its Biblical Past and Prophesied Future What does the Bible teach about Africa and its future? Did the early Church reach Africa? Were there Sabbath-keepers in Ethiopia? Will God call all the Africans?
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.
Who Are The Two Witnesses? What is their job? What does the Bible reveal? What has the Church of God taught on this subject? Might even Roman Catholic prophecies give some clues here?