Church of God News

COGwriter

In the Mar-Apr 2012 issues of CG7- Denver’s Bible Advocate, its former president Calvin Burrell wrote the following answer to the listed question about faith and works:

Question Your church doctrinal statement suggests to me that salvation requires faith plus works. Do you believe that good works are required for saving faith?

Answer Teaching truth on this topic requires more than a simple verse or paragraph. Accuracy and simplicity don’t often come in the same package. On one hand, Christian salvation comes by God’s grace to humble (repentant) sinners who call upon the name of the Lord in faith — before they respond with good works. This fact is found in many texts, like Luke 18:9-14; Acts 16:31; Romans 3:20-28; 4:1-6; 10:13; Galatians 2:15, 16; and Titus 3:4-7. In this sense, saving faith does not require us to produce good works nor attain a minimal level of obedience in order to be fully pardoned for our sins. We stand righteous before God — justified — ever and always by His grace through faith, not by our works (Eph. 2:8, 9). On the other hand, those who’ve known and trusted God’s free gift of grace do give evidence of their saved condition by obeying God’s Word and doing good works. This fact too is taught in many scriptures, like Matthew 5:16; Titus 2:14; 3:8; Hebrews 11:23, 24; James 2:14-26; and 1 Peter 2:12. In this sense, we who are forgiven embrace good deeds as the natural twin and outgrowth of saving faith, but we never endorse works as the cause or source of our salvation (add verse 10 to Eph. 2:8, 9). The two truths outlined above find classical expression in the New Testament. Paul states the first like this: “A man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ . . . by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified” (Gal. 2:16). The second truth comes from James’ pen: “A man is justified by works, and not by faith only” (James 2:24). These two quotes offer clear contrast: James says both faith and works are required to be justified, while Paul says works justify no one. This is a paradox, as is the ambiguity noted in our doctrine — but not a contradiction! Further study shows that Paul’s and James’ unique emphases fit their respective audiences. Writing mostly to Gentiles, Paul chooses the word works (Gal. 2:16) to preserve the simple gospel from legalistic pollutions. James (2:24) uses the same word in rousing complacent Hebrew Christians to put their faith into action. Similarly, the word justified has the technical meaning of “salvation” in Paul and a more general sense in James — that of supplying evidence. Thus we see how the two apostles wrote harmonizing truths, not contradictions. Combining Paul and James into a single, notso- simple sentence, we may say this: Works do not save a man, but a saved man works. Or this: We are saved by faith alone, but the faith that saves is never alone. A third attempt at synthesizing Paul and James is this: We are not saved by faith and works, but by a faith that works (see Gal. 5:6). No, we do not believe that saving faith requires faith and works. Sins are forgiven and eternal life bestowed by God’s grace alone, in response to faith. This simple gospel comforts the afflicted and reassures every struggling soul who truly trusts! Yes, we do believe that good works and godly obedience are present to some degree in every Christian life. Those who stand right with God by faith in Christ do have a growing desire and commitment to follow their Lord and Savior in all that’s good and right. This truth afflicts the comfortable and points us ever to Jesus, who alone can save. — Elder Calvin Burrell

There are a few scriptures that CG7 did not fully quote that perhaps should be added as they may make the subject clearer:

11 Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. 13 And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace. 15 What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Certainly not!  (Romans 6:11-16)

14 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.   18 But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe — and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?  21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? 22 Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? 23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. 24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.  25 Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?  26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. (James 2:14-26)

Christians are to be dead to sin, hence not sin, in order to having a living faith.  The faith of Jesus.

In its latest commentary, the Living Church of God has the following:

Commentary: Of Grace and Obedience

By Wyatt Ciesielka | Saturday, March 10, 2012

Can we obtain salvation by our own efforts? If we obtain salvation, is it true that “once saved, always saved”? Many people are confused about the truth behind these doctrines. Scripture tells us that a Christian is justified by grace (Titus 3:7). So, what does it mean that we must not lose what we have worked for (2 John 1:8)? If justification is by Christ’s blood (Romans 5:8-10), then why is eternal life the reward of the righteous (Matthew 25:46), while eternal death awaits the unrepentant sinner (Ezekiel 18:4; Romans 6:23; Revelation 21:8)?

To help answer these questions, consider a vital but often-misunderstood verse in Scripture. Ephesians 2:8 tells us, “For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast” (KJV).

Clearly, grace is a “gift from God.” But, is this grace a permanent state, such that “once saved, always saved”? To find the answer, we can look more closely at this verse. The phrase “are ye saved” uses a present-progressive verb. A “present-progressive” verb describes an ongoing action. Any good Bible concordance will verify that the KJV correctly renders the tense of the original Greek verb. Sadly, many newer translations wrongly translate the phrase as “you have been saved”—which can wrongly imply a permanent condition—leading readers to infer wrongly the “once saved, always saved” doctrine.

Note in particular that the Greek verb este, used in this verse, does not demand a permanent state. A similar verb construction occurs in Luke 9:55, where Christ rebuked James and John for wanting to call fire down from heaven. Jesus told them, “You know not what manner of spirit you are [este] of.” The context makes it clear that this was a presently continuing state (“present-progressive”), and not a permanent condition. At that particular time (“presently,”) James and John were speaking according to a wrong spirit, but it would be foolish to suggest that these two apostles remained forever in that state! Rather, as with any present-progressive verb, the condition may or may not continue into the future.

So, putting all this together, the most precise translation of Ephesians 2:8, in light of modern English grammar, would be that we “are being” saved through faith.

And what of obedience? Millions believe that once they accept Christ and receive the Holy Spirit, they “are” saved. This is the “once saved, always saved” doctrine. Although some find it comforting, it is a dangerous false doctrine, for it is not what the Bible teaches! Notice that, as ancient King David recorded in Psalm 51, the Holy Spirit can be “taken” from someone who is obstinately sinful and unrepentant. David had only to remember the tragedy of King Saul, who had the Holy Spirit taken from him (1 Samuel 16:14). The Apostle Paul further develops this point in his letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 6:4-6). So, we can see that the Bible does not teach “once saved, always saved.”

The key to understanding these points is that many have been convinced to assume a false dichotomy. They wonder about grace or obedience, when the Bible teaches the interrelationship of grace and obedience.

Grace is God’s unmerited love and pardon toward us (Titus 3:4-5; Romans 5:10). No one who has ever lived, with the sole exception of Jesus Christ, has ever deserved grace. And no amount of our effort can earn us God’s grace. Grace is a gift from God.

However, grace does not give us a right to sin. Paul asked whether Christians should continue in sin just so grace should abound, he answered definitively: “Certainly not!” (Romans 6:1-2). Rather, by our Christian faith, we “uphold the law” (Romans 3:31). If we sin, we commit lawlessness—we break God’s law (1 John 3:4)! We cannot break a law that does not exist! Instead, we use the Holy Spirit that God has given to us, and through that Spirit we grow in grace and righteousness, able to receive God’s gift of eternal life (Romans 6:20-22).

For further study on this vital subject, read our informative Tomorrow’s World article, “Obedience vs. Grace?” or watch our telecast, “Law or Grace?”

Many, especially those who claim a certain type of Protestantism, misunderstand most of the truth about the law and salvation. The truth is that while obeying it does not bring salvation (which only comes through Jesus Christ), intentionally disobeying can demonstrate lack of conversion.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Are the Ten Commandment Still in Effect? This article quotes the ten commandments and they are shown at Mount Sinai, before Mount Sinai, in the teachings of Jesus, after the crucifixion, and in the teachings of Paul. It addresses the most common “traditions of men” regarding them as well.
Were the Pharisees Condemned for Keeping the Law or Reasoning Around it? Many believe that the Pharisees were condemned for keeping the law, but what does your Bible say? If they were not condemned for that, what were they condemned for?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?
Was the Commandment to Love the Only Command? Some have stated that John’s writings teach this, but is that what the Bible really says?
The Ten Commandments and the Early Church Did Jesus and the Early Church keep the ten commandments? What order were they in? Here are quotes from the Bible and early writings.
Is God Unreasonable? Some have suggested that if God requires Sabbath-keeping He is unreasonable. Is that true?
Which Laws Are Done Away? Which Remain? What about the Ten Commandments? What about the 613 regulations (called 613 Mitzvot) in the Old Testament?
True vs. False Conversion Are you really converted or willing to be? What is true conversion? What is false conversion? What are the dangers of false conversion? Evangelist Roderick Meredith provides information on those important questions.
Church of God, Seventh Day: History and Teachings Nearly all COG’s I am aware of trace their history through this group. Whaid Rose is the president of the largest CG7 group (Denver). Do you know much about them?
Hope of Salvation: How the Living Church of God differ from most Protestants How the Living Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background.
The Similarities and Dissimilarities between Martin Luther and Herbert W. Armstrong This article clearly shows some of the doctrinal differences between in the two. At this time of doctrinal variety and a tendency by many to accept certain aspects of Protestantism, the article should help clarify why the Living Church of God is NOT Protestant. Do you really know what the Protestant Reformer Martin Luther taught and should you follow his doctrinal example?
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

Notice the following:

American servicemember opens fire on Afghans, 15 dead

USA TODAY 11 March 2012- ‎BALANDI, Afghanistan (AP) – A US service member walked out of a base in southern Afghanistan before dawn Sunday and started shooting Afghan civilians, according to villagers and Afghan and NATO officials.

3 Palestinians killed in Israeli airstrikes

‎Huffington Post -IBRAHIM BARZAK | March 11, 2012 08:31 AM EST | AP GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Israeli airstrikes killed a schoolboy and two other Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, while Gaza rocket squads fired salvos into southern Israel, deepening the worst round of violence between the sides in more than a year. A Gaza health official said a 12-year-old boy, a 60-year-old farm guard and a militant were killed as the exchanges of fire entered their third day.

And yes, some in Afghanistan are trying to kill Americans and some in Gaza are trying to kill Israelis.

Here is a section of prophetic scripture I would like to quote:

23 ‘Make a chain,
For the land is filled with crimes of blood,
And the city is full of violence.
24 Therefore I will bring the worst of the Gentiles,
And they will possess their houses;
I will cause the pomp of the strong to cease,
And their holy places shall be defiled.
25 Destruction comes;
They will seek peace, but there shall be none. (Ezekiel 7:23-25)

Violence leads to violence.  Eventually, the descendants of Israel will experience more of it than they believe that they will.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Christian Soldiers How are Christians to be like soldiers? How are they to be different?
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?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012 or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What is the “beginning of sorrows”? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? Eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. This article includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article on this page on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
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.
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? If so, what does that really mean for the USA and its Anglo allies.
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?
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?

COGwriter

In the latest TW News & Prophecy, LCG reported:

In the central United States, more than 150 tornadoes touched down from February 28 through March 3. These storms killed 49 people and literally wiped several towns “off the map.” Most of the tornadoes occurred in the five states of Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois and Alabama. “The U.S. has experienced 272 tornadoes this year through March 4, more than twice the seven-year average for the period….” Damage estimates range from U.S. $1-2 billion so far (Bloomberg.com, March 6, 2012). 2011 was the U.S.’s deadliest year in more than 100 years, with more than 550 deaths, and if the first part of 2012 is any indicator, this could be another very deadly year (ChicagoTribune.com, March 5, 2012).

Bible prophecies make it clear that severe weather will characterize end-time events (Luke 21:11; Leviticus 26:14-15, 19-21). However, there is a better time coming when the Messiah will usher in an era of unparalleled peace–a time when sorrow, crying, pain and death will begin to disappear (Revelation 21:4). In the meantime, students of the Bible should not be surprised to witness increasing weather disasters as yet another sign of the end of the age.

For more information about end-time weather and prophecy, review our free booklet: Who Controls the Weather?

In yesterday’s announcements at church services, LCG reported:

Brethren Protected During Storms

Southern Indiana and Kentucky experienced violent storms and destructive tornados on Friday, March 2. The damage and loss is still being assessed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Many small communities were completely destroyed, as you may have seen in news coverage.

It was very evident that God protected the homes and lives of the members of His Church. Numerous powerful tornados left paths of devastation on both sides of many of the homes and property of our brethren across the area. Some members in the Louisville and Berea, Kentucky, congregations did, however, have relatives who were seriously injured or whose homes were leveled or who suffered property damage. In the extended family of one member there were three fatalities.

As we witness the loss and suffering of so many others, we are very thankful for God’s protection and His mercy.—Lambert Greer

It is great that many were protected.

Weather related issues, however, should serve as a wake-up call that the world can change very quickly and that the time to repent is now:

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

There are troubles and repentance is needed.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers those important questions.
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading.
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012, 2013, or 2014? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? What is “the beginning of sorrows”? Have we begun or are we about ready for “the beginning of sorrows” to begin.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? Are there Mayan calendar predictions for change in 2012? Changes were centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans. Do Mayan/Hindu/Hopi/Buddhist/New Age/Nostradamus prophecies have any value here? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start before 2012? How might Barack Obama be involved in 2012?

COGwriter

Sunday at two a.m., the USA and some other nations changed their clocks to go off of Standard Time and back to Daylight Savings Time:

At 2 a.m. on the morning of Sunday, March 11, we’ll be springing our clocks forward—and losing an hour of the day, for daylight saving time. The good news: sunset will be an hour later.  http://greenfield.patch.com/articles/spring-forward-daylight-saving-time-2012-begins-sunday-3037e170

Because of that, sunset will be over an hour later this Friday.

Those of us who observe the weekly Sabbath from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday may wish to remember that.

Here is a link for Sunset Times for the U.S.A. (and international cities if longitudinal location is known).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is Revelation 1:10 talking about Sunday or the Day of the Lord? Most Protestant scholars say Sunday is the Lord’s Day, but is that what the Bible teaches?
The Sabbath in the Early Church and Abroad Was the seventh-day (Saturday) Sabbath observed by the apostolic and post-apostolic Church?
The Dramatic Story of Chinese Sabbathkeepers This reformatted Good News article from 1955 discusses Sabbath-keeping in China in the 1800s.
Is God Unreasonable? Some have suggested that if God requires Sabbath-keeping He is unreasonable. Is that true?
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.

Rowan Williams

COGwriter

The Anglican Archbishop of Canterbury is meeting with Pope Benedict XVI today:

Archbishop of Canterbury, Pope to Reaffirm Anglican-Catholic Solidarity

Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams and head of the Catholic Church Pope Benedict XVI will come together in prayer this coming Saturday in a symbolic gesture of solidarity and unity after years of tension over Anglicans shifting to the Roman Catholic Church.

…The choirs of the Westminster Abbey and the Vatican will also hold two joint performances later this month, which many view as a sign of burying the hatchet.

A Vatican spokesperson called the prayers and joint performances a sign “of moving together along the same path” for the two churches, according to AFP.

http://sg.christianpost.com/dbase/church/2771/section/1.htm

Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams to pray with Pope

‎

Kent Online – March 9, 2012

The Archbishop of Canterbury will pray with the Pope on a visit to Rome today. Dr Rowan Williams is to lead an evening prayer service with Pope Benedict XVI.

A few years ago, the Anglican leader indicated that the Vatican’s plan for accepting Anglicans back to Rome would essentially lead to chaos (see UK Archbishop Foresees Chaos and Uncertainty for Anglicans).

Perhaps he has changed his mind.  Rowan Williams is in a difficult position.  He is losing people to Rome and his church is having less and less influence in the UK.

In the past, Rowan Williams made it clear that he supports the ordination of women and that he will not unify will Rome unless the Vatican changes on this–which is not something that the Vatican is prepared to now do.

Due to Rowan Williams’ insistence on the ordination of women, he and those that follow him will likely remain away from Rome. Hence, despite the outward appearances of cooperation, this will likely lead to a deep divide between the Anglicans that remain with Canterbury and the Vatican. This may have profound affects on the UK and others in the future.

All in the Protestant and Eastern Orthodox worlds will need to decide, probably within the next ten years or so, if they will stay where they are, support the original Church of God, or will merge into an ecumenical modified form of Catholicism. The Anglicans are beginning to face that decision now, and some have chosen Rome in the past few years.

Those who truly believe in the old Protestant rallying cry of sola Scriptura as well as those that believe that they should keep the same faith that Jesus and His disciples had, should look more into church history and realize that they should support the true and living, Church of God.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Women and the New Testament Church Were women important in the New Testament Church? Which women and how were they involved? Were they ordained to be presbyters?
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?
Why Should American Catholics Should Fear Unity with the Orthodox? Are the current ecumenical meetings a good thing or will they result in disaster?
Orthodox Must Reject Unity with the Roman Catholics The talks for unification involve compromise and the apparent rising up of a changed religion that no one should accept.
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.
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?
Sola Scriptura or Prima Luther? What Did Martin Luther Really Believe About the Bible? Though he is known for his public sola Scriptura teaching, did Martin Luther’s writings about the Bible suggest he felt that prima Luther was his ultimate authority? Statements from him changing and/or discounting 18 books of the Bible are included. Do you really want to know the truth?
Hope of Salvation: How the Living Church of God differ from most Protestants How the Living Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background.
The History of Early Christianity Are you aware that what most people believe is not what truly happened to the true Christian church? Do you know where the early church was based? Do you know what were the doctrines of the early church? Is your faith really based upon the truth or compromise?
What Do Roman Catholic Scholars Actually Teach About Early Church History? Although most believe that the Roman Catholic Church history teaches an unbroken line of succession of bishops beginning with Peter, with stories about most of them, Roman Catholic scholars know the truth of this matter. This eye-opening article is a must-read for any who really wants to know what Roman Catholic history actually admits about the early church.
Nazarene Christianity: Were the Original Christians Nazarenes? Should Christians be Nazarenes today? What were the practices of the Nazarenes.
Location of the Early Church: Another Look at Ephesus, Smyrna, and Rome What actually happened to the primitive Church? And did the Bible tell about this in advance?
Apostolic Succession What really happened? Did structure and beliefs change? Are many of the widely-held current understandings of this even possible? Did you know that Catholic scholars really do not believe that several of the claimed “apostolic sees” of the Orthodox have apostolic succession–despite the fact that the current pontiff himself seems to wish to ignore this view?  Is there actually a true church that has ties to any of the apostles that is not part of the Catholic or Orthodox churches?  Read this article if you truly are interested in the truth on this matter!
Early Church History: Who Were the Two Major Groups Professed Christ in the Second and Third Centuries? Did you know that many in the second and third centuries felt that there were two major, and separate, professing Christian groups in the second century, but that those in the majority churches tend to now blend the groups together and claim “saints” from both? “Saints” that condemn some of their current beliefs. Who are the two groups?

COGwriter

Today’s TW News & Prophecy from the Living Church of God has the following:

Lost the game but won the battle.

The basketball team of Beren Academy (an Orthodox Jewish High School), almost missed a semi-final tournament game because team members refused to play at the scheduled time–on the Sabbath. The Academy asked for rescheduling, but the request was denied by the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools. Yet the players were not willing to compromise, and they stayed faithful to the Sabbath. Beren senior, Isaac Mirwis, said, “it’s tradition, it’s principle, and we stick true to our principles and that’s what makes an identity. God doesn’t take a week off from us, so we can’t take a week off from God” (Associated Press, February, 28, 2012).

Two days later, a Texas judge ordered the game rescheduled to avoid the Sabbath conflict. Beren Academy won the game (Foxnews.com, March 1, 2012). They went on to play in the championship game, which they lost 46-42.

The team set a fine example of standing strong in the day of adversity (Proverbs 24:10) and not compromising God’s Sabbath. God promised to be our Helper in time of need (Hebrews 13:5-6). God does not change (Malachi 3:6), and He still defends those who obey His commandments (Joshua 1:7-9).

We are admonished to pray for those in authority so we may live a quiet and peaceful life (1 Timothy 2:1-2). In this case, a “ruler over them” (a judge), enabled the Beren team to keep the Sabbath and still play ball! God keeps His promises!

For more information on the Sabbath Day, request our free booklet, Which Day Is the Christian Sabbath?

Of course, it is not just Jews that keep the Sabbath.  Jesus, the Apostle Paul, and all the early Christians did.

There have been Chinese and other Sabbath-keepers who have endured various tests and trials, but who remained faithful to the word of God.

The Sabbath, according to the Bible is the seventh-day of the week (Saturday), and remains to for real Christians:

Now we who have believed enter that rest, just as God has said, “So I declared on oath in my anger, ‘They shall never enter my rest.'” And yet his work has been finished since the creation of the world. For somewhere he has spoken about the seventh day in these words: “And on the seventh day God rested from all his work.” And again in the passage above he says, “They shall never enter my rest.” It still remains that some will enter that rest, and those who formerly had the gospel preached to them did not go in, because of their disobedience…There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience (Hebrews 4:3-6,9-11, NIV).

This clearly shows that the command to keep the seventh day Sabbath is in the New Testament. It also shows that only those who will not observe it because of their disobedience argue otherwise. And that is why Paul observed it. Even Origen understood some of what the New Testament recorded above as he wrote:

But what is the feast of the Sabbath except that which the apostle speaks, “There remaineth therefore a Sabbatism,” that is, the observance of the Sabbath, by the people of God…let us see how the Sabbath ought to be observed by a Christian. On the Sabbath-day all worldly labors ought to be abstained from…give yourselves up to spiritual exercises, repairing to church, attending to sacred reading and instruction…this is the observance of the Christian Sabbath (Translated from Origen’s Opera 2, Paris, 1733, Andrews J.N. in History of the Sabbath, 3rd editon, 1887. Reprint Teach Services, Brushton (NY), 1998, pp. 324-325).

While some have chosen to reason around what scripture teaches, some others have remained faithful to the word of God.

Some articles of possible interest may include:

The Sabbath in the Early Church and Abroad Was the seventh-day (Saturday) Sabbath observed by the apostolic and post-apostolic Church?
The Dramatic Story of Chinese Sabbathkeepers This reformatted Good News article from 1955 discusses Sabbath-keeping in China in the 1800s.
The Apostle Paul He was an apostle, early Christian leader, and wrote more books of the New Testament than anyone else. Do you know much about him?
What Did Jesus Teach About the Ten Commandments? This article quotes what Jesus actually said about them (His words are in red).
Were the Ten Commandments Nailed to the Cross? Some have said so. This article provides some biblical quotes to answer this important question.
What Did Paul Actually Teach About the Ten Commandments? Many say Paul taught against the ten commandments. Is this true? This article quotes Paul with his words in green.
Are the Ten Commandment Still in Effect? This article quotes the ten commandments and combines some of the previous articles into one article about the ten commandments. The commandments are shown at Mount Sinai, before Mount Sinai, in the teachings of Jesus, after the crucifixion, and in the teachings of Paul. It addresses the most common “traditions of men” regarding them as well.
Were the Pharisees Condemned for Keeping the Law or Reasoning Around it? Many believe that the Pharisees were condemned for keeping the law, but what does your Bible say? If they were not condemned for that, what were they condemned for?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?
Was the Commandment to Love the Only Command? Some have stated that John’s writings teach this, but is that what the Bible really says?
The Ten Commandments and the Early Church Did Jesus and the Early Church keep the ten commandments? What order were they in? Here are quotes from the Bible and early writings.

Palace of Westminster in London

COGwriter

Many no longer consider Britain to be “Great” and its influence around the world is decreasing:

UK lawmakers: Prepare for loss of global influence

LONDON (AP) — Britain can no longer ignore that its influence on the world is shrinking amid the rise of developing nations, a panel of senior lawmakers said Thursday in a sharply critical report…

Britain’s national security strategy, published in October 2010, insisted that the U.K. would maintain its position as a major world power, despite budget constraints and the shift of economic might from the West to the developing world.

“This is wholly unrealistic in the medium to long term and the U.K. needs to plan for a changing, and more partnership dependent, role in the world,” the committee said it its report…Committee Chairman Margaret Beckett, a former foreign secretary, said Britain must decide what “sort of country we want the U.K. to be in future and whether our ambitions are realistic.”  http://news.yahoo.com/uk-lawmakers-prepare-loss-global-influence-113437074.html

Britain’s place as a military power is declining in at least relative terms around the world.  Many other steps are taking place in Europe and the world that are further going to reduce Britain’s place as a major financial capital of the world.

Another financial system starting to arise in Europe and the Anglo-descended nations will not like what will replace Anglo-capitalism in that new world order.

But ultimately, Jesus will come and establish His kingdom with, amongst other things, a proper economic system.  But until then, overall, Britain will see that it has less influence on the world scene than it did in its glory days or even as it did a decade or so ago.

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?
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? True religion should be based upon the true gospel.
id The Early Church Teach Millenarianism? Was the millennium (sometimes called chiliasm) taught by early Christians? Who condemned it? Will Jesus literally reign for 1000 years on the earth? Is this time near?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2019 or 202x?

COGwriter

Notice the following:

1:38 PM, March 8, 2012

The US offered to give Israel advanced weaponry — including bunker-busting bombs and refueling planes — in exchange for Israel’s agreement not to attack Iranian nuclear sites, Israeli newspaper Maariv reported Thursday.

President Obama reportedly made the offer during Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington this week.

Under the proposed deal, Israel would not attack Iran until 2013, after US elections in November this year. The newspaper cited unnamed Western diplomatic and intelligence sources. http://www.nypost.com/p/news/international/attack_offered_israel_advanced_weaponry_vJzadL8Qw5XoQ7akSRO9yK

The above, presuming it is true, is consistent with a comment in my March 5, 2012 post that “It seems that the USA President is hinting that at some point in time (and perhaps during this election year) that the USA may decide to support Israel in an attack against Iran (the UK, Australia, and Canada could also get involved) if Iran does not agree to not become a nuclear power.”

This type of attack would have devastating effects on Iran, yet it could also cause the USA debt, terrorist, and other problems. It could eliminate Iran as a major force in the Islamic world–something that I have written about for some time–as it is something that either needs to happen directly (through war) and/or indirectly (civil unrest and change in Iran).

Yet, while the USA President hopes not to have a major war, I suspect that a regional war in the Middle East could get out of control, especially presuming Syria is involved (the USA keeps dropping hints about supporting the opposition in Syria that Syria would almost certainly get involved).   Syria itself is having major problems now.  Notice also a news headline from a few moments ago: Syrian Minister Appears to Defect and Join Opposition.   Syrian involvement with Iran (or other unrest, including internal unrest) may result in so much damage to Damascus (Isaiah 17:1) and/or Iran that it could spur massive outrage in the Islamic world. Enough so that the primarily Sunni Arabs will likely decide that they need closer unity and will support some type of caliph/Mahdi and that the biblical King of the South will rise up.

According to the Bible, the King of the South (Daniel 11:40) will rise up and we will see if this happens sometime after a conflict with Iran.

This does not mean that I believe that Israel (or the USA and its allies for that matter) will end up without potentially severe losses, only that Iran and Syria may start to feel so desperate that they will conclude that military conflict with Israel is their best option–if so, this would be a mistake on those nations’ part.  But with a date of 2013 (or earlier if Israel does not wait), they (if the current Syrian regime lasts long enough, and it may not) may feel that they have no choice but to get more aggressive themselves.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012 or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What is the “beginning of sorrows”? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? Eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. This article includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article on this page on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
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.
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? If so, what does that really mean for the USA and its Anglo allies.
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?
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?

COGwriter

Notice the following from the Book of Daniel:

5 And the king appointed for them a daily provision of the king’s delicacies and of the wine which he drank, and three years of training for them, so that at the end of that time they might serve before the king. 6 Now from among those of the sons of Judah were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. 7 To them the chief of the eunuchs gave names: he gave Daniel the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abed-Nego.

8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. 9 Now God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs. 10 And the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear my lord the king, who has appointed your food and drink. For why should he see your faces looking worse than the young men who are your age? Then you would endanger my head before the king.”

11 So Daniel said to the steward whom the chief of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 12 “Please test your servants for ten days, and let them give us vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13 Then let our appearance be examined before you, and the appearance of the young men who eat the portion of the king’s delicacies; and as you see fit, so deal with your servants.” 14 So he consented with them in this matter, and tested them ten days.

15 And at the end of ten days their features appeared better and fatter in flesh than all the young men who ate the portion of the king’s delicacies.  (Daniel 1:5-16)

The “king’s delicacies” probably would have included meats that the Bible teaches as unclean and that would be a reason that Daniel and his companions would not wish to be “defiled” by it (the Bible absolutely does allow the consumption of meat per Deuteronomy 14:4,9,11 and Jesus is shown to have consumed fish in Luke 24:42, etc.).  And by avoiding them and eating more vegetables Daniel and his companions appeared better looking relatively soon than those who did not avoid them.

Notice the following news story:

How fruit and vegetables could make you more attractive

New Zealand Herald – March 8, 2012

If the fact that they’re nutritious isn’t enough to get you eating more fruit and vegetables, here’s some news that may convince you – they make you look good too.

People who increased their intake were rated more attractive after just six weeks, UK researchers found.

Scientists at St Andrews University in the United Kingdom monitored the food consumption of 35 people and took pictures of them over this period.

Eating an average of 2.9 more portions of fruit and vegetables a day made them look more healthy when the rated by others at the end of the study, while an extra 3.3 portions enhanced their attractiveness.  http://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/news/article.cfm?c_id=6&objectid=10790685

You look good enough to eat

Wednesday 07 March 2012

Eating more fruit and veg can make your skin glow within a matter of weeks, according to new research.

The new study, by scientists at the University of St Andrews, proves that eating ‘five a day’ really is good for you.

The researchers hope that their findings, which don’t preach about long term health benefits, will appeal to the nation’s vanity instead.

The research, published today (Wednesday 7 March 2012), examined the impact of carotenoid pigments – orangey-red pigments found in fruit and vegetables – on skin colour.

The results showed that just two extra portions of fruit and vegetables per day created a detectable change in skin colour within six weeks…Poor diet represents a major source of preventable illness and death worldwide. The researchers say that 75% of people in the UK currently do not eat the NHS recommended “5-a-day”  http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/news/archive/2012/Title,82727,en.html

I have long realized that people who do not eat enough fruit tend to wrinkle faster than those who average at least two servings per day (smoking cigarettes also increases wrinkling).  And while the above study was only a short-term one, I suspect that a long-term study would tend to confirm my observations related to wrinkles here.

Eating more fruits and vegetables tends to fill people up more and decrease their consumption of excessive amounts of meats and refined carbohydrates–avoiding excessive amounts of meat (Proverbs 23:20) and eating less refined carbohydrates (cf. Isaiah 55:2, Proverbs 25:16,27) also seems to be something that the Bible advocates.

Here are a few other scriptures about food from the Hebrew scriptures (often called the Old Testament):

4 He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, And vegetation for the service of man, That he may bring forth food  from the earth,  15 And wine that makes glad the heart of man, Oil to make his face shine, And bread which strengthens man’s heart.  (Psalms 104:14-15)

27 You shall have enough goats’ milk for your food, For the food of your household, And the nourishment of your  maidservants.  (Proverbs 27:27)

2 “Speak to the children of Israel, saying, ‘These are the animals which you may eat among all the animals that are on the earth: 3 Among the animals, whatever divides the hoof, having cloven hooves and chewing the cud — that you may eat. 4 Nevertheless these you shall not eat among those that chew the cud or those that have cloven hooves: the camel, because it chews the cud but does not have cloven hooves, is unclean to you; 5 the rock hyrax, because it chews the cud but does not have cloven hooves, is unclean to you; 6 the hare, because it chews the cud but does not have cloven hooves, is unclean to you; 7 and the swine, though it divides the hoof, having cloven hooves, yet does not chew the cud, is unclean to you. 8 Their flesh you shall not eat, and their carcasses you shall not touch. They are unclean to you.  9 ‘These you may eat of all that are in the water: whatever in the water has fins and scales, whether in the seas or in the rivers — that you may eat. 10 But all in the seas or in the rivers that do not have fins and scales, all that move in the water or any living thing which is in the water, they are an abomination to you. 11 They shall be an abomination to you; you shall not eat their flesh, but you shall regard their carcasses as an abomination. 12 Whatever in the water does not have fins or scales — that shall be an abomination to you.  13 ‘And these you shall regard as an abomination among the birds; they shall not be eaten, they are an abomination: the eagle, the vulture, the buzzard, 14 the kite, and the falcon after its kind; 15 every raven after its kind, 16 the ostrich, the short-eared owl, the sea gull, and the hawk after its kind; 17 the little owl, the fisher owl, and the screech owl; 18 the white owl, the jackdaw, and the carrion vulture; 19 the stork, the heron after its kind, the hoopoe, and the bat.  20 ‘All flying insects that creep on all fours shall be an abomination to you. 21 Yet these you may eat of every flying insect that creeps on all fours: those which have jointed legs above their feet with which to leap on the earth. 22 These you may eat: the locust after its kind, the destroying locust after its kind, the cricket after its kind, and the grasshopper after its kind. 23 But all other flying insects which have four feet shall be an abomination to you. (Leviticus 11:2-23)

Basically the Bible advocates eating real food (it does not consider unclean meats to be food) and not too much of it.

While overeating and obesity are major problems in the Anglo-lands and many other nations, the fact is that the overwhelming majority of Westerners do not consume the recommended minimum of two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables per day.  Not only does consuming them help appearance, this also helps reduce risk for cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes.  Something to think about.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

The New Testament Church and Unclean Meats Are foods considered to have been unclean in the Old Testament considered to be food in the New Testament? This article discusses this from the perspective of the New Testament. It also has a list of clean and unclean animals. It also answers the question, is pork healthy or is pork dangerous?
Obesity and Prophecy Does the Bible warn about the consequences of being obese? Is overeating dangerous?
What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally?
The Bible: Fact or Fiction? This is a booklet written by Douglas Winnail that answers if the Bible is just a collection of myths and legends or the inspired word of God.
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading.