Church of God News

 
Jewish Marriage Contract Called a Ketubah

COGwriter

The latest TW News & Prophecy from the Living Church of God has the following:

Perils of “living together” before marriage.

Today, it is popular to believe that living together before marriage increases the likelihood of success in a future marriage. In the USA, “the majority of young adults in their 20’s will live with a romantic partner at least once, and more than half of all marriages will be preceded by cohabitation.” However scientific research points to just the opposite! Studies show, “Couples who cohabit before marriage (and especially before an engagement or an otherwise clear commitment) tend to be less satisfied with their marriage–and more likely to divorce–than couples who do not. These negative outcomes are called the cohabitation effect.”

One reason for the failure of cohabitation is that the “standards” that individuals place on their cohabiting partner are usually far lower than for a future mate (New York Times, April 14, 2012).

In the light of modern research, the biblical commandment forbidding adultery (sex outside of marriage–Exodus 20:14) and the New Testament condemnation of fornication (sex before marriage–1 Corinthians 6:18) become much more significant. While popular opinion tends to view these biblical instructions as antiquated and confining, the God of the Bible said that following these instructions would bring blessings (see Deuteronomy 28:1-14). God knew that cohabitation before marriage would bring heartaches and problems, and that is why He inspired instructions against it.

For more information on this vital topic see our free booklet, God’s Plan for Happy Marriage.

The Bible clearly condemns forms of sexual immorality, of which ‘living together’ is a major form of that:

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

3 But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints  (Ephesians 5:3).

The fruits of sexual immorality are not good and do not lead to the development of the type of loving character that God expects all to work towards.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

God’s Plan for Happy Marriage This is an LCG booklet by Dr. R. Meredith.
God Created Marriage Some falsely claim that God did not create marriage and that fornication is fine.  What does the Bible really teach?
LCG: Homosexuals Gaining Ground “Same-sex marriage” for “gays” and lesbians is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality? Can homosexuals change?
What Did Jesus Teach About the Ten Commandments? This article quotes what Jesus actually said about them (His words are in red).
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’s Existence Logical? Some say it is not logical to believe in God. Is that true?
Is Evolution Probable or Impossible or Is God’s Existence Logical? Part II This short article clearly answers what ‘pseudo-scientists’ refuse to acknowledge.
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?

COGwriter

The nations of the European Union are facing various issues related to national sovereignty.  While they theoretically gave up national sovereignty when they approved the Lisbon Treaty a few years ago, they still have issues:

Draghi: euro countries to lose even more sovereignty

May 4, 2012 excerpts…European Central Bank (ECB) chief Mario Draghi has urged eurozone leaders to come up with a 10-year target for the common currency, saying they should accept more transfer of powers if they truly want a fiscal union.

Fitch ratings agency published a report outlining five possible scenarios for the future of the eurozone: a “Greek Exit;” a “Quasi-Fiscal Union;” the “Euro-mark” where Germany and a “core” exit leaving the remaining countries with the euro; the “United States of Europe;” and a “Full Break Up.”A full break-up and the demise of the euro is very unlikely, Fitch said in a press statement, given the huge financial and political costs.  http://euobserver.com/19/116128

National Sovereignty: NATO and the EU’s Fatal Weakness

defpro – ‎May 3, 202

Anti-EU sentiment in Europe is rising. Much and perhaps most of NATO and the EU’s current travails can be traced to the same basic flaw: national sovereignty. Both organizations have elaborate consultative and rule-making structures. NATO has a unified command structure. There is even a European parliament. Yet, the central fact that determines the way both organizations function — or in this case fail to do so — is that their members retain their sovereign rights as independent states.

Additional fiscal (cf. Revelation 13:16-17) and political union is prophesied for the end time Babylonian beast power (Revelation 17:12-13).

National sovereignty will be lost:

12 The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast. 13 These are of one mind, and they will give their power and authority to the beast.   (Revelation 17:12-14)

Yet, having problems related to national sovereignty is consistent with other aspects of Bible prophecy related to end time Europe (Daniel 2:41-43).

Europe has tended to have similarities to the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11 (see EU’s Fragile Tower of Babel) and sometimes has used it as a reference as the poster at the beginning of this article shows. The term Babylon seems to derive from Babel and the Bible indicates that the end time Babylon will be European (cf. Revelation 17).

According to Bible prophecy, a European power, despite its fragility (Daniel 2:41-43), is destined to temporarily be the most dominant force in the world (Revelation 13:4), ultimately conquer the Anglo-descended nations (it is the USA and its Anglo-allies like the UK that have the strongest fortresses of Daniel 11:39), and later come to its end (Daniel 11:45).  This power will be affiliated with the final “Babylon” (Revelation 17 & 18).

The fact that national sovereignty continues to be a subject of debate for Europe, indicates that many believe that it is being lost or will be lost.  Despite what will seem to be temporary setbacks, the Bible prophecies that national sovereignty in Europe clearly will be lost.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Using the Tower of Babel and “Beast” images suggests it is not concerned about its role as being part of the future Babylon of Bible prophecy.
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? What MUST happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Is the German Defense Minister one to watch? What do Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecies suggest?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British-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?
Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 Who is 666? This article explains how the COG has tended to views this, and compares this to an explanation from SDA founder Ellen White.

HVS.

COGwriter

In his sermon of April 21, 2012 (a transcript of which is now up and used here) CGPFK/CGPKG’s Ronald Weinland said the following:

We’re going to begin by reading the last portion of that which God speaks concerning
His two witnesses at the end-time and it’s found in Revelation 11…and this is about the work, this is
about what has been going on for nearly 3½ years, this is about what God is doing – but epitomized, or
typified, if you will, in two individuals lives.

Revelation 11:7 –And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast who ascends out of the
bottomless pit – interesting, we just talked about that in another sermon – God gave us a little more
understanding of these things and the timing of some of these things and what it means… the beast
who ascends out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill
them. And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great City, which is spiritually called Sodom
and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. And they of the people and kindred’s and tongues and
nations shall see their dead bodies three and one half days, and shall not allow their dead bodies to
be put in graves. And they who dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them and make merry and
shall send gifts to one another; because these two prophets tormented them who dwelt on the earth.
And after three and a half days the spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon
their feet; and great fear fell upon them who saw them.

This is where the sermon is going. The two witnesses will not be killed in the literal city of Jerusalem and their dead bodies will not lie in the streets for 3½ days. God’s two witnesses will live right up to Jesus Christ’s coming to this earth as King of kings. This three and a half days spoken of here about the two witnesses is fully about the past nearly three and one half years, what we have been living, of Christ’s final ministry of 3½ days and those things He is doing in the Body, the Church of God; and this is not good news to Satan.

Notice the following from the Bible about the 3 1/2 days and the bodies of the two witnesses:

8 And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. 9 Then those from the peoples, tribes, tongues, and nations will see their dead bodies three-and-a-half days, and not allow their dead bodies to be put into graves. 10 And those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them, make merry, and send gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth. 11 Now after the three-and-a-half days the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them. 12 And they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, “Come up here.” And they ascended to heaven in a cloud, and their enemies saw them. (Revelation 11:8-12)

If the 3 1/2 days are supposedly referring to the last 3 1/2 years, then why has the world not been celebrating this “death” that Ronald Weinland is now referring to?

That is easy to explain: His explanation is all false nonsense.

For those unfamiliar with him, Ronald Weinland was a minister in the old old Worldwide Church of God, then he was in the United Church of God for a while. Since then, he has been on his own.   He claims that he is one of the two witnesses and that his wife is the other one.  After first insisting that the Great Tribulation began on April 17, 2008, he later insisted that the Great Tribulation began on December 14, 2008 and that Jesus will return on May 27, 2012 (these are his last published dates). The Great Tribulation has most definitely not yet started (we seem to be in the time period that Jesus referred to as “the beginning of sorrows” Matthew 24:8), and Jesus most definitely will not be returning on May 27, 2012.  So, when he is wrong then (if not before), Ronald Weinland will either repent, spiritualize away the non-return of Jesus, and/or claim to have received a new “revelation” or “truth” that gives humanity more time or something to that effect.

In that same 4/21/12 sermon, Ronald Weinland also stated:

Of which things we can also speak, and not in the words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the
holy spirit teaches; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. This is what we’re doing today!…we compare spiritual things with spiritual. Because as God gives more – as an example, the 3½ days, the seven days prophecy in Daniel. Half of it was fulfilled by Christ by the time He died. We can see that, 3½ years of His ministry as He solidified, strengthened that truth, if you will, with many, the covenant with many during that ministry. And then we see the other 3½ days and we build upon it, we add to it… When we started going through Daniel and God gave understanding that the seventy-weeks was fully about something to do with a period of time not in the first coming of Christ, but Christ’s second coming. I had no idea where those verses were going!

Two comments about the above.  The first is that Ronald Weinland continues his pattern of trying to teach that more and more things are spiritual so his followers will keep following him, despite the lack of signs that Jesus said were necessary for the Great Tribulation to begin and for Jesus to return (Matthew 24:9-30).  When Jesus does not come three weeks from tomorrow, Ron Weinland will have to admit it and/or spiritualize it away.

The second comment is that Ronald Weinland, “I had no idea where those verses were going!” statement, while true, seems to greatly differ some some of what Ronald Weinland has claimed about himself in the past:

God will reveal who His two witnesses are regardless of whether people choose to believe them or not! God will increasingly give more proof of His spokesman as prophecies unfold exactly as they are recorded in this book…

The question about how God has revealed His truth to me is a fair one. The answer that I am who I say I am will be given by the events described in both books coming true exactly as I have described. (Weinland R. 2008: God’s Final Witness, pp. 89-90,111)

Notice also what Ronald Weinland wrote about the two witnesses dying:

It is now with boldness, confidence and great clarity that I give to you what God has given me. I am to announce, through God’s direct revelation, that I am one of those two witnesses. The other witness will be revealed to the world during the time of the great tribulation—within the final three and one-half years of man’s era. During that period of time, we will, together, completely fulfill all that God has given us to witness to this whole earth. Then, at the end, we will die in the streets of Jerusalem; and finally, exactly three and one-half days later, we will be resurrected (Revelation 11). The world will see this resurrection via television. At this same time Jesus Christ will appear in the heavens above the earth as He is returning to take the reigns of man’s government on earth. (Weinland R. 2008: God’s Final Witness, p. 16)

So this verse clearly shows that these two anointed ones of God have a specific time to do the primary thrust of their work. They know the exact day that Jesus Christ will return because they know their final work will last exactly 1,260 days. It is exactly at this point that they will be killed…

These two prophets of God will complete the work that God has given them to do, then they will be killed in the streets of Jerusalem. Their bodies will remain in the streets of Jerusalem for three and one-half days while the world watches via television. Then the unbelievable will happen. Many in the world, who still will not believe they are whom they say they are, will receive a very rude awakening. After all, if they remain dead beyond three and one-half days, then they cannot be of God.

After three and one-half days the Spirit of life from God entered into them [the two witnesses] and they stood upon their feet. Then great fear fell upon them which saw them. And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, “Come up here.” And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud and their enemies saw this happening to them. (Revelation 11:11-12)

These two prophets of God are resurrected from the dead, in the sight of all who are watching, and rise up into the heavens of the atmosphere of this earth. It is in this same time-frame that a massive resurrection of 144,000 also rise to meet Jesus Christ. The 144,000 will return with Christ on this same day after the seven last plagues are poured out upon the earth. It is at the beginning of this same day that the return of Jesus Christ becomes visible to the whole world. (Weinland R. 2008: God’s Final Witness, pp. 22-23)

It is completely clear to those of us who read and understand the English language that Ronald Weinland published that he was going to actually die in Jerusalem and that this death would be covered on television with the world watching–the world has not been watching him on television that last 3 1/2 years as he now is twisting the scriptures to mean. Furthermore, I recall hearing Ronald Weinland state in a sermon or radio interview in 2008 that he would die in Jerusalem–and he meant it literally then.  And yet, when I checked his travel schedule today, he did not list being in Jerusalem on the last Sabbath of this month (which is where he would need to be–perhaps he will decide to go there as part of his developing game plan as Jesus is not coming this month).

Now getting back to his 4/21/12 sermon, here are the last several words in it:

…those who have been a part of God’s true Church who are asleep, but a judgement that has come upon them and what they have been doing and their attitude basically toward God and toward God’s true Church for the past 3½ years.

So what is the above supposed to mean?  Basically, Ronald Weinland has denounced his critics and those in the COGs for not supporting him.  He has in the past pronounced curses on his critics and certain COG leaders which (originally were supposed to have started about 4 years ago) still have not come to pass.  Apparently Ronald Weinland is now trying to tell his followers that those outside their group are about to face a special round of God’s judgment in May 2012.  This is also nonsense on Ronald Weinland’s part and apparently is intended to keep his followers motivated.

I have denounced Ronald Weinland as a false prophet for over six years. And for every detail I have denounced, I have been right and he wrong. Cannot his followers see that he is not one of God’s two witnesses?

Will they learn what they should by the end of May or continue to allow Ronald Weinland and/or others like him to string them along?

A few articles of possible interest related to prophecy may include:

Concerns About Ronald Weinland’s Church of God-Preparing for the Kingdom of God Ronald Weinland falsely claims to be one of the two witnesses God is raising up, that the Great Tribulation began on December 14, 2008, and that Jesus will return on May 27, 2012. Why does the Bible show that Ron Weinland is a false prophet? Why do Ronald Weinland’s own statements prove that he is a false prophet? Additionally, he has other views which show he is not truly part of the Church of God.?
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?
Why Be Concerned About False and Heretical Leaders? There have been many false leaders–here is some of why you should be concerned about them.
Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 Who is 666? This article explains how the LCG views this, and compares this to Ellen White.
Harold Camping’s Teachings About the End of the World Do Not Agree with the Bible Harold Camping taught that the rapture will be on May 21, 2011 and the world would end on October 21, 2011. What does the Bible show?
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.
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 and Julia Gillard be involved in 2012?

COGwriter

Is a war between Israel and Iran is likely this year? Notice the following two news items:

5 May 2012

Bibi prepares to strike Iran?‎ Ynetnews

Bringing the Israeli elections forward to September 4th of this year not only won’t avert an Iran strike, but rather, in some ways may in fact advance the fight against Tehran’s nuclear program. Those who think that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is heading to these elections due to weakness are wrong. The PM has a stable coalition, yet its makeup won’t allow it to cope with the challenges it would have faced in the near future.

Netanyahu holding elections so he is free to deal with Iran in September-October

May 4, 2012

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is calling early elections so that he and his government will be free to deal with Iran’s nuclear program this September-October, one of Israel’s best-informed political commentators said on Friday night.

Here are some comments related to this in the latest update from ICG’s Mark Armstrong:

There is no way of knowing how many unexpected surprises 2012 may hold. Hardly a week passes without shocking revelations, and this week is no exception.

The first of three we can identify this week alone is the stunning announcement that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu will call for the Israeli Parliament to be dissolved over the weekend in a move to hold early elections September 4, 2012, one year ahead of schedule. One of the most respected political commentators informed his shocked Israeli television audience that the maneuver is designed to give Netanyahu the freedom to “deal with Iran’s nuclear program,” with his own re-election out of the way and at a time when “President Barack Obama will be paralyzed by the U.S. presidential campaign.”

This news comes right in the wake of another revelation this week, that Israel has called its military reserves to active duty in order to deal with escalating tensions on the Syrian and Egyptian borders. The overt support and sympathy the current American administration has extended to the Islamic Brotherhood of Egypt certainly clouds our traditional alliance with Israel when it comes to the possibility of a military skirmish on the already tense border.

The top leadership of LCG has earlier (c. March 2012) indicated to me the belief that Israel would likely strike Iran by November of 2012.  Also notice something in the May-June 2012 TW magazine by LCG’s Dr. Meredith:

If Israel attacks Iran in the next few months…it may indeed cause a “firestorm” throughout the Middle East. This would certainly speed up the process of the European nations drawing together into the final revival of the Holy Roman Empire. It would speed up the unification of the Arab nations into what is called the “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40). And it would also speed up the very end of this present society. (Meredith R.C. Jesus Christ is Coming to Rule.  Tomorrow’s World, May-June 2012, p. 6)

Since Iran is not the prophesied King of the South (Daniel 11:40) something must change to reduce its Islamic militaristic influence (and it has strong influence in Syria, Lebanon, and even Iraq, amongst other places).  If we are near the time that Damascus is prophesied to be destroyed and for a time ceasing being a city (Isaiah 17:1), major problems may soon be upon that area (more than the current uprisings in Syria have been so far).  At this time, it would seem that the destruction of Damascus could happen if opponents to the Syrian Assad regime felt that they had been harmed so much that eliminating Damascus would be necessary. Since Israel and the USA tend to be sensitive to international opinion, such prophesied destruction of Damascus suggests that somehow Syria will first try to inflict significant harm to one or more of its enemies, like Israel.  If this is involving outsiders like Israel, it seems that the Bible suggests major complications could occur if Israel does attack Iran and/or Syria and that Iran and Syria strike back.

Such devastation, like is prophesied to happen to Damascus, would likely enrage the rest of the Islamic world, and probably parts of Europe.  And while the Muslim Brotherhood is currently rising up in North Africa and the Middle East, Saudi Arabia and the Gulf nations currently seem to be able to distance themselves from it (so, to a degree, has Jordan).  Something, however, will bring the nations that will be confederate with the prophesied King of the South together.

And a devastating regional war that affects Syria and/or Iran may be a major factor in getting them all to agree to unite closer to destroy Israel:

They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, That the name of Israel may be remembered no more.” For they have consulted together with one consent; They form a confederacy against You: The tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites; Moab and the Hagrites; Gebal, Ammon, and Amalek; Philistia with the inhabitants of Tyre; Assyria also has joined with them; They have helped the children of Lot. (Psalm 83:4-8).

The above are nations currently in the Middle East and North Africa (Assyria is in a different category, and there would likely be additional factors for Europe to be involved).

It also may take such a regional war for the likely peace deal of Daniel 9:27 to be implemented.

The fact that the prospect of a regional war involving Israel and Iran and/or Syria etc. has been in the news so much in 2012 suggests that many feel that one will happen relatively soon.

We seem to be on the edge of the fulfillment of additional steps of biblical prophecy.

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? Is the deal in Daniel 9:27 a peace deal?
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.
2012 – Ten Fulfilled Barack Obama Prophecies Barack Obama has already helped fulfill 10 predictions in 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect. Here is a YouTube video on ten.
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.
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?

The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

COGwriter

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

The rise of atheism.

In the United States,atheism is growing faster than any religious group. Nearly 20% of Americans now avoid “organized religion in favor of a non-defined skepticism about faith.” Many are leaving organized religion as American society becomes more secular. These church dropouts are turned off by the increasingly political nature of organized religion and by “Old Testament condemnations of homosexuals, premarital sex, contraception and abortion. The Catholic Church’s sex scandals also prompted millions to equate religion with moralistic hypocrisy.”…Noted historians Will and Ariel Durant have observed, “There is no significant example in history of a society successfully maintaining moral life without the aid of religion” (Lessons of History, p. 51).

God’s existence is logical.  The idea that the physical universe eternally existed on its own is discounted by various scientists, including as I reported about earlier, certain mathematicians (Mathematicians: Universe Had a Beginning).

The Bible teaches the following about unbelievers like atheists:

1 The fool has said in his heart,
“There is no God.”
They are corrupt, and have done abominable iniquity;
There is none who does good.  (Psalms 53:1)

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools (Romans 1:18-22).

The following passage, written nearly two thousand years ago, essentially predicts resurgences of amorality as a result of the rejection of God and His ways:

24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. (Romans 1:24-32)

Atheists and other anti-biblical types seem unable to tie the national legalization of abortions in the U.S.A. in 1973, the increased legalizations of homosexual marriages (e.g. NY Approves ‘Homosexual Marriage’ Law, but Does Not See the Handwriting on the Wall), and the Obama Administration’s decision to want to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (see Obama Announces He Wants to Repeal Defense of Marriage Act and Increase Debt), and other moral outrages with the economic problems that the USA is facing.  But all of those, as well as the promotion of pornography, lewdness, violence in the U.S.A. (including certain sports), as well as other sins, are factors behind what is happening.

Atheists basically reject all of that, but according to the Bible, they are fools.  Those in Sodom and Gomorrah probably did not think that any Divine Being could destroy their cities, but they were wrong (Genesis 19:24-28).  Destruction is going to come to the Anglo-lands.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

LCG: Homosexuals Gaining Ground “Same-sex marriage” for “gays” and lesbians is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality? Can homosexuals change?
What Did Jesus Teach About the Ten Commandments? This article quotes what Jesus actually said about them (His words are in red).
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.
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? This article has eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. It includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article at the COGwriter website on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled since he is to be the USA president?
Several More Reasons American’s Question Obama’s Religion Is Barack Obama a Christian? He claims to be. Others question that.
Many Americans Believe that Barack Obama is Muslim Is Barack Obama Muslim? Many feel that he is?
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?
Is God’s Existence Logical? Some say it is not logical to believe in God. Is that true?
Is Evolution Probable or Impossible or Is God’s Existence Logical? Part II This short article clearly answers what ‘pseudo-scientists’ refuse to acknowledge.
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?

UK’s David Cameron

COGwriter

Two readers sent me the following:

EU PLOT TO SCRAP BRITAIN

SENIOR Eurocrats are secretly plotting to create a super-powerful EU president to realise their dream of abolishing ­Britain and other nation states, the Daily Express can reveal.

Daily Express, UK – May 4, 2012

A covert group of EU foreign ministers has drawn up plans for merging the jobs currently done by Herman Van Rompuy, president of the European Council, and Jose Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission.

The new bureaucrat, who would not be directly elected by voters, is set to get sweeping control over the entire EU and force member countries into ever-greater political and economic union. Tellingly, the UK has been excluded from the confidential discussions within the shady “Berlin Group” of Europhile politicians, spearheaded by German foreign minister Guido Westerwelle.

Opponents fear the plan could create a modern-day equivalent of the European emperor envisaged by Napoleon Bonaparte or a return to the Holy Roman Empire of Charlemagne that dominated Europe in the Dark Ages. They are concerned that David Cameron’s coalition Government is doing nothing to prevent the sinister plot.http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/318045/EU-plot-to-scrap-Britain

EU’s Herman Van Rompuy

Both COGwriter and the Living Church of God have previously reported about the proposal for the EU to have a super-leader (see EU Ministers Beginning to Advocate for a ‘King of the North’ Leader and Living Church of God World Ahead Weekly Update 4/26/12).  As far as it being totally secret and avoiding the UK, however, the previous LCG report did state that the EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, who is from the UK, was involved.

It should be noted that not all believe that there is such a plot:

This UK Tabloid Story About The Secret EU Plot To ‘Scrap Britain’ Is Hilarious

Business Insider…the anti-EU United Kingdom Independent Party, the resident eurosceptic tabloid, the Daily Express, has a shocking story about how the EU plans to “scrap Britain”.

The horror!…So what’s happening? Well, it turns out that the Express has heard some reports that the EU is planning on merging the roles of Herman Van Rompuy, president of the European Council, and Jose Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission — a big and important change.http://www.businessinsider.com/daily-express-scrap-britain-2012-5#ixzz1tuQlYXLe

Yet despite skeptics who believe that the idea of a European plot to exclude the UK is hilarious, there continue to be 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).

The Bible tells of an end time, highly Germanic power, that will takeover nations (Isaiah 10:5-11).  Interestingly, some in the EU and some in the UK are calling for the nation of Germany to increase its military influence and might:

EU defence role for Germany backed

Press Association – May 3, 2012

Germany should set aside its reluctance to engage in military operations and take a more active role in European defence, a parliamentary committee has said…”Germany is Europe’s economic powerhouse. But in the military area, it does not fulfil its potential despite a large defence budget in absolute terms,” the committee said.  http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5hmO27iGysTcj-5ZQvy76gcPkcA2g?docId=N0074361336049757843A

British Lords Call on Germany to Step Up EU Defense Role

Bloomberg – May 3, 2012

Britain’s upper chamber of parliament called on Germany to “pull its weight” in defending the European Union as the U.K. cuts military spending.   “Germany, Europe’s biggest economy and key player in every other area of EU activity, must play a bigger role,” Liberal Democrat peer Lord Robin Teverson said in a statement by the cross-party European Union Committee of the House of Lords published today in London…The U.K. is reducing its defense budget by 8 percent over four years to tackle a 38 billion-pound ($61.5 billion) shortfall.   http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-05-03/british-lords-call-on-germany-to-step-up-eu-defense-role.html

So, the UK plans to weaken itself while some in it and the EU want Germany to increase its military.  Was WWII that long ago that those in the UK forget what happened?  Many in the UK will participate in that nation’s downfall while supporting Europe’s rise.  So, not all that is happening is secret.

Now those of us currently in the Living Church of God have warned for decades that the Europeans would end up with a powerful strongman type of leader and basically resurrect the old “Holy Roman Empire” with German domination.  The fact that others are also starting to see this more clearly is of interest and ultimately the UK will not be part of the European Beast power as it is–the UK will be taken over by the final European Beast power.

But most likely prior to the UK’s takeover, a one or more new European “treaties” will be needed.  The Bible itself shows that there will be a reorganization in Europe.  The Bible teaches, 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 economic, political, and cultural factors would lead to that development.  And steps for this European power to rise up are being taken.

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.

Pope Benedictus XVI

COGwriter

Catholic News Service has a report related to ecumenism:

Church should not accept members who deny Vatican II, official says

CNS – May 5, 2012

The Second Vatican Council’s teaching, particularly on Judaism and other religions, is rooted in traditional Christian theology and the Bible, and the Catholic Church should not offer concessions to those who do not accept its teaching, said an Israeli-born Franciscan who serves as a judge on a top Vatican court.

Msgr. David Jaeger, a judge at the Roman Rota, defined as worrying a tendency, “here and there in Catholicism, to look leniently upon stray groups that are marginal but well-publicized who denounce the doctrine of the council, including the declaration ‘Nostra Aetate'” on the relationship of the church to non-Christian religions.

Msgr. Jaeger, who grew up in a Jewish family, spoke about “Nostra Aetate” during a conference on the Second Vatican Council at Rome’s Opus Dei-run Holy Cross University May 3-4.

Here are some ecumenical Vatican statements related to religions that do not profess Christ that Catholics are supposed to accept according to David Jaeger that came from Pope Paul VI:

Religions, however, that are bound up with an advanced culture have struggled to answer the same questions by means of more refined concepts and a more developed language. Thus in Hinduism, men contemplate the divine mystery and express it through an inexhaustible abundance of myths and through searching philosophical inquiry. They seek freedom from the anguish of our human condition either through ascetical practices or profound meditation or a flight to God with love and trust…

Hinduism, Buddhism: “The Catholic Church rejects nothing that is true and holy in these religions. She regards with sincere reverence those ways of conduct and of life, those precepts and teachings which, though differing in many aspects from the ones she holds and sets forth, nonetheless often reflect a ray of that Truth which enlightens all men.”

“The Church regards with esteem also the Moslems.” “The Church reproves, as foreign to the mind of Christ, any discrimination against men or harassment of them because of their race, color, condition of life, or religion.”
(DECLARATION ON THE RELATION OF THE CHURCH TO NON-CHRISTIAN RELIGIONS NOSTRA AETATE PROCLAIMED BY POPE PAUL VI ON OCTOBER 28, 1965 http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_decl_19651028_nostra-aetate_en.html)

While many want ecumenical unity, I would suggest that Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and also Protestants should open up their Bibles and see the warnings about a coming ecumenical religion (cf. Revelation 13:4-8).

Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecy all have warnings about where this will lead. And although some of the Catholic and Byzantine ones have a positive view towards this ecumenism, others are negative, and the Bible clearly is negative.

The Bible supports the idea that Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists, for a short time at least, will support the coming ecumenical religion (Revelation 13:3-8)–and now Catholics are being reminded that they will need to accept it as well, though currently in a more indirect way.

The Bible is not particularly ecumenical. Notice what it records that the Apostle Peter taught:

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders of Israel: 9 If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well, 10 let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole. 11 This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’  12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”  (Acts 4:8-12)

The Apostle Peter, who the pope claim to have descended from, was not ecumenical.

Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism do not even pretend that salvation comes through Christ and hence are not faiths that the Bible endorses to the degree that the Church of Rome has for decades.

Vatican II  was a major Catholic ecumenical council that ran from 1962–1965.  Since then, many Catholics have been justifiably concerned that doctrinal compromise for the sake of ecumenical unity with those outside of fellowship of Rome was inevitable.

The ecumenical movement continues to go forward, it is not biblical, and this is not about to bring real Christian unity to the earth.

Those interested in learning more about ecumenical issues as well as early Christianity of the original eastern churches as well as changes that many have adopted may wish to carefully study the following articles:

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 Will unification make the Orthodox better? What about end time Babylon? What are the issues? Why should such unity be rejected?
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?
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?
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?
Some Similarities and Differences Between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Living Church of God Both groups claim to be the original church, but both groups have differing ways to claim it. Both groups have some amazing similarities and some major differences. Do you know what they are?
The Churches of Revelation 2 & 3 from 31 A.D. to present: information on all of the seven churches of Revelation 2 & 3.

“Orthodox” 16th Century Representation of the “Apocalypse”

COGwriter

James Malm, an “independent” who has a speculative and often partially inaccurate blog, posted the following today:

Our correction is now at the very door, and we go on playing our corporate games and idolizing our traditions over God’s law, not understanding the signs of the times.

The Sep 4 Israeli elections are destined to produce a peace making coalition free of the far right  extremism that has prevented peace talks until now.  At the same time the conditions in the region are being reset, allowing for a genuine peace deal and a declaration that peace and safety have been achieved.

There is a high probability that the final false prophet will be set up in Rome around Sep 16 and go to the Holy Place around 75 days later, triggering the tribulation of God’s correction upon his people, Mat 24:15-21.

Brethren, WE are God’s people and his correction will begin with US!  God will smash our corporate idols and force us to stand alone upon his word in great suffering and against great persecution; or lose our crowns!

His corporate idol nonsense is a red herring–but he seems to attract people who like him speaking like that.  But more importantly, for the moment at least, is that based upon the scriptures and the “signs of the times,” there is a 100% certainty that the Great Tribulation will not begin in 2012 and that James Malm is wrong.

Why?

Enough of the scriptural signs are simply not there yet.  While I have tried to explain this to him in the past, James Malm overlooks much of what the Bible actually teaches to try to fit what seem to be Malm-predetermined time periods that he has changed in the past for when he believes that the Great Tribulation will start.

As far as some specific signs, for one the Europeans are not ready for their King of the North role yet and it is not possible that they will be any time next year either. Matthew 24:14 has still not been fulfilled completely (related to gospel proclamation) and the end cannot come until it has been. We have also not seen the type of wars, famines, and pestilences that Jesus described in Matthew 24:4-8 yet. Nor have we seen a deal related to the one in Daniel 9:27.

As far as James Malm’s prophetic track record, I have denounced several of his false predictions in the past, and so far I have been correct every time I have denounced him for claiming some date (for details, please see Error-Ridden James Malm Not Doing an Elijah Work). And at the end of this year I will be proven correct as the Great Tribulation will not begin in 2012.

In a 7/28/11 post titled Present Trends and Dating The Tribulation, James Malm wrote:

There is a very high likelihood that the tribulation will begin late next year; with the abomination being set up on or near September 16th 2012 with the tribulation beginning on 30 Nov ~ 1 Dec time frame.

His speculation is still going to be proven wrong not too many months from now. There is NO LIKELIHOOD THAT THE GREAT TRIBULATION WILL START IN 2012. Nor will the abomination be set up in September of 2012.

As I have written before, James Malm has also adopted certain positions discounting the future fulfillment of Daniel 11 that I believe will confuse and mislead his followers (for details, see Daniel 11: James Malm vs. Bob Thiel).

His followers really should search the scriptures, because if they truly understand them, they will realize that James Malm misunderstands much about Daniel 11, Matthew 24, and other aspects of end time prophecy. It is not that he cannot get anything right (even the proven false prophet Ronald Weinland can, though his remaining followers will again be disappointed in a few weeks when Jesus does not return like Ron Weinland has been predicting), but overall James Malm simply misunderstands Bible prophecy and those that believe him will be disappointed if they really believe that the Great Tribulation will happen in 2012.

People need to search the scriptures (cf. Acts 17:11), for if they do, they will realize that there is no possibility that the Great Tribulation can begin in 2012.

Some articles of related interest, which contain many scriptures to search to verify what I am saying, include the following:

Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Error-Ridden James Malm Not Doing an Elijah Work James Malm is an ‘independent’ who misunderstands and often improperly maligns.
Should the Church Still Try to Place its Top Priority on Proclaiming the Gospel or Did Herbert W. Armstrong Change that Priority for the Work? Some say the Church should mainly feed the flock now as that is what Herbert W. Armstrong reportedly said. Is that what he said? Is that what the Bible says? What did Paul and Herbert W. Armstrong expect from evangelists?
There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory.
Why Be Concerned About False and Heretical Leaders? There have been many false leaders–here is some of why you should be concerned about them.
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2018 or 2019?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012, 2013, or 2014? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
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?

Vladimir Putin, Official Photograph

COGwriter

A Russian general essentially threatened Europe, via NATO, earlier today:

Russia says it could pre-emptively strike missile shield

Reuters – 3 May 2012

By Adrian Croft and Steve Gutterman | LONDON/MOSCOW (Reuters) – Russia’s military chief of staff said on Thursday that Moscow could carry out pre-emptive strikes on future NATO missile defense installations in Europe to protect its security – a stark warning against a system the Kremlin sees as a threat.

General Nikolai Makarov’s remark underlined Russian opposition to an anti-missile shield the United States and NATO are developing, an issue that will continue to strain relations after Vladimir Putin starts a six-year presidential term on Monday.

Russia’s Putin has raised concerns about being able to penetrate nuclear “shields” in the past, so I do not believe that the General’s comments are at odds with how he feels.

The problem is that more Russia makes such statements, the more the Europeans are going to realize that they need to develop their own military abilities apart from the USA.

And while it is Europe, and not Russia, that will be the end time King of the North, ultimately Europe, despite becoming a military power for a while (cf. Daniel 11:39-43, Revelation 13:4) will be hit hard by Russia and its allies later (Daniel 11:44).

In other parts of the Old Testament, it is shown that a northern people (apparently Russia or Russian led) will be part of the force that concerns and then eventually invades, end time Babylon–which will be a European power:

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

43 “The king of Babylon has heard the report about them,
And his hands grow feeble;
Anguish has taken hold of him,
Pangs as of a woman in childbirth…”(Jeremiah 50:41-43).

Thus, the European empire (the “daughter of Babylon”) is to be destroyed by a northern (apparently Russian led) force. And probably one that cooperates with nations in the East (like China, etc.), as well as maybe Iran, and possibly the Ukraine.

While Europe will be led by the King of the North, notice that the Bible clearly states there is a group from the far north:

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

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

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

A Russian confederation is that only place on the planet that is in the far north and currently has massive military power–and while some believe parts of its military are antiquated, the upgrading that Vladimir Putin is pushing for should have it sufficiently strong to fulfill its end time role. A northern confederation (that appears to be led by Russia and probably includes the far north and far east/Pacific coast portion of Asia) will destroy the European Babylon. The following passage may also apply:

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

So, although many worry that Russia will be a major military threat to the USA, the reality is that the Bible indicates that it will be the Europeans that will receive a massive attack involving Russia. And perhaps not too many years from now.

But the threats from Russia now, the rise of China, and the relative (and then absolute) decline of US power, likely all will be factors in getting Europe to rise up to become the military power that the world, for a while, will marvel at (Revelation 13:4).  The Russian leaders probably have no idea what they are helping create by their public and other threats.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Is the German Defense Minister one to watch? What do Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecies suggest?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?

Greek Riots, 2008

COGwriter

A radical political party in Greece is increasing in influence:

3 May 2012…

The Anti-Austerity, Anti-Immigrant Party

The mainstream parties are paying the highest price for the country’s economic decline. One of the most active new parties is the ultra-right-wing Golden Dawn…

After almost negligible support in elections three years ago, polls suggest Golden Dawn could win as much as 5 percent. Its message is simple: Dump austerity measures and kick immigrants — all of them are considered illegal — out of Greece.

“We are a Christian nation and we are Europeans. We don’t need Asians, Muslim fanatics in our country, simple as that,” says Ilias Panagiotaros, Golden Dawn spokesman, as he explains party policy: “Seal our borders with mines, full protection from army in the borders, high penalties and fines for Greeks who rent houses to illegal immigrants, high penalties and fines for Greeks who have illegal immigrants in their jobs.”  http://www.npr.org/2012/05/03/151915923/angry-voters-could-change-makeup-of-greeces-parliament

Greece: Civil war, but not as you know it

As the economic situation in Greece worsens, so too does its political climate.  http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2012/05/20125291733265576.html

Many in Greece are not happy about how their national economy has been handled and are turning more and more against immigration.  And invoking religion as well.

I have long warned at this news page that a change in religious tone would happen in Europe.

Furthermore, in my book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect, I discuss the likelihood of civil unrest and/or civil war breaking out in Europe. Here are some captions from the book about that:

The Bible is clear that the final “Beast power” (which will be primarily European) will have such unique military capabilities that the entire world will marvel (cf. Revelation 13:3–4)…

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Bible is clear that the final “Beast power” (which will be primarily European) will have such unique military capabilities that the entire world will marvel (cf. Revelation 13:3–4)…

Here is more of what the Bible teaches about the first beast:

⁴…they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?” ⁷…It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation (Revelation 13:4, 7)…

Civil unrest in Europe results in a military leader rising up, with various signs, who will appear to support an old and new religion… Daniel 11:27 Revelation 13:1–2 cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:9–10…

It may partially because of civil war/unrest/riots that a reorganization of Europe, as well as a “de-Islamization of Europe” will take place.

The Bible teaches that Europe will reorganize (Revelation 17:12-13) and support a particular religion (Revelation 13).

We are hearing rumblings in Greece, France, and other places in Europe that show that many there are starting to get into the mindset that the Bible warns against that will rise up there.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe?
Catholic Prophecies: Do They Mirror, Highlight, or Contradict Biblical Prophecies? People of all faiths may be surprised to see what various Roman and Orthodox Catholic prophets have been predicting as many of their predictions will be looked to in the 21st century.
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 22 predictions in the book and many more will to come to pass. Those who purchase the book at the www.thesecretsect.com website receive a lengthy bonus report documenting world events that aligned with the book.
2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect (English Kindle edition). This is the 2nd edition of the book, released in January 2012, and includes a summary of many of the predictions that world events have aligned with since the book originally came out in September 2009.
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 und das Auftreten der geheimen Sekte (German Kindle Edition)
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 22 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 22 já começaram a acontecer.