Church of God News

COGwriter

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

A New Financial Option for the World?

Some politicians claim the U.S. economy is rising from the ashes even while Europe’s financial situation melts down. However, numerous analysts believe more turmoil remains for the United States. In Europe, Britain gives wise financial advice, but continues to “borrow” endlessly without fixing its own financial problems. According to one financial analyst, “The entire [British] tax system needs to be replaced with something coherent.” In fact, he notes that “…the optimal size of government is closer to a third” (The Telegraph, May 17, 2012). Some cry for smaller government and others cry for lower taxes. Many voices suggest that “federalizing” Europe will cure its financial woes.

God long ago laid out a plan for the financial success of nations, based on a clear set of laws. God’s financial system (known as tithing) calls for giving 10% of one’s increase to support His form of government. This system includes clear accountability and teaches character and fiscal responsibility. While the details of the tithing system appear after the giving of the Law at Sinai (see Leviticus 27:30-32; Numbers 18:26; Deuteronomy 12, 14), tithing was first recorded about 500 years earlier, in the days of Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 14:18-20; 28:22). Jesus indicated that this system was still in effect during His ministry (Matthew 23:23). When Jesus Christ, who “is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8), returns to this earth, He will reinstitute the biblical tithing system on a global scale! Finally, there will be a fair and functional financial system for all mankind!

For more information, see our free booklet God’s People Tithe!

The Bible is clear that the world’s financial system will ultimately collapse (Revelation 18), Jesus will takeover (Revelation 19), and a millennial age will begin (Revelation 20).

Those who try to “live by every word of God” normally tithe now and are not waiting until the Kingdom of God comes to the earth to do so.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Tithing Questions and Some Answers Addresses some non-biblical arguments against tithing. Should people tithe?
Is Third Tithe Still Valid Today? Some in the COGs no longer teach payment of third tithe, is this biblically correct?
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?
Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism? Was the millennium (sometimes called chiliasm) taught by early Christians? Who condemned it? Will Jesus literally reign for 1000 years on the earth? Is this time near?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? 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?
The Plain Truth About Gold in Prophecy. How Should a Christian View Gold? What do economists and the Bible teach about gold? Gold and silver may drop in value. Inflation/deflation? What do Christians need to know about gold?

Japanese Demon Portrayal

COGwriter

The rash of human-eating and other gross crimes has gotten some to wonder about zombies:

After gory incidents, online ‘zombie’ talk grows

Published June 03, 2012     Associated Press

TAMPA, Fla. –  First came Miami: the case of a naked man eating most of another man’s face. Then Texas: a
mother accused of killing her newborn, eating part of his brain and biting off three of his toes. Then Maryland, a college student telling police he killed a man, then ate his heart and part of his brain.

It was different in New Jersey, where a man stabbed himself 50 times and threw bits of his own intestines at police. They pepper-sprayed him, but he was not easily subdued.

He was, people started saying, acting like a zombie. And the whole discussion just kept growing, becoming a topic that the Internet couldn’t seem to stop talking about…The cases themselves are anything but funny. Each involved real people either suspected of committing unspeakable acts or having those acts visited upon them for reasons that have yet to be figured out.http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/06/03/after-gory-incidents-online-zombie-talk-grows/#ixzz1wkWKbYcd

Police Seek Witnesses In Causeway Cannibal Attack

Why? Why did the man attack the other? Why were they naked? Why did the attacker turn into a cannibal on the causeway?

Some believe he was under the influence of heavy drugs.  The head of the Miami Fraternal Order of Police, Armando Aguilar, said cases related to the type of drugs known as “bath salts” are not new locally.

“We have seen, already, three or four cases that are exactly like this…In the cases Aguilar mentioned, he said the people have all taken their clothing off, been extremely violent with what seemed to be super-human strength, even using their jaws as weapons.  http://miami.cbslocal.com/2012/05/29/police-seek-witnesses-in-causeway-cannibal-attack/

It is not zombies, the so-called “living dead,” that are causing this.

This appears to be the result of people, who may possibly also be being influenced by demons.  And if some of them have “super-human strength,” while certain drugs seem to be able to induce this, scripture shows that so can demonic possession:

2 And when He had come out of the boat, immediately there met Him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, 3 who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no one could bind him, not even with chains, 4 because he had often been bound with shackles and chains. And the chains had been pulled apart by him, and the shackles broken in pieces; neither could anyone tame him. 5 And always, night and day, he was in the mountains and in the tombs, crying out and cutting himself with stones.  (Mark 5:2-5)

Problems were prophesied in the last days:

1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons (1 Timothy 4:1)

1 But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!  (2 Timothy 3:1-5)

People, whether possesed by demons or not, there were those prophesied to be despisers of good in the last days.  Eating peoples’ faces certainly shows loving oneself and despising others.  Notice also:

19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.   (Galatians 5:19-21)

2 you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.  (Ephesians 2:2-3)

Satan is “the prince of the power of the air” and influences people to be “children of wrath.”

The precise reason why people have done the horrible acts are not always certain.  But it is certain that those that do, do not understand love or the meaning of life.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Close Encounters of a ‘Spirit’ Kind discusses some experiences I believe were (demon) ‘spirit’  related.
Mardi Gras: The Devil’s Carnival?   Do you know that in Bolivia the carnival/Mardi Gras time is part of a celebration known as the Devil’s Carnival?    Did Jesus celebrate Carnaval? Where did it come from?
Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians? This article provides some historical and biblical insight on this question.
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?
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 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?

Kurt Koch

COGwriter

This morning I came across the following:

ADL Praises Cardinal Koch’s Address Calling Anti-Semitism ‘A Betrayal Of The Christian Faith’

New York, NY, May 31, 2012 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today applauded Cardinal Kurt Koch, President of the Vatican’s Commission for Religious Relations with the Jews, on his recent address calling anti-Semitism “a betrayal of the Christian Faith.”

In his May 16 speech at Rome’s Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, Cardinal Koch, the Vatican’s chief liaison to the Jewish people, strongly affirmed that the Church’s teachings positive teachings about Jews since the 1965 Second Vatican Council are binding on all Catholics. He also warned that Jews and Catholics must remain ever vigilant to maintain the positive relationship launched in 1965, as the dialogue “is constantly put to the test.”  http://www.adl.org/PresRele/VaticanJewish_96/6323_96.htm

Why is this of importance?

Catholics (as well as certain Protestants) believe that Jews will convert to their final ecumenical religion in the end time.  As President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Cardinal Koch’s objective is to get Protestants, Eastern Orthodox, and eventually Jews and others to unite behind the Church of Rome.

I have reported about Kurt Koch since he replaced Cardinal Walter Kasper as President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity back in 2010 (e.g. Swiss Bishop Appointed as Ecumenical Head: Antichrist Role?).  He has risen in rank and stature since (see Kurt Koch Made a Cardinal: Might He Become the Antichrist?, Kurt Koch Spoke on Vatican II: More Compromise Coming?, and Pope Sends Unity Message to Eastern Orthodox, and Earlier Called Cardinal Koch Venerable). I believe that if he lives long enough, Cardinal Koch will either become the final Antichrist, support the final Antichrist, or be decide that he will have to oppose him.

To take this a step further, yes, this means that I believe that someone who calls himself “Catholic” and somehow may become pope will be the final Antichrist (Some Doctrines of Antichrist). And I also will add that it is NOT “Catholic bashing” to consider that the final Antichrist will call himself “Catholic” as this is the position of certain Catholic mystics and currently living Catholic priests. I also retain my belief that most non-Anglo-nation-based Protestants will support this (as well as a significant number in the Anglo lands).

Now, as I do not personally know Kurt Koch, I am not saying that he is necessarily anything other than a loyal Catholic bishop and cardinal. And trying to reduce hatred between his church and Jews is not of itself wrong.  And it is appropriate for the ADL to acknowledge proclaimed shifts against anti-Semitic bigotry.

But an ecumenical unity for the world is coming (cf. Revelation 13:3-4) and it will not be faithful to the early and true apostolic traditions or sacred scripture.

Ecumenical unity will be a disaster for the world (cf. Revelation 13, 17, & 18).   American Catholics will find such unity with the Eastern Orthodox especially disturbing if they understood the plan of the Orthodox in this area.

More details can be found in the following:

Why Should American Catholics Should Fear Unity with the Orthodox? Are the current ecumenical meetings a good thing or will they result in disaster?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
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.
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?
Which Is Faithful: The Roman Catholic Church or the Living Church of God? Do you know that both groups shared a lot of the earliest teachings? Do you know which church changed? Do you know which group is most faithful to the teachings of the apostolic church? Which group best represents true Christianity? This documented article answers those questions. Português: Qual é fiel: A igreja católica romana ou a igreja viva do deus? Tambien Español: Cuál es fiel: ¿La iglesia católica romana o La Iglesia del Dios Viviente? Auch: Deutsch: Welches zuverlässig ist: Die Römisch-katholische Kirche oder die lebende Kirche von Gott?
The History of Early Christianity Are you aware that what most people believe is not what truly happened to the true Christian church? Do you know where the early church was based? Do you know what were the doctrines of the early church? Is your faith really based upon the truth or compromise?The Churches of Revelation 2 & 3 Do they matter? Most say they must, but act like they do not. This article contains some history about the Church of God (sometimes referred to as the continuation of Primitive Christianity) over the past 2000 years. It also discusses the concept of church eras.
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?

VS.

COGwriter

A few hours ago, CGPFK/CGPKG’s Ronald Weinland once again contradicted himself by giving another sermon.  Notice that on 5/23/12 at his ronaldweinland.com website, Ron Weinland posted the following:

At this point, our job is done. Our work has come to an end as God’s witnesses. This is the final posting for this site and it is the final admonition to God’s scattered people. The Church is about to be reunited—just not in a manner that anyone scattered can conceive. The end-time is nearly over and the long awaited millennial reign of Jesus Christ is now nearly here.

Final Sermon
As a final posting I am also informing all readers that a final prerecorded sermon will be posted on the Church site that can be used this Sabbath.

But he broke at least two promises related to that within days.

First, despite stating the 5/23/12 post would be “the final posting for this site and it is the final admonition to God’s scattered people,” he made another post at the site on 5/26/12 and on 5/30/12 (and that is enough to show he failed to keep his promise). And yes, he had various admonitions that he wanted to direct to “God’s scattered people,” as he used the term “scattered” five times in his 5/30/12 post referring to them.

Second, despite claiming that his sermon for 5/26/12 was the “Final Sermon,” he produced apparently three others since (he claimed he would do 2 for 5/27/12)–with the latest being 6/2/12.  His words are unreliable.

Notice that the Bible teaches:

21 “And if you say in your heart, ‘How shall we know the word which the LORD has not spoken?’– 22 when a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the thing does not happen or come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him (Deuteronomy 18:21-22).

1 But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. 2 And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. 3 By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber. (2 Peter 2:1-3).

How many times does Ronald Weinland have to be wrong for his followers to open their eyes and believe the Bible over him?

And in addition to the 5/23/12 post.  He claimed he would stop preaching by now.  Notice what he claimed:

Those who are listening to him now need to realize that this is the same Ron Weinland who previously declared all of the following:

If we come to the point in time where what I’ve said doesn’t come to pass, the reality is that I’m just a false prophet. That’s the bottom line…The reality is if it doesn’t happen, then you’re just false…I’ll acknowledge my error, my wrong, if I’m wrong (The Edge Radio, December 15, 2007)

You know, one of the things as well, what if Ron Weinland, what he says doesn’t come to pass in April, what if these things don’t happen in 2008. I think about, you know, what have I said in interviews? There’s really a simple answer. False prophet. You know, I get tons of email, I get email every day from people saying, “Well I guess in 2009,” a lot of sarcasm comes out, “I guess you’re gonna be saying this or saying that or trying to explain to people”, No, I’m done. (Sermon, Stay the Course, Part 1, December 2007)

If by Pentecost I’m just going to make this real clear to everyone. If by Pentecost it is not powerfully and abundantly clear that there has been a great deal of destruction that will clearly encompass a third of all plant life in the US and at least the clear results of this mingled with blood the death of very much animal life and the beginning of large numbers of human life then I will stop preaching. Just so all the critics and everyone out there will understand. I am true to my word in these things. OK? And for all the critics if by the end of July and for most likely around Pentecost if nothing has clearly caused great destruction and death I will make it very clear that I was a false prophet. I will do exactly what I said I would do on all of those interviews that I have held; to do less, aah well, would be quite insane. (Weinland R. Three More Weeks–quote from near the 1 hour 28 minute point from the CGPFK website version. Sermon given March 29, 2008).

If it doesn’t pan out the only thing I would do is uh . So if I responded to anything at all was to explain to people I was a false prophet that’s the only answer. That I’m no longer a minister. (Mike McConnell Show.  April 7, 2008)

If things do not by mid-June very clearly so, I will make it clear that I was a false prophet and I will never preach again (James Whale Show. April 10, 2010)

So, if I’m not a prophet I’ll reason with you accordingly and be open with you about it…So often for those who do not believe that I’m a prophet, the question is asked, “What will you do if these things do not come to pass?” And I’m going to answer that more fully in this particular sermon today…So again, some cannot wait for me to say that I am not a prophet, or to say that I am a false prophet. Indeed, no one has long to wait do they? Isn’t that amazing? May 27, 2012 is not too far away and if Europe hasn’t risen by early 2012 and if China does not begin destroying the earth before that date, then the reality would be manifest much sooner, obviously. You don’t have to wait until 2012.  As far as the question they ask; what would I do? Well, first I’d repent before God and the Church. I’d acknowledge my sin and pray that God have mercy upon me for being so horribly presumptuous. Candidly (and some are going to really hate hearing this), I’d deeply repent of all those things that concern prophecies that I have given in the office of a prophet…I’d go back through all 57 Truths and eliminate those that are shown to be untrue, repenting as I did so; but I would hold fast to all that I believed to be true. (Weinland R. A Final Plea, With Judgment – Pt. 1. March 12, 2011)

I have listened to him preach since being wrong and did not resign nor sound repentant to me– he clearly is still preaching and claiming to be God’s prophet, despite stating that he would stop if he was wrong.

Now, some have questioned why I bother to report about him.  Others have suggested that my reporting about him perhaps helps his ego or boosts his popularity.  So, although I do intend to report less about him as he becomes less relevant again in the future, a couple of points should be made here that many seem not to understand.

Despite how wrong Ron Weinland is and has been, currently (at least for the month of May 2012) he seems to have had the most popular COG-related website (the-end.com) in the entire world.  My reporting on him is mainly because thousands have come to COGwriter.com in order to learn why he is wrong.  Whether or not reporting on him at COGwriter gives him a personal ego boost is somewhat irrelevant as he is not more important than the thousands he has influenced.

The main point of COGwriter posts about him is to warn all not to let false prophets and false apostles like Ron Weinland turn people away from the God of the Bible. Deception is a powerful thing, and as long as Ron Weinland continues, deception from him has sadly been too effective.  But, despite my own limitations, I try to counter his deception by pointing out in a documented fashion why he cannot possibly be what he claims to be.

Some 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?
Who Are The Two Witnesses? What is their job? What does the Bible reveal? What has the Church of God taught on this subject? Might even Roman Catholic prophecies give some clues here?
Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism? Was the millennium (sometimes called chiliasm) taught by early Christians? Who condemned it? Will Jesus literally reign for 1000 years on the earth? Is this time near?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? 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?
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?
There are Many COGs: Why Support the Living Church of God? This is an article for those who wish to more easily sort out the different COGs. It really should be a MUST READ for current and former WCG/GCI members or any interested in supporting the faithful church. It also explains a lot of what the COGs are all about.

COGwriter

The Church of God, a Worldwide Association (COGWA) posted the following seemingly for its announcements at services today:

In an effort to better serve the brethren in the various U.S. congregations of the Church of God, a Worldwide Association, pastoral transfers and circuit changes take place from time to time. Given the changes that have taken place in attendance in a number of areas, a few additional moves of our pastoral ministry are needed to better serve the brethren. In the case of Kansas and Oklahoma, while Britt Taylor and Greg Sargent have served these people well, we have not had a resident pastor in those states since the beginning of COGWA!…

From Clyde Kilough: We are mak­ing excellent progress in getting our new public-proclamation website, lifehope­andtruth.com, ready for launch­ing at the ministerial conference…

Last week you received the announcement about changes in the distribution of our monthly church newspaper, One Accord. For the first four issues we sent copies of One Accord in bulk to each congregation to distribute to the members who don’t have Internet access or don’t have the ability to download or print it. We have made it a priority to make sure everyone is kept up-to-date with the events and happenings in the Church.

Eight COGWA USA ministers were listed as being transferred (basically in the USA Midwest or East, with Texas being the farthest west location listed).  COGWA was officially formed in December 2010 and is basically a split from the United Church of God (UCG).  While some associated with it indicated that gospel proclamation would be a much higher priority than it had been for UCG, thus far it has not shown the fruits related to that.

It decided that the internet would be its gospel proclamation tool and it is about ready to try to start that.

COGWA has thus far taken steps which I believe are consistent with those to be expected of leaders once in UCG.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Polycarp, Herbert W. Armstrong, and Roderick C. Meredith on Church Government What form of governance did the early church have? Was it hierarchical? Which form of governance would one expect to have in the Philadelphia remnant? The people decide and/or committee forms, odd dictatorships, or the same type that the Philadelphia era itself had?
Unity: Which COG for You? Why so many groups? Why is there lack of unity in the Churches of God? Has it always been this way? What can/should be done about it?
Differences between the Living Church of God and United Church of God This article provides quotes information from the two largest groups which had their origins in WCG as well as commentary.
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.
Concerns about Church of God, a Worldwide Association This seems to be the largest group that came out of the United Church of God. Here is some history and concerns about it.
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?
The Laodicean Church Era has been predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. These are non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG.

Palace of Westminster in London

COGwriter

UK’s Queen Elizabeth’s “Jubilee” celebration is beginning:

Although the Queen has expressed certain support for the EU, in April 2011, it was reported that she had some concerns:

EU chiefs snubbed by UK royals

LEIGH PHILLIPS

27.04.2011 @ 17:43 CET…

On Saturday, it emerged that Queen Elizabeth may believe the EU is too large.

Joan Smith, a broadcaster and ex-partner of Denis MacShane, the former Europe minister, told the Daily Telegraph that at a Christmas Party, the hereditary head of state had said: “The EU is getting awfully big with 28 countries.” When told that the bloc only has 27 member states, but that Turkey may enter soon, she continued: “Oh, we don’t want Turkey to come in for a long time.”

If Great Britain’s monarchy is wary of the Union, the Holy See is more than pleased to recognise the importance of European leaders…

Yet, while Turkey will likely make a deal with the EU and probably will not be a full member (at least not until perhaps near the time it may betray the coming Arabic/Islamic King of the South, per Daniel 11:26; 42–for additional details, please see The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy), it is the United Kingdom, who is currently a member of the European Union, that many feel does not fit in the EU.

Notice something from the latest semi-annual letter from the Presiding Evangelist in the Living Church of God, Dr. Roderick C. Meredith:

 Truly staggering events are destined to take place within the next five to 10 years of your life! Although Christ may not come within that period, quite a number of amazing things will happen or begin to happen. In this Work of the living Christ, we are given genuine understanding of the prophesied events which most ministers and students of “mainstream Christianity” simply cannot understand. The malaise now taking place in Europe because of the recent upsets in the French and Greek elections is destined to bring about a restructuring of Europe. Within the next few years, Britain will no longer be part of the European Union! It will either get out or be pushed out! Notice this startling report from London Daily Express:  “SENIOR Eurocrats are secretly plotting to create a super-powerful EU president to realise their dream of abolishing ­Britain, we can reveal. 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….” Euro-MP Paul Nattall, of the UK Independence Party stated:  “The only hope for Britain is to leave the EU and become an independent nation [emphasis ours]” (May 4, 2012)…

Besides the vastly changed conditions in Europe over the next few years, America, Britain, Canada, Australia and New Zealand will begin to “wither away” unless we truly repent and begin to serve the God of the Bible. There will be a massive financial malaise along with the destruction of the dollar during these years. Awesome weather, tremendous storms and earthquakes and other upsets will occur in the United States, Canada, Britain, Australia and New Zealand. For, though most do not understand, we are the promised “birthright” people who have been given the magnificent blessings of the temperate areas of the earth, control of the vastly important “sea gates” and many other blessings because of Abraham’s obedience. But we have turned away from the true God.

 Now, these blessings are being swiftly removed because of our rebellion against the Creator who guides the rise and fall of nations.

As far as the United Kingdom goes, its place as an economic power has been declining, in at least relative terms, around the world for decades. 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. And there still are likely to be major problems in Europe (Daniel 2:41-43) leading to a prophesied restructuring (Revelation 17:12-13).

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.

Although the United Kingdom (and related Commonwealth nations) and the United States have dominated the world’s economy the past couple of centuries, a shift is occurring and those in the Anglo-nations will not like what will be happening relatively soon.

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

Canada is attempting to increase American military/naval presence in Asia:

Canada seeks Singapore hub to support U.S. military Asia ‘pivot’ toward China…

Defence Minister Peter MacKay revealed the plan in an exclusive interview Friday with The Canadian Press from Singapore, where he was attending a major security conference.

U.S. Defence Secretary Leon Panetta is expected to give more details of the Pentagon’s renewed military focus on Asia during a major speech in Singapore on Saturday at the Shangri-La Dialogue.

http://www.guelphmercury.com/news/canada/article/736362–canada-seeks-singapore-hub-to-support-u-s-military-asia-pivot-toward-china

Notice what the USA has now publicly declared:

Panetta: US shifting 60% of warships to Pacific by 2020

USA TODAY  2 June 2012 (in Singapore)

SINGAPORE (AP) – The Pentagon will shift more Navy warships to the Asia-Pacific region over the next several years and by 2020, about 60% of the fleet will be assigned there as part of a new strategy to increase U.S. presence in Asia, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said Saturday.

The reality, as I have warned before, is that because the USA as well as Canada and Australia are so worried about China, that they will not be ready for the attack that ultimately will come from Europe (though Europe may have China takeover Australia).

And speaking of Australia, notice:

The Australian Government Made A Secret Plan For War With China In 2009

June 1, 2012

New details have emerged that reveal a 2009 Australian government document included a secret assessment on the risks of a Chinese attack — and a detailed plan for possible military action against the superpower.  http://www.businessinsider.com/australia-china-kevin-rudd-2009-2012-6

Not surprisingly, China does not like that.   Last month, China told Australia to pick between China or the USA to protect it:

AUSTRALIA cannot juggle its relationships with the United States and China indefinitely and must choose a ”godfather” to protect it, according to a prominent Chinese defence strategist.

The warning by Song Xiaojun, a former senior officer of the People’s Liberation Army…”Australia always has to depend on somebody else, whether it is to be the ‘son’ of the US or ‘son’ of China,” he said. “[It] depends on who is more powerful, and based on the strategic environment.” (Wen P. Chinese official: it’s us or America. National Times, May 16, 2012. http://www.theage.com.au/opinion/political-news/chinese-official-its-us-or-america-20120515-1yp5f.html)

Thus far, Australia has chosen the USA (see Australia accepts US troops, China not pleased for more information).  The Chinese do not like that.

I have been warning for years that I suspect that because of biblical prophecies concerning the dividing of the Anglo-lands by the forces of King of the North (e.g. Daniel 11:39), that China is likely to end up with Australia. Since reporting on the announcement that Julia Gillard became Australia’s Prime Minister (see Australia Now Has a Female Prime Minister: Prophetic Ramifications?).

The USA, itself, is so concerned about China as a threat, that it will overlook (and continue to support to its peril) the rise of the military power in Europe.  Canada is also following the USA’s lead on this.

The move to establish a Canadian military presence in Singapore is another step in that direction.  These moves will not stop the rise of the final King of the North of biblical prophecy–and that power is not Chinese (though China will, for a while, give it some support).

Several 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? 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?
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?
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?
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Genesis and Chinese Characters Where did the Chinese people come from? This article provides information showing that the Chinese peoples must have known about various accounts in the Book of Genesis up until their dispersion after the Tower of Babel.
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: The Sabbath and Some of God’s Witness in China When did Christianity first come to China? And is there early evidence that they observed the seventh day sabbath?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
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”? What is ahead for Europe?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? There is a Mayan calendar prediction for change in 2012. 2012 changes were also centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans (the Hindus may have some predictions for the next decade as well). Do these Mayan/Hindu/Hopi prophecies have any value? 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?

Pope Benedictus XVI

COGwriter

The Pope made a statement that should be looked at:

Benedict XVI’s message to families: “Where Peter is, there is the Church”

Saint Ambrose, Milan’s patron saint, came from a Roman family and has always kept his ties with the Eternal City and the Church of Rome alive, affirming and praising the primacy of the Bishop of Rome. Peter represents “the Church’s foundation and the magisterium of discipline.” He then pronounced his famous statement: “Where Peter is, there is the Church.”  http://vaticaninsider.lastampa.it/en/homepage/the-vatican/detail/articolo/family2012-15607/

Two points:  First, before getting to what Pope Benedict said, according to the Bible there is no “Eternal City” for Christians in this age (cf. Hebrews 13:14)–and if there were, it would be more likely be Jerusalem (cf. Revelation 3:21; 21:12) and not Rome (cf. Revelation 17:9-11).

But, second, and to deal with the Pope’s quote, the Bible teaches that the true church is where Jesus, not Peter.  While the Pope probably said this as part of his ecumenical plans, this is not what the Bible teaches (note: both Catholic and Protestant translations are shown to demonstrate this):

20 For where there are two or three gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. (Matthew 18:20, Douay-Rheims)

20 For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them. (Matthew 18:20, NKJV)

The Bible does not teach that about Peter.

Something that should be important to all who profess to be Christian is that the true Church of God would have the same practices and teachings of the apostles, including the Apostle Peter.  And sadly, the Church of Rome has deviated from them in many respects (for some details, please see the article Which Is Faithful: The Roman Catholic Church or the Living Church of God?).  And those that think that Rome, Alexandria, Antioch, etc. have apostolic succession, really should study the article on Apostolic Succession.

As far as Peter goes, essentially the Vatican teaches that Peter was given the “keys of the kingdom” by Jesus and there is a mosaic of keys on the entrance to the Basilica at the Vatican.  Here is what they look like:

Keys at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City (Joyce Thiel, June 2009)

Yet, Rome has misunderstood certain scriptures in Matthew they tend to apply to Peter and the keys–for details, please check out the article Was Peter the Rock Who Alone Received the Keys of the Kingdom?

In addition to misunderstanding certain scriptures, Rome itself has had other problems this year (beyond the sex scandals) as Vatileaks reported, so the Pope decided to make some public comments:

Pope Addresses ‘Vatileaks‘ Scandal in General Audience

Christian Post – ‎1 June 2012…

in his remarks on Wednesday, the Pontiff spoke about the “Vatileaks” scandal publicly for the first time since the news was reported, with the intention of reassuring Catholics.”The events of recent days involving the Curia and my collaborators have brought sadness to my heart,” said the pope at the close of the Vatican’s general audience…Over the past several months Paolo Gabriele, a butler who worked at the Pope’s household, had been sneaking confident papal correspondence into the public domain. The documents showcased various internal power struggles within the Vatican hierarchy, as well as possible corruption.

Here is a little more about some of that:

Inside the Vatican’s power struggles

CBC.ca – ‎1 June 2012 he Vatican has been under intense scrutiny for almost six months now, the result of leaked correspondence – the so-called Vatileaks– that alleges financial corruption and intrigue within the internal government of the Holy See…Just a week ago the president of the Vatican Bank, Ettore Gotti Tedeschi, was ousted after receiving a unanimous vote of no confidence from bank overseers.Since then, Vatican authorities arrested the Pope’s own butler, Paolo Gabriele, on the suspicion that he had been leaking private letters to Gianluigi Nuzzi, a local investigative journalist looking into the corruption allegations…

This Vatileaks scandal, as it came to be known, began in January 2012 when an independent Italian TV station, La7, released a series of confidential letters, the first one being between Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano and the Pope dating back to March 2011.

In the letter, Vigano alleges there were “so many situations of corruption and abuse of power long rooted in the various departments” of the Vatican’s internal government that was costing the Holy See millions of euros…An official Vatican statement in February maintained that the sentiments in Vigano’s letters are representative of “fears unsupported by truth,” and are not accurate.

Those interested in learning more about Peter, 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:

Was Peter the Rock Who Alone Received the Keys of the Kingdom? How should Matthew 16:18-19 be understood?
The Apostle Peter He was an original apostle and early Christian leader. Where was Peter buried? Where did Peter die?
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!
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.

Berlin Reichstag

COGwriter By Michael

European unemployment gets worse. Spain has the worst unemployment in the EU, but Germany actually continues to improve. Here’s a recent report from the Financial Times:

Eurozone jobless rate hits record 11%
June 1, 2012

Spain again saw by far the worst unemployment performance, with its rate rising to 24.3 per cent in April… By contrast, German unemployment fell further – to only 5.4 per cent of the workforce.

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/6c2d4eae-abf3-11e1-a8a0-00144feabdc0.html

For years, Germany has been one of the world’s top exporter nations and has been strengthening the EU economy.

Later, the article optimistically states that if EU economies improve, unemployment is expected to still hit 11.5% this year. To combat economic difficulties, European Central Bank hopes to decrease interest rates further. The decrease in interest rates will likely encourage EU countries to go further in debt. This will help Germany gain more financial control of Europe.

This type of dependence on Germany does make the EU unstable, but Daniel 2:41-43 does prophecy this for a period of time:

⁴¹ Whereas you saw the feet and toes, partly of potter’s clay and partly of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; yet the strength of the iron shall be in it, just as you saw the iron mixed with ceramic clay. ⁴² And as the toes of the feet were partly of iron and partly of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong and partly fragile. ⁴³ As you saw iron mixed with ceramic clay, they will mingle with the seed of men; but they will not adhere to one another, just as iron does not mix with clay.

Germany, biblically known as Assyria, is the strongest economy in the European Union. Although Germany will likely see many difficulties as well as other European nations, their economy will last until Christ returns. Daniel 2:44 states:

⁴⁴ And in the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? What MUST happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation?
Resurgent Germany: A Fourth Reich? Who are the German peoples and where did they come from? What is Germany’s role in end time prophecy?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?

“I will break the pride of your power” (Leviticus 26:19)

COGwriter

The US Dollar is again being removed as part of additional international trade:

China, Japan to Use Yen, Yuan and Not the USD

1 June 2012…

China and Japan (China’s main trading partner) will no longer  use the U.S. dollar as the only currency in trade with each other. They will use  the Yuan and the Yen directly with each other. This will see the dollar removed from a large chunk of the world’s trade –in itself, not a very large percentage,  but a significant one. It’s the start of a trend that is set to grow…The purpose of foreign exchange and gold reserves is to provide ‘global money’  (which includes gold) for potential rainy days.

China–Japan Currency Deal Ushers in a New Era

This will be the first time that China has allowed a major currency, apart from the US dollar, to trade directly with the yuan…“This will help lower currency conversion costs for economic entities, facilitate the use of the yuan and Japanese yen in bilateral trade and investment, promote financial cooperation and enhance economic and financial ties between the two countries.”

…“This is part of China’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on the dollar. The yen has been chosen because of large trade flows between the two countries,” Reuters quoted Dariusz Kowalczyk, senior economist and strategist at Credit Agricole CIB in Hong Kong, as saying.

China and Japan to begin direct currency trading

China and Japan will start direct currency trading on Friday as Beijing marks another stage on its journey to internationalise the yuan…The official Xinhua news agency reported that the deal will save about $3.0 billion in annual costs tied to using the dollar in trade transactions.

Today, marks the first day this is happening.

This will cost the USA in many ways.

First, the USA will stop generating as much earnings by the US dollar no longer being an intermediary.  The USA has historically benefited disproportionately from international trade that it is not directly involved in because of the widespread use of the USA dollar at the currency of most cross-border trade.

Second, less US dollars now need to be held in reserves as the nations that reduce trading with it will need less of it.  This will mean that at some point, foreign holders will likely want to redeem those dollars for goods and services–goods and services that the USA is unlikely to be able to supply at current prices.  Amongst other things, this can lead to hyperinflation and a dramatic reduction in the value of the USA dollar and the standard of living in the USA.

Also, notice a prophecy from the Bible:

3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry…5 Indeed, because he transgresses by wine, He is a proud man… 6 “Will not all these take up a proverb against him, And a taunting riddle against him, and say, ‘Woe to him who increases What is not his–how long? And to him who loads himself with many pledges’? 7 Will not your creditors rise up suddenly? Will they not awaken who oppress you? And you will become their booty. 8 Because you have plundered many nations, All the remnant of the people shall plunder you (Habakkuk 2:3,5,6-8).

Now, the USA is the largest debtor nation in the history of humanity. And while we are not yet to the point that its creditors will rise up suddenly, the moves by Japan and China are another step in that direction.  Europe already has a currency, the Euro (which it may modify), which had reduced its need for US dollars in trade.  Russia, Europe, and the Arab world have all taken steps the past few years to move away from the USA dollar.  Others nations, like Korea, will as well.

Third, as I wrote in 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect, the world is moving away from the US dollar and more towards gold and other currencies.  The move toward gold backing is a vote of lessor confidence in the US dollar.  And right now, the USA dollar is only backed by confidence in it (along with implied military threats).

The USA has long trusted in its wealth, dollar, and military.  Its pride in all of those will be broken (Leviticus 26:19) and the cracks are forming.

Fourth, the Bible tells of the time when the kings of the sunrise (Revelation 16:12) will get together militarily.  And while Japan and China are not military allies, today’s move joins them closer together.  And Bible prophecy involving what must be a higly Asian (with Russia as part of it) military will come to pass.

To learn more, please check out the following articles:

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? 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? Are there biblical and non-biblical prophecies about Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? This is a lengthy article with many prophecies that Barack Obama may end up fulfilling.
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 by him?
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?
Abortion, the Bible, and a Woman’s Right to Choose Do you know what the Bible teaches on this? Has the Roman Catholic Church allowed abortions? What about the Living Church of God?
The Plain Truth About Gold in Prophecy. How Should a Christian View Gold? What do economists and the Bible teach about gold? Gold and silver may drop in value. Inflation/deflation? What do Christians need to know about gold?
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?
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Genesis and Chinese Characters Where did the Chinese people come from? This article provides information showing that the Chinese peoples must have known about various accounts in the Book of Genesis up until their
dispersion after the Tower of Babel.
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: The Sabbath and Some of God’s Witness in China When did Christianity first come to China? And is there early evidence that they observed the seventh day sabbath?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
Korea in Prophecy, Any Witness? Where did the Korean people come from? Does God have a plan for the Koreans? Is Korea mentioned in any prophecies? Will Koreans be among the first in the Kingdom of God? 한국의 언어로 : 한국 예언, 모든 증인에?
Japan, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Any Witness? Where did the Japanese people come from? Have they had
any witness?
Japan, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: Prophecy Japan in prophecy. What is prophesied for Japan? Will God save the Japanese?
Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach?