Church of God News

COGwriter

Today’s TW & Prophecy from LCG has the following:

Will Germany leave the EU?

Many assume that Greece will be forced to leave the EU and that Spain and Italy must follow. This could leave Germany with a trillion euro liability–something few Germans want their nation to be responsible for. Experts and the European press are starting to suggest that the only really feasible option for Germany may be for it to leave and let the EU “sink or swim” on its own (Telegraph, August 21, 2012).

During the Olympics, while much of the European press was focused on the games in London, sobering headlines appeared regarding the demise of the EU, including: “Greece must go bankrupt” in the German Handelsblatt (August 16, 2012), and “Germany may be the country that brings the euro crashing down” (Telegraph, August 21, 2012). France’s voice has been conspicuously absent from the recent rhetoric about the demise of the EU. This prompted the observation from noted British commentator, Christopher Booker, “The old ‘Franco-German motor’ is dying–and with it the entire project it drove forward for 50 years” (ibid.).

Bible prophecy reveals that the formation of the end-time Beast of Revelation will occur in Europe and will most likely be led by Germany. This formation will include 10 kings or nations, who will surrender their sovereignty to a central power (see Revelation 17). Events are now occurring on the European scene that could set the stage for this next, grand step in Bible prophecy. See our free booklet, The Beast of Revelation, for more details!

A reorganization must happen in Europe (Revelation 17:12-13), but there are likely to various other ones first. Ultimately, despite problems (Daniel 2:41-43), Europe will, for a time, rise up (Revelation 13).  Germany, who appears to have at least some Assyrian ancestry, will play a role in the emergence of end time Babylon.

For details on those prophecies, check out the following:

Germany’s Assyrian Roots Throughout History Are the Germanic peoples descended from Asshur of the Bible? Have there been real Christians in Germanic history? What about the “Holy Roman Empire”?
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?
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?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Is the German Defense Minister one to watch? What do Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecies suggest?
Resurgent Germany: A Fourth Reich? Who are the German peoples and where did they come from? What is Germany’s role in end time prophecy?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012, 2013, or 2014? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Why does Daniel 9:26-27 seem to be referring to a peace deal confirmed by a European leader.

Thorium Sample

COGwriter

India may possibly become a world energy leader:

Is India About to Alter the World’s Energy Future?…

Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive chemical element that is named after the Norse god of thunder, Thor. Discovered in 1828 by Swedish chemist Jons Jakob Berzelius, the 90th element on the periodic table has been described by Forbes as possibly “the biggest energy breakthrough since fire.”

According to Greentech Media, Thorium the potential to replace uranium as a ultra-cheap and ultra-safe nuclear energy source. Not only is the metal approximately three times as abundant as uranium in the earth’s crust, but it also contains up to 200 times the energy density…

Thorium is finally attracting increasing interest as an energy source from around the world. Apart from India, China has also announced its intentions to develop a thorium nuclear reactor, while Canada, Germany, Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States have all experimented with using thorium as a substitute nuclear fuel in existing nuclear reactors.

India’s thorium plans though are possibly the most well known and most promising of them all…

India has the world’s largest thorium deposits and with a world hungry for low-carbon energy, thorium can prove to be India’s making.

“Quietly researching this fuel for decades, Indian scientists have waited for just the right moment to build their first thorium-powered nuclear reactor,” she said, in a piece for the Huffington Post.

“If the rest of the world believes India to be a sleeping elephant that is finally rising, then this tale reveals just how much more there will be to see when the elephant is fully awake.”

http://oilprice.com/Alternative-Energy/Nuclear-Power/Is-India-About-to-Alter-the-Worlds-Energy-Future.html

If India does, in fact despite its problems, become a major lead of thorium technology, this could be a factor in the rise of the time of the Gentiles that the Bible tells of.

The fact that this looks to come from India as opposed to the USA or Canada suggests, once again, that the Americas are not keeping up as the leaders of the world in various aspects of technology.  This does not bode well for the dominance of the Anglo-powers.  But may result in improved living standards in India and elsewhere.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

India, Its Biblical Past and Future: Any Witness? The Bible discusses the origins of those of Indian heritage and discusses some of the witness to them (including those in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka).
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for China? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, 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?

Britain’s Prince Harry (Photo by Walking With The Wounded)

COGwriter

Aspects of British and American moral decay are being noticed by some reporters:

Loss of morals a royal shame

Aug 24, 2012

This week, photos emerged of a hotel in Las Vegas where Harry was partying naked with some attractive girls he met earlier in the night.

The overwhelming reaction has been a cheeky chuckle, with a bit of “boys will be boys”, “he’s only doing what the rest of us wish we could” and “at least he’s not boring like William” thrown in for good measure.

My gut reaction feels more like, “Bugger, is this what we’ve come to?”  http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/story/2012/08/24/loss-of-morals-a-royal-shame-caroline-hutchinson/

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New study says full-frontal nudity on prime-time TV up 6,300 percent over last year

Aug 23, 2012

Think family-friendly viewing times mean family-friendly content?

Maybe not.

The Parents Television Council (PTC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating parents about television content, has released a new study looking at nudity on prime-time broadcast television which reveals a major increase over the 2011-2012 season.

The study found that there were 76 incidents of full nudity on 37 shows compared to 15 incidents in 14 shows the previous ratings season, representing a 407 percent rise in incidents. Almost 70 percent of the scenes that featured such nudity were on shows which aired prior to 9pm, compared to 50 percent of the full nudity scenes which aired before 9pm during the 2010-2011 season.

In addition, the study says only five of the 76 full-nudity depictions contained an “S” descriptor to warn parents to the explicit nature of the episode.

But perhaps the most jaw-dropping finding was in regard to full-frontal nudity. While just one incidence of this occurred during the 2010-2011 study period, 64 documented full-frontal incidences occurred this past season, a 6,300 percent increase. http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2012/08/23/new-study-says-full-frontal-nudity-on-prime-time-tv-up-400-over-last-year/?intcmp=features

Prince Harry (whose full name is Henry Charles Albert David) is officially a member of the Church of England and is supposed to stand for some type of biblically-related morality, yet he has become a poster child for the tabloids once again.  And in the USA, the country who “leads” in producing television and movies (though technically, India produces more movies, American television and movies are more widely viewed around the world) continues to try to have actresses (and some actors) wear less and less and act like this is okay.  It is not.

Notice some statements from Jesus and the Apostle Paul:

27 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’  28 But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. (Matthew 5:27-28)

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 6:18-19)

8 I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; 9 in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10 but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.  (1 Timothy 2:8-10)

Overall, the Anglo-descended nations do not care what Jesus (or the rest of the Bible) says about flaunting sexual immorality.

Those in the Anglo-American nations do not have the excuse that we did not have the word of God freely available and discussed for generations.

The Anglo-nations need national repentance.  Notice that lack of repentance is listed as a reason that the King of Assyria (the final King of the North) will become Ephraim’s king:

3 I taught Ephraim to walk…5…But the Assyrian shall be his king, Because they refused to repent. 6 And the sword shall slash in his cities, Devour his districts, And consume them, Because of their own counsels. 7 My people are bent on backsliding from Me. Though they call to the Most High, None at all exalt Him. (Hosea 11:3a, 5b-7)

The prophesied shame is starting to come upon the Anglo-American powers.  Without repentance, increased pride is occurring, and this will be followed by the prophesied destruction of the Anglo-nations. And yes, other nations have their sins, but they will be punished later.

People individually and the nations collectively need to repent, because truly the end is near.  Those who think that they will be able to wait until the last moment (which will probably be sometime in the next decade) are deceiving themselves as a strong delusion will come upon the world then.

The New Testament further teaches:

16 But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin (James 4:16-17).

Anglo-American religious leaders should all know that they need to denounce sin, but most have compromised on several points.

Let’s briefly look at another warning in Isaiah 30:12-13:

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

Of course, more and more, the Anglo-American nations are trusting in policies that encourage perversity.  Prostitution is legal in New Zealand, Australia, and parts of the USA. New Zealand, interestingly, has the highest promiscuity rate for women in the entire world according to one study (New Zealand women most promiscuous Sydney Morning Herald AAP – Oct 13, 2007. http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2007/10/13/1191696214489.html). The Anglo-nations have seen rises in homosexuality and are often changing laws to accommodate this biblically prohibited practice (Australia has some of the biggest “gay pride” parades in the world, per Concerns Over Australia’s Dollar and New Zealand Debt).

Let’s look at a few verses in Hosea:

5… the Assyrian shall be his king, Because they refused to repent. 6 And the sword shall slash in his cities, Devour his districts, And consume them, Because of their own counsels. 7 My people are bent on backsliding from Me. Though they call to the Most High, None at all exalt Him. (Hosea 11:5-7)

Though the Anglo-descended peoples often call to God, they have backslidden and will not repent. So, the Assyrian will be their king and devour their lands. While they will have troubles (Mark 13:8) prior to the Great Tribulation, when the time for destruction comes, it will be sudden (cf. Jeremiah 15:8).

The latest incident with Prince Harry and the increasing public nudity on American television are sadly, additional signs of moral decay.  And increased moral decay will lead to disaster for the Anglo-descended nations.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Canada in Prophecy: What Does Bible Prophecy, Catholic Prophecy, and other Predictions Suggest About the Future of Canada? There are prophecies that suggest involvement with Canada. And many are not positive about its future.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
Germany’s Assyrian Roots Throughout History Are the Germanic peoples descended from Asshur of the Bible? Have there been real Christians in Germanic history? What about the “Holy Roman Empire”?
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?
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?
Pornography: A scourge on society Is pornography harmless fun? Does the Bible teach anything about it? What are the views of some involved with it?
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 Bible Condemns Homosexuality “Same-sex marriage” for “gays” and lesbians is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality?  Can homosexuals change?
Is American Football Evil? Is the most popular spectator sport in the USA something that Christians should watch? What do the Bible and early writings show?
Is Smoking a Sin? What does the Bible teach? What have COG leaders written? Can smokers change?
Binge Alcohol Drinking and the Bible Many college students and others overindulge in alcohol. Are there health risks? What does the Bible teach?
Obesity and Prophecy Does the Bible warn about the consequences of being obese? Is overeating dangerous? Is gluttony condemned?
What is the Gospel? True religion should be based upon the true gospel. What are some of the different gospels and where did they come from? Do you believe the true or a false gospel?
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 Do You Mean — Repentance? Do you know what repentance is? Have you truly repented? Repented of what? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject.

COGwriter

A Texas judge made some disturbing comments as to what he believes may happen if Barack Obama is re-elected to be USA President:

23 August 2012

(CNN) — An elected county judge in Texas is warning that the nation could descend into civil war if President Barack Obama is re-elected, and is calling for a trained, well-equipped force to battle the United Nations troops he says Obama would bring in.

The comments by Lubbock County Judge Tom Head, who oversees emergency planning efforts, were broadcast by CNN affiliate KJTV…

Obama, Head said, will “try to give the sovereignty of the United States away to the United Nations. What do you think the public’s going to do when that happens? We are talking civil unrest, civil disobedience, possibly, possibly civil war … I’m not talking just talking riots here and there. I’m talking Lexington, Concord, take up arms, get rid of the dictator. OK, what do you think he is going to do when that happens? He is going to call in the U.N. troops, personnel carriers, tanks and whatever.”  http://www.cnn.com/2012/08/23/us/texas-judge-warning/index.html

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?
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare? Here are current and historical perspectives on a matter which show the beliefs of the true church on military participation. Is war proper for Christians?
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.
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? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2018 or 2019?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? Eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. This article includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article on this page on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”, based up an early 20th century writing.
Canada in Prophecy: What Does Bible Prophecy, Catholic Prophecy, and other Predictions Suggest About the Future of Canada? There are prophecies that suggest involvement with Canada. And many are not positive about its future.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West? If so, what does that really mean for the USA and its Anglo allies.
Is Tony Blair Apocalyptic? The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom converted to Catholicism shortly after leaving his office and has been active in European affairs. What role might he play?

Damascus, Capital of Syria

COGwriter

Syria’s capital Damascus is under siege:

August 23, 2012

Parts of Syria’s capital were under siege Thursday with Syrian government forces battling rebels in and around Damascus in pitched fighting.

Activists reported a campaign of shelling and house-to-house raids in Daraya, on the southwest edge of Damascus, as well as continuing clashes in the city’s Hajar al-Aswad district.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said rebel fighters attacked a military checkpoint on the Daraa-Damascus highway, killing or wounding 10 government troops.

The group says at least 41 people were killed in Damascus on Wednesday. Residents said the fighting was the fiercest since the army recently reasserted control of opposition-held neighborhoods there.

The Observatory said clashes also continued Thursday in the northern city of Aleppo, where a number of foreign fighters are reported to have joined the opposition.

Fresh fighting between pro- and anti-Assad gunmen erupted for a fourth day Thursday in the northern Lebanese city of Tripoli, leaving one dead and at least two wounded. The clashes breached a truce agreed to by political leaders less than 24 hours earlier in a bid to halt fighting fueled by tensions in neighboring Syria.

Sunni Muslims have led the revolt against Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad, whose minority Alawite sect has mostly stood with him. Sunni-Alawite tensions have been growing in parts of Lebanon as well, like Tripoli, where the two groups live in neighboring districts.  http://www.voanews.com/content/un-warns-of-humanitarian-crisis-as-syria-fighting-intensifies/1494136.html

Both biblical and Islamic prophecy tell of the destruction of at least parts of Syria, such as Damascus.  Here is some of what the Bible teaches:

7 thus says the Lord God: “It shall not stand, Nor shall it come to pass. 8 For the head of Syria is Damascus (Isaiah 7:7-8)

3 Thus says the Lord: “For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, Because they have threshed Gilead with implements of iron. (Amos 1:3)

1 The burden against Damascus. “Behold, Damascus will cease from being a city, And it will be a ruinous heap. (Isaiah 17:1)

23 Against Damascus. “Hamath and Arpad are shamed, For they have heard bad news. They are fainthearted; There is trouble on the sea; It cannot be quiet. 24 Damascus has grown feeble; She turns to flee, And fear has seized her. Anguish and sorrows have taken her like a woman in labor. 25 Why is the city of praise not deserted, the city of My joy? 26 Therefore her young men shall fall in her streets, And all the men of war shall be cut off in that day,” says the Lord of hosts. 27 “I will kindle a fire in the wall of Damascus, And it shall consume the palaces of Ben-Hadad.”  (Jeremiah 49:23-27)

While this destruction could come as the result of civil war (and that is likely to be a factor), the reality is that the Syrian rebel forces at this instant may not have the military ability to do so.  So, how might some of these prophecies be fulfilled?

Partially because of the internal civil war and this semi-siege on Damascus, Syria’s President may decide that attacking Israel, probably in conjunction with support from Iran, is his best option (which could include supporting Iran if it attacks Israel or Israel attacks it).  Attacking Israel, however, will not be his best option (he should repent and probably leave office), though he may do that. The Bible suggests that Syria will support the coming final King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:1-8) and a change in or from the Assad regime will be necessary for this to happen–and it will come to pass.

More trouble is coming to Damascus as it will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1).

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

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? 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?
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?

Ben Bernanke

COGwriter

The U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman and others like the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) know that the USA has major financial problems:

22 August 2012

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — The Federal Reserve and its chairman Ben Bernanke received a surprising endorsement from one of Mitt Romney’s top economic advisers, despite the fact that Romney has been critical of both.

Glenn Hubbard, the dean of Columbia University’s business school and part of Romney’s inner circle of economic advisers, told Reuters television that Bernanke has “done a very good job” running the nation’s central bank.  http://money.cnn.com/2012/08/22/news/economy/romney-bernanke/

22 August 2012

The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) warned Wednesday, that unless bickering politicians get their act together, nearly $500 billion in spending cuts and tax hikes would kick in from January. Over 10 years these policies could take almost $7 trillion out of the economy…

This assault on the federal budgetary deficit is also known as a fiscal cliff, a phrase coined by Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke.

The main facets of this cliff would be a withdrawal of tax cuts, protection from Minimum Alternate Tax, abolishment of various kinds of tax concessions, and massive cuts in both defense and non-defense sector spending. A temporary payroll tax break and emergency unemployment benefits would also get the chop.

According to the CBO, the combined effect of the cliff would likely plunge the U.S. into a recession and push up unemployment to record levels – in other words a financial apocalypse.  http://www.valuewalk.com/2012/08/bernanke-cbo-warn-about-financial-cliff-as-congress-dithers/

22 August 2012

Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke squeezed the shorts a bit on Wednesday, with the latest FOMC minutes signaling further monetary action, or QE3, could come fairly soon, which in turn sparked a risk asset rally.  While the Fed acknowledged that the fiscal cliff, the European sovereign debt crisis, and the global slowdown remain major risks, it is raw data that will push the FOMC to action.  http://www.forbes.com/sites/afontevecchia/2012/08/22/forget-the-fed-minutes-qe3-depends-on-the-unemployment-rate/

It is true that the USA federal government needs to actually solve the budget crisis.  And while that would help, it simply will not help enough–no matter who wins the current presidential election.

Interestingly, George Soros, a man who has long supported Barack Obama, has taken some interesting action:

Top Investor Warns of “Financial Armageddon” as Soros Dumps Bank Stocks, Buys Gold

Aug 21, 2012 excerpts…

In what analysts say is another indication that the economy will get worse in the not-too-distant future, recent filings by billionaire financier George Soros show he dumped virtually all his holdings in major financial companies like JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and Citigroup. His multi-billion-dollar U.S. fund also loaded up on gold, with the portfolio now holding more than $130 million worth of the precious metal.Data compiled by analysts based on Soros’ most recent

13F filingwith the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) showed that during the last quarter, his American fund sold more than a million shares of the big financial companies with a value of almost $50 million. During that period, Soros Fund Management also more than doubled its position in the SPDR Gold Trust to nearly 900,000 shares.“When a major global player with direct ties to the White House, Wall Street, and the banking system starts off-loading stocks and starts stacking gold, it suggests a very serious market move is set to happen,”

observed commentator Mac Slavo, a generally pessimistic analyst who follows financial news closely and has long predicted unprecedented economic chaos…

In a recent interview on CNBC, billionaire investor Jim Rogers — another star — offered some context as to what may be coming. Warning Americans to prepare for “financial Armageddon,” he said the coming economic catastrophe will likely hit sometime after the upcoming U.S. elections.http://www.thenewamerican.com/economy/markets/item/12552-top-investor-warns-of-%E2%80%9Cfinancial-armageddon%E2%80%9D-as-soros-dumps-bank-stocks-buys-gold

It is pretty well assured that either Mitt Romney or Barack Obama (presuming one wins the US presidential race and does not die) will lead an increase of US debt in 2013 and some time beyond.  And, at least for a while presuming he lives, etc., Ben Bernanke will play some type of supporting role.

Now, the real cause of why all of this is happening is sin. Because of it’s increasing secularism, greed, and tolerance for sexual, abortive, and other sins, the USA is getting closer to reaping more what it has sown:

7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. (Galatians 6:7-8)

One of the many cursings that were prophesied in the Bible to be reaped for disobedience was that of accumulation of debt:

43 The alien who is among you shall rise higher and higher above you, and you shall come down lower and lower. 44 He shall lend to you, but you shall not lend to him; he shall be the head, and you shall be the tail. 45 Moreover all these curses shall come upon you and pursue and overtake you, until you are destroyed, because you did not obey the voice of the LORD your God, to keep His commandments and His statutes which He commanded you (Deuteronomy 28:42-45).

At some point in time, the USA will likely start to experience massive inflation (which is something that the Fed Chairman should realize). And afterwards, its creditors will rise up–this will be a greater “financial armaggedon” than most who believe in that type of disaster have likely imagined to be truly possible–and will eliminate more than the US “middle class.”

Notice that God mentions that that destruction will happen to those that increased their debt at the end time:

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).

The above prophecy will be fulfilled at the time of the end and seems to be directed to one or more nations like the USA. It makes little sense that it would be directed towards the modern nation of Israel as it does not have enemy creditors. It must be a nation or group of nations with some prominence.

Since the USA has the most debt of any nation of all time, it seems to be a leading (though not necessarily only) candidate to be included in it. Increasing deficits puts the USA in a dangerous position that Bible prophecy indicates that it will not be able to recover from.

Let’s briefly look at another warning in Isaiah 30:12-13:

12 Therefore thus says the Holy One of Israel:

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

Of course, more and more, the Anglo-American nations are trusting in policies that encourage perversity. While there is oppression in these nations (especially racial), the Hebrew word for it can also be translated “unjust gain.” This can include not just the historical exploitation of of various peoples, but can probably also include the fact that the economies of the Anglo-American nations for the past few decades has been benefiting from the gains of foreigners loaning money to at least two of them.

Since the Roe vs. Wade pro-abortion decision, the USA has became the greatest debtor nation in the history of humankind. Since the USA owes alien nations trillions of dollars, it appears that the curse in Deuteronomy 28:44 of having to borrow from aliens is happening to it now.

Notice also the following:

22 August 2012

(CBS News) ARLINGTON, Texas – In the presidential campaign, both candidates have made the election all about the middle class…About 85 percent say it is more difficult than it was a decade ago to make ends meet…Between 2000 and 2010, median middle-class wealth dropped 28 percent from about $130,000 to $93,000. Lower real estate values played a big part. About 42 percent said their financial situation is worse now than before the Great Recession…”This is the first decade in the post-World War II era where the middle class — indeed all families — have actually less income at the end of the decade than they had at the beginning of the decade,” said Paul Taylor, who co-authored the report.  http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18563_162-57498573/middle-class-americans-see-their-incomes-drop/

There actually are carnal economic solutions that the USA could implement. The USA could get to the point that it does not need to import almost any energy through shale, natural gas, offshore and other oil developments, nuclear power, etc. The allowance of this by the USA government would also trigger a construction boom and create a lot of jobs. There are also steps that could be carnally taken with how it handles unemployment, welfare, agriculture, business regulations, taxes, etc., but these will not likely be changed to the degree that the USA needs (it will actually, at this stage, take the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the King of God). But most its leaders will not see even the carnal economic solutions clear enough.

Why?

Because most do not really wish to retain God in their knowledge, so they are not able to see those things that are truly necessary–they work on the futile. Notice that this was prophesied for those who would tend to support (though not necessarily participate in), such sins as homosexuality:

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, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man — and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.

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 1:18-32)

Without massive national repentance, the Bible is clear that complete destruction of the economy, and even government, of the USA is certain–and this include the so-called “middle class.” This is something that leaders, such as the Fed Chairman, need to know.

While the USA needs national repentance, and this is not likely to happen, you personally can repent and be saved. Both spiritually and carnally.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include the following:

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 Gospel? True religion should be based upon the true gospel. What are some of the different gospels and where did they come from? Do you believe the true or a false gospel?
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.
Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers those important questions.
True vs. False Conversion Are you really converted or willing to be? What is true conversion? What is false conversion? What are the dangers of false conversion? Evangelist Roderick Meredith provides information on those important questions.
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?
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.
Some Dissimilarities Between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) and the Real Church of God The genuine Church of God is not related to the Mormons and this article explains some differences and a couple of similarities. Also, might certain LDS prophecies apply to Mitt Romney?
Abortion, the Bible, and a Woman’s Right to Choose Is abortion sin? What exactly are a woman’s reproductive rights? Do you know what the Bible teaches on this?
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?
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?

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

COGwriter

Russia, despite some concerns it has about Syria’s President Assad, has decided to directly blame the West for the situation in Syria:

22 August 2012

MOSCOW (AP) — Russia says Western powers are “openly instigating” Syrian opposition groups to take up arms in their fight to unseat President Bashar Assad…Russia’s Foreign Ministry claimed Wednesday that the West “has done nothing” to urge Assad’s opponents to start a dialogue with his government.  http://www.chron.com/news/article/Russia-West-instigating-Syrian-opposition-3806748.php

The above, at least partially, seems to be a response to a statement earlier this week by USA President Obama:

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has declared the threat of chemical or biological warfare in Syria a “red line” for the United States, outlining for the first time the point at which his administration could feel forced to intervene militarily in the Arab country’s increasingly messy conflict.

Speaking to reporters Monday at the White House, Obama warned about the use or deployment of such weapons of mass destruction and said they risked widening a civil war that already has dragged on for 1½ years and killed some 20,000 people, according to activists. It is widely thought that Syria possesses extensive chemical and biological weapon stockpiles, and it has threatened to use them if the country comes under foreign attack.

“That’s an issue that doesn’t just concern Syria. It concerns our close allies in the region, including Israel. It concerns us,” Obama said, underscoring that the U.S. wouldn’t accept the threat of weapons of mass destruction from Syrian President Bashar Assad’s government, rebels fighting the government, or militant groups aiding either side. “We cannot have a situation where chemical or biological weapons are falling into the hands of the wrong people.”  http://newyork.newsday.com/news/nation/obama-syria-chemical-weapons-red-line-for-u-s-1.3917233

If the USA does get involved in direct military intervention against Syria, it may not go as well for the USA, as for example, Libya has thus far seemed to.  The world is more dangerous than many Americans truly realize.

As regular readers of this new page are aware, I have been warning since last year that Russia does not need Syria as much as Syria needs it. Russia is attempting to have a diplomatic role here–and partially has supported Syria because of how it has felt betrayed by the West over Libya.

The Bible shows that Syria’s capital city Damascus (Isaiah 7:8) will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1). Whether this will happen because of internal civil war or an attack involving Israel and possibly the USA remains to be seen–it is not likely to directly involve Russia.  Syria’s Assad remains a close ally to Iran and Iran keeps taking steps that may provoke a regional (with Israel) or larger war (the USA itself could sustain damage). But whether it is involved in a war involving Israel or not, eventually, Damascus has to be destroyed, and probably relatively soon.

What may happen is a regional war, that somewhat gets out of control and may involve Syria (Syria could also change because of its own internal war) and others (including possibly many based in Lebanon) beyond Iran and Israel, is something I have warned could happen for some time now and really could be a factor that ultimately leads to the fulfillment of Daniel 9:27.

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

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? 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?
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.
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?
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?

Noynoy Aquino

COGwriter

Noynoy Aquino, the President of the Philippines, lost his Secretary of the Interior, in a recent plane crash there, which also involved former WCG/GCI Pastor Jessup Bahinting:

22 August 2012

After three days of a deep sea search in Masbate, President Aquino took home the remains of Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, fulfilling a promise to his grief-stricken family.

Robredo’s flag-draped coffin was flown to Naga City yesterday with plans set in motion for a state funeral.

Retrieval operations continue for Cebu pilot Capt. Jessup Bajinting and his Nepalese co-pilot Kshitiz Chan.  http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/255352/president-escorts-body-of-robredo-to-naga-search-for-plane-and-pilots-ends-in-sunken-plane-at-depth-of-180-feet?ModPagespeed=noscript

22 August 2012

The family of Captain Jessup Bahinting grieved upon learning that the wreckage of the aircraft that Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo took has been found in the seawaters off Masbate.

But Bahinting’s wife, Margarita, has accepted her husband’s fate. Bahinting was the pilot of the ill-fated plane.

Express your condolences to DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo’s family…

Margarita, a member of the Grace Communion International (GCI), said her faith gave her strength and eased the pain of her loss.

GCI is a Christian group where Jessup was a pastor and supervisor for the Visayas.  http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2012/08/22/pilot-s-wife-says-she-has-accepted-husband-s-fate-238720

Being good friends, Capt. Jessup Bahinting couldn’t refuse a request by Interior and Local Governments Secretary Jesse Robredo for a special afternoon flight to Naga City last Saturday…Before starting their aviation business, the Bahintings lived in Cagayan de Oro from the early 1980s to 1991 where he worked full-time as a church pastor of the Worldwide Church of God (WCG). http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/253672/robredo-asked-for-naga-flight-to-attend-childs-awarding-rites?ModPagespeed=noscript

The old Worldwide Church of God (WCG) made a series of doctrinal compromises in the late 1980s and 1990s under the leadership of Joseph Tkach.  The group that did that, later (after his death) renamed their church Grace Communion International (GCI).  Those that did not accept the doctrinal heresies of the Tkach-WCG left and formed many Church of  God (COG) groups.

GCI itself is now a Protestant group, yet the genuine Church of God is not Protestant as it preceded the formation of not only the Protestant movement, but that of the Roman Catholic Church of Rome.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Islands and Bible Prophecy What’s ahead for islands? What does the Bible prophesy about them?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Asian? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
Did Early Christians Believe that Humans Possessed Immortality? What does John 3:16, and other writings, tell us? Did a doctrine kept adopted from paganism?
Born-Again originally meant being born at the resurrection, not at the time of conversion.
What Did Early Christians Understand About the Resurrection? Is there more than one future resurrection? Did early Christians teach a physical resurrection? Did early Christians teach three resurrections?
6. The Philadelphia Church Era was predominant circa 1933 A.D. to 1986 A.D. The old Radio Church of God and old Worldwide Church of God, now basically the most faithful in the Church of God.
7. The Laodicean Church Era has been predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. These are non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG.
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?
News Articles Related to Church History This link is to articles on Church history that were once published on the COG News Page.
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. Is telling the truth about the early church citing Catholic accepted sources anti-Catholic? 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?
Hope of Salvation: How the Genuine Church of God differ from most Protestants How the real Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background.

COGwriter

The latest co-worker letter from LCG’s Dr. Meredith arrived electronically today.  It contained the following:

From all indications, a big war is soon to get underway in the Middle East! For Iran continues to rapidly develop the capacity to produce nuclear weapons. Iran is the sworn enemy of Israel and of the United States. The Iranians continue to hold anti-American rallies in their major cities, burn American flags, curse our leaders and prepare for war. Obviously, military action may soon get underway. For Iran has repeatedly threatened to annihilate Israel and to close the Strait of Hormuz if we retaliate.

So—even if America wishes to do nothing—the state of Israel will be forced to protect itself from being annihilated! And in what looks very much like a “final warning,” the Israeli Ambassador to the United States wrote these words in a recent Wall Street Journal column: “Iran now has amassed roughly 225 pounds of 20% uranium and 11,000 pounds of 3.5%, sufficient for almost five nuclear bombs…. A combination of truly crippling sanctions and a credible military threat—a threat that the ayatollahs still do not believe today—may yet convince Iran to relinquish its nuclear dreams. But time is dwindling and, with each passing day, the lives of eight million Israelis grow increasingly imperiled. The window that opened 20 years ago is now almost shut” (August 7, 2012).

Meanwhile, what many have called the worst drought since the “Dust Bowl” years of the 1930s continues to devastate vast portions of America’s Midwest and Southwest. Reuters news service recently reported: “Drought is covering 97% of the high plains and 86% of the entire Midwest in the U.S. Conditions in the Midwest, which produces roughly three-quarters of the corn and soybean crops in the world’s largest producer and exporter, worsened despite the first measurable rainfall in a month in some areas” (July 26, 2012). “Surging animal feed prices [mainly corn]—the biggest input costs for livestock producers—also led some farmers to cull their herds in the main cattle producing region of the Plains” (ibid.). “Cattlemen are selling animals they can’t graze or afford to buy feed for… The number of cattle in the U.S. has been dropping for years. The Agriculture Department says the nation’s cattle inventory is the smallest since the agency began a July count in 1973” (Associated Press, July 24, 2012).

Thousands of years ago, God warned of the sobering consequences of rejecting Him and His commandments. “I will make your heavens like iron and your earth like bronze. And your strength shall be spent in vain; for your land shall not yield its produce…” (Leviticus 26:19-20). “Therefore the land will mourn; and everyone who dwells there will waste away with the beasts of the field…” (Hosea 4:3). God wants to bless those He created in His image, but disobedience forces Him to remove His blessings and protection (verses 1-7). God does control the weather and yearns for His people to return to Him so that He can once again bless them with “rain in due season” (Leviticus 26:1-4, KJV). For more information on extreme weather conditions, review our insightful booklet, Who Controls the Weather?

Will the United States, Canada, Britain and Australia truly repent and turn to the God of the Bible before more devastating droughts, floods, earthquakes and other natural catastrophes strike? Will we repent of what God Almighty calls the “vile passions” of homosexuality, when “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. 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” (Romans 1:26-28)?

Dear brethren and friends, when even the religious and political leaders of our peoples increasingly sanction these vile, reprehensible practices, how long until Almighty God says “Enough”? God is the One who “sets up kings” and who takes them down. When it is necessary to fulfill His purpose, the Creator God can and does intervene in the affairs of men and nations. The coming Middle East War will undoubtedly speed up the coming of the final Arab Confederacy which will produce the “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40). Likewise, as this Arab power gains strength, this will provoke the coming “Beast Power” with ten “kings” in Europe who will “give” their power to one supreme geopolitical leader (Revelation 17:9-13).

The increasing loss of power and prestige of the American and British-descended nations will pave the way for this coming Super Leader to arise in Europe. America’s own severe financial difficulties plus the coming horrific drought and famine, along with alternating floods and hurricanes and massive disease epidemics,will severely weaken our peoples and make it much easier for the coming Beast Power to conquer us and our allies (Jeremiah 30:4-7). God Almighty commands His true servants: “Cry aloud, spare not; lift up your voice like a trumpet; tell My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins” (Isaiah 58:1)…

All of us in this Work of the living God are part of a “team” which the Creator is using to warn the British-descended and American peoples, especially, of the coming Great Tribulation. In Ezekiel 33:1-7, the Eternal tells those of us who understand that we are to be a “watchman” when we see the sword of God’s wrath coming upon the land. We are to warn our peoples of what is ahead so they can understand and repent. God warns us, “But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet, and the people are not warned, and the sword comes and takes any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood I will require at the watchman’s hand” (v. 6). May God help all of you to understand! Time is short. We are certainly approaching the “final hour” before the traumatic end-time events fully get underway.

National repentance is the only hope now for the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

They are all in at least relative decline, despite the appearance of prosperity in their lands.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Canada in Prophecy: What Does Bible Prophecy, Catholic Prophecy, and other Predictions Suggest About the Future of Canada? There are prophecies that suggest involvement with Canada. And many are not positive about its future.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
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?
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?
LCG: Pornography, Who’s Tempting Whom? This is some information about the prevalence and dangers of pornography from the Living Church of God.
CG7 on Pornography This is an article excerpt from the Church of God, 7th Day-Denver about pornography.
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?
LCG: Homosexuals Gaining Ground “Same-sex marriage” is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality?
Is American Football Evil? Is the most popular spectator sport in the USA something that Christians should watch? What do the Bible and early writings show?
Is Smoking a Sin? What does the Bible teach? What have COG leaders written? Can smokers change?
Binge Alcohol Drinking and the Bible Many college students and others overindulge in alcohol. Are there health risks? What does the Bible teach?
Obesity and Prophecy Does the Bible warn about the consequences of being obese? Is overeating dangerous? Is gluttony condemned?
What is the Gospel? True religion should be based upon the true gospel. What are some of the different gospels and where did they come from? Do you believe the true or a false gospel?
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 Do You Mean — Repentance? Do you know what repentance is? Have you truly repented? Repented of what? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject.

COGwriter

A new poll came out on perceptions of Obama’s faith:

21 August 2012

Hank Williams Jr. just made it pretty clear which presidential candidate he’ll be voting for come November…After finishing the song, “We Don’t Apologize For America,” the audience started chanting “USA, USA…” According to the Des Moines Register, Williams then told the crowd, “We’ve got a Muslim president who hates farming, hates the military, hates the U.S. and we hate him!”  http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-31749_162-57497290-10391698/hank-williams-jr-obama-is-muslim-who-hates-the-u.s./

While there are reasons to question Barack Obama’s declared faith, it is totally wrong to declared “we hate him” as Hank Williams Jr. reportedly did.  We are to love one another (Romans 13:8), not hate (Leviticus 19:17).  And whether or not one supports the positions of the USA president, one should pray for him (1 Timothy 2:1-3).  Hank Williams Jr. should publicly apologize for what he stated.

As far as Barack Obama himself, notice something that came out in the news today:

President Barack Obama says it’s not his job to defend his Christian faith against doubters who suspect he’s Muslim. His GOP challenger, Mitt Romney, says religion is “integral” to his life, even as often he avoids mentioning his Mormon faith by name.

In interviews published Tuesday by Cathedral Age, the magazine of the Washington National Cathedral, the candidates responded in writing to nine questions about their faith…

Asked about people who question the sincerity of his faith, Obama responded: “You know, there’s not much I can do about it. I have a job to do as president, and that does not involve convincing folks that my faith in Jesus is legitimate and real.”  http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/lifestyle/54738269-80/faith-romney-obama-religion.html.csp

Despite his statements, of course, many have wondered, “Is Barack Obama Muslim?”

And my answer has long been no, not if one needs to proclaim Islam to be one. Barack Obama’s publicly proclaimed religion is not Islam. He also does not pray five times per day at the prescribed times or do many of the things that practicing Muslims actually do (I will not attempt to go into what, if any, religion, is truly in his heart as that is not something that is provable).

Notice what his old “Fight the Smears” website claimed:

The Truth About Barack’s Faith

Barack Obama is a committed Christian. He was sworn into the Senate on his family Bible. He has regularly attended church with his wife and daughters for years.

But shameful, shadowy attackers have been lying about Barack’s religion, claiming he is a Muslim instead of a committed Christian.(http://fightthesmears.com/articles/3/baracksfaith viewed 11/29/08)

While I do not believe that he is committed to true Christianity, Barack Obama does not seem to be a secret Muslim. Hence, in that sense I do not believe he will fit prophecies that indicate that a committed Muslim will do anything. Yet, however, some have argued that since his father was considered as a Muslim, that Barack Obama is considered to be one too by birth, even if he never embraced Islam. Thus, in that sense he may be considered as some as a Muslim (there is a sort of similar concept within Catholicism as well).

Furthermore, notice the following news item:

Barack Obama joined Muslim prayers at school, teacher says

The Australian – Nov 8, 2010

AS a schoolboy in Jakarta, Barack Obama attended Muslim prayer sessions with his classmates against the wishes of his mother. The US President’s former grade three teacher said that Mr Obama – who was known as “Barry” when he attended the Menteng One school in Jakarta – studied the Koran and went to classes on Islam, despite the objections of Ann Dunham, a Catholic. (The Times.

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/barack-obama-joined-muslim-prayers-at-school-teacher-says/story-e6frg6so-1225949239614)

Whether he attended prayer sessions to learn about Islam or to fit in, apparently Barack Obama was more involved in Islam that his mother wanted him to be.

Is Barack Obama a Muslim sympathizer?

The answer to that question is that he seems to be. Since he did grow up in Muslim Indonesia and had more early Muslim contacts than anyone else ever elected as President of the United States, he would probably have more reasons than most U.S. presidents to have sympathy for Muslim perspectives. Here is some of what Barack Obama’s “Fight the Smears” website quotes about this:

Newsweek…Obama’s only personal contact with Islam came as a boy when he moved to Jakarta, Indonesia, with a stepfather who mixed his Islam with Hindu and Animist traditions…

Boston Globe…His Kenyan paternal grandfather and Indonesian stepfather were Muslim…

Thus, while the selected quotes seem to have been intended by the Obama campaign to minimize his ties to Islam, Barack Obama had more early ties to Islam than any ever elected to becoming President of the United States. He also repeated his full name, Barack Hussein Obama, the 2 times I heard him on his inauguration as USA president (seemingly emphasizing the common Islamic name “Hussein”).

President Obama’s support of the Muslim Brotherhood (see Obama Administration supporting objectives of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt) is a major concern as the goal of that group is to have an Islamic caliphate from Spain to Indonesia.  This is not something a real Christian would think should be supported. I am not saying that he is a Muslim, but his approach towards them differs than all past USA presidents.

And of course, Barack Obama has made public gestures supportive of Islam (like participating in Ramadan-related activities) and the Hindu faith (he carries and monkey-god charm and in November 2010 danced at a Diwali celebration). This suggests that he is neither Muslim or Christian as one true to either of those faiths would not carry a pagan deity as a good-luck charm (see also Barack Obama Carries Hindu Monkey God).

What faith is Barack Obama?

Barack Obama seems to be a supporter of a Constantinian religion (comes out of the Greco-Roman tradition, not the real Church of God) which claims Christ. Yet, he does not seem to be highly involved with it. For example, in the first few weeks after the election, he did not attend any church service according to an AP story (Obama skips church, heads to gym. November 23, 2008). He ended up not joining any church, but makes public church appearances on occasion (a couple times a year).  Whether he makes the public appearances to give the impression he is Christian or this is what he believes is not clear to me.

However, because his religion is of the Constantinian variety, Barack Obama will likely not understand end-time prophecies and this will lead him to be more accommodating to the rise of the Beast than one who understands end-time prophecy would likely be.

While the secular media believes that Barack Obama is Christian, because he claims he is, the biblical definition of a Christian is one who has God’s spirit. True Christians have the Holy Spirit of God:

9 But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. 10 And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you (Romans 8:9-11).

True Christians have repented of their sins, accepted Christ, have been properly baptized, strive to live as Christ did, and possess God’s Holy Spirit (Acts 2:39; Romans 8:9-11). While Barack Obama claims to have accepted Christ, his actions and policy statements appear to be in conflict with a variety of biblical principles.

Here are some reasons that thinking, biblically-oriented Catholics and Protestants, may conclude Barack Obama is not a real Christian:

1. He stopped regularly attending outside church services after becoming elected President of the United States (except for some public events; cf. Matthew 23:6-7)–so his sincerity is doubted.
2. He has pushed the homosexual agenda. “Though President Obama opposed gay marriage during the 2008 election” (http://www.theatlanticwire.com/national/2012/02/five-best-tuesday-columns/48958/) he now supports and advocates it (see also Obama Announces He Wants to Repeal Defense of Marriage Act and Increase Debt).
3. One of his first acts after taking office was to increase international funding for abortions. He makes various public statements supporting abortion (notice, for example, Obama’s Latest Defense of Abortion).
4. On an international trip, he referred to the Muslim book as “the Holy Quran.” Real Christians do not consider the Quran as holy.
5. While in office, he attended the first “feeding” for Ramadan at least one year. Christians are not supposed to observe holy days of other religions.
6. He has been found to carry a Hindu monkey god (see Barack Obama Carries Hindu Monkey God). No Christian intentionally carries around pagan idols.
7. His initial, fairly clear sounding support, for the “ground-zero” mosque.
8. His two US Supreme Court appointees are both believed to be supporters of on-demand abortion.
9. He seems to support “freedom of worship” as opposed to “freedom of religion” (Obama Administration Changing Freedom of Religion?). This has carried forward in his stance on forcing the paying for various forms of contraception, including abortive pills, as he seems to feel that his form of morality should trump those who have religious beliefs to the contrary. And even though the beliefs of those in the genuine Church of God on family planning are closer to those held by the Eastern Orthodox, than Roman, Catholics, I believe that the President has often crossed a line that should concern all who profess Christ.
10. He seems to claim that political forms of covetousness are consistent with his “Christian Faith” values (see Obama Claims His Economic Policies are Linked to His ‘Christian Faith’).
11. He seems to advocate class warfare (see Obama: ‘You Can Call this Class Warfare‘).
12. He has increased the regulatory burden on some Americans excessively (cf. Jesus’ warnings Matthew 23:4-5).

We in the real Church of God could add many other items to the above list, but the dozen reasons above should give all concerns about Barack Obama’s faith.

It is basically because Barack Obama’s own statements and practices that have caused many to think he not a real Christian. Furthermore, his relatively close relationships with Muslims (having a Muslim father/grandfather and growing up in predominantly Muslim Indonesia) in his early years, his statements in Cairo and elsewhere, and his distancing himself from the State of Israel, etc. have had some wonder if he had remained a Muslim despite public denials.

Those who are not biblically-oriented, those who do not believe that they have to live their lives by what the Bible says, etc. seem confused, that many doubt the President’s claimed faith.

But irrespective of what faith he may actually hold, it seems that his policies may lead to greater cooperation between the Arabic and non-Arabic Muslim nations which at some point in time must end up with a leader (which the Shiites call a Mahdi) that the Bible shows will be the Future King of the South.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Barack Obama Carries Hindu Monkey God Unlike some of the odd stories about Barack Obama, this one is apparently true.
What Did the Early Church Teach About Idols and Icons? Did Catholic and Orthodox “saints” endorse or condemn idols and icons for Christians?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? This article has eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. It includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article at the COGwriter website on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled since he is to be the USA president?
COGwriter Position on Other Churches and Religions What is the fate of those who do not know Christ? What about those who profess Christ outside the Church of God?
Do You Practice Mithraism? Many practices and doctrines that mainstream so-called Christian groups have are the same or similar to those of the sun-god Mithras. Do you follow Mithraism combined with the Bible or original Christianity?
Hope of Salvation: How the Genuine Church of God differ from most Protestants How the real Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background.
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?
Abortion, the Bible, and a Woman’s Right to Choose Do you know what the Bible teaches on this?