Church of God News

COGwriter

The biblical Fall Holy Day season is just about upon us. At sunset Sunday, September 16th, 2012 is the first day of Tishri in the biblical calendar. That will be begin what most in the Church of God refer to as the Feast of Trumpets and what the Jews tend to call Rosh Hashanah.

Was this, and other Holy Days, kept by early Christians?

Yes, and like a lot of evidence about the most faithful Christians, some of the proof of this is related to someone who did not care for them.

Over 1600 years ago, God’s Holy Days were condemned by a racist, John Chrysostom, who is now considered to be a Catholic and Orthodox saint and “doctor of the church”.  A few years ago, the Protestant Christianity Today named John Chrysostom the person of the week and Benedict XVI praised (see Christianity Todays’ “Person of the Week”).

Here is what their John Chrysostom publicly preached in 387 A.D.:

The festivals of the pitiful and miserable Jews are soon to march upon us one after the other and in quick succession: the feast of Trumpets, the feast of Tabernacles, the fasts. There are many in our ranks who say they think as we do. Yet some of these are going to watch the festivals and others will join the Jews in keeping their feasts and observing their fasts. I wish to drive this perverse custom from the Church right now…If the Jewish ceremonies are venerable and great, ours are lies…Does God hate their festivals and do you share in them? He did not say this or that festival, but all of them together. (John Chrysostom. Homily I Against the Jews I:5;VI:5;VII:2. Preached at Antioch, Syria in the Fall of 387 AD. Medieval Sourcebook: Saint John Chrysostom (c.347-407) : Eight Homilies Against the Jews. Fordham University. http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/source/chrysostom-jews6.html 12/10/05).

The wicked and unclean fast of the Jews is now at our doors. Thought it is a fast, do not wonder that I have called it unclean…But now that the devil summons your wives to the feast of the Trumpets and they turn a ready ear to this call, you do not restrain them. You let them entangle themselves in accusations of ungodliness, you let them be dragged off into licentious ways. (John Chrysostom. Homily II Against the Jews I:1; III:4. Preached at Antioch, Syria on Sunday, September 5, 387 A.D.).

So also the Law fixed the feast of Tabernacles (John Chrysostom. Homily IV Against the Jews IV:3. Catholic Christians of Antioch Turning to Sabbath and The New Moon Day and Other Holy Days. 387 A.D.).

John Chrysostom preached against the Fall holy days, because some who professed Christ were observing them. Specifically he mentioned the Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement (Fasts above), and the Feast of Tabernacles. It is interesting to note that John Chrysostom must have realized that the second century church kept Passover the same time as the Jews did (this was even true in the early second century in Rome). And that the Catholic Church still kept Pentecost. Thus by preaching what he did, John Chrysostom is preaching against his own church as the Roman and Orthodox Catholics claim to keep both Passover (though on a different date, and with a different name) and Pentecost–as both of those festivals would be part of “all of them together.”

It should be noted that the basic reason that John Chrysostom preached against the holy days was due to antisemitism. In demonstrates this in his Homily Against the Jews (of which there are at least eight of) as he calls the Jews by a variety of names. Here are a few of his statements:

But do not be surprised that I called the Jews pitiable. They really are pitiable and miserable (I:II:1).

So the godlessness of the Jews and the pagans is on a par. But the Jews practice a deceit which is more dangerous (I:VI:4).

Do you see that demons dwell in their souls and that these demons are more dangerous than the ones of old? (I:VI:7).

Since it is against the Jews that I wish to draw up my battle line, let me extend my instruction further. Let me show that, by fasting now, the Jews dishonor the law and trample underfoot God’s commands because they are always doing everything contrary to his decrees. When God wished them to fast, they got fat and flabby (VI:IV:2).

Indeed, the fasting of the Jews, which is more disgraceful than any drunkenness, is over and gone (VIII:I:5).

But the facts are that the Holy Days were kept by Jesus, the New Testament Church, and those faithful to their teachings. And the other fact is that no where in the Bible do we see hatred against the Jews. Jesus taught we were to love our neighbor (and most the of “neighbors” He was then talking to were Jewish).

Furthermore, the New Testament calls one of the so-called “Jewish” holy days “great.”  Notice the following from both a Protestant and a Catholic translation:

On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out (John 7:37, NKJV)

And in the last, the great day of the festivity JESUS stood, and cried (John 7:37, Rheims New Testament).

So who is right?

Those who follow Jesus’ practices or those who condemn them?

Recall that John Chrysostum, in this case, somewhat correctly stated,

“If the Jewish ceremonies are venerable and great, ours are lies.“

So which days should be observed? Which have a “great day” according to the Bible? Which days are lies? (John Chrysostom supported days with pagan ties such as Christmas and Easter.)

Perhaps it might be helpful to realize that Catholics do admit that early Christians did observe the Feast of Tabernacles:

St. Jerome (PL 25, 1529 & 1536-7) speaking of how the Judaeo-Christians celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles…tells us that they gave the feast a millenarian significance (Bagatti, Bellarmino. Translated by Eugene Hoade. The Church from the Circumcision. Nihil obstat: Marcus Adinolfi. Imprimi potest: Herminius Roncari. Imprimatur: +Albertus Gori, die 26 Junii 1970. Franciscan Printing Press, Jerusalem, p.202).

Those of us faithful in the genuine Church of God who are able, keep the Feast of Tabernacles and believe that it foreshadows the coming millennium.

Notice also that the Catholic, Orthodox, and Church of God Saint Polycarp of Smyrna kept the Fall Holy Days:

I will give the narration in order, thus coming down to the history of the blessed Polycarp…

So also he pursued the reading of the Scriptures from childhood to old age, himself reading in church; and he recommended it to others, saying that the reading of the law and the prophets was the forerunner of grace, preparing and making straight the ways of the Lord, that is the hearts, which are like tablets whereon certain harsh beliefs and conceptions that were written before perfect knowledge came, are through the inculcation of the Old Testament, and the correct interpretation following thereupon, first smoothed and levelled, that, when the Holy Spirit comes as a pen, the grace and joy of the voice of the Gospel and of the doctrine of the immortal and heavenly Christ may be inscribed on them. And he said that they could not otherwise receive the impression of the seal which is given by baptism and engrave and exhibit the form conveyed in it, unless the wax were first softened and filled the deep parts. So also he thought that the hearts of the hearers ought to be softened and yield to the impress of the Word. For he said that it unfolded and opened, like closed doors, the minds of recent comers; and accordingly the prophet was bidden by God, Cry out mightily and spare not, Raise thy voice as a trumpet. What must one say, when even He that was gentler than all men so appeals and cries out at the feast of Tabernacles? For it is written; And on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried saying, If any man thirsteth, let him come to Me and drink. (Pionius, Life of Polycarp (1889) from J. B. Lightfoot, The Apostolic Fathers, vol. 3.2, pp.488-506.)

Polycarp, according to the above, seems to have endorsed the Fall Holy Day season which begins with the Feast of Trumpets, includes the Feast of Tabernacles, and ends on The Last Great Day. And while the Day of Atonement was not specifically mentioned above, it was mentioned in the Book of Acts, where it is referred to as the Fast (Acts 27:9).

During the Middle Ages the fall holidays were observed, though records are limited.

Notice the following report:

Under the name of Passagini, we have the clearest sort of statement that these people, about 1200, observed the whole Old Testament law, including the Sabbath and FESTIVALS! People called Cathars at Cologne, Germany, kept a fall festival, called “Malilosa”, even before Waldo began to preach. Compare this unexplained name with Hebrew “melilah” (a harvested ear of grain — Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance) and the Biblical title “Feast of Ingathering” (Ex. 23:16). How much more we might have known about these Middle Ages’ Feasts of Tabernacles had not the Inquisitors so zealously burned the records! The three-part division of tithes paid the Waldensian Church is significant. Even in the 1500’s the same division continued. “The money given us by the people is carried to the aforesaid general council, and is delivered in the presence of all, and there it is received by the most ancients (the elders), and part thereof is given to those that are wayfaring men, according to their necessities, and part unto the poor” (George Morel, Waldensian elder, quoted by Lennard, “History of the Waldenses”). 1. Compare this practice with Num. 18:21 and Deut. 14:22-25, 28-29. Isn’t it exactly what the Bible commands?… Most authors have ASSUMED the “wayfaring men” were the traveling “barbel.” But THEIR expenses would have been paid from the money given the elders, at EVERY time of year, for the direct conduct of the Work — “first” tithe and offerings. Notice that in Numbers 18:21. What Morel then mentions is a “second” tithe, for those traveling to and from the festivals — wayfaring men; and following it, the “third” to the poor. See the explanation in Deut. 14. Feast goers who had more “second tithe” than they needed shared their excess with those who had need, even as they do today! (LESSON 51 (1968) AMBASSADOR COLLEGE BIBLE CORRESPONDENCE COURSE “And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place …” Rev. 12:6).

Furthermore, Sabbath-keepers in Transylvania in the 1500s and probably later kept the Fall Holy Days such as the Day of Atonement and the Feast of Trumpets (called Day of Remembrance below):

The Sabbatarians viewed themselves as converted Gentiles..They held to the biblical holidays…The Day of Atonement was a day of fasting, although they emphasized that pentinence is more easily acheived by a peaceful and quiet meditation on the law and one’s life than by fasting. The Day of Remembrance (New Year, which they celebrated in the Fall of the year) was the day on which they thanked God especially for the creation of the universe. There is no mention of circumcision, so it is unlikely that they practiced circumcision (Liechty D. Sabbatarianism in the Sixteenth Century. Andrews University Press, Berrien Springs (MI), 1993, pp. 61-62).

And the Fall Holidays are still observed into the 21sth century by many Sabbath-keeping Church of God groups.

The biblical Holy Days (both Spring and Fall) were kept by early, faithful Christians, and this is clear from both scripture and early church records.  And there is a scattering of later records showing that they have been kept by some professors of Christ throughout history.

The first Holy Day this Fall season is the Feast of Trumpets (called Rosh Hashanah by the Jews) which begin September 16th, 2012 at sunset until sunset September 17th.

The second Holy Day this Fall season is the Day of Atonement (called Yom Kippur by the Jews) which begin September 25th, 2012 at sunset until sunset September 26th.

The seven day Feast of Tabernacles begins at sunset September 30th, continues until sunset October 7th, and is immediately followed by the Last Great Day, which ends October 8th, 2012 at sunset. Most people travel to attend the Feast of Tabernacles (here is a link to LCG 2012 Feast of Tabernacles’ Information. This has limited information on many Feast of Tabernacles locations for this Fall feast.)

Then, other than the weekly Sabbaths, there are no Holy Days until Passover in the Spring.

The early, faithful, Christians kept what many now refer to as “Jewish” holidays. Jesus, Paul, and the apostles did. They were part of “the faith once for all delivered unto the saints” (Jude 4).

Perhaps you should look into them more?

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Did Early Christians Observe the Fall Holy Days? Did they? Did Jesus? Did the Apostle Paul? Should you?
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.
The Book of Life and the Feast of Trumpets? Are they related? Is so how? If not, where not?
The Day of Atonement–Its Christian Significance The Jews call it Yom Kippur, Christians “The Day of Atonement”. Does it have any relevance for Christians today?
The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians? Is this pilgrimage holy day still valid? Does it teach anything relevant for today’s Christians?
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?
Holy Day Calendar This is a listing of the biblical holy days through 2017, with their Roman calendar dates. They are really hard to observe if you do not know when they occur 🙂
Michael’s Feasts and Fasts Quiz 15 questions, amusing wrong answer screens.
Michael’s Day of Atonement Quiz Another free on-line Bible quiz by my son Michael.
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?

COGwriter

The USA and UK are facing serious financial concerns and some are starting to really notice:

UK banks could be shut down or forced into bail-outs by Brussels

Banks in London could be shut down or forced into taxpayer-funded bail-outs against the wishes of the British authorities under controversial “banking union” proposals from Brussels, it can be disclosed.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/banksandfinance/9536997/UK-banks-could-be-shut-down-or-forced-into-bail-outs-by-Brussels.html

America’s hold on AAA rating risks collapse next year

America’s hold on a AAA rating will collapse next year unless Washington takes measures to rein in the government’s debt, Moody’s has warned.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/banksandfinance/9535924/Americas-hold-on-AAA-rating-risks-collapse-next-year.html

Germany Says ‘Great Uncertainty’ About US Debt 9/11/12

 German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble questioned on Tuesday how the United States could deal with its high levels of government debt after November’s presidential election.

http://www.cnbc.com/id/48982485

For the past couple of centuries, the UK and/or the USA have essentially been the head of the old world order. The Bible shows that a curse to come would to become the tail:

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. 46 And they shall be upon you for a sign and a wonder, and on your descendants forever.  (Deuteronomy 28:43-46)

Some of this is starting to happen.  Most in the world, including the world of the primarily Anglo-nations, do not realize what will happen if they are no longer on top.  Real severe economic problems, such as lack of food, is coming to the Anglo-descended nations (cf. Matthew 24:7-8; Jeremiah 30:7).

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.  And others are starting to truly notice.

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?
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?
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?
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?
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.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about Mitt Romney. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link:  Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Mitt Romney?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon’s Free Reader Apps.  After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition.)

COGwriter

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants the USA to become more involved in taking clearer action regarding Iran:

September 11, 2012

Israel is sounding increasingly agitated over what it views as American dithering with economic sanctions too weak to force Iran to end its suspected drive toward nuclear weapons.

In a clear message aimed at the White House, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday criticized what he said was the world’s failure to spell out what would provoke a U.S.-led military strike against Iranian nuclear facilities. The comments came in response to U.S. refusals in recent days to set “red lines” for Tehran.

With his strong words, Netanyahu is taking a bold gamble. He clearly hopes to rattle the U.S. into doing more, for fear that Israel might otherwise soon attack Iran on its own. But he risks antagonizing President Barack Obama during a re-election campaign and straining relations with Israel’s closest and most important ally. http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/ap-exclusive-intelligence-iran-nuke-work-17210283#.UE-gna7l8is

September 11, 2012

(Reuters) – The White House has rejected a request by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to meet President Barak Obama in the United States this month, an Israeli official said on Tuesday, after a row erupted between the allies over Iran’s nuclear programme…The website of Israel’s daily newspaper Haaretz called his words “an unprecedented verbal attack on the U.S. government”.

Iran makes no secret of its hostility to Israel, widely assumed to be the region’s only nuclear-armed power, but says its nuclear programme is purely peaceful.  http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/11/us-israel-iran-netanyahu-idUSBRE88A10B20120911

“The world tells Israel, `Wait. There’s still time,’” Netanyahu said Tuesday, according to The Associated Press. “And I say: `Wait for what? Wait until when?’ Those in the international community who refuse to put red lines before Iran don’t have a moral right to place a red light before Israel.”  http://washington.cbslocal.com/2012/09/11/netanyahu-to-obama-wait-for-what-wait-until-when/

I still believe that the Israeli Prime Minister prefers to have an attack against Iran prior to the November 2012 US presidential election as he suspects that is the best way to pressure the USA to support his plans. He may be right about that.

Iran itself has been taking defensive steps as many concerned there that Israel intends to attack (see TW: Iran Preparing its Defenses).

Wars do not always go as planned, for either side (or their allies).  Wars kill and destroy.

P.S.  The following was also in the news late today:

‘Brotherhood turning Middle East into Islamist bloc’

http://www.jpost.com/DiplomacyAndPolitics/Article.aspx?ID=284593&R=R1

This is of related interest as I do not believe that the Shi’ite Iranians will lead the final King of the South confederation (Daniel 11:40-43), but that a Sunni group like the Muslim Brotherhood will.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012 or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What is the “beginning of sorrows”? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?
Is There 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?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about Mitt Romney. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link:  Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Mitt Romney?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon’s Free Reader Apps.  After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition.)

United Airlines’ Flight 175 Hitting South Tower, 9/11/2001

COGwriter

In a commentary, LCG’s William (Bill) Bowmer wrote the following:

Before the world-changing events of 9/11/2001, Americans’ exposure to terrorism was mostly secondhand–perhaps watching video images of a bombed-out Oklahoma City building in April 1995, or reading newspaper stories of a botched World Trade Center bombing in February 1993. Millions, however, on that momentous Tuesday morning of September 11, were watching live television coverage of one burning skyscraper, when another jet suddenly appeared–and then crashed into the second WTC tower!

.

In one gut-wrenching moment on live television, viewers understood that the two impacts were not a coincidence—and they saw just how vulnerable their nation had become to terrorist attacks. Four commercial jet aircraft had been hijacked and sent on suicide missions, laying waste to prominent symbols of wealth and power in the United States. Many Americans for the first time saw firsthand the impact of God’s warning to a disobedient nation, “I will even appoint terror over you… I will break the pride of your power” (Leviticus 26:16, 19).

Some, in hearing about 9/11, found solace in reports of heroic acts by United Airlines Flight 93 passenger Todd Beamer, New York Fire Department chaplain Mychal Judge, and many others whose bravery went almost unnoticed. Others, however, typifying post-Watergate distrust of the “official story,” have continued to offer mutually conflicting conspiracy theories in which villains of all sorts abound.

And what of the “War on Terror” declared by U.S. President George W. Bush? Earlier this year, U.S. Navy SEALs in Afghanistan proudly proclaimed the death of Osama bin Laden, yet the West after a decade seems unable to win a decisive war against ragtag crews of Muslim extremists. Meanwhile, at home, millions of Americans’ main experience of the war is literally at the hands of the Transportation Safety Administration, a powerful new government agency that treats every air traveler as a terrorist suspect, subjected to scanning and poking and prodding in what some derisively call “security theater.”

As we go about our daily business, we might at first not recognize just how much the world around us has changed since September 11, 2001. But consider the analogy of the frog and the pot of boiling water. If you drop a frog into the pot, it will jump right out, unable to bear the heat. But if you put the frog in a pot of lukewarm water, you can raise the temperature slowly—and soon you will boil the frog to death!

In September 2001, the U.S. unemployment rate had risen to 5.4 percent. Ten years later, that rate stands at 9.1 percent, with unofficial figures (including “discouraged workers” and the underemployed) at nearly double that number.

In September 2001, “same-sex marriage” was a fringe issue, firmly opposed by the vast majority of Americans. Ten years later, six U.S. states allow same-sex marriages to be performed, while another dozen states allow “civil unions” granting essentially all the privileges of marriage to same-sex couples.

In September 2001, U.S. public debt was just over $5.7 trillion. In September 2011 it stands just over $14.7 trillion.

Since September 2001, more than 14.5 million unborn babies have been aborted in the United States.

One could go on and on pointing out so many changes over the last decade—often occurring gradually, in small-but-steady increments, day by day. So, how is the temperature in our pot?

What is going to happen to the USA relatively soon will be so much worse than 9/11/2001 ever was. Do not wait until it is too late to respond spiritually, so that you may be protected physically.

Terrorism was prophesied:

14 ‘But if you do not obey Me, and do not observe all these commandments,
15 and if you despise My statutes, or if your soul abhors My judgments, so that you do not perform all My commandments, but break My covenant,
16 I also will do this to you:
I will even appoint terror over you, wasting disease and fever which shall consume the eyes and cause sorrow of heart.
And you shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it.
17 I will set My face against you, and you shall be defeated by your enemies.
Those who hate you shall reign over you, and you shall flee when no one pursues you. (Leviticus 26:14-17)

Without national repentance, the USA is doomed. Since the USA seems to be going more into sin nationally, that seems unlikely. Yet, personal repentance is still possible. Do you see the winds of change in the USA and elsewhere?

If so, what do you plan to do about it?

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Canada in Prophecy: What 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?
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.
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.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about Mitt Romney. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link:  Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Mitt Romney?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it, that should not be a problem as Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon’s Free Reader Apps.  After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition.)

Depiction of Levites Carrying the Ark of the Covenant

COGwriter

An interesting find related to the time of Solomon has been announced:

Jerusalem reservoir linked to King Solomon’s temple

Israeli archaeologists say it may have been used by pilgrims 2,600 years ago

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/48962218/ns/technology_and_science-science/

Cistern dated to First Temple period found in Jerusalem

As we get closer to the end that archeologists continue to find more evidence of biblical peoples, figures, and events.

Sept 6, 2012

Archaeologists have discovered a large public cistern from the time of the First Temple in Jerusalem’s Old City, the Israel Antiquities Authority said Thursday, offering new insight into the city’s water supply more than 2,500 years ago.  The First Temple was built around 950 BCE, according to the biblical record, and destroyed by a Babylonian army in 586 CE.

For some who have heard statements from pseudo-archaeologists that deny various biblical accounts and personalities, it may be helpful for them to realize that as time goes on, more and more archaeological evidence surfaces that supports the Bible.  http://www.timesofisrael.com/cistern-dated-to-first-temple-period-discovered-in-jerusalem/

As we get closer to the end that archeologists continue to find more evidence of biblical peoples, figures, and events.

For some who have heard statements from pseudo-archaeologists that deny various biblical accounts and personalities, it may be helpful for them to realize that as time goes on, more and more archaeological evidence surfaces that supports the Bible.

The Bible has proven trustworthy and will again.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

The Bible: Fact or Fiction? This is a booklet written by Douglas Winnail that answers if the Bible is just a collection of myths and legends or the inspired word of God.
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading.
Biblical Archaeology This is a website that has more information on biblical archeological as is sometimes known as the Bib Arch site.
Why is a Jewish Temple in Jerusalem Not Required? Although people like Timothy LaHaye teach a third Jewish temple is required, who is ‘the temple of God” in the New Testament? What does the Bible teach about the temple in the end-times?
Solomon’s TempleThis is a a 5 minute animated film that shows one artist’s understanding of the details about Solomon’s temple.

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

COGwriter

The USA is not like it used to be, and is facing severe problems because of its debts:

September 10, 2012

There is little doubt that the massive fiscal cliff we are now approaching threatens to cripple the U.S. economy and stock market and to drive gold and silver prices into the stratosphere.

It is, quite simply, the single greatest challenge the American Dream has ever faced. And it now threatens to destroy that dream for generations…

How Will You Pay YOUR $2.8 Million Debt?

Not only is this crisis real … not only has it been engineered by our leaders … it is far larger and far more terrifying than any politician, pundit or media outlet has even begun to report.

Last week, for instance, even as the Democratic National Convention convened, America’s official national debt soared past the $16 trillion mark.

I say “official” debt because even this enormous number represents only a tiny fraction of our nation’s actual indebtedness.

According to Laurence Kotlikoff, a senior economist with Reagan’s council of Economic Advisors, Washington’s total debts and obligations are now $222 trillion; more than $2.8 million for every family of four in the nation.

And that means the price you pay for Washington’s financial blundering is about to explode.

Taxes as Far as the Eye Can See …

The plain truth is that every dollar our leaders spend — whether on current expenses or to service its gargantuan debt — has to come from somewhere.

Some of those dollars are collected through direct taxation on companies, wage-earners and investors.

More are borrowed by the U.S. Treasury.  http://www.moneyandmarkets.com/saving-the-american-dream-50455

Serious changes, that the USA is not likely to implement, are what is needed.  It is not only USA commentators that are noticing some of this as the following points out:

Sept 9, 2012

IMF chief Lagarde highlights perils of US fiscal cliff

Christine Lagarde has said the “US fiscal cliff” is one of the greatest threats to the global economy.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/financialcrisis/9532222/IMF-chief-Lagarde-highlights-perils-of-US-fiscal-cliff.html

Frenchwoman Christine Lagarde made her comments while in Russia.  Foreigners are starting to notice more of the problems that the debt of the USA will cause.  But only partially.

Increasing the debt of the USA is much more dangerous than most realize. 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 not yet to the point that its creditors will rise up suddenly. I suspect it is several years from now. Yet, by failing to make the changes necessary, the USA is certainly setting itself up for sudden destruction.

Let’s 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 and trust perversity.

The Bible clearly warns that an indebted people (and the UK has possibly the highest per capita debt in the world, with the USA the highest total debt) will be destroyed by people whose language that they do not understand, and that the destruction will be fairly total:

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…47 “Because you did not serve the LORD your God with joy and gladness of heart, for the abundance of everything, 48 therefore you shall serve your enemies, whom the LORD will send against you, in hunger, in thirst, in nakedness, and in need of everything; and He will put a yoke of iron on your neck until He has destroyed you. 49 The LORD will bring a nation against you from afar, from the end of the earth, as swift as the eagle flies, a nation whose language you will not understand, 50 a nation of fierce countenance, which does not respect the elderly nor show favor to the young. 51 And they shall eat the increase of your livestock and the produce of your land, until you are destroyed; they shall not leave you grain or new wine or oil, or the increase of your cattle or the offspring of your flocks, until they have destroyed you. 52 They shall besiege you at all your gates until your high and fortified walls, in which you trust, come down throughout all your land; and they shall besiege you at all your gates throughout all your land which the LORD your God has given you (Deuteronomy 28:42-45,47-52).

The economy, debt situation, and moral situation in the USA is serious. None of them can continue indefinitely and will end in ways that most Americans really do not believe is possible.

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?
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?
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?
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?
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.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a new 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about Mitt Romney. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link:  Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Mitt Romney?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it:  Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon’s Free Reader Apps.  After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition.

COGwriter

Organic foods have been in the news lately.  Here are a couple of reports:

September 10, 2012

Recently, a study conducted by Stanford University analyzed over 230 field studies and 17 human studies that had previously been conducted in the United States and Europe…

The study determined that  “consumers can markedly reduce their intake of pesticide residues and their exposure to antibiotic-resistant bacteria by choosing organic produce and meat.”

On the other hand, the researchers of the study did not find a significant difference in nutritional makeup between organic and conventional foods. The study lacked “strong evidence that organic foods are significantly more nutritious than conventional foods.”

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) noted that the Stanford study “did not directly address the important environmental and public health benefits that result from reduced pesticide and antibiotic use. Synthetic pesticides can kill insect pollinators, harm wildlife and farmworkers and often end up in the air and water.”  http://madison-ct.patch.com/articles/is-eating-organic-better-9677795c

September 9, 2012

“Stanford Scientists Cast Doubt on Advantages of Organic Meat and Produce” (news article, Sept. 4) says organic meat contained considerably lower levels of antibiotic-resistant bacteria than conventionally raised animals, “but bacteria, antibiotic-resistant or otherwise, would be killed during cooking.”

But if this were true, we would not have had 136 illnesses and one death from antibiotic-resistant salmonella in ground turkey last year, or an estimated tens of millions of food-borne illnesses every year.  http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/10/opinion/fewer-pesticides-make-organic-the-safer-choice.html

I intentionally did not report the Stanford study when it came out a few days ago for many reasons, including parts of its conclusions, as I felt addressing some of the specifics might make more sense, as some others have tried to do.  Before going further, let me state that it has been alleged that because of money Stanford gets from Monsanto, parts of the study were biased against organic foods (see a Youtube titled Stanford’s Monsanto Ties Cast Doubt on Organic Food Study).  Monsanto is a big producer of GMOs (genetically-modified organisms) in the “food” supply, as well as a variety of farm chemicals.  Essentially, via GMOs, Monsanto is big behind producing “food items” that God did not directly create.  I consider that the U.S.A. (and others) are risking famine by relying more and more on genetically-engineered “foods.”

The Organic Consumers Association lists the following ten reasons (which I have truncated here, with more information at http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_23801.cfm) why it feels that organic foods are better:

1. Organic foods are produced without the use of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)…

2. Organic foods are safe and pure. Organic farming prohibits the use of toxic pesticides, antibiotics, growth hormones, nano-particles, and climate-destabilizing chemical fertilizers…

3. Organic foods and farming are climate-friendly…

4. Organic food certification prohibits nuclear irradiation. Consumers are justifiably alarmed about irradiating food with nuclear waste or electron beams, which destroy vitamins and nutrients and produce cancer-causing chemicals such as benzene and formaldehyde…

5. Consumers worry about rampant e-coli, salmonella, campylobacter, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and fecal contamination in animal products coming out of the nation’s inhumane and filthy slaughterhouses…

6. Consumers are concerned about billions of pounds of toxic municipal sewage sludge dumped as “fertilizer” on 140,000 of America’s chemical farms…

7. Consumers worry about the routine practice of grinding up slaughterhouse waste and feeding this offal and blood back to other animals, a practice that has given rise to a form of human mad-cow disease called CJD, often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s disease…

8. Consumers care about the humane treatment of animals…

9. Consumers are concerned about purchasing foods with high nutritional value…

10. Consumers care about preserving America’s family farms, world hunger, and the plight of the world’s two billion small farmers.

In the last century, prior to the introduction of GMO “foods”, the late Herbert W. Armstrong wrote:

And so man IS just what he eats. Some of the most famous physicians and surgeons have said that 90% to 95% of all sickness and disease comes from faulty diet!

Most people are in utter ignorance of the fact that it does make a difference what we eat! Most people, and the customs of society, have followed a regimen of eating whatever tastes good to the palate.

Adults are babies grown up. Observe a nine-month-old baby. Everything that comes into his hands goes to his mouth!

My youngest brother may not like to read this in print, but I remember when he was about nine months old, and had managed to creep into the basement coal bin. We found him trying to eat little chunks of coal—his mouth and face well blackened!

You may laugh at babies trying to eat silver cups and chunks of coal. Or at people who dip small mice into a sauce, and, holding them by their tails, drop them as a delicious delicacy into their mouths.

If you do, they will laugh back at you. They will tell you that mice eat clean grain and clean foods, while you dip slimy, slithery oysters and other scavenger seafoods into cocktail sauces, and consider them a delicacy!

You think adults have actually LEARNED any better than nine-month-olds babies? Go to your fancy grocer’s and you’ll find on his shelves canned eel and canned rattlesnake.

WHY? As I said, humans know nothing at birth! We have to learn! But most of us do not know that! And, again, what we don’t know, we don’t know that we don’t know! And somehow, ever since babyhood, most humans seem to have grown up putting everything into the mouth. Most have grown up eating just whatever seemed to taste good—and whatever they saw others eating. There has been little education or even study about WHAT we ought—or ought NOT—to eat.

Most degenerative diseases are modern diseases—penalties for eating foods that have been demineralized in food factories—usually an excess of starch, sugar (the carbohydrates) and fats. Others are caused by a type of malnutrition—lack of needed minerals and vitamins in foods. Then people try to put the “vitamins” back into their systems by buying pills at the drugstore!  (More on this can be found in the article HWA: Third Law of Success: Good Health.)

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

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

10 A righteous man regards the life of his animal, But the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.  (Proverbs 12:10)

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

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

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

While overeating and obesity are major problems in the Anglo-lands and many other nations, the fact is that the overwhelming majority of Westerners do not consume the recommended minimum of two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables per day.   And much of the “food” is actually eaten is highly processed with a variety of chemicals that humans never used to eat. Something to think about.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

The Seven Laws of Success Booklet by Herbert W. Armstrong that can help people become successful.  And the third “law” has to do with health.
The New Testament Church and Unclean Meats Are foods considered to have been unclean in the Old Testament considered to be food in the New Testament? This article discusses this from the perspective of the New Testament. It also has a list of clean and unclean animals. It also answers the question, is pork healthy or is pork dangerous?
Spiritual Benefits of Fasting Jesus said, “But by Prayer and Fasting” and this article by Dr. Meredith focuses on fasting and provides his physical and spiritual fasting tips. Does fasting help prevent heart disease?
Obesity and Prophecy Does the Bible warn about the consequences of being obese? Is overeating dangerous?
What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally?
The Bible: Fact or Fiction? This is a booklet written by Douglas Winnail that answers if the Bible is just a collection of myths and legends or the inspired word of God.
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading.

India

COGwriter

India and Pakistan are trying to improve aspects of their relationship:

September 9, 2012

Pakistan and India agreed to ease visa restrictions for their citizens to boost business travel and trade across their border as part of their push for peace.

India’s Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna signed the visa agreement in Islamabad yesterday during a three-day visit. The change will allow businessmen from both countries to get multiple entry visas, exempting them from a police reporting requirement. Tourist visas will also be issued for the first time, according to the state-run Pakistan Television.

The agreement was signed after Krishna held talks with his Pakistani counterpart Hina Rabbani Khar for the second time since peace talks resumed last year.  http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-09-09/india-pakistan-relax-visa-requirements-as-part-of-peace-process

Peace and a reduction of hostilities is a good thing. Jesus taught:

9 Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God. (Matthew 5:9)

So why might the India/Pakistan visas and peace talks be of prophetic concern?

There are several. For one, the Bible tells of a time coming when there will be a Eurasian union of the “kings of the east” (Revelation 16:12) will put together a 200,000,000 man army (Revelation 9:16). This would likely involve India and probably also at that stage Pakistan. So, any cooperation between those nations now could assist in them being part of the end time confederation of Revelation 9:16 and 16:12.

And while real peace will come after Jesus returns, there will be wars, false deals, and oppression until then. While it is good that Pakistan and India are trying to resolve their differences through talking instead of wars, in this age, they will not be able to bring real and lasting peace (Isaiah 59:8; Romans 3:10-18).

But Jesus, “the Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6), ultimately will.

World events continue to align with properly understood biblical prophecy.

Two articles of possibly-related prophetic 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 Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?

COGwriter

Want another reason to avoid pork?  Notice the following:

California’s Unspoken Health Problem: Brain Parasites

…it is the major cause for epilepsy worldwide. The CDC estimates that there are 1,900 diagnosed cases every year, 386 annual cases in California alonewhich can cost upwards of $66,000. Often it is paid through Medicare – costing taxpayers thousands.Tapeworms enter the body, normally ingested through pork or beef. The larvae use hook-like teeth to tear tiny holes in the intestines and sometimes travel to the brain.

http://www.medicaldaily.com/articles/11962/20120906/californias-unspoken-health-problem-brain-parasites.htm

Brain Parasite ‘Neurocysticercosis’ Cases Increasing In California…

According to the CDC, neurocysticercosis is preventable, but happens with larval cysts of the pork tapeworm enter the brain.

It is the most severe form of cyticercosis.http://www.ksee24.com/news/local/Brain-Parasite-Neurocysticercosis-Cases-Increasing-In-California-169038376.html

California Has A Problem With Brain-Infecting Parasites

Sept 7, 2012 excerpt…

The diagnosis, officially called Neurocysticercosis, is common in the third world (about 50 million people are infected globally). But American doctors often don’t know the symptoms of the 1,900 cases that show up in American hospitals every year.

The worms are originally tiny: about the size of peas. They come from eating contaminated pork, and fight their way into the small intestines and cling to the flesh there while draining nutrients from their host. They can grow to be 20 feet long and can make tens of thousands of eggs a day, which ride through the bloodstream through the whole body.

http://www.businessinsider.com/california-has-a-problem-with-brain-infecting-parasites-2012-9

Interestingly, years ago I remember reading a small item in the Townsend Letter for Doctors where the author claimed that 2% of visits to neurologists in California were related to problems associated with eating pork.  It probably should be noted that because cattle are not always proper raised, parasites can come from them, but the neurological parasitic problems are much more closely associated with pork.

Relatively soon, serious pestilences are prophesied as they are part of what Jesus called “the beginning of sorrows”:

7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. (Matthew 24:7-8)

If humans quit eating pigs, a lot of health problems would go away.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012, 2013, or 2014? 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?
The New Testament Church and Unclean Meats Are foods considered to have been unclean in the Old Testament considered to be food in the New Testament? This article discusses this from the perspective of the New Testament. It also has a list of clean and unclean animals. It also answers the question, is pork healthy or is pork dangerous?
Fourth Horseman of the Apocalypse What is the pale horse of death and pestilence? What will it bring and when?

COGwriter

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

Australia’s economic woes.

The resource-based Australian economy has greatly benefited from massive iron ore exports which have supported China’s economic boom. “China takes 25% of Australia’s exports and iron ore accounts for 60% of all the goods Australia sells to China. One reason Australia avoided recession during the global downturn of 2008-09 was that it had a well-run banking system. A much bigger reason was that the country had become a giant pit from which China could extract the minerals it needed for its industrial expansion” (The Guardian, August 29, 2012).The Chinese economy is now rapidly slowing and significant reserves of iron ore have been amassed, putting the Australian economy at risk. “It has an over-valued currency, an over-valued property market, and its major customer is now desperately pulling every available policy lever in the hope of avoiding a hard landing” (ibid.).

God promised to bless the Israelite-descended nations, including Australia, the UK, and the USA with abundance beyond measure if they obey and walk with Him (Deuteronomy 28:1-13). God also warned that if His people despised His ways, foreign nations would consume their resources (Leviticus 26:16; Deuteronomy 28:33)–yet Australia continues to promote abortion, an anti-God mentality and homosexuality as a normal lifestyle. The Bible clearly states that serious consequences will strike the Israelite nations that forget their God (Hosea 8:14).

Australia has done quite well the past few year.  Yet, like the other Anglo-descended nations, it too needs repentance as it will suffer in the time of Jacob’s trouble (Jeremiah 30:7).

Some articles of 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? 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?
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?
Is God’s Existence Logical? Some say it is not logical to believe in God. Is that true?
Is Evolution Probable or Impossible or Is God’s Existence Logical? Part II This short article clearly answers what ‘pseudo-scientists’ refuse to acknowledge.
What is the 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.
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.