Church of God News

Muslim Brotherhood
الإخوان المسلمون
Al-Ikhwān Al-Muslimūn

COGwriter

The following should have been expected by readers of the COGwriter news page:

Egyptian president appoints Islamist, military governors

5 September 2012

CAIRO (Reuters) – Egyptian President Mohamed Mursi has appointed members of the Muslim Brotherhood as provincial governors, moves seen as part of a drive to purge loyalists of ousted Hosni Mubarak from state bodies and strengthen support for the new Islamist leader.

The president’s office announced on Tuesday that it had picked 10 new governors, and said all those appointed were chosen on merit rather than party affiliation.

At least three of the new names are known members of the Muslim Brotherhood, a group banned under Mubarak. They took posts in Minya, Kafr el-Sheikh and Manufiya. One newspaper said up to three others had loose links to the Islamist group.

Three army generals were appointed governors in Suez, Red Sea and North Sinai, near sensitive border areas.  http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/sns-rt-us-egypt-governors-islamistbre8840j1-20120905,0,4433363.story

Islamists installed in Egypt state institutions

Sept 4, 2012

CAIRO (AP) — Egypt’s Islamist leadership took a new move Tuesday to put its stamp on the country’s government, appointing members of the fundamentalist Muslim Brotherhood as provincial governors and installing ultraconservatives and other Islamists in the state’s top human rights body and a powerful media council.

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/M/ML_EGYPT?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2012-09-04-17-00-34

Based upon passages in Daniel 11:40-43 and Ezekiel 30:1-9, it has been clear for some time that Egypt would be part of the confederation that will support the final King of the South (and be defeated).

Before quoting those scriptures, let us look at what the Muslim Brotherhood wants:

Safwat Higazi: We can see how the dream of the Islamic Caliphate is being realized, Allah willing, by Dr. Muhammad Mursi and his brothers, his supporters, and his political party. We can see how the great dream, shared by us all – that of the United States of the Arabs… The United States of the Arabs will be restored, Allah willing. The United States of the Arabs will be restored by this man and his supporters.

The capital of the Caliphate – the capital of the United States of the Arabs – will be Jerusalem, Allah willing.

(Video: Muslim Brotherhood: “‘United States of the Arabs’ with Jerusalem as Its Capital”. May 9, 2012. http://daledamos.blogspot.com/2012/05/video-muslim-brotherhood-united-states.html)

What is the Muslim Brotherhood?
The world’s largest and most influential Islamist movement. Founded in Egypt in 1928, the group was originally focused on ridding the country of corrupting secular influences brought by British colonial rule. Over the years, it established branches and affiliates in many countries to promote traditional Sunni Islamic morals, social justice, and the eradication of poverty and corruption. “The Islamic nation,” its charter states, “must be fully prepared to fight the tyrants and the enemies of Allah as a prelude to establishing an Islamic state”—ideally a re-established caliphate, stretching from Spain across the Middle East and Central Asia to Indonesia, to be governed according to Islamic sharia law. (Understanding the Muslim Brotherhood. February 14, 2011. © The Muslim Brotherhood. http://www.ikhwanweb.com/article.php?id=28019 viewed 11/21/2011)

The Muslim Brotherhood apparently wants as its top priority a pan-national Islamic caliphate ruled by an Imam. Many Muslims long for the rising up of a leader called the 12th Imam, often referred to as the Imam Mahdi. It will not end up with Spain if I understand certain aspects of Bible prophecy correctly, but the confederation of the final King of the South may go from around Western Sahara and/or Mauritania to Oman (with possible involvement and/or coordination with Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan and/or Indonesia).

Notice that the Bible tells of a confederation of nations that are currently in North Africa and the Middle East, that they will be aligned with Egypt, but that this alliance will not be successful after a while:

40 “At the time of the end the king of the South shall attack him; and the king of the North shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter the countries, overwhelm them, and pass through. 41 He shall also enter the Glorious Land, and many countries shall be overthrown; but these shall escape from his hand: Edom, Moab, and the prominent people of Ammon. 42 He shall stretch out his hand against the countries, and the land of Egypt shall not escape. 43 He shall have power over the treasures of gold and silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt; also the Libyans and Ethiopians shall follow at his heels. (Daniel 11:40-43, NKJV)

1 The word of the LORD came to me: 2 “Son of man, prophesy and say: ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says:

“‘Wail and say, “Alas for that day!” 3 For the day is near, the day of the LORD is near- a day of clouds, a time of doom for the nations. 4 A sword will come against Egypt, and anguish will come upon Cush. When the slain fall in Egypt, her wealth will be carried away and her foundations torn down.

5 Cush and Put, Lydia and all Arabia, Libya and the people of the covenant land will fall by the sword along with Egypt.

6 “‘This is what the LORD says:

“‘The allies of Egypt will fall and her proud strength will fail. From Migdol to Aswan they will fall by the sword within her, declares the Sovereign LORD. 7 “‘They will be desolate among desolate lands, and their cities will lie among ruined cities. 8 Then they will know that I am the LORD, when I set fire to Egypt and all her helpers are crushed.

9 “‘On that day messengers will go out from me in ships to frighten Cush out of her complacency. Anguish will take hold of them on the day of Egypt’s doom, for it is sure to come (Ezekiel 30:1-9, NIV).

We are seeing more and more of the beginning of this formation, which ultimately will fail as the Bible shows.  And one of the leaders associated with the Muslim Brotherhood may well become the King of the South that the Bible foretells (Daniel 11:40-43).

Watch (Mark 13:37).

Some articles of 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?
Is There an Islamic Antichrist? Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.

COGwriter

While I was aware that the Democratic Party of the U.S.A. was proposing to put stronger pro-abortion language in the party platform, the following seems unexpected:

September 4, 2012

Guess what? God’s name has been removed from the Democratic National Committee platform.

This is the paragraph that was in the 2008 platform:

“We need a government that stands up for the hopes, values, and interests of working people, and gives everyone willing to work hard the chance to make the most of their God-given potential.”

Now the words “God-given” have been removed. The paragraph has been restructured to say this:

“We gather to reclaim the basic bargain that built the largest middle class and the most prosperous nation on Earth – the simple principle that in America, hard work should pay off, responsibility should be rewarded, and each one of us should be able to go as far as our talent and drive take us.”   http://blogs.cbn.com/thebrodyfile/archive/2012/09/04/democrats-drop-god-from-party-platform.aspx

It is possible that the Democratic Party delegates will change on this.  We will see.  Sadly, it is also my understanding that the platform will have pro-homosexual marriage language.

Notice that the Bible warns:

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 1:28-32)

Removing even the word “God” seems to be related to not wanting to retain God in the knowledge of the Democratic Party (but again, this may change).  Also, just because the Republican Party gives more mention of God, this does not mean that God is a Republican or supporter of that party.

Earlier today, I announced my latest book 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 predictions 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 for US$9.98.

FOR THOSE THAT WANT A FREE ELECTRONIC VERSION.  You can go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is free from September 4, 2012 until September 8, 2012, and is only US$2.99 thereafter. If you don’t have a Kindle reader that should not be a problem if you will take a few minutes to download a free read App. Amazon will allow you to download Kindle to almost any device, including personal computers, MACs, Ipads, etc.: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon’s Free Reader Apps (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000493771). After you get your free Kindle reader and go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition for your free book! (Note: Amazon Kindle prohibits me from giving the book away directly in electronic form or it will not carry the book, that is why I advise going to Amazon’s free Kindle app site so you can get the book for free during the time that Amazon allows a free promotion of it.) If you like the book, please consider posting a review at Amazon. If you do not like it, consider sending me an email specifying any issues you have with it so I can possibly change possible future versions of it.

COGwriter

Today, I would like to announce my latest book 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 predictions 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 for US$9.98.

WANT A FREE ELECTRONIC VERSION?  Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States–Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is free from September 4, 2012 until September 8, 2012, and is only US$2.99 thereafter.  If you don’t have a Kindle reader that should not be a problem.  Amazon will allow you to download Kindle to almost any device, including personal computers, MACs, Ipads, etc.: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon’s Free Reader Apps (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000493771).  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  for your free book! (Note: Amazon Kindle prohibits me from giving the book away directly in electronic form or it will not carry the book, that is why I advise going to Amazon’s free Kindle app site so you can get the book for free during the time that Amazon allows a free promotion of it.)  If you like the book, please consider posting a review at Amazon.  If you do not like it, consider sending me an email specifying any issues you have with it so I can possibly change possible future versions of it.

Several years ago, I posted a short article with the title that is now the same as this new book (see Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States).   It became very popular.  It led to chapter 8 in my book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect, which was titled Barack Obama, Islam, and the End of America.  The Barack Obama Administration has already began to fulfill at least a dozen predictions from my 2009 book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect.  I have now greatly expanded my research on prophecies associated with Barack Obama and now have a new book available for only US$9.98.  (Overall, world events have already began to confirm at least two dozen predictions in 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect.)

Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States explains about how, by virtue of his background and policies, Barack Obama is fulfilling, and will continue to help fulfill, various prophecies that will lead to the destruction of the United States.  Not intended as an anti-Democratic nor pro-Republican book, Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States also tells the truth about Mitt Romney and why his possible election would also lead to destruction. It answers questions such as “Is Barack Obama apocalyptic? ” and “Is Barack Obama the Antichrist?”  Citing Islamic, Kenyan, Catholic, Byzantine, and Bible prophecy, as well as the writings of Nostradamus and others, Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States explains from many source where, why, when, and even some of how, the various aspects of destruction will come.

The book also includes information about the destruction of the other British-descended nations such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The physical book from Amazon can be purchased at 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?

Japanese Demon Portrayal

COGwriter

The movie “The Possession” is a box office hit this weekend in the USA:

3 September 2012

Box office report: ‘The Possession’ enjoys second best Labor Day weekend ever …

Although I did not see The Possession, nor do I plan to, a reader sent the following article about it:

“Possession” is a horror film inspired by a newspaper account of a family that fights a demon known as a Dibbuk in ancient Yiddish folklore. The spirit resides in a Dibbuk box and is said to possesses people’s bodies with the intention of devouring them.

In “Possession,” the Dibbuk enters the body of a young woman, leaving her parents to figure out how to stop it. Kyra Sedgwick and Madison Davenport star in the film.  http://entertainment.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/09/02/13621682-supernatural-thriller-possession-leads-box-office?lite

Irrespective of Hollywood portrayals of demonic possession (the Bible does not teach about a “Dibbuk box”), demonic possession is real.

The New Testament has various accounts of demonic possession.  Here two:

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

6 When he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and worshiped Him. 7 And he cried out with a loud voice and said, “What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I implore You by God that You do not torment me.”

8 For He said to him, “Come out of the man, unclean spirit!”  9 Then He asked him, “What is your name?”

And he answered, saying, “My name is Legion; for we are many.” 10 Also he begged Him earnestly that He would not send them out of the country.

11 Now a large herd of swine was feeding there near the mountains. 12 So all the demons begged Him, saying, “Send us to the swine, that we may enter them.” 13 And at once Jesus gave them permission. Then the unclean spirits went out and entered the swine (there were about two thousand); and the herd ran violently down the steep place into the sea, and drowned in the sea.

14 So those who fed the swine fled, and they told it in the city and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that had happened. 15 Then they came to Jesus, and saw the one who had been demon-possessed and had the legion, sitting and clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. 16 And those who saw it told them how it happened to him who had been demon-possessed, and about the swine. 17 Then they began to plead with Him to depart from their region. (Mark 5:2-17)

22 Then one was brought to Him who was demon-possessed, blind and mute; and He healed him, so that the blind and mute man both spoke and saw. 23 And all the multitudes were amazed and said, “Could this be the Son of David?”

24 Now when the Pharisees heard it they said, “This fellow does not cast out demons except by Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.”

25 But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.  26 If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand?  27 And if I cast out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges.  28 But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you.  29 Or how can one enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? And then he will plunder his house.  30 He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad. (Matthew 12:22-30)

Problems involving demons were prophesied in the last days:

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

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

People, whether possessed by demons or not, there were those prophesied to be despisers of good in the last days.   One does not need to be demonically-possessed to do wrong.

Notice also:

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

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

Demons and sin are real.  Portrayals in movies (nor that shown at the beginning of this news item as a Japanese costume of a demon), not so much.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Close Encounters of a ‘Spirit’ Kind discusses some experiences I believe were (demon) ‘spirit’ related.
Mardi Gras: The Devil’s Carnival? Do you know that in Bolivia the carnival/Mardi Gras time is part of a celebration known as the Devil’s Carnival? Did Jesus celebrate Carnaval? Where did it come from?
Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians? This article provides some historical and biblical insight on this question.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about?
What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?

COGwriter

Intellectual development seems to be affected by obesity:

September 3, 2012

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There’s a scary new study showing that obesity can hurt kids’ brains…obesity is bad for kids.  It increases their risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, orthopedic problems and a whole bunch of other health problems.  But what this study in the journal Pediatrics is talking about is different: it’s talking about effects on the brain.  Researchers looked at 49 adolescents with metabolic syndrome.  Metabolic syndrome, a consequence of obesity when you use other methods, closer to 60 percent are obese…

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The kids with metabolic syndrome had more trouble with arithmetic, spelling, attention and mental “flexibility” than the ones who didn’t have metabolic syndrome. Even more frightening, the researchers saw actual changes in their brains, in the hippocampus (which plays a crucial role in memory) and the white matter (which passes messages through the brain).  http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/health/mdmama/2012/09/obesity_is_bad_for_kids_brains.html

60% obesity rate and intellectual development being affected.  This does not bode well for countries like the United States.

And while there is obesity in many cultures, the amount that are obese in the USA is insanely high.

The Bible warns about obesity, getting fat, and excessive eating.

Notice some of what Moses and Jeremiah wrote:

15 You grew fat, you grew thick,
You are obese!
Then he forsook God who made him,
And scornfully esteemed the Rock of his salvation.
16 They provoked Him to jealousy with foreign gods;
With abominations they provoked Him to anger. (Deuteronomy 32:15-16)

11 “Because you were glad, because you rejoiced,
You destroyers of My heritage,
Because you have grown fat like a heifer threshing grain,
And you bellow like bulls,
12 Your mother shall be deeply ashamed;
She who bore you shall be ashamed.
Behold, the least of the nations shall be a wilderness,
A dry land and a desert. (Jeremiah 50:11-12)

God inspired the prophet Isaiah to write:

2 Why do you spend money for what is not bread,
And your wages for what does not satisfy?
Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good (Isaiah 55:2).

But Americans do not often eat what is good. And they eat a lot of white bread, which is really not real bread as it has had the wheat germ and other natural components removed. This makes an inferior product which then is sprayed with synthetic B vitamins and other “nutrients” to “fortify” it. If you notice “B vitamins” added to “fortify” refined grain products or in so-called “natural” vitamin supplements (like thiamin mononitrate, thiamin HCL, folic acid, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine hydrochloride, cyanocobalamin), realize that these are basically petroleum derivatives and are not the same form of vitamins that are actually found in real, natural, food.

But most Americans consume the synthetics and refined grains.

The other problem is that Americans eat too much. The Bible warns against this:

18 “If a man has a stubborn and rebellious son who will not obey the voice of his father or the voice of his mother, and who, when they have chastened him, will not heed them, 19 then his father and his mother shall take hold of him and bring him out to the elders of his city, to the gate of his city. 20 And they shall say to the elders of his city, ‘This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious; he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton and a drunkard.’ 21 Then all the men of his city shall stone him to death with stones; so you shall put away the evil from among you, and all Israel shall hear and fear. (Deuteronomy 21:18-21)

20 Do not mix with winebibbers, Or with gluttonous eaters of meat; 21 For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty (Proverbs 23:20-21)

Yet most Americans, simply do not believe they eat too much. And this includes many overweight ones.

But notice that the Bible warns against eating bad foods and eating too much. And also notice that at least two curses are associated with this.  Curses of destruction and poverty.

Poverty and destruction will come to the peoples of the United States. And, likely, famine as well (Matthew 24:7-8) before the start of the Great Tribulation–a time of trouble for the USA and its Anglo-allies.

The end of the USA and its Anglo-descended allies is coming. There is no prophecy in scripture that I believe even hints that a country like the current USA will exist after the King of the North succeeds (cf. Daniel 11:39, which seems to be the only fairly direct reference to the USA in that chapter, and shows its conquering and division). National repentance, which does not seem likely at this stage, is the only hope. But individuals themselves can turn to God. And although obesity is a multi-factorial problem, all who are overweight, even the irreligious, can eat less and make better food choices.

The fact that intellectual development is being impacted by obesity is one more factor that is contributing to decline in the United States.

Some prophetic articles of possibly related interest may include:

Obesity and Prophecy Does the Bible warn about the consequences of being obese? Is overeating dangerous? Is gluttony condemned?
Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers 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?
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? Eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. This article includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article on this page on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including many that have already been fulfilled. This book is available at www.barackobamaprophecy.com

COGwriter

The following was part of the the announcements in LCG services yesterday:

Powerful New Evidence Supports Male Circumcision: Considerable research supporting male circumcision has surfaced over the last decade. As a result, The American Academy of Pediatrics just reversed its 13-year stance. A five-year review of more than 1,000 circumcision studies resulted in the Academy’s conclusion: “Systematic evaluation of English-language peer-reviewed literature from 1995 through 2010 indicates that preventive health benefits of elective circumcision of male newborns outweigh the risks of the procedure. Benefits include significant reductions in the risk of urinary tract infection in the first year of life and, subsequently, in the risk of heterosexual acquisition of HIV and th e transmission of other sexually transmitted infections” (Pediatrics, September 2012, Vol. 130, No. 3). The Academy also recommends insurers begin covering the procedure (ibid.). While the scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the procedure, there are still many opponents. A court in Cologne, Germany, recently ruled that infant male circumcision opposes “the fundamental right of the child to bodily integrity” (CBS News, August 27, 2012). Roughly 4,000 years ago God commanded Abraham to be circumcised (Genesis 17:11-13) and continued this command with the Israelites (Leviticus 12:3). By giving these commands, God was ultimately protecting baby boys (and their future wives), and instituting a practice that would keep them healthier than their enemies—and even blessing their descendants (Deuteronomy 7:12-15). Science is simply “uncovering” the powerful physical reasons why God gave this loving command so long ago!

As the above says, thousands of years ago, God told Abraham to implement circumcision:

9 And God said to Abraham: “As for you, you shall keep My covenant, you and your descendants after you throughout their generations. 10 This is My covenant which you shall keep, between Me and you and your descendants after you: Every male child among you shall be circumcised; 11 and you shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskins, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between Me and you. 12 He who is eight days old among you shall be circumcised, every male child in your generations, he who is born in your house or bought with money from any foreigner who is not your descendant. 13 He who is born in your house and he who is bought with your money must be circumcised, and My covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant. 14 And the uncircumcised male child, who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin, that person shall be cut off from his people; he has broken My covenant.” (Genesis 17:9-14)

Now, although the New Testament teaches that Gentile adult males do not have to be circumcised in order to be Christians (Acts 15:24-29), the Apostle Paul had Timothy circumcised anyway (Acts 16:3).

Even though the apostles ruled that adult Gentiles did not have to be circumcised in Acts 15, my own reading into early church history suggests that many Christians continued to circumcise their male babies after this declaration (though not necessarily in all Sabbath-keeping groups).

The early 20^th century theologian J.J.L. Ratton reported:

The early Church at Jerusalem, retained most of the distinctive customs of the Jews, such as circumcision, kosher meats, the Jewish Sabbath, the Jewish rites, and worship of the Temple. Our Lord, Himself, lived the exterior life of a Jew, even so far as the observance of Jewish religious customs was concerned. The early Church of Jerusalem followed His example. The Jews looked upon the Hebrew Christians in Jerusalem simply as a Jewish sect, which they called the sect of the Nazarenes. (Ratton JJL The Apocalypse of St. John: a commentary on the Greek text, 2^nd edition. R. & T. Washbourne, ltd., 1915. Original fromt he University of Michigan. Digitized Jun 12, 2007, p. 4)

Now, it should be mentioned that in the second century, non-Nazarene professors of Christ, like the heretic Justin, did not practice circumcision.

While the Bible does not list health benefits that come from circumcision, it would make sense that the Creator of the universe would only recommend physical practices that were beneficial for His human creation.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Health Benefits for Circumcision Various studies show health benefits for male circumcision. Have Christians observed circumcision throughout history?
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 doctrines the early Christians actually had? Is your faith really based upon the truth or compromise?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?
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?

COGwriter

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants the international community to take clearer action regarding Iran:

September 2, 2012

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel’s prime minister is urging the international community to get tougher against Iran, saying that without a “clear red line” Tehran will not halt its nuclear program.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told his Cabinet Sunday that Iran does not see international determination to stop its nuclear activities.

The U.N. nuclear agency last week concluded that Iran has expanded its nuclear activity at a heavily fortified underground site and effectively shut down inspections of a separate site suspected of being used for weapons-related experiments.

Israel has threatened to attack Iran if it believes international sanctions and diplomacy are failing to curb Tehran’s disputed nuclear program. Iran says its program is solely for peaceful purposes.

Netanyahu’s latest comments reflect Israel’s stance that time for military action is quickly running out.  www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hegUXSdnAWHW8HGjsYRCLZHU_Xhw?docId=662331c6b53745108349b61305dc131e

Netanyahu’s remarks suggested a growing Israeli impatience with its main ally, the United States, and other countries that have been pressing him to give diplomacy and sanctions more time to work and hold off on any go-it-alone Israeli strike on Iran.

“I believe the truth must be stated: The international community is not placing a clear red line for Iran and Iran does not see international resolve to stop its nuclear programme,” Netanyahu told his cabinet.

“Unless Iran sees this clear red line and this clear resolve it will not stop moving forward with its nuclear programme, and Iran must not have nuclear weapons,” he said in broadcast remarks.

Although Netanyahu did not single out the United States or U.S. President Barack Obama in his criticism, Israeli officials have said they hope for stronger language from the president about possible U.S. military action.

Obama, who has had a frosty relationship with Netanyahu, has insisted he will not allow Iran to build atomic weapons and that all options are on the table.  http://in.reuters.com/article/2012/09/02/iran-israel-idINL6E8K218Y20120902

I believe that the Israeli Prime Minister really believes that he wants an attack 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.

While Israel does face a real threat from Iran, it has long been my view that its Prime Minister has been a bit too optimistic about the difficulties that an attack against Iran could pose for his country (as well as that of the United States).  The position of the Obama Administration of the dangers is closer to the reality of the situation. The situation in Syria, for one example, is quite tense and fighting Israel may be perceived to be in Syria’s best interest (Syria is a strong Iranian ally). Syrian involvement with Iran could, of course, backfire on Syria and result in major losses (cf. Isaiah 17:1), but that does not mean that its President Assad will not fight Israel (technically, his nation is still at war with Israel) if he feels he and Iran need to do so.

While USA President Obama hopes not to have a major war if Israel strikes Iran, I suspect that a regional war in the Middle East could get out of control.  Both sides have electromagnetic pulse and certain other weapons that have not been used in quite the same way that they have the potential to be used now.

According to the Bible, the King of the South (Daniel 11:40) will rise up and we will see if this happens sometime after an Israeli conflict with Iran. Since Iran is not destined to be the King of the South, I have long written that it will somehow be neutralized (through a conflict involving Israel and/or internal strife, etc.)–thus Iran would likely suffer major damage (though a limited strike is possible, by Israel, but that view may prove to be optimistic).

This does not mean that I believe that Israel (or the USA and/or its allies for that matter) will end up without potentially severe losses (actually I do think that Israel and/or one of its allies will), only that Iran and Syria may start to feel so desperate that they will conclude that military conflict with Israel is their best option–if so, this would be a mistake on those nations’ part.

But Israel, and or the USA, are also at risk. Iran and/or Syria have chemical and biological weapons that could affect Israel and the USA, as well the potential for emp type bombs (see LCG: Middle East About to Explode? COGwriter Reports EMP Threat to Iran and USA), “dirty” bombs, and other nuclear-type bombs that Israel and/or the USA may have underestimated. Terrorist and other attacks are also possible–and any could hurt the USA, perhaps more seriously than many Americans think.

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

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2012 or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What is the “beginning of sorrows”? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? Eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. This article includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article on this page on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”, based up an early 20th century writing.
Canada in Prophecy: What Does Bible Prophecy, Catholic Prophecy, and other Predictions Suggest About the Future of Canada? There are prophecies that suggest involvement with Canada. And many are not positive about its future.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West? If so, what does that really mean for the USA and its Anglo allies.
Is Tony Blair Apocalyptic? The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom converted to Catholicism shortly after leaving his office and has been active in European affairs. What role might he play?
Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi? What does the Bible say?
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?

COGwriter

In his latest commentary Wyatt Ciesielka from the Living Church of God had the following:

Commentary: Are you being taught a false Gospel?

By Wyatt Ciesielka | Thursday, August 30, 2012

The true Gospel is the most vital message this world has ever received. It is the message Jesus and the Apostles preached. It is the message the faithful Church of God proclaims today. It is also a message that is often misunderstood and even shamefully attacked!

Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the Gospel of the kingdom of God (Mark 1:14). Jesus continued throughout all the cities and villages, preaching the Gospel of the kingdom (Matthew 9:35). Instructing His disciples about signs preceding His Second Coming, Jesus warned that although false ministers would deceive many (Matthew 24:11), the true Gospel of the kingdom would be preached to the entire world (v. 14)! Scripture makes plain that the focus of the true Gospel is the coming kingdom of God!Yet, how terribly neglected is this powerful message of Christ’s literal return by so many of today’s churches!But, does this mean that Jesus is not part of the Gospel? Absolutely not! While the Gospel is primarily about the coming Kingdom of God, it is unscriptural, illogical and impossible for Christ not to be part of that message! Don’t believe people’s opinions about this! Holy Scripture makes it absolutely evident that the true Gospel includes both components! Simply accept what your Bible proclaims! Notice:

• God’s faithful ministers have always taught “the things concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 8:12).

• Paul declared, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16).

• Peter taught, “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

• The Apostles were literally often beaten for “preaching Jesus as the Christ” (Acts 5:42)!

As Tomorrow’s World Editor in Chief Dr. Roderick C. Meredith summarizes, the Gospel includes Jesus’ role as “personal savior” and as “our heavenly High Priest… Finally, the Gospel’s main focus is on Christ’s future return in power and glory, as the Almighty King of kings, to rule this world and the entire universe under the authority of God the Father” (Do You Believe the True Gospel?, pp. 35-36).

As briefly demonstrated, the above is exactly what Scripture teaches. The above is also exactly what God’s faithful ministers have always preached!

Notice one of dozens of similar statements from Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong: “We must believe the Gospel, and that means also believing on Jesus Christ, the King of the Kingdom of God, and coming King of kings over all the families of the earth. It means believing in Him as personal Savior, as High Priest now, and as coming King” (“What is the True Gospel?,” Tomorrow’s World, January 1970, p. 7).

We must believe the true Gospel to receive God’s grace (Mark 1:15; Ephesians 2:8-9), and Scripture indisputably teaches that this message is primarily about the coming Kingdom of God and includes Jesus Christ as Savior (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Again, notice the very clear words of Scripture: “Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him” (Acts 28:30-31).

Jude warns us to not accept the teachings of “ungodly” or “lewd” men (licentious or insolent teachers) who “deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ!” (Jude 4).

Please don’t accept human opinion or half-truths on this most vital subject – instead, simply prayerfully and humbly believe God’s word. If you have been misled to accept a false or an incomplete Gospel, then please study 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 and then prayerfully read all of the above Scriptures again in your own Bible.

Many do not understand the entirety of the Jesus’ real gospel of the kingdom message.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

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 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?
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.

Ben Bernanke

COGwriter

The U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman spoke yesterday and likely contributed to some market changes (bolding mine):

September 1, 2012 CNN…

Ben Bernanke’s…Fed has stockpiled about $1.6 trillion in Treasuries at low yields, and when those yields start to rise, it could stand to lose a substantial amount of money, those critics say.  Bernanke dismissed those concerns…When the Fed buys bonds, it’s not spending the government’s cash. Rather it creates the money itself, basically by electronically crediting the money to banks…”Monetary policy can achieve the most for the country by focusing generally on improving economic performance,” Bernanke said.  http://economy.money.cnn.com/2012/09/01/how-fed-stimulus-earns-a-profit-for-taxpayers/

JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — The Federal Reserve chairman, Ben S. Bernanke, delivered a detailed and forceful argument on Friday for new steps to stimulate the economy…Mr. Bernanke said that the Fed’s efforts over the last several years had helped to hasten economic recovery, that there was a clear need for additional action and that the likely benefits of new steps to stimulate growth outweighed the potential costs.

“It is important to achieve further progress, particularly in the labor market,” Mr. Bernanke said. “Taking due account of the uncertainties and limits of its policy tools, the Federal Reserve will provide additional policy accommodation as needed to promote a stronger economic recovery and sustained improvement in labor market conditions in a context of price stability.”

Some analysts expect the Fed to announce a new round of asset purchases after that meeting, further expanding its holdings of Treasury securities and mortgage-backed securities to reduce borrowing costs and spur investment. Others expect that it will instead announce its intent to keep its benchmark interest rate near zero beyond its current forecast of late 2014…

Stocks fell slightly after the release of Mr. Bernanke’s remarks, then climbed again. Commodities like gold and oil also increased.

Mr. Bernanke devoted much of his speech to asset purchases. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/01/business/economy/fed-chairman-pushes-hard-for-new-steps-to-spur-growth.html?pagewanted=all

In the interest of completeness, let me state that the writer of the first news item, which I only included selected excerpts above from CNN, actually supports the moves and proposals by the Fed Chairman.  The writer apparently does not believe that the amount of “stimulus” money created is enough to cause problems, that this program will make the government money, and it will help the economy.  I believe that that approach is short-sighted and ignores the cumulative effective of deficit spending and currency devaluation.  The CNN writer (Annalyn Censky) may be correct in the short-run, but the Bible, biblical prophecy, and the basic principles of an economy support my conclusions (and yes, in addition to the Bible, FWIW I have taken many college and university courses on economics, finance, and accounting–one of my degrees is a Bachelor’s cum laude in Accounting and did study finance and economics at the graduate/Master’s level from two universities, including the University of Southern California where I received my Master’s degree).

Interestingly, A couple of months ago, replying to Ben Bernanke’s comments back then (and how the USA has handled itself), Russia’s Prime Minister Putin actually said:

They are behaving like hooligans, switching on the printing press and tossing them around the whole world, forgetting their main obligations.

So, the Russian leader does not agree that there should be another round of “quantitative easing/asset repurchases” by the US Federal Reserve.   The Russian Prime Minister is correct that what the USA is doing is wrong.

The so-called “asset repurchasing” program is mainly a sham operation that debases the value of the U.S. dollar (mainly the government prints up money electronically and the “asset” purchased is a U.S. treasury note, not a real asset like, let’s say, an oil well; yes there are also some mortgages purchased which have ties to real assets, but there are problems there as well).  And that may be why the price of items such as gold went up after the Fed Chairman’s comments.

Inflating the money supply through currency debasing (QE1 and QE2) and debt (“stimulus” programs) is not something advocated in the Bible. Notice:

4 Take away the dross from silver (Proverbs 25:4a).

25 I will turn My hand against you,
And thoroughly purge away your dross,
And take away all your alloy. (Isaiah 1:25)

22 Your silver has become dross, Your wine mixed with water. (Isaiah 1:22)

Dross is a cheaper metal that is normally placed inside a covering of a precious metal like silver. Governments began to do this thousands of years ago when they had financial problems. Putting dross into silver cheapens currency, just like putting water into wine dilutes the wine’s value. In modern times, government spending in excess of revenues and quantitative easing programs (QE1 and QE2, from the Fed Chairman) are a way to dilute the value of currencies. This is not the biblical solution to US economic problems.

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).

As the Anglo-American nations have not kept God’s commandments, they have become the greatest debtor nations of all time. And while some do not count quantitative easing as “debt”, it is an improper “solution” to the USA’s economic woes.

But since Ben Bernanke will not advocate that the USA turn to God, he seems to think that diluting the currency is the best choice.

Carnally speaking, gold tends to stop the possibility of massive inflation as governments still have not figured out ways to massively produce it. Yet, they can do that to their paper/electronic money.

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 (Habakkuk 2:7).  The policies of the Federal Reserve Chairman, unless dramatically altered in a different direction relatively soon, are setting the stage for hyperinflation in the U.S.A.–have no doubt about it.

Electronically “creating” more U.S. dollars may stimulate parts of the U.S. economy, but the more dollars that are produced and backed by nothing, the sooner the world will realize that the U.S. dollar cannot remains its primary reserve currency.  When this happens, the U.S.A.’s economy will be massively hurt.  And much more than people like the Fed Chairman seem to want to admit.

The world is changing and the USA and its Anglo-descended allies are losing their financial dominance in the world. And while there will be some temporary rises in the value of the US dollar for a while (and likely when there is more civil unrest in Europe), the trend for the U.S. dollar and economy is clearly down.

Without massive national repentance, the Bible is clear that complete destruction of the economy, and even government, of the USA is certain. This is something that leaders, such as the Fed Chairman, need to know.

Ben Bernanke and others may wish to consider studying the following prophetically-oriented articles:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Canada in Prophecy: What Does Bible Prophecy, Catholic Prophecy, and other Predictions Suggest About the Future of Canada? There are prophecies that suggest involvement with Canada. And many are not positive about its future.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
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?

Ruins of Smyrna (Izmir, Turkey)

COGwriter

Turkey is concerning various ones:

Turkey’s New Role in Mideast Worries Many

After losing its empire to the Western powers at the close of WWI in 1918, Turkey is now making a comeback in the region, a policy that has many people questioning the wisdom of Prime Minister Erdogan’s policies.

Indeed, after continuous delays in being granted entry into the European Union Turkey had little choice but to turn eastwards once more. A move that was quite predictable in view of the EU’s stance vis-à-vis Turkey….

Senior Turkish diplomats in the region admit that the situation in Syria, in which Turkey is now directly concerned has Ankara “very worried.” And with just cause…

While the voices objecting to Iranian involvement may be muted, many in Turkey question if bringing Turkey into the fray of Middle East politics does not simply extend the conflict, or as some foresee, reviving old wounds from the days with the Ottoman Empire ruled the Levant and beyond.

Memories in this part of the world tend to linger. As a young Kosovar Albanian once said to me, “We used to be Christian but now we are Muslim.” Somewhat confused I asked him, what exactly did he mean by “we used to be Christian?”

“Of course,” he said, “Seven-hundred and fifteen years ago we were Christians.”   http://oilprice.com/Geopolitics/Middle-East/Turkeys-New-Role-in-Mideast-Worries-Many.html

Prophetically, Turkey will surprise many–including, in my view, the Turks themselves.

My wife and I have been to Turkey on three occasions and really have enjoyed it and the Turkish people.   The Turks do have long memories, and one tour guide told us that if the West would not have interfered with the Ottoman Empire, that they would have kept the Middle East under control and that basically the Arabs (and the rest of the world) need Turkey for that.  BTW, in Turkey, the tour guides all must be trained in Turkish history, etc. and pass a government test, and be issued a special card from the government to be actual tour guides.

As far as religion goes, while the Turks are almost 100% Muslim, they, as a rule, will consume alcohol and are not as strict as most of the Arabic Muslims.  When I asked another tour guide about that.  His response was essentially, “We were a nomadic people who always drank alcohol, maybe we are not so good Muslims.”

The Turks I have had political and/or religious discussions with (and not just tour guides) have tended to have more of a pragmatic, than mainly religious, view of the world.  The basic attitude that comes across is that the Turks will do what they think is best for themselves and ideology per se can be second to practical considerations.

The comment in the news article that the Turks used to be “Christian” is interesting, as in a sense, it hints that they may be willing to accept some form of a faith that claims ties to it.  As it turns out, there are many Catholic prophecies that indicate that the Turks will become (ecumenical) Catholic:

Dionysius of Luxemberg (died 1682): With divine assistance this ruler will not only lead erring souls back to the true Faith but also deal a heavy blow to the foes of the empire; the Turks, to take away their empire and restore it to Christianity (Connor E. Prophecy for Today. Imprimatur + A.J. Willinger, Bishop of Monterey-Fresno; Reprint: Tan Books and Publishers, Rockford (IL), 1984, p.84).

Blessed Anna Maria Taigi (died 1837): Millions of men would die by the sword in war and civil strife, other millions would perish in unforeseen death. Then entire nations would return to the unity of the Church, and many Turks, Pagans and Jews would be converted and their fervour cover with confusion the original Christians. In one word she told me that our Lord was intending to cleanse the world and His Church… (Bessieres A. Wife, Mother and Mystic (Blessed Anna Maria Taigi). Nihil Obstat: Carlos Davis, S.T.L. Imprimatur: E Morrough Bernard, Westmonasteri, die Februari, 1952. Reprint TAN Books, Rockford (IL), 1982, p. 166).

Old Saxon Prophecy. “The seven-headed city, now more admirable than Jerusalem, shall be a place more desolate than Jerusalem. The Dog shall enter Germany but shall afterwards forsake his master and choose for himself a new man, whereby Scripture shall be fulfilled. This Dog shall signify the Turk which shall forsake his Mohammed and choose unto him the name Christian…But after all these things the end of the world shall approach, and there shall be heavey and pitiful days.”

Comment: The seven-headed city is probably Rome…(the comment is from Dupont personally, Dupont Y. Catholic Prophecy: The Coming Chastisement. TAN Books, Rockford (IL), 1973, pp.23-24)

Venerable Bartholomew Holzhauser: All heresies shall be banished…the Turkish Empire shall be broken up, and all nations shall come to and worship their God in the true Catholic and Roman faith (Rossi, G. THE CHRISTIAN TRUMPET, OR, Previsions and Predictions about Impending General Calamities, The Universal Triumph of the Church, The Coming of Antichrist, The Last Judgment, and The End of the World. Compiled by PELLEGRINO [Gaudentius Rossi], A Missionary Priest with Superior’s permission. Boston, THOS. B. NOONAND & CO., 1873, p. 121)

Brother Louis Rocco (19th century): In Istanbul (Constantinople) the Cross will replace the half-moon of Islamism…the Turks…will subsequently embrace the Catholic faith. (Dupont, p.76)

Thus, even though it may not always have the best relations, Catholic prophecy indicates that Turkey will ultimately align with the coming compromised “Catholic” beast power.

The Bible indicates that the Turks (who are not Arabs, but seems to be Edom in scripture) will make a deal with the rising European power, along with the Arabs and Turkey:

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

But since Edom escapes much of what happens to the King of the South in Daniel 11:40-43, despite a deal with the Arabs, Turkey is apparently not a going to be a strong supporter of the final King of the South for very long.  But apparently it will be aligned for a while with that power.

And it, with directions from the European power, will destroy much of Jerusalem (apparently the final fulfillment of Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:1-2)

Notice also the following:

7 Remember, O Lord, against the sons of Edom
The day of Jerusalem,
Who said, “Raze it, raze it,
To its very foundation!”

8 O daughter of Babylon, who are to be destroyed,
Happy the one who repays you as you have served us!
9 Happy the one who takes and dashes
Your little ones against the rock! (Psalms 137:7-9)

Notice that Edom wants Jerusalem destroyed (consistent with its desires in Psalm 83) and that it is considered part of the “daughter of Babylon,” which is also a term that seems to also represent the compromised religious European Beast power (cf. Isaiah 47:1,8; Revelation 18:1-8; Zechariah 2:6-7). And Turkey apparently will encourage the destruction of Jerusalem.  And while it could do that from an Islamic perspective, since the Bible tells of the King of the North entering Jerusalem and causing abominations (Daniel 11:31), it may be more supporting the King of North with its attitude and not just the King of the South.

This is likely to happen around the time the King of the North, who is a prince first (cf. Daniel 9:26-27; Ezekiel 32:29-30) eliminates the King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43).

Interestingly, notice the following Catholic prophecy about betrayal of a great Arabic power:

Nostradamus: The Great Arab shall progress well forward, But betrayed shall be by the Byzantines. (Turks).

Comment on above from Catholic writer Yves Dupont: Here, we are told that Turkey will break its faith with the rest of the Arab world. (Dupont, Yves. Catholic Prophecy: The Coming Chastisement. TAN Books, Rockford (IL), 1973, p. 107).

The “Great Arab” is probably supposed to represent the Islamic Mahdi/Caliph, the final King of the South. The Turks currently control Byzantium and have for many centuries. Hence, Catholic prophecy indicates that Turkey will betray the Islamic Arabic power. Daniel 11:25-26 is clear that an ally of the King of the South will betray the King of the South. If Daniel 11:25-26 has future fulfillment (and as it seems to parallel Daniel 11:40-43 it may), it would seem that there will be close allies (like Turkey) that will betray the King of the South according to scripture as well.

The Bible shows that although the King of the North invades and overpowers the King of the South that Turkey (Edom below) escapes:

40 “At the time of the end the king of the South shall attack him; and the king of the North shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter the countries, overwhelm them, and pass through. 41 He shall also enter the Glorious Land, and many countries shall be overthrown; but these shall escape from his hand: Edom, Moab, and the prominent people of Ammon.  (Daniel 11:40-41)

The fact that Edom/Turkey escapes is consistent with Turkey perhaps deciding to support the King of the North, who according to 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 will have a variety of signs and lying wonders confirming his claims legitimacy.

It may be of interest to note that on more than one occasion, my wife and I were told while in Turkey, that there is an annual celebration for Mary in the area near Ephesus that Islamic Turks put on and participate in.  The name of Mary (or Miriam/Maryam/etc. depending on the translated spelling) is mentioned more times in the Qur’an than Jesus’ is (I have read many passages in it about her). And while some may think that Islamic interest in Mary is odd, notice also the following:

In the Koran, the holy name of the Blessed Virgin Mary is mentioned no less than thirty times. No other woman’s name is even mentioned, not even that of Mohammed’s daughter, Fatima. Among men, only Abraham, Moses, and Noah are mentioned more times than Our Lady…Make no mistake about it, there is a very special relationship between the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Moslems! (Cizik LJ Priest. OUR LADY AND ISLAM: HEAVEN’S PEACE PLAN. Soul Magazine. September – October 2001, © 2001 The Blue Army of Our Lady of Fatima, U.S.A., Inc., page 6 http://www.ewtn.com/library/mary/olislam.htm viewed 11/02/10)

Because of Islamic fascination with Mary, it is possible that an apparition claiming to be Mary might appear in Turkey and/or elsewhere. This also seems consistent with another Catholic prophecy:

Blessed Maria of Agreda (died 1665): The power of Mary in the latter days will be very conspicuous. Mary will extend the reign of Christ over the heathens and the Mohammedans (Dupont, p. 33).

St. Louis-Marie Grignion De Montfort (18th century): The power of Mary over all the devils will be particularly outstanding in the last period of time. She will extend the Kingdom of Christ over the idolaters and Moslems, and there will come glorious era when Mary is the Ruler and Queen of Hearts.(Dupont, p. 33)

Perhaps I should add that ever since the Turks took over Constantinople (now called Istanbul) in the 15th century, Eastern Orthodox Catholics have believed that Istanbul would once again embrace their religion (and likely it will embrace some version of it for a short while per Revelation 13:3-4,8).

The Bible indicates that Turkey will suffer mightily for some of its actions, including apparently how it will help destroy the Jewish nation of Israel (perhaps as vengeance for what Israel might do if Iran attacks it–which is something that I have suspected in the past):

12 ‘Thus says the Lord God: “Because of what Edom did against the house of Judah by taking vengeance, and has greatly offended by avenging itself on them,” 13 therefore thus says the Lord God: “I will also stretch out My hand against Edom, cut off man and beast from it, and make it desolate from Teman; Dedan shall fall by the sword. 14 I will lay My vengeance on Edom by the hand of My people Israel, that they may do in Edom according to My anger and according to My fury; and they shall know My vengeance,” says the Lord God. (Ezekiel 25:12-14)

15 As you rejoiced because the inheritance of the house of Israel was desolate, so I will do to you; you shall be desolate, O Mount Seir, as well as all of Edom — all of it! Then they shall know that I am the Lord. (Ezekiel 35:15)

19 “Egypt shall be a desolation,
And Edom a desolate wilderness,
Because of violence against the people of Judah,
For they have shed innocent blood in their land. (Joel 3:19)

11 Thus says the Lord: “For three transgressions of Edom, and for four,
I will not turn away its punishment,
Because he pursued his brother with the sword,
And cast off all pity;
His anger tore perpetually,
And he kept his wrath forever. (Amos 1:11)

8 “Will I not in that day,” says the Lord,”Even destroy the wise men from Edom, And understanding from the mountains of Esau? 9 Then your mighty men, O Teman, shall be dismayed, To the end that everyone from the mountains of Esau
May be cut off by slaughter.
10 “For violence against your brother Jacob, Shame shall cover you, And you shall be cut off forever. 11 In the day that you stood on the other side— In the day that strangers carried captive his forces, When foreigners entered his gates
And cast lots for Jerusalem— Even you were as one of them. (Obadiah 8-11)

17 “Edom also shall be an astonishment;
Everyone who goes by it will be astonished
And will hiss at all its plagues.
18 As in the overthrow of Sodom and Gomorrah
And their neighbors,” says the Lord,
“No one shall remain there,
Nor shall a son of man dwell in it. (Jeremiah 49:17-18)

Though, like others, salvation will be available to the Turks (see Universal Offer of Salvation: There Are Hundreds of Verses in the Bible Supporting the Doctrine of True Apocatastasis). Yet apparently because the Turks are expected to betray Israel, God has a special punishment first.

So, Turkey apparently will have serious negative involvement with the nation of Israel in a relatively short period of time. Prophetically, the Turks will likely be surprised by their roles and what will happen to them.  So, likely, will many in the world.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

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 (including Iran and Turkey). What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi?
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?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe?
Mary, the Mother of Jesus and the Apparitions Do you know much about Mary? Are the apparitions real? What happened at Fatima? What might they mean for the rise of the ecumenical religion of Antichrist? Are Protestants moving towards Mary? How do the Orthodox view Mary? How might Mary view her adorers?
Catholic Prophecies: Do They Mirror, Highlight, or Contradict Biblical Prophecies? People of all faiths may be surprised to see what various Roman and Orthodox Catholic prophets have been predicting as many of their predictions will be looked to in the 21st century.