Church of God News

John Kerry, Official Portrait

COGwriter

The US Secretary of State claims that since the Europeans are close allies, the USA will share more espionage with them and not override some of Europe’s privacy concerns:

November 5, 2013

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry says the Obama administration will work more closely with allies to overcome privacy concerns raised by the revelation of U.S. intelligence operations in Europe. In Poland, Kerry discussed the spy scandal and efforts to end Syria’s civil war.

Kerry says the Obama administration welcomes the opportunity to discuss concerns raised by the disclosure of U.S. eavesdropping as Washington and its European allies are all trying to balance the protection and privacy of their citizens.

“Ultimately if we get it right, which we will, we can not only alleviate concerns but we can actually strengthen our intelligence relationships going forward, and we can all be more secure and safer as a result as well as protecting the privacy of citizens,” he said.  http://www.voanews.com/content/kerry-us-to-work-closely-with-allies-over-surveillance-concerns/1783733.html

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November 5, 2013

“We need to understand that we are all in this together,” Kerry said. “We are all in the effort to be able to provide protection to our citizens. And we have to strike the right balance between protecting our citizens and obviously the privacy of all our citizens. That is a balance that we do try to strike.”

Kerry said President Obama had ordered a complete review of NSA’s activities.  http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57610820/kerry-tells-europeans-nsa-will-strike-right-balance-between-security-and-privacy/

I do not believe that the NSA (National Security Agency) scandal is actually strengthening the relationship between the USA and Europe.  Instead, it has shown the Europeans that the USA does not trust the continental Europeans and does not consider them to be ‘close friends’ (which is how the USA officially views the Anglo-nations of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom–these plus the USA are called ‘the five eyes’–see Karl Guttenberg and others on negative impact of USA surveillance. Who are the ‘five eyes’?).

The USA got caught spying, is embarrassed that it got caught, and now it trying to figure out how to control the damage the revelations of what is has done will affect it in the future.  How well it will actually ‘protect’ privacy concerns of Europe is a big question.  And presuming that the USA is again perceived as violating them again, this will truly add insult to injury–and these are insults that the Europeans will tend to remember for a long time.

Now, in an attempt to appease the continental Europeans, the USA is going to reveal much that perhaps it should not, restrict some of its espionage against Europe, and basically (unintentionally) help set Europe up to fulfill prophecies for the coming Beast power (such as those in Revelation 13:15-17).  Appeasement does not have a great track record in preventing wars as those who followed Nevil Chamberlain will remember.  But appeasement is what the USA appears to be trying to do.

The statements from US Secretary of State Kerry provide further support of my assessment that the USA will help Europe by giving it strategic advantages against the USA when someone there decides war against the USA needs to happen (Isaiah 10:5-11).  This will not bode well for the USA in the long run–this sharing of intelligence will help the coming European Beast power takeover the land that had the strongest military/fortresses in the world (cf. Daniel 11:39).  These espionage matters are that important.

Some items of related interest may include:

The Snowden Leaks are Leading to the Destruction of the USA Can what happened with the leaks of what the NSA has done help the USA to be taken over? What does the Bible teach that seems to be related to this?
Will USA Spying Help the Beast Power? Various allegations have surfaced about the United States government spying on its own citizens as well as its supposed allies in the European Union. Whether or not all the espionage allegations are true, and the main ones have not been publicly denied by the government of the USA, the reality is that this does have prophetic ramifications and will help the Beast of Revelation. This video provides quotes from the Bible showing how this is so. The USA is placing itself in a position to be taken over and its response to the allegations will make it easier for the Europeans to do so.
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?
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? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves?
Will the UK Lose Gibraltar and the Falkland Islands? Spain wants Gibraltar and Argentina wants the Falklands (also known as the Malvinas). Does the Bible give clues as to what will happen with these ‘sea gates’? A related video would be Will the UK Lose Gibraltar and the Falkland Islands? A version in Spanish is ¿Perderá el Reino Unido a Gibraltar y las Islas Falkland (Malvinas)?
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.
Protestant and Church of God views of the United States in Bible Prophecy Is the USA mentioned in Bible prophecy? Some Protestants say yes, while others say no. What does the Bible really teach? Learn the truth about this. There is also a video available: Is The United States Mentioned In Bible Prophecy?
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no Final End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West? Here is a version in the Spanish language: ¿Quién es el Rey del Occidente? ¿Por qué no hay un Rey del Occidente en la profecía del tiempo del fin?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term 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 a Republican choice. 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 Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-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-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

Astrological Signs

COGwriter

The Continuing Church of God is pleased to announce its latest suggested sermonette which is at its ContinuingCOG channel.

15:46

Astrology, the occult, tattoos, and pornography

Is there any credibility in astrology? If so, should Bible-believers be involved? What does the Bible teach about the occult? What about tattoos? What would God have you do? While temporarily in the USA from China, Jay Chiang spoke in Arroyo Grande, CA about astrology, abortion, tattoos, pornography, demonism, and various aspects of the occult, as well as how Christians should live.

Again, here is a link to the sermonette video: Astrology, the occult, tattoos, and pornography.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Bible and Astrology Should Christians avoid participating in astrology or did God inspire it? Does the Bible encourage astrology? What does the Bible actually teach? What is astrology? How does astrology differ from astronomy? Should Christians Be Involved In Astrology?
OMENS? DIVINATION? HOROSCOPES? THE ORIGIN OF ASTROLOGY Where did astrology come from? Should you read your horoscope?
Does Astrology Work? Many believe and follow astrology–but does it work?
Close Encounters of a ‘Spirit’ Kind discusses some experiences I believe were (demon) ‘spirit’ related.
Angels, Cherubim, and Seraphim This is information about various types of angelic beings.
Did God Create a Devil? If not, what happened? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet.
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading.
Bible: Superstition or Authority? Should you rely on the Bible? Is it reliable? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject.
Did Early Christians Celebrate Birthdays? Did biblical era Jews celebrate birthdays? Who originally celebrated birthdays? When did many that profess Christ begin birthday celebrations?
Tattoos: History and Biblical Teachings Would you like to know more about the history of tattoos, social concerns about tattoos, health risks of tattoos, and what the Bible teaches about them? Here is a related video titled Should Christians Get a Tattoo?
Pornography: A scourge on society Is pornography harmless fun? Does the Bible teach anything about it? What are the views of some involved with it? Here is a link to a YouTube video Pornography: Harmless Fun or a Scourge on Society?
British and American Moral Decay Public nudity is becoming more prevalent in the Anglo-lands. What are some of the consequences?
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 real Church of God? Some may also, or instead, wish to view the YouTube video Abortion, the Bible, and US Debt.
Why Were You Born? Why did God make you? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject. You may also wish to read the article What is Your Destiny? or watch the video, also titled What is Your Destiny?
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? There is also a video titled What is the meaning of your life?
Living as a Christian: How and Why? In what ways do Christians live differently than others. What about praying, fasting, tithing, holy days, and the world? There is also a YouTube video related to that also called: Living as a Christian: How and Why?

COGwriter

A reader sent me a couple of items about Europe:

The unemployment rate in the eurozone is higher than it has ever been before.  This week we learned that eurozone unemployment came in at an all-time high of 12.2 percent for September.  Back in January 2012, it was sitting at just 10.4 percent.  So anyone that believes that “things are getting better” in Europe is just being delusional.  In fact, the economic depression in Europe just keeps getting deeper.  http://theeconomiccollapseblog.com/archives/all-time-high-unemployment-the-economic-depression-in-europe-just-keeps-getting-deeper

Southern Europe is on a precipice

The super-power currency – the euro – has become a curse http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/eu/10421663/Southern-Europe-is-on-a-precipice.html

Here is another news item:

According to new figures issued by the Eurostat data agency, unemployment across the 17-country euro zone hit a record 12.2 percent in September. An additional 60,000 people registered as unemployed, bringing the jobless total in the euro zone to 19.5 million. Eurostat also revised upwards its jobless figure for August from 12.0 percent to 12.2 percent.

The official jobless rates in both Greece and Spain are well over 25 percent. Unemployment in France rose to 11.1 percent in September from 11 percent in August, while in Italy the rate climbed to 12.5 percent from 12.4 percent…

The Eurostat figures notoriously underestimate the real level of unemployment, not taking into account those who have given up looking for work or the millions who want full-time employment but have been forced to take a part-time job.

The situation for youth seeking employment is even more disastrous, although not accurately reflected in the Eurostat figures on youth unemployment. The agency reported that youth unemployment in Greece in September was 57 percent…

Far from retreating from their relentless imposition of austerity measures, which have created a social catastrophe for tens of millions in Europe, politicians in Brussels and Berlin are planning to intensify them…At the same time, the huge sums of money being made available to investors by the European Central Bank and the world’s other central banks is fueling new speculative bubbles.   http://www.globalresearch.ca/european-unemployment-hits-new-high/5356603?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=european-unemployment-hits-new-high

There will be riots and civil unrest in Europe.  More severe social unrest and rioting is expected in Greece and many other parts of Europe.

Let me add that I have been in Europe twice this year and the places I visited did not look like they were set to have riots or civil unrest (even the last time I was in Greece it did not APPEAR to be close to rioting, but there were some since).  But appearances can be deceiving.

Because of unemployment pressures, immigration issues, clashes with Islam, debt issues, and issues with the Euro, civil unrest is coming.  These issues will be factors in the rise of a leader that the Bible refers to as the King of the North (Daniel 11:21-44).  He, and probably technology, will help bring Europe out of certain of its problems and he will be proclaimed a hero for doing so.  The world will watch and marvel (Revelation 13:1-4).

While some question how this could happen in Europe, the Bible teaches that Europe will have strong and weak parts (Daniel 2:41-43), reorganize (Revelation 17:12-13), and, despite its current irreligious tendencies, support a particular religion (Revelation 13). Europe already has strong and weak parts and keeps discussing a variety of forms of reorganization.

The USA itself is not immune to to civil unrest, and when it has a series of physical crises hit it and its debt hampers it, massive rioting is likely there as well. Unrest in the USA is discussed in my book Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term.  The latest cuts in food stamps in the USA, combined with items to come, may be factors in that coming unrest.

We are likely to riots in many places. Jesus foretold a time of “troubles” (Mark 13:8) and civil unrest and protests are consistent with that.

On other European matters, notice that Europe wants a spy system like that of the USA:

BRUSSELS – EU justice commissionner Viviane Reding has said the Union should create its own intelligence service by 2020.
Speaking on Monday (4 November) to Greek daily Naftemporiki on the US snooping scandal, she said: “What we need is to strengthen Europe in this field, so we can level the playing field with our US partners.”

She added: “I would therefore wish to use this occasion to negotiate an agreement on stronger secret service co-operation among the EU member states – so that we can speak with a strong common voice to the US. The NSA needs a counterweight. My long-term proposal would therefore be to set up a European Intelligence Service by 2020.”  http://euobserver.com/justice/121979

I have been reporting for some time that Europe would need something like that in order to fulfill various prophecies, such as those in Revelation 13:14-17–and now some of its leaders are publicly admitting that is what they want and need.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

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? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
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? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
Will USA Spying Help the Beast Power? Various allegations have surfaced about the United States government spying on its own citizens as well as its supposed allies in the European Union. Whether or not all the espionage allegations are true, and the main ones have not been publicly denied by the government of the USA, the reality is that this does have prophetic ramifications and will help the Beast of Revelation. This video provides quotes from the Bible showing how this is so. The USA is placing itself in a position to be taken over and its response to the allegations will make it easier for the Europeans to do so.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term 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 a Republican choice. 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 Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-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-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

COGwriter

The US Navy is now embroiled in its own release of secrets and sex scandal:

November 4, 2013

Feds: Navy secrets sold for hookers and Lady Gaga tix

The gregarious Malaysian businessman nicknamed “Fat Leonard” is well known by U.S. Navy commanders in the Pacific. But prosecutors in court papers say Leonard Francis worked his connections to obtain military secrets by arranging prostitutes, Lady Gaga tickets and other bribes for a U.S. commander, in a scandal reverberating across the Navy…

So far, authorities have arrested Misiewicz; Francis; his company’s general manager of global government contracts, Alex Wisidagama; and a senior Navy investigator, John Beliveau II. Beliveau is accused of keeping Francis updated on the investigation and advising him on how to respond in exchange for luxury trips, prostitution services, and more.

All have pleaded not guilty…Senior Navy officials said they believe that more people would likely be implicated in the scheme, but it’s too early to tell how many or how high this will go in the naval ranks.  http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57610640/feds-navy-secrets-sold-for-hookers-and-lady-gaga-tix/

While prostitution, sex scandals, and pornography are not new, more and more we are seeing these type of scandals pop up involving US government officials.  There have been those involving top level military leaders as well as the US Secret Service.

The moral trend in the USA is going the wrong direction.

I read, last week I believe, that Lady Gaga recently performed part or all of her latest ‘concert’ fully nude.  She apparently calls this ‘performance art,’ I consider it to be pornography and a sign of moral decline.

What will be next?

It is likely that other singers will perform in the nude.  It is likely that more and more simulated sexual activity will be in concerts.  Actual sexual acts may also be in the future for certain ‘concerts.’

Pornography: A scourge on society Is pornography harmless fun? Does the Bible teach anything about it? What are the views of some involved with it? Here is a link to a YouTube video Pornography: Harmless Fun or a Scourge on Society?
British and American Moral Decay Public nudity is becoming more prevalent in the Anglo-lands. What are some of the consequences?
Love, Marriage, and Sex It is important to get them in the right order.
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 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?
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 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?
Will USA Spying Help the Beast Power? Various allegations have surfaced about the United States government spying on its own citizens as well as its supposed allies in the European Union. Whether or not all the espionage allegations are true, and the main ones have not been publicly denied by the government of the USA, the reality is that this does have prophetic ramifications and will help the Beast of Revelation. This video provides quotes from the Bible showing how this is so. The USA is placing itself in a position to be taken over and its response to the allegations will make it easier for the Europeans to do so.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term 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 a Republican choice. 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 Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-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-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

Mohamed Morsi, Official Photograph

COGwriter

Egypt’s President Morsi is becoming controversial, but seems to be working towards a particular type of Islamic agenda, while some protest:

November 4, 2013

CAIRO — From president to prisoner – former Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi made his first public appearance since his ouster in July –  he sat before a criminal court Monday.  His moment in the spotlight was brief.

It was over almost as soon as it began.  The trial of ousted president Mohamed Morsi was adjourned shortly into the first session, after defendants began chanting in protest.

Reports from inside the courtroom say Morsi, who was deposed by the military after popular protests, rejected the proceedings, telling judges he remained the nation’s legitimate president.

Morsi and 14 members of his Muslim Brotherhood and former government face charges of inciting murder during protests against him last December.  If found guilty, he could face the death penalty.

The start of the trial was delayed because Morsi rejected wearing the traditional white jumpsuit of defendants.

Security was on high alert after a last minute switch of venue to a police academy on the outskirts of Cairo – the same complex where Morsi’s predecessor, the also-ousted Hosni Mubarak, was tried.

The interior ministry has deployed 20,000 security forces to forestall more of the unrest that has seen more than 1000 people killed since Morsi’s overthrow and authorities began a crackdown on his supporters and other Islamists.

Members of the Anti-Coup Alliance took to the streets across the nation again Monday against what they see as a purely political trial, focusing on court buildings in Cairo and elsewhere…

State media say Morsi’s trial is set to resume January 8.  http://www.voanews.com/content/egypt-set-to-begin-morsi-trial/1782641.html

While various ones have concerns about him, Dr. Morsi was elected by the people of Egypt and removed by way of a military coup.  If this type of thing happened in the USA, there would also be protesters who would condemn such a trial as a sham and a political move.

Eventually, the moves against Dr. Morsi will backfire even more. Dr. Morsi has long been a member of a group known as the Muslim Brotherhood–a group that had been illegal in Egypt for decades (and has been declared basically illegal again by the military-backed government that is currently in charge).

When Dr. Morsi was responsible for the official website of the Muslim Brotherhood, it put up an article that stated the following:

The Muslim Brethren…believe that the caliphate is a symbol of Islamic Union and an indication of the bonds between the nations of Islam. They see the caliphate and its re-establishment as a top priority, subsequently; an association of Muslims people should be set up, which would elect the imam”. (zhyntativ. HASAN AL-BANNA AND HIS POLITICAL THOUGHT OF ISLAMIC BROTHERHOOD. IkhwanWeb, May 13, 2008. http://www.ikhwanweb.com/article.php?id=17065 viewed 09/22/11)

What is the Muslim Brotherhood?
The world’s largest and most influential Islamist movement…“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/Caliph. And while it will not get all the territory it wants, it is likely to end up in some type of confederation with at least most of North Africa and the Middle East. This appears to be a Sunni Muslim goal and is consistent with the territory that the King of the South of Bible prophecy will lead:

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. (Daniel 11:40-42).

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).

The Bible is clear that a confederation of nations, including Egypt, will arise.

Though Dr. Morsi will have issues, the reality is that what his group is working on, will happen. Egyptian involvement with the final King of the South is prophesied and despite show trials, etc., a king of the south similar to what the Muslim Brotherhood wants will rise up.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is the Future King of the South Rising Up? Some no longer believe there needs to be a future King of the South. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi or Caliph? What does the Bible say? A YouTube video of related interest may be: The Future King of the South is Rising.
The Muslim Brotherhood and the Rise of the King of the South The Bible tells of the formation of a power of nations that are in the Middle East and North Africa that are part of the final “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40-43) The Muslim Brotherhood wishes to have an Islamic empire with basically the same nations. This YouTube video explains what to expect from such a confederation.
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? An item of possibly related interest in the Spanish language would be: Líderes iraníes condenan la hipocresía de Occidente y declaran que ahora es tiempo para prepararse para el Armagedón, la guerra, y el Imán Mahdi.
Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar Assad hold power as he has it? Does the Bible show that Damascus, the capital of Syria, will be destroyed? What will happen to Syria? Will the Syrians support the final King of the South that the Bible tells will rise up? Which scriptures discuss the rise and fall of an Arabic confederation? Does Islamic prophecy predict the destruction of Syria. This is a YouTube video.
What Should You Know About Turkey in Prophecy Do you know the Turkish people descended from? Did the Ottoman Empire possibly fulfill a promise in Genesis? Will Turkey support the European King of the North or Arabic King of the South? Will it betray one of them? Will Turkey be involved in the encouraging the destruction of Israel? Is Turkey going to become Catholic? Is Turkey mentioned in Psalm 83, Daniel 11, and elsewhere in the Bible? This video provides answers.
Is There an Islamic Antichrist? Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.
Barack Obama in Islamic Prophecy? There is actually a 17th century Shiite prophecy that some believe that Barack Obama will fulfill that will lead to a rising up of Islam.
Arabic Nazarenes May Have Kept Original Christian Practices Were their faithful Arabs who held to original Christianity?
Nazarene Christianity: Were the Original Christians Nazarenes? Should Christians be Nazarenes today? What were the practices of the Nazarenes.

The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

COGwriter

Homosexual activists have been emboldened and believe that they now have a chance for all states in the USA:

Emboldened, gay marriage activists eye 50 states

Same-sex couples file more lawsuits, and more public officials defy gay marriage bans after Supreme Court’s ruling on DOMA.

The Supreme Court ruling that struck down parts of the Defense of Marriage Act in June opened the door to an explosion of activity by gay marriage proponents.

Today, they are waging their campaign on several fronts: filing lawsuits, encouraging public officials to defy state bans on gay marriage, and stepping up a push for state legislation.

Since June, couples have filed 23 lawsuits to end bans in 21 states; governors and state attorneys general in at least three states have refused to defend their state bans in court; and county clerks in four states have issued marriage licenses to gay couples despite laws against it…

The flurry of activity has given Patrick Bova and James Darby of Chicago hope that they might see what was once unimaginable in their 50 years as a couple: legal gay marriage in all 50 states.  http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/11/02/gay-marriage-states-supreme-court/3175799/

Biblically, a marriage exist as a relationship between a man and woman as God intended.  But, many in the USA do not really care what the Bible teaches.  And this is dangerous and will lead to destruction (cf. Romans 1:18-32).

Last June Russia’s Pravda put out a paper that had some interesting comments about the USA:

Russian Paper Says “Weak Eyed Obama” Is Leader Of Sodom & Gomorrah…

“The US is broke and Russia is the world’s largest oil producer with a growing economy. Russia is not backing down and they have China to back them up. Who will back the US? Tiny Britain? Americans are turning gay and Russian men are looking more like the Klitschko brothers. The US is the modern day Sodom and Gomorrah while Christianity triumphs in Russia. No ACLU in Russia suing Christians to be sure. The largest country in the world shows only contempt at the US Bomb & Missile Diplomacy.”  http://freedomoutpost.com/2013/06/russian-paper-says-weak-eyed-obama-is-leader-of-sodom-gomorrah-following-g8-summit/#ixzz2XKb3UkSu

In September 2013, Russia’s President Putin made some interesting observations:

A further challenge (=Danger) for the national Russian identity is connected to the processes we observe outside of Russia. They include foreign policy, moral and other aspects.

We see that many Euro-Atlantic (= the West) States have taken a course where they deny or reject their own roots, including their Christian roots which form the basis of Western civilisation.

In these countries, the moral basis and any traditional identity are being denied – national, religious, cultural and even gender identities are being denied or relativised.

There, politics treats a family with many children as equal to a homosexual partnership (juridically); faith in God is equal to faith in Satan.

The excesses and exaggerations of Political Correctness in these countries indeed leads to serious consideration for the legitimisation of parties that promote the propaganda of paedophilia.

VIDEO (3 min.):  http://www.mrctv.org/videos/russian-president-putin-defends-christian-culture-western-values-condemns-political-correctness

SOURCE: http://gatesofvienna.net/2013/10/for-gods-sake-listen-to-him/

When I grew up, it was the USA that sometimes would stand for biblical morality and Russia distanced itself from the Bible.  While Russia still has issues, it has changed in several ways for the better, while the USA has gone the opposite way.

The Bible tells of an early event that occurred in the towns of Sodom and Gomorrah between three thousand and four thousand years ago:

24 Then the Lord rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah, from the Lord out of the heavens. 25 So He overthrew those cities, all the plain, all the inhabitants of the cities, and what grew on the ground. (Genesis 19:24-25)

And why did it happen?

7 as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. (Jude 7)

Homosexuality is a form of sexual immorality that involves going after “strange flesh.”

Why mention this in the 21st century?

Because God turned:

6…the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly (2 Peter 2:6)

Thus, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah were to serve as an example to those who would live as they did. Yet despite biblical warnings, many modern leaders are endorsing so-called homosexual “rights” and “same-sex marriage.” The Bible, however, warns about such leaders:

12…Those who lead you cause you to err, And destroy the way of your paths. (Isaiah 3:12)

16 For the leaders of this people cause them to err, And those who are led by them are destroyed (Isaiah 9:16).

So, leaders that ignore what the Bible teaches are leading others toward destruction. The Russians seem to understand enough of the Bible to realize that what the USA is turning into is a modern Sodom and Gomorrah.

Yet, not everyone in Sodom and Gomorrah were homosexuals as those that strictly practice that could not reproduce. Yet, notice that the destruction that hit their cities destroyed all that were there and notice that something like this is to happen again according to Jesus:

26 And as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: 27 They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. 28 Likewise as it was also in the days of Lot: They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built; 29 but on the day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all. (Luke 17:26-29)

Various ones can pretend that increasing “homosexual rights” is acceptable, but the Bible suggests otherwise. A marriage as the above indicates, as do other scriptures (e.g. Matthew 19:4-5), is between a man and woman (for more details see God Created Marriage). Not two of the same sex.

Homosexual acts are clearly prohibited in the Bible:

22 You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination. (Leviticus 18:22)

13 If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. (Leviticus 20:13)

Those who try to claim that the Bible does not clearly condemn homosexuality are intentionally misreading what it actually teaches. The Bible prohibits and condemns homosexual behavior–the Bible calls it an abomination!

Notice also the following:

9 The look on their countenance witnesses against them, And they declare their sin as Sodom; They do not hide it. Woe to their soul! For they have brought evil upon themselves. (Isaiah 3:9)

13 The fear of the Lord is to hate evil; Pride and arrogance and the evil way And the perverse mouth I hate. (Proverbs 8:13)

18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18)

49 Look, this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: She and her daughter had pride, fullness of food, and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. 50 And they were haughty and committed abomination before Me; therefore I took them away as I saw fit. (Ezekiel 16:49-50)

So the Bible shows that Sodom was destroyed for many things including its pride and the committing of abominations. Homosexuality is an abomination.

The Bible also warns against accepting and condoning practices such as homosexuality and lesbianism, which is something that the USA is doing:

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness…

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

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

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. (Romans 1:18,24-32)

The ‘gay’ agenda will end in destruction. Yet various leaders in the USA, including its President, are promoting it. They apparently do not take the warnings of the Bible seriously. And the Russians are right that the USA is in decline.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Bible Condemns Homosexuality “Same-sex marriage” for “gays” and lesbians is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality? Can homosexuals change?
Cross-dressing and other assaults against your children. What should you do? Is there an agenda to turn your children and/or grandchildren away from biblical morality and towards practices promoted by homosexuals? What does the Bible teach about cross-dressing? What should parents do? If there is an agenda, what has been going on? There is also a YouTube video on this, titled Cross dressing and Other Assaults Against Your Children.
Love, Marriage, and Sex It is important to get them in the right order.
Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North?
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?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term 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 a Republican choice. 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 Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-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-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

The Continuing Church of God is pleased to announce its latest suggested sermon which is at its ContinuingCOG channel.

1:03:12

Sermons on the Mounts

Jesus spoke the beatitudes on a mountain. He also gave a sermon on the Mount of Olives about the signs of the end, beginning of sorrows, and the Great Tribulation. Jesus also gave a message from the Mount of Olives when He ascended into heaven. Dr. Thiel covers these scriptures and sermons from the Mount of Olives in Israel. Specifically covering Matthew 5,6,7,24, & 25 and Acts 1.

Here is another link to the sermon: Sermons on the Mounts

Some items of possibly related interest may include the following:

What did Jesus teach in the Book of Mark?  Jesus said to teach His followers all that He commanded (Matthew 29:19-20). This sermon covers what Jesus commanded in the Gospel account written by Mark. It provides a small amount of historical background, but mainly focuses on the teachings of Jesus starting with His proclamation of the gospel of the kingdom until the end of the book.
Living as a Christian: How and Why? In what ways do Christians live differently than others. What about praying, fasting, tithing, holy days, and the world? There is also a YouTube video related to that also called: Living as a Christian: How and Why?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2013, 2014, or 2015? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? Here is a version of the article in the Spanish language: ¿Puede comenzar la Gran Tribulación en 2013 o 2014? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? You can also see the English language video The Great Tribulation Will Not Begin Before 2017.

Vladimir Putin (www.kremlin.ru)

COGwriter

Notice how the following news item starts out related to the Eurasian Union:

When Vladimir Putin announced his intention to press for a so-called ‘Eurasian Union’ in the run-up to the 2012 presidential elections, his statement was widely dismissed as a pre-electoral ploy, playing as it did to the nostalgia for an idealised Soviet past held by part of the Russian population…

Two years later, it is becoming increasingly difficult to so lightly dismiss the Eurasian Customs Union (ECU – the project’s current incarnation) as a mere electoral manoeuvre… Proponents of the Eurasian Union stress that its membership is entirely voluntary…But the sheer demographic weight, economic mass and geographic breadth of the Russian Federation would also make it overwhelmingly dominant by default, even if it were to expand to include all former Soviet Republics excluding the Balts. As it stands, the Eurasian Customs Union would have a very Russian flavour indeed; and one would have to be alert as to how its overall legislative framework would evolve as it expands….

Should Putin’s assertions as to the mere voluntary ‘economic rationalities’ inherent in the ECU be taken at face value? The Soviet Union might be well and truly dead in the minds of Russian policymakers, but Russia has in recent years clearly come to define the economic sphere as one where it could and should play a defining role in the Eurasian space…

The Eurasian Union may not quite be the Soviet Empire, but it could turn into a tool of more subtle domination nevertheless. http://www.isn.ethz.ch/Digital-Library/Articles/Detail/?lng=en&id=171902

As regular readers of this news page are aware, I never dismissed the fact that Vladimir Putin was serious about attempting to form a confederation like the Eurasian Union.

Instead, I have been writing for years that the Bible teaches some version of a Russian-led Asian confederation will form (see Russia’s Putin Still Working for Eurasian Union).  And also after he was elected again in 2012, I wrote that I felt he would work on the Eurasian Union, I did not dismiss his statements as mere election rhetoric (see Russia Votes for Putin: What Might this Mean?)

Additionally, to address the last point in the article shown above, no the final Eurasian confederation will not be the old Soviet Union–it will be much larger geographically, have many more people (including an army of at 200,000,000, which exceeds the current population of Russia), and end up militarily exercising its might on a massive scale.

Notice the following:

50:41 “Behold, a people shall come from the north,
And a great nation and many kings
Shall be raised up from the ends of the earth.
42 They shall hold the bow and the lance;
They are cruel and shall not show mercy.
Their voice shall roar like the sea;
They shall ride on horses,
Set in array, like a man for the battle,
Against you, O daughter of Babylon.
43 “The king of Babylon has heard the report about them,
And his hands grow feeble;
Anguish has taken hold of him,
Pangs as of a woman in childbirth…”(Jeremiah 50:41-43).

1 The burden against Babylon which Isaiah the son of Amoz saw.
2 “Lift up a banner on the high mountain,Raise your voice to them;Wave your hand, that they may enter the gates of the nobles. 3 I have commanded My sanctified ones;I have also called My mighty ones for My anger–Those who rejoice in My exaltation.” 4 The noise of a multitude in the mountains, Like that of many people! A tumultuous noise of the kingdoms of nations gathered together! The LORD of hosts musters The army for battle. 5 They come from a far country, From the end of heaven–The LORD and His weapons of indignation, To destroy the whole land. 6 Wail, for the day of the LORD is at hand!It will come as destruction from the Almighty. 7 Therefore all hands will be limp, Every man’s heart will melt, 8 And they will be afraid. Pangs and sorrows will take hold of them; They will be in pain as a woman in childbirth; They will be amazed at one another; Their faces will be like flames (Isaiah 13:1-8).

11 Calling a bird of prey from the east, The man who executes My counsel, from a far country. Indeed I have spoken it; I will also bring it to pass. I have purposed it; I will also do it. (Isaiah 46:11)

The Bible is discussing a far northern power to rise up in the end that has nations from the east (Asia) to support it.  While it may or may not be called the Eurasian Union, it will still happen.

And some are starting to recognize that steps towards such a union are really taking place.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Eurasian Union, the Kings of the East, and Bible Prophecy Is there a Eurasian union that will be formed? Is one being formed right now? Are any leaders working on that in the 21st century? Does the Bible teach that there will be a Eurasian union? If some type of Eurasian union is formed, who might it benefit and who will it destroy? A related video would be Is The Eurasian Union Rising?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North?
Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 Who is 666? This article explains how the COG views this, and compares this to Ellen White.
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? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
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? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
India, Its Biblical Past and Future: Any Witness?The Bible discusses the origins of those of Indian heritage. This article quotes the Bible and also discusses some of the witness to India throughout history and what is happening in the 21st century (including those in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka).
Might Hindus Unknowingly Be Looking for the Arrival of the Beast and False Prophet? Do biblical and even Hindu prophecies suggest that many in India will follow, for a while, the Beast and False Prophet/Antichrist?
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? A YouTube video of interest may be Is China THE Threat to the United States of America?

COGwriter

Sunday at two a.m., the USA and some other nations changed their clocks to go back to Standard Time and off of Daylight Savings Time:

It’s that time of year again.

The “fall back” day is coming to clocks across the nation. Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3…
Remember, you’ll “fall back” and set your clocks back one hour. Many electronic devices automatically adjust when Daylight Savings Time begins or ends. http://ames.patch.com/articles/fall-back-daylight-saving-time-2012-ends-sunday-4b97ab65

Daylight saving time 2013 will end Sunday at 2 a.m., so it’ll be best to set your clocks back an hour before retiring for the night on Saturday. Soon, many of us can expect to wake up in the dark, and come home from work in the dark, too, as there’s more than the clock at play: The time shift will be compounded by shorter day lengths. http://www.newsday.com/lifestyle/home-and-garden/garden-detective-1.812029/out-with-daylight-saving-time-in-with-standard-time-1.6362279

Because of that, sunset will be over an hour earlier this Friday.  This change happened in Europe and Israel when I was there last Sunday.

Those of us who observe the weekly Sabbath from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday may wish to remember this time change.  In my own case, we will have to close our office earlier than normal for the next several months on Fridays.

This will affect not only those in the Churches of God, but others who keep the seventh-day Sabbath such as observant Jews and Seventh-day Adventists.

Here is a link for Sunset Times for the U.S.A. (and international cities if longitudinal location is known).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is Revelation 1:10 talking about Sunday or the Day of the Lord? Most Protestant scholars say Sunday is the Lord’s Day, but is that what the Bible teaches?
The Sabbath in the Early Church and Abroad Was the seventh-day (Saturday) Sabbath observed by the apostolic and post-apostolic Church?
The Dramatic Story of Chinese Sabbathkeepers This reformatted Good News article from 1955 discusses Sabbath-keeping in China in the 1800s.
Is God Unreasonable? Some have suggested that if God requires Sabbath-keeping He is unreasonable. Is that true?
SDA/COG Differences: Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 The genuine Church of God is NOT part of the Seventh-day Adventists. This article explains two prophetic differences, the trinity, differences in approaching doctrine, including Ellen White. Did Ellen White make prophetic errors? Did Ellen White make false prophecies?
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by the Tkach 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.

COGwriter

The latest issue (#155, print date September-October 2013) of The Journal was sent out electronically several hours ago.

There were two items that I felt readers of this page might be interested in.  The first had to do with someone named Richard Burkhard trying to secretly visit the headquarters’ Feast of Tabernacle’s location for the improperly named Philadelphia Church of God (PCG).  Here is some of what he wrote:

I quietly asked a man standing outside a church-convention business office a biblically suggestive question: “I was a stranger and you took me in?”

His answer was a disappointing shake of the head. No, he would not let me attend the Feast of Tabernacles, even though his group considers it a commanded annual assembly for believers in God. We stood inside Armstrong Auditorium in Edmond, Okla., the showcase building of the Philadelphia Church of God (PCG), on Sept. 19, 2013.

If I had purchased a ticket to one of the auditorium’s artistic events, there probably would have been no issues. But attending a “free” worship service on a Thursday morning clearly was another matter. “Only baptized members of the Philadelphia Church of God can attend,” the man told me.

But there was something he didn’t know know. The Feast of Tabernacles had begun the night before, and, in a rarity for the PCG, an outsider had been allowed inside the auditorium’s main hall for a service from start to finish.

Driving down I-35 I hadn’t traveled to Edmond, the site of the PCG’s headquarters, to rescue someone from what some consider an oppressive and spurious church. I wasn’t there to recruit people away, or even cry aloud in the auditorium lobby as Jesus might have done in John 7. Armstrong Auditorium simply was the closest Feast site to my front door, and my job  situation allowed me to attend only on the holy days specified in the book of Leviticus, along with a weekend. It was my desire to worship God…

The PCG has gained a reputation as being far more restrictive than the old Worldwide Church of God ever was…

I admit I didn’t attempt to register in advance. I didn’t want anyone in Edmond to know an outsider was coming…

No recording allowed

The unnamed song leader made it clear during opening announcements that, while picture-taking was allowed almost everywhere (a change from Ambassador Auditorium, which restricted such things), no audio or video recording was allowed of any PCG messages. Copies wouldn’t even be sent to congregations after the Feast.

Nice special music

There were lengthy announcements about Feast rules, including an ominous note that only people wearing Feast badges were allowed inside the building. I wasn’t wearing one. An old one from prior Feasts I had attended would not have worked, because the PCG badges had a big picture of the Arm- strong Auditorium on them. After a flawless presentation of special music by a Feast choir, the main opening-night message was a video sermon by Pastor General Flurry…

Coded scriptures for the PCG

The Flurry focus was on how the books of Chronicles, Ezra and Nehemiah have a Feast-time “key of David” message. It’s a “coded message,” he said, that’s “specifically for the Philadelphia Church of God today.” Y et he turned to only two sections of 2 Chronicles during the opening video and cited a letter from Elijah in 2 Chron- icles 21 to buttress his claim that Mr. Armstrong contributed to the work of God beyond his death in 1986, as “shown in the book of James.” (You have to read Mr. Flurry’s booklet on Jeremiah to understand that, he said.)

Bricket Wood purchase delayed

Mr. Flurry admitted during his section on 2 Chronicles 21 that the PCG’s attempt to purchase the old Ambassador College campus in Bricket Wood, England, is “going slower than we would like.” He gave no other details.

Raising the universe’s ruins

Mr. Flurry said the future, which will include “raising the ruins of the entire universe,” promises to be “more beautiful than Herbert W. Arm- strong College.” Armstrong College (AC) was visible three times during his message, thanks to an overhead helicopter camera, with emphasis on Armstrong Auditorium and the Arm- strong Foundation office across the driveway. He revealed at one point the auditorium cost “upwards of $25 million,” including landscaping…

Security not sympathetic

Thursday promised two services, at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. I arrived for the morning service about 30 minutes in advance…

“Where’s your badge?” a man asked as I approached the door. I was directed toward a registration table in the building’s outer court, where I admitted my name was not on the roll My admission gained me an escorted trip inside to the business office, where my name again was missing.

I used to be registered with TheTrumpet.com but no longer remember my user name and password. At that point the business manager came out for the final discussion. He noticeably was not wearing a badge with “Armstrong Auditorium” on it. I tried to explain I attend with another Church of God group that had its closest Feast site much farther away. But I received no words of sympathy.

Only baptized members of PCG could attend, he said, perhaps forgetting the children some members brought with them. “You have to be of like mind,” he explained.

The Elijah question

I should have asked him what “like mind” meant. But I think I already knew the answer. He probably would have given me the “Elijah question,” asking if I believed Herbert Armstrong was the end-time Elijah. The PCG admitted in its magazine, The Trumpet, long ago that people were not invited to its services unless their answer to the Elijah question was yes.

“You’ve got to work on that,” the manager told me about my failure to belong to the PCG. “I brought a nice offering to give,” I said in a last attempt to persuade him. He shook his head. At least the PCG maintained principles similar to what Peter told Simon Magus in Acts 8:20.

I do not believe that Richard Burkhard should have tried to go there.  I am not convinced that PCG is truly a Church of God (though some of its members probably are truly COG).  Furthermore since PCG’s Feast of Tabernacles’ sites and weekly church services are not open to those that will not submit to some improper extra-biblical beliefs, it makes sense that he would have been asked to leave once he was found not to have gone along with PCG’s positions on those matters.

PCG’s Elijah position requirement to attend its services is not biblical.  It also has a variety of unbiblical positions.

The other article in this issue of The Journal that I wanted to quote part of here was by Reginald Killingley related to DNA:

With advances in science come advances in knowledge. We have arrived at a tipping point that prompts this submission of a modest proposal for a scientific research project. The project would attempt to ascertain whether there is a DNA basis for the theory of Anglo-Israelism…

Just recently, three studies employing such research were featured in popular news media. They describe some of the tools scientists have at their disposal to determine with considerable accuracy the movements across the miles and millennia of multiple peoples.

Different DNA lineages

According to National Geographic’s project, one study provided evidence that “the people who lived in Central Europe 7,000 years ago had different DNA lineages than those that lived there 5,000 years ago, and again different to those that lived 3,500 years ago.”

It showed definitively that from 5500 B.C. to 1500 B.C. the region that is today Germany saw at least four stages of significant migration and settlement. The stages were highlighted by marked shifts in the genetic composition of the popula- tions in the region. Researchers focus on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). This type of DNA is passed down, almost unchanged, from a mother to her children, thereby allowing geneticists to probe the maternal histories of populations.

Mutant sharings

By studying the mutations or changes in mtDNA sequences, re- searchers have been able to develop a record of maternal ancestry and to group different mtDNA lineages to- gether based on shared mutations. Another recent study focused on the ancestry of Ashkenazi Jews who dispersed into Central and Eastern Europe in the early Middle Ages. Their ancestors migrated from Pal- estine after the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in A.D. 70. Researchers analyzed mtDNA sequences from people across Europe, the Caucasus and the Middle East…

The theory traditionally used name markers as indicators of migration patterns, but now it’s possible to use genetic markers to indicate population transfers across geographic boundaries. (Killingley R. Are we the lost tribes? Check our DNA to find out.  The Journal: News of the Churches of God, September-October 2013, pp. 5,24)

I have done some highly limited research into this and do believe that DNA evidence does provide some support for the Anglo-Israel position.  That being said, in order to properly conduct such a DNA test would be expensive and more importantly would have to be properly set up–and that would be much more difficult than some seem to believe it would be.

I would also add that work involving skull shape has long supported at least parts of the Anglo-Israel position.

The Journal also had other articles and the usual advertisements and letters to the editor.

The Journal itself is available by paid subscription (though Dixon Cartwright says some subscriptions are free to those who cannot afford it) and often tends to take a non-Philadelphian era view of certain church matters.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Teachings Unique to the Philadelphia Church of God Simply calling oneself ‘Philadelphia’ does not make one so (see Revelation 3:7-9), nor does Gerald Flurry calling himself “that prophet” make it so. This article provides many quotes from this group which tries to look faithful.
The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians? Is this pilgrimage holy day still valid? Does it teach anything relevant for today’s Christians? What is the Last Great Day? What do these days teach?
The Elijah Heresies Does the Bible teach that there will be a future Elijah? Must it be Herbert W. Armstrong?
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? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. A video of possible interest may be Will Will USA Spying Help the Beast Power?
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? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
The Philadelphia Church Era was predominant circa 1933 A.D. to 1986 A.D. The old Radio Church of God and old Worldwide Church of God, now essentially the most faithful in the Church of God, which is best represented by the Continuing Church of God.
Statement of Beliefs of the Continuing Church of God “Contend earnestly for the faith once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3, NKJV),  “Let brotherly love (Philadelphia) continue” (Hebrews 13:1) “…continuing stedfastly in the teaching of the apostles” (Acts 2:42 YLT). So, what does that really mean in terms of specific beliefs? Here is a related link in Spanish/español: Declaración de las Doctrinas de la Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios. Here is a related link in Tagalog: Paglalahad ng Mga Paniniwala ng Patuloy na Iglesya ng Diyos. Here is a related link in Kiswahili: KATIKA LUGHA YA KISWAHILI.