Church of God News

“Elijah in the wilderness“

COGwriter

While numerous news items of prophetic interest were covered at this page in 2013, there are fifteen that stand out in my mind that I thought would be of interest to share today.

The following list is in the chronological order that this was announced at this page (though for some that continued existing trends, later dates, when something appeared, were sometimes used):

1. January 2013. The Continuing Church of God (CCOG) made various announcements (see Announcing the Official Website of the Continuing Church of God).  One was that it hit its gospel proclamation goal (see CCOG met COG proclamation goal).  Videos were produced for its two new YouTube channels (ContinuingCOG channel and Bible News Prophecy channel), radio audiences were reached, and readers on the internet were greatly reached. Many Church of God groups have claimed that they would be effective in gospel proclamation and/or reach on the internet, but few truly have been. Multiple millions (at least ten million) have been reached, and multiple languages have been employed. CCOG was so successful that a leader in a much larger group later attempted to discredit certain of the internet results (see LCG leader again continues to attempt to discredit).  Yet, the reality is that no COG group of this size has ever reached so many people in its first year.  Furthermore, CCOG is more popular on the internet than nearly all the COG groups.  The results are important prophetically as they show that CCOG does have the fruits to show that it can lead final phase of the work.
2. January 2013.  The USA increased its debt, as I said it would on a Bible News Prophecy video made on January 1, 2013 (see The Debt Crisis Will Be Worse Than Most Imagine).  Throughout 2013, the USA continued to have a variety of debt and budget crises, showed the world it really was not serious about fixing its problems, and increased its debt.  This will not end well per Habakkuk 2:6-8.
3. January 2013.  Budget factors affected US military spending (see US economy shrinks a small amount, defense cuts blamed).  All USA tanks were removed from Germany (see There are no longer USA tanks in Germany: Do Americans understand this is a serious risk?).  The US Army announced cuts (see US Army announces cuts), its Air Force warned about cuts (see Budget cuts to ground 1/3 of US Air Force), and Pentagon officials were also concerned about the US Navy (see Pentagon concerned about additional looming defense cuts–prophetic ramifications?).  Despite various compromises, certain government officials believe defense cuts are damaging the USA military (see US military being severely damaged by budget cuts).  The USA is also needing to shift its focus away from Europe and towards China (see Obama Adminstration shifting military towards Asia, including Korea) and this will not end well for the USA (cf. Daniel 11:39).
4. February 2013.  Pope Benedict XVI resigned and was replaced the next month with Pope Francis (see Argentinian is now Pope Francis).  Pope Francis almost immediately dedicated his pontificate to ‘Mary (see Pope Francis entrusts pontificate to ‘Mary’ and Cardinal hopes for Islamic cooperation), began to take steps that disturbed certain Catholics (see see Is Pope Francis Catholic? and Francis says he wants Rome less narcissistic and says he does not believe in a ‘Catholic God’ as he inaugurates a reform team), made a variety of economic statements (see Pope Francis claims he wants his church to be poor and help the poor and Will Pope Francis use some of the wealth of the Vatican to support the Beast and lure people to his faith? and Pope Francis speaks against current economic order and proposes changes), and has become one of the most Marian-focused popes in history (see Pope Francis: Could this Marian Focused Pontiff be Fulfilling Prophecy?).  He either will be the final antipope of Catholic prophecy or antichrist of biblical prophecy or is setting the stage for the arrival of such a person.
5. March 2013.  Homosexual marriage apparently became more ‘acceptable’ to various ones.  In both the USA (see Obama Administration pleads that the Supreme Court should overturn DOMA and California’s anti-homosexual marriage law) and New Zealand (see New Zealand seems to determined to recognize ‘same-sex’ marriage) political leaders took steps to ‘legalize’ same-sex unions.  In the USA, there are seventeen (see Uganda Senate votes against homosexual agenda, while New Mexico judge rules for it) or eighteen (if Utah is counted) states that how now legalized this.  New Zealand also legalized it (BSA proposal on allowing homosexuals; NZ approves homosexual marriage).  Despite protests against it in January 2013, in May 2013, France legalized it (see France becomes 14th nation to legalize homosexual ‘marriage’).  This is a disturbing trend that will end in destruction (cf. Romans 1:18-32).  As is the rising acceptance of celebrity ‘soft’ pornography (see Celebrity ‘soft’ pornography is increasingly bold, yet encouraged by much of the media and Entertainer of the Year, Person of the Year, and Pornography).
6. March 2013.  Continued pressing for a ‘peace deal’ that will divide Jerusalem happened (see Barack Obama continues push for “two-state” solution for the Israelis and Palestinians).  John Kerry and others proposed it also later in the year (see John Kerry says Israel and Palestinians are close to a peace deal; Israeli opposition leader wants to swap land for such a deal).  The Bible indicates that it is coming (Zechariah 14:2).
7. May/June 2013.  Edward Snowden began to disclose information about the amount of espionage done by the United States and the United Kingdom and the USA reacted (see USA’s Director of National Intelligence claims letting people know they are being spied on is ‘reprehensible’).  Furthermore, so did Europe (see Germany: USA is engaged in ‘cold war’ against us, Europe furious).  The Snowden matter is leading the USA to tell Europeans espionage secrets and will put the USA at major risk (Germany most upset by USA espionage).
8. May 2013.  There are additional concerns whether ‘peaceful’ Europe will eventually have significant unrest (see Eurozone unemployment rises: A prelude to more civil unrest? and EU: Pax Europa or Civil Unrest? ).  By the end of the year, even the President of Italy warned that violent unrest could occur in 2014 (see Italy’s President warns of social unrest in 2014; concerns also arise in France.).
9. June 2013.  Although the Vatican failed to get full control, the Vatican was able to arrange official access to the ‘Cenacle’ (see Israel and the Church of Rome ‘Cenacle’ control discussions).  Not being satisfied with partial control, the USA government apparently proposed a ‘peace deal’ which would give the Vatican more control (see WND: Kerry proposed deal to give Vatican control of at least one ‘holy site’ in Jerusalem).  This region has major prophetic ramifications and the media by and large has overlooked them and very few understand the potential prophetic ramifications of this.  For more details, please see Church of God on Jerusalem’s Western Hill.
10. July 2013.  One who made ‘king of the South’ type statements in Egypt was deposed by a military-backed coup (see Adly Mansour installed as Egypt’s interim president and Muslim Brotherhood protests removal of President Morsi; some killed by army).  Despite plans to stop the ambitions of those who want an Islamic caliphate, many still are working towards it (see Pro-Muslim Brotherhood demonstrators again killed in Egypt and An attempt to revive Muslim Brotherhood objectives in Egypt was announced).
11. August 2013.  Continuing a goal many have long had, China, Russia, and others have been working to dethrone the USA dollar as the world’s reserve currency (see China and Russia working to dethrone US dollar as world’s international currency and Bankers and politicians want to increase the US debt and further devalue the currency).
12. September 2013.  Europe hold a technology conference and again explains that it will use technology to boost its economy (see European technology plans).  It also takes concrete steps showing that it has technological prowess (see Germany’s FAIR continues: How might this physics project have prophetic ramifications? and Europe sends billion dollar telescope into space, another sign that Europe intends to lead the technology of the world).
13. October 2013.  John Hagee put out a book about ‘blood moons,’ their alleged connection to biblical holy days in 2014 and 2015, and suggested that the blood moon sequence suggests that the Day of the Lord, the Great Tribulation, and/or Jesus’ second coming would be in 2014 or 2015 (see Does the ‘blood moon’ predict the ‘Day of the Lord’ in 2014?).  This is in error, will turn people off on biblical prophecy, and create scoffer as did the late Harold Camping (Harold Camping’s Teachings About the End of the World Do Not Agree with the Bible), the jailed Ronald Weinland (see Concerns About Ronald Weinland’s Church of God-Preparing for the Kingdom of God), and the false predictor David Pack (see Why Not the Restored Church of God?).  The Apostle Peter warned of this (2 Peter 3:3-7), and John Hagee should not have promoted these ‘blood moon’ dates (see Blood Moons and Prophecy).
14. November/December 2013.  The ecumenical movement moved forward.  Pope Francis (see Pope Francis reaches out to Eastern Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew) and the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople exchanged hopes for greater unity (see Eastern Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew responds to Rome).  Pope Francis also took steps to eliminate some ‘conservative’ opponents to his agenda and Vatican II (see Catholic ‘conservatives’ have concerns about Pope Francis–Should they?).  He also sent Cardinal Kurt Koch, the president of the Pontifical Council for Christian Unity, to meet with Russian Patriarch Kirill (see Vatican’s Cardinal Koch to meet with Russian Patriarch Kirill).  Pope Francis’ comments in May of 2013 that atheists that will not believe can be saved (see Pope Francis’ ecumenism includes atheists!) should set off alarm bells to all who claim Christianity.
15. December 2013.  The World Trade Organization came to its first agreement ever (see WTO reaches new world order trade agreement).  A new world order is developing, and trade deals are helping to set the stage.  Europe had various meetings with the USA (see More on EU-USA TTIP talks: A Prelude to Revelation 13:16-18?) and others in an attempt to secure its future role in the world economy.

Here is a link to a related YouTube video: 15 News Events That Will Affect You.

A lot more happened in 2013 than is listed above (EU expansion and the beginnings of the Eurasian Union, to mention two more).  But the  above list includes many items that the mainstream media has tended to not cover, to gloss over, or not understand the ramifications.

2014 will likely be another year that many news items will align with properly understood biblical prophecy.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2014, 2015, or 2016? 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.
How To Determine If Someone is a True Prophet of God There are many false prophets, yet many overlook what the Bible teaches about how to recognize a true one. How can Christians determine who is a true prophet? This article contains a scripture-based checklist to assist with this determination.
How to determine if someone is a true prophet of God This is a sermon on YouTube addressing a subject that most in the Church of God do not seem to have looked into very much. It discusses scriptures and dispels some improper assertions that some associated with the COG have made about prophets in this time.
Elijah: Past and Prophesied Information about the original Elijah and some information about the Elijah-related prophecies.
Why Be Concerned About False and Heretical Leaders? There have been many false leaders–here is some of why you should be concerned about them.
The Final Phase of the Work What is the final phase of the work? Who will lead it? Do you have the courage to support it? Here is a related YouTube video titled The Final Phase of the Work. The written article has been translated into Spanish La Fase Final de la Obra.
Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God.
La Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios This is the Spanish site for the Continuing Church of God. URL is http://www.cdlidd.es
Paglalahad ng Mga Paniniwala ng Patuloy na Iglesya ng Diyos This is the Statement of Beliefs of the Continuing Church of God in Tagalog, the primary language of the Philippines.
CCOG.ASIA We in the Continuing Church of God also have the url www.ccog.asia which has a focus on Asia and has various articles in Mandarin Chinese as well as some in English, with some in items in other Asian languages in progress that are intended to be added. 我们在继续神的教会也提供此网址 www.ccog.asia, 关注于亚洲并且有各种各样的中英文文章，其中一些用菲律宾语翻译的文章也正在进行中，准备添加到这个网站中。
CCOG.IN This is a website targeted towards those of Indian heritage. It has a link to an edited Hindi translation of The Mystery of the Ages and is expected to have more non-English language materials in the future.
CCOG.EU This is a website targeted toward Europe. It has materials in more than one language (currently it has English, Dutch, and Serbian, with links also to Spanish) and it is intended to have additional language materials added.

Beijing After Rain Beijing on a Normal Sunny Day

COGwriter

A new report shows that pollution problems in China are not improving as the Chinese government hoped:

December 25, 2013

BEIJING — China is struggling to meet its 2011-2015 targets to reduce pollution, cut greenhouse gas growth and introduce cleaner sources of energy, a report submitted to the country’s parliament said on Wednesday.

The report, which covers the 2011-2012 period, said faster-than-expected economic growth was to blame for China’s failure to meet environmental targets ranging from energy use to nitrogen oxide emissions.

The state of China’s environment has come into particular focus in 2013, with most major cities engulfed by hazardous smog during the course of the year, including Beijing in January and Shanghai earlier this month.

Desperate to head off growing public anger about the state of the country’s air, water and soil, Beijing has promised to put an end to its “growth at all costs” economic model. It has already introduced new policies aimed at reining in polluting industries, cutting coal use and thinning traffic.  http://www.voanews.com/content/reu-china-struggling-to-meet-2011-2015-environment-goals/1817176.html

Here is another report:

China’s massive and long-term pollution…years of mounting deaths attributed to polluted air and water…

“The pollution problem in China is just terrible and has been for some time,” said Susan Tierney, an economist and energy strategist at the consulting firm Analysis Group.

“There are constant health alerts, and you can’t see buildings a quarter of a mile away,” she said. “They have a long way to go to reach economic growth and addressing the pollution problem.”…

Outdoor air pollution contributed to 1.2 million premature deaths in China in 2010, according to a study released this year on leading causes of global deaths.

Another study found that severe pollution has slashed an average of 5½ years from life expectancy in northern China as toxic air has led to higher rates of stroke, heart disease and cancer.

The bill in China from pollution added up to $100 billion in health care and lost wages in 2009, according to the World Bank. That’s about 3 percent of the country’s annual gross domestic product…

Particulates of mercury collected in countries like South Korea, Japan and even the U.S. have come from China.  http://www.nbcnews.com/business/chinas-pollution-bill-may-be-too-big-it-bear-now-2D11765770

For those who think that Chinese pollution is a problem limited to China, that is not truly so. Polluted Chinese rivers flow into the ocean, and thus affect everyone. Furthermore, as the above report shows, polluted Chinese air directly affects neighboring countries in Asia, such as South Korea and Japan (see also  China’s smog choking Japan). In addition, I recall seeing a report some time back that if Chinese air pollution continued growing at the rate it had been that the West Coast of the USA would have unhealthy particulate pollution levels just from what comes across the the ocean from China, even if there was no human caused pollution in California, for example. The threat from Chinese air pollution is that serious.

Perhaps it should be added that pollution seems to be a factor in causing autism (see Air Pollution More Than Doubles Autism Risk), and so the horrific levels of air pollution in  parts of China may have a lot of other negative consequences that will show up later. As I mentioned, China also has massive problems with water and other forms of pollution (see Record air pollution in Beijing: Jesus ultimately will fix these types of problems).

Because of pollution, economic policies, other problems, its serious potential for significant social unrest, and how it is discussed in biblical prophecy, these factors demonstrate that despite its economic gains, the 21st century will not belong to China. China will not become number 1, but later in this century, neither will the USA.

The following passage which involves the second coming of Jesus, and comes from the book also known as the Apocalypse, ends with an interesting statement:

8 The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come,
And the time of the dead, that they should be judged,
And that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints,
And those who fear Your name, small and great,
And should destroy those who destroy the earth. (Revelation 11:18)

Are not massive air, water, and other pollution problems part of how humankind is destroying the earth? In a sense, pollution will be a factor in the Apocalypse as the above passage shows.

Jesus will need to return to save humanity from destroying itself (Matthew 24:22).

But when?

We in the Continuing Church of God believe that God gave humans 6,000 years to live their own way (please see the article Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism and a 6000 Year Plan?). And that humans will mess things up so bad, “unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved” (Matthew 24:22). And that 6.000 years is close to being up–and probably will be in the next decade or so.

But because God has a plan for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 13:38) and a God of love (1 John 4:8,16; John 3:16), that He will intervene and send Jesus to establish a millennial kingdom on earth (Revelation 11:15; 20:4). During this 1000 year reign the world will become beautiful again (Isaiah 35:1-10; 58:12) (see also Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism?).

After this thousand year reign, all who ever lived will be resurrected (Revelation 20:5). The judgment will begin (Revelation 20:12) and God will plead His case (Isaiah 3:13; Jeremiah 25:31). When humans see how they started out with a very good and beautiful earth and messed up and nearly completely destroyed it in their 6,000 years, it appears that they will realize that humankind that distanced itself from the true God cannot properly govern itself. However, when they see how when starting with a messed up and nearly completely destroyed earth at the end of the 6,000 years (please see the article Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End?), that it was restored to being very good again, like Eden (Isaiah 51:3), because people obeyed the King of Kings during the millennium (please see Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism?), then apparently nearly all who ever lived will repent of their ways, accept Jesus as the Christ, and will live God’s way of life.

Since God is love (1 John 4:16), we in the Continuing Church of God believe that He has a plan that takes into account how human beings would have rebelled against Him (cf. 1 Peter 1:20-21). We also believe that God is smart enough to have developed a plan that does not result in the vast majority of humanity having to suffer endless torment. Thus we believe it is logical that His plan will result in nearly everyone who ever lived, no matter what their religion or background was, to be saved. And that there are hundreds of verses in the Bible that show this—and this is God’s will (2 Peter 3:9; John 3:16-17). This plan is also consistent with writings about Christianity throughout history—though most in modern times seem to wish to overlook that fact. And a little known fact is that there are hundreds of verses in the Bible that show this (documentation is in the article Universal Offer of Salvation: There Are Hundreds of Verses in the Bible Supporting the Doctrine of True Apocatastasis).

And this will be good news, not only for the Chinese, but for all of humanity.

Note: Those who read Mandarin Chinese may wish to check out the website www.ccog.asia

Some articles of interest may include the following:

China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Genesis and Chinese Characters Where did the Chinese people come from? This article provides information showing that the Chinese peoples must have known about various accounts in the Book of Genesis up until their dispersion after the Tower of Babel.
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: The Sabbath and Some of God’s Witness in China When did Christianity first come to China? And is there early evidence that they observed the seventh day sabbath? www.ccog.asia
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
Korea in Prophecy, Any Witness? Where did the Korean people come from? Does God have a plan for the Koreans? Is Korea mentioned in any prophecies? Will Koreans be among the first in the Kingdom of God? 한국의 언어로 : 한국 예언, 모든 증인에?
Japan, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Any Witness? Where did the Japanese people come from? Have they had any witness?
Japan, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: Prophecy Japan in prophecy. What is prophesied for Japan? Will God save the Japanese?
Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism? Was the millennium (sometimes called chiliasm) taught by early Christians? Who condemned it? Will Jesus literally reign for 1000 years on the earth? Is this time near?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2019 or 202x?
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?
Just What Do You Mean the Kingdom of God? A booklet that was written by Herbert Armstrong answers questions about the Kingdom.
Universal Offer of Salvation: There Are Hundreds of Verses in the Bible Supporting the Doctrine of True Apocatastasis Do you believe what the Bible actually teaches on this? Will all good things be restored? Will God call everyone? Will everyone have an opportunity for salvation? Does God’s plan of salvation take rebellion and spiritual blindness into account? Related sermon videos include Universal Offer of Salvation I: God is love  and Universal Offer of Salvation II: The Age to Come and the ‘Little Flock’ and Universal Offer of Salvation III: All Are to Know Jesus, But When? and Universal Offer of Salvation IV: Will the Guilty be Pardoned? and Universal Offer of Salvation V: All Israel Will be Saved?
Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God.
CCOG.ASIA We in the Continuing Church of God also have the url www.ccog.asia which has a focus on Asia and has various articles in Mandarin Chinese as well as some in English, with some in items in the Tagalog language in progress that are intended to be added.

Pope Francis (Source: presidencia.gov.ar)

COGwriter

Pope Francis spoke about peace and unity today:

December 25, 2013

VATICAN CITY –  In his speech on Christmas Day, Pope Francis said he hopes for a better world, including successful Middle East negotiations in the land of Jesus’ birth…

The pope prayed that Jesus, the `’prince of peace,” would `’bless the land where you chose to come into the world and grant a favorable outcome to the peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians. Heal the wounds of the beloved country of Iraq, once more struck by frequent acts of violence.”

Francis then explained his concept of peace.

`’True peace is not a balancing of opposing forces. It’s not a lovely facade which conceals conflicts and divisions,” the pope said in his first Christmas message since being elected pontiff in March. `’Peace calls for daily commitment,” Francis said, reading the pages of his speech which were ruffled by a chilly wind.  http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/12/25/worshippers-pilgrims-rejoice-in-jesus-bethlehem-birthplace/

December 25, 2013

The Pope has called on atheists to unite with believers of all religions and work for “a homemade peace” that can spread across the world.

Speaking to about 70,000 people from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis also made another appeal for the environment to be saved from “human greed and rapacity”.

Celebrating his first Christmas as leader of the 1.2 billion-member Catholic Church, he centred his first “Urbi et Orbi” (to the city and world) message on the theme of peace.

“Peace is a daily commitment. It is a homemade peace,” he said.

“I invite even non-believers to desire peace. (Join us) with your desire, a desire that widens the heart. Let us all unite, either with prayer or with desire, but everyone, for peace.”  http://uk.news.yahoo.com/pope-francis-warns-39-anti-christian-39-violence-044301293.html#e25PVUs

December 25, 2013

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis, celebrating his first Christmas as Roman Catholic leader, on Wednesday called for dialogue to end the conflict in South Sudan and all wars, saying everyone should strive to be personal peacemakers…

He also called for dialogue to end the conflicts in Syria, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Iraq, and prayed for a “favorable outcome” to the peace process between Israelis and Palestinians…

“God is peace: let us ask him to help us to be peacemakers each day, in our life, in our families, in our cities and nations, in the whole world,” he said.  http://www.voanews.com/content/reu-be-peacemakers-all-pope-says-in-first-christmas-message/1817148.html

While on the surface some of this sounds like what a ‘lamb’ may say, could it be part of the speech of a dragon (Revelation 13:11)?

From the ‘lamb’ perspective, Jesus clearly taught that Christians should be peacemakers:

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

Being a real peacemaker is actually good.

Many in the media seem enamored with Pope Francis and many seemed to love his speech today.  As reported here two weeks ago, Time magazine even went so far as to name Pope Francis its “Person of the Year” for 2013 (Time names Pope Francis ‘Person of the Year’).

But there are issues.  Notice the following from the Apostle Paul:

15…As it is written:

“How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace,  Who bring glad tidings of good things!”

16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?” (Romans 10:15-16)

16 Destruction and misery are in their ways; 17 And the way of peace they have not known. (Romans 3:16-17)

Pope Francis talks of peace, but does not understand nor teach the true gospel.  Yet, the media tend to think that he is, as they also do not know the true gospel nor the way of peace.  Contrary to scripture, Pope Francis’ ecumenical hopes include atheists (see Pope Francis’ ecumenism includes atheists!) and other non-believers, and not to convert them to be believers–this is a false gospel (Galatians 1:6-10).

Furthermore, it has been reported that despite his claims today against ‘division,’ that Pope Francis wants Jerusalem divided (http://www.revolutionwatcher.com/blog/2013/05/02/Pope-Francis-entering-the-Peace-process.aspx).  He also wants to acquire religious sites that are currently under Jewish control (WND: Kerry proposed deal to give Vatican control of at least one ‘holy site’ in Jerusalem)–the Bible indicates that this is not good (Daniel 11:31; Matthew 25:15)

Despite public statements for ‘peace’ and against division, what Pope Francis seems to advocate is for a divided Jerusalem.  Under current conditions, that would seem to lead to a Jerusalem that ends up being surrounded by armies.

Notice some of what the Bible teaches about that:

15 “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), 16 “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. (Matthew 24:15-16)

20 “But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near.  21 Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those who are in the midst of her depart, and let not those who are in the country enter her.  22 For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. (Luke 21:20-22)

2 For I will gather all the nations to battle against Jerusalem;
The city shall be taken,
The houses rifled,
And the women ravished.
Half of the city shall go into captivity,
But the remnant of the people shall not be cut off from the city. (Zechariah 14:2)

So, while in certain respects Pope Francis looks like a lamb, the dragon-like implications of what he is saying need to be understood by prophecy watchers.

Some items of related interest may include:

Jerusalem: Past, Present, and Future What does the Bible say about Jerusalem and its future? Is Jerusalem going to be divided and eliminated? Is Jesus returning to the area of Jerusalem? There is also a related YouTube video you can watch titled Jerusalem To be divided and eliminated.
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? Who is preaching the gospel? Here is a version in Korean 복음이란 무엇인가?
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? You can also see a YouTube video sermon The Gospel of the Kingdom.
Just What Do You Mean the Kingdom of God? A booklet that was written by Herbert Armstrong answers questions about the Kingdom. Pope Francis: Could this Marian Focused Pontiff be Fulfilling Prophecy? Pope Francis has taken many steps to turn people more towards his version of ‘Mary.’ Could this be consistent with biblical and Catholic prophecies? This article documents what has been happening. There is also a video version titled Pope Francis: Could this Marian Focused Pontiff be Fulfilling Prophecy?
Why Should American Catholics Fear Unity with the Orthodox? Are the current ecumenical meetings a good thing or will they result in disaster? Is doctrinal compromise good? Here is a link to a related video Should you be concerned abou the ecumenical movement?
Could Pope Francis be the Last Pope and Antichrist? According to some interpretations of the prophecies of the popes by the Catholic saint and Bishop Malachy, Pope Francis I is in the position of “Peter the Roman,” the pontiff who reigns during tribulations until around the time of the destruction of Rome. Do biblical prophecies warn of someone that sounds like Peter the Roman? Could Francis I be the heretical antipope of Catholic private prophecies and the final Antichrist of Bible prophecy? This is a YouTube video.
The Malachy Prophecies and “Peter the Roman” An Irish bishop allegedly predicted something about 112 popes in the 12th century. Pope Benedict XVI was number 111. Francis would seem to be number 112–if he is that one–and if so, he is to reign until Rome is destroyed. May he be an antipope/final Antichrist?
Which Is Faithful: The Roman Catholic Church or the Continuing Church of God? Do you know that both groups shared a lot of the earliest teachings? Do you know which church changed? Do you know which group is most faithful to the teachings of the apostolic church? Which group best represents true Christianity? This documented article answers those questions.
Some Doctrines of Antichrist Are there any doctrines taught outside the Churches of God which can be considered as doctrines of antichrist? This article suggests at least three. It also provides information on 666 and the identity of “the false prophet.” Plus it shows that several Catholic writers seem to warn about an ecumenical antipope that will support heresy. You can also watch a video titled What Does the Bible teach about the Antichrist?
Jesus: The Son of God and Saviour Who was Jesus? Why did He come to earth? What message did He bring? Is there evidence outside the Bible that He existed? Here is a YouTube sermon titled Jesus: Son of God and Saviour.
What Does the Catholic Church Teach About Christmas and the Holy Days? Do you know what the Catholic Church says were the original Christian holy days? Was Christmas among them? Is December 25th Jesus’ birthday or that of the sun god? Here is a link to a related sermon: What do Catholic and other scholars teach about Christmas?

Mithras, the sun god

COGwriter

Whose birthday is it todat?

Multiple millions are observing a birthday today. While many believe that they are celebrating the birth of Jesus, the reality is that those who have looked into the biblical account realize that December 25th was not the date that Jesus was born. Scholars also realize that early Christians not only did not celebrate December 25th as Jesus’ birthday, early Christians and professors of Christ basically did not celebrate birthdays at all.

The Catholic Encyclopedia teaches that:

Christmas was not among the earliest festivals of the Church (Martindale C. Transcribed by Susanti A. Suastika. Christmas. The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume III. Copyright © 1908 by Robert Appleton Company. Online Edition Copyright © 2003 by K. Knight. Nihil Obstat, November 1, 1908. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

An Armenian scholar called Ananias of Shirak, circa 600 A.D., wrote:

The Festival of the holy Birth of Christ, on the 12th day before the feast of the Baptism, was not appointed by the holy apostles, nor by their successors either, as is clear from the canons of the holy apostles…But in the days of the holy Constantine, in the holy Council of Nice, this festival was not received by the holy fathers (Ananias of Shirak, On Christmas, The Expositor, 5th series vol. 4 (1896) Translation. pp.323-337, as reported by ccel).

Now, probably one to two centuries after Jesus was born, some heretics/apostates did have a celebration, but the widest recognized dates tended to be in the months of May or January.

So, why December 25 now?

The historical record suggests that December 25th was chosen for basically two reasons: Saturnalia and Emperor Constantine’s ties to Mithraism.

The historical record show that some who professed Christ wanted to keep the idolatrous festival of Saturnalia. This festival which included the December 25th date. About three centuries after Jesus died, certain apostate authorities used the date as a way to pretend that the pagans were observing a supposedly “Christian” holiday. But, since the Saturnalia was longer than one day, that only partially explains December 25th. And it does not explain why observers who profess Christ ignore various warnings in the Bible–which should be shown now.

Even Catholic and Protestant translations of the Bible clearly warn against mixing pagan idolatrous practices with the worship of the God of the Bible. This is proved by the following in both the New and Old Testaments:

15. And what agreement with Christ and Belial? or what part hath the faithful with the
infidel?
16. And what agreement hath the temple of God with Idols? For you are the temple of the
living God. as God saith, Then I will dwell, and walk in them, and will be their God: and
they shall be my people.
17. For the which cause, Go out of the midst of them, and separate yourselves. saith our
Lord, and touch not the unclean: and I will receive you (2 Corinthians 6:15-17, The Original And True Rheims New Testament Of Anno Domini 1582. Prepared and Edited by Dr. William von Peters, Ph.D. Copyright © 1998, Dr. William G. von Peters. Ph.D. 2004, copyright assigned to VSC Corp.).

15 And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? 16 And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said:

“I will dwell in them
And walk among them.
I will be their God,
And they shall be My people.”

17 Therefore

“Come out from among them
And be separate, says the Lord.
Do not touch what is unclean,
And I will receive you.” (2 Corinthians 6:15-17, NKJV)

2 ‘Do not learn the ways of the nations or take alarm at the heavenly signs, alarmed though the nations may be at them. 3 Yes, the customs of the peoples are quite futile: wood, nothing more, cut out of a forest, worked with a blade by a carver’s hand, 4 then embellished with silver and gold, then fastened with hammer and nails to keep it from moving. 5 Like scarecrows in a melon patch, they cannot talk, they have to be carried, since they cannot walk. Have no fear of them: they can do no harm — nor any good either!’… 11 ‘Tell them this, “The gods who did not make the heavens and the earth will vanish from the earth and from under these heavens.” ‘ (Jeremiah 10:2-5,11, New Jerusalem Bible)

2 Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. 3 For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. 4 They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not. 5 They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good…11 Thus shall ye say unto them, The gods that have not made the heavens and the earth, even they shall perish from the earth, and from under these heavens. (Jeremiah 10:2-5,11 KJV)

So unclean practices associated with idols are prohibited by God. Does not that include celebrating as the idolaters celebrate? Also, the above says not to be affected for worship from various signs in the heavens–this would seem to include the oft claim that there was possibly some type of a heavenly sign (like the “Star of Bethlehem”) in December of some year (I have seen such claims, and although there were certainly heavenly signs associated with Jesus’ actual birth, the “proofs” that I have tended to see by some who have claimed a December 25th date tend to miss the ACTUAL YEAR that Jesus was born).

Why, despite biblical warnings and the fact that Jesus was not born on December 25th and his original followers did not celebrate His birthday did December 25th get adopted?

Basically because of a combination of paganism and political compromise.

A specific birthday was celebrated on December 25th. This was the claimed birthday of the sun god Mithras (sometimes spelled Mithra; see also Do You Practice Mithraism?).

The Catholic Encyclopedia teaches:

Mithraism A pagan religion consisting mainly of the cult of the ancient Indo-Iranian Sun-god Mithra. It entered Europe from Asia Minor after Alexander’s conquest, spread rapidly over the whole Roman Empire at the beginning of our era, reached its zenith during the third century, and vanished under the repressive regulations of Theodosius at the end of the fourth century…Helios Mithras is one god…Sunday was kept holy in honour of Mithra, and the sixteenth of each month was sacred to him as mediator. The 25 December was observed as his birthday, the natalis invicti, the rebirth of the winter-sun, unconquered by the rigours of the season (Arendzen. J.P. Transcribed by John Looby. Mithraism. The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume X. Published 1911. New York: Robert Appleton Company. Nihil Obstat, October 1, 1911. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

Natalis Invicti. The well-known solar feast, however, of Natalis Invicti, celebrated on 25 December, has a strong claim on the responsibility for our December date. For the history of the solar cult, its position in the Roman Empire, and syncretism with Mithraism, see Cumont’s epoch-making “Textes et Monuments” etc., I, ii, 4, 6, p. 355…The earliest rapprochement of the births of Christ and the sun is in Cypr., “De pasch. Comp.”, xix, “O quam præclare providentia ut illo die quo natus est Sol . . . nasceretur Christus.” – “O, how wonderfully acted Providence that on that day on which that Sun was born . . . Christ should be born.”… (Martindale C. Christmas, 1908).

The World Book Encyclopedia notes,

In 354 A.D., Bishop Liberius of Rome ordered the people to celebrate on December 25. He probably chose this date because the people of Rome already observed it as the Feast of Saturn, celebrating the birthday of the sun (Sechrist E.H. Christmas. World Book Encyclopedia, Volume 3. Field Enterprises Educational Corporation, Chicago, 1966, pp. 408-417).

It needs to be understood that some scholarly sources believe that the celebration in Rome of Christmas may have began 2-3 decades earlier (by Constantine), but none I am aware of suggest it was prior Constantine in the fourth century.

Although he is called “the Great” by the Catholics of Rome and a “saint” by the Eastern Orthodox, Emperor Constantine was a follower of the sun god Mithras. And while some claim that he “converted” to “Christianity” after seeing a cross in the sky, having a vision of Jesus, and winning the battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 A.D. (Milvian Bridge Day, Constantine, and St. Jude ), notice a coin he had produced in 317 A.D.:

So, the image of Emperor Constantine is on one side of the coin and the image of the sun god Mithras is on the other side of the coin. Emperor Constantine greatly influenced the religion of the Roman and Eastern Orthodox Catholics and to this day, many aspects of Mithraism are incorporated into their respective faiths, as well as those of most Protestants.

Why Mithras?

Basically, the sun-worshiping Roman Emperor Constantine was a follower of Mithras. But that religion has problems:

Mithraism was destined by its very nature to be, not a world- religion like Christianity, but the exclusive cult of a restricted number of worshippers. A religion that rigidly excluded all women from participation in its worship, that restricted the initiates to such men alone as had the courage and the power of physical endurance to undergo its severe tests, that celebrated its ritual in underground temples absolutely hidden from public gaze, such a religion was never meant, and was never fit, to become the religion of a nation. (Aiken C.F., Mithraism and Christianity, p. 387)

Women, being 1/2 the population and necessary for the continuance of humanity, could not be excluded from a faith for an empire to do well, so something had to be done.

Yet, Mithraism itself also had a certain appeal to the Emperor as the Catholic scholar C. Aiken noted:

Mithraism was first and foremost a military cult, brought to these regions by foreign Mithra-worshippers, who along with other orientals were enlisted in the Roman army and stationed in the numerous camps that dotted the extensive frontier on the North. Some of the Roman soldiers, even centurions and higher officers, became initiated in the mysteries of the victorious light-god, and when afterwards they were sent to different parts of the empire (Aiken C.F., Mithraism, p. 255)

Now originally, virtually none who professed Christ would participate in military service. But by blending aspects of Mithraism with the profession of Christianity, Emperor Constantine was able to produce a faith that he felt would provide his empire the type of military might that he wanted (Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare?).

Because of that, many associated with Mithraism professed his “Constantinian Christianity,” and since they had such strong ties to Mithras, it was determined that to declare that Jesus was to be worshiped then would keep them as part of that compromised faith (Do You Practice Mithraism?).

Are Pagan Practices Knowingly Still Going on Today?

Certainly, December 25th contains a lot of pagan practices. Here are some mentioned in The Catholic Encyclopedia and the Vatican:

Cards and presents. Pagan customs centering round the January calends gravitated to Christmas…

The yule log. The calend fires were a scandal even to Rome, and St. Boniface obtained from Pope Zachary their abolition (Martindale C. Christmas, 1908).

Vatican paper disfavours Santa Claus

Rome, Dec. 22: Sant Claus, and Christmas trees, have been condemned in an editorial in the Vatican weekly newspaper, “L’Osservatore della Domenica.” The editorial describes Santa Claus as a “monstrous substitute” for the Christ Child, and says that the idea of Santa “is offensive to the faith” and “will not and must not be accepted or tolerated by Christians.” The use of Christmas trees — which have only recently become a part of the Italian Christmas — is condemned as “an attempt to substitute the Crib ….. with a certain feeling of naturalism and paganism.” (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/dc50/vatican-paper-disfavours-santa-claus-684)

In addition to adopting pagan practices associated with the Saturnalia such as gift giving, parties, and wreaths, Christmas’ date comes from the pagan beliefs about the sun god Mithras. Furthermore, even today, many will be visiting Bethlehem in order to see the so-called Church of the Nativity. This is built above a below ground cave.

Jesus was not born in that below ground cave location as that would not be a place that animals could get into and out of on a regular basis. So, who supposed was born in a below ground cave/grotto? Yes, the sun god Mithras. And it may be that because of this, Emperor Constantine’s mother Helena may have been interested in believing that Jesus too was born in a similar location (despite the fact that this goes against the biblical account) and she tended to accept the outside of Bethlehem cave location as the place of Jesus’ birth (note: there were other apostates prior to Helena and some of them helped, at least indirectly, “set this up,” see also Was Jesus Born in the Grotto of the Nativity?).

Even today the cave location is revered not only in Bethlehem, but there is normally a public display of a cave in Vatican City.

Representation of Cave Grotto, Vatican City, January 2010
(Photo by Joyce Thiel)

So, sadly, while many hope that they are observing a Christian celebration today, in reality they are observing a date that was chosen because of pagan influence and political compromise.

And while most who do so feel justified in their own minds, notice what Jesus taught:

24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. (John 4:24)

The the truth is that Jesus was not born on December 25th. The date and many of its observances are clearly of pagan origin.

But, what about tradition? Well, Christmas simply was not an apostolic tradition, but a compromise. Jesus addressed this when He was in the flesh:

“3 He answered and said to them, “Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition? 4 For God commanded, saying, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.’ 5 But you say, ‘Whoever says to his father or mother, “Whatever profit you might have received from me is a gift to God” — 6 then he need not honor his father or mother.’ Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition. 7 Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying:

8 “These people draw near to Me with their mouth,
And honor Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
9 And in vain they worship Me,
Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'” (Matthew 15:3-9)

But, again, many ignore that.

Do you really believe the Bible or are you more comfortable with paganism and traditions of men?

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

What Does the Catholic Church Teach About Christmas and the Holy Days? Do you know what the Catholic Church says were the original Christian holy days? Was Christmas among them? Is December 25th Jesus’ birthday or that of the sun god?
How did December 25th become Christmas? Was Jesus born then? If not, why December 25? Here is the article translated into Mandarin Chinese 12月25日最后是怎么被许多基督的信仰者采纳的.
Did Early Christians Celebrate Birthdays? Did biblical era Jews celebrate birthdays? Who originally celebrated birthdays? When did many that profess Christ begin birthday celebrations?
Do You Practice Mithraism? Many practices and doctrines that mainstream so-called Christian groups have are the same or similar to those of the sun-god Mithras. December 25th was celebrated as his birthday. Do you follow Mithraism combined with the Bible or original Christianity?
Was Jesus Born in the Grotto of the Nativity? Was Jesus born in a below ground cave? Was Jesus born below the “Church of the Nativity”? Were the wise men there?
Is Keeping Christmas a Sin? Is keeping Christmas acceptable for true Christians? What are some scriptures to consider?
Tradition and Scripture: From the Bible and Church Writings Are traditions on equal par with scripture? Many believe that is what Peter, John, and Paul taught. But did they?
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare? Here are current and historical perspectives on a matter which show the beliefs of the true church on military participation. Is war proper for Christians?
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.
The History of Early Christianity Are you aware that what most people believe is not what truly happened to the true Christian church? Do you know where the early church was based? Do you know what were the doctrines of the early church? Is your faith really based upon the truth or compromise?

Jerusalem

COGwriter

Voice of America reported the following today:

Middle East Turmoil Sparks Unease in Israel

Scott Bobb

December 24, 2013

JERUSALEM — The year 2013 saw more upheaval in the Middle East as the effects continued from popular uprisings in a half-dozen countries. For Israel this brought a mixed reaction of reassurance and uncertainty.

The effort to end Iran’s suspected nuclear weapons program caused Israeli leaders their greatest worry. Few believe Iran is serious about abandoning its program, whose existence it denies.  Ephraim Kam is at the Institute for National Security Studies in Tel Aviv.

“They [the Iranians] have not invested so many efforts and money just to stop it now even if they are in economic trouble. So what they are trying to do is to maneuver, to give something, to get much more than they give and when the time is appropriate to continue with their nuclear program,” said Kam.

Israeli leaders are also watching the war in Syria. They like that the fighting is distracting the attention and absorbing the resources of Syria’s government and its allies, Iran and Hezbollah. But the situation must be watched, said Ely Karmon of The International Institute for Counter-Terrorism.  “Who will control the vast territory which now is under the control of dozens, dozens of small organizations,” he questioned. “Jihadists, Salafists, some of them local warlords?”

The Syrian conflict has aggravated tensions between the Sunni and Shi’ite branches of Islam across the region. Ephraim Kam said this, too, is benefiting Israel, though the arrival of so many fighters is worrisome.

“Our concern is that at a certain point, when the struggle will decline, we are going to find these guys trying to challenge us. This is a problem. Not now. Not immediately. What we have immediately, it’s relatively small incidents but sometime in future it can change,” Kam said.

Egypt’s military coup was a relief to Israeli officials. The new government in Cairo has cracked down on terrorist activity in the Sinai near Israel and wants to weaken the anti-Israel Hamas movement that rules Gaza.

The revival of peace talks with the Palestinians after a three-year freeze brought some hope but most observers are not optimistic.

Ely Karmon said each side is constrained by its hardliners. “So I think that we need an interim agreement which will give symbolic territorial gains to the Palestinians over the very short term, much more freedom of movement and economic incentives and a very general framework which will speak about a final agreement,” he said.

The Palestinians are pessimistic. They don’t believe Israel is ready to make concessions, like freezing West Bank settlement, said Hadi Abdul Mahdi of East Jerusalem’s PASSIA research institute. “We are contained and will continue to be contained in an autonomy-minus situation, governed militarily by Israelis, controlled by the powers of the West and keeping mediocre people in offices like municipality arrangements,” he added.

Israeli leaders said they are ready to make concessions but need security guarantees. But given the rising number of incidents in the past year, this appears less and less likely.  http://www.voanews.com/content/middle-east-turmoil-sparks-unease-in-israel/1816724.html

It is more than unease in Israel.  Many in Israel are growing increasingly concerned about how the USA views Israel and are looking to others to try to assist them.  Something else to add to the above news story is the fact that the Saudis have apparently made some arrangements for acquiring nuclear weapons–the Middle East is becoming more dangerous.

Israeli leaders have met with various ones in the European Union and Russia in attempts to gain allies.  While diplomatic efforts to multiple countries is normal, it appears that Israel’s concerns go beyond that.  Israeli leaders have learned that they cannot trust and rely on the USA as much as they long have.

It should be noted that Israelis are right to be concerned about what will arise after the Shi’ites and Sunnis reduce tensions.  The Bible is clear that a power will arise in the Arabic and Turkish nations.

The Hebrew scriptures, commonly referred to as the Old Testament, tell of such a confederation.  Notice two sections, one from Psalms and the other from Daniel:

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)

31 And forces shall be mustered by him, and they shall defile the sanctuary fortress; then they shall take away the daily sacrifices, and place there the abomination of desolation…

36 “Then the king shall do according to his own will: he shall exalt and magnify himself above every god, shall speak blasphemies against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the wrath has been accomplished; for what has been determined shall be done. 37 He shall regard neither the God of his fathers nor the desire of women, nor regard any god; for he shall exalt himself above them all. 38 But in their place he shall honor a god of fortresses; and a god which his fathers did not know he shall honor with gold and silver, with precious stones and pleasant things. 39 Thus he shall act against the strongest fortresses with a foreign god, which he shall acknowledge, and advance its glory; and he shall cause them to rule over many, and divide the land for gain.

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 11:31-36-43)

These passages show that an Arabic- Turkish confederation will form, and for a time have European support (Psalm 83:4-8).  They also show that Israel will be attacked, and that the European power will turn against the Arab-Turkish power (Daniel 11:31-43), but that the Turks and some of the Arabs will escape the European leaders’ punishment (Daniel 11:41).  Israel, however, is not listed as escaping. (The identities of the various ones involved as discussed in articles such as Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel, Is the Future King of the South Rising Up?, and Who is the King of the North?)

The Hebrew scriptures also warn about destruction and slavery coming about with a divided Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:2).

The USA has, on more than one occasion in 2013, put forth the idea that Jerusalem needed to be divided.  This also causes unease in Israel.  When I was in Israel several weeks ago, a particular Israeli man kept trying to point out geographic and other reasons why Jerusalem could not be divided as the USA and others have proposed.  I told him on more than one occasion that the current USA government and others do not really care about the practicalities of the matter, but that they have determined that it is the political position that they want to support.

Some in Israel understand that, others seem to be in denial.

The reality is that according to Bible prophecy, the days of the current nation of Israel are numbered.  Those in Israel are justified in having unease about what has been happening and what will eventually happen there.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Jerusalem: Past, Present, and Future What does the Bible say about Jerusalem and its future? Is Jerusalem going to be divided and eliminated? Is Jesus returning to the area of Jerusalem? There is also a related YouTube video you can watch titled Jerusalem To be divided and eliminated.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (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-Saxon 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?
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.
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? In the Spanish language check out ¿Quién es el Rey del Norte? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
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.

Cattle herders in South Sudan (JennaCB123)

COGwriter

Violence in South Sudan has escalated to the point that the UN and USA are trying to get involved:

December 24, 2013

The U.S. military says a force of 150 Marines is ready to enter troubled South Sudan to help evacuate Americans and protect U.S. facilities.

The military’s Africa Command tells VOA the special task force has been positioned in Djibouti, the site of the only U.S. military base in Africa, so it can quickly respond to the crisis in South Sudan as needed.

The U.S. has evacuated several planeloads of Americans from South Sudan since fighting broke out December 15 between supporters of the president and his former vice president.

The U.N. says the fighting has displaced about 100,000 people, more than 40,000 of whom have taken refuge on U.N. bases.

The U.N. Security Council is due to vote Tuesday on a resolution to send 5,500 additional peacekeepers to South Sudan.

The U.S. says all members of the Council support the proposal. The troops would be transferred from other U.N. missions in Africa. http://www.voanews.com/content/us-positions-troops-to-enter-south-sudan/1816519.html.

December 24, 2013

(CNN) — U.S. Marines stood by to help evacuate Americans in South Sudan as the top U.N. official there warned Tuesday of a “breakdown in respect for the most basic rights of people” amid the country’s widening military and humanitarian crisis.

U.N. Assistant Secretary-General Toby Lanzer tweeted that more accounts were reaching him of human rights abuses amid widening violence that has stoked fears of an all-out civil war in the world’s newest country. http://www.cnn.com/2013/12/24/world/africa/south-sudan-violence/

I have prayed for those in South Sudan off and on for some time.  There was a lot of violence prior to it becoming formally independent o July 9, 2012, and violence has continued in that poor land.

As far as violence goes, the Bible shows that God is against violence and that destruction will come because of it:

23 ‘Make a chain,
For the land is filled with crimes of blood,
And the city is full of violence.
24 Therefore I will bring the worst of the Gentiles,
And they will possess their houses;
I will cause the pomp of the strong to cease,
And their holy places shall be defiled. (Ezekiel 7:23-24)

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…30…violent, proud, boasters,…31…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)

Human efforts at peace do not bring lasting peace, and violence tends to beget more violence (cf. Matthew 26:52).

South Sudan and the rest of the world need the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the kingdom of God.  Those in South Sudan are in my prayers–and I do understand that God has a plan for them as well.

All need to heed the words of Jesus and pray:

9…Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
10 Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.  (Matthew 6:9-10)

God has a fantastic plan for all humanity and it involves His kingdom.

Some items of possibly related interest may include the following:

Africa: Its Biblical Past and Prophesied Future What does the Bible teach about Africa and its future? Did the early Church reach Africa? Will God call all the Africans?
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?
What is Your Destiny? Deification? Did the Early Church Teach That Christians Would Become God? What is your ultimate destiny? What does the Bible teach? Is deification only a weird or cultic idea? Are you to rule the universe? Here is a link to the video sermon What is Your Destiny?
Universal Offer of Salvation: There Are Hundreds of Verses in the Bible Supporting the Doctrine of True Apocatastasis Do you believe what the Bible actually teaches on this? Will all good things be restored? Will God call everyone? Will everyone have an opportunity for salvation? Does God’s plan of salvation take rebellion and spiritual blindness into account? Related sermon videos include Universal Offer of Salvation I: God is love  and Universal Offer of Salvation II: The Age to Come and the ‘Little Flock’ and Universal Offer of Salvation III: All Are to Know Jesus, But When? and Universal Offer of Salvation IV: Will the Guilty be Pardoned? and Universal Offer of Salvation V: All Israel Will be Saved?
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare? Here are current and historical perspectives on a matter which show the beliefs of the true church on military participation. Is war proper for Christians?
The 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?
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? You can also see a YouTube video sermon The Gospel of the Kingdom.
Just What Do You Mean the Kingdom of God? A booklet that was written by Herbert Armstrong answers questions about the Kingdom.
Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism? Was the millennium (sometimes called chiliasm) taught by early Christians? Who condemned it? Will Jesus literally reign for 1000 years on the earth? Is this time near?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2021 or 20xx? There is also a video titled The 6000 Year Plan: Is the end of humanity’s reign almost up?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2014, 2015, or 2016? 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.

Edward Snowden (Laura Poitras /Praxis Films)

COGwriter

Edward Snowden has now claimed he accomplished his goals related to leaking information on the USA and UK espionage and data collection programs:

December 24, 2013

Former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden says his mission is “already accomplished,” after revealing details of the NSA’s surveillance programs.

Snowden, who is living under temporary asylum in Moscow, told The Washington Post said he is satisfied with what he has accomplished in leaking the information because members of the public now have access to it and can use it as they choose.

Snowden’s disclosures, which first appeared in the Post and Guardian newspapers after he fled to Hong Kong, have revealed government secrets, such as the NSA’s secret collection of telephone records from millions of Americans. A U.S. judge ruled December 16 that the program is likely unconstitutional.

In his ruling, Judge Richard Leon said he “cannot imagine a more indiscriminate and arbitrary invasion” of peoples’ privacy than the government’s collection of such information without prior judicial approval. http://www.voanews.com/content/snowden-mission-accomplished/1816471.html

Snowden agreed to reflect at length on the roots and repercussions of his choice…

“For me, in terms of personal satisfaction, the mission’s already accomplished,” he said. “I already won. As soon as the journalists were able to work, everything that I had been trying to do was validated. Because, remember, I didn’t want to change society. I wanted to give society a chance to determine if it should change itself.”

“All I wanted was for the public to be able to have a say in how they are governed,” he said. “That is a milestone we left a long time ago. Right now, all we are looking at are stretch goals.”…

By his own terms, Snowden succeeded beyond plausible ambition. The NSA, accustomed to watching without being watched, faces scrutiny it has not endured since the 1970s, or perhaps ever.

The cascading effects have made themselves felt in Congress, the courts, popular culture, Silicon Valley and world capitals. The basic structure of the Internet itself is now in question, as Brazil and members of the European Union consider measures to keep their data away from U.S. territory and U.S. technology giants including Google, Microsoft and Yahoo take extraordinary steps to block the collection of data by their government.  http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/edward-snowden-after-months-of-nsa-revelations-says-his-missions-accomplished/2013/12/23/49fc36de-6c1c-11e3-a523-fe73f0ff6b8d_story.html

Sinter Klaas “Saint Nicholas”

COGwriter

Last December 24th, ABC had an interesting headline about the Santa Claus lie:

The Heartbreaking Truth About Santa Still Stings Adults

The truth is that this time of year, many who profess Christ feel that it is acceptable to lie to their children about a figure commonly called Santa Claus, who supposedly goes down chimneys and gives gifts to children for Christmas.

One would think that those who claim ties to Jesus would realize that His words prohibit lying and that lies come from Satan the devil:

42 Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me. 43 Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word. 44 You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it. 45 But because I tell the truth, you do not believe Me. 46 Which of you convicts Me of sin? And if I tell the truth, why do you not believe Me? 47 He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God.” (John 8:42-47)

But, no, many decide that their traditions are more important than the commandments of God. Notice that Jesus dealt with this as well:

“3 He answered and said to them, “Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition? 4 For God commanded, saying, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.’ 5 But you say, ‘Whoever says to his father or mother, “Whatever profit you might have received from me is a gift to God” — 6 then he need not honor his father or mother.’ Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition. 7 Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying:

8 “These people draw near to Me with their mouth,
And honor Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
9 And in vain they worship Me,
Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'” (Matthew 15:3-9)

But, again, many ignore that.

Lest there be any question about commandments, notice Jesus’ own words about at least one that those who tell children that there is a Santa Claus who comes down chimneys and gives gifts violates:

“You shall not bear false witness” (Matthew 19:18). “Do not bear false witness” (Mark 10:19). “You know the commandments:…Do not bear false witness” (Luke 18:20).

Now, while there actually was a Catholic bishop named Nicholas (see ‘The Real St. Nicholas – Not Fat and Not Very Jolly Either’), it perhaps should be mentioned that he was violent and held certain views contrary to those of the Bible. While the Roman and Eastern Orthodox consider him a “saint,” those who truly believe the Bible would realize that he was not.

Of course, those interested in the truth have or will study into the entire Christmas matter and realize that no earlier professors of Christ celebrated Christmas or other birthdays. Instead, they observed the biblical holy days, which days like Christmas tend to obscure.

The Bible is about truth. As Jesus said, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth” (John 17:17). So, real Christians are set apart by truth, the truth that is in the word of God.

Yet, since stories about Santa Claus and going down chimneys to give gifts are lies, what does that make those to promote that myth?

Do you really believe the Bible or are you more comfortable with traditions of men?

Now, some believe that all the lies and pagan symbols associated with Christmas are simply harmless fun.  They believe that Christmas brings families together, and gets people to learn about Jesus.  While the name of Jesus gets mentioned more than at other times of the year by various ones, the reality is that those who observe Christmas do not properly discern the message of Jesus Christ, nor do most of the customs associated with Christmas help people understand how Jesus would have them live.

Furthermore, those who tend to keep Christmas, also tend to not keep the Holy Days that Jesus and His apostles kept.  Partially because they do not, those who keep Christmas normally fail to understand God’s plan of salvation, as the lies and trappings associated with Christmas obscure the message.  God has a plan revealed through His Holy Days that people would be able to grasp if they would obey Him instead of relying on false traditions of men.

The Santa Claus lie is only a small part of the damage that Christmas does.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

What Does the Catholic Church Teach About Christmas and the Holy Days? Do you know what the Catholic Church says were the original Christian holy days? Was Christmas among them? Is December 25th Jesus’ birthday or that of the sun god?
Did Early Christians Celebrate Birthdays? Did biblical era Jews celebrate birthdays? Who originally celebrated birthdays? When did many that profess Christ begin birthday celebrations?
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. (Here is a related link in Spanish/español: Calendario Anual de Adoración –Una crítica basada en la Biblia y en la Historia: ¿Hay un Calendario Anual de Adoración en la Biblia?
Jesus: The Son of God and Saviour Who was Jesus? Why did He come to earth? What message did He bring? Is there evidence outside the Bible that He existed? Here is a YouTube sermon titled Jesus: Son of God and Saviour.
Hope of Salvation: How the Continuing Church of God differ from most Protestants How the real Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background.
Tradition and Scripture: From the Bible and Church Writings Are traditions on equal par with scripture? Many believe that is what Peter, John, and Paul taught. But did they?
Do You Practice Mithraism? Many practices and doctrines that mainstream so-called Christian groups have are the same or similar to those of the sun-god Mithras. December 25th was celebrated as his birthday. Do you follow Mithraism combined with the Bible or original Christianity?
Was Jesus Born in the Grotto of the Nativity? Was Jesus born in a below ground cave? Was Jesus born below the “Church of the Nativity”? Were the wise men there?
Is Keeping Christmas a Sin? Is keeping Christmas acceptable for true Christians? What are some scriptures to consider?
What Did Jesus Teach About the Ten Commandments? This article quotes what Jesus actually said about them (His words are in red).
Were the Ten Commandments Nailed to the Cross? Some have said so. This article provides some biblical quotes to answer this important question.
What Did Paul Actually Teach About the Ten Commandments? Many say Paul taught against the ten commandments. Is this true? This article quotes Paul with his words in green.
Are the Ten Commandment Still in Effect? This article quotes the ten commandments and combines some of the previous articles into one article about the ten commandments. The commandments are shown at Mount Sinai, before Mount Sinai, in the teachings of Jesus, after the crucifixion, and in the teachings of Paul. It addresses the most common “traditions of men” regarding them as well.
Were the Pharisees Condemned for Keeping the Law or Reasoning Around it? Many believe that the Pharisees were condemned for keeping the law, but what does your Bible say? If they were not condemned for that, what were they condemned for?
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?
Was the Commandment to Love the Only Command? Some have stated that John’s writings teach this, but is that what the Bible really says?
The Ten Commandments and the Early Church Did Jesus and the Early Church keep the ten commandments? What order were they in? Here are quotes from the Bible and early writings.
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.
The History of Early Christianity Are you aware that what most people believe is not what truly happened to the true Christian church? Do you know where the early church was based? Do you know what were the doctrines of the early church? Is your faith really based upon the truth or compromise?

COGwriter

The ‘entertainer of the year’ was announced, and she only was one vote ahead of a celebrity who catapulted to fame for her lewd and pornographic public behavior:

December 2013

LOS ANGELES –  The battle for AP entertainer of the year came down to the Girl on Fire and the Queen of Twerk.

Jennifer Lawrence edged out Miley Cyrus by one vote in The Associated Press’ annual survey of its newspaper and broadcast members and subscribers for Entertainer of the Year.  http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2013/12/23/jennifer-lawrence-tops-miley-cyrus-netflix-for-ap-entertainer-year-title/

Admit it: Miley Cyrus won 2013

December 23, 2013

Miley Cyrus

Cyrus may not have been named Time’s Person of the Year, but for a minute there it seemed possible.

At one point Cyrus was leading in an online poll for the coveted title, but ultimately the magazine’s editors chose Pope Francis (thank God, right?). Yet even without the honor, it’s hard to dispute the obvious: Cyrus kind of owned 2013.

Her scantily clad performance with singer Robin Thicke at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards in August had everyone talking, and spawned everything from infographics to Halloween costumes.

“You can call Miley Cyrus a lot of things after her bizarre 2013, but poor, uneventful and un-newsworthy aren’t some of them,” wrote Scott Davis for Forbes. “In one of the most calculated exercises in Marketing 101, Cyrus schooled major brands by understanding that it is not just about becoming the dialog, but orchestrating it and the ecosystem that surrounds it.”  http://www.cnn.com/2013/12/20/showbiz/celebrity-news-gossip/winners-and-losers-2013/

While Pope Francis was named person of the year for 2013 by Time (see Time names Pope Francis ‘Person of the Year’), and Jennifer Lawrence is famous for her acting, Miley Cyrus is famous for her version of pornography.  Sadly, she correctly calculated that moral standards had dropped so much that if she feigned sex while scantily clothed that the media would cover her, promote her, and make her more famous.

Miley Cyrus and the people who promote her behavior should be ashamed.  The Bible tells of a time like this:

15 Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination?
No! They were not at all ashamed;
Nor did they know how to blush.
Therefore they shall fall among those who fall;
At the time I punish them,
They shall be cast down,” says the Lord. (Jeremiah 6:15)

The trend for increased public acceptance of pornography in Western societies is increasing.  Not only will those who actually participate and promote pornography pay a price, society will as well:

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

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

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

Pornography is not harmless.  Miley Cyrus publicly dishonored her body with her most famous performance.

(This is part of what is termed ‘soft pornography’ as there is no actual sex occurring–it is just intentionally lust provoking.)

More and more female celebrities have decided that wearing less and/or publicly looking they are participating in or enjoying simulated sex is a way to gain publicity (some male celebrities have also followed this trend)–and Miley Cyrus is one of them.  She should not be commended, her behavior should be condemned.

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-Saxon lands. What are some of the consequences?
Can those in the USA/UK see the Handwriting on the Wall? Is everything fine in the USA/UK or is it like the days of Noah? Can we learn from the handwriting that appeared on a wall thousands of years ago?
Love, Marriage, and Sex It is important to get them in the right order.
Women and the New Testament Church What roles did women play in the ministry of Jesus and the apostles? Did Jesus and the Apostle Paul violate Jewish traditions regarding their dealings with women? Do women have any biblical limitations on their role in the Church? Were there female prophets? Do women have any special responsibilities in terms of how they dress? What does the New Testament really teach about women? Here is a related sermon titled: New Testament Women.
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-Saxon 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?

Official Photograph

COGwriter

Today is a deadline related to the Affordable Health Care Act, commonly called Obamacare:

December 23, 2013

Americans have until the end of the day today to sign up for health insurance starting Jan. 1 under President Barack Obama’s signature law, joining the first wave of a coverage expansion that supporters hope will eventually cut the number of uninsured by 30 million.

While consumers can sign up for 2014 health plans until March 31, the January launch date will give a first taste of new private health plans available under the law.

The initial sign-up tallies are expected to fall far short of expectations: Only 365,000 people nationwide navigated through technologically troubled online marketplaces to enroll in private plans in October and November. On Friday, President Obama told reporters a million more had enrolled in the first weeks of December, but the totals still fall short of a 3.5 million-enrollee target for the private plans by the year’s end.  http://stream.wsj.com/story/campaign-2012-continuous-coverage/SS-2-9156/SS-2-412254/

December 23, 2013

Here we go again.

2014 will be the third election in a row in which Obamacare is the central issue. The Affordable Care Act, which President Barack Obama signed into law in March 2010, contributed to a fierce voter backlash against Democrats in November 2010. After the Supreme Court upheld the law in June 2012, the issue seemed to be settled by Obama’s re-election that November.

But no.

The botched Obamacare rollout this year has again thrust the issue to the top of the political agenda…

The Obama administration promised that the vast majority of workers with employer-based insurance would not be affected. That is almost certainly true. But the minority who see their premiums shoot up next year will complain. Loudly.

It’s the same thing that happened with people who had their individual policies canceled this year because they did not meet the Obamacare standards. Those people claimed they were betrayed because of Obama’s 2010 pledge, “If you like your insurance plan, you will keep it.”

“The way I put that forward unequivocally,” the president acknowledged last month, “ended up not being accurate.”  http://blogs.reuters.com/great-debate/2013/12/23/2014-another-election-about-obamacare/

December 23, 2013

Continued Obamacare changes means an evolving price tag

After President Obama in 2009 promised a health care law that cost less than $1 trillion over 10 years, congressional Democrats drafted one that did just that — in spite of concerns it could compromise the policy…

Since the Affordable Care Act passed, it’s of course undergone several changes, creating an evolving price tag that’s given ammunition to the law’s supporters and opponents.

Just in the past year, one administrative change to the health law struck $10 billion in revenue from the budget, while another policy that’s in flux has been dubbed an insurer “bailout.” Other Obamacare changes altering its fiscal impact have yet to come…

Enacting a law without thinking about the fiscal impacts would be reckless, but when those estimates go wrong it can politically undermine the law. That’s how Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., ended up charging last month that Obamacare is contributing to a “perverse bailout culture” in Washington.

The senator’s statement was referring to the changing policies of the “risk corridors,” which enable the government to share in the risks and gains of the new Obamacare marketplaces. The risk corridor program was designed to stabilize the market and stop a so-called “death spiral.” It works this way: if the cost of insuring people is lower than expected, insurers pay into a pool, and if it’s higher than expected, they can draw from that pool.

“The expectation is that it’d even out, but it is possible if a much sicker group of people enrolled, there could be a cost to taxpayers,” Larry Levitt, a senior vice president at the Kaiser Family Foundation, explained to CBS News.

The program was expected to be budget neutral, but that changed after Mr. Obama announced last month that insurers could renew already-existing insurance plans for another year, even if they aren’t Obamacare-compliant. The change means that the pool of people left looking for insurance via Obamacare will be sicker — leaving the government paying for more of the risk corridor.  http://www.cbsnews.com/news/continued-obamacare-changes-means-an-evolving-price-tag/

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Will the Anglo-Saxon 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?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon 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?
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?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2021 or 20xx? There is also a video titled The 6000 Year Plan: Is the end of humanity’s reign almost up?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2014, 2015, or 2016? 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.
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?
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.
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.