Church of God News

COGwriter

The Huffington Post reported the following about Pope Francis’ activities:

July 28, 2014

VATICAN CITY (AP) – Pope Francis has become the first pope to visit a Pentecostal church, pressing his outreach to evangelicals who represent Catholicism’s greatest competition for Christian souls around the globe.

Francis flew by helicopter Monday to visit the under-construction Pentecostal Church of Reconciliation in the southern city of Caserta. He met privately with a Pentecostal preacher who is an old friend, Giovanni Traettino.

Speaking to some 350 Pentecostal faithful in the church, Francis apologized for Catholic persecution of Pentecostals during Italy’s fascist regime and stressed that there was unity in diversity within Christianity.

He acknowledged the remarkable nature of his visit, saying: “Someone will be surprised: ‘The pope went to visit the evangelicals?’ But he went to see his brothers.” http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/28/pope-francis-pentecostal_n_5627430.html?ncid=txtlnkusaolp00000592

While this is apparently a first, it is part of a Babylonian plan.  It is only AFTER Jesus returns that the true unity of faith can and will come per Zechariah 2:12-16, Ephesians 4:13, and Revelation 11:15-18. See also Beware: Protestants Going Towards Ecumenical Destruction!.   What is now happening it related to Babylon.

Catholic and biblical prophecies warn against this:

Priest H. Kramer (20th century): In the vision of the Seer now appears a second beast rising out of the earth, having two horns like a lamb but speaking like a dragon…In other places he is called the false prophet…This prophet may re-establish the pagan Roman Empire and build the “Great Harlot”, Babylon… The False Prophet…will persuade all infidels, apostates and apostate nations to worship and adore him…Antichrist “sitteth in the temple of God” (I Thes. II. 4). This is not the ancient Temple in Jerusalem…this temple is shown to be a Catholic Church…The False Prophet will proclaim the resurrection of the Roman Empire. (Kramer H., p. 318,320-323)

2…Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! 3 For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.” 4 And I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached to heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities. (Revelation 18:2-5)

1 One of the seven angels that had the seven bowls came to speak to me, and said, ‘Come here and I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute who is enthroned beside abundant waters, 2 with whom all the kings of the earth have prostituted themselves, and who has made all the population of the world drunk with the wine of her adultery.’ 3 He took me in spirit to a desert, and there I saw a woman riding a scarlet beast which had seven heads and ten horns and had blasphemous titles written all over it. 4 The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet and glittered with gold and jewels and pearls, and she was holding a gold winecup filled with the disgusting filth of her prostitution; 5 on her forehead was written a name, a cryptic name: ‘Babylon the Great, the mother of all the prostitutes and all the filthy practices on the earth.’ 6 I saw that she was drunk, drunk with the blood of the saints, and the blood of the martyrs of Jesus; and when I saw her, I was completely mystified. (Revelation 17:1-6, NJB)

9 ‘This calls for shrewdness. The seven heads are the seven hills, on which the woman is sitting…18 The woman you saw is the great city which has authority over all the rulers on earth.’ (Revelation 17:9,18, NJB)

Yet, many cannot see that the final Babylonian religious group is forming.

Gaza Tunnel (Marius Arnesen)

COGwriter

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu says Israel will fight until all Gaza tunnels are destroyed:

July 28, 2014

JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israel will not end its operation in Gaza before destroying all the Hamas-built tunnels, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an address to the nation.

Neutralizing the tunnels is the first step toward demilitarization of Gaza, Netanyahu said Monday night in a nationally televised speech from the Israel Defense Forces headquarters in Tel Aviv.  He said the international community must demand the demilitarization of Gaza and monitor the building materials that enter Gaza in the future.

“We need to be prepared for a continued operation,” Netanyahu said. “We will fight to defend our citizens, our children.”

Netanyahu’s call to continue the operation until the tunnels are destroyed appeared to be a rejection of President Obama’s insistence on an immediate and unconditional cease-fire, a message he conveyed to Netanyahu in a phone call Sunday afternoon.

IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz said the “complex” operation in Gaza could continue for several more days, adding, “The price is painful, but we remain determined.”  http://www.jta.org/2014/07/28/news-opinion/israel-middle-east/netanyahu-israel-will-not-end-gaza-war-till-tunnels-destroyed#ixzz38n8Zvjyb

Hamas and Israel do not get along and the fighting is continuing:

July 28, 2014

A fragile truce in Gaza for a Muslim holiday broke down Monday as a mortar shell fired from the Palestinian territory killed at least four people in Israel, prompting the army to resume attacks on Hamas militants.

The renewed fighting, which also killed at least six Palestinians, came despite intense international pressure on both sides to cease fire immediately.

An emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council called for “an immediate and unconditional humanitarian cease-fire,” echoing U.S. President Barack Obama‘s appeal in a phone call to Mr. Netanyahu on Sunday.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon leveled his strongest criticism yet against Israel, accusing it of “pummeling” Gazans with “indiscriminate destruction.” He warned Israel to fulfill its obligations as an “occupying power” to protect civilians.

Israeli officials are saying the military needs more time to achieve their goals of degrading Hamas’s rocket arsenal and neutralizing cross-border tunnels, which Palestinian militants are increasingly using to attack Israel.

Hamas, the Islamist group that rules Gaza, called Sunday for a 24-hour truce to mark the Muslim feast of Eid al-Fitr which marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan. The feast began on Monday and lasts for three das {sic}.  http://online.wsj.com/articles/israeli-strikes-on-gaza-break-lull-1406551863

July 28, 2014

Decrying the deaths and displacement of civilians, United Nations chief Ban Ki-moon called for an immediate break in the fighting in Gaza, a territory in “critical condition.”

“In the name of humanity, the violence must stop,” he told reporters Monday from the organization’s New York headquarters, hours after the U.N. Security Council called for “an immediate and unconditional humanitarian cease-fire” in Gaza.

“More suffering and siege conditions will only hurt innocent civilians, further isolate Israel, empower extremists on all sides and leave our world far less safe,” Ban said.

The 21-day conflict between Israel and Hamas militants already has killed more than 1,049 people and displaced at least 167,000 Palestinians, the U.N.’s main agency in Gaza said. Most of the Palestinian dead have been civilians. Israel says it has lost 43 soldiers and three civilians.

Tensions escalated Monday when an explosion that rocked a hospital and nearby park Monday killed at least 10 people, including children. Palestinians contended an Israeli missile hit Shifa Hospital; the Israelis said the attack came from a failed Hamas rocket…

Netanyahu rejected the demand, later telling U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon that it dealt with “the needs of a murderous terrorist group that attacks Israeli civilians” while neglecting the security needs of the Jewish state. http://www.voanews.com/content/un-calls-for-immediate-unconditional-cease-fire-in-gaza/1966307.html

Despite pleas from the USA President and the head of the United Nations, Israel has determined that it needs to continue this campaign.  Some reports indicate that Israel was surprised by the number and size of the tunnels, so apparently it has decided to spend more time trying to eliminate them.

Of course, if tunnels were built once (which they were), they can be built again.

While ultimately prophecy shows that much will not work out well for the Palestinians and those in Gaza (see Fighting stops and starts: What is ahead for Gaza? and Gaza and the Palestinians in Bible Prophecy), Bible prophecy also shows that trouble is coming to the land of Israel (Daniel 11:31-43), more than its Prime Minister Netanyahu seems to believe.

Here are a few:

20 But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near. (Luke 21:20)

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 24:15-17)

22 Behold, the noise of the report has come, And a great commotion out of the north country, To make the cities of Judah desolate, a den of jackals. (Jeremiah 10:22)

The modern nation of Israel contains many descendants of Judah and a time of desolation is coming to it.

Furthermore, notice one prophecy related to the Palestinians (called Philistines below) harming Israel:

8 The Lord sent a word against Jacob,
And it has fallen on Israel.
9 All the people will know —
Ephraim and the inhabitant of Samaria —
Who say in pride and arrogance of heart:
10 ‘The bricks have fallen down,
But we will rebuild with hewn stones;
The sycamores are cut down,
But we will replace them with cedars.”
11 Therefore the Lord shall set up
The adversaries of Rezin against him,
And spur his enemies on,
12 The Syrians before and the Philistines behind;
And they shall devour Israel with an open mouth.  (Isaiah 9:8-12)

Although Benjamin Netanyahu may be able to vastly delay the time of destruction, destruction is coming to the country he currently leads.

Israel, some time in the future, will agree to a ‘peace deal’ that will give relief for a few years per Daniel 9:27, but that will not end well for Israel (Daniel 11:31-39, see also The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27).

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. A video of possible interest may be Will Will USA Spying Help the Beast Power?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
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?
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 is the seven-year deal? 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?
Gaza and the Palestinians in Bible Prophecy What does the Bible teach about Gaza and the fate of the Palestinians?
The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27 This prophecy could give up to 3 1/2 years advance notice of the coming Great Tribulation. Will most ignore or misunderstand its fulfillment? Here is a link to a related sermon video Daniel 9:27 and the Start of the Great Tribulation.
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.
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.
United Nations: Humankind’s Last Hope or New World Order? Is the UN the last hope for humanity? Or might its goals end up with sinister results? A related video would be United Nations and Vatican Are Planning the New World Order.
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.

Older Ecumenical Service (Eduardo Frei Ruiz Tagle)

COGwriter

Tony Palmer died:

Tragic loss of Evangelical bishop and close friend of Pope

The breakaway Anglican bishop who forged a close friendship with Pope Francis and was due to join the Pope at a meeting in Italy on Monday has died in hospital after his motorcycle was in collision with a car near his home in the south-west of England.

Tony Palmer, who became a pioneer in talks with Pope Francis on behalf of the charismatic Evangelical movement, was due to be in Caserta with another Evangelical, Revd Giovanni Traettino of the Evangelical Church of Reconciliation. British-born Palmer died in hospital following hours of surgery…

He was a bishop with the Communion of Evangelical Episcopal Churches. He got to know Francis in Argentina.

In January this year he recorded a video message of love and unity from the Pope which he took to a charismatic conference hosted by television evangelist Kenneth Copeland. In it Francis described Palmer as “my bishop brother … We’ve known each other for years.”

Cardinal Kurt Koch, President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, sent a message of condolence to his widow.

Cardinal Koch said Bishop Palmer’s meetings with Pope Francis over recent months had given “great impetus to ecumenical relations between the Catholic Church and Evangelical Christians.” His strong faith and his passion for unity, the Cardinal said, “reached a global audience of Christians with the message that there is no time to be wasted in division, the time for unity is now.”  http://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/995/0/tragic-loss-of-evangelical-bishop-and-close-friend-of-pope

The improperly named Christianity Today reported the following:

Evangelicals and other Christians worldwide are mourning the sudden death of a bishop in a breakaway Anglican church who had become a close personal friend of Pope Francis…

The news of his death was disclosed by Archbishop Charles Hill, patriarch and presiding prelate of Ambassadors for Christ Ministries of America, who wrote on Facebook yesterday (20th): “We are in prayer for the family of Bishop Tony Palmer who was in a motorcycle accident this morning in the UK after hours of surgery he went home to be with the Lord. He was a good friend and brother in the vineyard.”

Kathy Schiffer reported on her Seasons of Grace blog: “Tony Palmer, the charismatic young preacher who enjoyed a friendship with Pope Francis, has apparently died in a motorcycle accident. Not a Catholic, Palmer was bishop in the Communion of Evangelical Episcopal Churches, a group that broke away from the Anglican Church and considered itself part of the Convergence Movement.”  http://www.christiantoday.com/article/christians.mourn.death.of.bishop.who.was.friend.of.pope.francis/38973.htm

True Christians do NOT want the type of Babylonian ecumenical unity that Tony Palmer advocated.  This is clearly condemned in the Bible (cf. Revelation 13,17,18,19).

In February 2014, I watched a YouTube video where Kenneth Copeland endorsed Catholicism, and also had a visiting Anglican bishop speak (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehFpeVGLyxs) who was referring to JDDJ.  Here is something about it:

“The Catholic and Charismatic Renewal is the hope of the Church,” exclaims Anglican Episcopal Bishop Tony Palmer, before a group of cheering followers at the Kenneth Copeland Ministries. Palmer said those words are from the Vatican. Before playing the video message from Pope Francis to Kenneth Copeland, Palmer told the crowd, “When my wife saw that she could be Catholic, and Charismatic, and Evangelical, and Pentecostal, and it was absolutely accepted in the Catholic Church, she said that she would like to reconnect her roots with the Catholic culture. So she did.

The crowd cheered, as he continued, “Brothers and sisters, Luther’s protest is over. Is yours?”

Even Kenneth Copeland finds this development incredible: Said Copeland, “Heaven is thrilled over this…You know what is so thrilling to me? When we went into the ministry 47 years ago, this was impossible.” http://standupforthetruth.com/2014/02/pope-to-copeland-catholics-and-charismatics-must-spiritually-unite/

Anglican Episcopal Bishop Tony Palmer stated that Pope Francis told him that the Charismatics were the “hope of the Church.” He also called Pope Francis his spiritual father. Furthermore, Tony Palmer claimed that Jesus was ‘sacramental’ and implemented the sacraments, presumably referring to those that the Church of Rome uses. This is in severe biblical and historical error (notice one example in the article Marcus, the Marcosians, & Mithraism: Developers of the Eucharist?).

Anglican Episcopal Bishop Tony Palmer made many ecumenical statements in the video. He also made a variety of positive statements about Pope Francis, whom he knew before Francis became Pope.

In this video, Anglican Episcopal Bishop Tony Palmer and Kenneth Copeland encouraged ecumenical unity with Catholicism. They are endorsing this.

Tony Palmer also quoted an Elijah prophecy and indicated that ecumenism was what the final Elijah would endorse, and then he said:

I have come in the Spirit of Elijah…to turn the hearts of the children to the fathers…to prepare the way of the Lord…

Elijah will come before the Second Coming…

The spirit of Elijah is the spirit of reconciliation…We know for a thousand years, there was one church called the catholic church… Catholic does not mean Rome…

Redeem what belongs to you…We are Catholic…Division destroys our unity…Fear keeps us divided…most of that fear is based upon propaganda…Brothers and sisters, Luther’s protests are over…The protests have been over for 15 years…If there is no more protests, how can there be a Protestant church…We now teach the same gospel, we now teach the same faith…The protest is over, the protest is over.

The gospel that these groups teach is one that the Apostle Paul warned against. It needs to be understood that the Greco-Roman church was NOT Christ’s church for the first 1000 years, there was a split no later than the second century (see some details in the free pdf booklet Continuing History of the Church of God). Tony Palmer is NOT here in the Spirit of Elijah (see also Elijah: Past and Prophesied and The Elijah Heresies).

Tony Palmer mentioned that there was an agreement between the Church of Rome and Lutherans in 1999 that ended the primary disagreements between those groups.  That is why he declared that the protests were over and told people that they were once again Catholic.  But as those of us in the Continuing Church of God are not Protestant, nor do we trace our history through that movement, he was referring to Protestants such as himself.

After Tony Palmer spoke, a mainly translated message from Pope Francis was shown in which Francis said the following:

God is working all over the world… We are separated… We all share the blame… And let us pray to the Lord that He unites us all… Let God complete the job He has done… He will complete this miracle of unity.

Improper unity with those who do not teach the true gospel is NOT the work of God!

It also should be noted that the  ‘miracles’ associated with ecumenical unity are all warned against in the Bible (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12; Revelation 13:11-18).  As far as blame, yes the Church of Rome and the Protestants have a lot of blame, but the biggest blame is perhaps their failure to misunderstand the following:

3…contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3)

Because they do not understand original and real Christianity, many falsely think that the Church of Rome had it before and has it now.  This is outrageous, but sadly what many think, including apparently Kenneth Copeland and Tony Palmer. A video of related interest is titled Charismatic Kenneth Copeland and Anglican Tony Palmer: Protestants Beware!

Today, it was reported the Pope Francis met with others outside his church:

July 28, 2014

Pope Francis has met privately with Evangelical pastor and friend Rev. Giovanni Traettino in Caserta, southern Italy.  After the private visit this morning with the friend he’s known since early ministry in Buenos Aires, the Pope surprisingly met with the Community of the Pentecostal Church of Reconciliation — which is under construction — and gave a speech. The Vatican has said the text of the talk is being transcribed and will be published soon.  http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/pope-surprises-on-private-visit-to-caserta

The ecumenical movement is gaining traction and this will not end well for the Catholics or the Pentecostal Protestants (or anyone else involved).

These ecumenical plans are dangerous.

Few people realize how fast the ecumenical movement is moving.  Despite the death of Tony Palmer, it will come to pass.

The Bible teaches that the only true unity of the faith will happen AFTER the false ecumenical movement is eliminated which happens with the return of Jesus Christ:

6 “Up, up! Flee from the land of the north,” says the Lord; “for I have spread you abroad like the four winds of heaven,” says the Lord. 7 “Up, Zion! Escape, you who dwell with the daughter of Babylon.”

8 For thus says the Lord of hosts: “He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye. 9 For surely I will shake My hand against them, and they shall become spoil for their servants. Then you will know that the Lord of hosts has sent Me.

10 “Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion! For behold, I am coming and I will dwell in your midst,” says the Lord. 11 “Many nations shall be joined to the Lord in that day, and they shall become My people. And I will dwell in your midst. Then you will know that the Lord of hosts has sent Me to you. 12 And the Lord will take possession of Judah as His inheritance in the Holy Land, and will again choose Jerusalem. (Zechariah 2:6-13)

Zechariah 2:6-7 is warning against the type of ecumenical unity that Tony Palmer was trying to promote. Notice the biblical warning against the “daughter of Babylon.” This is not a reference to ancient Babylon, but a warning against the Babylonian religious and political system warned about in Revelation 13:4-8; 17, and 18.

COGwriter

Notice a report related to the release of trapped methane gas in the Arctic suggests it may raise temperatures and sea levels:

LONDON — A release of methane in the Arctic could speed the melting of sea ice and climate change with a cost to the global economy of up to $60 trillion over coming decades, according to a paper published in the journal Nature.

Researchers at the University of Cambridge and Erasmus University in the Netherlands used economic modeling to calculate the consequences of a release of a 50-gigatonne reservoir of methane from thawing permafrost under the East Siberian Sea…

That approaches the value of the global economy, which was around $70 trillion last year.

The costs could be even greater if other factors such as ocean acidification were included, the study said, or reduced to some $37 trillion if action is taken to lower emissions.

As much as 80 percent of the costs would likely be borne by developing countries experiencing more extreme weather, flooding, droughts and poorer health as the Arctic melt affects the global climate, the paper said.

Methane is a greenhouse gas usually trapped as methane hydrate in sediment beneath the seabed. As temperatures rise, the hydrate breaks down and methane is released from the seabed, mostly dissolving into the seawater.

But if trapped methane were to break the sea surface and escape into the atmosphere, it could “speed up sea-ice retreat, reduce the reflection of solar energy and accelerate the melting of the Greenland ice sheet,” the study said.

It said that could bring forward the date at which the global mean temperature rise exceeds 2 degrees Celsius by between 15 and 35 years — to 2035 if no action is taken to curb emissions and to 2040 if enough action is taken to have a 50 percent chance of keeping the rise below 2 degrees.

Scientists have said the rise in global average temperatures this century needs to stay below 2 degrees Celsius to prevent devastating climate effects such as crop failure and melting glaciers.

However, the International Energy Agency warned last month that the world is on course for a rise of 3.6 to 5.3 degrees Celsius citing record high global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions last year. http://www.voanews.com/content/reu-study-indicates-methane-gas-release-could-cost-economy-up-to-60-trillion/1709431.html

Presuming that the above is accurate (and yes, there have been a lot of manipulated climate-related reports, and some have disputed this methane matter), it is of some possible prophetic concern.

The Bible itself tells of a time of disturbances including rising sea levels before Jesus returns:

25 “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; 26 men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. (Luke 21:25-27)

41 Oh, how the praise of the whole earth is seized! How Babylon has become desolate among the nations! 42 The sea has come up over Babylon; She is covered with the multitude of its waves. 43 Her cities are a desolation, A dry land and a wilderness, A land where no one dwells, Through which no son of man passes. 44 I will punish Bel in Babylon, And I will bring out of his mouth what he has swallowed; And the nations shall not stream to him anymore. Yes, the wall of Babylon shall fall. 45 “My people, go out of the midst of her! And let everyone deliver himself from the fierce anger of the LORD (Jeremiah 51:41-45).

17 Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, “It is done!” 18 And there were noises and thunderings and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such a mighty and great earthquake as had not occurred since men were on the earth. 19 Now the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell. And great Babylon was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath. 20 Then every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. (Revelation 16:17-20)

The Bible teaches that a time of high heat is coming (and that is higher heat than the amount that methane now seems to be indicated as possibly being involved in):

8 Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and power was given to him to scorch men with fire. 9 And men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give Him glory. (Revelation 16:8-9)

And although the above heat is being released by an angelic being, it may very well be that Arctic methane release will be one factor to predispose the planet for that heat, as well as possibly the rising sea levels.

Notice also the following which suggests that humans severely damaged the environment:

18 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).

As far as humankind’s intended role with the environment, notice the following:

15 Then the LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it (Genesis 2:15).

The concept of tending and keeping a garden suggests proper environmental stewardship. While I do not wish to get into the global warming debate (and “destroying the earth” is likely to include moral issues and war and not just pollution), I will state that the Bible shows that God is not pleased when humans abuse the environment.

And the time for God’s judgment is coming. It is even possible that the “beginning of sorrows” which includes “troubles” has began. The time to turn to God is now, for whosoever will respond to God’s calling.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Weather Blessings and Sorrows Are weather problems a warning? What should be done? What does the Bible teach about weather? Here is a related YouTube video Does God Use Weather?
Islands and Bible Prophecy What’s ahead for islands? What does the Bible prophesy about them?
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?
Just What Do You Mean — Repentance? Do you know what repentance is? Have you truly repented? Repented of what? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject.
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.
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? When does the six thousand years of human rule end?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2014, 2015, or 2016? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before in the “beginning of sorrows”? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Physical Preparation Scriptures for Christians. We all know the Bible prophecies famines. Should we do something?

COGwriter

Zenit, a pro-Vatican news agency reported the following about Pope Francis:

July 27, 2014

Pope Francis says Christians who wish to inherit the kingdom of heaven must place God first in their lives and say no to corruption and violence. …

The Pontiff said although Jesus “doesn’t bother explaining” what the kingdom is, he says it “is at hand,” for the Lord is not only “near” his people, but “among” them. …

On how to possess the kingdom, the Pope said Christians must put God first in their lives. “Giving primacy to God means having the courage to say no to evil, violence, oppression, and [instead] living a life of service to others and in favor of the law and the common good,” he said. “When a person finds God, the true treasure, they leave a selfish lifestyle and look to share with others the love that comes from God.”

Putting God first, the Holy Father explained, requires you “to have the courage to say no to any form of corruption and lawlessness” and “to be a servant of the truth and to assume every situation in the style of the living Gospel,” which is “manifested in the gift of self and attention to the poor and the excluded.”

Speaking off the cuff, the Pontiff asked those present a question. “How many of you read a passage of the Gospel every day?” He joked they didn’t need to raise their hands, but suggested they may be misplacing their priorities by asking: “How many of you rush to finish your work to not miss a soap opera?”  http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/pope-at-caserta-how-to-inherit-the-kingdom-of-god

As far as violence goes, history shows that Francis’ church has directly and employed employed violence against perceived opponents throughout the centuries.  Popes told the Crusaders that by dying in battle that they would attain the kingdom that way.  All of this is contrary to the Bible and what Pope Francis at least implied today.

Unlike the Church of Rome, the Church of God has always opposed its members participating in military and similar violence.  See also Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare or Encourage Violence?

Jesus Taught About the Kingdom

As far as the report that Pope Francis said Jesus “doesn’t bother explaining” what the kingdom is, this shows a lack of understanding what is recorded in the gospel accounts that Jesus said.

Jesus taught that His followers would pray for the kingdom to come, hence they do not already possess it:

Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done (Matthew 6:9-10).

During His ministry, He sent the disciples out to preach the kingdom of God:

Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. He sent them to preach the kingdom of God (Luke 9:1-2).

Jesus taught that His presence alone was not the kingdom, because it was not there yet:

28 But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you (Matthew 12:28).

The kingdom is in the future, it is not here now as these verses from Mark show:

47 And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye, rather than having two eyes, to be cast (Mark 9:47).

Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:23-25).

25 Assuredly, I say to you, I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God” (Mark 14:25).

43 Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent council member, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, coming and taking courage (Mark 15:43).

Jesus taught that the kingdom is not now part of this present world:

36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here” (John 18:36).

Jesus taught that the kingdom will come after He comes again and that He will be its King:

“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world (Matthew 25:31-34).

Jesus provided some explanations of what the kingdom of God is like:

And He said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come” (Mark 4:26-29).

Then He said, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and put in his garden; and it grew and became a large tree, and the birds of the air nested in its branches.” And again He said, “To what shall I liken the kingdom of God? It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened” (Luke 13:18-21).

These parables suggests that, at first, the kingdom of God is quite small, but will become large.

Luke also recorded:

29 They will come from the east and the west, from the north and the south, and sit down in the kingdom of God (Luke 13:29).

Thus, the kingdom is something that one can sit down in. And that is true of all kingdoms. They have a king, they cover a geographic area, they have rules, and they have subjects.

Also, people will actually eat in the kingdom:

15 “Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!” (Luke 14:15).

Since people will (in the future) eat in the kingdom, it is not just something set aside in their hearts now (in spite of mistranslations of Luke 17:21 which suggest otherwise).

The disciples knew that the kingdom was not within them, and that it had to appear as the following shows:

Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately (Luke 19:11).

Jesus confirmed this, as Luke records:

Then He spoke to them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. When they are already budding, you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near. So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near (Luke 21:29-31).

Jesus clearly showed that the kingdom of God was something that would happen in the future when He taught:

“With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes” (Luke 22:15-18).

39 But one of those evildoers who were crucified with him was blaspheming him and he said, “If you are The Messiah, save yourself and save us also.” 40 And his companion rebuked him and he said to him, “Are you not even afraid of God? For you also are in condemnation with him. 41 And we justly so, because we are worthy, for we are repaid according to what we have done, but nothing evil has been done by this one.” 42 And he said to Yeshua, “My Lord, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” 43But Yeshua said to him, “Amen, I say to you that today you shall be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:39-43, Aramaic Bible in Plain English)

Jesus and His faithful followers did explain what the Kingdom of God was. For more information, see also The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church.

Seek First the Kingdom of God

Perhaps I should add that Pope Francis is correct in his insinuation that people should make time to read the gospels.  I would have stated that Christians should make Bible reading (the entire Bible and not just the gospels) and studying a true priority in their lives.  [We also have a free online Study the Bible Course. It is also available in French (Leçon 1 En francés), Kiswahili (Somo 1 Katika Kiswahili), Mandarin Chinese (首页 › 中国), Tagalog (KURSO SA PAG-ARAL NG BIBLYA), and Spanish (Lección 1 En castellano).]

Although I would have worded it differently, Pope Francis is also correct that one who truly wishes to be a Christian should seek first the Kingdom of God and make it a top priority.

The kingdom of God was not only the emphasis of Jesus’ ministry, He wanted it to be the top priority for those who would follow Him as He taught:

33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33).

But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom (Luke 12:31-32).

Notice that the kingdom will be given to a little flock. Hence the kingdom cannot be a massive church that now exists in the Western world nor the massive ecumenical-interfaith church that Pope Francis and the United Nations have advocated.  The Bible warns about the type of unity that these groups are working on (Revelation 13:4,8; 17; 18).

It is only AFTER the Kingdom of God is established on this earth that the true unity of faith can and will come per Zechariah 2:12-16, Ephesians 4:13, and Revelation 11:15-18.  See also Why Should American Catholics Fear Unity with the Orthodox?

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

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.
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare or Encourage Violence? 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? A related sermon would be: Christians, Violence, and Military Service.
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.
Continuing History of the Church of God This pdf booklet is a historical overview of the true Church of God and some of its main opponents from c. 31 A.D. to 2014. A related sermon link would be Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D. Marque aquí para ver el pdf folleto: Continuación de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios.
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 about the ecumenical movement?
United Nations: Humankind’s Last Hope or New World Order? Is the UN the last hope for humanity? Or might its goals end up with sinister results? A related video would be United Nations and Vatican Are Planning the New World Order.
Study the Bible Course Want to learn more about the Bible? This new course is for you! It is also available in French (Leçon 1 En francés), Kiswahili (Somo 1 Katika Kiswahili), Mandarin Chinese (首页 › 中国), Tagalog (KURSO SA PAG-ARAL NG BIBLYA), and Spanish (Lección 1 En castellano).
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading. Here is a link in Mandarin Chinese: 读圣经 Here is a link in the Spanish language: Lea la Biblia.
Could Pope Francis be the Last Pope and Antichrist? Former Argentinian Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio is now Pope Francis. According to some interpretations of the prophecies of the popes by the Catholic saint and Bishop Malachy, Pope Francis 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 be the heretical antipope of Catholic private prophecies and the final Antichrist of Bible prophecy? Could a Jesuit be “the black pope”?
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?
The Last Pope Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Why might Pope Francis be the last pope? What happens if he is? Biblical and other prophecies help explain what to expect.
The Last Pope: Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Amazon Book What does the Bible say about a pope near this time? Is the final pope to be an antipope and antichrist? Does Catholic prophecy point to Pope Francis as being the dreaded “Peter the Roman”? This 186 page book provides information and answers.
The Last Pope: Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Kindle This electronic version of the printed book which 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 The Last Pope: Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Kindle.

Iron Dome system intercepts Gaza rockets per the Israel Defense Forces

COGwriter

After a pause, Israel resumed its offensive in Gaza today, despite a temporary cease-fire deal Hamas seemed to agree to:

July 27, 2014

Hostilities resumed Sunday in the Gaza Strip after Palestinian militants unleashed volleys of rockets at Israel and the Israelis declared an end to a temporary humanitarian truce. Once again, huge explosions reverberated across the coastal enclave and plumes of black smoke stained the horizon…

In a statement, the Israeli government blamed “incessant rocket fire” for scuttling Israel’s unilateral 24-hour extension of Saturday’s daylong cease-fire. During that lull, Palestinians dug about 150 bodies from the rubble of ruined districts and carried away what they could salvage. Many sobbed when they got their first glimpse of destroyed homes.

On Sunday afternoon, Hamas called for another 24-hour pause in fighting, beginning at 2 p.m. local time — which would span the final iftar, or the meal breaking a fast, of the holy month of Ramadan, and the start of the festive Eid al-Fitr. But it was not immediately clear whether Israel would agree to another temporary cease-fire.

Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system has intercepted many of the rockets fired by Palestinian militants in Gaza, with most others falling in open areas.  http://www.latimes.com/world/middleeast/la-fg-gaza-truce-ends-20140727-story.html

July 27, 2014

Hamas belatedly agreed Sunday to a new 24-hour humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza, but Israel said it would continue to bomb tunnels militants use to smuggle weapons and fighters into the Jewish state.

Israel did not immediately respond to the Hamas statement it would agree to a new cease-fire before the Eid al-Fitr holiday marking the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.  Hamas originally rejected an Israeli offer to extend a Saturday cease-fire and fighting quickly resumed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the CNN television network Hamas was violating its own cease-fire by continuing to fire rockets from Gaza into Israel.

With the growing toll of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, Netanyahu said he realized that world opinion may be turning against Israel in the 20-day conflict.  But he vowed Israel would “take whatever action is necessary to protect our people.”

The warfare has been among the most deadly in clashes between Israel and its Arab neighbors in the past several years.  Palestinians said their death toll has topped 1,050, most of them civilians, while Israel said it has lost 43 soldiers and three civilians.  http://www.voanews.com/content/spokesman-hamas-agrees-to-new-twenty-four-hour-truce-in-gaza/1965970.html

July 27, 2014

Palestinian militant group Hamas has announced a 24-hour ceasefire after Israel ended its own truce amid continuing rocket fire from Gaza.

All Palestinian militant factions would stop firing from 11:00 GMT, Hamas said.

But Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said Hamas had already violated its own ceasefire and “Israel will do what it must do to defend its people”.

More than 1,060 Palestinians, mostly civilians, and 43 Israeli soldiers and two Israeli civilians have been killed.

A Thai national in Israel has also died.

In a more explicit response to the Hamas ceasefire, an Israeli official told the BBC Israel did not accept it.  http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-28511075

Hamas and Israel do not get along.

One aspect of potential prophetic interest here is that temporary cease-fires have been proposed and partially agreed to three-four times in the past two days.  The reason this is of prophetic interest is partially because the positions of both the Palestinians and the Israelis are incompatible.  Since their positions are incompatible, neither side is inclined to make a deal that they perceive is expected to be permanent.  The Bible tells of a temporary deal, one with a portion that will eventually be confirmed for seven-years by the one who will become the Beast of the sea power of Revelation 13, that will happen in the region in Daniel 9:27 (for more details, please see The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27).

So, the idea of temporary ‘cease-fires’ is consistent with what the Bible teaches will happen.

As far as the Bible, the Palestinians, and Gaza goes, there are several prophecies that discuss what will happen.

According to a prophecy in the Book of Isaiah, the Palestinians (biblically referred to as Philistines), apparently along with some Syrians, are prophesied to be involved in war:

8 The Lord sent a word against Jacob, And it has fallen on Israel. 9 All the people will know — Ephraim and the inhabitant of Samaria — Who say in pride and arrogance of heart: 10 ‘The bricks have fallen down, But we will rebuild with hewn stones; The sycamores are cut down, But we will replace them with cedars.” 11 Therefore the Lord shall set up The adversaries of Rezin against him, And spur his enemies on, 12 The Syrians before and the Philistines behind; And they shall devour Israel with an open mouth. (Isaiah 9:8-12)

Since the above prophecy involves Ephraim and Samaria, this is indicative that the UK and USA will themselves be attacked (see Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel), apparently including terroristic tactics (hitting them before and behind).  Hamas has used terrorism in the past and is expected to do so in the future.

Bible prophecy tells of calamity coming to Gaza and other lands:

17 Then I took the cup from the Lord’s hand, and made all the nations drink, to whom the Lord had sent me: 18 Jerusalem and the cities of Judah, its kings and its princes, to make them a desolation, an astonishment, a hissing, and a curse, as it is this day; 19 Pharaoh king of Egypt, his servants, his princes, and all his people; 20 all the mixed multitude, all the kings of the land of Uz, all the kings of the land of the Philistines (namely, Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and the remnant of Ashdod); 21 Edom, Moab, and the people of Ammon; 22 all the kings of Tyre, all the kings of Sidon, and the kings of the coastlands which are across the sea; 23 Dedan, Tema, Buz, and all who are in the farthest corners; 24 all the kings of Arabia and all the kings of the mixed multitude who dwell in the desert; 25 all the kings of Zimri, all the kings of Elam, and all the kings of the Medes; 26 all the kings of the north, far and near, one with another; and all the kingdoms of the world which are on the face of the earth. Also the king of Sheshach shall drink after them.

27 “Therefore you shall say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: “Drink, be drunk, and vomit! Fall and rise no more, because of the sword which I will send among you.”‘ 28 And it shall be, if they refuse to take the cup from your hand to drink, then you shall say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts: “You shall certainly drink! 29 For behold, I begin to bring calamity on the city which is called by My name, and should you be utterly unpunished? You shall not be unpunished, for I will call for a sword on all the inhabitants of the earth,” says the Lord of hosts.’ (Jeremiah 25:17-29)

Many of the lands above are listed as supporters of the final King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43) and/or part of a confederation that will be destroyed that will involve Egypt (Ezekiel 30:3-8).

The entire 47th chapter of Jeremiah is a prophecy against the Philistines, including Gaza:

1 The word of the Lord that came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before Pharaoh attacked Gaza.

2 Thus says the Lord: “Behold, waters rise out of the north, And shall be an overflowing flood; They shall overflow the land and all that is in it, The city and those who dwell within; Then the men shall cry, And all the inhabitants of the land shall wail. 3 At the noise of the stamping hooves of his strong horses, At the rushing of his chariots, At the rumbling of his wheels, The fathers will not look back for their children,Lacking courage, 4 Because of the day that comes to plunder all the Philistines,To cut off from Tyre and Sidon every helper who remains; For the Lord shall plunder the Philistines, The remnant of the country of Caphtor. 5 Baldness has come upon Gaza, Ashkelon is cut off With the remnant of their valley. How long will you cut yourself? 6 “O you sword of the Lord, How long until you are quiet? Put yourself up into your scabbard, Rest and be still! 7 How can it be quiet, Seeing the Lord has given it a charge Against Ashkelon and against the seashore? There He has appointed it.” (Jeremiah 47:2-7)

Problems are thus prophesied for Gaza and the Palestinians.

Notice also the following:

Vast Confederacy…

Notice especially prophetic Psalm 83. Here we find described a coming coalition of nations of the Middle East whose purpose will be to eradicate the name of Israel! They will say, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance” (verse 4).

This prophecy could never have been fulfilled until this 20th century. Why?

Since ancient times (the 8th century B.C.) there has not been — until this century — a nation in the Middle East recognized officially by the name Israel. But there is an Israel today. This is clearly a prophecy for these latter days!

Among the participants in this wide-ranging confederacy revealed in Psalm 83 will be Gebal (ancient Byblos, modern Jubayl) and “the Philistines [Palestinians centered in the Gaza Strip] with the inhabitants of Tyre” (verse 7).

Here we see that it was anciently — and accurately — prophesied that Palestinian Arabs would in these tumultuous last days become associated in some way with the cities of Lebanon. The prophet Jeremiah (47:4) also speaks of the Philistines and their allies from Tyre and Sidon.

But this prophesied alliance in Psalm 83 will not endure long. The Bible reveals that meanwhile, in our time, a great European military dictator — known in the book of Revelation as the “beast” and in the prophecy of Daniel as the “king of the north” — will arise and ultimately descend upon the Middle East. (Request our free booklet Who Is the Beast? for details.)

The beast’s intervention will have dire consequences for Israeli and Arab alike. Both Israel (“the glorious land”) and Egypt will be occupied by the beast’s troops (Dan. 11:40-42). (Stump K. LEBANON’S FUTURE Foretold in the Bible! Plain Truth, September-October 1982)

As the Gazites/Palestinians seem to be related to the other Arabic peoples, prophecies related to the Arabic peoples will also apply, such as Ezekiel 30:2-8). Many of those can be found in the articles The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy, Is the Future King of the South Rising Up?, and The Prophesied ‘Islamic’ Confederation.

Essentially, biblical prophecy teaches that the Palestinians of Gaza and the West Bank will support confederations which will not end well in this age. They will, for a time, believe that they will be protected by a temporary ‘peace deal’ (Daniel 9:27) that will not end well (Daniel 11:11:31, 40-43) according to biblical, and even Islamic prophecy (see also The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy).

That being said, Jesus will come and straighten this world out (see also The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church).

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Gaza and the Palestinians in Bible Prophecy What does the Bible teach about Gaza and the fate of the Palestinians?
Is the Future King of the South Rising Up? Some no longer believe there needs to be a future King of the South. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi or Caliph? What does the Bible say? A YouTube video of related interest may be: The Future King of the South is Rising.
The Prophesied ‘Islamic’ Confederation Where is an Islamic caliphate prophesied? Will one happen? Should you be concerned about it?
The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27 This prophecy could give up to 3 1/2 years advance notice of the coming Great Tribulation. Will most ignore or misunderstand its fulfillment? Here is a link to a related sermon video Daniel 9:27 and the Start of the Great Tribulation.
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims? An item of possibly related interest in the Spanish language would be: Líderes iraníes condenan la hipocresía de Occidente y declaran que ahora es tiempo para prepararse para el Armagedón, la guerra, y el Imán Mahdi.
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.
Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar Assad hold power as he has it? Does the Bible show that Damascus, the capital of Syria, will be destroyed? What will happen to Syria? Will the Syrians support the final King of the South that the Bible tells will rise up? Which scriptures discuss the rise and fall of an Arabic confederation? Does Islamic prophecy predict the destruction of Syria. This is a YouTube video.
Egypt in Prophecy Does Egypt have a special role in end time prophecy? Will Egypt rise up and then be defeated. What does God teach will happen to those in Egypt? Here is a link to a YouTube video titled Egypt and End Time Prophecy.
Iraq, the King of the South, Armageddon, and Prophecy What will happen to Iraq? Is it the prophesied Mystery Babylon? What is Armageddon and how does that have to do with Iraq? Here is a related video Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy.
Iran in Prophecy Is Iran in Bible prophecy? If so, what does the Bible teach? What names, other than Persia, may be used to describe Iran? There is also a YouTube video titled Iran in Prophecy. Here is a related video Iran In Prophecy.
What Should You Know About Turkey in Prophecy Do you know the Turkish people descended from? Did the Ottoman Empire possibly fulfill a promise in Genesis? Will Turkey support the European King of the North or Arabic King of the South? Will it betray one of them? Will Turkey be involved in the encouraging the destruction of Israel? Is Turkey going to become Catholic? Is Turkey mentioned in Psalm 83, Daniel 11, and elsewhere in the Bible? This video provides answers.
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 (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. A video of possible interest may be Will Will USA Spying Help the Beast Power?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
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?
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 is the seven-year deal? 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?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

COGwriter

The Continuing Church of God is pleased to announce our latest video on our Bible New Prophecy YouTube channel:

24:09

Ezekiel 38: For Russia, Ukraine, & Iran Now?

Boycott Russia Logo

COGwriter

The campaign to boycott Russian businesses and goods has ramped up in western Ukraine with technology and ‘flash mob’ tactics:

July 26, 2014

War might be at their doorstep but Ukrainian citizens are using a more peaceful style of dissent against Russia.

Across the capital Kiev last weekend, young men and women converged on Russian-owned cafes and restaurants. With each sale, the activists feigned their own death. They held signs that said “Russia kills!” against their chest as they lay prone on the floor…

Tymur Pliushch, a founder of Resistance, told Fairfax Media the flash mobs began in 2013 after Russia’s trade blockade, but the Crimean crisis and the recent MH17 incident revitalised the campaign…

“The campaign was called ‘Russian products are killing’,” he says. “That means money that consumers are paying for Russian goods might be used for the financial support of military actions in Ukraine.”

Activists have also built a smartphone app telling people which stores to avoid, in order to not send money back to Russia. The app, called “Boycott Invaders”, also allows users to scan barcodes as they shop, providing an instant answer on whether the product is Russian-made or owned…

Ukrainian shoppers say they did not usually notice where the products came from, only the price and quality.

“Now I am paying attention,” one woman told Radio Free Europe. “If it’s manufactured in Russia, I ask for something else.”

A man says, “it is just wrong to buy the aggressor’s product”. Yet another says they now choose Chinese products over Russian. http://www.smh.com.au/world/ukraine-in-campaign-to-boycott-russian-goods-restaurants-sex-20140726-zx5zn.html#ixzz38aE6KcRx

July 26, 2014

With tensions high between Ukraine and Russia, in the city of Kiev a band of youths have employed a lie-down approach to protesting against the Kremlin.

Across the Ukrainian capital young men and women vented their frustrations by converging on Russian-owned cafes and restaurants and lying down on the floor.

The flash mob protest, given the title ‘Russian products are killing’, has been conceived to make consumers more aware about the products they are buying. Tymur Pliushch, a founder of Resistance and the group responsible for organizing the flash mob, told Fairfax Media that the proceeds from Russian goods might be used for the “financial support of military actions in Ukraine.” https://au.news.yahoo.com/a/24556956/ukrainian-s-lie-down-during-flash-mob-russian-kills/

To try to get around this, in April 2014, many Russian manufacturers changed Russian barcodes to those of Ukrainian manufacturers.  Yet sales of Russian-made goods have dropped significantly in Ukraine.

I began to warn last year about potential splits occurring in Ukraine.  If this ‘boycott Russia’ movement becomes more successful, this may economically force more ethnic Russians who live in Ukraine to want to split from Ukraine.  Some may move to other places, while others may become more inclined to support the separatists there.

Of course, there are now more international boycotts, called sanctions, against Russia related to its involvement with Ukraine.  Russia is not pleased with that.  Here is a report from a Russian news source related to that:

July 26, 2014

MOSCOW, July 26 (RIA Novosti) – By imposing additional sanctions against Russia, the European Union puts under threat international cooperation in security field, Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

“Once again taking the lead from Washington on the issue of additional anti-Russian sanctions, the European Union … basically puts under threat international security cooperation,” the statement reads.

Russian Foreign Ministry underlined that additional list of sanctions is “a direct evidence that EU countries set a course for the total rollback of cooperation with Russia in international and regional security, including combating spread of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, organized crime and other challenges and threats.”

“Brussels is now responsible for this step made amid the dramatic worsening of the international situation, in particular in Afghanistan, Middle East, North Africa and other areas,” Russian Foreign Ministry stressed.  http://en.ria.ru/russia/20140726/191311888/EU-Sanctions-Against-Russia-Put-Under-Threat-Security.html

Threats to “international security cooperation” should be understood to be very broad and that Russia may veto more in the UN Security Council as well as take some specific military steps.

Notice also the following:

July 26, 2014

MOSCOW, July 26 (RIA Novosti) – Militia forces have managed to take control of the Ukrainian checkpoint Marinivka in Donetsk region, the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic (DNR) said Saturday on Twitter.

“DNR army divisions have fought their way to the state border with the Russian Federation, and took control of the Marinivka checkpoint,” the statement said.

On Friday, it was reported that intense shooting and cannonade had been heard in that area. Several shells exploded near a Russian checkpoint – in the field and by the road linking the customs post with the Primiussky village.

Russian Defense Ministry said on Friday that the Russian territory had been shelled by Ukrainian forces nine times already. As a result of one of the attacks, a Russian citizen was killed in the city of Donetsk, Rostov region. Russian Foreign Ministry declared a protest to Ukraine in connection with these attacks and demanded to cease such hostilities. http://en.ria.ru/world/20140726/191308283/Independence-Supporters-Capture-Checkpoint-near.html

July 26, 2014

Fighting neared Donetsk Saturday, and explosions were heard within the rebel-controlled eastern city as the Ukrainian army pressed insurgents who have bolstered defenses after a string of defeats…

U.S. officials have accused Russia of massing more troops on its border, and firing artillery into Ukraine in recent days, most likely in a bid to prevent Ukrainian troops from sealing the border and cutting off weapon supplies to rebels.

Shelling was heard around Donetsk early Saturday. It was not immediately unclear what the damage or casualties were, but residents reported being awoken by heavy explosions.

“Last night was terrible. I was woken up at 3 a.m. by the explosions. The walls shook, the windows shook,” Marina, who lives in a southern part of the city, told Reuters. “There was shooting all over the city. And it still goes on. Maybe it’s a little quieter now, but it’s all around.”  http://www.voanews.com/content/ukraine-donetsk-fighting-sanctions/1965751.html

KIEV, Ukraine — Rather than backing down after last week’s downing of a civilian passenger jet, Russia appears to be intervening more aggressively in the war in eastern Ukraine in what American and Ukrainian officials call a dangerous escalation that will almost certainly force more robust retaliation from the United States and Europe.

Russia has increased its direct involvement in fighting between the Ukrainian military and separatist insurgents, moving more of its own troops to the border and preparing to arm the rebels with ever more potent weapons, including high-powered Tornado rocket launchers…While Russia flatly denied accelerating its intervention on Friday, American and Ukrainian officials said Moscow appeared anxious to stem gains by government forces that have succeeded in retaking some rebel-held territory…

American and Ukrainian officials said Russia has moved beyond simply helping separatists and is now engaging directly in the war. Multiple Ukrainian military planes have been brought down in recent days by missiles fired from Russian territory, and now artillery batteries are firing from across the border into Ukraine, the officials said.  http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/26/world/europe/russian-artillery-fires-into-ukraine-kiev-says.html?_r=0

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin is planning his next move.  He does not want Kiev to control Donetsk, but also does not seem to wish to have a full war in the east. He wants all former Soviet states to support his Eurasian Union, and is likely calculating what will happen in other lands depending on how he reacts.

A Eurasian Union will come according to biblical prophecy, but it does not have to come for some years, though the small confederation to be called the Eurasian Union is set to start in January 2015.  Yet that new union only has three countries.  As Vladimir Putin wants more than that, he is trying to best decide how Russia will proceed now.  While he does not like sanctions or boycotts, he is also concerned about how other former Soviet states are viewing Russia’s actions with Ukraine (such as Moldova, which he also wants).

But he also does not want to lose Ukrainian territory.  War is not only in the present, it is also in the future for Russia and those in Ukraine.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Russia and Ukraine: Origins and Prophesied Future Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end? You can also watch the short video Ukraine in Prophecy?
Russia in the Bible and in Prophecy Is Russia mentioned in the Bible? It it is where is it? Is there any evidence of a people moving to the land that the Russians now occupy? What do Catholic and other prophecies say about Russia? What does the Bible teach? How are Protestants often in error on this? Is there more in biblical prophecy for Russia than war? Does God have a plan to save Russia and her allies? Does Russia have a history involving Sabbath keepers? Does scripture tie Russia in with Armageddon? Will Russia help defeat the end time Babylonian power? What did the Apostle John, and the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Daniel, write about Russia? This is a sermon-length video.
Ezekiel 38: For Russia & Iran in Our Day? Is Ezekiel 38 about to be fufilled? A related video is available titled Ezekiel 38: For Russia, Ukraine, & Iran Now?
Bible News Prophecy July-Sept. 2014: The Coming Eurasian Union Here is the latest magazine from the Continuing Church of God. The cover of which shows Vladimir Putin and features an article about the coming Eurasian Union.
Hillary Clinton in Prophecy Prophecy, Hillary Clinton? Are there prophecies that Hillary Clinton may fulfill? Are there any prophecies that she has already helped fulfill? Could Hillary Clinton be apocalyptic? Could Hillary Clinton be the final Antichrist?
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 sermon video: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives.
The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27 This prophecy could give up to 3 1/2 years advance notice of the coming Great Tribulation. Will most ignore or misunderstand its fulfillment? Here is a link to a related sermon video Daniel 9:27 and the Start of the Great Tribulation.
Blood Moons and Prophecy There are four ‘blood moons’ expected in 2014 and 2015. Do they signal the Day of the Lord or the return of Jesus Christ? A related YouTube video is also available: Blood Moons, Prophecy, 2014, and 2015.
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.
Must the Ten Kings of Revelation 17:12 Rule over Ten Currently Existing Nations? Some claim that these passages refer to a gathering of 10 currently existing nations together, while one group teaches that this is referring to 11 nations getting together. Is that what Revelation 17:12-13 refers to? The ramifications of misunderstanding this are enormous.
World War III: Steps in Progress Are there surprising actions going on now that are leading to WWIII? Might a nuclear attack be expected? Does the Bible promise protection to all or only some Christians? How can you be part of those that will be protected? A related video would be Is World War III About to Begin? Can You Escape?
Wars, rumors of wars, and the Apocalypse Jesus foretold a time before the end where there would be wars and rumors of wars. The Apocalypse (the Book of Revelation) warns of the red horseman of war. Now, even secular writers, like Larry Edelson, are worried that wars and rumors of war are the most menacing problem that now haunts the earth? Are they right? What is the solution? This is a sermonette-length video.
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
The Eurasian Union, the Kings of the East, and Bible Prophecy Is there a Eurasian union that will be formed? Is one being formed right now? Are any leaders working on that in the 21st century? Does the Bible teach that there will be a Eurasian union? If some type of Eurasian union is formed, who might it benefit and who will it destroy? A related video would be Is The Eurasian Union Rising?
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.

COGwriter

The US State Department announced the following:

July 26, 2014

Due to the ongoing violence resulting from clashes between Libyan militias in the immediate vicinity of the U.S. Embassy in Tripoli, we have temporarily relocated all of our personnel out of Libya.

We are committed to supporting the Libyan people during this challenging time, and are currently exploring options for a permanent return to Tripoli as soon as the security situation on the ground improves. In the interim, staff will operate from Washington and other posts in the region.

Securing our facilities and ensuring the safety of our personnel are top Department priorities, and we did not make this decision lightly. Security has to come first. Regrettably, we had to take this step because the location of our embassy is in very close proximity to intense fighting and ongoing violence between armed Libyan factions…

We reiterate that Libyans must immediately cease hostilities and begin negotiations to resolve their grievances. We join the international community in calling on all Libyans to respect the will of the people, including the authority of the recently-elected Council of Representatives, and to reject the use of violence to affect political processes.  http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2014/07/229805.htm

Notice also:

July 26, 2014

The withdrawal underscored the Obama administration’s concern about the heightened risk to American diplomats abroad, particularly in Libya where memories of the deadly 2012 attack on the U.S. mission in the eastern city of Benghazi are still vivid and the political uproar over it remain fresh ahead of a new congressional investigation into the incident…

The fighting has been particularly intense at the city’s airport where militias are fighting for control. Residents near the airport have been forced to evacuate their homes after they were hit by shells. On Friday, the official Libyan news agency LANA reported that explosions were heard early in the day near the airport area and continued into the afternoon…

The evacuation was accompanied by the release of a new State Department travel warning for Libya urging Americans not to go to the country and recommending that those already there leave immediately. “The Libyan government has not been able to adequately build its military and police forces and improve security,” it said. “Many military-grade weapons remain in the hands of private individuals, including antiaircraft weapons that may be used against civilian aviation.”

The move marks the second time in a little more than three years that Washington has closed its embassy in Libya. In Feb. 2011, the embassy suspended operations amid the uprising that eventually toppled longtime leader Muammar Qaddafi. After the formation of a transitional government in July, 2011, the embassy reopened in September. Qaddafi was killed in October of 2011…

The battle in Tripoli began earlier this month when Islamist-led militias — mostly from the western city of Misrata — launched a surprise assault on the airport, under control of rival militias from the western mountain town of Zintan….

The rival militias, made up largely of former anti-Qaddafi rebels, have forced a week-long closure of gas stations and government offices. http://www.foxnews.com/world/2014/07/26/us-evacuates-embassy-in-libya-amid-clashes-in-tripoli/

July 26, 2014

The U.S. State Department was forced to suspend operations at its embassy in Libya because of “freewheeling militia violence” there, Secretary of State John Kerry said today.

Kerry, who spoke to reporters before a meeting with the Turkish and Qatari foreign ministers about Gaza, made the comments after the State Department announced it evacuated its staff in Tripoli.

He blamed the “freewheeling militia violence,” caused by jihadist groups which have only grown in power since the ouster of former president Muammar Gaddafi, for creating an environment in which the diplomatic activities at the Libya embassy had to be suspended.

“A lot of the violence is around our embassy but not on the embassy, but nevertheless it presents a very real risk to our personnel,” Kerry said. http://abcnews.go.com/International/freewheeling-violence-forced-us-evacuate-embassy-libya-kerry/story?id=24725387

The situation in Libya is one that the USA helped create as the Obama Administration bombed Libya a few of years ago as part of its efforts to overthrow the ‘elected’ government of Muammar al-Gaddafi back in 2011 and support a group with ties to the Muslim Brotherhood.

Notice also something reported in the news related to Syria:

July 26, 2014

More and more Syrian rebels are defecting to join the ultra-hardline Islamic State insurgency, said UN human rights investigators yesterday, in what they described as a “Syrian-isation” of the al-Qaeda offshoot.

Members of the independent Commission of Inquiry on Syria, set up by the UN Human Rights Council in September 2011, informally briefed the United Nations Security Council yesterday ahead of submitting their latest report next week.

Brazilian chief investigator Paulo Pinheiro said the Islamic State – formerly known as the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, ISIL or Isis – was undergoing a “Syrian-isation.”

“What began with a lot of foreign fighters, now you have authentic Syrian citizens,” Mr Pinheiro told reporters. “We are seeing more Syrians coming to Isis than before.”

He said there was an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 foreign fighters with various groups battling Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s troops.  https://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/middle-east/increasing-number-of-syrians-joining-islamic-state-says-un-inquiry-1.1879514

July 26, 2014

At least 85 Syrian army troops were killed as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant advanced on a regime position in the northern province of Raqa, a monitoring group said Saturday. http://gulfnews.com/news/region/syria/85-syrian-troops-killed-by-islamist-militants-1.1364135

One report I read stated that because ISIS is having military success, more and more wish to support it in Syria as it opposes Syrian President Assad.  The Obama Administration is spending $500 million more to oppose Syria’s Assad this year, while it is trying to support Iraq’s Malaki who is fighting ISIS, while ISIS is also fighting the Assad regime.  Some of the money to oppose Assad may end up with supporters of ISIL/ISIS (which has renamed itself the Islamic State). This has put the USA in a difficult situation at best.

The USA should expect terrorism and other problems (see also Iraq, the King of the South, Armageddon, and Prophecy).

The situation in the Middle East and North Africa is volatile.

The Bible tells, in several places, such as Daniel 11:40-43, Psalm 83:2-8, and Ezekiel 30:2-8 of one or more confederations involving the Arabic peoples.

All the wars and fighting in the Arabic regions will ultimately result in a leader rising up that the Bible refers to as the final King of the South.  And that will not end well for those who truly support his end time confederation per Daniel 11:40-43.  Yet, it likely will take even more war, as well as at least one peace treaty (cf. Daniel 9:27), for that leader to rise up.

Jesus told His followers to watch, related to prophetic events, in Mark 13.

Watch the Middle East.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Prophesied ‘Islamic’ Confederation Where is an Islamic caliphate prophesied? Will one happen? Should you be concerned about it? Here is a link to a related video video: Will an Arabic Calphiphate Destroy the West?
Iraq, the King of the South, Armageddon, and Prophecy What will happen to Iraq? Is it the prophesied Mystery Babylon? What is Armageddon and how does that have to do with Iraq? Here is a related video Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy.
Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar Assad hold power as he has it? Does the Bible show that Damascus, the capital of Syria, will be destroyed? What will happen to Syria? Will the Syrians support the final King of the South that the Bible tells will rise up? Which scriptures discuss the rise and fall of an Arabic confederation? Does Islamic prophecy predict the destruction of Syria. This is a YouTube video.
The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27 This prophecy could give up to 3 1/2 years advance notice of the coming Great Tribulation. Will most ignore or misunderstand its fulfillment? Here is a link to a related sermon video Daniel 9:27 and the Start of the Great Tribulation.
Iran in Prophecy Is Iran in Bible prophecy? If so, what does the Bible teach? What names, other than Persia, may be used to describe Iran? There is also a YouTube video titled Iran in Prophecy. Here is a related video Iran In Prophecy.
Is the Future King of the South Rising Up? Some no longer believe there needs to be a future King of the South. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi or Caliph? What does the Bible say? A YouTube video of related interest may be: The Future King of the South is Rising. The Muslim Brotherhood and the Rise of the King of the South The Bible tells of the formation of a power of nations that are in the Middle East and North Africa that are part of the final “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40-43) The Muslim Brotherhood wishes to have an Islamic empire with basically the same nations. This YouTube video explains what to expect from such a confederation.
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims? An item of possibly related interest in the Spanish language would be: Líderes iraníes condenan la hipocresía de Occidente y declaran que ahora es tiempo para prepararse para el Armagedón, la guerra, y el Imán Mahdi.between these groups will put them in position to be part of the final end time Babylon that the Bible warns against as well as require improper compromise.
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 sermon video: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives.
World War III: Steps in Progress Are there surprising actions going on now that are leading to WWIII? Might a nuclear attack be expected? Does the Bible promise protection to all or only some Christians? How can you be part of those that will be protected? A related video would be Is World War III About to Begin? Can You Escape?
Wars, rumors of wars, and the Apocalypse Jesus foretold a time before the end where there would be wars and rumors of wars. The Apocalypse (the Book of Revelation) warns of the red horseman of war. Now, even secular writers, like Larry Edelson, are worried that wars and rumors of war are the most menacing problem that now haunts the earth? Are they right? What is the solution? This is a sermonette-length video.
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? 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.
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-Saxon 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. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.
Prophecy Obama: Prophecies of Barack Obama? Reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. This article includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist?  Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests?  Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies. Watch also the YouTube Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.

10th Century Representation of Gospel Writer Luke

COGwriter

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

This is the fifth of a multi-part sermon series by Dr. Thiel covering the Gospel account credited to Luke. This sermon covers chapters 12 through 13. Dr.Thiel discusses hypocritical religious leader, that souls can die, standing for Jesus, persecution, the parable of ‘the rich fool,’ Christian priorities, the ‘little flock,’ treasure, being ready, watching prophecy, explains that to whom much is given much is required, Jesus’ plan was divisive not ecumenical, discerning the signs of the time, that God has some patience for those who have not born fruit yet, Sabbath hypocrisy, parable of the mustard seed, the kingdom of God, the narrow way, and those unwilling to listen.

Here is a link to part one of this sermon series: Luke 1-2: John the Baptist, Mary, and the Census.

Here is a link to part two of this sermon series: Luke 3-6: John the Baptist, Jesus’ genealogy, Satan’s Influence, and the Sermon on the Mount.

Here is a link to part three of this sermon series: Luke 7-9: Miracles, Purpose of Parables, Kingdom of God, and Women Supporting the Ministry.

Here is a link to part four of this sermon series: Luke 10-11: The 70, Doing the Work, the Good Samaritan, Prayer, and Signs.

Here is a link to part five of this sermon series: Luke 12-13: Priorities, Delayed Fruit Bearing, Little Flock, Prophecy, and the Narrow Way

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

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 is the Unpardonable Sin? What is it? Can you repent of it? Do you know what it is and how to avoid it? Here is a link to a related sermon video The Unpardonable Sin and the Prodigal Son.
Parable of the Mustard Seed Jesus told many parables. Why? What might this one mean?
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? A version of the main article was also translated in the Spanish language: Oferta universal de salvación: Hay cientos de versículos en la Biblia que apoyan la verdadera doctrina de la Apocatastasis.
How To Determine If Someone is a True Prophet of God There are many false prophets. How can Christians determine who is a true prophet? There is also a sermon-length video titled How to determine if someone is a true prophet of God. Here is a related link in Spanish/español: ¿Cómo determinar si alguien es un verdadero profeta de Dios?
ContinuingCOG channel. Dr. Thiel has produced scores of YouTube video sermons for this channel. Note: Since these are sermon-length, they can take a little longer to load than other YouTube videos.