Church of God News

Official portrait of US President Donald Trump

COGwriter

Donald Trump continues to be popular among white US evangelicals:

March 25, 2019

Evangelicals are among Trump’s most ardent supporters. They are willing to ignore his sins and blasphemy as long as he takes the country back.

And if you think that the Democrats are any better, think again: Their current front-runner for the 2020 presidential bid is Joe Biden, a 76-year old has-been. https://www.salon.com/2019/03/25/us-and-uk-the-end-of-progress_partner/

More than two years into the presidency of Donald Trump, U.S. white evangelical Protestants continue to overwhelmingly support him, a new analysis of Pew Research Center survey data shows. …

George Yancey wrote an op-ed column in CP on March 7 saying, “…I must admit that I fail to fully comprehend why there is continual evangelical support of Trump,” noting that he finds the pattern vexing.

Yancey said, “Evangelicals have been his biggest supporters in his policies and seem to be the most loyal to him. They have ignored his immoralities and shortcomings in ways they clearly would not have done for Democrats. It is a blind loyalty that he is unworthy to receive.”

The Pew analysis found that around seven-in-ten white evangelical Protestants, or 69 percent of them, say they approve of the way Trump is handling his job as president, the Center’s latest polling found in January 2019. …

Around half of white Catholics have approved of Trump in these surveys, including 44percent in January.

Religiously unaffiliated Americans consistently express among the lowest levels of approval of Trump’s performance.

These range from 17 percent to 27 percent across the polls the Center has conducted since the president assumed office.

Most black Protestants and nonwhite Catholics also have disapproved of the way the president handles his job. 03/24/19 https://www.ecumenicalnews.com/article/debate-rages-as-pew-finds-evangelical-support-for-trump-remains-high-with-other-christian-groups-less-sympathetic/60661.htm

Various ones, including many evangelicals, consider the move of the US Embassy to Jerusalem as prophetic. Some consider him an end time ‘Cyrus the Great.’ Some even have called him ‘the trump of God’ (see Donald Trump reportedly a ‘Cyrus’ preparing the way for a new Jewish temple).

Because of Donald Trump’s decision related to Jerusalem, some think this will make it easier for a ‘Third Temple’ to be built there. Last week Donald Trump supported Israel’s claims on the Golan Heights (see Syria condemns Donald Trump’s Golan Heights position as ‘irresponsible.’ Is destruction there prophesied during the Day of the Lord?).

Notice something related to that:

Coincidence or Divine Payback: Trump Exonerated In Mueller Investigation Days After Recognizing Israeli Golan

It is interesting to note that after two years of investigation, it was announced on Friday afternoon that the … report of special counsel Robert Mueller will not include any indictments concerning collusion between the Trump campaign and Russian interference in the presidential election. …

Rabbi Hillel Weiss, the spokesman for the Sanhedrin, stated that there was clearly a cause-and-effect relationship between the results of the Mueller investigation and Trump’s support of Israel and recognition of the Golan.

“The borders of Israel are written in the Bible as is the requirement of all nations to establish courts of justice,” Rabbi Weiss said to Breaking Israel News. “By supporting one, the other also grows in strength. A leader that rejects the Biblical boundaries of Israel will surely suffer from evil justice. This is not a threat. It is simply a natural outcome of rejecting the Bible.” …

Rabbi Ken Spiro, a historian and Senior Lecturer and Researcher for Aish HaTorah Yeshiva, noted that having Israel as an ally did seem to be a successful political tactic for the U.S. President.

“America and Israel have the strongest possible relationship right now thanks to President Trump,” Rabbi Spiro told Breaking Israel News. “Even though he is not a particularly religious man, he is connecting the American Evangelicals to Israel. Evangelicals overwhelmingly support Israel because they see prophecy coming true and they realize that God is going to judge them on how they treat us.” 03/24/19 https://www.breakingisraelnews.com/125125/coincidence-or-divine-payback-trump-exonerated-in-mueller-investigation-days-after-recognizing-israeli-golan/

The Mueller probe has finally ended, though this will not be the end of investigations into Donald Trump. And no, I do not believe that the conclusions of the Mueller probe are related to Donald Trump’s Golan Heights declaration.

Anyway, over the weekend, I saw one evangelical reporter essentially get US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to agree that Donald Trump was some type of an end time Esther of the Bible. Here is a related report on that:

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says it’s “possible” that President Donald Trump is like Queen Esther, who saved Jews in the Old Testament.

Pompeo made the statement in an interview with a Christian broadcast outlet this week on a trip to the Middle East.

The interviewer asked if Trump is “like Queen Esther,” who interceded with her husband to save Jews in what was then Persia and is now Iran. Trump has backed new sanctions on Iran aimed at reducing its ability to threaten Israel.

Pompeo said in response that “As a Christian, I certainly believe that’s possible.” 03/22/19 https://www.haaretz.com/us-news/trump-is-like-biblical-queen-esther-who-saved-jews-in-persia-says-pompeo-1.7045350

Mike Pompeo is affiliated with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.

Many evangelicals believe that Donald Trump is ushering in the end times (see Evangelicals support Donald Trump’s Jerusalem policies more than Jews and/or watch Evangelical support for Donald Trump’s Jerusalem policy).

Although we in the Continuing Church of God are NOT Protestant, hence not evangelicals, regular readers of this COGwriter Church of God News page are aware that I have written for years that Donald Trump was ‘apocalyptic’ (watch also Donald: ‘Trump of God’ or Apocalyptic? and/or read my book Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse).

Were Donald Trump’s Jerusalem and Golan Heights declarations at all prophetic?

Yes.

Partially because of his decisions, in time, events will happen in Jerusalem that will one day result in animal sacrifices being resumed.

Bible prophecy shows that those sacrifices will be stopped by the King of the North (Daniel 9:27b, 11:31) who will align with the final Antichrist.

Until then, there will be conflict and even temporal peace in the Israel/Palestinian region.

For now, US President Donald Trump believes he has increased reasons for evangelical Protestants to vote for him as he runs for re-election in 2020.

Donald Trump continues to be apocalyptic.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Evangelical support for Donald Trump’s Jerusalem policy BBC asked, “Why do US evangelicals support Trump’s Jerusalem policy?” BBC provided quotes from some believing it has to do with the ‘last days’ while others saying that is not the reason. Hal Lindsey’s book, ‘The Late Great Planet Earth’ is one of the sources pointed to. In this video, Dr. Thiel addresses scriptures related to Jerusalem as well as prophetic ones. He goes over the common ‘fig tree’ interpretation, belief about a ‘Third Temple,’ and statements about animal sacrifices. He explains biblical statements on those subjects as well as the views of certain modern Jewish organizations. This is a video.
Jerusalem, Donald Trump, and Prophecy On December 6, 2017, US President Donald Trump fulfilled a campaign promise related to the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. This brought anger, protests, and rockets from some Palestinians. It also brought condemnation from European allies–it has been claimed to be disruptive and even catastrophic. The Palestinian President (Mahmoud Abbas) said that this pronouncement eliminated the USA as being a fair mediator for a peace deal. Others have claimed that Donald Trump is an end time Cyrus and his pronouncement will lead to a Third Temple in Jerusalem. Is there ever going to be a peace deal? If so, will Europeans be part of it? Is Donald Trump a ‘Cyrus.’ Do the Jews require a Third Temple for sacrifices? Dr. Thiel answer those questions and more in this video.
Why is a Jewish Temple in Jerusalem Not Required? Although people like Timothy LaHaye teach a third Jewish temple is required, who is ‘the temple of God” in the New Testament? Does the Bible require a rebuilt Jewish Temple? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Por qué no se requiere un templo judío en Jerusalén? Here is a link to a sermon titled The Temple, Prophecy, and the Work.
Hope of Salvation: How the Continuing Church of God differs from most Protestants How the real Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background. As far as some changes affecting Protestantism, watch the video Charismatic Kenneth Copeland and Anglican Tony Palmer: Protestants Beware! [Português: Esperança do salvação: Como a igreja do deus difere da maioria de protestantes]. A sermon is also available: How Does the Church of God Differ from Protestantism?
Beware: Protestants Going Towards Ecumenical Destruction! What is going on in the Protestant world? Are Protestants turning back to their ‘mother church’ in Rome? Does the Bible warn about this? What are Catholic plans and prophecies related to this? Is Protestantism doomed? See also World Council of Churches Peace Plan.
Gaza and the Palestinians in Bible Prophecy What does the Bible teach about Gaza and the fate of the Palestinians? Here is a link to a related video: Gaza and Palestine in Prophecy.
Some Doctrines of Antichrist Are there any doctrines taught outside the Churches of God which can be considered as doctrines of antichrist? This article suggests at least three. It also provides information on 666 and the identity of “the false prophet.” Plus it shows that several Catholic writers seem to warn about an ecumenical antipope that will support heresy. You can also watch a video titled What Does the Bible teach about the Antichrist?
Does the Church of God need to be headquartered in Jerusalem? Some say so. But what does the Bible teach? A related short video is also available: Does the Bible endorse Jerusalem as the Church of God headquarters now?
The Red Heifer, Jewish Beliefs, and the End of the World The Temple Institute is watching a ‘red heifer.’ Why might this be important in the sequence of end time events? Here is a related link in the Spanish language Novilla roja descubierta en EE.UU. e Instituto del Templo está interesado en ella. Here are links to two related videos in English: Red Heifers and the Fate of the World and The Red Heifer and the End of the World.
Church of God on Jerusalem’s Western Hill Could this building, often referred to as the Cenacle, which is located on a Mount Zion, possibly have been the oldest actual Christian church building?
Does the ‘Cenacle’ deal have prophetic ramifications? After a 20 year negotiation, the Church of Rome has negotiated the right to have Catholic mass in the building known as the Cenacle. It is in the area where the Church of God on Jerusalem’s Western Hill once stood. This is believed to be the location of the earliest Christian church building. How does the Bible define the ‘temple of God’ in the New Testament? Could this be the area where the ‘man of sin’ will sit in the “temple of God’ that Bible prophecy discusses in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4? This is a YouTube video.
Gaza and the Palestinians in Bible Prophecy What does the Bible teach about Gaza and the fate of the Palestinians? Here is a link to a related video: Gaza and Palestine in Prophecy.
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? A related video is also available: What Should You Know About Turkey in Prophecy.
The Times of the Gentiles Has there been more than one time of the Gentiles? Are we in it now or in the time of Anglo-America? What will the final time of the Gentiles be like? A related sermon is available and is titled: The Times of the Gentiles.
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? Two related videos include UN’s ‘New Universal Agenda’ is a False Gospel! and United Nations and Vatican Are Planning the New World Order.
USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses Can you point to scriptures, like Daniel 11:39, that point to the USA in the 21st century? This article does. A related sermon is titled: Do these 7 prophesies point to the end of the USA?
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no Final End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West? Here is a version in the Spanish language: ¿Quién es el Rey del Occidente? ¿Por qué no hay un Rey del Occidente en la profecía del tiempo del fin? A related sermon is also available: The Bible, the USA, and the King of the West.
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? 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.
Nazarene Christianity: Were the Original Christians Nazarenes? Who were the Nazarene Christians? What did they believe? Should 21st century Christians be modern Nazarenes? Is there a group that exists now that traces its history through the Nazarenes and holds the same beliefs today? Here is a link to a related video sermon Nazarene Christians: Were the early Christians “Nazarenes”?
Does the Church of God need to be headquartered in Jerusalem? Some say so. But what does the Bible teach?
Location of the Early Church: Another Look at Ephesus, Smyrna, and Rome What actually happened to the primitive Church? And did the Bible tell about this in advance?
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.
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.
Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism? Was the millennium (sometimes called chiliasm) taught by early Christians? Who condemned it? Will Jesus literally reign for 1000 years on the earth? Is this time near? Two related sermons are available Millennial Utopia and The Millennium.
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2027 or 20xx? There is also a video titled 6000 Years: When will God’s Kingdom Come? Here is a link to the article in Spanish: ¿Tiene Dios un plan de 6,000 años?
Who is the Man of Sin of 2 Thessalonians 2? Is this the King of the North, the ten-horned beast of Revelation 13:1-11, or the two-horned Beast of Revelation 13:12-16? Some rely on traditions, but what does the Bible teach? Here is a related link in Spanish/español: ¿Quién es el Hombre de Pecado de 2 Tesalonicenses 2? Here is a version in Mandarin: N;ÿ Œ
f/’Y’jNº’ÿ Here is a link to a related English sermon video titled: The Man of Sin will deceive most ‘Christians’.
Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God.
Why Should American Catholics Fear Unity with the Orthodox? (And the Protestants) 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?
Will the Interfaith Movement Lead to Peace or Sudden Destruction? Is the interfaith movement going to lead to lasting peace or is it warned against? A video sermon of related interest is: Will the Interfaith Movement lead to World War III? and a video sermon is also available: Do You Know That Babylon is Forming?
Donald Trump in Prophecy Prophecy, Donald Trump? Are there prophecies that Donald Trump may fulfill?  Are there any prophecies that he has already helped fulfill?  Is a Donald Trump presidency proving to be apocalyptic?  Two related videos are available: Donald: ‘Trump of God’ or Apocalyptic? and Donald Trump’s Prophetic Presidency.
Trump Presidency Magic 8 Ball or Bible Prophecy? BBC reported that one might as well use a ‘Magic Eight-Ball’ to try to predict what will happen in the remaining time of Donald Trump’s presidency. What is a ‘Magic Eight-Ball’? Dr. Thiel not only explains that, but also briefly goes over 10 biblically-based warnings he wrote would happen if Donald Trump were elected that have already began to come to pass. He also goes over something he wrote back in 2008 that the Trump presidency is also helping lead to fulfillment. Should you trust Bible prophecy or not? Dr. Thiel says that Bible prophecy can be trusted, despite the view of skeptics and others that either overlook or despise the Bible. This is a video.
Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse This 188 page book is for people truly interested in prophecies related to Donald Trump and the United States, including learning about several that have already been fulfilled and those that will be fulfilled in the future. The physical book can be purchased at Amazon for $12.99 from the following link: Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse.
Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse-Kindle Edition This electronic version of the 188 page print edition is available for only US$3.99. 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 Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse-Kindle Edition.

Older Hebrew Calendar

COGwriter

When speaking of the Hebrew month of Abib/Nisan, which occurs around late March/early April God declared:

“This month shall be your beginning of months; it shall be the first month of the year to you” (Exodus 12:2).

After sunset on April 5th, 2019, the new month and year begins. Passover will be after sunset on April 18th in 2019.

Each year, some bring up calendar concerns. Some believe that a calculated Holy Day calendar is wrong and that one must only be kept based upon personal observation. Those espousing the observed calendar often differ among themselves as to how it is to be observed.

The debate is often centered around a Jewish leader called Hillel II. He is credited for publishing the rules that the Jews use for calculating the calendar based on certain observations. Basically, the observed only crowd claims that since Hillel was not around until the 4th century, that prior to him, the Jews always used a calendar based upon observation of the first crescent moon and did not include something called ‘postponements.’

This argument presumes, however, that Hillel II invented the calendar rules he made public. Since the calendar determining methods were guarded by the priests, we do not know that for a fact. Furthermore, some believe that this public action was necessary, because the ‘judicial body’ then known as the Sanhedrin, was a fading institution at the time, hence there was a need for public disclosure of the rules.

The calculated crowd basically says that not all Jews used an observed only calendar and the Bible seemingly gave the Jews (Leviticus 23:2 and possibly the Church per Colossians 2:16-17, literal translation) some latitude in determination of the actual start date. Some believe that postponements were in place and probably used by some prior to the time of Jesus.

Back in Jesus’ time, communications were not instantaneous. Yet, somehow Jews around the Roman Empire knew when the Day of Pentecost was as the Bible shows that they were in Jerusalem observing it on the correct day:

1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. 6 And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. 7 Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? 9 Parthians and Medes and Elamites, those dwelling in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretans and Arabs — we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.” (Acts 2:1-11)

The above is scriptural support for the idea that the calculated calendar was in place because the Jews who came for Pentecost obviously would have to have known when it was some time prior to its occurrence. Travel was much slower then and for a message to get from Jerusalem to Rome, and then for people to get back to Rome, would have taken a long time. It would not seem possible that those who visited Jerusalem from places as far away as Rome could have known when to be there, UNLESS a calculated calendar was used. While the Roman visitors coincidentally could have been there, since Pentecost was one of the listed Holy Days to appear before God with an offering (Deuteronomy 16:16), it is likely that they knew (in advance) when it was.

It should be realized that for centuries after Jesus was resurrected, Christians who kept the Holy Days had to use some method to determine their date, and since most were NOT near Jerusalem after 69 A.D., the use of a calculated calendar (which they likely knew from the Jews) was the only practical way for them to know when the Holy Days were.

Now because some rules related to the calendar were not made public prior to Hillel II (some others had been related to years with an ‘intercalated’ month), we do not know the date when they were first implemented–though some believe they existed from the time of Moses and were shown to be utilized by Ezra. It would seem logical to conclude that they were begun during the period when sacrificing was being done. One of the possible reasons I have read about for implementing them was in consideration of back-to-back High Days (before or after a weekly Sabbath) and the laborious offering rituals needed. It would not seem that postponements would have been implemented long after the Temple was destroyed with related sacrificing also ceasing by 70 A.D. If sacrifices played a role in using the postponement, then Hillel II could not have been the one to originate postponements.

According to Jewish sources. the placement of the Day of Atonement seems to be a major factor in the use of postponements. Notice the following from the Encyclopaedia Judaica:

CALENDAR (Heb. לוּחַ, lu’aḥ). The present Jewish calendar is lunisolar, the months being reckoned according to the moon and the years according to the sun. A month is the period of time between one conjunction of the moon with the sun and the next. The conjunction of the moon with the sun is the point in time at which the moon is directly between the earth and the sun (but not on the same plane) and is thus invisible. This is known as the מוֹלָד, molad (“birth,” from the root ילד). The mean synodic month (or lunation) is 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes, and 3⅓ seconds (793 parts (ḥalakim); in the Jewish system the hour is divided into 1,080 parts each of which is 3⅓ seconds). The solar year is 365 days, 48 minutes, and 46 seconds, which means that a solar year exceeds a lunar one (12 months) by about 11 days. The cycles of 12 lunar months must therefore be adjusted to the solar year, because although the Jewish festivals are fixed according to dates in months, they must also be in specific (agricultural) seasons of the year which depend on the tropical solar year. Without any adjustment the festivals would “wander” through the seasons and the “spring” festival (Passover), for example, would be celebrated eventually in winter, and later in summer. The required adjustment is realized by the addition of an extra month (Adar II) in each of seven out of the 19 years that constitute the small (or lunar) cycle of the moon (maḥazor katan or maḥazor ha-levanah). …

The year begins on Tishri 1, which is rarely the day of the molad, as there are four obstacles or considerations, called deḥiyyot, in fixing the first day of the month (rosh ḥodesh). Each deḥiyyah defers Rosh Ha-Shanah by a day, and combined deḥiyyot may cause a postponement of two days: (1) mainly in order to prevent the Day of Atonement (Tishri 10) from falling on Friday or Sunday, and Hoshana Rabba (the seventh day of Sukkot; Tishri 21) from falling on Saturday, but in part also serving an astronomical purpose (see below). Rosh Ha-Shanah never falls on Sunday, Wednesday, or Friday (according to the mnemonic לא אד”ו ראש known as the postponement addu – probably first vocalized iddo; cf. Ezra 8:17). (2) Entirely for an astronomical reason, if the molad is at noon or later (מוֹלָד זָקֵן or מוֹלָד יח) Rosh Ha-Shanah is delayed by one day or, if this would cause it to fall as above, two days. These two deḥiyyot, owing to the mentioned limits on the number of days in the year, entail another two. (3) The third deḥiyyah is as follows: If the molad in an “ordinary” (not leap) year falls at ג”טר”ד, that is the third day (Tuesday), at 9 hours, 204 ḥalakim, that is, 3:11 A.M. and 20 secs. – Rosh Ha-Shanah is put off two days. A postponement to Wednesday is not permitted (as in (1)), so that it is deferred to Thursday. The object is as follows: If the molad of Tishri occurs at that hour, the outcome would be a year which is one day too long…. (4) This deḥiyyah is very infrequent. It is known as בט”ו תקפ”ט אחר עבור שנה, that is when the molad of Tishri, following immediately after a leap year, occurs on the second day (Monday) at 15 hours, 589 ḥalakim, which means Monday, 9:32 A.M. and 43⅓ secs. …

While it is not unreasonable to attribute to Hillel II the fixing of the regular order of intercalations, his full share in the present fixed calendar is doubtful. … Intercalation is claimed to be evident from the figures in Ezekiel 1:1, 3:15, 4:4–6 and 8:1, with similar indications in I Kings 12:32–3 and II Chronicles 30:2–3; … The New Moon (Num. 28:11, and parallels) was determined by the phasis in the preceding evening, hence the plausibility of an early biblical record (I Sam 20:18) of its prediction for “tomorrow.”

(Calendar. Encyclopaedia Judaica. Ed. Michael Berenbaum and Fred Skolnik. Vol. 4. 2nd ed. Detroit: Macmillan Reference USA, 2007. p354-359. COPYRIGHT 2007 Keter Publishing House Ltd. http://go.galegroup.com/ps/retrieve.do?sgHitCountType=None&inPS=true&prodId=GVRL&userGroupName=imcpl1111&resultListType=RELATED_DOCUMENT&contentSegment=9780028660974&isBOBIndex=true&docId=GALE|CX2587503848#354 viewed 02/28/15)

It is true that Hillel II did not come up with all the calendar calculation rules. Again, it is more likely he mainly laid them out publicly.

Psalm 81:1-5 discusses new moons, and may be a reason that the Jews believe the calculation for the new year should be based on Tishri 1. Though the sacred year, according to the Bible (Exodus 12:1-2), begins on Nisan 1, the date of that calculation seems to be based on the Tishri calculation. The fact that the Encyclopaedia Judaica ties an aspect of the calendar with Ezra 8:17 is consistent with the view that the postponements were being utilized at the time of Ezra.

Furthermore consider that Jesus kept Passover on the 14th of Nisan (also known as the month of Abib) on the Hebrew calendar after sunset on the day we now call Tuesday (see What Happened in the ‘Crucifixion Week’?). He died the next day, which is the day we commonly call Wednesday. The late Dr. Herman Hoeh taught this occurred in 31 A.D. (though 30 A.D. might be possible–as far as 30 A.D. goes, I have seen something from one supporter of that view that claimed that the Feast of Trumpets prior to it was calculated based upon a postponement).

Now, if we can have records of when the new moon was for 31 A.D., we can calculate when Passover would have been. And that information exists.

There is New Moon Data from the US Navy Observatory using the current Julian calendar and Greenwich Mean Time for the new moon in 31 A.D.:

31 ...  April 10    Noon  (http://www.usno.navy.mil/USNO/astronomical-applications/data-services/spring-phenom viewed 02/25/15)

Since Jerusalem is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, then the conjunction, which effectively is the start of the actual New Moon, would have occurred at 2:00 pm on what we now call April 10th on the day of the week commonly called Tuesday (the same US Navy link states that March 27th was on a Tuesday, and from that we can calculate the days of the week for April of 31 A.D.).

If the first part or crescent of the moon could have been seen close to the time the US Navy said the conjunction for the new moon occurred, the 14th of Nisan would have begun after sunset on Sunday the 22nd of April. Yet, it would not have been seen.

Furthermore, the human eye normally cannot see the moon in the middle of the afternoon and there are delays until enough of the moon can be seen. So it would seem that the first observable crescent should have been the next day. Thus, the first day of the month would have likely been Wednesday, April 11th, based upon a strictly observable calendar. This would have made Passover after sunset Monday, April 23rd.

Presuming Jesus was killed in 31 A.D., this eliminates the strictly observable calendar (for details on why that makes sense, check out the article The KEY To The Crucifixion Date). The beginning of the month that year would have been ‘postponed’ one day, based upon a calculated calendar. Since Jesus kept His last Passover on a Tuesday evening after sunset, this leads to the logical conclusion that Jesus kept the Passover based upon a calculated calendar (again presuming a 31 A.D. final Passover for Him). Jesus would have kept Passover after sunset on April 24th and died prior to sunset on April 25th.

And if Jesus kept the Holy Days based upon a calculated calendar, then it is reasonable to conclude that a calculated calendar existed centuries before Hillel wrote a record of it down.

Notice also the following from the late Dr. Herman Hoeh:

The Hebrew calendar tells when

Here is a chart verified by works on the “Jewish calendar” — actually God’s sacred calendar — absolutely correct according to the computation preserved since the days of Moses!Dates Passover
A.D. 29 Saturday, April 16
A.D. 30 Wednesday, April 5
A.D. 31 Wednesday, April 25
A.D. 32 Monday, April 14
A.D. 33 Friday, April 3

To place the Passover on a Friday in A.D. 30 is to violate one of the rules of the fixed calendar — that no common year of the sacred calendar may have 356 days. Common years of 12 months may be only 353, 354 or 355 days long, a fact you can verify in the Jewish Encyclopedia.

Theologians place the Passover of A.D. 30 on Friday, April 7, 356 days after the Passover of A.D. 29. Count it for yourself! This date is two days late. The Passover in A.D. 30 was only 354 days after that of A.D. 29.

The 14th of the month Nisan could have occurred on Wednesday in A.D. 30, as well as in A.D. 31. Thus, if you want to believe that the crucifixion was in A.D. 30 — which it was not — you would still have to admit that Friday could not be the day of the crucifixion!

For the year A.D. 31 a few references, unacquainted with the rules of the Hebrew calendar, mistakenly give the Passover, Nisan 14, as Monday, March 26. But this is one month too early. The year A.D. 30-31 was intercalary — that is, it had 13 months — thus placing the Passover 30 days later in A.D. 31, and on a Wednesday. (Hoeh H. The Crucifixion Was Not on Friday, Part Two. Good News magazine, March 1984)

Since Jesus kept Passover on Tuesday night (the day starts the evening prior on the Hebrew calendar, hence a Wednesday calendar date means a Tuesday evening obvserance, since Passover is observed in the evening) and died Wednesday afternoon, it appears that He was keeping a calculated calendar with postponements.

Understand that many of the children of Israel were dispersed from Jerusalem for centuries. This of course separated them from accurate Jerusalem observations. Since all wanted to keep the right day, a calculated calendar was a logical solution to this (though odd solutions, such as observing the holy days for two days, were used by many, as some do today).

On sufficiently cloudy evenings/nights, it is not possible to observe the first appearance of the new moon through observation. Thousands of years ago, they would not have had a way to observe the start of the new moon every month.

1. Modern communication methods did not exist thousands of years ago.
2. Jesus endorsed the basic Jewish calendar (cf. Matthew 23:1-3).
3. Jesus, who did not sin (Hebrews 4:15), seemingly observed a calculated calendar (cf. Luke 22:8-22, etc.).
4. Throughout history God’s people not near Jerusalem basically had to rely on some type of a calculated calendar.
5. Weather and other factors made a strictly observational calendar impossible for use every month.
6. A strictly observational calendar results in people keeping Holy Days sometimes weeks differently, depending upon where they are physically located.
7. God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33).

There is more information that could be provided on each of the above points, but even though I plan to research more on this in the future, I thought this information could be helpful for some as we get closer to the start of the Spring Holy Day season for 2018.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by the Tkach WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.
What are Postponements? This was written by the late evangelist Raymond McNair and explains a lot about postponements and calculations.
Calculated or observed calendar? Did Jesus use a calculated calendar? This article addresses this issue that many wonder about.
Is January 1st a Date for Christians Celebrate? Historical and biblical answers to this question about the world’s New Year’s day. A video of related interest is also available: God’s or Satan’s New Year?
Hebrew Calendar and “Postponements” This late John Ogywn writing explains why the most faithful in the Church of God use the calendar that we do and answers such questions as “Did Jesus Observe the Postponements?”
Holy Day Calendar This is a listing of the biblical holy days through 2024, with their Roman calendar dates. They are really hard to observe if you do not know when they occur 🙂 In the Spanish/Español/Castellano language: Calendario de los Días Santos. In Mandarin Chinese: 何日是神的圣日？ 这里是一份神的圣日日历从2013年至2024年。.
What Happened in the ‘Crucifixion Week’? How long are three days and three nights? Was Palm Sunday on a Saturday? Did Jesus die on “Good Friday”? Was the resurrection on Sunday? Do you really know? Who determined the date of Easter? (Here is a related link in Spanish/español: ¿Murió Jesús un día miércoles o un viernes?)
Passover and the Early Church Did the early Christians observe Passover? What did Jesus and Paul teach? Why did Jesus die for our sins?
Melito’s Homily on the Passover This is one of the earliest Christian writings about the Passover. This also includes what Apollinaris wrote on the Passover as well. Here is a related sermon, also titled Melito’s Homily on the Passover.
TPM: Passover on the 14th or 15th? While the real COG observes Passover on the 14th, some observe it on the 15th. Why is the 14th correct? A related sermon is titled Is Passover on the 14th or 15th for Christians?
The Night to Be Observed What is the night to be much observed? When is it? Why do Jews keep Passover twice and emphasize the wrong date? A related video is available and is titled The Night to Be Much Observed.
Should Christians Keep the Days of Unleavened Bread? Do they have any use or meaning now? What is leaven? This article supplies some biblical answers. Here is a YouTube video intended to be viewed for the first day of unleavened bread: Christians and the Days of Unleavened Bread.
Should You Observe God’s Holy Days or Demonic Holidays? This is a free pdf booklet explaining what the Bible and history teach about God’s Holy Days and popular holidays. A related sermon is Which Spring Days should Christians observe?
The History of Early Christianity Are you aware that what most people believe is not what truly happened to the true Christian church? Do you know where the early church was based? Do you know what were the doctrines of the early church? Is your faith really based upon the truth or compromise?
Where is the True Christian Church Today? This free online pdf booklet answers that question and includes 18 proofs, clues, and signs to identify the true vs. false Christian church. Plus 7 proofs, clues, and signs to help identify Laodicean churches. A related sermon is also available: Where is the True Christian Church? Here is a link to the booklet in the Spanish language: ¿Dónde está la verdadera Iglesia cristiana de hoy? Here is a link in the German language: WO IST DIE WAHRE CHRISTLICHE KIRCHE HEUTE? Here is a link in the French language: Où est la vraie Église Chrétienne aujourd’hui?
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 Acts 2 to the 21st century. Related sermon links include Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D. and Continuing History of the Church of God: 4th-16th Centuries and Continuing History of the Church of God: 17th-20th Centuries. The booklet is available in Spanish: Continuación de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios, German: Kontinuierliche Geschichte der Kirche Gottes, French: L Histoire Continue de l Église de Dieu and Ekegusii Omogano Bw’ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete.

Venezuelan man selling vegetables (Pixabay)

COGwriter

The situation in Venezuela has become untenable for many. Millions have left it for other countries.

But so many have done so, so quickly, that some feel that they are causing problems in other lands.

Someone sent me the following email, in Spanish, which I machine-translated into English (the original Spanish follows):

The streets of the big cities of Colombia are full of Venezuelans and Venezuelans asking for alms. At the corners of the great avenues, at the traffic lights, they stop to beg for alms, to clean the windows of the glass. At the departures of the department stores, they stop to sell candies or cookies, to earn a few pesos, and with them to buy some food. Many of them sleep in the street, in the cracks of houses or buildings, or get a piece in which twelve or fourteen people sleep together, crowded like worms on a leaf of a plant.

The people help you. I have personally helped some of them. Some boys, 19 or 20 years old, stopped to ask for alms or sell candy, when they left the stores where I bought the little I eat. One day they told me that they had stolen all the clothes, in the room in which they slept, because they lived with bad people, vicious people and street kids. I took pity on them and gave them a change of clothes. Then I told them to go to a better quality residence / hotel, not to continue living where they were, that I was going to help them.

Every day they came at night to ask for my help, which was very little, but with which they paid for the piece to which they had moved. Sometimes they asked me for food, and I went and took them to eat somewhere near my residence.

When some time had passed, and I already knew them, I suggested that they go to live in a country house that I have in a village in the mountains of Antioquia, Colombia. It is a humble property, but in it they could find a place to live. They would take care of the property and I, in exchange, could help them with the market and the food, and eventually, if they were dedicated to the work of the field and planted the land, I would use them as my workers.

They said yes, they were willing to go there. I set a date to take them there, twelve hours from Bogotá, where I currently reside. I bought them a cell phone, so they could communicate with me about any need, and I traveled with them to my little house in the country. I installed them in it, I gave them the key to the house, I bought them a market, I gave them the instructions of the case.

In an oversight of mine, they took my jacket, in which I had my two smartphone cell phones, and my wallet. They stole all the money I had in my wallet, and both phones, and they ran away.

They left me stranded and abandoned in that country house, which is half an hour from the nearest town, and twelve hours from Bogotá, where I work. With difficulty I could get communication with a former worker of mine, who lives in another town, three hours away, and asked him to rescue me. I told him everything. He met the boys because he was the one who took us there, to install them. I had to stay a whole week waiting to get money to be able to return to Bogotá, where I work.

This situation has already happened to many people in Colombia. They help these Venezuelans who are in the street, they feel sorry for them, and sadly the payment that is received from them is ingratitude, and things like the one that happened to me. It could have been worse, they would have done something more serious to me, they would have hurt me or killed me. At least they just stole me. With what they took from me I doubt very much that they have come far. Anyway, I did not see them again. I could not retrieve the cell phones and even the numbers of them, because they blocked them. Nobody knows where they went.

For this type of actions many people in Colombia are beginning to think that the national government should expel these refugees. Almost no one helps them, and because of such criminal behavior the Colombians are taking aversion and hatred, and no longer want to collaborate. For the ingratitude of a few will pay all. And every day more grows the number of these people, men and women, mostly young, who came to Colombia to escape the situation in Venezuela. There are many complaints, there are many complaints, there are already

Venezuelans committing crimes against property, stealing bicycles, robbing people in the streets, etc.

This is the sad situation that is occurring. One can be moved by what is happening and what he sees, these people, these young people sleeping in the street and carving garbage and living in the most abject misery. But on the other hand, one has the bad memory of the ingratitude of those whom one has tried to help, and they pay him in this way.

In truth, because of the behavior of some of these refugees, the attitude of Colombians towards them has begun to change, to the bad. People no longer want to help them, and the heart has hardened those who originally collaborated with them and tried to serve in some way.

This is, at this moment, the situation of the large and medium-sized cities of Colombia, full of these Venezuelan refugees whom almost nobody wants, because of the bad behavior of a few of them.

————————————————————————————-

Las calles de las grandes ciudades de Colombia están llenas de venezolanos y venezolanas pidiendo limosna. En las esquinas de las grandes avenidas, en los semáforos, se paran a pedir limosna, a limpiar las ventanas de los vidrios. En las salidas de los grandes almacenes, se paran a vender confites o galletas, para ganar unos cuantos pesos, y con ellos comprar algo de comida. Muchos de ellos duermen en la calle, en los quicios de las casas o edificios, o consiguen una pieza en la cual duermen doce o catorce personas juntas, hacinados como gusanos en una hoja de una planta.

La gente les ayuda. Yo personalmente le he ayudado a algunos de ellos. Unos muchachos, de 19 o 20 años de edad, se paraban a pedir limosna o a vender confites, a la salida de las tiendas en donde yo compro lo poco que consumo. Un día me dijeron que les habían robado toda la ropa, en la pieza en la cual dormían, porque convivían con gente mala, viciosos y gamines de la calle. Yo me compadecí de ellos y les di una muda de ropa. Después les dije que se pasaran para una  residencia/hotel de mejor calidad, que no siguieran viviendo en donde estaban, que yo les iba a ayudar.

Todos los días venían por la noche a pedirme la ayuda, que era poca en verdad, pero con la cual pagaban la pieza a la cual se habían trasladado. Algunas veces me pidieron comida, y yo fui y los llevé a comer a algún sitio cerca de mi residencia.

Cuando había transcurrido algún tiempo, y ya los conocía, les propuse que se fueran a vivir a una casita de campo que tengo en un pueblo en las montañas de Antioquia, Colombia. Es una propiedad humilde, pero en ella podrían encontrar un sitio para vivir. Me cuidarían la propiedad y yo, a cambio, les podría ayudar con el mercado y los vívieres, y eventualmente, si se dedicaban a las labores del campo y me sembraban la tierra, yo los iba a emplear como trabajadores míos.

Me dijeron que sí, que estaban dispuestos a irse para allá. Puse una fecha para llevarlos hasta allá, a doce horas de Bogotá, en donde resido actualmente. Les compré un teléfono celular, para que pudieran comunicarse conmigo ante cualquier necesidad, y viajé con ellos hasta mi casita en el campo. Los instalé en ella, les di llave de la casa, les compré un mercado, les di las instrucciones del caso.

En un descuido mío, cogieron mi chaqueta, en la cual yo tenia mis dos celulares smartphone, y mi billetera. Me robaron todo el dinero que tenía en la billetera, y los dos teléfonos, y salieron corriendo.

Me dejaron varado y abandonado en esa casa de campo, que queda a media hora del pueblo más cercano, y a doce horas de Bogotá, en donde trabajo. Con dificultad pude conseguir comunicación con un ex-trabajador mío, que reside en otro pueblo, a tres horas de alli, y le pedi que fuera a rescatarme. Le conté todo. Él conoció a los muchachos pues fue él quien nos llevó hasta allí, para instalarlos. Me tuve que quedar toda una semana esperando a conseguir dinero para poder regresarme a Bogotá, en donde laboro.

Esta situación le ha pasado ya a muchas personas en Colombia. Le ayudan a estos venezolanos que están en la calle, se compadecen de ellos, y tristemente el pago que se recibe de ellos es la ingratitud, y cosas como la que me sucedió a mí. Pudo ser peor, me hubieran hecho alguna cosa más grave, me hubieran herido o matado. Por lo menos se limitaron a robarme. Con lo que me quitaron dudo mucho que hayan llegado lejos. De todas maneras yo no los volví a ver. No pude recuperar los teléfonos celulares y ni siquiera los números de los mismos, porque los bloquearon. Nadie sabe para dónde se fueron.

Por este tipo de actuaciones muchas personas en Colombia están comenzando a pensar que el gobierno nacional debería expulsar a estos refugiados. Ya casi nadie les ayuda, y por tales conductas delictivas los colombianos les están cogiendo aversión y odio, y ya no les quieren colaborar. Por la ingratitud de unos pocos van a pagar todos. Y cada día más crece el número de estas personas, hombres y mujeres, en su mayoría jóvenes, que vinieron a Colombia de huída de la situación en Venezuela. Hay muchas quejas, hay muchos reclamos, ya hay venezolanos incurriendo en delitos contra la propiedad, robando bicicletas, atracando a la gente en las calles, etc.

Esta es  la triste situación que se está presentando. A uno le puede conmover lo que está pasando y lo que ve, estas personas, estos jóvenes durmiendo en la calle y esculcando basuras y viviendo en la más abyecta miseria. Pero por otro lado, le queda a uno el mal recuerdo de la ingratitud de aquellos a quienes uno le ha tratado de ayudar, y le pagan de esta manera.

En verdad, por el comportamiento de algunos de estos refugiados, la actitud de los colombianos hacia ellos ha comenzado a cambiar, para mal. La gente ya no quiere ayudarles, y se le ha endurecido el corazón a aquellos que en un principio les colaboraban y trataban de servir de alguna manera.

Esta es, en este momento, la situación de las grandes y medianas ciudades de Colombia, llena de estos refugiados venezolanos a quienes ya casi nadie quiere, en razón del mal comportamiento de unos pocos de ellos.

It is difficult for those in Venezuela and those who escaped it.

And yes, there are many people who are ungrateful even after being helped repeatedly. Despite the machine-translation, the sadness of being hurt by strangers the emailer helped comes through.

Being ungrateful was prophesied for the last days:

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

A sermon related to giving thanks is also available: Ingratitude and Giving Thanks.

The New Testament teaches:

10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:10).

16 Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. 17 But beware of men, (Matthew 10:16-17a)

Those Venezuelans who were assisted were not of the household of faith. And even some people who claim they are can also turn against those who help them.

Anyway, this crisis has affected not only Venezuelans, but many others. The Venezuelans (and those who try to help them) remain in my prayers.

Venezuela, itself, may have the greatest amount of oil reserves of any country. And even if it is only second or third, it has enough, that from a physical perspective, to solve many of its economic problems if it would take another look at its policies and correct many of them.

Ultimately, I believe that Venezuela will change and some of those who left it will return. Venezuela will likely have some prosperity with trade from the rising Babylonian Beast power, but that will be temporal.

Venezuela, like the rest of the world, needs repentance and the Kingdom of God.

Gold bullion

COGwriter

Gold is so valuable, it is called a ‘precious metal.’ For most of its history, the USA dollar used to be directly convertible to gold. It no longer is.

Going as far back as 1961, the USA was starting to not have enough gold to back its dollar, the Plain Truth reported:

Plain Truth, February 1961

Germany, Japan have the largest surpluses of GOLD and DOLLARS…Rich Uncle {Sam} has the greatest deficit in governmental history and a GREATER DEBT than all the REST OF THE WORLD COMBINED!…

Vast foreign aid programs drain the U.S. Treasury…American spending to supply services and to support our troops in foreign countries and military installations around the world amounts to … dollars flowing out of the frightened U.S. Treasury. All of these factors, combined with heavy taxes, gigantic public and private debt, and no gold backing for our own currency if foreign investors demanded gold for their dollars, adds up to the staggering revelation that the U.S., richest nation in the world, is bordering on bankruptcy! (Hill DJ. What the US Gold Crisis Means to You. Plain Truth. February 1961, p. 9).

France did finally cash in dollars for gold and this caused a crisis in the USA.

The USA went off the gold standard completely in 1971. About the same time it made a deal with Saudi Arabia to price oil in dollars. So, while this prevented “foreigners” from being able to redeem US dollars for something from the USA treasury, instead it meant that dollars could be used to by oil. As other (mostly smaller) oil producers followed Saudi Arabia’s lead, this has served to support the US dollar for several decades.

The USA is now the most indebted nation that the world has ever seen. Many are concerned.

The old Worldwide Church of God published the following in the old Good News magazine:

Good News, Oct-Nov 1979

Of course, since gold is regarded as a disaster hedge by many investors, prudence might dictate that perhaps a small fraction of your liquid assets be in gold: (Caulkins J. WHEN MONEY FAILS. Good News, October-November 1979)

Those in Russia, China, India, and Europe are looking more towards gold, and less towards the USA dollar to back their economies and their currencies.

Back in 1971, the Plain Truth mentioned gold and that a currency coming out of Europe would replace the USA dollar:

Plain Truth, October 1971

FOR 40 YEARS, (1931 to 1971) the American dollar reigned supreme in world trade and finance. From 1945 to 1958, the dollar was considered better than gold to most developing economies. But by 1958 it was becoming evident that the dollar was weakening.

The United States, a war-time haven for three fourths of the world’s gold, began changing the earmarks of the gold buried in the Federal Reserve Bank in New York City, and in Fort Knox, Kentucky, from “USA” to “France,” “Germany” and other nations. Ten years later, in 1968, claims on U. S. gold were running into the millions of dollars per day. More than $12 billion (half) of the U. S. gold was drained between 1958 and 1968, and much of that came in the last hectic months before March 1968, when the U. S. temporarily closed the gold window. …

On August 15, 1971, President Nixon revealed his new economic plan. One part of the strategy was to cut loose the dollar from gold, in effect letting it “float” in foreign transactions until natural market pressure would decide its best value…

The European Common Currency appears to be the most likely successor to the dollar in this long line of monetary dynasties. Europe is the only continent with sufficient gold backing…

… and What About Gold?

The gold standard is not sacred. It is only about 100 years old in the history of man, a product of evolution as much as any social institution. But in a world of sovereign powers, there must be some standard to finance international trade and domestic currency. Gold has the confidence of more people than any other standard, especially in Europe. (Alexander G. America faces “The Dollar Crisis”. Plain Truth magazine, October 1971, pp. 3-4)

Is Europe the continent with enough gold backing for its own currency still today?

Yes!

As far as who has the most gold now, notice the following from Wikipedia:

Top 20 according to World Gold Council’s latest rankings (as of March 2019)

Rank	Country/Organization	Gold holdings (in metric tons)	Gold’s share of forex reserves
1	United States	8,133.5	75.0%
2	Germany	3,369.7	70.6%
—	International Monetary Fund	2,814.0	N/A
3	Italy	2,451.8	66.9%
4	France	2,436.0	60.8%
5	Russia	2,119.2	18.9%
6	China	1,864.3	2.5%
7	Switzerland	1,040.0	5.6%
8	Japan	765.2	2.5%
9	Netherlands	612.5	65.7%
10	India	607.0	6.4%
—	European Central Bank	504.8	28.3%
11	Republic of China	423.6	3.7%
12	Portugal	382.5	61.1%
13	Kazakhstan	353.3	49.1%
14	Uzbekistan	342.1	53.5%
15	Saudi Arabia	323.1	2.6%
16	United Kingdom	310.3	7.5%
17	Lebanon	286.8	23.1%
18	Spain	281.6	16.7%
19	Austria	280.0	49.7%
20	Belgium	227.4	35.5%

The continental European gold reserves listed amount to about 11,586.6 tons. And this does not count other European nations that are not in the top 20.

Back to 1971, notice also the following:

Plain Truth, May 1971

Momentous, historic events are transforming … Europe. But most Americans are “asleep at the switch” to what is happening. It’s time for a self-centered America to wake up – before her allies become her enemies. Envision the startling future of … Europe. A … union …  surpassing both the United States and the Soviet Union in economic strength, possessing for the first time worldwide political power and influence. One news source recently called it an “enormous, physically powerful beast.” A new … Europe controlling perhaps half of all world trade, by exclusive arrangements with dozens of nations who produce raw materials. A “United States of Europe” possessing one single currency – a currency so strong that it will replace the U. S. dollar as the kingpin currency of world trade. (Hogberg G. EUROPE’S COMMON MARKET RISING WORLD COLOSSUS. Plain Truth, May 1971)

Now, Europe does have its own currency–a currency that some see as the logical replacement for the US dollar for world trade–especially because of US sanctions, etc. As far as waking up before Europe becomes an enemy, Lamentations 1:1-2 is a prophecy that shows that allies will become enemies.

The time will come when the USA dollar will be worthless and gold will be even more valuable.

A reader sent me an email that contained the following from a company called Swiss America:

In the gold market there is a cold war climate: For the first time in 50 years, central banks bought over 640 tons of gold bars last year, almost twice as much as in 2017 and the highest level raised since 1971, when U.S. President Richard Nixon closed the era of the gold standard.

The interesting fact is that the European central banks, together with the Asian ones, have been the most aggressive in their purchases. Is this fear of the euro crisis and currency wars?

In reality, and this is especially true in Europe, behind the great maneuvers with gold reserves there is not only the traditional protective shield against major risks; there is also the call of opportunity. A reminder of which few still seem to know, though the appointment is now a matter of a few weeks: March 29, 2019. The day of judgment for the Brexit will also be the advent for the gold market.

It is not clear whether by choice or by chance, the Bank of International Settlements in Basel, Switzerland, called the “central bank of central banks,” for its key role in the world financial system, has set an appointment with the story for March 29: Resurrection of the gold standard in the banking world.

March 29th isn’t the final date, but we are seeing various nations moving more towards gold accumulation and some type of at least implied gold standard.

Earlier this year, Romania proposed repatriating its gold. Notice the following:

Romania’s Social Democrat Party (PSD) leader Liviu Dragnea and PSD senator Serban Nicolae have proposed legislation that requires the National Bank of Romania (BNR) to hold most of its gold reserves domestically. …

While the central bank does keep some gold in its vaults in Bucharest, the majority of gold is held in the United Kingdom with the Bank of England. https://www.kitco.com/news/2019-02-28/Romania-Proposes-to-Repatriate-95-Of-Its-Gold.html

The proposed legislation has been filed for debate in the Senate under urgent procedure. https://www.kitco.com/news/2019-02-28/Romania-Proposes-to-Repatriate-95-Of-Its-Gold.html

Notice something also from last March:

March 13, 2018

– Hungarian National Bank (MNB) to repatriate 100,000 ounces gold from Bank of England
– Follows trend of Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Belgium each looking to bring gold back to home soil …

Whilst many in the West are dismissive about gold, the behaviour of central banks suggests quite a different mindset. …

Gold cannot be devalued as the euro, dollar, sterling and all fiat currencies currently are. …

By adding gold to their reserves they are gaining equal footing with Western banks who have so far tried to dominate under a US-centric financial system. https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2018-03-13/hungarys-gold-repatriation-adds-growing-protest-against-us-dollar-hegemony

Partially because of nationalism, partially because of Brexit, partially because of sanctions threats, and partially because of moves to not be as dependent upon the US dollar, various nations have been repatriating and/or increasing gold reserves.

The Russians and Chinese have been making gold moves (watch US Dollar being challenged by Gold-Petro-Yuan). Russia and China are working towards a world where the US dollar is not the world’s primary reserve currency and a world where gold rises up (see The End of US Dollar Dominance).

The US dollar will collapse as scriptures like Habakkuk 2:6-8 and Daniel 11:39 point to. Daniel 11:39 is the start of the time of Jacob’s trouble (Jeremiah 30:7) also known as the Great Tribulation.

The world will have been used to the stability of the US dollar and Europe will want to try to have that type of confidence in its currency. It will get more gold!

Consider the following:

39 Thus he shall act against the strongest fortresses with a foreign god, which he shall acknowledge, and advance its glory; and he shall cause them to rule over many, and divide the land for gain (Daniel 11:39).

The “he” is the European King of the North. The “land” will likely not be the only thing he will gain–as that would include whatever other wealth he can plunder from the USA–and that would include getting the Fort Knox and other gold in the USA.

Furthermore, the Bible clearly shows that gold will have value into at least the first few couple of years of the Great Tribulation–and that the Europeans will also value it.

Notice the following:

40 “At the time of the end … 43 He shall have power over the treasures of gold and silver and over all the precious things of Egypt; (Daniel 11:40,43)

Verse 43 occurs during the time known as the Great Tribulation.

As far as Egypt and gold goes, notice the following:

“If you look at the potential of the mineral resources in Egypt, it’s very significant,” says Yousef Husseini, Vice President of EFG Hermes.

“The Egyptian mineral resource authority has identified over 120 gold deposits in the eastern desert alone, so that gives you an idea of the tip of the iceberg out there.”

“It’s going to add a lot of GDP growth,” Husseini adds. For now, only one large mine, the Sukari Gold Mine, is operating in the region — with an output of around 500,000 ounces per year.

Overall, the industry makes up a mere 1.3% of Egypt’s GDP, according to the Egyptian Mineral Resources Authority, but the government hopes to expand that to 5% over the next ten years. https://www.cnn.com/2016/06/14/africa/new-golden-age-egypt/index.html

As far as Europe, gold, and the tribulation go, notice the following:

10 … ‘Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! For in one hour your judgment has come.’

11 “And the merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her, for no one buys their merchandise anymore: 12 merchandise of gold and silver, precious stones and pearls, fine linen and purple, silk and scarlet, every kind of citron wood, every kind of object of ivory, every kind of object of most precious wood, bronze, iron, and marble; 13 and cinnamon and incense, fragrant oil and frankincense, wine and oil, fine flour and wheat, cattle and sheep, horses and chariots, and bodies and souls of men. (Revelation 18:10-13)

This shows us that gold and silver were important during the time of the final Babylon as people are mourning about gold after the Great Tribulation has ended and Babylon is destroyed.

There are no similar statements backing up the future value of paper items, like the US dollar or the British pound (scripture, indirectly, teaches their elimination, for details see Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel). Daniel 11:24 shows that the leader mentioned in Daniel 11:43 will somehow also be accumulating wealth prior to this time, and that may involve gold accumulation.

Perhaps to back up a European supported currency, he also may end up with personal and/or national gold reserves and/or wealth from the Vatican. The Vatican has a vast amount of wealth and is prophesied to be improperly involved with the kings of the earth in the end times per Revelation 17.

Now this does NOT mean that gold will only go up in value. It will have ups and downs and probably will drop in value once associated with the temporary peace deal that Daniel 9:27 alludes to (see also The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27).

Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic prophecies discuss gold in the end times.

Notice the following Orthodox prophecy:

Saint Andrew Fool-for-Christ (c. 4th century): This king will rule…Happiness will reign in the world as it did in the days of Noah. People will become very rich…The entire world will fear this king…he will pursue all persons of the Jewish religion out of Constantinople…and the people will rejoice like in the time of Noah until the deluge came God will reveal to this king all the gold wherever it happen to lay concealed from view…(Tzima Otto, H. The Great Monarch and WWIII in Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Scriptural Prophecies. Verenika Press, Rock City (SC), 2000, pp. 113,114).

While the above seems to look forward to the coming ‘days of Noah,’ Jesus warned about that:

26 And as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: 27 They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. (Luke 17:26-27)

Those who will think the coming ‘days of Noah’ are good, are not understanding Jesus’ teachings.

Emperor Leo the Philosopher (c. early 10th century): You will amass the gold of the nations…And you will be the leader of the surrounding powers…and those that are near will prostate themselves before your feet (Tzima Otto, pp. 76-77).

To Emperor Manuel II (d. 1425): …upon the command of the the good Emperor they will go and discover treasures of gold and silver and all this will be offered as a gift to the pious ones; later on more and more valuable treasures will be found and the Emperor will do with those treasures likewise (Tzima Otto, p. 102).

Roman Catholics may wish to consider that those last three Orthodox predictions sound a lot like prophecies from two of their saints about Antichrist (Ephrem is also an Orthodox saint):

Saint Ephrem (died 375): Antichrist will use worldly goods as bait. He will entice many Christians with money and goods to apostatize…The devil will help him find all the hidden treasures of the world, even those at the bottom of the ocean. With those treasures he will attain greater success for the reign of Satan than at any other time in past centuries (Connor, Edward. Prophecy for Today. Imprimatur + A.J. Willinger, Bishop of Monterey-Fresno; Reprint: Tan Books and Publishers, Rockford (IL), 1984, pp.73.74).

Saint Mechtilda (died 1299): Antichrist will, through base and false strategem, and with presents of gold and gems, attain influence over the worldly princes. They will look up to him as their Lord and God (Culleton, The Reign of Antichrist, pp. 133-134).

So does the Great Monarch amass gold with God’s help like Orthodox prophecies suggest or does he amass gold with the help of Satan as at least one Catholic saint and certain biblical prophecies (Daniel 11:43; Revelation 18; 9:20) indicate?

The answer should be obvious to all who wish to believe the God of the Bible.  The Bible is clear that those who amass gold at the end time will find it is not the answer:

1 Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days. (James 5:1-3)

(cf. Revelation 18:9-17).

While I do not have the confidence in gold as many ‘gold bugs’ do (basically, because of scripture and the fact that gold has a limited utility), the time will come when the USA will wish it had more gold, as its practice of electronically printing and borrowing its own money will create a massive problem for it (Habakkuk 2:6-8).

But have no doubt about it, the Bible prophesies that during the Great Tribulation (Matthew 24:21-22; Daniel 11:39-43; Revelation 18:12,16) that nations around the world will value gold. During that time, there will be no US dollar prominence.

Unlike the USA dollar, gold seems to be prophesied to retain value past the time the USA is gone (cf. Daniel 11:43; Revelation 18)–though it too will end up with issues and will one day be worthless (Ezekiel 7: 19).

The Babylonian European Beast power will control a lot of gold.

The Continuing Church of God (CCOG) is pleased to announce the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel:

Gold is so valuable it is called a precious metal. What nation has the most of it? Is there an area of nations with more? Will gold last longer than the USA dollar? Are there properties about the Beast and/or the Antichrist in the Bible that show that the European Babylonian Beast power will amass gold during the time of the Great Tribulation? Are there Eastern Orthodox prophecies that look forward to this? Are there biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies that warn against this? Are European central banks already accumulating gold? Did Swiss America state that some central banks are leaning towards a gold standard? Might the coming King of the North accumulate gold to use to help shore up his currency after the demise of the US dollar? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues and more.

Here is a link to the sermonette video: Beast Prophecies and European Gold.

The Europeans are in the process of accumulating gold and will amass more gold shortly after the start of the Great Tribulation.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Plain Truth About Gold in Prophecy. How Should a Christian View Gold? What do economists and the Bible teach about gold? Gold and silver may drop in value. Inflation/deflation? What do Christians need to know about gold? Two videos of related interest are Beast Prophecies and European Gold and Germany, Gold, and the US Dollar.
Some Doctrines of Antichrist Are there any doctrines taught outside the Churches of God which can be considered as doctrines of antichrist? This article suggests at least three. It also provides information on 666 and the identity of “the false prophet.” Plus it shows that several Catholic writers seem to warn about an ecumenical antipope that will support heresy. You can also watch a video titled What Does the Bible teach about the Antichrist?
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no Final End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West? Here is a version in the Spanish language: ¿Quién es el Rey del Occidente? ¿Por qué no hay un Rey del Occidente en la profecía del tiempo del fin? A related sermon is also available: The Bible, the USA, and the King of the West.
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? 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.
The Great Monarch: Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Is the ‘Great Monarch’ of Catholic prophecies endorsed or condemned by the Bible? Two sermons of related interest are also available: Great Monarch: Messiah or False Christ? and Great Monarch in 50+ Beast Prophecies.
Jesus Returning, David’s Throne, and the Stone of Destiny Will Jesus return to the throne of David? What about the Stone of Scone? Here is a link to a related video: Stone of Destiny and Jesus’ Return.
The End of US Dollar Dominance Is the USA losing its economic status? What about the petro-gold-yuan? A related video is also available: US Dollar being challenged by Gold-Petro-Yuan.
Physical Preparation Scriptures for Christians. We all know the Bible prophecies famines. Should we do something? Here is a version in the Spanish language Escrituras sobre Preparación física para los Cristianos. Here is a link to a related sermon: Physical preparedness for Christians.
Christian Repentance Do you know what repentance is? Is it really necessary for salvation? A related sermon is also available titled: Real Christian Repentance.
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.
When You Sin: Do You Really Repent? This is an article by Charles F. Hunting. A related sermon is Confess to God and truly repent.
Do Christians Sin? This is an article by Herbert W. Armstrong.
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?
European Technology and the Beast of Revelation Will the coming European Beast power would use and develop technology that will result in the taking over of the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies? Is this possible? What does the Bible teach? Here is a related YouTube video: Military Technology and the Beast of Revelation.
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.
Will the Anglo-Saxon-Celtic 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?
British are the Covenant People What do ‘British’ and ‘Britain’ mean in Hebrew? Are the descendants of the Anglo-Saxons people of the covenant? Does the British royal family connect to the throne of David? What does the Bible teach? What does history show us? Is there any DNA evidence related to British-Israelism? When did Christianity make it to the British Isles? Could Jeremiah have made it to the British Isles? What type of Christians made it to the British Isles? Did the last King of England believe in British Israelism?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2019, 2020, or 2021? 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 2018 o 2019? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? You can also see the English language sermon videos: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives and Can the Great Tribulation begin before 2020? A shorter and newer video is: Might the Great Tribulation start in 2019?
The Times of the Gentiles Has there been more than one time of the Gentiles? Are we in it now or in the time of Anglo-America? What will the final time of the Gentiles be like? A related sermon is available and is titled: The Times of the Gentiles.
Armageddon Who is involved and when will this gathering happen? Here is also a video from Dr. Thiel, from Tel Megiddo in Israel: Armageddon. Other videos include: Armageddon Will it come on Trump’s watch?, Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy, Freemasonry, Armageddon, and Rome, Is China paving roads to Armageddon?, and Jordan, Petra, and Armageddon.

COGwriter

The Continuing Church of God (CCOG) is pleased to announce the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel:

Some have claimed that according to Acts 4:12, unless you use the name ‘Yashua’ you cannot be saved. Is that true? What names are in Acts 4:10-12? What are the names of God in the Old Testament? What are the names of God in the New Testament? Is the name Jesus a linguistic derivative of the pagan god Zeus? Does the New Testament record God’s Son using sacred names? Does the New Testament use the precise Hebrew ‘sacred names’ of Yahweh/Yahveh or Yashua? If the name Jesus is not actually in the New Testament, what is the actual name used? What about the terms ‘Lord’ and ‘Christ’? Is it proper to use the term ‘Lord’? Who did the Messiah pray to? Who did the Messiah say to pray to? Did early Christian teach ‘sacred names’? What is the truth on these matters? Dr. Thiel answers these questions and more.

Here is a link to the sermonette video: Must Christians use ‘Sacred Names’?

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Bible, Church History, and Sacred Names What are ‘sacred names’? What is Jesus’ Old Testament name? Is the use of sacred names a subject of salvation or a false gospel? Must we refer to our Saviour as Yahweh or Yashua? A related sermon is available: Sacred Names: True or False Gospel? as is a much shorter sermonette video: Must Christians use ‘Sacred Names’?
Was the New Testament Written in Greek, Hebrew, or Aramaic? What language was the New Testament written in? Does it make any difference? What about sacred names? Did the Apostle Paul ever teach in Greek?
Proof Jesus is the Messiah This free book has over 200 Hebrew prophecies were fulfilled by Jesus. Plus, His arrival was consistent with specific prophecies and even Jewish interpretations of prophecy. Here are links to seven related sermons: Proof Jesus is the Messiah, Prophecies of Jesus’ birth, timing, and death, Jesus’ prophesied divinity, 200+ OT prophecies Jesus filled; Plus prophecies He made, Why Don’t Jews Accept Jesus?, Daniel 9, Jews, and Jesus, and Facts and Atheists’ Delusions About Jesus. Plus the links to two sermonettes: Luke’s census: Any historical evidence? and Muslims believe Jesus is the Messiah, but … These videos cover nearly all of the book, plus have some information not in the book.
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.
Christians: Ambassadors for the Kingdom of God, Biblical instructions on living as a Christian This is a scripture-filled booklet for those wishing to live as a real Christian. A related sermon is also available: Christians are Ambassadors for the Kingdom of God.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God This free online pdf booklet has answers many questions people have about the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and explains why it is the solution to the issues the world is facing. Here are links to three related sermons: The World’s False Gospel, The Gospel of the Kingdom: From the New and Old Testaments, and The Kingdom of God is the Solution.
Where is the True Christian Church Today? This free online pdf booklet answers that question and includes 18 proofs, clues, and signs to identify the true vs. false Christian church. Plus 7 proofs, clues, and signs to help identify Laodicean churches. A related sermon is also available: Where is the True Christian Church? Here is a link to the booklet in the Spanish language: ¿Dónde está la verdadera Iglesia cristiana de hoy? Here is a link in the German language: WO IST DIE WAHRE CHRISTLICHE KIRCHE HEUTE? Here is a link in the French language: Où est la vraie Église Chrétienne aujourd’hui? Here is a link to a short animation: Which Church would Jesus Choose?
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 Acts 2 to the 21st century. Related sermon links include Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D. and Continuing History of the Church of God: 4th-16th Centuries and Continuing History of the Church of God: 17th-20th Centuries. The booklet is available in Spanish: Continuación de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios, German: Kontinuierliche Geschichte der Kirche Gottes, French: L Histoire Continue de l Église de Dieu and Ekegusii Omogano Bw’ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete.
CCOG.ORG Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God.
Congregations of the Continuing Church of God This is a listing of congregations and groups of the Continuing Church of God around the world.
Continuing Church of God Facebook page This has news and prophetic information.
CCOG.ASIA We in the Continuing Church of God also have the url www.ccog.asia which has a focus on Asia and has various articles in Mandarin Chinese as well as some in English, plus some items in other Asian languages. 我们在继续神的教会也提供此网址 www.ccog.asia, 关注于亚洲并且有各种各样的中英文文章，其中一些用菲律宾语翻译的文章也正在进行中，准备添加到这个网站中。 Here is a link to our Statement of Beliefs in Mandarin Chinese 继续神的教会的信仰声明.
CCOG.IN This is a website targeted towards those of Indian heritage. It has a link to an edited Hindi translation of The Mystery of the Ages and is expected to have more non-English language materials in the future.
CCOG.EU This is a website targeted toward Europe. It has materials in more than one language (currently it has English, Dutch, and Serbian, with links also to Spanish) and it is intended to have additional language materials added.
CCOG.NZ This is a website targeted towards New Zealand and others with a British-descended background.
CCOGAFRICA.ORG This is a website targeted towards those in Africa.
CCOGCANADA.CA This is a website targeted towards those in Canada.
CDLIDD.ES La Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios. This is the Spanish language website for the Continuing Church of God.
PNIND.PH Patuloy na Iglesya ng Diyos. This is the Philippines website Continuing Church of God. It has information in English and Tagalog.
CCOG Animations channel. The Continuing Church of God has some animations to teach aspects of Christian beliefs.
Bible News Prophecy channel. Dr. Thiel has produced many YouTube videos for the BibleNewsProphecy channel. And you can find them there.
ContinuingCOG channel. Dr. Thiel has produced YouTube video sermons for this channel. Note: Since these are sermon-length, they can take a little longer to load than other YouTube videos. Here is a link to a short intro: ContinuingCOG Channel.
CCOGAfrica channel. This has messages from African pastors in African languages such as Kalenjin, Kiswahili, Embu, and Dholuo.
BibleNewsProphecy Podcast. This has audio-visual podcasts of the Bible News Prophecy channgel. It plays on i-Phones, i-Pads, and Windows devices that can play i-Tunes.
Bible News Prophecy online radio. This is an audio version of the Bible News Prophecy videos. It is also available as a mobile app.

How will the #OBOR initiative impact treasurers operating in Asia? Part 1: the internationalization of the RMB https://t.co/7Wg0nOlUqz pic.twitter.com/h114ZjfVKZ

— The Global Treasurer (@TGTreasurer) February 19, 2019

COGwriter

Despite US concerns, Italy has moved to accept being part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (also know as the new Silk Road Project):

Italy endorses China’s Belt and Road plan in first for a G7 nation

March 23, 2019

ROME (Reuters) – Italy endorsed China’s “Belt and Road” infrastructure project on Saturday, the first Group of Seven industrialised power to do so, as Rome brushed off worries among its Western allies in a bid to revive the flagging Italian economy.

The signing ceremony was the highlight of a three-day trip to Italy by Chinese President Xi Jinping, which has boosted ties between the two nations at a time when the United States is locked in a trade war with China.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is aimed at bolstering Beijing’s economic and political reach. https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-italy-china-president/italy-signs-contested-belt-and-road-accord-with-china-idUKKCN1R40DZ?il=0

Italy Signs Up to China’s Global Infrastructure Plan Despite U.S. Ire

U.S. diplomats and EU officials have criticized Italy’s move, warning that China’s plans could weaken Western cohesion

March 23, 2019

ROME—Italy and China signed an agreement to cooperate on Beijing’s global infrastructure plan, the Belt and Road Initiative, sealing an accord that has alarmed Italy’s U.S. and European allies. https://www.wsj.com/articles/italy-signs-up-to-chinas-global-infrastructure-plan-despite-u-s-ire-11553341408

A few weeks ago, when this was a public possibility, I dismissed concerns that the US or EU would stop this from happening.

If you watch the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel you will notice that I did not dwell on the opposition to Italy’s participation, but why prophetically this made sense:

8:20

China’s Silk Road and Babylon the Great

China has been embarking on a multi-trillion dollar project to build roads and ports to connect more of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe to it. This has been called the ‘Belt and Road Initiative,’ Silk Road Project, Silk Road 2.0, and the One Belt, One Road Initiative. While this is expected to benefit Chinese trade (as well as provide infrastructure for the gathering at Armageddon), could this also benefit the rise of Babylon the Great foretold in the Book of Revelation and scriptures in the Old Testament? What about the proposed Polar Silk Road? Will the benefits to Europe last or will the end time ‘daughter of Babylon’ possibly face invasion from nations involved with the Silk Road project? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues with scriptures from the Bible.

Here is a link to our video: China’s Silk Road and Babylon the Great.

While it is true that the Silk Road project increases China’s economic and political influence, the reality is that most roads go both ways. And that certainly will be the case for those involved in this project.

Anyway, here is some of what I posted about this project earlier this month:

Italy’s involvement with the project really puts Europe on the BRI map.

Since the Bible teaches that it will be Europe that will dominate world trade, Italy’s expected involvement in the BRI looks to be a way that Europe will get access to markets in Asia and Africa.

For example, the Bible teaches the following about an end time European power:

2 … Babylon … 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. (Revelation 18:2,3)

The above is referring to the fact that nations of the world are prophesied to get wealthy trading with end time Babylon, which will be a European entity. This European power will have religious ties to the City of Seven Hills–the Church of Rome:

1 Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and talked with me, saying to me, “Come, I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters, 2 with whom the kings of the earth committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication.” (Revelation 17:1-2)

9 Here is the mind which has wisdom: The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sits. … 18 And the woman whom you saw is that great city which reigns over the kings of the earth.” (Revelation 17:9,18)

The Bible tells of a trading power arising in Europe that is tied to the City of Seven Hills. Europe, the United Nations, and the Vatican have stated that they have agreed on essentially the same future for the world. Interestingly, the Chinese BRI looks to assist with that.

Back in 1971, the old Worldwide Church of God (WCG) published the following:

Momentous, historic events are transforming Western Europe. But most Americans are “asleep at the switch” to what is happening. It’s time for a self-centered America to wake up – before her allies become her enemies. Envision the startling future of Western Europe. A … union of perhaps 250 million people, surpassing both the United States and the Soviet Union in economic strength, possessing for the first time worldwide political power and influence. One news source recently called it an “enormous, physically powerful beast.” A new Western Europe controlling perhaps half of all world trade, by exclusive arrangements with dozens of nations who produce raw materials. A “United States of Europe” possessing one single currency – a currency so strong that it will replace the U. S. dollar as the kingpin currency of world trade.(Hogberg G. EUROPE’S COMMON MARKET RISING WORLD COLOSSUS. Plain Truth, 1971)

Now, Europe does have its own currency–a currency that some see as the logical replacement for the US dollar for world trade–especially because of US sanctions, etc. (see also SWIFT end of the USA by 2025 as EU, Russia, China, and Iran take steps?). Now, let me add that less than a decade after the above was published, the WCG publicly announced that Eastern Europe would also be part of this European power. And within a decade of that, Eastern European nations began to officially join in with what has become the European Union. And, in population (over 510 million), the European Union is actually larger than that of the USA and Russia combined (though once the UK is out, it will be a bit smaller–yet other nations want to become part of it).

The prophecies in Revelation 18 about the trading Babylonian power will come to pass.

Infrastructure helps trade, and that is what the BRI project is intent on doing. (Thiel B. Italy looking to support ‘Silk Road 2.0,’ the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative. COGwriter, March 8, 2019)

While the BRI/Silk Road project will aid in the rise of the end time Babylonian power and increase the wealth of merchants, the Bible shows that this will not last:

11 “And the merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her, for no one buys their merchandise anymore: 12 merchandise of gold and silver, precious stones and pearls, fine linen and purple, silk and scarlet, every kind of citron wood, every kind of object of ivory, every kind of object of most precious wood, bronze, iron, and marble; 13 and cinnamon and incense, fragrant oil and frankincense, wine and oil, fine flour and wheat, cattle and sheep, horses and chariots, and bodies and souls of men. 14 The fruit that your soul longed for has gone from you, and all the things which are rich and splendid have gone from you, and you shall find them no more at all. 15 The merchants of these things, who became rich by her, will stand at a distance for fear of her torment, weeping and wailing, 16 and saying, ‘Alas, alas, that great city that was clothed in fine linen, purple, and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls! 17 For in one hour such great riches came to nothing.’ Every shipmaster, all who travel by ship, sailors, and as many as trade on the sea, stood at a distance 18 and cried out when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, ‘What is like this great city?’

19 “They threw dust on their heads and cried out, weeping and wailing, and saying, ‘Alas, alas, that great city, in which all who had ships on the sea became rich by her wealth! For in one hour she is made desolate.’  (Revelation 18:11-19)

A massive trading system, also involving human trafficking is discussed in the Hebrew scriptures as well:

12 “Tarshish was your merchant because of your many luxury goods. They gave you silver, iron, tin, and lead for your goods. 13 Javan, Tubal, and Meshech were your traders. They bartered human lives and vessels of bronze for your merchandise. 14 Those from the house of Togarmah traded for your wares with horses, steeds, and mules. 15 The men of Dedan were your traders; many isles were the market of your hand. They brought you ivory tusks and ebony as payment. 16 Syria was your merchant because of the abundance of goods you made. They gave you for your wares emeralds, purple, embroidery, fine linen, corals, and rubies. (Ezekiel 27:12-16)

Human trafficking is again going to become ‘legal’ (or at least tolerated). Many will be shocked to learn that the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies are to be among those that will be bought and sold (see the article Will the Anglo-Saxon Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? and/or watch the video Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves?).

With Italy and China agreeing to move forward, we are getting closer to the final “times of the Gentiles.”

China’s Silk Road project will also make it easier for troops to amass at Armageddon (watch Is China paving roads to Armageddon?).

World events continue to align with properly understood biblical prophecies.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

China’s Silk Road and Babylon the Great China has been embarking on a multi-trillion dollar project to build roads and ports to connect more of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe to it. This has been called the ‘Belt and Road Initiative,’ Silk Road Project, Silk Road 2.0, and the One Belt, One Road Initiative. While this is expected to benefit Chinese trade (as well as provide infrastructure for the gathering at Armageddon), could this also benefit the rise of Babylon the Great foretold in the Book of Revelation and scriptures in the Old Testament? What about the proposed Polar Silk Road? Will the benefits to Europe last or will the end time ‘daughter of Babylon’ possibly face invasion from nations involved with the Silk Road project? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues with scriptures from the Bible.
Is China paving roads to Armageddon? China is working on something known as the ‘Silk Road’ project or the “One Belt, One Road” initiative. NBC reports that China intends to spend one trillion dollars to build roads, bridges, railroads, and maritime facilities to reach from China to Europe and China to the Middle East. Over 60 nations, including Russia, are involved with this. Could this Silk Road project possibly produce thoroughfares that could be used by troops that will amass at Armageddon? Dr. Thiel discusses this project and some of its potential prophetic ramifications in this video.
Armageddon Who is involved and when will this gathering happen? Here is also a video from Dr. Thiel, from Tel Megiddo in Israel: Armageddon. Other videos include: Armageddon Will it come on Trump’s watch?, Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy, Freemasonry, Armageddon, and Rome, Is China paving roads to Armageddon?, and Jordan, Petra, and Armageddon.
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Genesis and Chinese Characters Where did the Chinese people come from? This article provides information showing that the Chinese peoples must have known about various accounts in the Book of Genesis up until their dispersion after the Tower of Babel. Here is a link to a version of this article in Spanish: ¿Prueban los caracteres chinos la exactitud de la Biblia?
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: The Sabbath and Some of God’s Witness in China When did Christianity first come to China? And is there early evidence that they observed the seventh day sabbath?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon? A YouTube video of interest may be Is China THE Threat to the United States of America?
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?
The Mark of Antichrist What is the mark of Antichrist? What have various ones claimed? Here is a link to a related sermon What is the ‘Mark of Antichrist’?
Mark of the Beast What is the mark of the Beast? Who is the Beast? What have various ones claimed the mark is? What is the ‘Mark of the Beast’?
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?
European Technology and the Beast of Revelation Will the coming European Beast power would use and develop technology that will result in the taking over of the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies? Is this possible? What does the Bible teach? Here is a related YouTube video: Military Technology and the Beast of Revelation.
The Large Hadron Collider has Military Potential Some say this European project is only peaceful. So why is it working on capturing antimatter? Here is a link to a related video: Could the Large Hadron Collider lead to destruction?
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. A related sermon is titled Ten Kings of Revelation and 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.
USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses Can you point to scriptures, like Daniel 11:39, that point to the USA in the 21st century? This article does. A related sermon is titled: Do these 7 prophesies point to the end of the USA?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2019, 2020, or 2021? 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 2018 o 2019? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? You can also see the English language sermon videos: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives and Can the Great Tribulation begin before 2020? A shorter and newer video is: Might the Great Tribulation start in 2019?
The Times of the Gentiles Has there been more than one time of the Gentiles? Are we in it now or in the time of Anglo-America? What will the final time of the Gentiles be like? A related sermon is available and is titled: The Times of the Gentiles.

Philadelphia Trumpet, April 2019

COGwriter

A reader sent me a link today to the following from PCG’s Gerald Flurry which is in the April 2019 issue of the Philadelphia Trumpet:

A Sealed Book

The context of Isaiah 29:14 is about the great majority of God’s people going astray. “Stay yourselves, and wonder; cry ye out, and cry: they are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink” (verse 9). This is about God’s people, who were spiritually sober but have become “drunk” on false doctrines. They are in a terrible spiritual condition in these latter days. …

The copyright battle we fought for Mystery of the Ages was specifically prophesied in the book of Habakkuk, one of the minor prophets. This book is not just history—it is for our day! As it says in Habakkuk 2:3, “… at the end it shall speak.”

Habakkuk 2 most certainly is not related to the copyright battle that PCG had. PCG, without asking to buy/license certain materials of the old Worldwide Church of God (WCG), printed various materials. Now it has long been my view that PCG should have tried to work this out with WCG first (that could have saved it time and money).

Anyway, since PCG apparently had not asked before printing, WCG claimed copyright ownership and sued.

However, PCG pointed out that it felt its church needed those materials and that it believed that WCG was suppressing copyrights. In the USA, if you hold a copyright, that gives you the right to copy, sell, or license the work. Generally, it does not give you the right to suppress the work. Basically, if the copyright holder will not make the copyrighted materials reasonably available, then (depending on the circumstances) they can be considered to have lost or abandoned their copyright.

In the case of the WCG vs. PCG lawsuit, it is my understanding that WCG realized that it had some legal exposure here and instead of waiting to be told it could have lost its copyrights and gotten nothing, it decided to sell the copyrights of certain books and booklets to PCG.

That most certainly is not a ‘wonder.’

Since that time, WCG (who changed its name to Grace Communion International) has not reprinted nor made available much of the old publications that it originally had copyrights to. This is basically one reason why several groups and individuals have put them up online. It is my understanding that because of the length of time such materials have been out in the public realm, this could indicate an abandonment of copyright.

Now as far as Habakkuk 2:3 goes, let’s look at it and the verse that precedes it:

2 Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. 3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. (Habakkuk 2:2-3)

The context is clearly not got anything to do with a court battle related to copyrights. Furthermore, this battle did not make people run. Instead, various ones began to put more old WCG materials online (like COGwriter did with a few articles in the late 2012 after Grace Communion International told me in writing that they would not sell nor license certain old WCG materials when I asked them).

Anyway, this WCG vs. PCG battle was not a wonder from God.

Yet, in the article Gerald Flurry also wrote:

Habakkuk wrote, “The burden which Habakkuk the prophet did see. O Lord, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! even cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save! Why dost thou shew me iniquity [lawlessness], and cause me to behold grievance [injustice]? for spoiling and violence are before me: and there are that raise up strife [or, a lawsuit] and contention [a personal or legal contest]” (Habakkuk 1:1-3). The language in this passage is that of a legal battle—a lawsuit.For six years, we had to strive at the law with the organization that owned the copyrights to Mr. Armstrong’s works. Righteous men were being encompassed by unrighteous men, led by an evil man within God’s own Church (verse 4). That was a contentious battle! And for six years, justice was perverted just as Habakkuk prophesied.

Yet in the midst of that contention, God’s little flock, led by a man who was following God, did amazing wonders! The very next verse reads, “Behold ye among the heathen, and regard, and wonder marvellously: for I will work a work in your days, which ye will not believe, though it be told you” (verse 5). This verse is an important and inspiring verse. And remember, it is within the context of the legal battle over God’s truth.

‘The Gathering of  the Manna’ (Tissot c. 1900)

COGwriter

The Continuing Church of God is pleased to announce this sermon from its ContinuingCOG channel:

1:11:01

Exodus 16-19: Manna, Governance, and End Time Protection

This is the sixth part of a multi-part sermon series covering the entire Book of Exodus. In this sermon, Dr. Thiel goes over each and every verse of chapters 16 through 19 of Exodus, and ties many parts to the New Testament. He goes over the giving of manna, Jesus being the bread of life, and facts and theories about what manna was, and if it may be provided in the future at the place of protection prophesied in the wilderness. He goes over Jethro’s instructions to Moses on governance, Moses’ response, and what the New Testament teaches about that type of governance. Dr. Thiel discusses various aspects of Christian living. He also ties statements about manna and “eagles wings” to prophecies in the New Testament.

Here is a link to the sermon: Exodus 16-19: Manna, Governance, and End Time Protection.

Here are links to the earlier parts of this sermon series:

1. Exodus 1-4: Jewish Myths or Lessons for Christians Today?
2. Exodus 5-7: Serpents, Blood, and Revelation.
3. Exodus 8-9: Plagues and Prophecy.
4. Exodus 10-12: The Last Plagues & 21st Century Prophecies.
5. Exodus 13-15: Passover Protection and Armageddon.

Some items of possibly related interest may include the following:

EXODUS Exodus sermons include Exodus 1-4: Jewish Myths or Lessons for Christians Today?, Exodus 5-7: Serpents, Blood, and Revelation, Exodus 8-9: Plagues and Prophecy, Exodus 10-12: The Last Plagues & 21st Century Prophecies, and Exodus 13-15: Passover Protection and Armageddon. There is also more, such as the article: When was the Exodus? Did it Happen? Some deny the biblical account of the Exodus. Was Ramses II the pharaoh then? When did the Exodus occur?  Is there proof outside of the Bible that there was an Exodus? Here is a related article in the Spanish language: ¿Cuándo fue el Éxodo? ¿Ocurrió realmente? Also: Reasons, Proofs, and Ramifications of the Ten Plagues of Exodus What do you know about these plagues? What happened to the ‘gods of Egypt’? Is there any confirmation outside the Bible? Might something worse be coming? A related two-part sermon is available: Egypt and the Plagues (Part 1) and Exodus Plagues and Prophecy (Part 2). Also: Exodus and the Days of Unleavened Bread This article discusses parts of the Book of Exodus with some connections to the Days of Unleavened Bread. Related sermons are available Exodus 1-4: Jewish Myths or Lessons for Christians Today?, Exodus 5-7: Serpents, Blood, and Revelation, Exodus 8-9: Plagues and Prophecy and Unleavened Bread: Lessons in Exodus. Another sermon is Exodus, Judgments, and Jesus. Also Exodus 4:24, Why would God have sought to kill Moses? What did Moses do wrong? Do you have a similar problem? Another article is Exodus 16-19 which covers all of those verses; here is a link to a related sermon: Exodus 16-19: Manna, Governance, and End Time Protection.
There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Near Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory. Two sermon-length videos of relaled interest are available Physical Protection During the Great Tribulation and Might Petra be the Place of Safety?  Here is something related in the Spanish language: Hay un lugar de seguridad para los Filadelfinos. ¿Puede ser Petra?
The Bible, Peter, Paul, John, Polycarp, Herbert W. Armstrong, Roderick C. Meredith, and Bob Thiel on Church Government What form of governance did the early church have? Was it hierarchical? Which form of governance would one expect to have in the Philadelphia remnant? The people decide and/or committee forms, odd dictatorships, or the same type that the Philadelphia era itself had? What are some of the scriptural limits on ecclesiastical authority? Do some commit organizational idolatry? Here is a Spanish language version La Biblia, Policarpo, Herbert W. Armstrong, y Roderick C. Meredith sobre el gobierno de la Iglesia. Here is a link to a sermon titled Church Governance.
Examine Yourself before Passover This article goes into some of why real Christians are to do this. Two related sermons are Really examine yourself before Passover and Passover Examination.
Keeping Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread How should Christians keep Passover, especially if they are by themselves. Why does the Church of God not require lambs for Passover? How does one keep the Days of Unleavened Bread? For a step-by-step video for Christians to keep it, check out CCOG Passover Service. Here is a link to a related article in the Spanish language: Guardando la Pascua y los Días de los Panes sin Levadura.
Preparing for Passover The Apostle Paul taught that Christians should examine themselves prior to taking Passover. This YouTube video sermon gives suggestions on how to prepare.
How to Keep God’s Festivals Many have heard of God’s Holy Days and wonder how they are kept in the 21st century. This is an overview article. A related sermon is also available titled: How to Keep God’s Feasts.
Passover and the Early Church Did the early Christians observe Passover? What did Jesus and Paul teach? Why did Jesus die for our sins? There is also a detailed YouTube video available titled History of the Christian Passover.
The Passover Plot What was the first Passover plot? Which plots have Islam and the Greco-Roman faiths perpetuated about Passover? A sermon video of related interest is The Passover Plots, Including Easter.
Melito’s Homily on the Passover This is one of the earliest Christian writings about the Passover. This also includes what Apollinaris wrote on the Passover as well. Here is a related sermon, also titled Melito’s Homily on the Passover.
TPM: Passover on the 14th or 15th? While the real COG observes Passover on the 14th, some observe it on the 15th. Why is the 14th correct? A related sermon is titled Is Passover on the 14th or 15th for Christians?
The Night to Be Observed What is the night to be much observed? When is it? Why do Jews keep Passover twice and emphasize the wrong date? A related animation is available: Night to Be Observed. And a video is also available The Night to Be Much Observed.
Should Christians Keep the Days of Unleavened Bread? Do they have any use or meaning now? What is leaven? This article supplies some biblical answers. Here is a YouTube video intended to be viewed for the first day of unleavened bread: Christians and the Days of Unleavened Bread.
Holy Day Calendar This is a listing of the biblical holy days through 2024, with their Roman calendar dates. They are really hard to observe if you do not know when they occur ? In the Spanish/Español/Castellano language: Calendario de los Días Santos. In Mandarin Chinese: 何日是神的圣日？ 这里是一份神的圣日日历从2013年至2024年。.
Faith for Those God has Called and Chosen What is faith? Can faith be increased? Are you saved by faith? What about works? Do Christians need to keep the Ten Commandments? What is the ‘faith chapter’? How do the just live by faith? Is faith one of the weightier matters of the law? How does faith come? Marque aquí para ver el pdf folleto: Fe para aquellos que Dios ha llamado y escogido. In German: Glaube für die von Gott Berufenen und Auserwählten. In French: La Foi pour ceux que Dieu a Appelés et Choisis. Here is a link to a related sermon titled: Faith for the Called and Chosen.and here is a link to another sermon Faith and Courage. Here is a link to shorter version of the written article in Mandarin Chinese N{ÇQsNŽOáNðv„\e‡zà.
Messianic Judaism Beliefs Differ from the Continuing Church of God Both groups keep the seventh-day Sabbath, but have important differences in doctrines and practices. Here is a link to a related sermon: Messianic Jewish Beliefs.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God This free online pdf booklet has answers many questions people have about the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and explains why it is the solution to the issues the world is facing. Here are links to three related sermons: The World’s False Gospel, The Gospel of the Kingdom: From the New and Old Testaments, and The Kingdom of God is the Solution.
The Ten Commandments: The Decalogue, Christianity, and the Beast This is a free draft/unedited pdf book explaining the what the Ten Commandments are, where they came from, how early professors of Christ viewed them, and how various ones, including the Beast of Revelation, will oppose them. A related sermon is titled: The Ten Commandments and the Beast of Revelation.
Where is the True Christian Church Today? This free online pdf booklet answers that question and includes 18 proofs, clues, and signs to identify the true vs. false Christian church. Plus 7 proofs, clues, and signs to help identify Laodicean churches. A related sermon is also available: Where is the True Christian Church? Here is a link to the booklet in the Spanish language: ¿Dónde está la verdadera Iglesia cristiana de hoy? Here is a link in the German language: WO IST DIE WAHRE CHRISTLICHE KIRCHE HEUTE? Here is a link in the French language: Où est la vraie Église Chrétienne aujourd’hui?
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 Acts 2 to the 21st century. Related sermon links include Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D. and Continuing History of the Church of God: 4th-16th Centuries and Continuing History of the Church of God: 17th-20th Centuries. The booklet is available in Spanish: Continuación de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios, German: Kontinuierliche Geschichte der Kirche Gottes, and Ekegusii Omogano Bw’ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete.
CCOG.ORG Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God. There are links to literature is about 100 different languages there. To see how CCOG has done so far, here are links to two sermons Continuing Church of God (CCOG) first year anniversary: What has been accomplished? and CCOG 6 years: Philadelphians understand scriptures others miss. Here is a written link to a version of that first sermon in the Spanish language: Aniversario del primer año de la Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios: ¿Qué se ha cumplido?
Congregations of the Continuing Church of God This is a listing of congregations and groups of the Continuing Church of God around the world.
Continuing Church of God Facebook page This has news and prophetic information.
Continuing Church of God, Africa, Facebook page This has news and prophetic information.
Continuing Church of God, Canada, Facebook page This has news and prophetic information.
Continuing Church of God, Europe, Facebook page This has news and prophetic information.
CCOG.ASIA We in the Continuing Church of God also have the url www.ccog.asia which has a focus on Asia and has various articles in Mandarin Chinese as well as some in English, plus some items in other Asian languages. 我们在继续神的教会也提供此网址 www.ccog.asia, 关注于亚洲并且有各种各样的中英文文章，其中一些用菲律宾语翻译的文章也正在进行中，准备添加到这个网站中。 Here is a link to our Statement of Beliefs in Mandarin Chinese 继续神的教会的信仰声明.
CCOG.IN This is a website targeted towards those of Indian heritage. It has a link to an edited Hindi translation of The Mystery of the Ages and is expected to have more non-English language materials in the future.
CCOG.EU This is a website targeted toward Europe. It has materials in more than one language (currently it has English, Dutch, and Serbian, with links also to Spanish) and it is intended to have additional language materials added.
CCOG.NZ This is a website targeted towards New Zealand and others with a British-descended background.
CCOGAFRICA.ORG This is a website targeted towards those in Africa.
CCOGCANADA.CA This is a website targeted towards those in Canada.
CDLIDD.ES La Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios. This is the Spanish language website for the Continuing Church of God.
PNIND.PH Patuloy na Iglesya ng Diyos. This is the Philippines website Continuing Church of God. It has information in English and Tagalog.
CCOG Animations channel. The Continuing Church of God has some animations to teach aspects of Christian beliefs.
CCOGAfrica channel. This has messages from African pastors in African languages such as Kalenjin, Kiswahili, Embu, and Dholuo.
BibleNewsProphecy Podcast. This has audio-visual podcasts of the Bible News Prophecy channgel. It plays on i-Phones, i-Pads, and Windows devices that can play i-Tunes.
Bible News Prophecy online radio. This is an audio version of the Bible News Prophecy videos. It is also available as a mobile app.
Bible News Prophecy channel. Dr. Thiel has produced many YouTube sermonette videos for the BibleNewsProphecy channel. And you can find them there.
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.

Golan Heights (Wikipedia)

COGwriter

BBC reported the following:

22 March 2019

Syria has condemned as “irresponsible” US President Donald Trump’s comments that it was time to recognise Israel’s sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights.

A statement published by the Syrian state news agency said it showed the “blind bias” of the US towards Israel.

It said Syria was determined to recover the area “through all available means”.

Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and annexed it in 1981 in a move not recognised internationally.

Israel wants to contain the military presence of its arch-enemy Iran in Syria, which has grown stronger throughout eight years of conflict.

Mr Trump’s remarks on Thursday overturned decades of US policy on the issue. In a tweet, he said the plateau was of “critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and regional stability!”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked the US president in a phone call, telling him “you’ve made history”.

How did Syria respond?

The statement carried by the Sana news agency said Mr Trump’s comments had shown “contempt” for international law and that they would not change “the reality that the Golan was and will remain Syrian, Arab”.

“The Syrian nation is more determined to liberate this precious piece of Syrian national land through all available means,” the unnamed foreign ministry source added. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-47664529

Back in 2017, it was reported here that a “Golan Liberation Army” plans to takeover part of Israel:

Spokesman For Iran-Backed Iraqi Shi’ite Militia In Syria: ‘We Have Established The Golan Liberation Army’

Hashem Al-Mousawi, the spokesman for the Iran-backed Iraqi Shi’ite militia Al-Nujaba, gave an interview to the Iranian news agency Tasnim, highlighting the militia’s activities in Iraq and Syria. He accused Saudi Arabia and the U.S. of being responsible for ISIS’s actions, stressing that Iran is the only country that has helped his militia. He also said that Iraqi-Saudi relations were like “a failed marriage,” adding that “we do not want a separation between Iran and Iraq.”

Al-Mousawi said that his militia would not allow foreign forces to remain in Mosul, and revealed that the American administration had heavily pressured the Iraqi government to prevent the Shi’ite Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) militia from entering Sunni cities liberated from ISIS. He also said that the U.S. had demanded to appoint a civilian governer in Mosul, but that their demand had been rejected.

Al-Mousawi warned Turkey that if it did not withdraw from Bashiqa in northern Iraq his organization would take military action against it, adding that Al-Nujaba opposes the presence of former Iraqi prime minister Tariq Al-Hashimi – a Sunni currently living in exile – at conferences organized by Turkey to discuss Iraq’s fate.

He also stressed that his militia forces have been in Syria for four years and do not intend to withdraw until after “the terrorists” leave, and expressed fear of ethnic cleansing in the Shi’ite villages of Fu’ah and Kefraya in Syria.

Additionally, Al-Mousawi announced that his militia has established the “Golan Liberation Army,” which he said “comprises special forces that have received training and equipment.” This force, he said, “has detailed plans” for action, but requires the authorization of the Syrian government to be present in the Golan. Al-Mousawi admitted that his militia is directly tied to the PMU and the Iranian resistance axis, and said that the militia was expanding its activity to combat Israel on the Golan Heights because “Israel is fundamentally [responsible for] the destruction of Iraq… and took steps to destroy our infrastructure.” He also warned the Saudi-led Arab coalition in Yemen not to advance on Iran, because Iran is “a powerful country.” …

“We Will Not Allow Foreign Forces To Remain In Mosul..; We Do Not Want A Separation Between Iran And Iraq”

“Saudi-Iraqi ties are like a failed marriage. We hope [the Saudis] officially recognize the political process in Iraq and work with us from that angle. We will not allow foreign forces to remain in Mosul. …

“We Have Created The Golan Liberation Army… If The Syrian Regime Asks Us To, We Are Ready To Act To Liberate The Golan”

“After the recent victories, we created the Golan Liberation Army. This army has been trained and has detailed plans. If the Syria regime asks us to, we are ready to act to liberate the Golan [from Israel] along with our allies. We will not allow Arab and Islamic countries to be smaller in size than Israel…

“The Golan Army comprises special forces who have received training and equipment. They have not [yet] entered any war [against Israel] and have been busy only with ending regional wars. There is a need for authorization from the Syrian government so that the Golan Army can be present there [in the Golan]…

“Regarding the Golan Army, we are part of the PMU, and before that we were part of the resistance [axis]. So long as there is a threat in the region, we will not lay down our weapons.

“Israel is fundamentally [responsible for] Iraq’s destruction. That regime took steps to destroy our infrastructure and scientists. Whether Iraq is on Trump’s list or not, we consider [the U.S.] a supporter of regional terrorism…” 04/05/17 https://www.memri.org/reports/spokesman-iran-backed-iraqi-shiite-militia-syria-we-have-established-golan-liberation-army

Syria clearly wants the Golan Heights back. Officially, it is still at war with Israel.

It may be of interest to note that the Golan Heights basically covers the ancient land of the tribes of Reuben and Gad and part of the tribe of Manasseh.

Ancient Tribes of Israel (Wikipedia)

What about prophecy?

Notice something from a Protestant writer named Craig C. White (not to be confused with the COG Australian Craig M. White):

OK, here is something that you have never considered. The book of Nahum predicts the flooding and destruction of ancient Nineveh. That happened in 612 BC. Today Nineveh is called Mosul in northern Iraq. Mosul is the hometown and headquarters of ISIS. Nahum’s prophecy seems to also apply to Mosul today. A lot of Nahum’s prophecy has already been fulfilled in Mosul.

Now that isn’t even the most curious thing about the book of Nahum. Besides telling us about the destruction and flooding of ancient Nineveh; the book of Nahum also describes the coming in the air of Jesus Christ!!! Jesus comes in a whirlwind and he is HOT!

Nahum 1:3-8 The LORD is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked: the LORD hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet. 4 He rebuketh the sea, and maketh it dry, and drieth up all the rivers: Bashan languisheth, and Carmel, and the flower of Lebanon languisheth. 5 The mountains quake at him, and the hills melt, and the earth is burned at his presence, yea, the world, and all that dwell therein. 6 Who can stand before his indignation? and who can abide in the fierceness of his anger? his fury is poured out like fire, and the rocks are thrown down by him. 7 The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him. 8 But with an overrunning flood he will make an utter end of the place thereof, and darkness shall pursue his enemies.

The land around Jesus will melt and burn. In the verses above, Nahum identifies Bashan, Carmel, and Lebanon. These places all describe the Golan Heights that separate Israel from Syria and Lebanon. retrieved 03/22/19 https://hightimetoawake.com/jesus-will-fight-on-the-golan-heights/

A century ago, a COG leader named G.G. Rupert wrote that Isaiah 17:1-3 was still to be fulfilled–and that is correct.

The old Radio Church of God published the following:

Anciently the Assyrians conquered Egypt and Syria. It is going to happen again (Isaiah 17:3 and Daniel 11:42). …  The entire book of Nahum — one of the so-called Minor Prophets — is devoted to the final punishment of the German-dominated Church-State union yet to arise in Europe. The setting of the prophecy is the original fall of Nineveh about 612 B.C. What happened to Nineveh, the ancient capital of Assyria, was a type of what will happen in our day! Notice that the actual setting of this prophecy is the time of God’s “wrath” — the Day of the Lord (Nahum 1:2, 6). That day of God’s intervention is YET FUTURE. It has not happened yet! (Hoeh H. GERMANY in Prophecy! – Part 2. Plain Truth, January 1963)

The old Radio Church of God essentially believed that ultimately the Beast power would control territories including Syria and perhaps part of the Golan Heights and that Jesus would come and eliminate the Beast power in that area during the Day of the Lord (for when the Day of the Lord can be, see When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? When is the Day of the Lord?).

Plus there are also other prophecies that show that Syria’s capital Damascus will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1; watch also Damascus and Syria in Prophecy)–though by who is not specified in the context, and various COG writers have speculated by whom.

Tensions are rising in the Golan Heights.

Some time this century, Syria’s capital will be destroyed.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar al-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.
Gaza and the Palestinians in Bible Prophecy What does the Bible teach about Gaza and the fate of the Palestinians? Here is a link to a related video: Gaza and Palestine in 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 related YouTube video titled Iran In Prophecy.
Mystery Babylon USA, Mecca, or Rome? The Bible tells of an end-time Mystery Babylon the Great that sits on seven hills. While Catholic and Church of God scholars have identified this as Rome, others point to other cities. Some who profess Christ have pointed to the USA. Some Protestants, like Joel Richardson, have pointed to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Which of these places meets the biblical criteria for ‘Mystery Babylon’? Is there any item of religious importance near the Caelian Hill (Cælius, Celio)? Dr. Thiel answers these questions from the Bible as well as certain historical information. This is a 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?
Ezekiel 38: For Russia & Iran in Our Day? Is Ezekiel 38 about to be fulfilled? A related video is available titled Ezekiel 38: For Russia, Ukraine, & Iran Now? Another could be Russia, Iran, Syria, & the Bible (Code).
Why Terrorism? Is Terrorism Prophesied? What does the Bible teach? Which nations may be affected? Here is a link to a related sermon: Terrorism, Christianity, and Islam.
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.
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? A related video is Will an Arabic Calphiphate Destroy the West?
Libya, Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia in Prophecy What is ahead for North Africa? What does the Bible teach?
How Will Middle East Peace be Brought About? Can humans bring peace to the Middle East? A related video is Middle East Peace? When?
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.
Donald Trump in Prophecy Prophecy, Donald Trump? Are there prophecies that Donald Trump may fulfill? Are there any prophecies that he has already helped fulfill? Is a Donald Trump presidency proving to be apocalyptic? Two related videos are available: Donald: ‘Trump of God’ or Apocalyptic? and Donald Trump’s Prophetic Presidency.
Trump Presidency Magic 8 Ball or Bible Prophecy? BBC reported that one might as well use a ‘Magic Eight-Ball’ to try to predict what will happen in the remaining time of Donald Trump’s presidency. What is a ‘Magic Eight-Ball’? Dr. Thiel not only explains that, but also briefly goes over 10 biblically-based warnings he wrote would happen if Donald Trump were elected that have already began to come to pass. He also goes over something he wrote back in 2008 that the Trump presidency is also helping lead to fulfillment. Should you trust Bible prophecy or not? Dr. Thiel says that Bible prophecy can be trusted, despite the view of skeptics and others that either overlook or despise the Bible. This is a video.
Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse This 188 page book is for people truly interested in prophecies related to Donald Trump and the United States, including learning about several that have already been fulfilled and those that will be fulfilled in the future. The physical book can be purchased at Amazon for $12.99 from the following link: Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse.
Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse-Kindle Edition This electronic version of the 188 page print edition is available for only US$3.99. 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 Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse-Kindle Edition.
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2019, 2020, or 2021? 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 2018 o 2019? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? You can also see the English language sermon videos: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives and Can the Great Tribulation begin before 2020? A shorter and newer video is: Might the Great Tribulation start in 2019?
The Times of the Gentiles Has there been more than one time of the Gentiles? Are we in it now or in the time of Anglo-America? What will the final time of the Gentiles be like? A related sermon is available and is titled: The Times of the Gentiles.
Armageddon Who is involved and when will this gathering happen? Here is also a video from Dr. Thiel, from Tel Megiddo in Israel: Armageddon. Other videos include: Armageddon Will it come on Trump’s watch?, Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy, Freemasonry, Armageddon, and Rome, Is China paving roads to Armageddon?, and Jordan, Petra, and Armageddon.

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COGwriter

Last December, I posted that some believe that UK Prime Minister Theresa May was trying to run out the clock and leave the Parliament with the choice of her proposed Brexit deal or no deal (see Brexit: Is Theresa May playing ‘Deal or No Deal’?).

Well, with a week to go to the original Brexit date, the clock has almost been completely run out. But instead, the UK has asked the EU for an extension. And the EU has agreed to one, but not quite what many in the UK wanted:

March 22, 2019

BRUSSELS (AP) — Extra time has been added to the Brexit countdown clock. The European Union has granted Britain a few more weeks to overcome its political deadlock and chart a smooth road out of the bloc — or change its mind and seek a much longer delay.

Here’s a look at what might happen next:

DEAL OR NO DEAL

With Brexit due in little over a week, British Prime Minister Theresa May came to Brussels seeking a three-month delay so she could salvage her twice-rejected EU divorce deal. Instead, the 27 other EU leaders offered a two-stage “flextension.” If U.K. lawmakers approve the divorce deal agreed between Britain and the bloc, Britain will leave on May 22.

If they defeat it, Britain has until April 12 to tell the EU what it plans to do next: leave without a deal, risking economic chaos, or seek a long delay to Brexit and chart a course toward a softer exit or even remaining in the bloc.

EUROPEAN ELECTIONS

The key factor in the EU’s decision is the election for the European Parliament due to be held May 23-26.

The bloc is adamant Britain must not take part if it is leaving — hence the May 22 cutoff date.

April 12 is the deadline for candidates to be enrolled, so the U.K. must decide before then if it is putting its departure on longer hold, in which case it would participate in the elections. https://www.apnews.com/69f677f54adf49ad95289ec9dfccdc7e

“Deal or No Deal” was the name of a television game show that was popular in the USA and UK for a time. It was essentially a high risk game that was based upon luck. Brexit is more complicated and serious.

The EU does not want the UK to vote in its upcoming election unless it stays in the EU as a normal voting member:

22 March 2019

Mrs May had hoped to persuade the EU to delay the 29 March Brexit date – which is set in law – to 30 June. … But the EU says a further extension beyond 12 April is only possible if the UK agrees to hold European elections on 23 May.

Mrs May has said the UK will not take part in the vote.

The EU’s offer means a no-deal Brexit is considerably less likely on 29 March. But it is not off the table yet and the way forward is far from clear.

What will happen next?

MPs are expected to vote for a third time on the Brexit deal, possibly on Tuesday.

Speaker John Bercow had originally refused a third vote on the deal unless what was put forward must be substantially different to be voted on.

They also have to agree to change the 29 March date to leave the EU. …

EU leaders were reportedly unconvinced by Theresa May’s assurance that she could convince the UK Parliament to back her withdrawal deal. …

French President Emmanuel Macron said he thought she had a chance of 10% of having her deal approved but after listening to her he had cut his estimate to 5%, Reuters news agency said.

European Council President Donald Tusk replied that Mr Macron was being “very optimistic”, it reported. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-47665289

The EU does not believe that the UK Parliament will vote to accept the deal that it has twice rejected.

The EU has also stated before that if the UK withdraws its request to leave the EU that it can stay. Many in the UK do want Brexit cancelled, but many others do not.

Theresa May has indicated that the UK will leave, but she also indicated before she would not accept any extension, yet pleaded for (and sort of got) one yesterday in Brussels. So, it is uncertain what she will do if her deal is not approved (voted against for the third time) next week.

Last December, Euro-skeptic Nigel Farage had strong words about Prime Minister May’s Brexit deal:

“The Worst Deal in History”: Theresa May’s Surrender

December 4, 2018

This “deal” will cost the British taxpayer, £60 billion; require that the British still comply with EU rules without having any say in what those will be, and worst of all, it permits the British to leave the EU only if the EU agrees. As Nigel Farage, former UKIP leader and one of creators of Brexit, asks, “Why should it?”

This “deal” effectively commits the British to subjugation by the EU in perpetuity, with no recourse should the British change their mind. It is a prison. It is also the first step of the EU toward its dream of global governance: unaccountable, untransparent, unelected by the public, and with no way out.

The French will still be able to fish in British waters, and the Spanish will claim that the UK will have to open talks on the sovereignty of Gibraltar. As Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has said, “Once the UK has left the EU, Gibraltar’s political, legal and even geographic relationship with the EU will go through Spain…”

New trade barriers would also be put in place between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, fundamentally undermining the constitutional and economic integrity of the United Kingdom.

This “deal” is, in reality, a sell-out. Farage has described it as “The worst deal in history”; even more wretched, as he points out, is that — as one cannot leave it without the EU’s permission — it offers Britain even less sovereignty than it has now. …

There must be no “deal” — apart from the one for which the British voted and were repeatedly promised (falsely as it turns out) would be honoured. 12/04/19 https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/13360/brexit-no-deal

While I would not agree that Theresa May has been pushing “the worst deal in history,” there are obviously many issues that many have about it. And it was defeated by what may have been the highest margin ever in the British Parliament.

I have been warning for some time that Northern Ireland would be a major issue with Brexit, and it clearly is as that is the main issue brought forth for NOT accepting the deal that Theresa May agreed to.

Yet, once again, Theresa May seems to hope that given the option of her deal or no deal, that Parliament will choose her route.

She is playing a high stakes political game.

A no deal Brexit is often referred to as a hard Brexit.

Many who voted for a Brexit seem to prefer a hard Brexit to Theresa May’s deal.

However, most in Parliament do not seem to want the UK to exit the European Union, so some like at least aspects of Theresa May’s deal.

Even if there is a ‘hard’ (no deal with the EU) or ‘soft’ (May’s proposal) Brexit. or even if there is NO Brexit, all this Brexit talk has upset the Europeans and they will not forgive and forget.

Consider that the Bible itself teaches that Europe will reorganize and unite (Revelation 17:12-13; see also Must the Ten Kings of Revelation 17:12 Rule over Ten Currently Existing Nations?), as well as become the dominant world trading power for a time (Revelation 17 & 18). The Bible also teaches of a time of Jacob’s trouble (Jeremiah 30:7)–and this will include the UK (as well as the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand).

Europe is not going to ‘get over’ the Brexit and will one day take actions that most of those in the UK (as well as USA and Canada) will not consider possible (cf. Daniel 8:24-25, 11:39; see also USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses).

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Brexit and the fate of Northern Ireland, Gibraltar, the UK, and the USA On April 29, 2017, 27 of the nations of the European Union agreed to certain guidelines for the negotiations with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland which gave its notice to leave on March 29, 2017. These guidelines are contrary to what the UK wants. Does the EU intend the UK to pay a price for leaving the EU? What does Spain want? What does the Republic of Ireland want? Will Northern Ireland and Gibraltar eventually fall under European control? Will the UK and USA be conquered? What does the Bible teach? Dr. Thiel answer these questions and more in this video.
Forbes’ Brexit Monster is the Beast of Revelation Various ones have been properly convinced that there is a plan for a European superstate. Forbes’ writer Tom Worstall wrote that the Brexit vote was about the United Kingdom “not joining the monster of the European Union to come.” The Bible tells of a Beast monster that will arise in the end times in Europe. Dr. Thiel cites news reports, as well as the Old and New Testaments, to show that the monster many fear will arise in Europe, despite the vote by the British to exit the European Union. This is a video.
Will the UK Lose Gibraltar and the Falkland Islands? For many years, the major sea gates of the world were possessed/controlled by the United States (Panama Canal and certain locations in the Pacific ocean) and the British Empire (Straits of Malacca, Singapore, Suez Canal, Bab el Mandeb, Strait of Hormuz, Simon’s Town/Cape of Good Hope, Malta, etc.), and many are no longer under their control. Spain wants Gibraltar and Argentina wants the Falklands (also known as the Malvinas). UK Prime Minister David Cameron says the UK will defend the Falklands Gibraltar. Does the Bible give clues as to what will happen with those ‘sea gates’? Do promises made the Jacob’s mother Rebekah play a role? What about Deuteronomy 28? This is a video.
Post Brexit Prophecy On June 23, 2016, the voters of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK) chose to leave the European Union. Now with this BRitish EXIT (Brexit) vote, what is prophesied to happen to the UK? Will the UK do well or be taken over and made slaves? Dr. Thiel explains from biblical prophecies what is ahead for the UK, Europe, and even the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This is a video.
Will the UK Lose Gibraltar and the Falkland Islands? Spain wants Gibraltar and Argentina wants the Falklands (also known as the Malvinas). Does the Bible give clues as to what will happen with these ‘sea gates’? A version of the article in the Spanish language would be ¿Perderá el Reino Unido a Gibraltar y las Islas Falkland (Malvinas)?
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: Are Chinese threats against Australia for real?
Will the Anglo-Saxon-Celtic 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?
British are the Covenant People What do ‘British’ and ‘Britain’ mean in Hebrew? Are the descendants of the Anglo-Saxons people of the covenant? Does the British royal family connect to the throne of David? What does the Bible teach? What does history show us? Is there any DNA evidence related to British-Israelism? When did Christianity make it to the British Isles? Could Jeremiah have made it to the British Isles? What type of Christians made it to the British Isles? Did the last King of England believe in British Israelism?
Catholic Prophecies: Do They Mirror, Highlight, or Contradict Biblical Prophecies? People of all faiths may be surprised to see what various Roman and Orthodox Catholic prophets have been predicting as many of their predictions will be looked to in the 21st century.
USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses Can you point to scriptures, like Daniel 11:39, that point to the USA in the 21st century? This article does. A related sermon is titled: Do these 7 prophesies point to the end of the USA?
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no Final End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West? Here is a version in the Spanish language: ¿Quién es el Rey del Occidente? ¿Por qué no hay un Rey del Occidente en la profecía del tiempo del fin?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? 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.
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. A related sermon is titled Ten Kings of Revelation and the Great Tribulation.
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?