Church of God News

COGwriter

James Malm posted the following today:

Isaiah 4

The tribulation will be especially hard on the men and very many will die, leaving only one man for every seven women.  At the end of the tribulation perhaps God will relax the marriage of monogamy for a short time out of mercy or the people.

I disagree and do not believe that God will “relax monagamy” then.  While the Bible records that various ones have been involved with polygamy, that does not mean that God has or will endorse it.

4 And He answered and said to them, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,’ 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:4-6)

The late Herbert W. Armstrong had an article about polygamy.  Here are some passages from it:

 GOD DID NOT sanction polygamy in Old Testament times. Contrary to the suppositions many have accepted, God FORBADE IT — and PUNISHED for it!..

Also Israelites practiced what God had forbidden — divorce and remarriage. On this, Jesus said: “Moses (NOT GOD) because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery” (Matt. 19:8-9) GOD has NEVER legalized divorce and remarriage. It is not allowable today.

Jesus said, in this same connection: “Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female?” Notice, Jesus was dating this from the BEGINNING. And God NEVER CHANGES! “And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?” Notice, a man shall cleave to his WIFE — NOT WIVES. And they TWO — not he and several wives — shall be one flesh.

“What therefore GOD hath joined together, let not man put asunder” (Matt. 19:4-6). It is what GOD joins together. That is the definition of MARRIAGE. God does not join together one man with plural women! Any woman a man may “marry” according to man’s codes, in addition to the wife GOD joined him to, is NOT his wife, so long as his real wife lives. Any additional women, whether in polygamy, or by divorce one at a time, is plain ADULTERY! GOD never joins the second, let alone the additional “wives.” They are NOT truly wives — they are adulteresses, and the man becomes an adulterer. THIS BREAKS GOD’S LAW. IT IS SIN.

Jesus thus put us straight on monogamous marriage.

God made ONE wife for Adam — not a harem! He started the human family out as He ordained they SHOULD go — a family of ONE man and ONE wife!

And, remember, God gave this absolute COMMAND regarding future kings of Israel — telling them they must not do as the pagan nations around them (whose kings had their harems): “NEITHER SHALL HE MULTIPLY WIVES TO HIMSELF!” Saul, Israel’s first king, DISOBEYED that command. He let demons take hold of him.

God deposed him, and put David in his place. David started out in polygamy, but God punished him. HE REPENTED thoroughly, and he finished his reign with his ONLY living wife. Solomon finished his life in polygamy and idolatry — and God, in punishment, rended the KINGDOM away from his son, Rehoboam.

GOD DID NOT CONDONE POLYGAMY! He PUNISHED those who practised it! It was ALWAYS SIN! It is SIN today!

Polygamy is not God’s way, nor will it be God’s way in the millennium.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

God Created Marriage Some falsely claim that God did not create marriage and that fornication is fine. What does the Bible really teach?
Why Marriage? Soon Obsolete? This is a booklet from Herbert Armstrong on this important topic.
Here’s the Plain Truth About OLD TESTAMENT POLYGAMY by Herbert Armstrong.  He explains various passages in the Old Testament and New about why polygamy is not God’s way.
Love, Marriage, and Sex It is important to get them in the right order.
Five Rules for Effective Parenting Do you know that there are five simple rules that can make you a more effective parent? There is also a 12 1/2 minute YouTube video on this, also titled Five Rules for Effective Parenting.
What Psychologists do not Know About Child Rearing This is an article by Herbert Armstrong that was used as the introduction to the pdf booklet The Plain Truth About Child Rearing.
The Plain Truth About Child Rearing This is a pdf booklet that the old WCG put out.
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?
Was the Commandment to Love the Only Command? Some have stated that John’s writings teach this, but is that what the Bible really says?
The Ten Commandments and the Early Church Did Jesus and the Early Church keep the ten commandments? What order were they in? Here are quotes from the Bible and early writings.
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?

COGwriter

The Eurozone nations had a disappointing announcement about unemployment rates:

May 31, 2013

LONDON — Unemployment in the eurozone has reached a new record high according to figures published Friday. Nearly 20 million people are out of work.

Nicola Massarelli is from Eurostat, the European Commission’s statistics office. He said, “The unemployment rates are the highest in this time series. Unemployment has been going up since the beginning of 2008 constantly until now.”…

According to the figures published Friday, the eurozone’s overall jobless rate is now at 12.2 percent. In the 12 months up until April, 1.6 million people lost their jobs.

But the numbers show that there is great disparity across the 17-nation bloc.  http://www.voanews.com/content/eurozone-jobless-rate-hits-new-high/1672101.html

This rise in unemployment is not good news for the Eurozone nor actual the European Union.

Various parts of Europe have had civil unrest in the past.  Europe’s high unemployment very well may bring civil unrest, including rioting, to parts of Europe this summer.

For quite some time, I have been warning that it is highly likely that riots and civil unrest likely involving a combination of Islamic and economic issues would happen.  They will later propel a European leader to rise up. The final leader will be the one known as the Beast (Revelation 13:3-4) and final King of the North (Daniel 11:22-44) of Bible prophecy.

Additionally, about four years ago, I wrote :

The Bible shows that prior to the real age of peace, a warring ecumenical religion will take over much of the world through force and economic blackmail (Revelation 13:2–17). And this is warring age will come to an abrupt end when God orchestrates it (Revelation 18:17–20)…

Some believe that God will punish the nominal Catholics with civil unrest and war in Europe. As there already has been civil unrest in Europe (and according to secular sources, more is expected), it is possible that the following (to some degree) also may come to pass:..

Monk Hilarion (15^th century): “The people of the peninsula of Europe will suffer by needless wars…”

Brother Louis Rocco (19th century): “All over Europe there will rage terrible civil wars…A Great Monarch will arise after a period of terrible wars and persecutions in Europe.”

Some believe this civil unrest will result in the rise of a militaristic leader who will quell that particular violence, establish a new religious order, and reign with a pope who will perform miracles…

One interesting 15^th century Catholic prophecy foretells a time when a “great prince” will rise up. “All Germany” will apparently convert to the ecumenical religion, and then massive conversions in “all countries” “will happen quickly…

The descriptions of the Great Monarch/Prince in many ways parallel the description of one the Bible refers to as the “prince” in Daniel 9:26–27, final “King of the North” in Daniel 11:27–45…

Additionally, in my book Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term, I wrote:

Revelation 13:3-4 also supports the idea that the Beast may rise up because of violent civil unrest in Europe.

World events are aligning with prophecy.

As I have been writing for years, there will be ups and downs in Europe until the final European beast power rises up. And there will be ethnic and religious tension.

The Bible is clear that although there will be problems with the unnatural combination that we now call Europe, that it still will rise up. Notice:

40 And the fourth kingdom shall be as strong as iron, inasmuch as iron breaks in pieces and shatters everything; and like iron that crushes, that kingdom will break in pieces and crush all the others. 41 Whereas you saw the feet and toes, partly of potter’s clay and partly of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; yet the strength of the iron shall be in it, just as you saw the iron mixed with ceramic clay. 42 And as the toes of the feet were partly of iron and partly of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong and partly fragile. 43 As you saw iron mixed with ceramic clay, they will mingle with the seed of men; but they will not adhere to one another, just as iron does not mix with clay. 44 And in the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever. 45 Inasmuch as you saw that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it broke in pieces the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver, and the gold — the great God has made known to the king what will come to pass after this. The dream is certain, and its interpretation is sure. (Daniel 2:40-45)

Notice that according to what it written in the Book of Daniel, a kingdom will arise that does not adhere well together–yet that it is certain to rise up anyway. Also notice that afterwards, the Kingdom of God will come and that the kingdoms of the world will be destroyed–and that is sure.

The types of protests and riots in Europe will likely have ups and downs.  And it is almost certain that because of protests and other forms of civil unrest, that the Europeans will ultimately be more willing to accept the type of militaristic leader that the Bible teaches will lead the final beast empire (Revelation 13:1-4).

And this is despite the fact that to the outside world (as well as to Europeans themselves) the rise of the final Beast power will be partly strong and partly fragile. Many see Europe as fragile, and while they have a point, the Bible indicates that final human kingdom will rise up anyway (though the Kingdom of God will ultimately replace it).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European? The Book of Revelation tells of a beast power that will rise up. Some think that this must be Russia or could be Islamic, while others say that this power is European. The Book of Daniel tells of the rise of an end time King of the North that some think must be referring to a Russian leader, while others say that this power is European. How can you be sure? This YouTube video has all the scriptural proofs that you should need to prove that this power must be a European one.
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?
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.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Is Sweden made up of one of those tribes? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
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?
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? True religion should be based upon the true gospel.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

MiG 29 Jet

COGwriter

Russian weapons possibly coming to Syria are in the news:

May 31, 2013

Russian media is reporting that an arms industry source says Russia has not yet delivered anti-aircraft missiles to Syria and may not do so for several months.

The source told the Russian news agency Interfax any delivery of the advanced S-300 air defense system missiles would be made no earlier than September.

On Thursday, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad hinted he had received new weapons from Russia and threatened retaliation against Israel if it carries out future airstrikes on his country.  http://www.voanews.com/content/confident-assad-hints-at-new-russian-weapons-shipment/1671990.html

May 31, 2013

The United States and Germany warned Russia not to provide embattled President Bashar Al-Assad’s regime with an advanced air defense system that they believe could prolong Syria’s civil war.

Secretary of State John Kerry, speaking after talks with his German counterpart, Guido Westerwelle, said Russia’s transfer of the S-300 missiles was not “not helpful” and could “endanger” efforts of both Washington and Moscow to get the Syrian government and opposition into peace negotiations.  http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/05/31/U-S-Germany-tell-Russia-Don-t-send-Assad-missiles.html

May 31, 2013

Russia is selling more than 10 fighter jets to the Syrian regime, MiG corporation CEO Sergei Korotkov said on Friday. A Syrian delegation was currently in the Russian capital to sort out the contract details, he said.

The MiG-29MM2 jets will be delivered accordingly, Mr. Korotkov told journalists in Lukhovitzy outside Moscow, Interfax news agency reported.  http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/world/russia-to-sell-mig-fighter-jets-to-syria/article4769201.ece

Israel allegedly has plans to eliminate Syria if these Russian supplied missiles are used (see Israel allegedly tells Russia it will bring down the Syrian Assad Regime if attacked). It has also indicated that it may simply decide to eliminate those missiles shortly after they arrive:

Israel vows to stop Syria’s S-300 missile shield from becoming operational

Netanyahu tells European foreign ministers that if the Russian missile systems get into Syria, Israel’s ‘entire airspace will become a no-fly zone’ and therefore it ‘cannot stand idly by.’   http://english.ruvr.ru/news/2013_05_30/Israel-vows-to-stop-Syria-s-S-300-missile-shield-from-becoming-operational-4653/

While the USA and Europeans are warning the Russians about the missiles, directly or indirectly, they are arming the opposition to Assad.

As I have mentioned in the past, the military situation in Syria will intensify.  And the announcement of the sale of 10 more fighter jets to Syria by Russia is another step proving that.

Does this mean that Ezekiel 38 and 39 are about to be fulfilled?

Certain Protestant prophecy watchers seem to believe that this type of Russian involvement in the Middle East is about to set the stage for the fulfillment of Ezekiel 38 and 39.

Furthermore, some also consider that Russia is the King of the North of Daniel 11.

For one example, Ewiak Ryszard that claims that Russia is the King of the North.  Ewiak Ryszard wrote:

Daniel 11:28
“And (he) [“the king of the north”] will go back (to) his land with great wealth; and his heart (will be) against the holy covenant; and will act effectively; and turned back to his own land.” (literal translation)…

Daniel foretells here that “the king of the north” [Russia] will not only be successful in WW II, but also that he returns to his land with a great amount of goods…

The above writing, however, simply does not agree with modern reality and what Ezekiel 38:1-13 teaches (quoted later in this post).

Ewiak Ryszard also wrote the following in his essay:

Daniel 11:44,45
Russia again will attack Israel.

Now, this is a biblical problem tying this in with Daniel 11:44-45.

Why?

Because Daniel 11:44 teaches the following about the King of the North:

44 But news from the east and the north shall trouble him; therefore he shall go out with great fury to destroy and annihilate many (Daniel 11:44, NKJV).

Notice that the King of the North is troubled by news from the east and the north.  Thus, it would appear that Russia cannot be the King of the North as there are no nations that are north of Russia.  But as Russia is north of Europe, Europe geographically better fits Daniel 11:44.

Furthermore, as Israel is also not east nor north of Russia (it is south and slightly west), Ewiak Ryszard’s assertions about it and Daniel 11:44-45 are in error.

Here is another passage from Ewiak Ryszard’s essay:

Ezekiel wrote that after “Gog’s” last attack he will fall and then be buried by the people. (Ez.39:4,11)

But that does not square with scripture for the King of the North.  Notice that the Bible shows that the last time Gog attempts to attack is after the 1000 year millennium (which happens after there is no King of the North of Daniel 11):

7 Now when the thousand years have expired, Satan will be released from his prison 8 and will go out to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea. 9 They went up on the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. And fire came down from God out of heaven and devoured them (Revelation 20:7-9).

(In another place, Ewiak Ryszard’s essay correctly shows the millennium coming after the King of the North’s attacks and after Armageddon, but he does not seem to see his other writings as a problem.)

Also notice what happens in Ezekiel 39:

39:1 “And you, son of man, prophesy against Gog, and say, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “Behold, I am against you, O Gog, prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal; 2 and I will turn you around and lead you on, bringing you up from the far north, and bring you against the mountains of Israel. 3 Then I will knock the bow out of your left hand, and cause the arrows to fall out of your right hand. 4 You shall fall upon the mountains of Israel, you and all your troops and the peoples who are with you; I will give you to birds of prey of every sort and to the beasts of the field to be devoured. 5 You shall fall on the open field; for I have spoken,” says the Lord GOD. 6 And I will send fire on Magog and on those who live in security in the coastlands. Then they shall know that I am the LORD (Ezekiel 39:1-6).

Thus asserting that Ezekiel 38 and 39 refers to the King of the North is in error. The tie to Revelation 20, after the 1000 year millennium, makes much more sense.

In Ewiak Ryszard’s essay he specifically claims:

Ezekiel Chapter 38 and 39 = Daniel 11:45 …

But Daniel 11:45 states this about the King of the North:

45 And he shall plant the tents of his palace between the seas and the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and no one will help him (Daniel 11:45).

The description in Daniel 11:45 is not the same as what is in Ezekiel 38 and 39.  In Ezekiel 38 and 39 Gog/Magog is helped by “many” (Ezekiel 38:6,15) “peoples” (Ezekiel 39:4), which is not the case of the King of the North in Daniel 11:45.

Thus, Ewiak Ryszard’s assertion that “Ezekiel Chapter 38 and 39 = Daniel 11:45” is not accurate (for details on Russia in prophecy, including explanations of the timing of Russia’s roles in Ezekiel 38 and 39, please see the article Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future.)

Notice that the Bible clearly states there is a group from the far north:

3 O Gog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal…6 from the far north and all its troops–many people are with you (Ezekiel 38:3,6).

14 Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say to Gog…15…you will come from your place out of the far north… (Ezekiel 38:14-15).

1 O Gog, prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal; 2 and I will turn you around and lead you on, bringing you up from the far north (Ezekiel 39:1-2).

A Russian confederation is that only place on the planet that is in the far north and currently has massive military power. A northern confederation (that appears to be led by Russia and probably includes the far north and far east/Pacific coast portion of Asia) will destroy the European Babylon. The following passage may also apply:

9 For behold, I will raise and cause to come up against Babylon
An assembly of great nations from the north country,
And they shall array themselves against her;
From there she shall be captured.
Their arrows shall be like those of an expert warrior;
None shall return in vain. (Jeremiah 50:9)

Babylon of Revelation and Jeremiah 50:9 is a European power.  The King of the North in Daniel 11:22-45 is a European power (here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?).

Please carefully read the following:

10 ‘Thus says the Lord God: “On that day it shall come to pass that thoughts will arise in your mind, and you will make an evil plan: 11 You will say, ‘I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people, who dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates’ —  12 to take plunder and to take booty, to stretch out your hand against the waste places that are again inhabited, and against a people gathered from the nations, who have acquired livestock and goods, who dwell in the midst of the land. 13 Sheba, Dedan, the merchants of Tarshish, and all their young lions will say to you, ‘Have you come to take plunder? Have you gathered your army to take booty, to carry away silver and gold, to take away livestock and goods, to take great plunder?'”‘ (Ezekiel 38:1-13)

Even though certain Protestant writers/preachers claim that Ezekiel 38 will be fulfilled either now or prior to the time that the seven-year deal of Daniel 9:27 is fulfilled, this is not the correct time period. The tiny modern nation of Israel simply does not have enough gold or silver that Russia and its allies would want to attack it to take away “great plunder” (Ezekiel 38:13)Furthermore, Israel is not now a “land of unwalled villages” with “a peaceful people” who “dwell safely” (Ezekiel 38:10-11)–nor will it be until after Jesus’ Kingdom gets established on the earth.

Russia is not the King of the North of Daniel 11 and Ezekiel 38 & 39 are not to be fulfilled for over one thousand years.

That being said, while Russia is not about to be the final King of the North of Daniel 11, there will be problems in Syria.  Damascus, Syria’s capital will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1).  And the Russian arms could be a factor as they could escalate tensions and embolden Syrian government confidence.

“And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!” (Mark 13:37).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European? The Book of Revelation tells of a beast power that will rise up. Some think that this must be Russia or could be Islamic, while others say that this power is European. The Book of Daniel tells of the rise of an end time King of the North that some think must be referring to a Russian leader, while others say that this power is European. How can you be sure? This YouTube video has all the scriptural proofs that you should need to prove that this power must be a European one.
Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism? Was the millennium (sometimes called chiliasm) taught by early Christians? Who condemned it? Will Jesus literally reign for 1000 years on the earth? Is this time near?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2021 or 20xx?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2013, 2014, or 2015? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? See also the video Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2013?
Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi? What does the Bible say?
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?
Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar Assad hold power as he has it? Does the Bible show that Damascus, the capital of Syria, will be destroyed? What will happen to Syria? Will the Syrians support the final King of the South that the Bible tells will rise up? Which scriptures discuss the rise and fall of an Arabic confederation? Does Islamic prophecy predict the destruction of Syria.
The Muslim Brotherhood and the Rise of the King of the South The Bible tells of the formation of a power of nations that are in the Middle East and North Africa that are part of the final “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40-43) The Muslim Brotherhood wishes to have an Islamic empire with basically the same nations. This YouTube video explains what to expect from such a confederation.
Is There an Islamic Antichrist? Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.
Jerusalem: Past, Present, and Future What does the Bible say about Jerusalem and its future? Is Jerusalem going to be divided and eliminated? Is Jesus returning to the area of Jerusalem? There is also a related YouTube video you can watch titled Jerusalem To be divided and eliminated.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North?

Non-GMO and GMO-Breeding for Plants

COGwriter

Although ‘experts’ have claimed that there is no GMO wheat in the food supply, the USA government now has reason to doubt that (note bolding below is from me):

WASHINGTON — A strain of genetically engineered wheat never approved for sale or consumption by authorities was found sprouting on a farm in Oregon, the U.S. Agriculture Department said on Wednesday.

The wheat was developed years ago by biotechnology company Monsanto Co. but never put into use because of worldwide opposition to genetically engineered wheat…

Roughly half of the U.S. wheat crop is exported and most of the crop is used in making food such as breads, pastries, cookies and noodles. USDA officials said the Food and Drug Administration determined years ago there is no health risk to humans from the strain, though.

“Hopefully, our trading partners will be very understanding,” Michael Scuse, the acting U.S. deputy agriculture secretary, said at a briefing with reporters.

Scuse said trading partners and major customers for U.S. wheat had been informed of the discovery over the past day.

Genetically modified crops cannot be grown legally in the United States unless the government approves them after a review to ensure they pose no threat to the environment or to people.

Monsanto entered four strains of glyphosate-resistant wheat for U.S. approval in the 1990s but there was no final decision by regulators because the company decided there was no market.

The genetically modified wheat sprouted this spring on an Oregon farm, in a field that grew winter wheat in 2012.

When the farmer sprayed the so-called “volunteer” plants with a glyphosate herbicide, some of them unexpectedly survived. Samples were then sent to Oregon State University and to USDA for analysis…

Scuse and Michael Firko, who oversees USDA’s biotechnology approval process, said USDA was investigating how the strain appeared on the farm when no seeds should have been available for several years.

“I think it will have a significant impact,” said Ronnie Cummins, national director of the Organic Consumers Association, which battled to keep genetically modified wheat out of the marketplace years ago.

The U.S. Senate last week rejected by a wide margin a measure to allow states to order labeling of food made with genetically engineered, or GE, crops. Cummins said the discovery of the rogue plants in Oregon would accelerate efforts to require GE food labels.  http://www.voanews.com/content/us-unapproved-genetically-modified-wheat-oregon/1670962.html

There are many, many risks with GMO crops.  Notice that this crop allegedly occurred because “some of them unexpectedly survived.”

No matter what the USA government or other officials claim, there is no humanly possible way to guarantee that genetically-modified organisms ” no threat to the environment or to people.”

The fact that this GMO strain of wheat survived when presumably USA government and/or Monsanto scientists did not think that it could is further proof (there have been other “unexpected” incidents as well).

While the supposed intent of GMOs is to increase the food supply and provide crops that are resistant to pesticides, the reality is that the GMO thrust is essentially based upon lust for profits.

10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. (1 Timothy 6:10)

The production of GMO crops places massive amounts of the food supply at risk for destruction. While in nature, there is variety of crops, with GMO-crops there is a uniformity that is unnatural. This uniformity puts the entire crop at risk as if one plant succumbs to a pesticide, the entire crop is susceptible as well–this can lead to famines. Paul told Timothy that love of money can cause many sorrows. Notice that Jesus told of famines were one of the sorrows that would come:

8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows. (Mark 13:8)

Now, well some claim that GMO-crops are resistant to various pests, the reality is that about two years ago, Monsanto learned that its corn that was supposed to be resistant to a root pest was, in fact, susceptible to it (see Pestilence Issues and Genetically-Modified Corn). The scientists there hope to work around this, but the time will come that disasters and troubles will result in famines and I have long suspected that GMOs would be part of the reason.  If the USA ever does also rely on GMO wheat as its main wheat and bread source, you can almost guarantee that will end in disaster for the USA.

Thousands of years ago, God inspired one of his prophets to pen the following, which encourages people to eat what is good:

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

Intentionally eating GMOs, in my view, is not good.  But as official policy, the US government does not want to let consumers know if they are buying GMO foods.  Furthermore, Monsanto has been given legal protection should its GMO crops cause problems (H.R. 933 includes pro-GMO provision that some call ‘Monsanto Protection Act’).  This is not good either.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Physical Preparation Scriptures for Christians. We all know the Bible prophecies famines. Should we do something?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2013, 2014, or 2015? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? See also the video Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2013?

“I will break the pride of your power” (Leviticus 26:19)

COGwriter

Household wealth in the USA has still not recovered to pre-recession levels according to a new report from the Federal Reserve.  Here is one news report about that:

May 30, 2013

American households have rebuilt less than half of the wealth lost during the recession, leaving them without the spending power to fuel a robust economic recovery, according to a new analysis from the Federal Reserve.  http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/americans-have-rebuilt-less-than-half-of-wealth-lost-to-the-recession-study-says/2013/05/30/7d29a878-c930-11e2-8da7-d274bc611a47_story.html

Here are some quotes from the Federal Reserve report:

Household balance sheets were severely affected during the financial crisis and ensuing recession . According to the Federal Reserve’s triennial Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF)—the most comprehensive examination of household balance sheets—average household wealth declined 15 percent between 2007 and 2010, while median household wealth dropped 39 percent..

Although many subgroups experienced large declines, the Fed’s survey suggests that families that were younger, that had less than a college education and/or were members of a historically disadvantaged minority group (African-Americans or Hispanics of any race) suffered particularly large wealth losses (Figure 1) . 1 Even before the crisis, younger, less- educated and historically disadvantaged minority families were known to be among the most economically vulnerable groups because of the particular occupations and sectors in which they were overrepresented, such as low-wage service-sector jobs and construction . What was not well-known— but which we document here—is that families in these economically vulnerable groups often also had very risky balance sheets going into the crisis.

Without going into all the details, the situation is much worse than it appears from the Federal Reserve report.

Why?

Because the “recovery” has been financed by more direct and indirect US government debt than any in the history of humanity and the USA seems to feel it needs to continue in that direction (e.g. Fed’s Bernanke wants currency debasement program to continue).

This means than a lot even what wealth is left, has actually been debased.  Ultimately the US dollar will truly crash.

Until then, it means that economic recoveries will be shaky and that many people will likely not handle the next downturn as well.  Furthermore, various tax and other policies from Washington, D.C. are further discouraging the accumulation and preservation of wealth.  That too, does not bode well for the economy of the USA.

Unless the USA changes, it will be doomed. However, Jesus will return a few years after that and establish the Kingdom of God. Until then, work, pray, and try to best manage whatever household wealth you may have.  Whether you are in the USA or not.

Some items of possibly related interest may include the following:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Taxes What caused the descendants of Israel to pay taxes? Should Christians pay taxes? Here is a link to a YouTube video Should Christians Pay Taxes?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? There is also a YouTube video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves?
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? You can also see a YouTube video sermon The Gospel of the Kingdom.
Just What Do You Mean the Kingdom of God? A booklet that was written by Herbert Armstrong answers questions about the Kingdom.
Did The Early Church Teach Millenarianism? Was the millennium (sometimes called chiliasm) taught by early Christians? Who condemned it? Will Jesus literally reign for 1000 years on the earth? Is this time near?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2019 or 202x?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad (Source: Agência Brasil, Wikipedia)

COGwriter

Syria is in the news on several militaristic fronts today:

May 30, 2103

.

“Syria has received the first shipment of Russian anti-aircraft S-300 rockets,” Al-Manar quoted Assad as saying. The Syrian leader added: “All our agreements with Russia will be implemented and parts of them have already been implemented.”…

The shipment of the missiles, if confirmed, comes just days after the European Union lifted an arms embargo on Syria, paving way for individual countries of the 27-member bloc to send weapons to rebels fighting to topple Assad’s regime.

CBS News has reached out to Russian officials to confirm the shipment, but they are saying nothing.  http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57586798/assad-first-russian-missile-shipment-now-in-syria/

May 30, 2013

Lebanese Hezbollah media is quoting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as saying the first shipment of an advanced Russian air defense system has been delivered to his country.Assad’s comments were released Thursday by Al-Manar, a Lebanese media outlet owned by the pro-Assad militant group Hezbollah.There was no independent verification or Russian comment. But if confirmed, the delivery of the sophisticated S-300 anti-aircraft missiles would represent a major upgrade to Syria’s air defenses.Syria’s ally Russia has promised to go ahead with the long-delayed sale of the missiles, saying it would help prevent intervention by foreign forces.There was no public comment from Israel, where defense chief Moshe Yaalon suggested this week that Israel may take out the S-300s if they are delivered.Israel is concerned its airspace could be within the range of the surface-to-air missiles. It could also limit its ability to carry out airstrikes in Syria to stop weapons shipments bound for Hezbollah.

Analysts say the flow of additional weapons into Syria could complicate the U.S.- and Russian-proposed peace talks aimed at ending the 26-month conflict.  http://www.voanews.com/content/un-chief-progess-slow-on-syria-peace-talks/1671183.html

Israel allegedly has plans to eliminate Syria if these Russian supplied missiles are used (see Israel allegedly tells Russia it will bring down the Syrian Assad Regime if attacked).  It has also indicated that it may simply decide to eliminate those missiles before they could be used.

It is not just the arrival (or suspected arrival) of missiles that are complicating peace talks.  Europe is sending some military support to the Syrian opposition, who wants the equipment immediately. Notice the following three headlines:

Syria’s opposition urges EU to send arms to rebels

EU move to arm Syria rebels shows war will escalate

Many in Middle East oppose EU decision on Syria arms embargo

Some in also Europe have concerns about what this means for the EU (see EU official seemingly blaming UK for making ‘peace organisation’ EU a warring organization because of Syria).

Furthermore, the Syrian National Coalition (SNC), the leading opposition group in Syria, stated that it will not participate in them anyway until Assad is gone or says he will leave:

May 30, 2013

ISTANBUL: Syria’s main opposition group said Thursday it will not take part in proposed US-Russia peace talks while key allies of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime are waging war alongside government forces.

“The National Coalition will not take part in any international conference or any such efforts so long as the militias of Iran and Hezbollah continue their invasion of Syria,” the opposition’s acting chief George Sabra told reporters in Istanbul…

Government troops and Hezbollah fighters have been battling for more than a week to retake Qusayr from rebel hands.

Rebel sources say the army has also made new advances east of Damascus in the past week, in a bid to crush the rebellion there.  http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/May-30/218903-syria-opposition-says-no-peace-talks-until-hezbollah-iran-halt-invasion.ashx#ixzz2UmaXxkLj

May 30, 2013

Syria’s opposition is demanding a deadline for Bashar al-Assad to leave power if it is to attend proposed international peace talks.

Meeting in Istanbul Wednesday, opposition leaders say they want “binding international guarantees,” including what they call the “removal of the head of the regime” and its military command.

Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Mollem says the Assad government is willing to attend the talks with no preconditions.

Plans for the U.S.-Russian sponsored conference are still not firm. Russia is demanding that Iran be allowed to come, which France says it is unacceptable. It is also not clear who will represent the Syrian government and the opposition is in disarray, with separate groups inside and outside Syria clashing over leadership.  http://www.voanews.com/content/syrian-opposition-demands-assad-departure/1671239.html

Since the Bible suggests that Syria will support the coming final King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:1-8), a change in or from the Assad regime will be necessary for this to happen–and it will come to pass. Syria’s Assad will either change, break his prior public commitment to not step down or go into exile, or die. He will not keep Syria as he has forever.

The military situation in Syria will intensify.

More trouble is coming to Syria. Damascus (Syria’s capital) will be destroyed:

1 The burden against Damascus.

“Behold, Damascus will cease from being a city,
And it will be a ruinous heap. (Isaiah 17:1).

Damascus will be destroyed and Syria will change.

An Islamic confederation that will include the land of Syria is coming (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:1-8; Psalm 83:4-8) is coming. Russian missiles and possible peace talks will not change that.

“And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!” (Mark 13:37).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi? What does the Bible say?
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?
Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar Assad hold power as he has it? Does the Bible show that Damascus, the capital of Syria, will be destroyed? What will happen to Syria? Will the Syrians support the final King of the South that the Bible tells will rise up? Which scriptures discuss the rise and fall of an Arabic confederation? Does Islamic prophecy predict the destruction of Syria.
The Muslim Brotherhood and the Rise of the King of the South The Bible tells of the formation of a power of nations that are in the Middle East and North Africa that are part of the final “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40-43) The Muslim Brotherhood wishes to have an Islamic empire with basically the same nations. This YouTube video explains what to expect from such a confederation.
Is There an Islamic Antichrist? Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.
Jerusalem: Past, Present, and Future What does the Bible say about Jerusalem and its future? Is Jerusalem going to be divided and eliminated? Is Jesus returning to the area of Jerusalem? There is also a related YouTube video you can watch titled Jerusalem To be divided and eliminated.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North?

COGwriter

China has admitted that it is preparing for cyberwarfare and plans to conduct drills in June 2013 to test aspects of it:

China’s state news agency says the Chinese army will conduct an exercise next month to test new types of combat forces, including units using digital technology.

Xinhua reported Wednesday the drill marks the first time China’s military will focus on digitalized combat forces to be used in “informationalized war.”

The announcement of the digitalized combat forces comes as U.S. President Barack Obama is expected to talk about cybersecurity next week with Chinese President Xi Jinping, amid fresh reports of cyber attacks on critical American defense systems.

U.S. officials have not commented on the latest reports, but White House spokesman Jay Carney says he is certain cybersecurity will be discussed when President Obama meets with President Xi in California.  Carney calls the issue a “key concern” for the administration that U.S. officials raise at every level in meetings with Chinese counterparts.

Monday, The Washington Post newspaper published parts of a confidential defense report accusing Chinese cyberspies of compromising some of the most sensitive and advanced U.S. weapons systems.

Classified sections of the report outlined more than two-dozen breaches of missile defense and other weapons systems by Chinese hackers, including many that had not been previously reported.

China firmly denies involvement in the hacking attempts.  It has also returned the accusation, saying U.S.-based hackers have attacked several Chinese military websites. http://www.voanews.com/content/china-announces-digitalized-combat-forces/1670340.html

China is believed to be engaging in multiple forms of “cyber warfare” and now it basically admits it is preparing for a future, at least partially, cyberwar.

Of course, as the logo at the beginning of this post shows, the USA has its own plans (not all of which I believe are purely defensive).

While major war between the USA and China is not specifically prophesied in the Bible (though China may, at least somewhat, support the final King of the North Beast power, for a time against the USA and its interests–see the video Is China THE Threat to the United States of America?), this internet tension is showing the USA that China truly is not interested in being a friend (of course the USA has taken steps to show that it is also not China’s friend).

Actually, I believe that part of the reason that the USA will be able to be taken over by a European power is that it will conclude that China and others are a much bigger risk than Europe, and hence will shift more and more of its defense strategy towards dealing with China and others. Instead of considering Europe a threat, the USA will embrace it and rely on it for part of its military defense. The USA has already taken several steps along this line and this planned cyber-drill by China will only tend to increase the USA’s focus to China and away from Europe.

Overlooking Europe and the real threat from there (Isaiah 10:5-11) will be something that the militarily strong and wealthy USA will later regret (Daniel 11:39; 8:24).

Some articles with more related details include the following:

China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Genesis and Chinese Characters Where did the Chinese people come from? This article provides information showing that the Chinese peoples must have known about various accounts in the Book of Genesis up until their dispersion after the Tower of Babel.
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: The Sabbath and Some of God’s Witness in China When did Christianity first come to China? And is there early evidence that they observed the seventh day sabbath?
Is China THE Threat to the United States of America? China is the world’s most populace nation. China has the world’s largest standing military. China is a major economic power and it holds a lot of U.S. debt. China also has problems with corruption, pollution, and its hukou registration system. Will China face civil unrest? Is China prophesied to be wealthy in the end times? Will China takeover the U.S.A. or will it be another power? What does Bible prophecy reveal?
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?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

Shroud of Turin, poster from 1898

COGwriter

There was a conference related to the Shroud of Turin in Mexico that made the religious news:

Mexico City, Mexico, May 29, 2013 / 01:03 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Experts from around the world gathered in Mexico for a conference on the Holy Shroud of Turin in light of the latest studies indicating that the linen bears the characteristics of Jesus’ burial cloth.

The conference, entitled “The Holy Shroud and the Year of Faith,” took place May 24-25 in Mexico City as the Mexican Center for the Study of the Shroud marked its 30th anniversary.

The center is led by Dr. Adolfo Orozco, who is dedicated to studying and making known the burial cloth “that is presumed to have enveloped the body of Jesus of Nazareth and was a witness to the moment of the resurrection.”  http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/experts-meet-in-mexico-for-conference-on-shroud-of-turin/

The Continuing Church of God does not consider that the Shroud of Turin is holy nor the burial clothe of Jesus.

Amongst other reasons, it is not supported by the historical record nor scripture. The image on the Shroud of Turin shows a long-haired male.  Yet, Jesus did not have long hair.

Notice that even Catholic translations of the Bible support that:

¹⁴ Does not nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him,

¹⁵ but when a woman has long hair, it is her glory? (1 Corinthians 11:14-15a, New Jerusalem Bible)

While hair does grow after death, it does not grow quickly enough for the length that is on the Shroud of Turin.  Jesus said He would be in the grave three days and three nights (Matthew 12:40), and that would not be enough time for long hair to appear.

Here are a few comments on the Shroud of Turin from the Answers.com article titled Is the Shroud of Turin true or fraud?:

There is no record of the shroud during the first centuries of the Christian era, it is first mentioned in the 14th century, having been found in the Diocese of Troyes…

The Gospel writers say that the body of Jesus, after being taken from the stake by Joseph of Arimathea, was wrapped in clean fine linen. (Matthew 27:57-61; Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-56) The apostle John adds: Nicodemus also came bringing a roll of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds of it. So they took the body of Jesus and bound it up with bandages with the spices, just the way the Jews have the custom of preparing for burial. John 19:39-42…writers of the third and fourth centuries, many of whom wrote about a host of miracles in connection with numerous relics, did not mention the existence of a shroud containing the image of Jesus. What happened to it at this time, if it did exist, is unknown.

Let’s quote John 19:39-42 in its entirety:

39 And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. 40 Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. 41 Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby. (John 19:39-42)

Basically, strips of linen were placed on Jesus’ body somewhat like a mummy (this is also basically what happened to Lazarus, see John 11:43-44). If the Shroud of Turin was saturated with myrrh and aloes, it would by now be fairly stiff and would tend to look quite differently than it now does.

Notice furthermore that Jesus’ burial cloths, though mentioned in scripture, are basically only mentioned as being folded after the resurrection (and the description of multiple cloths also does not necessarily seem to quite match the Shroud of Turin):

6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; and he saw the linen cloths lying there, 7 and the handkerchief that had been around His head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself. 8 Then the other disciple, who came to the tomb first, went in also; and he saw and believed. 9 For as yet they did not know the Scripture, that He must rise again from the dead. 10 Then the disciples went away again to their own homes. (John 20:6-10).

By the time the Apostle John wrote this, if there had been any real special powers, it would have seemed that he would have mentioned them, but he did not.

Even if the actual burial cloth of Jesus were the Shroud of Turin or some other similar relic, it should not be venerated by Christians. History records that the early Christians opposed venerating relics. Many do not seem to realize how negatively early Christians viewed such items.

Most know very little about early church history–and what many think they know is clouded by misinformation and misconceptions.  And the Shroud of Turin does not provide helpful information into original Christianity, only for those who seem to prefer improper traditions of men over what the Bible teaches.

Those interested in early Christianity may wish to read the following documented articles to learn more:

What Did the Early Church Teach About Idols and Icons? Did Catholic and Orthodox “saints” endorse or condemn idols and icons for Christians?
Which Is Faithful: The Roman Catholic Church or the Continuing Church of God? Do you know that both groups shared a lot of the earliest teachings? Do you know which church changed? Do you know which group is most faithful to the teachings of the apostolic church? Which group best represents true Christianity? This documented article answers those questions. [Português: Qual é fiel: A igreja católica romana ou a igreja do deus?]
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?
The Churches of Revelation 2 & 3 Do they matter? Most say they must, but act like they do not. This article contains some history about the Church of God (sometimes referred to as the continuation of Primitive Christianity) over the past 2000 years.
What Do Roman Catholic Scholars Actually Teach About Early Church History? Although most believe that the Roman Catholic Church history teaches an unbroken line of succession of bishops beginning with Peter, with stories about most of them, Roman Catholic scholars know the truth of this matter. This eye-opening article is a must-read for any who really wants to know what Roman Catholic history actually admits about the early church.
Nazarene Christianity: Were the Original Christians Nazarenes? Should Christians be Nazarenes today? What were the practices of the Nazarenes.
Location of the Early Church: Another Look at Ephesus, Smyrna, and Rome What actually happened to the primitive Church? And did the Bible tell about this in advance?

The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

COGwriter

As American society continues to sink further into the mire of sexual immorality, it wants to push children into it as well:

May 28, 2013

Last Friday’s cross-dressing day at a Milwaukee elementary school proved contentious.

The school-sponsored event was one of the theme days during school spirit week at Tippecanoe School for the Arts and Humanities. While the themes for each of the other days were sufficiently milquetoast, Gender Bender Day — as it was originally named — raised a few parental eyebrows.

Members of the school’s student council chose the transvestite theme, reports WITI-TV. The idea was straightforward: boys were encouraged to dress like girls and girls were encouraged to dress like boys.

Deidri Hernandez, the mother a second-grader at Tippecanoe, found out about the plan and complained to the principal, reports EAGnews.org. School officials allegedly responded by saying that the school’s actions were not illegal. At the same time, officials also opted to change the themed day’s name to “Switch It Up Day.”  http://news.yahoo.com/school-sponsored-cross-dressing-day-elementary-school-causes-121822822.html

This is outrageous!

While cross-dressing in schools may not be ‘illegal,’ it certainly violates biblical standards of morality.

“Cross-dressing” is  condemned as an abomination in the Bible:

5 A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the Lord your God. (Deuteronomy 22:5)

Much associated with the homosexual agenda is an abomination to God:

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

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

9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)

While encouraging various males to be effeminate seems the desire of at least part of the entertainment industry, did you know that there is now to be a children’s program that features a ‘super-hero’ who transforms himself into a girl?

Nothing says “child-appropriate material” quite like gender-bending underage superheroes. At least that’s the theory over at the Hub, the network co-owned by Discovery and Hasbro, which is trotting out its latest soon-to-be-dud, SheZow. That show follows the adventures of a 12-year-old boy named Guy who uses a magic ring to transform himself into a crime-fighting girl. Yes, you read that correctly…The target audience for the Hub is children aged two to eleven.  http://www.breitbart.com/Big-Hollywood/2013/05/28/Children-network-transsexual-superhero

So, the world’s media is trying to reorient and confuse gender roles for children as young as age two.

In addition, once they get into school, across the USA there are school programs teaching the acceptance of homosexuality.  It is a requirement in some states.  California (which is the largest USA state in terms of population) now requires that contributions by the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community to history be taught, and keeps adding homosexual themed books to its recommended reading list for Kindergarten to 12th grade students (http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/pageviews/2013/03/california-to-introduce-more-gay-themed-books-into-school-curriculum-unsurprisingl).

It is true that some are objecting to this trend.  Various churches, for example, are pulling away from the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) because of its latest compromise with the homosexual agenda according to a report I saw from ABC news today.  The BSA, a group that claims that it wants its scouts “morally straight,” last week decided to allow openly homosexual boy scouts (see BSA makes the move to allow homosexual scouts).

Sadly the majority in the USA and other Anglo-dominated lands seem inclined to listen to (or at least tolerate) those who are strongly advocating wrong changes in moral directions.

What should parents do?

Parents should teach their children the word of God and press the importance of biblical morality.  Notice the following:

4 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one! 5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.  6 “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. (Deuteronomy 6:4-7)

6 Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)

Parents should also warn their children of the consequences of the immoral agenda that is being foisted off in the USA and other parts of the world:

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

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

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

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

The sexual immoral agenda will end in destruction.

Cross-dressing, BSA acceptance of open homosexuals, indoctrination classes on homosexuality, certain worldly entertainment, etc. turn children and adults away from biblical morality.

Parents need to turn their hearts and time to their children and the Bible says that they need to be told to do so.  Here are four translations of some verses in Malachi:

⁴ “Remember the law of my servant Moses, the decrees and laws I gave him at Horeb for all Israel.  ⁵ “See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. ⁶ He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction.”  (Malachi 4:4-6, NIV).

4  “Remember the law of my servant Moses, the statutes and rules that I commanded him at Horeb for all Israel.  5  “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes. 6 And he will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the land with a decree of utter destruction.” (Malachi 4:4-6, ESV)

4 Remember ye the law of Moses My servant, That I did command him in Horeb, For all Israel — statutes and judgments.  5 Lo, I am sending to you Elijah the prophet, Before the coming of the day of Jehovah, The great and the fearful.  6 And he hath turned back the heart of fathers to sons, And the heart of sons to their fathers, Before I come and have utterly smitten the land!  (Malachi 4:4-6, YLT)

4 Remember the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel, the precepts, and judgments. 5 Behold I will send you Elias the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.  6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers: lest I come, and strike the earth with anathema. (Malachi 4:4-6, Douay-Rheims).

While the trend in society is to go the wrong way, children need to be taught the right way.  This way they can turn their hearts to their parents and not towards an immoral and destructive direction.

The Great Tribulation and Day of the Lord is coming.  And while some diligent Christians (the few Philadelphians) will be protected from it (Revelation 3:10).  Most people will be alive when it begins, including Christians (Revelation 12:17) will have to experience it (Revelation 3:10; Matthew 24:21).

The time to teach YOUR children diligently is now.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Bible Condemns Homosexuality “Same-sex marriage” for “gays” and lesbians is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality? Can homosexuals change?
Cross-dressing and other assaults against your children.  What should you do? Is there an agenda to turn your children and/or grandchildren away from biblical morality and towards practices promoted by homosexuals? What does the Bible teach about cross-dressing? What should parents do? If there is an agenda, what has been going on?
Love, Marriage, and Sex It is important to get them in the right order.
Five Rules for Effective Parenting Do you know that there are five simple rules that can make you a more effective parent? There is also a 12 1/2 minute YouTube video on this, also titled Five Rules for Effective Parenting.
What Psychologists do not Know About Child Rearing This is an article by Herbert Armstrong that was used as the introduction to the pdf booklet The Plain Truth About Child Rearing.
The Plain Truth About Child Rearing This is a pdf booklet that the old WCG put out.
Elijah: Past and Prophesied Information about the original Elijah and some information about the Elijah-related prophecies.
The Elijah Heresies Does the Bible teach that there will be a future Elijah? Must it be Herbert W. Armstrong?
How To Determine If Someone is a True Prophet of God There are many false prophets. How can Christians determine who is a true prophet? There is also a sermon-length video titled How to determine if someone is a true prophet of God. Here is a related link in Spanish/español: ¿Cómo determinar si alguien es un verdadero profeta de Dios?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2013, 2014, or 2015? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? See also the video Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2013?
There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be 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. There is also a video on the subject: Might Petra be the Place of Safety?
This is PETRA! This is a 1962 Good News article by the late Dr. Hoeh.
What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally?
What Did Jesus Teach About the Ten Commandments? This article quotes what Jesus actually said about them (His words are in red).
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?
The Ten Commandments and the Early Church Did Jesus and the Early Church keep the ten commandments? What order were they in? Here are quotes from the Bible and early writings.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

EU Flag

COGwriter

At least one EU governmental official seems to be blaming Britain for getting the EU to be more warlike:

Preparing For War In The Middle East

Notice that Austria’s Michael Spindelegger considers that the European Union is a “peace organisation” and that what the UK has helped impose will ‘fundamentally’ change the EU.

While the EU does not think it is a warring organization (cf. Isaiah 10:7), the Bible shows that it will end up as one (Isaiah 10:5-11).  It will also takeover the UK, and perhaps will partially blame the UK for that as well.  Calling UK tactics annoying and deplorable also shows a low level of respect for Britain.

As far as the tiny nation of Israel goes, at some point in time it will feel so much pressure that it will accept a claimed ‘peace deal’ (Daniel 9:27) in involving Europe (Daniel 9:26) that will ultimately result in it getting taken over (Daniel 11:31,39-43).  But that time is still for the future (for information on the ‘peace deal, etc. see When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2013, 2014, or 2015?).

Europe, despite its hesitations, is starting to become a bit more militaristic.  The Bible shows that it will become a major military power in the future (Revelation 13:4, Daniel 11:39-43).

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

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”?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? What MUST happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2013, 2014, or 2015? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? See also the video Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2013?
Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European? The Book of Revelation tells of a beast power that will rise up. Some think that this must be Russia or could be Islamic, while others say that this power is European. The Book of Daniel tells of the rise of an end time King of the North that some think must be referring to a Russian leader, while others say that this power is European. How can you be sure? This YouTube video has all the scriptural proofs that you should need to prove that this power must be a European one.
Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Does the Bible tell of a time to come when the USA and the other Anglo-dominated nations will be taken over militarily? Will their lands be divided? Will their people be made slaves? Who will the lands be divided with? Where will the people end up? Will this coming captivity end? What does prophecy teach?
Jerusalem: Past, Present, and Future What does the Bible say about Jerusalem and its future? Is Jerusalem going to be divided and eliminated? Is Jesus returning to the area of Jerusalem? There is also a related YouTube video you can watch titled Jerusalem To be divided and eliminated.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?