Church of God News

The Strength of Dollars Have Long Been Part of the “Pride of the Power” of the USA (which will be broken per Leviticus 26:19)

COGwriter

It will come as little surprise to readers of this page to realize that the number one export from the USA over the past several years has not been automobiles or pharmaceuticals, but instead it has been debt:

We in the old WCG and in the current LCG have been warning about this debt accumulation for decades.  And the late Herbert W. Armstrong, unlike the main current USA presidential hopefuls, as far back as the 1980s warned the Anglo-American peoples to prepare to lower their standard of living.

How did he know?

Because it was prophesied in the Bible.

Why have others not known this?

Because many who profess Christ have little interest in biblical prophecies in the Hebrew scriptures (AKA the Old Testament), they simply have ignored the warnings that God inspired Moses and others to record.

The Bible warned the descendants of Jacob:

15 “But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you: 16 Cursed shall you be in the city, and cursed shall you be in the country…

43 The alien who is among you shall rise higher and higher above you, and you shall come down lower and lower. 44 He shall lend to you, but you shall not lend to him; he shall be the head, and you shall be the tail. 45 Moreover all these curses shall come upon you and pursue and overtake you, until you are destroyed, because you did not obey the voice of the LORD your God, to keep His commandments and His statutes which He commanded you (Deuteronomy 28:15-16,43-45).

The “time of Jacob’s trouble” (Jeremiah 30:7) is getting close.  And eventually those that lent the money will rise up against the Anglo-Americans, plunder the land, and make many their slaves (Habakkuk 2:6-8).

The stock market did not react too well today when the US House of Representatives voted against guaranteeing certain debts:

It was the biggest closing point drop in market history, but far from the largest on a percentage basis. http://www.kwtx.com/money/headlines/29903229.html

We live in perilous times.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? There is a Mayan calendar prediction for change in 2012. 2012 changes were also centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans and others (who were not even on the same continent). Do these Mayan/Hindu/Hopi prophecies have any value? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start before 2012?
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?
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?
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.

The Above Church in Greece is Called the Sunday Church, But Christians are to Observe the Seventh Day

COGwriter

In his latest update, LCG’s Dr. Winnail wrote:

Together on the Sabbath—for a Reason! We understand from the Bible that the Sabbath is a special, sanctified day of rest (Genesis 2:1-3). When properly kept, it is a delight (Isaiah 58:13-14).  We are also admonished in the Scriptures to encourage one another, “not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some” (Hebrews 10:24-25).  In the early New Testament Church, members gathered together on the Sabbath to worship and fellowship with other believers (see Acts 2:1; 13:14, 44; 17:2, etc.).  In doing so, they were following the commandment to “remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8).  Today, with many small independent groups, it is easy to assume that observing the Sabbath is all we have to do to please God and be part of His Church.  However, we need to remember that God’s Church is commissioned to “go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15).  We need to make sure that the group we gather together with on the Sabbath is part of a Church that is actively fulfilling this God-given mission.

Notice what the Bible teaches in the Book of Hebrews:

4 For somewhere he has spoken about the seventh day in these words: “And on the seventh day God rested from all his work”…

9 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10 for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. 11 Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience (Hebrews 4:4, 9-1,1NIV).

25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

26 If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, 27 but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God (Hebrews 10:25-27, NIV).

With the Day fast approaching, and certainly closer than when Hebrews was written, getting together on the Sabbath is one thing that those who truly wish to support getting the full gospel to the world as a witness will do.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

There are Many COGs: Why Support the Living Church of God? This is an article for those who wish to more easily sort out the different COGs. It really should be a MUST READ for current and former WCG members or any interested in supporting the faithful church. It also explains a lot of what the COGs are all about.
Is Revelation 1:10 talking about Sunday or the Day of the Lord? Most Protestant scholars say Sunday is the Lord’s Day, but is that what the Bible teaches?
The Sabbath in the Early Church and Abroad Was the seventh-day (Saturday) Sabbath observed by the apostolic and post-apostolic Church?
The Dramatic Story of Chinese Sabbathkeepers This reformatted Good News article from 1955 discusses Sabbath-keeping in China in the 1800s.
Is God Unreasonable? Some have suggested that if God requires Sabbath-keeping He is unreasonable. Is that true?
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by 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.
Sunday and Christianity Was Sunday observed by the apostolic and true post-apostolic Christians? How clearly endorsed Sunday?
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.
Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers those important questions.
Getting the Gospel Out is More than a Local Job Discusses Biblical rationale for doing an international, and not just a local, work.
How Much Did You Cost? Some have complained that the total costs spent to proclaim the gospel as a witness is too high since it does not (in their opinion) result in enough conversions. Is that how God sees it?
Should the Church Still Try to Place its Top Priority on Proclaiming the Gospel or Did Herbert W. Armstrong Change that Priority for the Work? Some say the Church should mainly feed the flock now as that is what Herbert W. Armstrong reportedly said. Is that what he said? Is that what the Bible says? What did Paul and Herbert W. Armstrong expect from evangelists?

COGwriter

Earlier this month, Charles Darwin made the news.  Notice some of what was reported about him:

God, Evolution and Charles Darwin

Ten surprising things Darwin said about religious faith

The reality is that although his evolutionary model was flawed and he admitted to some of its weaknesses (see Is Evolution Probable or Impossible or Is God’s Existence Logical?), those that wanted freedom from religion (or at least many of the moral associated with it) grabbed onto his writings anyway.

Interestingly, however (as partially documented in the Ben Stein movie earlier this year called Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed, for more information see the article Ben Stein’s Expelled) there are a lot of people in academia that are not interested in the scientific flaws of evolution being publicly taught.  Hence, many foolishly assume that somehow evolution is is accepted by scientists who have actually not violated scientific principles.

Of course, there is a God and God created life.  And that is the only explanation of the origin of life that does not violate all known laws of science.

For more detailed information on why that is so, please read the following articles:

Is God’s Existence Logical? Some say it is not logical to believe in God. Is that true?
Is Evolution Probable or Impossible or Is God’s Existence Logical? Part II This short article clearly answers what ‘pseudo-scientists’ refuse to acknowledge.
Where Did God Come From? Any ideas? And how has God been able to exist? Who is God?
How is God Omnipotent, Omnipresent, and Omniscient? Here is a biblical article by Wallace Smith which answers what many really wonder about it.
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?
The Bible: Fact or Fiction? This is a booklet written by Douglas Winnail that answers if the Bible is just a collection of myths and legends or the inspired word of God.

A Shofar made from the horn of a Greater kudu.
The type of trumpet used for the Feast of Trumpets historically has been some type of animal horn.

COGwriter

In its update today, UCG reported:

Many Old and New Testament prophecies describe the coming Day of the Lord, including those of the seven trumpets in Revelation 8-11. They create a composite picture of a time of blowing of trumpets, a time of catastrophic war, and a time when all nations will be brought together to be judged by God.

The Feast of Trumpets contains an important message for Christians. In fact, it is the most important news on the globe today. It heralds the gospel’s emphasis on repentance and judgment, the warning blasts of the shofar, the Day of the Lord and the proclamation that the Messiah is returning to establish God’s Kingdom on the earth.

Jesus Himself makes a key statement in His Mount Olivet prophecy recorded in Matthew 24: “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.

“Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other” (verses 29-31).

Notice that the return of Jesus Christ is accompanied by the sound of a trumpet.

The apostle Paul encourages Christians to keep the coming Day of the Lord in mind. He writes to the church in Thessalonica: “For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.

“But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night.

“But let us who are of the day be sober . . . For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him” (1 Thessalonians 5:2-10).

Indeed, the resurrection of the saints to reign with Christ in glory will come at the sounding of the last trumpet (1 Corinthians 15:51-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

The prophesied Day of the Lord is coming. The trumpet will sound, the saints will be raised from the grave and Jesus Christ will return to establish His Father’s Kingdom on the earth.

The Feast of Trumpets begins at sundown next Monday and runs until sundown on Tuesday, September 30, 2008.

Contrary to certain Protestant claims, perhaps it should be mentioned that the Bible shows that the Day of the Lord last one year. 

Isaiah shows the length and it is described as punishment for those who punished the church (called Zion):

For it is the day of the LORD’s vengeance, The year of recompense for the cause of Zion (Isaiah 34:8).

1 To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; 2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, 3 To console those who mourn in Zion (Isaiah 61:1-3).

Within the Living Church of God it is understood that the seven trumpets plagues of Revelation 8, 9, and 11, and the seven plagues of Revelation 16 essentially constitute much of what will happen in the “Day of the Lord” (though certain events in Matthew 24, Zechariah 14, and other portions of the Bible are also fulfilled then).

Regarding the “Day of the Lord” the late John Ogwyn of LCG wrote:

Here we should note that Scripture identifies the true saints as those who actually obey God and keep His commandments. Revelation 14:12 emphasizes this point by describing the saints in comparison to those who will receive God’s punishment…

John records a vision of seven angels, with seven golden bowls that pour out seven final plagues, one after another. This pouring occurs rather quickly, as we see when we examine the nature of the plagues. If the second and third plagues, for instance, lasted more than a few days, all life would perish from the planet.

When the first bowl is poured out, a grievous sore comes upon those who had disregarded the third angel’s message and were still loyal to the Beast system. Then, when the second angel pours out his bowl, all the oceans become like “the blood of a dead man” (16:3). All sea life dies. With the pouring out of the third bowl, all the fresh water turns to blood, and sources of drinking water are destroyed. Then, the fourth angel pours his bowl, and scorching heat from the sun punishes rebellious mankind. Next, great darkness comes upon Europe (”the seat of the Beast”) and its people are in agonizing pain and heat, engulfed in total darkness and lacking usable water all at the same time. The darkness results from the bowl poured out by the fifth angel.

After this, John sees the sixth angel pour his bowl upon the Euphrates. Demon spirits go forth to bring all the armies together north of Jerusalem. The huge Asiatic army that had previously been massed on the east bank of the Euphrates pours into the land of Israel, and converges in the area of Armageddon (Hebrew for “mount of Megiddo“). Megiddo is a hill that stands overlooking the Valley of Jezreel, about 55 miles north of Jerusalem. When the final seventh bowl is poured out, there will be a tremendous earthquake so massive that the very topography of the earth itself will be altered (vv. 18–20). Very likely this earthquake is the same one that is described in Zechariah 14:4, when the feet of Jesus Christ finally stand once more upon the Mount of Olives, located just east of Jerusalem…

It is important that we realize now, and in the crucial years ahead, that God’s victory is certain. This history has already been written in advance! Therefore, it is imperative that we come out of this world’s Babylonish system (18:4), and give our total and true allegiance to Jesus Christ and the message that He taught!

There are many details, but basically this “Day of the Lord” is God’s vengeance on the world for persecuting His people and not listening to His servants like the two witnesses.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Did Early Christians Observe the Fall Holy Days? Did they? Did Jesus? Did the Apostle Paul? Should you?
Who Are The Two Witnesses? What is their job? What does the Bible reveal? What has the Church of God taught on this subject? Might even Roman Catholic prophecies give some clues here?
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.
The Book of Life and the Feast of Trumpets? Are they related? Is so how? If not, where not?
The Day of Atonement–Its Christian Significance The Jews call it Yom Kippur, Christians “The Day of Atonement”. Does it have any relevance for Christians today?
The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians? Is this pilgrimage holy day still valid? Does it teach anything relevant for today’s Christians?
LCG 2008 Feast of Tabernacles’ Information Here is information on many Feast of Tabernacles locations for this year.
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?
Holy Day Calendar This is a listing of the biblical holy days through 2012, with their Roman calendar dates. They are really hard to observe if you do not know when they occur

COGwriter

Mistranslations of the Bible have long caused concerns.

Now there was been an unusual one in India:

The book in Kuduk language, one of the main tribal languages in Jharkhand, has been brought out by the Bible Society of India (BSI).

The translated version reportedly says: “Destroy the trees and Sarna (tribals’ worship places).”

“BSI has done a criminal act by publishing such derogatory remarks in the translated Bible. This is a conspiracy against the tribal society.

“We seek a probe and action against the society for publishing the book which hurt the sentiments of the tribal,” said Oraon.

The BJP tribal legislators came in the well of the house and shouted slogans like “Stop hurting tribal sentiments”.

Inder Singh Namdhari, former assembly speaker and independent legislator, said: “No one has the right to hurt the sentiment of any religion. Government should take suitable action on the issue.”

Deputy Chief Minister Stephen Marandi said: “We admit the fault. Wrong translation of Bible has been done by BSI.

“The state government will recall the translated version of the book and take suitable action against the publisher,” he added.

Marandi, however, did not clarify what action would be taken against the publishers.

The BJP legislators were not satisfied with the reply and they shouted slogans. They demanded action against the publisher.

The Congress legislators alleged that the BJP was politicising the issue.

A deep resentment is prevailing among the tribal scholars on the issue.

Tribal scholars demanded suitable action against the publishers. “The Christian missionaries have no right to hurt the sentiment of the tribal people. The issue could take a volatile shape if such things take place,” said Karma Oraon, a tribal scholar.

On Monday, 11 tribals were arrested in Ranchi for trying to burn the copies of the Bible.

Less than a year back, another book published by the society had insulted a local freedom fighter. The issue was also raised in the state assembly. http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/translated-bible-rocks-jharkhand-assembly_10098897.html

The above seems to be an extremely odd translation.  Apparently the translator was trying to make his/her own discriminatory “point”.

The only verse that the KJV uses the expression “destroy the trees” says not to do it:

When thou shalt besiege a city a long time, in making war against it to take it, thou shalt not destroy the trees (Deuteronomy 20:19; KJV).

Mistranslations of the Bible and other early writings have affected how many view Christianity.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Another Look at the Didache, Ignatius, and the Sabbath Did Ignatius write against the Sabbath and for Sunday? What about the Didache? What does the actual Greek reveal?
Is Revelation 1:10 talking about Sunday or the Day of the Lord? Most Protestant scholars say Sunday is the Lord’s Day, but is that what the Bible teaches?
India, Its Biblical Past and Future: Any Witness? The Bible discusses the origins of those of Indian heritage and discusses some of the witness to them.

COGwriter

Yesterday was the first day of Fall, which means that the biblical Fall Holy Days will be here soon.

Of course, not everyone cares for them. In his latest letter (which I received last night), Legacy’s Leon Sexton wrote about a problem he is having in Burma:

Some are now teaching that the Annual Holy Days are “Jewish” and people who observe them are “Judaizers”…Their goal is NOT to preach the TRUTH of the Bible.

And over 1600 years ago, God’s Holy Days were condemned by a racist, John Chrysostom, who is now considered to be a Catholic and Orthodox saint and “doctor of the church”.  Earlier this year, the Protestant Christianity Today also named John Chrysostom the person of the week and Benedict XVI praised him last fall (see Christianity Todays’ “Person of the Week”).

Here is what their John Chrysostom publicly preached in 387 A.D.:

The festivals of the pitiful and miserable Jews are soon to march upon us one after the other and in quick succession: the feast of Trumpets, the feast of Tabernacles, the fasts. There are many in our ranks who say they think as we do. Yet some of these are going to watch the festivals and others will join the Jews in keeping their feasts and observing their fasts. I wish to drive this perverse custom from the Church right now…If the Jewish ceremonies are venerable and great, our are lies…Does God hate their festivals and do you share in them? He did not say this or that festival, but all of them together. (John Chrysostom. Homily I Against the Jews I:5;VI:5;VII:2. Preached at Antioch, Syria in the Fall of 387 AD. Medieval Sourcebook: Saint John Chrysostom (c.347-407) : Eight Homilies Against the Jews. Fordham University. http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/source/chrysostom-jews6.html 12/10/05).

The wicked and unclean fast of the Jews is now at our doors. Thought it is a fast, do not wonder that I have called it unclean…But now that the devil summons your wives to the feast of the Trumpets and they turn a ready ear to this call, you do not restrain them. You let them entangle themselves in accusations of ungodliness, you let them be dragged off into licentious ways. (John Chrysostom. Homily II Against the Jews I:1; III:4. Preached at Antioch, Syria on Sunday, September 5, 387 A.D.).

So also the Law fixed the feast of Tabernacles (John Chrysostom. Homily IV Against the Jews IV:3. Catholic Christians of Antioch Turning to Sabbath and The New Moon Day and Other Holy Days. 387 A.D.).

John Chrysostom preached against the Fall holy days, because some who professed Christ were observing them. It is interesting to note that he must have realized that the second century church kept Passover the same time as the Jews did (this was even true in the early second century in Rome). And that the Catholic Church still kept Pentecost. Thus by preaching what he did, John Chrysostom is preaching against his own church as the Roman and Orthodox Catholics claim to keep both Passover (though on a different date, and with a different name) and Pentecost–as both of those festivals would be part of “all of them together”.

It should be noted that the basic reason that John Chrysostom preached against the holy days was due to antisemitism. In demonstrates this in his Homily Against the Jews (of which there are at least eight of) as he calls the Jews by a variety of names. Here are a few of his statements:

But do not be surprised that I called the Jews pitiable. They really are pitiable and miserable (I:II:1).

So the godlessness of the Jews and the pagans is on a par. But the Jews practice a deceit which is more dangerous (I:VI:4).

Do you see that demons dwell in their souls and that these demons are more dangerous than the ones of old? (I:VI:7).

Since it is against the Jews that I wish to draw up my battle line, let me extend my instruction further. Let me show that, by fasting now, the Jews dishonor the law and trample underfoot God’s commands because they are always doing everything contrary to his decrees. When God wished them to fast, they got fat and flabby (VI:IV:2).

Indeed, the fasting of the Jews, which is more disgraceful than any drunkenness, is over and gone (VIII:I:5).

But the facts are that the Holy Days were kept by Jesus, the New Testament Church, and those faithful to their teachings. And the other fact is that no where in the Bible do we see hatred against the Jews. Jesus taught we were to love our neighbor (and most the of “neighbors” He was then talking to were Jewish).

Furthermore, the New Testament calls one of the so-called “Jewish” holy days “great”. Notice the following from both a Protestant and a Catholic translation:

On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out (John 7:37, NKJV)

And in the last, the great day of the festivity JESUS stood, and cried (John 7:37, Rheims New Testament).

So who is right?

Those who follow Jesus’ practices or those who condemn them?

Recall that John Chrysostum, in this case, somewhat correctly stated,

“If the Jewish ceremonies are venerable and great, ours are lies“.

So which days should be observed? Which have a “great day” according to the Bible? Which days are lies? (John Chrysostom supported days with pagan ties such as Christmas and Easter.)

Perhaps it might be helpful to realize that Catholics do admit that early Christians did observe the Feast of Tabernacles:

St. Jerome (PL 25, 1529 & 1536-7) speaking of how the Judaeo-Christians celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles…tells us that they gave the feast a millenarian significance (Bagatti, Bellarmino.  Translated by Eugene Hoade.  The Church from the Circumcision.  Nihil obstat: Marcus Adinolfi. Imprimi potest: Herminius Roncari. Imprimatur: +Albertus Gori, die 26 Junii 1970.  Franciscan Printing Press, Jerusalem, p.202).

We in the Living Church of God also keep the Feast of Tabernacles and believe that it foreshadows the coming millennium.

The first Holy Day this Fall season is the Feast of Trumpets (called Rosh Hashanah by the Jews) which begin September 29th, 2008 at sunset until sunset September 30th.

The second Holy Day this Fall season is the Day of Atonement (called Yom Kippur by the Jews) which begin October 8th, 2008 at sunset until sunset October 9th.

The seven day Feast of Tabernacles begins at sunset October 13th and is followed by the Last Great Day, which ends October 21st, 2008 at sunset. (Most people travel to attend the Feast of Tabernacles, you can click here to see LCG 2008 Feast of Tabernacles’ Information).

Then, other than the weekly Sabbaths, there are no Holy Days until Passover in the Spring.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Did Early Christians Observe the Fall Holy Days? Did they? Did Jesus? Did the Apostle Paul? Should you?
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.
The Book of Life and the Feast of Trumpets? Are they related? Is so how? If not, where not?
The Day of Atonement–Its Christian Significance The Jews call it Yom Kippur, Christians “The Day of Atonement”. Does it have any relevance for Christians today?
The Feast of Tabernacles: A Time for Christians? Is this pilgrimage holy day still valid? Does it teach anything relevant for today’s Christians?
LCG 2008 Feast of Tabernacles’ Information Here is information on many Feast of Tabernacles locations for this year.
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?
Holy Day Calendar This is a listing of the biblical holy days through 2012, with their Roman calendar dates. They are really hard to observe if you do not know when they occur

World Financial Markets Have Been Dangerously Unstable

COGwriter

In his latest update, LCG’s Dr. Winnail wrote:

Perils Test Our Faith: The Apostle Paul warned, “know this, that in the last days perilous times will come” (2 Timothy 3:1).  Jesus predicted that the end of the age would be marked by trials and turmoil on a global scale (Matthew 24).  Jesus also wondered aloud “when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8) and He prayed that Peter’s faith would not fail when he encountered trials and tribulation (Luke 22:32).  When the challenges of life begin to mount, we need to remember that faith is one of the fruits of God’s Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and that God gives His Spirit to those who trust Him and obey His instructions (Acts 5:32).  We must do our part to stir up God’s Spirit to help us overcome our fears (2 Timothy 1:6-7).  We can ask for more faith (Luke 17:5).  We need to remember that faith comes from hearing (and studying) God’s word (Romans 10:17), which states plainly that God is faithful (Deuteronomy 7:9) and that He is like a rock and a fortress that protects and preserves His faithful people (Psalm 31:3, 23).  James wrote, “the testing of your faith produces patience” (James 1:3-4).  We can build our faith by studying the examples of faith recorded in Hebrews 11, as we strive to please God and stay focused on His plan.

Notice a couple of news reports on one current peril:

ALMOST ARMAGEDDON

Even more perilous times are coming as the Apostle Paul wrote and Jesus indicated, but “the end is not yet” (Matthew 24:6; Mark 13:7).

But, the while the Anglo - America powers are going to be devastated shortly (and the end, meaning the Great Tribulation, will come to them first), Europe will not really be devastated economically for a few years later.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Why Prophecy? Because the World Will Not End Next Week Some question or downplay the role of prophecy. This article gives some of the biblical reasons what it is important and explains why the world cannot end for at least 3 1/3 years from now.
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?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? There is a Mayan calendar prediction for change in 2012. 2012 changes were also centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans (the Hindus may have some predictions for the next decade as well). Do these Mayan/Hindu/Hopi prophecies have any value? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start before 2012?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? When does the six thousand years of human rule end?

Depiction of Levites Carrying the Ark of the Covenant

COGwriter

Common, among those Protestants who tend to accept the literal understanding of the Bible and have interest in matters prophetic, is the belief that before Jesus returns there will be a new (or rebuilt) temple in Jerusalem.

Popular Protestant writers Dr. T. LaHaye & J. Jenkins go so far as to declare:

All prophecy teachers who interpret the Scriptures literally agree that a Jewish temple in Israel will be rebuilt…

That there will be a third temple is predicted by the prophet Daniel, the apostles Paul and John, and none other than Jesus Himself.  They all taught that Israel’s third temple will be rebuilt either before the Tribulation begins or soon thereafter, for it is seen in complete operation by the middle of the Tribulation.  Obviously, since Israel does not now have a temple, a third temple must be rebuilt for such an event to occur.

…the Antichrist desolates it near the middle of the Tribulation.

(Are We Living in the End Times? Tyndale House, Wheaton (IL), 1999, pp.122, 126).

But this contention that there needs to be a third Jewish temple in Jerusalem is wrong.

The New Testament itself basically uses two Greek terms for temple: they are hieron (ίερόν) and naos (ναος or ναον).

While the Greek term hieron always refers to a physical temple in the New Testament (usually a Jewish one, but sometimes a pagan one, e.g. Acts 19:27), the term naos does not have to (and often does not, e.g. John 2:19-21)–and the naos temple is what Jesus, Paul, and John were referring to (Daniel did not use any accepted Hebrew term for temple in his prophetic writings).

Many Jewish Scholars Claim a Temple is Necessary, But Does the Bible?

While most contemporary Jewish scholars seem to contend that a physical Jewish temple (Hebrew: בית המקדש, Bet HaMikdash; “The Holy House”) is necessary for the resumption of sacrifices, this appears to be based more upon certain Jewish traditions than the Bible.

Jesus, however, specifically warned against taking the traditions of Jewish religious teachers above those of the Bible (Mark 7:13).

The Bible itself never teaches that animal sacrifices cannot be performed unless there is a temple in Jerusalem.

Until Solomon built the first temple (1 Kings 6:14), the Bible shows that the Jews sacrificed on altars. David, Solomon’s father, for example sacrificed on an altar (2 Samuel 24:25), as did Aaron and his descendants (Exodus 20:24; Leviticus 1:10-11). And prior to all of that, Abel (Genesis 4:4), Noah (Genesis 8:20), Abraham (Genesis 22:9-13), and others sacrificed animals to God. So for over 3,000 years, animal sacrifices were offered without a Jewish temple.

Even after the first Jerusalem temple was built and left in ruins, the Bible itself specifically shows that sacrifices were made in the time of Ezra BEFORE the second temple was ready:

From the first day of the seventh month began they to offer burnt offerings unto the LORD. But the foundation of the temple of the LORD was not yet laid. (Ezra 3:6)

One may argue that since it takes Jewish religious leaders in order for Jewish animal sacrifices to be resumed, that the above scripture is a mute point.

And it might be if there were no Jewish religious leaders that thought that they could not sacrifice without a temple.

But the fact is, that although they are in the minority, there are significant numbers of Jewish religious leaders who are intent on starting animal sacrifices as soon as possible. And these Jewish leaders do not believe that they have to wait in order for a temple to rebuilt in order to do so.

Notice the following news report:

The 71 members of the “Re-established Sanhedrin” say they want to begin sacrificing animals again, despite the absence of the Temple, the ritual altar and all the required implements listed in the Bible. Rabbi Dov Stein of the group admitted…

“We want to do the sacrifice, but we have political problems,” Stein said. “We hope there will come a time when the government will agree. We will push for that to happen.” (Rabbis aim to renew animal sacrifices. Associated Press. Feb 28, 2007. http://www.jpost.com)

The “Sanhedrin” group referred to above began to form in 2004 and claims to have “the consent of hundreds of rabbis, scholars and leaders” (http://www.thesanhedrin.org/en/index.php/The_Sanhedrin_Initiative viewed 09/11/08). It also has been working on implements, including those related to having an altar.

This group has made some attempts to offer sacrifices in the past, but has often ran into political opposition. Yet, because the Muslims have a strong presence at the site of the old Temple Mount (Har HaBayit) with their al-Aqsa Mosque, some consider the actual construction of a Jewish temple there to be impossible.

However, in a nation as politically fragmented as modern Israel, the time may come when a ruling coalition will have in it some members of a small religious group that will insist on the resumption of sacrifices for it to be able to remain in office. And allowing sacrifices on a small altar certainly would seem politically more plausible than the construction of a Jewish temple on the dome of the rock or otherwise next to the al-Aqsa Mosque. While this may not be seen as viable in every possible Israeli administration, it certainly is a possibility for a future one.

But be that as it may, the Bible itself allows for the resumption of animal sacrifices without a physical temple being rebuilt. Hence, from a biblical perspective, a rebuilt third Jewish temple is not required for the prophecies in Daniel (or any other part of the Bible) to be fulfilled.

Biblically, all that is required are Jewish religious leaders willing to sacrifice in Israel. And there are enough of them currently to conclude that animal sacrifices can occur at almost anytime.

Response From the Sanhedrin

For further clarification of the position of the reconstituted Sanhedrin, I contacted that group and asked why it felt that sacrifices can be started before a temple is rebuilt.

The response received was:

Rabbi Yeshayahu Hollander wrote:

רמב”ם, מעשה הקרבנות, פרק יט , הלכה טז והלכה יז:

טז [טו] מִי שֶׁשָּׁחַט קֳדָשִׁים בַּזְּמָן הַזֶּה, וְהֶעֱלָה חוּץ לָעֲזָרָה–חַיָּב: מִפְּנֵי שְׁהוּא רָאוּי לִקָּרֵב בִּפְנִים–שֶׁהֲרֵי מֻתָּר לְהַקְרִיב, אַף עַל פִּי שְׁאֵין בַּיִת, שֶׁקְּדֻשָּׁה רִאשׁוֹנָה קִדְּשָׁה לְשָׁעָתָהּ וְקִדְּשָׁה לָעֲתִיד לָבוֹא, כְּמוֹ שֶׁבֵּאַרְנוּ.

יז [טז] הַשּׁוֹחֵט קָדְשֵׁי גּוֹיִים בַּחוּץ, חַיָּב; וְכֵן הַמַּעֲלֶה אוֹתָן בַּחוּץ. וְהַגּוֹיִים מֻתָּרִין לְהַקְרִיב עוֹלוֹת לַה’, בְּכָל מָקוֹם–וְהוּא, שֶׁיַּקְרִיבוּ בַּבָּמָה שֶׁיִּבְנוּ. וְאָסוּר לְסַיְּעָן, וְלַעֲשׂוֹת שְׁלִיחוּתָן–שֶׁהֲרֵי נֶאֱסַר עָלֵינוּ לְהַקְרִיב בַּחוּץ; וּמֻתָּר לְהוֹרוֹת לָהֶם, וּלְלַמְּדָם הֵיאַךְ יַקְרִיבוּ לְשֵׁם הָאֵל בָּרוּךְ הוּא.

Translation:

Hichot Maasei HaKorbanot [The Procedures of Offering Sacrifices]

Chapter 19

Paragraph 17:

He who slaughters a Sacrifice in this period [when we have no Temple], and offered the sacrifice outside the Azara [the alloted area of the Temple] - is culpable, because the offering must be performed in the Azara, SINCE IT IS PERMITTED TO PERFORM SACRIFICES despite having no Temple, since the sanctity of the Temple is eternal.

Paragraph 18:

He who slaughters the sacrifice of a gentile outside the Azara is culpable, as is one who performs the offering. NON JEWS are permitted to offer burnt-offerings anywhere, on an alkter which they built. Jews may not help them in the performance of this sacrifice, since Jews may not offer sacrifices outside the Azara. But we may instruct them and teach them how to perform sacrificesto the ASlmighty God, Blessed be He.

Additionally, it is worth noting that on 5766, Rabbi Benyamin Fuss published a 445 page book on Sacrifices of non-jews, of which the text proper is of 372 pages [the rest are indices, etc.] called Torat Habamah: Regarding sacrifices on an Altar outside the Temple. (In email from the Sanhedrin webmaster Abrahamson to Bob Thiel September 17, 2008).

Rabbi Yeshayahu Hollander is the English language spokesman for the nascent Sanhedrin.

The webmaster of the Sanhedrin added the following in a subsequent email:

This quote comes from Maimonides’ (Rambam) work the Mishneh Torah.

The nascent Sanhedrin sees itself as the continuation of rabbinic jurisprudence, and must take into account all halachic works written to date, and proceed from there.

More information on sacrifices here:
http://www.thesanhedrin.org/en/index.php/Committee_concerning_the_Korban_Pesach
particularly the three “See also” links

More information about the nascent Sanhedrin is here:
http://www.thesanhedrin.org/en

http://www.thesanhedrin.net/en (Email from the Sanhedrin webmaster Abrahamson to Bob Thiel September 17, 2008).

Thus, the position of the nascent Sanhedrin appears to be that Jewish sacrifices can be started on an altar and that a physical temple is not required.

This is certainly consistent with past biblical practices, as well as the teachings of the Living Church of God.

And contrary to the implied assertions of Dr. LaHaye and J. Jenkins who think sacrifices must be in a Jewish temple.  A third temple of Jerusalem being built was never specified by Jesus, Daniel, Paul, nor John.  There is simply no verse in the entire Bible that states that a third temple in Jerusalem needs to be built before the Antichrist’s final 3 1/2 years.

Errors in prophetic understandings, like those that Dr. LaHaye and J. Jenkins have been promoting (they also wrote the Left Behind series of misleading books),  will likely result in many not understanding the fulfillment of certain prophetic events.

Articles of possibly related interest may include:

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?  This new article goes over , in much more detail, the biblical reasons why a a third Jewish temple in Jerusalem is not necessary.
Is There A Secret Rapture for the Church? When and Where is the Church Protected? What does the Bible really teach? Who really is left behind?
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.
Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 This article explains how the LCG views this, and compares this to Ellen White.

Superconducting quadrupole electromagnets are used in the LHC to direct the beams to four intersection points where interactions between protons will take place.

COGwriter

Why pay attention to prophecy and world news events?

Because Jesus told us repeatedly to “watch” (Matthew 24:42; 25:13; Mark 13:33-37; Luke 21:36), and He meant world prophetically-related events as part of that watch:

34 “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. 35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:34-36, NKJV).

The Apostle Peter wrote:

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed (2 Peter 1:19, KJV).

Part of the reason to watch events and understand Bible prophecy is so that we will not affected by those who promote false doctrines or claim that the end can come before the Bible allows it (cf. Ephesians 4:14).

For example, notice the following news item:

But of course, the end cannot come next week. Nor as I pointed out before, could it come last week (see September 10th is Not the End of the World).

And while the Large Hadron Collider is a sign that Europe is becoming the world leader in physics (see Europa, the Beast, and Revelation) and it may lead to Europe developing military technology that will temporarily allow it to be THE military power of the world for 3 1/2 years, certain other biblically required events simply have not yet occurred (e.g. Daniel 9:27–which strongly supports the view that the Great Tribulation itself cannot begin for at least 3 1/2 years from now–the one “week” it mentions represents a total of seven years), thus those of us who have that “sure word of prophecy” do not become scared when extremists, self-appointed prophets, etc. declare that certain dates will be the end of the world (I have denounced about 6-7 of them in 2008 thus far and did it BEFORE their dates were proven false).

To address why prophecy is important, in his latest weekly update, LCG’s Dr. Douglas Winnail wrote the following:

Pay Attention to Prophecy: Jesus told His disciples to stay alert and to watch for the fulfillment of specific prophesied events that will mark the approaching end of this age (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21).  Jesus also warned in the parable of the foolish virgins that many will be caught napping and unprepared by the surge of events that will precede His return to this earth (Matthew 25:1-13).  The Apostle Paul admonished Christians, “do not despise prophecies”—don’t take prophecy lightly (1 Thessalonians 5:20).  Do we really appreciate that God has given His Church a “more sure word of prophecy” (2 Peter 1:19, KJV) so we can warn this world about the prophetic significance of both current and impending world events (Ezekiel 3 and 33)? Some misguided teachers have ridiculed the prophetic understanding that God has given to His Church and accused members of “prediction addiction” while other self-proclaimed prophets attempt to attract followers by coming up with their own particular twist on Bible prophecies—in spite of the fact that the Bible clearly states that “no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation” (2 Peter 1:20).  As we see world events building to a historic prophetic crescendo, let’s make sure that we are building a closer relationship with God and that we are not only paying attention to prophecy, but also learning to live by every word of God (Matthew 4:4).

Prophecy assures us that God is in charge and that His will will be done.  The faithful do not have to fear what humans can say or do. Notice what Jesus said in one of the most reassuring of the prophecies:

Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom (Luke 12:32, NKJV).

The Bible is clear that certain events need to occur before the end comes.  And that includes us all growing in “grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18, NKJV).

Part of that knowledge is prophetic.  And part of that biblical knowledge tells us that the world will not end next week.

Several 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? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? There is a Mayan calendar prediction for change in 2012. 2012 changes were also centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans (the Hindus may have some predictions for the next decade as well). Do these Mayan/Hindu/Hopi prophecies have any value? Why might Satan have inspired this date? Does the Dresden codex show destruction of the earth by flood? Can the great tribulation start before 2012?
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.
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? When does the six thousand years of human rule end?

Bas-relief at Angkor Wat, dated circa 1150, depicting a demon performing an abortion by pounding a mallet into a woman’s belly.

COGwriter

Democratic vice-presidential nominee Joseph Biden has been in the news lately:

Abortion: Hypocrite Catholic Joe Biden

By J. Grant Swank Jr. (09/11/08)

Roman Catholic of sorts Joe Biden says that he believes life begins at conception. But as a Roman Catholic, he does not want to impose his in-line-with-Vatican ethic on others. http://www.americandaily.com/article/23099

Zenit.org, a Vatican-supporting news service had the following related article:

DENVER, Colorado, SEPT. 8, 2008 (Zenit.org).- NBC’s “Meet the Press” has inadvertently become the stage for some Catholic politicians to display “flawed moral reasoning,” according to the bishops of Denver.

In the second statement in two weeks responding to comments made by Catholic politicians on the Sunday morning program, Archbishop Charles Chaput and Auxiliary Bishop James Conley of Denver are telling politicians “who describe themselves as Catholic,” to begin to “act accordingly.”

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi appeared first on the program in late August. When asked to comment on when life begins, she said that as a Catholic she had studied the issue for “a long time” and that “the doctors of the Church have not been able to make that definition.”

Senator Joseph Biden, Senator Barack Obama’s running mate on the Democratic presidential ticket, appeared on the same program last Sunday. The senator “compounded the problem” with his explanation of when life begins, according to the bishops.

The senator said that although he knows “when [life] begins for me,” he claimed it to be fundamentally a “personal and private issue.”

And, even though as a Catholic he is “prepared to accept the teachings of my Church,” the senator said that in a pluralistic society it would be “inappropriate” to “impose that judgment on everyone else.”

Always wrong

In the wake of Pelosi’s appearance on “Meet the Press,” Cardinal Justin Rigali, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, and Bishop William Lori, chairman of the Committee on Doctrine, responded that her answer “misrepresented the history and nature of the authentic teaching of the Catholic Church against abortion.”

The prelates noted that since the first century the Church has “affirmed the moral evil of every abortion.”

A series of statements were released by other bishops across the United States, including Archbishop Donald Wuerl of Washington, D.C.; Archbishop Charles Chaput and Auxiliary Bishop James Conley of Denver; Cardinal Edward Egan, archbishop of New York; Archbishop John Nienstedt of St. Paul and Minneapolis; Bishop Samuel Aquila of Fargo, North Dakota; Cardinal Francis George, archbishop of Chicago; and Archbishop George Niederauer of San Francisco.

Responding to the comments of Biden, the bishops of Denver refuted the claim that the moment when life begins is “a personal and private issue.”

“Modern biology knows exactly when human life begins,” they explained, “at the moment of conception.”

“Religion has nothing to do with it,” the prelates continued. “People might argue when human ‘personhood’ begins — though that leads public policy in very dangerous directions — but no one can any longer claim that the beginning of life is a matter of religious opinion.”…

The statement continues: “If we claim to be Catholic, then American Catholics, including public officials who describe themselves as Catholic, need to act accordingly.

“We need to put an end to Roe and the industry of permissive abortion it enables. Otherwise all of us — from senators and members of Congress, to Catholic laypeople in the pews — fail not only as believers and disciples, but also as citizens.”

Now I agree with the Catholic bishops about when life begins and that abortion is wrong.

But the problem with that is that the Catholic Church itself has allowed abortions in the third century and certain other later ones–thus suggesting that it has always opposed them is simply not true.  Beginning with the simonist Bishop Callistus in the early third century, various Bishops of Rome have allowed abortions.

The Catholic Encyclopedia reported:

Callistus allowed the lower clergy to marry, and permitted noble ladies to marry low persons and slaves, which by the Roman law was forbidden; he had thus given occasion for infanticide (Chapman, John. “Pope Callistus I.” The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 3. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1908. 11 Sept. 2008 <http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/03183d.htm>).

Another writer reported:

Most Catholics are not aware that the infallible Church and popes have changed their minds several times on this topic–unthinkable from today’s perspective.

From the fifth century onward, Aristotle’s view that the embryo goes through stages from vegetable to animal to spiritual was accepted. Only in the final stage was it human. Thus Gregory VI (1045-6) said, “He is not a murderer who brings about abortion before the soul is in the body.” Gregory XIII (1572-85) said it was not homicide to kill an embryo of less than 40 days since it wasn’t yet human. His successor, Sixtus V, who rewrote the Bible, disagreed. His Bull of 1588 made all abortions for any reason homicide and cause for excommunication. His successor, Gregory XIV, reversed that decree. In 1621 the Vatican issued another pastoral directive permitting abortion up to 40 days (Hunt D. A Women Rides the BeastHarvest House Publishers, Eugene (OR), 1994, pp. 519-520).

I, of course, remain opposed to abortion and believe that the true Church of God always has been.  Abortion is one of the areas that the Church of Rome has sometimes compromised on.  While it is good that it is not wishing to compromise on it now, the truth is that history shows that the Church of Rome has allowed abortions.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Which Is Faithful: The Roman Catholic Church or the Living 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.
“Pope” Callistus (217-222) He is the first bishop known to have been a criminal prior to his election. He was also accused of a variety of corrupt acts, including allowing indulgences and infanticide (abortion).
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.
Abortion, the Bible, and a Woman’s Right to Choose Do you know what the Bible teaches on this?
Should a Christian Vote? This article gives some of the Biblical rationale on this subject. Would Jesus vote for president? Is voting in the Bible? This is a subject Christians need to understand.
There are Many COGs: Why Support the Living Church of God? This is an article for those who wish to easily sort out the different COGs. It really should be a MUST READ for current and former WCG members or any interested in supporting the faithful church. It also explains a lot of what the COGs are all about.