Church of God News

“Orthodox” 16th Century Representation of the “Apocalypse”

COGwriter

The following was also on the news last night:

Cardinal Stafford criticizes Obama as ‘aggressive, disruptive and apocalyptic’

What about Barack Obama and prophecy? How may Barack Obama be “apocalyptic”?  Here are 8 possible ways, eight reasons why:

1. The timing of his election.  It may be that there are only two presidential terms left before the Great Tribulation (Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End?) and the fulfillment of related prophecies in the Book of Revelation (called the Apocalypse by most Catholics).  Barack Obama’s very presence (as well as his planned and unplanned actions) should be enough to enable the fulfillment of various end-time prophecies.
2. As one with a Luo Kenyan father, Barack Obama (see also Kenya Rejoices as Obama Wins) may be part of the fulfillment of Deuteronomy 28:43.
3. Since the Roe vs. Wade pro-abortion decision, the USA has became the greatest debtor nation in the history of humankind.  Since the USA owes alien nations trillions of dollars, it appears that the curse in Deuteronomy 28:44 of having to borrow from aliens is happening to it now.  Barack Obama has indicated that he will support economic policies that will likely increase that debt.  Yet, the Bible specifically warns that increasing national debt like this will lead to destruction in Habakkuk 2:6-8 (see also Anglo – America in Prophecy).
4. One of the first actual changes that Barack Obama is expected to implement is reversing certain executive orders that will likely lead to more abortions (see Obama May Quickly Encourage Additional Abortions).  Yet, abortion is wrong (see Abortion, the Bible, and a Woman’s Right to Choose).
5. To a great degree, women put him in power (see Women Chose Barack Obama).  The Bible specifically warns about women ruling (Isaiah 3:12).  It has been suggested that the highest cabinet post in Barack Obama’s administration may go to Hillary Clinton.  Barack Obama will also often need to heed the advice of Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the US House of Representatives (who has been criticized for her pro-abortion stance, see Vatican Offical Says No to Biden and Pelosi, But Not to Palin).
6. Barck Obama has pledged increased cooperation with the Europeans.  This cooperation is likely to lead to the rise of the prophesied King of the North, who is to be the final leader of the Beast of Revelation.
7. Barack Obama has called for increased dialogue with those considered as enemies of the USA.  Even Shiite Muslims believe that his presidency may lead to the rise of their Madhi (see Barack Obama in Islamic Prophecy?), who seems to be the same person that the Bible calls the King of the South.
8. An increase of military action in Afghanistan, which candidate Barack Obama continually called for, may stretch USA military commitments.  Because of domestic economic concerns and international pressures, Barack Obama is likely to shift priorities away from defense spending and encourage the Europeans to increase their military might.  This will lead to the destruction of the United States, when the Europeans are ready and the USA is not.

The truth is that Barack Obama seems well meaning and he is trying to encourage the Americans to back him as he works on his economic agenda.  Americans are so concerned about the economy that most do not care that the policies that Barack Obama will likely implement within his first several weeks of office will result in more abortions and other sins in this nation.

President-elect Obama needs our prayers.  The Apostle Paul wrote:

1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:1-4).

Without national repentance, the United States is doomed for destruction.  The focus needs to be on turning to the God of the Bible and not simply on the hope that President-elect Obama will somehow stave off economic disaster for 4-5 years while ignoring the nation’s sins.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled since he is to be the USA president?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? Are there biblical and non-biblical prophecies about Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist?
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 Carries Hindu Monkey God Although there are some strange and false stories about Barack Obama, this one seems to be true.
Barack Obama is Not the Antichrist Some have suggested that he may be, but he cannot be.  Find out why.
Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 This article explains how the LCG views this, and compares this to Ellen White.  Neither John McCain nor Barack Obama are 666.
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?

Flag of the Taliban

COGwriter

The following news item has potentially prophetic ramifications:

Why is this potentially prophetic?

The Bible teaches that a military leader will rise up in Europe (Revelation 13:4).

Catholic prophecies foretell that just prior to the emergence of their “Great Monarch” (called the Great King below) problems will begin to afflict Catholics in Europe, essentially because the Catholics there tend to be lax.

Several Catholic writers have referred to this as the “minor chastisement”.  Notice the writings of one of them:

At some time in the future, the corrupt faithless age we live in now will come to an end either through repentance (immediately followed by an age of peace)–or there will be a chastisement. This would be a Minor Chastisement preceding an Age of Peace. It is not the Tribulation of the Antichrist…

Civil war breaks out in France and Italy at almost the same time. This is the sign given by many prophets that the Chastisement has begun…

This will spread to general wars, and, famine and pestilence (the usual by-products of war)…

Some Moslems will cause great trouble for the Church and Europe in general…

The Great King will lead his forces to…victory…

The Great King will be crowned Holy Roman Emperor by the reigning Pope.

(Birch, DA. Trial, Tribulation & Triumph: Before During and After Antichrist. Queenship Publishing Company, Goleta (CA), 1996, pp. 553-555)

Furthermore, this chastisement, to a degree, seems to be forecasted by some Catholic writers to begin in France.

Notice the following Catholic private prophecy:

Jeanne le Royer (Sister of the Nativity). The storm began in France, and France shall be the first theatre of its ravages after having been its cradle. (Dupont Yves. Catholic Prophecy: The Coming Chastisement. TAN Books, Rockford (IL), 1973, p.59)

The fact that there were riots in Paris in 2005, might eventually be pointed to as “the first theatre of its ravages”, or possibly something that the Taliban does might.

Notice the other possibly related Catholic prophecies that involve France or simply Paris itself:

Foretelling the fall of France and England, the famous Jesuit Father Necton, said in 1772, “When England shall wane in power, the destruction of Paris will be near at hand” (Culligan E. The Last World War and the End of Time. The book was blessed by Pope Paul VI, 1966. TAN Books, Rockford (IL), p. 84).

The Ecstatic of Tours…”The revolution will spread to every French town. Wholesale slaughter will take place. This revolution will last only a few months but it will be frightful; blood will flow everywhere because the malice of the wicked will reach its highest pitch. Victims will be inumerable. Paris will look like a slaughter-house. Persecutions against the Church will be even greater, but it will not last long…

“The French people will ask for the good King, he who was chosen by God. He will come, this saviour whom God has spared for France, this King who is not wanted now because he is dear to God’s Heart. He will ascend to the throne; he will free the church and reassert the Pope’s rights…” (Dupont, p.37)

Bl. Anna-Maria Taigi (19th century). France shall fall into a frightful anarchy. The French shall have a desperate civil war in the course of which even old men will take up arms. The political parties, having exhausted their blood and their rage without being able to arrive at any satisfactory settlement, shall agree at the last extremity to have recourse to the Holy See. Then the Pope shall send to France a special legate…In consequence of the information received, His Holiness himself shall nominate a most Christian King for the government of France. (Dupont, p.45)

St. Caesarius of Arles (469-543): When the entire world, and in a special manner France, and in France more particularly the provinces of the north, of the east, and above all, that of Lorraine and Champagne, shall have been a prey to the greatest miseries and trials, then the provinces shall be succored by a prince who had been exiled in his youth, and who shall recover the crown of the lilies. This prince shall extend his dominion over the entire universe. At the same time there will be a great Pope, who will be most eminent in sanctity and most perfect in every quality. This Pope shall have with him the Great Monarch, a most virtuous man, who shall be a scion of the holy race of the French kings. This Great Monarch will assist the Pope in the reformation of the whole earth. Many princes and nations that are living in error and impiety shall be converted, and an admirable peace shall reign among men during many years, because the wrath of God shall be appeased through their repentance, penance, and good works. There will be one common law, only one faith, one baptism, one religion. All nations shall recognize the Holy See of Rome, and shall pay homage to the Pope. (Culleton, R. Gerald. The Prophets and Our Times. Nihil Obstat: L. Arvin. Imprimatur: Philip G. Scher, Bishop of Monterey-Fresno, November 15, 1941. Reprint 1974, TAN Books, Rockford (IL), pp. 126-127).

Hence, many Catholics are awaiting a time when some type of trouble starts in France.  And the Taliban seem to be saying that they would like to be the cause.

While I do not believe that these Catholic prophecies are inspired by God, the fact is that if the Taliban or others cause civil unrest in Europe, I do believe that the Europeans will rise up and turn to one or more military leaders to deal with this.

And the Bible shows that a military leader (sometimes called the King of the North) will be rising up soon to fulfill the role of the prophesied Beast.

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”? What is ahead for Europe?
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?
Do Certain Catholic Prophecies About Antichrist Warn Against Jesus? Will the final “Anti-Christ” be Jewish, insist on Saturday, be opposed to the trinity, and bring in the millennium? Catholic writings indicate this, but what does the Bible show?
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?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2009, 2010, or 2011? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?

The First Thanksgiving, painting by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris (1863–1930)

COGwriter

Nine days from now is the American holiday called Thanksgiving.   While the particular day chosen has no specific biblical significance, the concept certainly does.

The Bible, especially the Psalms, cry out that humans should thank God, and specifically His saints need to (Psalm 30:4).

The New Testament takes it a step further.  The New Testament states that we are to even rejoice if we are living in evil times:

15 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is… 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 5:15-20).

The Apostle Paul rejoiced in the Lord and advised contentment:

10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content (Philippians 4:10-11).

8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition (1 Tim 6:8-9).

(Perhaps that I should mention that by New Testament standards, almost everyone in Western nations would be considered “rich).)

Also recall that God had Paul warn and condemn the unthankful in these end times:

1 But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful (2 Timothy 3:1-2).

Yes, 2008 has been a shaky year.  Yes, the 6000 years given to humanity to rule itself under Satan’s sway is almost over (Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End?).  Yes, the outlook for the Anglo-American powers without massive repentance is disastrous (Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel and Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States).

But the God of heaven does have a plan (Universal Offer of Salvation: There Are Hundreds of Verses in the Bible Supporting the Doctrine of True Apocatastasis).  His plan will be accomplished.  And that is part of why He sent his son:

…thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:57-58).

Give thanks.

An article of possibly related interest may be:

Thanksgiving: A Time To Give Thanks and Praise the LORD Is this American holiday appropriate? Why or why not?

Northern Shore of Reykjavík, Iceland

COGwriter

Over a month ago (see Iceland Crumbling: EU its Hope?), I reported that Iceland may decide its needed to change from its historical opposition to joining the EU.  The fact that Iceland is in shock over its economy (see Iceland in Shock), has now affected its position as the following news item today reported:

Iceland’s prime minister has announced the set-up of a commission to investigate joining the European Union.

An initial plan has already been drafted by the country’s foreign ministry that would see a membership application made in early 2009, aiming for entry some time in 2011, according to a report in the Financial Times which appeared at the weekend.

The prime minister, Geir Haarde, also said that his centre-right Independence Party would hold its 2009 conference in January instead of October as scheduled, to consider EU membership.

In announcing the move on Friday (14 November), Mr Haarde said “We have always said that we will assess at any given time how we co-operate with Europe.”

“This process will help us make our future decisions.”

Until now, Iceland has never applied for EU membership, and the population has historically been strongly opposed to the idea.

After the bottom falling out of the Icelandic banking sector and a run on the currency in recent weeks, many are now convinced of the need to adopt the euro, but EU officials have repeatedly told the north Atlantic nation that the euro cannot be adopted without joining the union first.

The crisis has sharply boosted support for EU membership in Iceland, climbing to a current 70 percent http://euobserver.com/9/27121

Iceland, in my view, gives the EU additional geographical reach that may better allow the EU to destroy the USA, probably in the next decade.

The economic shock that the Icelandic residents are now feeling will pale in comparison to the shock Anglo-Americans will experience when the European Beast power fully forms and makes its first major military strike outside its own boundaries.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2009, 2010, or 2011? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
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”? What is ahead for Europe?
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 devastated first?
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled since he is to be the USA president?
Kenya Rejoices as Obama Wins This is a follow-up to the Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States news item and contains additional information about him, prophecies, and his background.  And when the United States and its Anglo-allies may be destroyed.
Barak Obama in Islamic Prophecy? There is actually a 17th century Shiite prophecy that some believe that Barack Obama will fulfill that will lead to a rising up of Islam.

Pantheon of Rome: A Symbol of Unity Among Confusion

COGwriter

The following item was in the news:

Sant’Egidio Peace Meeting Draws Orthodox

Cyprus Hosts This Year’s Prayer Event

Have you heard of Theodore (also known as Theodoros) II?  Notice what Wikipedia reports about his titles:

Patriarch Theodore (Theodoros) II of Alexandria (born Nikolaos Horeftakis on November 25, 1954) is the current Eastern Orthodox Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and all Africa. He is formally styled His Divine Beatitude the Pope and Patriarch of the Great City of Alexandria, Libya, Pentapolis, Ethiopia, All Egypt and All Africa, Father of Fathers, Pastor of Pastors, Prelate of Prelates, the Thirteenth of the Apostles and Judge of the Ecumene. He is the leader of the Greek Orthodox Church in Africa and Madagascar.

Seems a bit presumptuous.

So is the claim that his church has “apostolic succession”.

Early Alexandria was so heretical that even modern Protestant scholars condemn it.

The old Alexandrian Catechetical School clearly had problems as the noted Protestant theologian John Walvoord has pointed out:

In the last ten years of the second century and in the third century the heretical school of theology at Alexandria, Egypt advanced the erroneous principle that the Bible should be interpreted in a nonliteral or allegorical sense.  In applying this to the Scriptures, they subverted all the major doctrines of faith…the Alexandrian school of theology is labeled by all theologians as heretical…(Walvoord, John F.  The Prophecy Handbook.  Victor Books, Wheaton (IL), 1990, pp. 9,15).

Clement of Alexandria mixed gnosticism with his form of Christianity:

Unlike Irenaeus who detested it, Clement refers to secret tradition, and his affinities to gnosticism seems to go beyond mere borrowing of gnostic terms (Brown HOJ. Heresies: Heresy and Orthodoxy in the History of the Church. Hendrickson Publishers, Peabody (MA), 1988, p. 87).

In other words, many scholars understand that Clement of Alexandria (who was the founder of that old Alexandrian Catechetical School), who is often listed as a major leader in Alexandria held a lot of Gnostic and other heretical views.

Furthermore, even though they seem to wish to overlook it now, even Roman Catholic scholars realize that Clement was suspect and that Alexandria did not clearly have any bishops until the latter part of the second century.  Notice what The Catholic Encyclopedia essentially admits:

Clement was an early Greek theologian and head of the catechetical school of Alexandria...Alexandria was, in addition, one of the chief seats of that peculiar mixed pagan and Christian speculation known as Gnosticism…Conservative scholars are inclined to believe that Photius has thrown the mistakes of Clement, whatever they may have been, into undue relief…

In the “Miscellanies” Clement disclaims order and plan…God’s truth is to be found in revelation, another portion of it in philosophy. It is the duty of the Christian to neglect neither. Religious science, drawn from his twofold source, is even an element of perfection, the instructed Christian — “the true Gnostic” is the perfect Christian (Havey, Francis. “Clement of Alexandria.” The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 4. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1908. 17 Nov. 2008 <http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04045a.htm>).

Demetrius is the first Alexandrian bishop of whom anything is known…Demetrius encouraged Origen when blamed for his too literal execution of an allegorical counsel of our Lord, and is said to have shown him great favour…In 230 Demetrius gave Origen a recommendation to take with him on his journey to Athens (Chapman J. Transcribed by Gary Mros. The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume IV. Copyright © 1908 by Robert Appleton Company. Online Edition Copyright © 2003 by K. Knight. Nihil Obstat. Remy Lafort, Censor. Imprimatur. +John M. Farley, Archbishop of New York).

Demetrius is in the list of successors for the Orthodox Church of Alexandria from 188-231. During that time, Demetrius encouraged the heretics Clement of Alexander and later Origen (before eventually renouncing Origen) with their Alexandrian Catechetical School. Thus, no one in the Living Church of God would consider that those who claim to be his successor are truly successors of the apostles.

While Theodore II probably knows about the history of his claimed “apostolic see”, if he has publicly denounced his claims to apostolic succession, etc., I have not heard it.

But he should.  The Orthodox (and others) who are having more meetings with the Church of Rome and who seem bent upon ecumenical unity with them need to understand that this is not something that the Bible indicates that they should do.  Actually, they are warned against it (Revelation 18:4-5).

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Some Similarities and Differences Between the Orthodox Church and the Living Church of God Both groups claim to be the original church, but both groups have differing ways to claim it. Both groups have some amazing similarities and some major differences. Do you know what they are?
Orthodox Must Reject Unity with the Roman Catholics There is a plan to bring the Orthodox back into unity with Rome, but the Bible warns against it, see why and what the Orthodox should do.
Marcus and the Marcosians: Developers of the Eucharist? Marcus was a second century heretic condemned for having a ceremony similar to one still practiced by many who profess Christ. Might he also be in the apostolic succession list of the Orthodox Church of Alexandria?
Apostolic Succession What really happened? Did structure and beliefs change? Are many of the widely-held current understandings of this even possible? Did you know that Catholic scholars really do not believe that several of the claimed “apostolic sees” of the Orthodox have apostolic succession–despite the fact that the current pontiff himself seems to wish to ignore this view?  Is there actually a true church that has ties to any of the apostles that is not part of the Catholic or Orthodox churches?  Read this article if you truly are interested in the truth on this matter!

The View From the Cave in Patmos:

COGwriter

We in the Living Church of God believe that the true church knew the New Testament once Jesus had the Apostle John write the final book, which he did from an island called Patmos (Revelation 1:9).  John then conveyed this information to others in the true church such as Polycarp of Smyrna.

Catholics, agnostics, atheists, and many others generally do not share this view.

But there are scriptures, as well as non-COG scholars, that support the view of the Living Church of God.

The Old Testament Book of Isaiah prophesied that the LORD’s disciples would bind up and seal the Bible. Notice the following:

Bind up the testimony, Seal the law among my disciples (Isaiah 8:16).

While other portions of this article have shown that various of Christ’s disciples were involved, the above verse suggests that there would be no additions “to the law and to the testimony” (an expression for the Bible, see Isaiah 8:20), after those disciples were gone. Isaiah is thus indicating that the original disciples would have finalized the New Testament–that would include people such as Peter, Paul, and John.

As the longest surviving of the original apostles, John would have seen more problems with false teachers professing Christianity than possibly all the other apostles. Since John wrote the last books of the New Testament and was the longest surviving disciple, the Old Testament clearly supports that he would be the final one to bind up the testimony and seal the law.

The New Testament also suggests that disciple John finalized the Bible through his writing of the Book of Revelation,

For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; And if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book (Revelation 22:18-19).

While it is possible that he is only referring to the Book of Revelation when he penned the above, as the last New Testament writer, it would seem that God had him put in the above statement to show that the Bible, and not just Revelation, was finalized.

Since “the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy” (Revelation 19:10) and Jesus is the Word (John 1:1, 19), it makes sense that Revelation 22:18-19 is, at least in a sense, referring to the fact that none were to add to the word of God. And that this was the last intended book of the canon for the Church age.

Even some Protestant theologians understand that Revelation 22:18-19 supports the concept that the canon was then finalized. Notice what is stated in Matthew Henry’s Commentary:

Rev 22:6-19
It is confirmed by a most solemn sanction, condemning and cursing all who should dare to corrupt or change the word of God, either by adding to it or taking from it, v. 18, 19. He that adds to the word of God draws down upon himself all the plagues written in this book; and he who takes any thing away from it cuts himself off from all the promises and privileges of it. This sanction is like a flaming sword, to guard the canon of the scripture from profane hands. Such a fence as this God set about the law (Deut 4:2), and the whole Old Testament (Mal 4:4), and now in the most solemn manner about the whole Bible, assuring us that it is a book of the most sacred nature, divine authority, and of the last importance, and therefore the peculiar care of the great God (from Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible: New Modern Edition, Electronic Database. Copyright (c) 1991 by Hendrickson Publishers, Inc.)

Interestingly, in all of his epistles John repeatedly warns about false ones who try to influence Christians (1 John 2:4; 2:18-19; 3:10; 4:1; 2 John 7; 3 John 9-19). Hence, this may be part of why God had John write the passage in Revelation 22.

John also wrote,

And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written (John 21:25).

This statement, combined with his writings in Revelation 22:18-19, show that only certain things needed to be written and only certain writings accepted as scripture. Thus, it is logical to conclude that he, the last of the original apostles, finalized the NT canon (cf. Isaiah 8:16).

But why else would John have been the one?

John was the last of the original apostles that Jesus, while on the Earth, personally selected. And although the first proper baptisms in Ephesus were apparently done by Paul (Acts 19:1-6), it is John who was there later. Even the Catholic Encyclopedia admits that John was in charge of the church at Ephesus,

…the Apostle and Evangelist John lived in Asia Minor in the last decades of the first century and from Ephesus had guided the Churches of that province (St. John the Evangelist, 1910).

It is important to note that the Church of Ephesus is the first of the seven churches mentioned in Revelation 1:11 as well as the first of the seven in Revelations to receive an individual letter that ends with “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (see chapters 2 & 3).

Since these Churches are shown to those whom Christ walks in the midst of (2:1), it is logical that the first one would have received the entire, properly canonized, NT. The one that John personally oversaw. The same John who wrote that nothing should be added or taken away from the word of prophecy. The same John whose disciple Polycarp became in charge of the Church at Smyrna (the second of the seven churches of Revelation).

Doesn’t it make sense that before John died that he would pass on his knowledge of which books should be part of the New Testament canon? And does it not make sense that this would be to Polycarp , the one who appeared to be his most faithful disciple?

Furthermore, John even records that Jesus told him to write Revelation as a book and send it to the Churches in Asia Minor. Look what Jesus said:

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last,” and, “What you see, write in a book and send it to the seven churches which are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea” (Revelation 1:11).

Thus it is clear that the last book of the New Testament was sent to the seven churches in Asia Minor, including Smyrna!

The simple truth is that the Church in Asia Minor did have the canon to both the Old and the New Testaments (more information can be found in the article The Old Testament Canon).

Another reason it is logical to conclude that the Church in Asia Minor would have the entire New Testament is because most of the New Testament was written to or from church leaders in Asia Minor.

There are 27 books of the NT. At least 10 books of the New Testament directly written to the church leaders in Asia Minor. The ones written to those in Asia Minor include Galatians, Ephesians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Timothy (Timothy was in Ephesus), Philemon, 1 Peter, 3 John, and Revelation. In addition to these 10, there may be more as 1 & 2 John and 2 Peter, and possibly Jude may have also been mainly directed to one or more of the churches in Asia Minor (which would make 14 of them). According to The Ryrie Study Bible John’s Gospel, 1 Corinthians, 1 & 2 John, and possibly Philippians were written from Ephesus. It is also likely that some others, like Acts were written at least partially from Asia Minor. So at least 15 books were written to or from Asia Minor, with possibly up to 17 of them.

What this clearly shows, is that although there were Christians in various areas, the focus for the New Testament writers were the churches in Asia Minor. And interestingly, the last book of the Bible is specifically addressed to the churches of Asia Minor (Revelation 1:4,11).

From Outside The Bible

Much, though not all, of what comes to us about the Bible in the second century comes from leaders, in Asia Minor, such as Polycarp, who was one of the earliest post-NT writers.

Polycarp’s Epistle to the Philippians (circa 110-135 A.D.) is written in the manner of one quite familiar with the New Testament as it starts out similar to some of Paul’s writings.

And according to the portion of Charles Leach’s book, Our Bible: How We Got It (1898) where he discusses Polycarp’s epistle,

In the whole Epistle, which occupies but ten minutes to read, we find the language of Matthew, Luke, John, and the Acts of the Apostles; of the Epistle of Peter; and of Paul’s Epistles to the Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Thessalonians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Timothy, and Titus. Here, then, we get a link in our chain which connects us to the actual writers of the New Testament, and assures us, beyond all possibility of doubt, that the contents of our New Testament were in the hands of the men who lived before the last of the Apostles were dead.

Actually, there are many more than that–nearly all the New Testament books are quoted from or alluded to (see the annotated second version of the Epistle to the Philippians as it contains many citations to show were Polycarp seems to be referring to those New Testament books).

This clearly demonstrates that Polycarp had to have had a complete NT canon. In addition to the 17 books listed above, I believe that Polycarp may also have referred to John (15:8 “you bear much fruit; so that you will be my disciples”), Colossians (3:12 “elect of God”), 2 John 4 (“rejoiced greatly”), Revelation (22:14-15 “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life…But outside are whoever loves and practices a lie”).

Why?

Because Polycarp’s Epistle to the Philippians is so short, that to actually allude to most of the accepted books of the NT, he really would have needed to be familiar with the entire New Testament.

In addition, Polycarp made it clear that those he wrote to had the correct Bible otherwise he would not have written:

For I trust that ye are well versed in the Sacred Scriptures, and that nothing is hid from you; but to me this privilege is not yet granted. It is declared then in these Scriptures, “Be ye angry, and sin not,” and, “Let not the sun go down upon your wrath.” (Polycarp. Letter to the Philippians. From Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 1as edited by Alexander Roberts & James Donaldson. American Edition, 1885).

Note that Polycarp quoted a verse that is in the New Testament, when he used the term Scriptures.

Furthermore, it was one of Polycarp’s successors (Melito) who listed the books of the Old Testament around 170 A.D. Melito wrote,

I accordingly proceeded to the East, and went to the very spot where the things in question were preached and took place; and, having made myself accurately acquainted with the books of the Old Testament, I have set them down (Reid G. Canon of the Old Testament. Transcribed by Ernie Stefanik. The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume III. Copyright © 1908 by Robert Appleton Company. Online Edition Copyright © 2003 by K. Knight . Nihil Obstat, November 1, 1908. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

As the scholar Wace points out,

“The expressions “the Old Books,” “the Books of the O.T.,” shew clearly that the church of Melito’s time had a New Testament canon”.

Wace also noted that Melito’s other writings show that he must have accepted the Gospel according to John as scripture, as Wace wrote,

“Melito held the same theory concerning our Lord’s age as Irenaeus and other Asiatics, derived no doubt from John viii. 57. The whole passage shews that Melito believed strongly in the atoning efficacy of Christ’s death, and looked on Him as the sacrificial lamb. The word he uses is amnoV, as in the Gospel”.

Other scholars, such as the late James Moffatt, have recognized that the church in Asia Minor had the canon first:

Was not the Apostolic Canon of scripture first formed…in Asia Minor? Was not Asia Minor ahead of Rome in the formation of the Apostolic, Episcopal, ministry?…The real thinking upon vital Christianity for centuries was done outside the Roman Church (Excerpt of James Moffatt’s review, p.292. In: Bauer W. Orthodoxy and Heresy in Earliest Christianity, 2nd ed. Sigler Press Edition, Mifflinown (PA), 1996).

Thus, both the Bible and even non-COG sources support the position of the Living Church of God that the Apostle John essentially finalized the New Testament and that knowledge of it was passed on to the leadership of the Church in Asia Minor.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

The Old Testament Canon This article shows from Catholic accepted writings, that the Old Testament used by non-Roman Catholics and non-Orthodox churches is the correct version.
The New Testament Canon – From the Bible Itself This article, shows from the Bible and supporting sources, why the early Church knew which books were part of the Bible and which ones were not.
Polycarp’s Letter to the Philippians Did Polycarp refer to all the books of the New Testament in the early 2nd century? This is Roberts and Donaldson’s translation, corrected by me in one place, where they made a small error in translating Latin by omitting one word.
Polycarp of Smyrna: The Heretic Fighter Polycarp was the successor of the Apostle John and a major leader in Asia Minor. Do you know much about what he taught?
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?
Apostolic Succession What really happened? Did structure and beliefs change? Are many of the widely-held current understandings of this even possible? Did you know that Catholic scholars really do not believe that several of the claimed “apostolic sees” of the Orthodox have apostolic succession–despite the fact that the current pontiff himself seems to wish to ignore this view?  Is there actually a true church that has ties to any of the apostles that is not part of the Catholic or Orthodox churches?  Read this article if you truly are interested in the truth on this matter!
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. Português: Qual é fiel: A igreja católica romana ou a igreja viva do deus? Tambien Español: Cuál es fiel: ¿La iglesia católica romana o La Iglesia del Dios Viviente? Auch: Deutsch: Welches zuverlässig ist: Die Römisch-katholische Kirche oder die lebende Kirche von Gott?
Joyce’s Photos of Patmos Late in his life, the Apostle John reportedly was taken to Rome from Ephesus, then suddenly exiled to Patmos, by Emperor Domitian.

Northern Thailand Tribal Girls

COGwriter

Last night I received the latest newsletter from Legacy Institute’s Leon Sexton (who is based in northern Thailand).   But before getting to the world news in it, he mentioned that he was recovering from personal health problems:

God has been merciful and I am making steady progress every day. Please continue praying that God will give me clear eyesight and that my right arm will return to normal particularly my finger dexterity – so that I can type again.

He also reported:

Bangkok’s English language newspapers entitled “CHINA EMERGING AS NEW POWER”15. Here are some quotes from that article:

“Are the days of the dollar as a currency reserve numbered?

“With US financial institutions seeking bail-outs with the federal government’s money, New York is losing its shine as the world’s financial centre. And along with the precipitate fall of New York, the US dollar is also losing its status as the de-facto international reserve currency.

“Last Tuesday, three days after the Asia-Europe Summit (Asem) in Beijing, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao headed to Russia on an official visit, where he shared strong misgivings about the US with Russian leaders.

“Wen raised two important points: developing countries should have a stronger say in a new financial system; and the global currency system should be diversified, a tactical way of saying the dollar’s role as anchor of the world’s reserve-currency system would have to diminish.”16

America’s days as the world’s financial center are clearly numbered as the U.S. dollar loses international support. And yet America is leading the world toward some sort of global financial entity that will control all financial institutions in the world and probably create a single world currency.

In a sermon on July 7, 1984, the late Herbert W. Armstrong reported:

And I can see now, the event that is going to trigger the formation of the reunification in Europe; the resurrection of the medieval Holy Roman Empire that we’ve been looking forward to that is prophesied to come…

But I believe that some event is going to happen suddenly just like out a blue sky that is going to shock the whole world and is going to cause the nations in Europe to realize they must unite! … Well now I think I can see what may be the very event that is going to trigger.., to that is the economic situation in the world…

The whole banking structure in the United States is a network all jointed together. But not only that, one nation has to deal with other nations and imports and exports. And so they have to have a means of transforming money from one nation to another. And so the banking structure is international and interwoven…

Now when the financial structure breaks down, all civilization is going to break down…

It is latest weekly update, LCG reported:

EU Desires to Lead the World Financially. “After last week’s informal EU summit, European leaders stated that the EU would like to be a trail-blazer in overcoming the world’s financial crisis… The days of the dollar’s uncontested predominance are over, and it is about time that the Euro’s growing importance is reflected in the rules of the world’s financial exchanges, French President Sarkozy declared in the name of the EU… Berlin and Brussels are demanding that ‘No financial institution, no market segment and no jurisdiction must escape proportionate and adequate regulation or at least oversight’” (German-Foreign-Policy.com, November 10, 2008). The World Financial Summit will be held this Saturday, November 15, in Washington. Analysts expect heated rhetoric and an EU push that opposes Washington’s traditional stance on deregulation. Early in his presidency, Mr. Obama will likely face the decision to stand fast on traditional principles that have guaranteed American sovereignty, or to submit to European oversight in the name of world peace and prosperity. Mr. Obama’s pre-election speeches strongly suggest that he will give into world pressure to submit to new international financial rules, possibly overseen by the EU, “for the good of the world.” And, he will have the authority to change U.S. financial policy (Stratfor.com, November 5, 2008). As the U.S. falls deeper into the financial abyss, accentuated by its international debt, God’s prophecy rings truer and truer, “the borrower is servant to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7).

So, America is at a crossroads.

As mentioned before, because of his election, Barack Obama will be one of the last, if not the last, president of the United States.  Because of that, though he will try to do what he thinks is best, it will ultimately lead to the European superstate rising and becoming the major economic player in the world (cf.  Revelation 18:15-24).

Interestingly, the French President Sarkozy’s comments, declared in the name of the EU that “No financial institution, no market segment and no jurisdiction must escape proportionate and adequate regulation or at least oversight”, certainly seems to be a prelude to a government that wants to have complete control over all aspects of finance.

Recall that the Bible warns of a Beast power with such interest:

16 He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, 17 and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. 18 Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666 (Revelation 13:16-18).

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled since he is to be the USA president?
Kenya Rejoices as Obama Wins This is a follow-up to the Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States news item and contains additional information about him, prophecies, and his background.  And when the United States and its Anglo-allies may be destroyed.
Barak Obama in Islamic Prophecy? There is actually a 17th century Shiite prophecy that some believe that Barack Obama will fulfill that will lead to a rising up of Islam.
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?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? When does the six thousand years of human rule end?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2009, 2010, or 2011? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
SDA/LCG Differences: Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 The Living Church of God is NOT part of the Seventh-day Adventists. This article explains two prophetic differences, the trinity, differences in approaching doctrine, including Ellen White.

Barack Obama

COGwriter

Once again, some are challenging Barack Obama’s citizenship:

Also notice:

“More than half a dozen other legal challenges have been filed in federal and state courts demanding Obama’s decertification from ballots or seeking to halt elector meetings, claiming he has failed to prove his U.S. citizenship status.”

“Among the states where cases are being tracked are Ohio, Connecticut, Washington, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia and Hawaii, and there were reports of other cases being developed in Utah, Wyoming, Florida, New York, North Carolina, Texas, California and Virginia.”

Full text at: http://worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=80931

Here is what Barack Obama’s “Fight the Smears” website states:

Smears claiming Barack Obama doesn’t have a birth certificate aren’t actually about that piece of paper — they’re about manipulating people into thinking Barack is not an American citizen.

The truth is, Barack Obama was born in the state of Hawaii in 1961, a native citizen of the United States of America.

Click here to see the Official Birth Certificate of Barack Obama being born in Hawaii.

As I have no reason to doubt Barack Obama on this, I have always taken him at his word that he is a U.S.A. citizen.  His mother was an American citizen, to the best of my knowledge, and that makes him a natural American citizen  (it only takes one parent in the USA for the child to be a citizen).  Also being born on American soil (Hawaii is a state and was one when he was born), even if neither parent was American, automatically makes one a natural USA citizen.

Unless there is some addition I have never seen, whether or not Barack Obama is technically entitled to dual or multiple citizenships is not a factor as far as the U.S. Constitution is concerned.

However, he is the first person born in Hawaii to be elected president and the first to be the son of a Kenyan.  And, that, combined with the timing of this election, indicates that Barack Obama may fulfill some biblical and non-biblical prophecies.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States Some claim that Barack Obama is the prophesied “son of Kenya”. Might Bible prophecy be fulfilled since he is to be the USA president?
Kenya Rejoices as Obama Wins This is a follow-up to the Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States news item and contains additional information about him, prophecies, and his background.  And when the United States and its Anglo-allies may be destroyed.
Barak Obama in Islamic Prophecy? There is actually a 17th century Shiite prophecy that some believe that Barack Obama will fulfill that will lead to a rising up of Islam.
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?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? When does the six thousand years of human rule end?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2009, 2010, or 2011? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?

Prince Charles

COGwriter

The following news item was of interest:

As the article points out historically, the throne of England was to support the Church of England.

But this type of change is not limited to Prince Charles.

Billy Graham, April 1966

According to E. Bynum, Billy Graham in 1948 taught against Catholicism, but a later he changed his mind:

In 1948, Graham said, “The three gravest menaces faced by orthodox Christianity are communism, Roman Catholicism, and Mohammedanism,” NOW, he is continually saying nice things about the Catholics. In 1963 Dr. Graham spoke at Belmont Abbey College, a North Carolina Catholic school. On Nov. 21, 1967, he returned to Belmont Abbey to receive an honorary degree. At that time he made a shocking statement. He said, that he “knew of no greater honor” than the receiving of this degree. Then the shocker comes when he said, “The gospel that built this school and the gospel that brings me here tonight is still the way to salvation”…

A disturbed Roman Catholic wrote Graham about some of the changes going on in the Catholic Church. In his answer, Graham wrote, “Above all, don’t pull out of the church! Stay in it, stay close to the Lord, and use these experiences as an opportunity to help your church be what God intends and what the world needs.” What an answer for a Baptist preacher to give. This was published in his newspaper column, “My Answer”.

Billy Graham says: “Anyone who makes a decision at our meetings is referred to a local clergyman, Protestant, Catholic, or Jewish.” (1957) Roman Catholic Cardinal Cushing said: “I am 100% for the evangelist . . . I have never known a religious crusade that was more effective than Dr. Graham’s. I have never heard the slightest criticism of anything he has ever said from any Catholic source.” (1964) In 1963 Billy Graham said that he had a Roman Catholic bishop stand beside him and bless the “converts” as they came forward in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (

Bynum EL. Why We Cannot Support The Billy Graham Crusade. Tract # G-603. TABERNACLE BAPTIST CHURCH, Lubbock, Texas)

Perhaps I should add that the falsely labeled magazine “Christianity Today” had a piece about Billy Graham that I read last week were he was explaining that he had become more supportive of the Church of Rome.

The fact is that neither the throne of England nor Billy Graham are willing to step out and defend THEIR original faith, let alone the true faith of the Bible. Both of these leaders represents clear changes within the Protestant world.

For example, notice what the 19th century Scottish religious historian and Presbyterian minister, James Aitken Wylie, most famous for writing The History of Protestantism, wrote: 

The Apostle John, speaking of the great apostasy to arise in Christendom, calls it the “Antichrist.” And the Pope has taken to himself, as the name that best describes his office, the title “Vicar of Christ.” All we shall ask as the basis of our argument are these two accepted facts, namely, that John styles the “apostasy,” “the Antichrist,” and that the head of the Roman system styles himself “Christ’s Vicar.”

The Papacy holds in its name the key of its meaning. We shall make use of that key in unlocking its mystery and true character. The Papacy cannot complain though we adopt this line of interpretation. We do nothing more than use the key it has put into our hands.

The Apostle John, we have said, speaking of the apostasy, the coming of which he predicts, styles it the “Antichrist.” And we have also said that the Papacy, speaking through its representative and head, calls itself the “Vicar of Christ.” The first, “Antichrist,” is a Greek word, the second, “Vicar,” is an English word; but the two are in reality one, for both words have the same meaning. Antichrist translated into English is Vice- Christ, or Vicar of Christ; and Vicar of Christ, rendered into Greek is Antichrist — Antichristos. If we can establish this, and the ordinary use of the word by those to whom the Greek was a vernacular, is decisive on the point — we shall have no difficulty in showing that this is the meaning of the word “Antichrist,” — even a Vice-Christ. And if so, then every time the Pope claims to be the Vicar of Christ, he pleads at the bar of the world that he is the “Antichrist.

(Wylie J.A. The Papacy is the Antichrist, A Demonstration. Chapter 1. Edinburgh, 1888.)

Yet, now many Protestants no longer believe doctrines like that.

Compromises with the Catholics of Rome clearly will help the Beast (see Europa, the Beast, and the Book of Revelation) and the False prophet (Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666) as they rise up (most likely in the next decade, see Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End?).

People need to be grounded in the Christianity of the Bible and not the compromised versions that the majority of those who profess Christ follow.

Of course, the Living Church of God is NOT Protestant as we trace our history back to the original apostles and do not hold many doctrines that the Protestants kept from the Church of Rome as opposed to the Bible.  And, I believe that, those who truly wish to follow the cry of sola Scriptura will be led by God to support us.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Hope of Salvation: How the Living Church of God differ from most Protestants How the Living Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants, is perhaps the question I am asked most by those without a Church of God background.
Sola Scriptura or Prima Luther? What Did Martin Luther Really Believe About the Bible? Though he is known for his public sola Scriptura teaching, did Martin Luther’s writings about the Bible suggest he felt that prima Luther was his ultimate authority? Statements from him changing and/or discounting 18 books of the Bible are included. Do you really want to know the truth?
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. Português: Qual é fiel: A igreja católica romana ou a igreja viva do deus? Tambien Español: Cuál es fiel: ¿La iglesia católica romana o La Iglesia del Dios Viviente? Auch: Deutsch: Welches zuverlässig ist: Die Römisch-katholische Kirche oder die lebende Kirche von Gott?
Some Similarities and Differences Between the Orthodox Church and the Living Church of God Both groups claim to be the original church, but both groups have differing ways to claim it. Both groups have some amazing similarities and some major differences. Do you know what they are?
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.
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?

Barack Obama

COGwriter

Forbes had an interesting article last month:

The above is astounding as it may, at minimum, encourage Muslims to further unite to form some type of confederation so that someone later can claim to be the Mahdi–a leader that many Muslims believe will lead to the Islamic conquering of the world (but the Bible shows that this confederation will fail, Daniel 11:40-43, also see King of the South ).

Interestingly, just before the presidential election, Iran’s Ahmadinejadsaid he did not care for either USA presidential candidate, but later seemed to change his mind once Barack Obama actually won (I suspect that if Iran’s government endorsed Barack Obama publicly prior to his election that this could have affected the voting in the USA).

In the news today, Barack Obama’s new chief of staff wanted to make it clear to the Arabs and Muslims that he would not be encourage Barack Obama to be pro-Israel:

Clearly the Islamic world in general seems to be somewhat pleased with Barack Obama.  And presumably they believe that his policies will be more supportive of their goals than those of George W. Bush.

Now, lest I start any unfounded rumors, I do not believe that Barack Obama is a secret Muslim.  Nor have I ever questioned his USA citizenship.

I do, however, strongly believe that because of the timing of his election and how close humankind is to the end of its 6,000 years of rule on the earth primarily cutoff from the true God (see Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End?), that Barack Obama will (probably inadvertently) support policies that will lead to the rise of the Islamic King of the South and ecumenically-Catholic European King of the North as well as to the bankrupting and ultimate destruction of the United States and its Anglo-Allies.

The United States and its Anglo-Allies will be destroyed and presuming he stays in office and wins a second term, there is a very high probability that this destruction will happen under a Barack Obama administration.

2010 UPDATE:  The following August 2010 item from James Zumwalt was of additional interest (and was added to this article on August 15, 2010):

Last April, Ahmadinejad wrote to President Barack Obama. To date, the White House has refused to release the letter. At a time the Obama Administration refuses to even recognize an Islamist threat exists, one can only wonder why its contents have yet to be released.  As the Koran states the Mahdi will not return in an odd-numbered year, as world chaos is to precipitate his reappearance, as Ahmadinejad claims the Mahdi’s return will occur before his presidency ends in 2013, as a dying Khamenei claims the return will happen before his death, and as Iran stands on the brink of arming itself with nuclear weapons, Khamenei and Ahmadinejad view the planets as all falling into alignment for them.

From the vantage point of these two fanatics, 2012 may be shaping up as the year of the Mahdi’s return. (Zumwalt J.  Iran’s Dynamic Duo Dedicated to Global Destruction.  August 13, 2010. http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=38528)

It may be that 2013 will see the emergence of the 12th Imam, the Imam Mahdi.  However, if this is the same individual that will be the final King of the South, contrary to what the Iranians tend to think, it will not be an Iranian leader.

If Barack Obama is not replaced by another black leader, then if the Shit’ite prophecy Forbes reported is correct, it would seem that the Imam Mahdi could rise up in 2013.  And that part seems to be consistent with biblical prophecy (although it could still be several years later_.

2013 is a year that Barack Obama and Ahmadinejad should, at least for a time, be presidents of their respective lands. Time may be close as the emergence of the final King of the South/Imam Mahdi does not have to wait long.  And thus, there seem to be some within the Islamic world that have prophecies that may be used to point to Barack Obama as partial proof of their fulfillment.

UPDATE 01/20/2013 Want to learn more?  The Barack Obama Administration has already began to fulfill at least a dozen predictions from my 2009 book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect.  I have now greatly expanded my research on prophecies associated with Barack Obama and now have a new book available for only US$9.98.  It is titled 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 what will happen to the United States.

WANT AN ELECTRONIC VERSION?  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.  Wouldn’t you like to learn even more about Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States?  You can have this information in minutes!

For those who prefer an actual physical book, Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States is available to order from www.barackobamaprophecy.com as a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many predictions that have already been fulfilled and those that will be fulfilled in the future.  It is US$9.98.  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.

Several articles of possibly related interest may include:

Kenya Rejoices as Obama Wins This is a follow-up to the Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States news item and contains additional information about him, prophecies, and his background.  And when the United States and its Anglo-allies may be destroyed.
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 Carries Hindu Monkey God Although there are some strange and false stories about Barack Obama, this one seems to be true.
Barack Obama is Not the Antichrist Some have suggested that he may be, but he cannot be.  Find out why.
Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 This article explains how the LCG views this, and compares this to Ellen White.  Neither John McCain nor Barack Obama are 666.
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2013 or 2014? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
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?
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? What does the Bible say?
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?