Archive for October, 2011

Saudi Prince Nayef and the King of the South

Friday, October 28th, 2011

جامعة الدول العربية
Jāmaʻat ad-Duwwal al-ʻArabiyya Arab League Flag

COGwriter

The situation in the Middle East may be affected by Prince Nayef of Saudi Arabia:

Prince Nayef may determine Saudi Arabia’s future

28 October 2011

Two views are emerging of Crown Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz al-Saud, the new heir to Saudi Arabia’s octogenarian King Abdullah and possible future ruler of the world’s top oil exporter…

To Saudi liberals, he represents the stern face of the kingdom’s conservative establishment: opposed to any moves toward democracy or women’s rights, a supporter of the religious police and the head of an ministry that locks up political activists without charge.

But former diplomats, local journalists and other members of the ruling family who have dealt with the prince paint a softer portrait of a man who has been at the center of Saudi politics for more than three decades.  http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/10/28/us-saudi-nayef-idUSTRE79R3EH20111028

October 28, 2011 9:22 am

Prince Naif named Saudi crown prince

“Everybody is scared Saudi Arabia will go backward in western terms. I am not,’’ said Robert Lacey, author of Inside the Kingdom.

Obama congratulates new Saudi crown prince

Los Angeles Times – ‎28 October 2011 p.m.

President Obama congratulated King Abdullah and the people of Saudi Arabia on Friday on the selection of Prince Nayif ibn Abdulaziz as the heir to the Saudi throne, and expressed his intent to continue America’s partnership with Nayif…http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/world_now/2011/10/obama-congratulates-new-saudi-crown-prince.html

The new Crown Prince seems to be a bit less of a modernist/secularist than the current King Abdullah.  Presuming he becomes king and stays in power long enough, Prince Nayef will likely be one who will directly and/or indirectly support the final King of the South (and there is a small possibility he could become such a leader).

As a general rule, the Arab League is made up of countries that are primarily Sunni Muslims, like Saudi Arabia.   Because of its oil reserves and money, Saudi Arabia has an influence disproportionate to the size of its population.

For more information, here are three articles of possibly related interest:

The Arab World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam?
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?
Africa: Its Biblical Past and Prophesied Future What does the Bible teach about Africa and its future? Did the early Church reach Africa? Will God call all the Africans?

False Prophet Harold Camping Allegedly Retires; Ronald Weinland Should Consider That

Friday, October 28th, 2011


Harold Egbert Camping

COGwriter

According to certain, but not completely confirmed, news reports, false prophet Harold Camping has retired:

Harold Camping worst prophet ever: Camping retires, and Family Radio removes doomsday warnings from its website–finally…

October 21st has come and gone with no Rapture, which makes it a total Doomsday Fail.   Family Radio perhaps is getting the idea–they’ve removed doomsday warnings from their website after having them up for the last five months–perhaps for good.  http://www.goddiscussion.com/83473/harold-camping-worst-prophet-ever-camping-retires-and-family-radio-removes-doomsday-warnings-from-its-website-finally/

Harold Camping Update: Has the Family Radio Bible Teacher Really Retired?
Oct 25, 2011
Harold Camping has reportedly retired, hanging up his hat on his radio ministry, but does that mean Camping will also retire his predictions?

COLUMN: Harold Camping is world’s worst prophet…

The troubling part with Camping’s predictions is that individuals have actually taken this mad prophet seriously in the past, and several suicides and deaths resulted from his prediction in May…Camping justified his latest prediction…

“Indeed, on May 21 Christ did come spiritually to put all of the unsaved throughout the world into judgment. But that universal judgment will not be physically seen until the last day of the five-month judgment period, on October 21, 2011,” the description said.

The only judgment that should have been made in the past five months is that this old man is completely off his rocker.

Hopefully, we’ll only have to endure the 2012 Mayan calendar’s supposed prediction of the end of the world once.  http://www.cm-life.com/2011/10/24/column-harold-camping-the-worlds-worst-prophet/

While I am not sure that Harold Camping is any worse than former UCG minister and self-appointed prophet/apostle/one-of-the-two-witnesses Ronald Weinland of CGPFK, the reality is that less people have thus far paid less attention to Ronald Weinland, even though he has made several false prophecies and has his last date for Jesus to return on May 27, 2012.  Yet it is certain that Jesus will not return for many years.

Ronald Weinland in his 6/26/10 sermon transcript declared:

And so because of the 50th Truth and the understanding that God has given us of Christ’s return on Pentecost, May 27, 2012 we also came to understand the true date for the sealing of the 144,000 that was to precede Christ’s reign by 1335 days – which again is covered in the book of Daniel at the end of those verses that we were reading earlier. And we understand that was a point in time; September 30,  2008 which was the Feast, again, here talking about Trumpets of 2008. What an incredible thing that God uses the same moment in time to go backward – something to do with Satan; and to go forward. I don’t know about you but I find that a very powerful, awesome sign – I truly do! It’s very motivating, very stirring if we understand.

Now, I am sure that Ronald Weinland will conclude that I am one who does not understand.  But Jesus is NOT going to return on May 27, 2012. And instead of having the physically required signs of the Great Tribulation or even those that the Bible requires from the two witnesses, he seems to claim that his odd interpretation of certain prophetic matters is “a very powerful, awesome sign“.  I say this is nonsense.

Ronald Weinland should announce his retirement from the ministry no late than May 28, 2012 if he has any semblance to decency as he will again be proven wrong, just like Harold Camping (Of course, if he takes up an offering on May 27, 2012, this should give his followers pause as according to his predictions he would have no ability to spend any of it–unless his prediction is wrong, which it is).

Notice a couple of warnings from the Bible about false prophets:

22 when a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the thing does not happen or come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him. (Deuteronomy 18:22).

1 But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. 2 And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. 3 By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber. (2 Peter 2:1-3).

I do not consider that Harold Camping is a real Christian and he has repeatedly proven to be a false prophet.  The world did not end in 1994, there was no “rapture of the Church” in May 2011, and no one should base their life on following the dates of Harold Camping or Ronald Weinland.  They, and other false prophets, have caused the way of truth to be blasphemed. Sadly, people have spent a lot of money to promote something that will cause the way of truth will be blasphemed by some.

Some believe that the stroke that happened to Harold Camping was the result of Divine punishement:

Harold Camping, 89, suffered a mild stroke last week that affected his speech. Could this incident be a sign or punishment from God for his false rapture predictions?…The stroke has reportedly only affected his speech, which has become slurred as a result.For many observers, the stroke – while tragic – seemed like a divine act to punish the radio preacher for his false predictions or at the very least warn him not to do it again. (Phan KT. Harold Camping’s Stroke Punishment From God? A Biblical Response. Christian Post, June 14, 2011. http://www.christianpost.com/news/harold-campings-stroke-punishment-from-god-a-biblical-response-51162/)

Similar to others that I have considered to be “false prophets”, it is not that Harold Camping cannot accurately read scriptures out loud (Satan can do that Matthew 4:6), but like Satan, he often does not understand what they are supposed to mean in the light of other scriptures (Matthew 4). The fact that he, like other false preachers, frequently gets some correct points made does not mean that he is not a false prophet.

Now as far as the Mayan 2012 stuff, let me make this perfectly clear, when the world does NOT end on December 21, 2012, various scoffers will likely rise up and denounce all prophecy as bogus.  People like Harold Camping will likely also be cited.  False prophets have caused and again will cause the way of truth to be blasphemed.  But Bible prophecy is sure and it will come to pass.

Remember that the Apostle Peter warned:

…scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” 5 For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, 6 by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. 7 But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.

8 But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.  (2 Peter 3:3-9)

So, despite false ones who rise up (Matthew 24:4) and scoffers, Jesus will return.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Harold Camping’s Teachings About the End of the World Do Not Agree with the Bible Harold Camping teaches that the rapture will be on May 21, 2011 and the world will end on October 21, 2011. What does the Bible show?
What is the Appropriate Form of Biblical Interpretation? Should the Bible be literally understood? What do the writings of the Bible, Origen, Herbert W. Armstrong, and Augustine show?

Why Be Concerned About False and Heretical Leaders? There have been many false leaders–here is some of why you should be concerned about them.
There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory.
Is There A Secret Rapture for the Church? When and Where is the Church Protected? What does the Bible really teach? Does the Church flee or is it taken up just prior to the great tribulation? Who really is left behind?
Concerns About Ronald Weinland’s Church of God-Preparing for the Kingdom of God Ronald Weinland falsely claims to be one of the two witnesses God is raising up and that the end will come in 2008 (first April 17th, then June 2008, now December 14, 2008). Why does the Bible show that Ron Weinland is a false prophet? He also has at least one other view that suggests that he is not part of the Church of God.
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
End of Mayan Calendar 2012–Might 2012 Mean Something? Are there Mayan calendar predictions for change in 2012? Changes were centuries ago predicted by the Hopi Native Americans. Do Mayan/Hindu/Hopi/Buddhist/New Age/Nostradamus prophecies have any value here? 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? How might the next pope be involved in 2012?
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?

American’s Expected to Spend Nearly $7 Billion on Halloween, CT Wants its Share

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

Halloween in Ireland

COGwriter

Many will be observing “Halloween” the end of this month. According to page D3 of today’s Wall Street Journal, Americans are expected to spend nearly USD$7,000,000,000.

The improperly named Christianity Today (CT) continues to try to get its share of the Halloween spending by selling items such as Jack-o-Lantern car magnets, as I noticed again today.

CT itself seems to try to pretend that it is “balanced” on the subject by having some articles that question whether or not Christians should celebrate the pagan holiday as well as having others that clearly promote it.

Notice a CT article titled Trick-or-Treat? which contains various admissions and Halloween promotions as follows:

On the calendar of events for the Christian college where I teach, October 31 sits in a dark square with no acknowledgment that there is anything special about the date.

“It’s Satan’s Holiday, Dr. Rearick,” affirmed one of my students. “Didn’t you know?”

Well, no, I didn’t know…I have always considered Halloween a day to celebrate the imagination, to become for a short time something wonderful and strange, smelling of grease paint, to taste sweets that are permissible only once a year…”But look at the roots of Halloween,” some may say. “Don’t you see how evil it once was?” I do, but the operative word in that sentence is was. Samhain was once a time of fear and dread, but at one time so was Yule or Midvinterblot, as it was called in Sweden…

Christians should instead celebrate Halloween with gusto. If we follow the traditional formula of having a good time at his expense, Satan flees.

So, the writer seems to be saying that even though Halloween has pagan roots, since the Yule festival (Christmas) does as well, it does not matter how pagans worshiped their gods, it is okay to celebrate modified versions of them now.

I disagree.

Also notice what God inspired to be recorded in His word:

6…”God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. (James 4:6-7)

Satan does not flee because people celebrate pagan holidays and God is not pleased with His people observing them either.

Let’s again let’s look at the Bible and not the opinions of men in the context of adopting pagan practices:

2 Thus says the LORD: “Do not learn the way of the Gentiles; Do not be dismayed at the signs of heaven,
3 For the Gentiles are dismayed at them. For the customs of the peoples are futile (Jeremiah 10:2-3).

At the absolute best, Halloween customs are futile and detract from the emphasis to worship the true God.

24 You shall not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do according to their works; but you shall utterly overthrow them and completely break down their sacred pillars (Exodus 23:24).

Note that not only are God’s people not to worship other gods, they are not to “do according to their works” (of those who did)–like Halloween. This is also confirmed in the passage below:

…do not inquire after their gods, saying, ‘How did these nations serve their gods? I also will do likewise.’ “You shall not worship the LORD your God in that way; for every abomination to the LORD which He hates they have done to their gods (Deuteronomy 12:30-31).

No true Christian would want to encourage their children to participate in pagan customs associated with Halloween.

Halloween is clearly pagan.  Thus, it is not “balanced” to have articles that promote it nor is it balanced to sell pro-Halloween-related items.  Both of which CT does–that is part of why I wish it did not have the word “Christianity” in its title.  A better title would be Protestantism Today (though sometimes CT also endorses aspects of Catholicism, but in general it has a Protestant focus).

Of course, most holidays celebrated in the Western cultures are of pagan origin, but that does not make them right.

Halloween should not be celebrated by Christians.

There are biblical Holy Days (Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible?), but most people do not celebrate them.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians? This article provides some historical and biblical insight on this question.
Do You Practice Mithraism? Many practices and doctrines that mainstream so-called Christian groups have are the same or similar to those of the sun-god Mithras. Do you follow Mithraism combined with the Bible or original Christianity?
Is January 1st a Date for Christians Celebrate? Historical and biblical answers to this question about the world’s New Year’s day.
Valentine’s Day: Its Real Origins Christianity Today suggests that Valentine’s Day is good for Christians to observe. Is this true?
Mardi Gras: The Devil’s Carnival? Do you know that in Bolivia the carnival/Mardi Gras time is part of a celebration known as the Devil’s Carnival? Did Jesus celebrate Carnaval? Where did it come from?
Is Lent a Christian Holiday? When did it originate? What about Ash Wednesday? If you observe them, do you know why?
Why The Living Church of God Does Not Wear Green on St. Patrick’s Day Should non-Catholics observe a Catholic holiday?
Did Early Christians Celebrate Easter? If not, when did this happen? What do scholars and the Bible reveal?
Milvian Bridge Day, Constantine, and St. Jude Milvian Bridge Day and St. Jude’s day are observed by some on October 28. Yet, do these two events point to a contradiction?
Was Jesus Born in the Grotto of the Nativity? Was Jesus born in a below ground cave? Was Jesus born below the “Church of the Nativity”? Were the wise men there?
Is Keeping Christmas a Sin? Is keeping Christmas acceptable for true Christians? What are some scriptures to consider?
What Does the Catholic Church Teach About Christmas and the Holy Days? Do you know what the Catholic Church says were the original Christian holy days? Was Christmas among them? Is December 25th Jesus’ birthday or that of the sun god?
Did Early Christians Celebrate Birthdays? Did biblical era Jews celebrate birthdays? Who originally celebrated birthdays? When did many that profess Christ begin birthday celebrations?
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by the Tkach WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.

Europe’s Accord to Save Euro

Thursday, October 27th, 2011


Angela Merkel

COGwriter

European leaders again seem to have made an accord to save the Euro:

By and
Published: October 27, 2011

BRUSSELS — European leaders, in a significant step toward resolving the euro zone financial crisis, won an agreement from banks early Thursday to take a 50 percent loss on the face value of their Greek debt. The agreement was crucial to assembling a comprehensive package to protect the euro, which has been keeping jittery financial markets on edge around the world…

Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany said: “I believe we were able to live up to expectations, that we did the right thing for the euro zone, and this brings us one step farther along the road to a good and sensible solution.”   http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/28/world/europe/europe-in-accord-on-basics-of-plan-to-save-the-euro.html

Proposing more losses on Greek debt essentially is sending the message that while the EU will somewhat support the Euro, it will not support all the debt of the nations in the Eurozone.  Hence, the EU is not as unified as it sometimes appears to be.

Yet, the prophecies in both the books of Daniel (9:26-27; 11:20-44) and Revelation (13;17;18) point to a power to be based out of Europe (there are also European pointed prophecies in other books of the Bible, such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, etc.) that will fulfill many end-time prophecies.

As I have written before, the Bible is clear that Europe will appear disconnected and never will be thoroughly unified (Daniel 2:41-43).  Many in Germany and in other parts of Europe will likely not like the newly proposed accord.   Europe may have additional civil unrest and possibly civil war (see pages 79-81 of my 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect book) if the Euro crisis expands, which would likely be stopped by the final Beast (cf. Revelation 13:4), who is the final King of the North–a power that will accumulate gold (Daniel 11:36-43).

As far as the Euro, here is some of what I wrote in 2009 in my book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect:

Having the European power acquiring a lot more gold to back the Euro (even if the backing is only implied) or possibly other future European currency (that might potentially replace the Euro) may greatly increase European credibility, prosperity, and influence around the globe.

And as I have written many times at COGwriter, I expect the euro to drop in value from time to time, and even to plummet should major civil unrest occur, until the euro (or whatever replacement currency Europe would have should the euro be dropped, including a possible world currency) becomes the actual world reserve currency essentially replacing the US dollar.

We in LCG do believe that despite problems and temporary “fixes” with the Euro, Europe will have to reorganize, and ultimately fulfill the prophecies in the Bible about being the final Beast power of Revelation, the final King of the North of Daniel 11.

For details on those prophecies, check out the following:

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?
Might German Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg become the King of the North? Is the German Defense Minister one to watch? What do Catholic, Byzantine, and biblical prophecies suggest?
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 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Why does Daniel 9:26-27 seem to be referring to a peace deal confirmed by a European leader.

Thailand Floods May Cause Global Rice Shortage and/or Price Inflation

Wednesday, October 26th, 2011

Rice (Oryza sativa)

COGwriter

Floods in Thailand are serious and may result in global rice shortage and increased prices for rice:

Thailand Floods 2011

Thailand is currently facing its worst flooding in 50 years. Flood waters have swamped more than two-thirds of the country, submerging rice fields and shutting down hundreds of factories while over 900,000 families and businesses have been impacted and hundreds of lives have been tragically lost. National relief efforts are now focused on providing essential food, clean water and shelter to displaced people and restoring damaged infrastructure to the Kingdom of Smiles.  http://www.google.org/crisisresponse/thailand-flood-2011.html

Thai floods may cause global rice shortage
26 October 2011.  Thailand’s flooding has wiped out as much as 14% of paddy fields, drastically reducing the export capacity of the world’s biggest rice exporter and potentially increasing global food prices.

Thai capital warned “massive” water on the way

By Pracha Hariraksapitak BANGKOK (Reuters) – Floods swamped a new area of Thailand’s capital on Wednesday as some shops rationed food and Bangkok’s governor warned of “massive water” on the way that could put many parts of the sprawling city in danger by the end of the week.  http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/10/26/us-thailand-floods-idUSTRE79K2XG20111026

Jesus warned that “famines” would be part of the “beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:7-8). In the Book of Revelation, food price inflation is predicted with the ride of the third horseman (Revelation 6:6).

Evangelist Richard Ames wrote:

The third seal presents a rider on a black horse, representing the scarcity of food and the resulting famine…Cynics say there have always been wars, famines and pestilences. But, as time goes on, we will see the four horsemen of the apocalypse intensify their ride, with increasing global consequences. (Ames R. The Middle East in Prophecy. Living Church of God, 2006, p. 24)

Food shortages will affect more than Asia–ultimately they will also affect the United States.

As Jesus said:

37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch! (Mark 13:36-37)

Articles of related interest may include:

Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse What is the Book of Revelation trying to tell us about them? Does the first one deceive many?
Physical Preparation Scriptures for Christians. We all know the Bible prophecies famines. Should we do something?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?
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?
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?

China and Taiwan Peace Deal

Wednesday, October 26th, 2011


Taipei 101 in Taiwan

COGwriter

Although they have long had major political issues, it appears that China and Taiwan are moving closer towards a peace deal:

BEIJING | Wed Oct 26, 2011 3:50am EDT

(Reuters) – China on Wednesday welcomed a proposal by Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou to consider a peace treaty with its long-time rival…

“Chinese nation” is a term used by China that refers to the people who live on both sides of the Taiwan Strait in line with its “one China” policy.

Ma set off a controversy last week when he suggested a peace treaty with China could be signed in 10 years…http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/10/26/us-china-taiwan-idUSTRE79P1K420111026

An alignment of eastern powers is consistent with biblical prophecy and is expected.

Perhaps it should also be mentioned that I have long suspected that Taiwan, Korea, and Japan, would end up being parts of the “kings from the east”, along with nations such as China, Russia, and likely also India.

The Bible tells of an apparent Asian involvement in a major battle in the Book of Revelation. Notice the following:

13 Then the sixth angel sounded: And I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, 14 saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet, “Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates.” 15 So the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind. 16 Now the number of the army of the horsemen was two hundred million; I heard the number of them. 17 And thus I saw the horses in the vision: those who sat on them had breastplates of fiery red, hyacinth blue, and sulfur yellow; and the heads of the horses were like the heads of lions; and out of their mouths came fire, smoke, and brimstone. 18 By these three plagues a third of mankind was killed–by the fire and the smoke and the brimstone which came out of their mouths(Revelation 9:13-18).

Only China, and possibly India and others in Asia (which may align themselves with China and Russia against the European Empire of the final King of the North; cf. Daniel 11:44), are capable of fielding a two hundred million man army. Thus, Revelation appears to be discussing an Asian role in the end-time prophecies. (It may also be of interest to note that some of the troops in China wear insignia that is red, blue and yellow–see China’s Change Towards Religion).

I believe that part of why China itself (which likely will at least include involvement from Taiwan) will most likely help supply manpower for the 200,000,000 man army of Revelation 9:16.  One reason for China is because its current “one child policy” (which it adopted in the early 1980s). This policy is resulting in an excessively high male to female birth ratio because of gender-driven abortions–thus more males than normal will be more willing to fight in the military. According to one researcher, since the late 1970s, 163 million abortions have been performed specifically for the purpose of eliminating female babies, and this makes the areas where there are more significantly more males much more violent (for details, please see Abortion, the Bible, and a Woman’s Right to Choose). And thus China’s “one child” policy appears to be setting the stage for this army in the 21st century. It may be of interest to note that because of abortions and cultural prefences, more males than normal are also being produced in India (India Producing More Males than Females).

Also notice the following:

12 Then the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, so that the way of the kings from the east might be prepared. 13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. 14 For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 15 Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.” 16 And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon (Revelation 16:12-16).

Here we see that the kings from the East (hence more than one country) are those that need to cross the Euphrates. This combined with Revelation 9, which shows that two hundred million man army be assisted by angels at the Euphrates is strong biblical evidence that Asia is at least part of this massive army.

China is clearly a nation that biblical is one of the “kings from the east”. Russia, India, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and others are also probably “kings from the East” (Revelation 16:12). The literal translation is “the kings of the sunrise” and thus this would seem to also include Indochina (including Vietnam), Indonesia, and other lands (since Indonesia is Islamic, it is likely to wish much closer alignment with the Chinese in the end after the King of the North overwhelms the Islamic King of the South per Daniel 11:40-44 (see also The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy).

Peace deals such as the one Taiwan has proposed may be misunderstood as many hope that real peace will be brought through human effort.  And while Jesus calls peacemakers blessed (Matthew 5:9), the reality is that the Bible tells of several false declarations of peace that will occur in these end-times (cf. Ezekiel 13:10-16).

The world is shifting. And the developing balance of power, as well as various declarations of peace, will confuse many.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 1: Genesis and Chinese Characters This article provides information showing that the Chinese peoples must have known about various accounts in the Book of Genesis up until their dispersion after the Tower of Babel.
China, Its Biblical Past and Future, Part 2: The Sabbath and Some of God’s Witness in China When did Christianity first come to China? And is there early evidence that they observed the seventh day sabbath?
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon?

Gold Rises Amidst Debt and Economic Concerns

Tuesday, October 25th, 2011


220 kg Gold brick displayed in Taiwan

COGwriter

Gold went up a lot today:

Gold surges over 3 pct as haven bid restored

‎Reuters – Frank TangAmanda Cooper – 25 October 2011
NEW YORK/LONDON (Reuters) – Gold prices roared to one of the biggest one-day rallies in years on Tuesday, as euro zone jitters and gloomy U.S. consumer data rekindled a dormant safe-haven bid and triggered a flurry of technical buying.

Debt in the Eurozone and the USA economy, combined with recession fears in the West seem to be factors in gold’s rise. The price of stocks and gold will fluctuate (for more current gold quotes, check out the Financial Information link, which also has links to stocks, currencies, and other financial valuations). Many are going for gold as a type of reserve currency.

The idea of gold could be accumulated to support a new currency, while the US dollar tanks, is discussed on page 333 of my book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect. And this appears to be what will happen, as well is what is we see sometimes happening now.

The financial world is somewhat starting to understand some of this–but few really know how bad it will get.  While Europe will have problems and ultimately must restructure (Revelation 17:11-13), the biblical reality is that US dollar will ultimately be worthless and the USA ultimately taken over because of its sins and debt.  Increased interest gold (and silver) suggest decreased interest in the US dollar. Of course, with the rapid rise in the price of gold in the past few weeks, it may go down–though I believe that after the US dollar is worthless, gold still will have value (Daniel 11; Revelation 18).

Of course, gold and an improved economy will not save humanity, only Jesus can do that, but it may be prudent for people to consider the signs of the times.

For additional information, check out the following articles:

The Plain Truth About Gold in Prophecy. How Should a Christian View Gold? What do economists and the Bible teach about gold? Gold and silver may drop in value. Inflation/deflation? What do Christians need to know about gold?
Are You Saved? Do You Love Jesus? What is a True Christian? What is the Gospel? Evangelist Richard Ames answers those important questions.
Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord?
Prophecies of Barack Obama? This article has eight reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and eight reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. It includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? This is the longest and most complete article at the COGwriter website on Barack Obama prophecies. Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.
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? What will happen to the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people?
2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect This is a link related to a book by Bob Thiel (COGwriter). This also has YouTube videos. This book documents and explains hundreds of prophecies. And since it was published, many have already started to come to pass.
2012 y el surgimiento de la secta secreta 2012 libro del Dr. Thiel en Español.
2012 und das Auftreten der geheimen Sekte (German Edition) 2012 Buch von Dr. Thiel in deutscher Sprache.
2012 e o Surgimento da Seita Secreta (Portuguese Edition) 2012 livro do Dr. Thiel em português. Este livro documenta e explica centenas de profecias. E desde que foi publicado pela primeira vez, pelo menos 14 já começaram a acontecer.
2012 e o Surgimento da Seita Secreta (Brazilian Portuguese Edition) 2012 livro do Dr. Thiel. Edição em português do Brasil. Este livro documenta e explica centenas de profecias. E desde que foi publicado pela primeira vez, pelo menos 16 já começaram a acontecer.

Should LDS Deification View Disqualify Mormon Mitt Romney?

Tuesday, October 25th, 2011


Mitt Romney (Gage Skidmore, 2011)

COGwriter

A former Mormon believes that at least one LDS belief should disqualify Mitt Romney from being President of the USA:

Mormon bishop’s daughter spills Romney’s ‘secrets’ …
‘Would you trust the judgment of a man if he truly believes he’s gonna be a god?’
The daughter of a Mormon bishop who has abandoned her family’s faith claims in a new book the election of Mitt Romney to the presidency would put the U.S. in danger due to what she calls the Republican’s “outrageous,” “horrific” and “mind-controlling” beliefs.

Erickson says Romney believes:

Her book goes into other beliefs, but the idea of deification is the one I wish to focus on.

First, however, let me say that I am NOT trying to promote nor condemn the candidacy of Mitt Romney.  I do not get involved in that type of politics and we should see who will end up running directly against USA President Barack Obama sometime in 2012.

Now getting back to the idea of deification, basically because most Protestants abandoned the idea it is considered a “cultish” belief by evangelicals and many other Protestants.

Yet, the reality is that it was an original teaching of the true Christian Church and remains so today (though not quite how the LDS teach it).

The New Testament Teaches That Humans Will Become Part of the Family of God

Jesus taught deification:

Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your law, ‘I said, “You are gods” ‘? If He called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be broken), do you say of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’? (John 10:34-36, NKJV throughout except if otherwise noted).

And this was not only referring to His deification as He quoted from Psalm 82:6 which also is in the plural:

I said, “You are gods, And all of you are children of the Most High…” (Psalm 82:6).

The Apostle Paul specifically taught “we have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16)–we do and strive to have that more. Paul also wrote that Jesus was to be the firstborn of many brethren:

For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren (Romans 8:29).

If God is our Father, we are to be “conformed to the image of His Son”, Jesus is God, Jesus is our brother, and are we not to be in the family of God and truly be deified?

Notice what happened with Jesus is supposed to happen to us:

20 But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. 23 But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming (1 Corinthians 15:20-23).

Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures (James 1:18).

These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb (Revelation 14:4).

For if the firstfruit is holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root is holy, so are the branches (Romans 11:16).

Christians are to be firstfruits like Christ. As a firstfruit, Christ is divine.

Notice that the Bible does teach that there is a whole family which is named after God the Father, and that we are to know the love of Christ so that we can truly have the fullness of God:

For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height– to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:14-19).

The Apostle Paul also taught:

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together (Romans 8:16-17, KJV).

Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:14-15).

Notice that “the children of God” are to be “glorified together” with Christ as “joint-heirs”.

The Apostle John taught:

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name (John 1:12).

Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. Beloved, now we are children of God (1 John 3:1-2a).

The children of people are people, the children of cows are cows. What are the children of God?

The Apostle Peter taught deification:

His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:3-4).

Are not those that are “partakers of the divine nature” somehow deified?

Second Century Writings Show That Christians Believed They Would Become God

In the early second century, Ignatius of Antioch wrote:

For it is not my desire to act towards you as a man-pleaser, but as pleasing God, even as also you please Him. For neither shall I ever have such [another] opportunity of attaining to God…It is good to set from the world unto God, that I may rise again to Him…Suffer me to become food for the wild beasts, through whose instrumentality it will be granted me to attain to God (Ignatius. Letter to the Romans, Chapters 2,4).

He is the door of the Father, by which enter in Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and the prophets, and the apostles, and the Church. All these have for their object the attaining to the unity of God (Ignatius. Letter to the Romans, Chapter 9).

Polycarp of Smyrna, who knew Ignatius, wrote:

But He who raised Him up from the dead will raise up us also, if we do His will, and walk in His commandments, and love what He loved, keeping ourselves from all unrighteousness, covetousness, love of money, evil speaking, falsewitness; “not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing,” or blow for blow, or cursing for cursing, but being mindful of what the Lord…may He bestow on you a lot and portion among His saints, and on us with you, and on all that are under heaven, who shall believe in our Lord and God Jesus Christ, and in His Father, who raised Him from the dead (Polycarp’s Letter to the Philippians. Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 1 as edited by Alexander Roberts & James Donaldson. American Edition, 1885. Sections 2,12).

Polycarp is teaching that what happened to Jesus will also happen to true Christians. And that is also what New Testament writers taught.

Theophilus of Antioch also taught the humans were to become God, though several passages need to be looked at to make this clear:

In like manner also the three days which were before the luminaries, are types of the threes of God, and His Word, and His wisdom. And the fourth is the type of man, who needs light, that so there may be God, the Word, wisdom, man (Theophilus of Antioch. To Autolycus, Book 2, Chapter XV. Translated by Bob Thiel).

(Note the above is often mistranslated, for details see the article Theophilus of Antioch).

What Theophilus is teaching is that now man is a fourth, but will become part of God, the third part, when humans become God’s offspring. And that he seems to see this as the wisdom of God’s plan.

Catholic, Protestant, and Eastern Orthodox Writings Show That the Belief in Deification Was a Widespread Belief

Non-Church of God leaders also taught the idea of deification throughout history.

In the 4th century, Ambrose of Milan taught:

Then a Virgin conceived, and the Word became flesh that flesh might become God (Ambrose of Milan. Concerning Virginity (Book I, Chapter 11). Copyright © 2007 by Kevin Knight).

In the late 4th century, John Chrysostom wrote:

…the man can become God, and a child of God. For we read, “I have said, You are gods, and all of you are children of the Most High” (John Chrysostom. Homily 32 on the Acts of the Apostles. Copyright © 2007 by Kevin Knight).

The 5th century Bishop Ibas of Edessa allegedly taught:

I do not envy Christ His becoming God, for I can become God no less than He (Labourt J. Transcribed by John Fobian. Ibas. The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume VII. Published 1910. New York: Robert Appleton Company. Nihil Obstat, June 1, 1910. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

In the 13th/14th century, notice what the following from a famous German Dominican theologian Meister Eckhardt (c. 1260–c. 1328):

Meister Eckhardt said that in union with God we become God (Fanning S. Mystics of the Christian Tradition. Routeldge, New York. 2001, reprinted 2006, p. 219).

In the 16th century, notice what even Martin Luther taught:

“For the Word became flesh in order that the flesh might become Word. That is, God becomes man in order that man might become God (On the Word Became Flesh Martin Luther, 1483-1546 From: Sermo Lutheri in natali Christi, [December 25, 1514]) _D. Martin Luthers Werke. Kritische Gesammtausgabe_ (Weimar: Hermann Boehlau, 1883) Vol. 1, p. 28).

In the 20th century, Pope Paul VI taught:

My brothers, do you understand the Grace of God our Head? Stand in admiration, rejoice; we have become Christ. For if He is the Head, we are the members; He and we are the complete Man . . . therefore, the fullness of Christ is constituted by the Head and Members Ecclesiam Suam Encyclical Letter on the Ways in which the Church Must Carry Out its Mission in the Contemporary World His Holiness Pope Paul VI, Section 35. Transcribed work by Bob Van Cleef. Promulgated on August 6, 1964. Copyright © 2007 by Kevin Knight).

While there are differences in understanding, the idea of deification has been held by Church of God leaders and those of the Greco-Roman churches throughout history.

And while I do not intend to endorse any USA presidential candidate (see Should a Christian Vote?), I do not believe that accepting some version of deification should be a disqualifying factor.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Deification: Did the Early Church Teach That Christians Would Become God? What does the Bible teach? Is deification only a weird or cultic idea?
Some Dissimilarities Between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and the Living Church of God The Living Church of God is not related to the Mormons and this article explains some differences and a couple of similarities.
What Do Roman Catholic Scholars Actually Teach About Early Church History? Although most believe that the Roman Catholic Church history teaches an unbroken line of succession of bishops beginning with Peter, with stories about most of them, Roman Catholic scholars know the truth of this matter. This eye-opening article is a must-read for any who really wants to know what Roman Catholic history actually admits about the early church.
Nazarene Christianity: Were the Original Christians Nazarenes? Should Christians be Nazarenes today? What were the practices of the Nazarenes.
Location of the Early Church: Another Look at Ephesus, Smyrna, and Rome What actually happened to the primitive Church? And did the Bible tell about this in advance?
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!
Early Church History: Who Were the Two Major Groups Professed Christ in the Second and Third Centuries? Did you know that many in the second and third centuries felt that there were two major, and separate, professing Christian groups in the second century, but that those in the majority churches tend to now blend the groups together and claim “saints” from both? “Saints” that condemn some of their current beliefs. Who are the two groups?
What Was the Original Apostles’ Creed? What is the Nicene Creed? Did the original apostles write a creed? When was the first creed written? Are the creeds commonly used by the Eastern Orthodox or Roman Catholics original?
Do You Practice Mithraism? Many practices and doctrines that mainstream so-called Christian groups have are the same or similar to those of the sun-god Mithras. Do you follow Mithraism combined with the Bible or original Christianity?
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?

Muslim Brotherhood Scores a Gain in Tunisia’s Election

Monday, October 24th, 2011


Muslim Brotherhood
الإخوان المسلمون
Al-Ikhwān Al-Muslimūn

COGwriter

Tunisia’s election results are in the news and while many believe it heralds a rise in moderation, some are less persuaded:

24 October 2011

Most forecasts point to the Ennahda party emerging with the biggest share of the vote, an outcome that worries secularists and could be replicated in other Arab states when they hold their own post-Arab Spring elections…Ennahda’s fortunes may have a bearing on Egyptian elections set for next month in which the Muslim Brotherhood​, an ideological ally, also hopes to emerge strongest. http://www.livemint.com/2011/10/24181739/Tunisia-counts-votes-after-fir.html?h=B

Calling his party “the most modernist” Islamic political movement in the Arab world — meaning the most committed to principles of democracy and pluralism — Mr. Laredi predicted that it would now “lead the way” for others around the region.

Ennahda officials were already beginning discussions to form a unity government with the four or five other more liberal parties that were expected to get representation in the constituent assembly, which is to draft the constitution. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/25/world/africa/ennahda-moderate-islamic-party-makes-strong-showing-in-tunisia-vote.html

Ennahda (initially a branch of the Muslim Brotherhood) has succeeded in uniting a variety of Islamist groups. Its leader, Rached el-Ghannouchi, says he is interested in the “Turkish model,” which allows for an Islamic government to operate in a secular society. http://www.nypost.com/p/news/opinion/opedcolumnists/tunisia_votes_first_fruit_of_arab_DTLII8yInFDTSjNn3yV5PM#ixzz1bjDCr2Jt

Ennahda’s ideology is based on that of Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood, which seeks to impose Islamic law on the whole world.  http://www.israeltoday.co.il/News/tabid/178/nid/22989/language/en-US/Default.aspx

So, while some believe that “moderation” has prevailed, others note that there are similarities between the goals of Ennahda and the Muslim Brotherhood.

The situation in Tunisia is far from truly stable.  While claiming that they are interested in a secular, Turkish model, of government, the reality is that I do not believe that Tunisia’s new government will meet enough of the desires of its people and that ultimately (if not sooner, like possibly now) they will start to move away from a secular model (Tunisia was considered to basically be a secular state prior to this election) and more towards an Islamic state (which Turkey has been doing, to a degree, of late).  I personally consider that the election in Tunisia will ultimately help groups like the Muslim Brotherhood–hence I believe that they likely are considering that the election results in Tunisia are a gain for them.

When the right Arab leader rises up (the final king of the South of Daniel 11:40), I strongly suspect that those in Tunisia will support him.  Watch (Mark 13:37).

Some articles of related interest may include:

Is There A Future King of the South? Some no longer believe there needs to be. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi? What does the Bible say?
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims?
Is There an Islamic Antichrist? Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2011, 2012, or 2013? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000?

Vatican Document Supportive of Economic Plans of the Beast

Monday, October 24th, 2011


View in Vatican City (photo by Joyce Thiel)

COGwriter

There is Vatican report that seems supportive of what the Bible warns about from the coming Beast power:

By John Thavis
Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — A Vatican document called for the gradual creation of a world political authority with broad powers to regulate financial markets and rein in the “inequalities and distortions of capitalist development.”

The document said the current global financial crisis has revealed “selfishness, collective greed and the hoarding of goods on a great scale.” A supranational authority, it said, is needed to place the common good at the center of international economic activity.

The 41-page text was titled, “Toward Reforming the International Financial and Monetary Systems in the Context of Global Public Authority.” Prepared by the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, it was released Oct. 24 in several languages, including a provisional translation in English.  http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/1104173.htm

The Bible warns of a time when a major Beast power will control finances:

1 Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name…8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.  (Revelation 13:8)

15 He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed. 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 13:15-18)

The Bible warns that the Beast’s and Harlot’s Babylonian system will be stopped:

1 After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illuminated with his glory. 2 And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! 3 For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.”

4 And I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached to heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities. 6 Render to her just as she rendered to you, and repay her double according to her works; in the cup which she has mixed, mix double for her. 7 In the measure that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously, in the same measure give her torment and sorrow; for she says in her heart, ‘I sit as queen, and am no widow, and will not see sorrow.’ 8 Therefore her plagues will come in one day — death and mourning and famine. And she will be utterly burned with fire, for strong is the Lord God who judges her. (Revelation 18:1-8)

While I do not believe that it is the Vatican’s intention to support the fulfilling of the prophecies in Revelation 13, it does seem to have taken another step in that direction.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Europa, the Beast, and the Book of Revelation discusses the largest church since the second/third century, which in a real sense is the eighth church mentioned in the Book of Revelation (it also endorses “eighth day” worship). What church would support the Beast?
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.
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?