Church of God News

Israel-Gaza Barrier

COGwriter

Negotiations to continue the cease-fire apparently ended as Hamas launched rockets and Israel resumed its offensive:

August 20, 2014

JERUSALEM— Israel and Palestinian fighters in Gaza exchanged fire Tuesday night and Wednesday morning as cease-fire talks in Egypt broke down. Palestinian authorities say at least 11 people were killed in the latest round of violence. There we no reported injuries in Israel.

According to Hamas, the wife and child of its military leader Mohammed Deif are among the dead…
Who broke truce?

The Israeli military said Wednesday it conducted 60 airstrikes overnight, and that militants had launched some 80 missiles from the Palestinian territory.

The Israeli military reported rockets landed near the southern cities of Beer Sheba and Ashkelon and the central city, Jerusalem.

Government spokesman Mark Regev accused the Hamas group that controls Gaza of breaking the truce.

“Today’s rocket attack on our city of Beer Sheba is a direct and grave violation of the cease-fire that Hamas, itself, committed to. This is the 11th cease-fire that Hamas has either rejected or violated,” said Regev.

Hamas blames Israel

Hamas officials denied their group had launched any attacks against Israel. Spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri accused Israel of violating the truce.

He said the Israeli air raids aim to abort the negotiations in Cairo, and added that the Israeli occupation bears responsibility for the escalation and the consequences that may result. …

Hamas demanded an end to the seven-year-old Israeli blockade of Gaza, while Israel demanded a de-militarization of Gaza. Neither side appeared ready to accept the other’s conditions for a permanent cease-fire.  http://www.voanews.com/content/israel-hamas-resume-fighting-as-cairo-talks-break-down/2419518.html

Notice what is bolded (by me) above. While Israel and various Palestinians may agree to temporarily stop fighting, both sides have conditions to a ‘permanent’ cease-fire that the other side is determined not to accept.  This will ultimately lead to some type of an apparent peace deal that will be confirmed for seven years, and broken towards the middle, according to Daniel 9:27 (for more details, see also The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27).

The blockade, symbolized by the photo shown at the beginning of this post, is a major issue for Hamas.

The Israel−Gaza barrier is a border barrier first constructed by Israel in 1994 between the Gaza Strip and Israel. The barrier was extended in 2005 to cover the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.

The fence runs along the entire land border of the Gaza Strip. It is made up of wire fencing with posts, sensors and buffer zones on lands bordering Israel, and concrete and steel walls on lands bordering Egypt.

Entry into the Gaza Strip by land is through five crossing points…

Tunnels have been dug under the barrier to enable smuggling of arms and materials into the territory, and for some movement of people. …

In the 1994 Interim Agreement on the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, it was agreed that “the security fence erected by Israel around the Gaza Strip shall remain in place and that the line demarcated by the fence, as shown on the map, shall be authoritative only for the purpose of the Agreement”(i.e. the barrier does not necessarily constitute the border). The barrier was completed in 1996.

From the Israeli perspective, the Israel–Gaza Strip barrier is a security barrier intended by Israel to control the movement of people between the Gaza Strip and Israel, to stop the entry of arms into the territory and in general to attempt to improve security in Israel. For the Palestinians, it is an element of the blockade of the Gaza Strip and an instrument to throttle the movement of Palestinians between West Bank and Gaza. The Israel-Gaza Strip barrier has met with opposition and protests from some Palestinians. …

The barrier was largely torn down by Palestinians at the beginning of the Al-Aqsa Intifada in September 2000.The barrier was rebuilt between December 2000 and June 2001. A one-kilometer buffer zone was added, in addition to new high technology observation posts. Soldiers were also given new rules of engagement, which, according to Ha’aretz, allow soldiers to fire at anyone seen crawling there at night. Palestinians attempting to cross the barrier into Israel by stealth have been shot and killed.

The barrier’s effectiveness prompted a shift in the tactics of Palestinian militants who commenced firing Qassam rockets and mortars over the barrier. (Israel-Gaza Barrier, Wikipedia, viewed 08/20/14)

A point that I wish to make is that the Palestinians do not consider that the barrier defines the territory that they want.  They want all the land that Israel currently occupies.  Biblical prophecy (Jeremiah 25:17-29; Amos 1:6-8; Zephaniah 2:4-5) indicates that they will get at least some of the coastal cities and other regions that they do not now have such as Ashkelon (located 50 kilometres south of Tel Aviv, and 13 kilometres north of the border with the Gaza Strip), Ekron (modern Tel Miqne, which is 35 kilometers west of Jerusalem), and Ashdod (located 32 kilometres south of Tel Aviv, 20 km north of Ashkelon, and 53 km west of Jerusalem).

As far as the blockade, here is more about it:

August 20, 2014

Hamas is seeking an end to a crippling Israeli-Egyptian blockade tightened when it seized power in Gaza in 2007, while Israel wants guarantees that the Islamic militant group will disarm.

In nearly a week of indirect talks, Egypt appears to have made little headway in resolving the differences. Late Monday, it secured a 24-hour extension to a temporary truce to allow more time for a last-ditch attempt to reach a longer-term deal.

On Wednesday the Egyptian Foreign Ministry expressed “deep regret” over the breaking of the cease-fire. It said in a statement that it “continues bilateral contacts” with both sides aimed at restoring calm and securing a lasting truce that “serves the interest of the Palestinian people, especially in relation to the opening of the crossings and reconstruction.”

An Egyptian compromise proposal calls for easing the blockade, but not lifting it altogether or opening the territory’s air and seaports, as Hamas has demanded.

While the plan does not require Hamas to give up its weapons, it would give Western-backed President Mahmoud Abbas, whose forces were ousted by Hamas in 2007, a foothold back in Gaza running border crossings and overseeing internationally-backed reconstruction.

Abbas’ involvement would minimize friction with Israel and allow large amounts of international aid to flow into Gaza for reconstruction.

The disagreements have focused around the lifting of the blockade, with Hamas pushing for far more dramatic concessions than Israel is willing to offer.

The Gaza blockade has greatly limited the movement of Palestinians in and out of the territory of 1.8 million people, restricted the flow of goods into Gaza and blocked virtually all exports.

Israel says the blockade is needed to prevent Hamas and other militant groups from getting weapons, but critics say the measures have amounted to collective punishment.  http://www.cbsnews.com/news/gaza-war-israel-targets-hamas-commander-mohammed-deif/

The NKJV has the term “Gaza” 21 times and “Gazites” twice.

Bible prophecy tells of calamity coming to Gaza and other lands:

17 Then I took the cup from the Lord’s hand, and made all the nations drink, to whom the Lord had sent me: 18 Jerusalem and the cities of Judah, its kings and its princes, to make them a desolation, an astonishment, a hissing, and a curse, as it is this day; 19 Pharaoh king of Egypt, his servants, his princes, and all his people; 20 all the mixed multitude, all the kings of the land of Uz, all the kings of the land of the Philistines (namely, Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and the remnant of Ashdod); 21 Edom, Moab, and the people of Ammon; 22 all the kings of Tyre, all the kings of Sidon, and the kings of the coastlands which are across the sea; 23 Dedan, Tema, Buz, and all who are in the farthest corners; 24 all the kings of Arabia and all the kings of the mixed multitude who dwell in the desert; 25 all the kings of Zimri, all the kings of Elam, and all the kings of the Medes; 26 all the kings of the north, far and near, one with another; and all the kingdoms of the world which are on the face of the earth. Also the king of Sheshach shall drink after them.

27 “Therefore you shall say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: “Drink, be drunk, and vomit! Fall and rise no more, because of the sword which I will send among you.”‘ 28 And it shall be, if they refuse to take the cup from your hand to drink, then you shall say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts: “You shall certainly drink! 29 For behold, I begin to bring calamity on the city which is called by My name, and should you be utterly unpunished? You shall not be unpunished, for I will call for a sword on all the inhabitants of the earth,” says the Lord of hosts.’ (Jeremiah 25:17-29)

Many of the lands above are listed as supporters of the final King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43) and/or part of a confederation that will be destroyed that will involve Egypt (Ezekiel 30:3-8). Some of those lands, Ashkelon (located 50 kilometres south of Tel Aviv, and 13 kilometres north of the border with the Gaza Strip), Ekron (modern Tel Miqne, which is 35 kilometers west of Jerusalem), and Ashdod (located 32 kilometres south of Tel Aviv, 20 km north of Ashkelon, and 53 km west of Jerusalem.), are currently dominated by the nation of Israel. This indicates change coming to Israel, as well as Gaza/Palestine.

I would like to add that, biblical prophecy teaches that the Palestinians of Gaza and the West Bank will support confederations which will not end well in this age. They will, for a time, believe that they will be protected by a temporary ‘peace deal’ (Daniel 9:27) that will not end well (Daniel 11:11:31, 40-43) according to biblical, and even Islamic prophecy (see also The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy), this will not end well for those in Gaza.

The only real solution is for Jesus to come and straighten this world out (see also The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church).

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Gaza and the Palestinians in Bible Prophecy What does the Bible teach about Gaza and the fate of the Palestinians? Here is a link to a related video: Gaza and Palestine in Prophecy.
Is the Future King of the South Rising Up? Some no longer believe there needs to be a future King of the South. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi or Caliph? What does the Bible say? A YouTube video of related interest may be: The Future King of the South is Rising.
The Prophesied ‘Islamic’ Confederation Where is an Islamic caliphate prophesied? Will one happen? Should you be concerned about it?
The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27 This prophecy could give up to 3 1/2 years advance notice of the coming Great Tribulation. Will most ignore or misunderstand its fulfillment? Here is a link to a related sermon video Daniel 9:27 and the Start of the Great Tribulation.
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims? An item of possibly related interest in the Spanish language would be: Líderes iraníes condenan la hipocresía de Occidente y declaran que ahora es tiempo para prepararse para el Armagedón, la guerra, y el Imán Mahdi.
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? In the Spanish language check out ¿Quién es el Rey del Norte? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar Assad hold power as he has it? Does the Bible show that Damascus, the capital of Syria, will be destroyed? What will happen to Syria? Will the Syrians support the final King of the South that the Bible tells will rise up? Which scriptures discuss the rise and fall of an Arabic confederation? Does Islamic prophecy predict the destruction of Syria. This is a YouTube video.
Egypt in Prophecy Does Egypt have a special role in end time prophecy? Will Egypt rise up and then be defeated. What does God teach will happen to those in Egypt? Here is a link to a YouTube video titled Egypt and End Time Prophecy.
Iraq, the King of the South, Armageddon, and Prophecy What will happen to Iraq? Is it the prophesied Mystery Babylon? What is Armageddon and how does that have to do with Iraq? Here is a related video Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy.
Iran in Prophecy Is Iran in Bible prophecy? If so, what does the Bible teach? What names, other than Persia, may be used to describe Iran? There is also a YouTube video titled Iran in Prophecy. Here is a related video Iran In Prophecy.
What Should You Know About Turkey in Prophecy Do you know the Turkish people descended from? Did the Ottoman Empire possibly fulfill a promise in Genesis? Will Turkey support the European King of the North or Arabic King of the South? Will it betray one of them? Will Turkey be involved in the encouraging the destruction of Israel? Is Turkey going to become Catholic? Is Turkey mentioned in Psalm 83, Daniel 11, and elsewhere in the Bible? This video provides answers.
Jerusalem: Past, Present, and Future What does the Bible say about Jerusalem and its future? Is Jerusalem going to be divided and eliminated? Is Jesus returning to the area of Jerusalem? There is also a related YouTube video you can watch titled Jerusalem To be divided and eliminated.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. A video of possible interest may be Will Will USA Spying Help the Beast Power?
Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West?
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2014, 2015, or 2016? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What is the seven-year deal? 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 City (photo by Joyce Thiel)

COGwriter

The Continuing Church of God produced a relatively popular sermon related to Vatican City which is at its ContinuingCOG channel.

1:09:10

The Vatican, Peter, and ‘Satan’s Throne’

This is an on-location video from Vatican City and Rome, Italy. Topics covered include St. Peter’s basilica, head coverings, the ‘keys of the kingdom,’ where the Apostle Peter was buried, claims about the Apostle Paul, and why the Cathedra Petri may be a representation of ‘Satan’s throne.’

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Vatican, Peter, and ‘Satan’s Throne’ This is an on-location video sermon from Vatican City and Rome, Italy. Topics covered include St. Peter’s basilica, head coverings, the ‘keys of the kingdom,’ where the Apostle Peter was buried, claims about the Apostle Paul, and why the Cathedra Petri may be a representation of ‘Satan’s throne.’
Is this Satan’s Throne? Is the Cathedra Petri really Peter’s seat or might it be something else? There is also a YouTube sermon about Vatican City, Peter, and this same throne shot in Rome and Vatican City: The Vatican, Peter, and ‘Satan’s Throne’.
Was Peter the Rock Who Alone Received the Keys of the Kingdom? How should Matthew 16:18-19 be understood?
The Apostle Peter He was an original apostle and early Christian leader. Where was Peter buried? Where did Peter die?
The Apostle Paul He was a later apostle, but also an early Christian leader.
Joyce’s Photos of Rome, St. John’s Basilica, and the Vatican Rome has been a major world city for centuries. Since the late second century, it has made claims of prominence over Christianity. There is even a photo of what has been described as “Satan’s Throne” () plus the Cathedra Romana.
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. Is telling the truth about the early church citing Catholic accepted sources anti-Catholic? 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.
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?

COGwriter

The Continuing Church of God continues to get additional materials translated into the Spanish language.

Having materials translated into various languages helps us to go through all the ‘doors’ (cf.2 Corinthians 2:12).

Also, in addition to getting every edition of its Bible News Prophecy magazine translated into Spanish, more and more articles have been as well. Here are links to some of them I was sent yesterday

Failure or success? How to change the outcome?
¿Éxito o fracaso? ¿Cómo cambiar el resultado?
http://www.cdlidd.es/exito-o-fracaso-como-cambiar-el-resultado/

Kiev rejects separatists proposal for cease-fire and attacks
Kiev rechaza propuesta de separatistas por cese al fuego y ataca
http://www.cdlidd.es/kiev-rechaza-propuesta-de-separatistas-por-cese-al-fuego-y-ataca/

Islamic State kills 500 Yazidis who would not convert; 20,000 hidden escape; USA drops more bombs.
Estado Islámico mata 500 Yazidis que no se convirtieron; 20,000 escondidos escapan; EE.UU. dejó caer más bombas
http://www.cdlidd.es/estado-islamico-mata-500-yazidis-que-no-se-convirtieron-20000-escondidos-escapan-ee-uu-dejo-caer-mas-bombas/

Pope Francis on war and peace–does he not remember history or the Bible?
El Papa Francisco sobre la guerra y la paz -¿No recuerda él la historia o la Biblia?
http://www.cdlidd.es/el-papa-francisco-sobre-la-guerra-y-la-paz-no-recuerda-el-la-historia-o-la-biblia/

Obama’s aloof style disturbing Germany, the real ‘cost of coolness,’ and the ‘King of Europe’ Griffin?
Estilo distante de Obama perturba a Alemania, el verdadero ‘costo de la frialdad’, y Grifo el ‘Rey de Europa’?
http://www.cdlidd.es/estilo-distante-de-obama-perturba-a-alemania-el-verdadero-costo-de-la-frialdad-y-grifo-el-rey-de-europa/

PCG states Putin IS the ‘prince of Rosh,’ but…
PCG sostiene que Putin ES el ‘príncipe de Rosh’, pero…
http://www.cdlidd.es/pcg-sostiene-que-putin-es-el-principe-de-rosh-pero/

Can the Great Tribulation Begin in 2014 or 2015? Is it the Time of the Gentiles
¿Puede comenzar la Gran Tribulación en 2014 o 2015? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles?
http://www.cdlidd.es/puede-comenzar-la-gran-tribulacion-en-2014-o-2015-es-el-tiempo-de-los-gentiles/

USA accuses Russia of serious nuclear treaty violation, EU looking to increase sanctions, while fighting continues in Donetsk
EE.UU. acusa a Rusia de seria violación de tratado nuclear, UE buscando incrementar sanciones, mientras los combates continúan en Donetsk
http://www.cdlidd.es/ee-uu-acusa-a-rusia-de-seria-violacion-de-tratado-nuclear-ue-buscando-incrementar-sanciones-mientras-los-combates-continuan-en-donetsk/

David Axelrod is critical of Hillary Clinton’s critical comments related to Obama policies
David Axelrod es crítico de los críticos comentarios de Hillary Clinton relacionados con las políticas de Obama
http://www.cdlidd.es/david-axelrod-es-critico-de-los-criticos-comentarios-de-hillary-clinton-relacionados-con-las-politicas-de-obama/

Iraq’s al-Maliki refuses to step down, while USA and Iran back same replacement
Al-Maliki de Irak rehúsa dejar el poder, mientras los EE.UU: e Irán respaldan el mismo reemplazo
http://www.cdlidd.es/al-maliki-de-irak-rehusa-dejar-el-poder-mientras-los-ee-uu-e-iran-respaldan-al-mismo-reemplazo/

Ukrainian tanks closing in on east, while NATO suspects Russia will intervene
Tanques ucranianos acercándose al este, mientras la OTAN sospecha que Rusia intervendrá
http://www.cdlidd.es/tanques-ucranianos-acercandose-al-este-mientras-la-otan-sospecha-que-rusia-intervendra/

Cartwright’s Journal Out: Upcoming AC Pasadena reunion, COG merger, John Kiesz, and blood moons
Salió Journal de Cartwright: Próxima reunión AC en Pasadena, mezcla de COG, John Kiesz, y lunas rojas
http://www.cdlidd.es/salio-journal-de-cartwright-proxima-reunion-ac-en-pasadena-mezcla-de-cog-john-kiesz-y-lunas-rojas/

Panama canal’s 100th anniversary has Hong Kong running it and Europeans expanding it
Aniversario del canal de Panamá tiene a Hong Kong manejándolo y a los europeos expandiéndolo
http://www.cdlidd.es/aniversario-del-canal-de-panama-tiene-a-hong-kong-manejandolo-y-a-los-europeos-expandiendolo/

Chuck Hagel: ‘World is exploding all over’
Chuck Hagel: ‘El mundo está explotando en todas partes’
http://www.cdlidd.es/chuck-hagel-el-mundo-esta-explotando-en-todas-partes/

The Continuing Church of God has a separate Spanish language website http://www.cdlidd.es. The term Continuing Church of God translates into La Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios in the Spanish language.

Spanish has the second highest number of native speakers of any other language (Mandarin Chinese is number one, and the Continuing Church of God has a website primarily focused on those speakers at www.ccog.asia; English is number 3).

The Continuing Church of God is reaching people around the world in multiple languages via the internet, printed literature, and human church leads around the world. We also reach people over the radio and through videos in the English language.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Mexico, Central America, South America, Brazil, and the Caribbean in Prophecy [Español: México, América central, Suramérica, Brasil y el Caribe en la profecía] [Português: México, América Central, Ámérica do Sul, e Brasil na profecia] What will happen to those of Latin America? Will they have prosperity? Will they cooperate with Europe? Will they suffer in the future? What role might the various Caribbean nations/territories play?
Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God. And the one that is leading the final phase of the work. That written article has also been translated into Spanish La Fase Final de la Obra.
CCOG.ASIA We in the Continuing Church of God also have the url www.ccog.asia which has a focus on Asia and has various articles in Mandarin Chinese as well as some in English, plus some items in other Asian languages. 我们在继续神的教会也提供此网址 www.ccog.asia, 关注于亚洲并且有各种各样的中英文文章，其中一些用菲律宾语翻译的文章也正在进行中，准备添加到这个网站中。 HHere is a link to our Statement of Beliefs in Mandarin Chinese 继续神的教会的信仰声明.
CCOG.IN This is a website targeted towards those of Indian heritage. It has a link to an edited Hindi translation of The Mystery of the Ages and is expected to have more non-English language materials in the future.
CCOG.EU This is a website targeted toward Europe. It has materials in more than one language (currently it has English, Dutch, and Serbian, with links also to Spanish) and it is intended to have additional language materials added.
PNIND.PH Patuloy na Iglesya ng Diyos. This is the Philippines website Continuing Church of God. It has information in English and Tagalog.
CDLIDD.ES La Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios. This is the Spanish language website for the Continuing Church of God.

Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez

COGwriter

Pope Francis answered a reporters question about China and lifted a beatification ban related to a bishop from El Salvador:

August 19, 2014

Here below we publish a Vatican-approved English translation of Pope Francis’ hour-long airborne press conference, given Monday on the flight back from South Korea. …

Q. My question is about China.  China allowed you to fly over its airspace. The telegram that you sent (en route to Korea) was received without negative comments.  Do you think these are step forward towards a possible dialogue? And have you a desire to go to China? [Father Lombardi intervenes.  I can inform you that we are now flying in the airspace over China at this moment. So the question is pertinent.]

A.   When we were about to enter into the Chinese airspace (en route to Korea), I was in the cockpit with the pilots, and one of them showed me a register and said, we’re only ten minutes away from entering the Chinese airspace, we must ask authorization.  One always asks for this.  It’s a normal thing, one asks for it from each country. And I heard how they asked for the authorization, how they responded.  I was a witness to this.  The pilot then said we send a telegram, but I don’t know how they did it.

Then I left them and I returned to my place and I prayed a lot for that beautiful and noble Chinese people, a wise people.  I think of the great wise men of China, I think of the history of science and wisdom.  And we Jesuits have a history there with Father Ricci.  All these things came into my mind.

If I want to go to China?  For sure! To-morrow!

We respect the Chinese people.  The Church only asks for liberty  for its task, for its work.  There’s no other condition.

Then we should not forget that fundamental letter for the Chinese problems which was the one sent to the Chinese by Pope Benedict XVI. This letter is actual (relevant) today. It is actual. It’s good to re-read it.

The Holy See is always open to contacts Always. Because it has a true esteem for the Chinese people.  http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/vatican-approved-transcript-of-pope-francis-airborne-press-conference-from-korea

So, the Pope was allowed to fly over Chinese airspace twice on this trip–once going over and once coming back.  That represents a change for the Chinese as they did not allow Pope John Paul II to do so (see Pope Francis in South Korea after sending a message to China).

Pope Francis wants the Chinese as part of his interfaith agenda and keeps making overtures towards them.

Yesterday, Pope Francis also did the following:

August 18, 2014

Pope Francis has lifted a ban on the beatification of murdered Salvadoran Archbishop Oscar Romero.

For years, the Roman Catholic Church blocked the process because of concerns that he had Marxist ideas.

An outspoken critic of the military regime during El Salvador’s bloody civil war, Archbishop Romero was shot dead while celebrating Mass in 1980.

Beatification, or declaring a person “blessed”, is the necessary prelude to full sainthood.

The bishop was one of the main proponents of Liberation Theology – an interpretation of Christian faith through the perspective of the poor.

‘Death squads’

On Monday, the Pope said he was hoping for a swift beatification process.

“For me Romero is a man of God,” the pontiff told journalists on the plane bringing him back from a trip to South Korea.

“There are no doctrinal problems and it is very important that [the beatification] is done quickly.”

It seems Francis hasn’t finished wielding his new broom at the Vatican just yet, despite being Pope for more than a year now. After peering into the dark corners of the Vatican’s banking system, and pushing an inclusive brand of Catholicism, he’s now tackling what’s been a painful episode for many Catholics.

Francis’s decision to send the case of the Archbishop Romero to the Vatican’s saint-making office flies in the face of what his two predecessors advocated.  http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-28845998

Typically, the Vatican used to require proof of two ‘miracles’ for beatification, but Pope Francis waived this earlier this year for John XXIII and apparently wishes to waive it for the bishop from El Salvador.  Many in El Salvador will be pleased with this.

Was this also done to further send a signal to China?  Perhaps.

Both the Chinese (e.g. China moving toward one world religion! Pope to conduct mass in South Korea.) and the Vatican have been sending signals of more cooperation with each other in the past several weeks.  Partially, this may be because of Pope Francis’ socialistic/communistic economic statements along with China’s own international plans.

The Pope’s agenda is to create strong cooperation and bonds between peoples around the world, so that all we be part of a one-world endorsed religion with the top leader in Rome.

He keeps taking steps to accomplish this.

On other matters, Pope Francis seemed to endorse the idea of papal retirements and also indicated that he expects to die in 2-3 years:

77-year-old Pope Francis is one of the hardest-working world leaders, rarely taking breaks or vacations despite a punishing schedule. It appears that this lifestyle could be taking its toll, as the pope told reporters during a press conference that he feels he may only have a few more years left to live.

On his way back from a trip to Korea, Pope Francis told journalists aboard the papal plane that he is able to cope with his immense popularity because he knows that it will not last forever. In the full transcript provided by America Magazine, the pope said, “Interiorly, I try to think of my sins, my mistakes, so as not to think that I am somebody. Because I know this will last a short time, two or three years, and then to the house of the Father.”

Though he has not previously spoken publicly about his long-term physical health,the Guardian reported that a Vatican source said that he has told those close to him that he may only have a few years left in his life. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/19/pope-francis-retire-death_n_5691299.html?ncid=txtlnkusaolp00000592

If Francis does die in 2-3 years, he obviously would not be the last pope.  But if somehow he ‘dies’ and comes back, that would be an indication that he could be.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Will the Interfaith Movement Lead to Peace or Sudden Destruction? Is the interfaith movement going to lead to lasting peace or is it warned against?
Beware: Protestants Going Towards Ecumenical Destruction! What is going on in the Protestant world? Are Protestants turning back to their ‘mother church’ in Rome? Does the Bible warn about this? What are Catholic plans and prophecies related to this? Is Protestantism doomed?
Do You Know That Babylon is Forming? How is the final Babylon forming? Are Protestants such as Joel Osteen and Kenneth Copeland are endorsing something dangerous? Could Pope Francis be the ‘False Prophet’ that the Bible warns against? Is an antipope expected to endorse a one-world religion? Here is a link to a related written article In Vatican City: New Babylon more openly forming!
Pope Francis: Could this Marian Focused Pontiff be Fulfilling Prophecy? Pope Francis has taken many steps to turn people more towards his version of ‘Mary.’ Could this be consistent with biblical and Catholic prophecies? This article documents what has been happening. There is also a video version titled Pope Francis: Could this Marian Focused Pontiff be Fulfilling Prophecy?
Why Should American Catholics Fear Unity with the Orthodox? Are the current ecumenical meetings a good thing or will they result in disaster? Is doctrinal compromise good? Here is a link to a related video Should you be concerned about the ecumenical movement?
United Nations: Humankind’s Last Hope or New World Order? Is the UN the last hope for humanity? Or might its goals end up with sinister results? A related video would be United Nations and Vatican Are Planning the New World Order.
Which Is Faithful: The Roman Catholic Church or the Continuing Church of God? Do you know that both groups shared a lot of the earliest teachings? Do you know which church changed? Do you know which group is most faithful to the teachings of the apostolic church? Which group best represents true Christianity? This documented article answers those questions.
Could Pope Francis be the Last Pope and Antichrist? According to some interpretations of the prophecies of the popes by the Catholic saint and Bishop Malachy, Pope Francis I is in the position of “Peter the Roman,” the pontiff who reigns during tribulations until around the time of the destruction of Rome. Do biblical prophecies warn of someone that sounds like Peter the Roman? Could Francis I be the heretical antipope of Catholic private prophecies and the final Antichrist of Bible prophecy? This is a YouTube video.
Korea in Prophecy, Any Witness? Where did the Korean people come from? Does God have a plan for the Koreans? Is Korea mentioned in any prophecies? Will Koreans be among the first in the Kingdom of God? Here is a machine-translated link to that article in Korean: 한국의 언어로 : 한국 예언, 모든 증인에?; here is a link to that article in Mandarin Chinese: 在预言中的韩国：有任何证人吗？
Asia in Prophecy What is Ahead for Asia? Who are the “Kings of the East”? What will happen to nearly all the Chinese, Russians, Indians, and others of Asia? China in prophecy, where? Who has the 200,000,000 man army related to Armageddon? A YouTube video of interest may be Is China THE Threat to the United States of America?
The Last Pope Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Why might Pope Francis be the last pope? What happens if he is? Biblical and other prophecies help explain what to expect.
The Last Pope: Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Amazon Book What does the Bible say about a pope near this time? Is the final pope to be an antipope and antichrist? Does Catholic prophecy point to Pope Francis as being the dreaded “Peter the Roman”? This 186 page book provides information and answers.
The Last Pope: Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Kindle This electronic version of the printed book which 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 The Last Pope: Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Kindle.
CCOG.ASIA We in the Continuing Church of God also have the url www.ccog.asia which has a focus on Asia and has various articles in Mandarin Chinese as well as some in English, plus some items in other Asian languages. 我们在继续神的教会也提供此网址 www.ccog.asia, 关注于亚洲并且有各种各样的中英文文章，其中一些用菲律宾语翻译的文章也正在进行中，准备添加到这个网站中。 Here is a link to our Statement of Beliefs in Mandarin Chinese 继续神的教会的信仰声明.

Bashar Hafez al-Assad

COGwriter

Syria and the USA are both fighting the Islamic State:

August 19, 2014

As the U.S. military strikes ISIS militants in Iraq, Syrian President Bashar Assad’s forces have significantly stepped up their own campaign against militant strongholds in Syria, carrying out dozens of airstrikes against the group’s headquarters in the past two days.While the government in Damascus has long turned a blind eye to the expansion of the Islamic State of Syria and Iraq, which now calls itself simply the “Islamic State,” in Syria — in some cases even facilitating its offensive against mainstream, U.S.-backed rebels — the group’s rapid march on towns and villages in northern and eastern Syria is now threatening to overturn recent gains by government forces.

While ISIS militants have so far concentrated their attacks against the Western-backed fighters seeking to topple Assad, they have in the past month carried out a major onslaught against Syrian army facilities in northeastern Syria, capturing and slaughtering hundreds of Syrian soldiers and pro-government militiamen in the process.

On Monday, ISIS fighters were closing in on the last government-held army base in the northeastern Raqqa province, the Tabqa air base, prompting at least 16 Syrian government airstrikes in the area in an attempt to halt their advance.

In the northern city of Aleppo, there is a sense of impending defeat among mainstream rebels as ISIS militants systematically routed them last week in towns and villages only a few miles north of the city. An ISIS takeover of rebel-held parts of Aleppo also would be disastrous for Syrian government troops who have been gaining ground in the city in past months. …

Analysts say Assad‘s strikes aim at sending a message that he is on the same side as the Americans, reinforcing the Syrian government’s longstanding claim that it is a partner in the fight against terrorism and a counterbalance to extremists. That comes after the U.S. itself nearly bombed Syria after it blamed Assad’s forces for a chemical weapons attack on rebel-held areas near Damascus last August.

“Assad would surely love to regain international acceptance via a ‘war on terror’ and maybe that is his long-term plan, in so far as he has one,” Syria analyst Aron Lund said. http://www.cbsnews.com/news/isis-us-airstrikes-iraq-jihadists-pose-threat-in-syria/

For years, the USA has supported the opposition to Bashar al-Assad.  Assad sometimes saw ISIS as a group to fight the ‘moderates’ that the USA supported to overturn him.  Now, some of the ‘moderates’ against Assad are losing to ISIS, which also means that there is less opposition to Assad other than ISIS.

So, the USA is fighting ISIS, who now seems to be the leading opponent to the Assad regime. The USA has had troubles as it has tried to intervene in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and elsewhere.

In terms of USA successes related to Syria, the USA seems pleased that certain of Assad’s chemical weapons have been destroyed:

August 18, 2014

A specially equipped U.S. ship has finished neutralizing all 600 metric tons of the most dangerous of Syria’s chemical weapons components surrendered to the international community this year to avert threatened airstrikes, the Pentagon said on Monday.

It said the Cape Ray, equipped with the U.S.-developed Field Deployable Hydrolysis System, neutralized 581.5 metric tons of DF, a sarin precursor chemical, and 19.8 metric tons of HD, an ingredient of sulfur mustard, while afloat in the Mediterranean.

The vessel will travel to Finland and Germany in the next two weeks to unload the resulting effluent, which will undergo treatment as industrial waste to render it safer, a Pentagon spokeswoman said.

It was the first time chemical weapons components had been neutralized at sea, the Pentagon said.

U.S. President Barack Obama says the destruction of the last of Syria’s declared chemical stockpile is a major milestone in stopping the spread of weapons of mass destruction. http://www.voanews.com/content/reu-pentagon-us-ship-finishes-neutralizing-syrias-worst-chemical-arms/2418007.html

Despite the above destruction, there were reports a little while back that other types of chemical weapons were used in Syria (see Assad’s chlorine bombs and re-election).  But eliminating 581.5 metric tons of a sarin precursor chemical and 19.8 metric tons of an ingredient of sulfur mustard may help prevent some from being affected by chemical weapons.

Despite the USA and Syria taking military steps against the Islamic State/ISIS, the situation in Syria will one day change.  The Bible suggests that Syria will be involved in a confederation of North African and Middle Eastern nations (Ezekiel 30:1-9; Psalm 83:4-8) who will support a leader that the Bible refers to as the final King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43).  Thus, this likely means that the Assad regime will have to at least change, if not completely fall, and that whatever regime replaces it, it will most likely agree to be in this prophesied confederation. And that will be a confederation that is also prophesied to fail (which is something that all in the Middle East and North Africa will be better off realizing). Various Islamic groups have long pushed for the type of confederation that the Bible warns will involve many Arabic nations and end in the destruction of this confederation (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:1-9).

The Bible also warns about destruction coming to Syria’s capital Damascus.

Actually, both biblical and Islamic prophecy foretell of the destruction of at least parts of Syria. Here is some of what Bible prophecies teach:

7 thus says the Lord God: “It shall not stand, Nor shall it come to pass. 8 For the head of Syria is Damascus (Isaiah 7:7-8).

3 Thus says the Lord: “For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, Because they have threshed Gilead with implements of iron. (Amos 1:3)

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

23 Against Damascus. “Hamath and Arpad are shamed, For they have heard bad news. They are fainthearted; There is trouble on the sea; It cannot be quiet. 24 Damascus has grown feeble; She turns to flee, And fear has seized her. Anguish and sorrows have taken her like a woman in labor. 25 Why is the city of praise not deserted, the city of My joy? 26 Therefore her young men shall fall in her streets, And all the men of war shall be cut off in that day,” says the Lord of hosts. 27 “I will kindle a fire in the wall of Damascus, And it shall consume the palaces of Ben-Hadad.” (Jeremiah 49:23-27)

Damascus has been claimed to be the “oldest continuously inhabited city” in the world. And while some have questioned that, the reality is that Damascus has not been destroyed to the point of becoming the “ruinous heap” since God inspired Isaiah to record that.  Notice something from Islamic prophecy:

black standards will advance from Khurasan; al-Yamani will come out in revolt; al-Maghribi will appear in Egypt and take possession of it from Syria; the Turk will occupy the region of al-Jazira; the Byzantines will occupy Ramla; the star will appear in the east giving light just like the moon gives light; then (the new moon) will bend until its two tips almost meet; a colour will appear in the sky and spread to its horizons; a fire will appear for a long time in the east remaining in the air for three or seven days; the Arabs will throw off the reins and take possession of their land, throwing out the foreign authority; the people of Egypt will kill their ruler and destroy Syria; and three standards will dispute over it (Syria)…

The Abbasids will dispute; a voice will call from the sky; one of the villages of Syria called al-Jabiyya will be swallowed up; the Turks will occupy the region of al-Jazira; the Byzantines will attack al-Ramla; at that time there will be much conflict throughout the land until Syria is destroyed.

(Kitab al Irshad Chapter: The Twelfth Imam (Peace be on him) Page (s): 541 – 548 Published by Tehrike Tersile Qura’n.  Contributed by Br. Ali Abbas, abbas@seas.gwu.edu  http://www.al-islam.org/masoom/bios/12thimam.html viewed 7/22/12)

The tradition reports Muhammad said that the advent of the Mahdi would be signaled by “Black Standards” proceeding from Khorasan. …

A black flag with the shahada inscribed in white was spotted on Jihadist websites from at least 2001. Even though the historical black banner did not have any inscription, this variant is commonly known as al-rāya “the banner” or rayat al-`uqab “banner of the eagle” after the hadith tradition, and has been dubbed the black flag of jihad by western observers.Islamic extremist organizations that used such a black flag include al‑Qaeda, al‑Shabaab, the Islamic Courts Union, the ISIS and Hizbul Islam (2009). Some variant designs depict the second phrase of the shahada in the form of the historical seal of Muhammad (Wikipedia, Black Standard, viewed July 5, 2014)

The Islamic State uses the black standard as its flag and seems to hope that it will fulfill some of the Islamic prophecy.

Destruction is coming to Syria’s capital Damascus according to to biblical prophecy and some associated with Islam hope to bring this about.

This destruction could come as the result of the current war with the Islamic State. And if the Assad regime broadly uses chemical weapons and/or becomes engaged in a conflict with Israel and/or the West (called ‘Byzantines’ in some Islamic prophecy), that could also fulfill the above.

The situation for Arab world will have ups and downs. The Bible tells of a time of a peace deal that will affect the region, but that deal will not last (Daniel 9:27) and more war will later come (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:2-8).

While few wish to believe it, it will take the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the Kingdom of God to truly solve the conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere. Those in Syria are in my prayers.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar Assad hold power as he has it? Does the Bible show that Damascus, the capital of Syria, will be destroyed? What will happen to Syria? Will the Syrians support the final King of the South that the Bible tells will rise up? Which scriptures discuss the rise and fall of an Arabic confederation? Does Islamic prophecy predict the destruction of Syria. This is a YouTube video.
The ‘Peace Deal’ of Daniel 9:27 This prophecy could give up to 3 1/2 years advance notice of the coming Great Tribulation. Will most ignore or misunderstand its fulfillment? Here is a link to a related sermon video Daniel 9:27 and the Start of the Great Tribulation.
The Prophesied ‘Islamic’ Confederation Where is an Islamic caliphate prophesied? Will one happen? Should you be concerned about it? Here is a link to a related video video: Will an Arabic Calphiphate Destroy the West?
Iraq, the King of the South, Armageddon, and Prophecy What will happen to Iraq? Is it the prophesied Mystery Babylon? What is Armageddon and how does that have to do with Iraq? Here is a related video Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy.
Iran in Prophecy Is Iran in Bible prophecy? If so, what does the Bible teach? What names, other than Persia, may be used to describe Iran? There is also a YouTube video titled Iran in Prophecy. Here is a related video Iran In Prophecy.
Is the Future King of the South Rising Up? Some no longer believe there needs to be a future King of the South. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi or Caliph? What does the Bible say? A YouTube video of related interest may be: The Future King of the South is Rising. The Muslim Brotherhood and the Rise of the King of the South The Bible tells of the formation of a power of nations that are in the Middle East and North Africa that are part of the final “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40-43) The Muslim Brotherhood wishes to have an Islamic empire with basically the same nations. This YouTube video explains what to expect from such a confederation.
The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What about the Imam Mahdi? What lies ahead for Turkey, Iran, and the other non-Arabic Muslims? An item of possibly related interest in the Spanish language would be: Líderes iraníes condenan la hipocresía de Occidente y declaran que ahora es tiempo para prepararse para el Armagedón, la guerra, y el Imán Mahdi.
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God was the Emphasis of Jesus and the Early Church Did you know that? Do you even know what the gospel of the kingdom is all about? You can also see a YouTube video sermon The Gospel of the Kingdom.
Just What Do You Mean the Kingdom of God? A booklet that was written by Herbert Armstrong answers questions about the Kingdom.
Libya, Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia in Prophecy What is ahead for North Africa? What does the Bible teach?
Gaza and the Palestinians in Bible Prophecy What does the Bible teach about Gaza and the fate of the Palestinians? Here is a link to a related video: Gaza and Palestine in Prophecy.
World War III: Steps in Progress Are there surprising actions going on now that are leading to WWIII? Might a nuclear attack be expected? Does the Bible promise protection to all or only some Christians? How can you be part of those that will be protected? A related video would be Is World War III About to Begin? Can You Escape?
Wars, rumors of wars, and the Apocalypse Jesus foretold a time before the end where there would be wars and rumors of wars. The Apocalypse (the Book of Revelation) warns of the red horseman of war. Now, even secular writers, like Larry Edelson, are worried that wars and rumors of war are the most menacing problem that now haunts the earth? Are they right? What is the solution? This is a sermonette-length video.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo-Saxon nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

(Photo by Gebruiker:Ellywa)

COGwriter

The BBC had the following:

Nothing unites different nations quite like mutual enemies. …

Certainly, in Paris – though no-one in government would presume to say it openly – there is no enthusiasm for Scottish independence.

One factor is the regional example. France believes in the nation state, and would look askance at regions like Corsica or Brittany getting too strong ideas about hiving themselves off.

However, according to political scientist Dominique Moisi, that is not the real reason for French lack of support on independence.

“France is not Spain, where the precedent Scotland might set for Catalonia is very real. Here the regions make a lot of noise, but there is no risk of separation.

“No, for France the argument against Scottish independence is our dream of a strong United Kingdom, fully engaged in Europe, whose purpose is to counter-balance a Germany that gets more powerful every year.

“Anything that detracts from that strong United Kingdom – as Scottish independence would do – goes against French ambitions in Europe.”  http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-28739399

So, concerns about containing a more powerful Germany are partially behind French reticence to support independence for Scotland.  But this does not mean that Scotland or the rest of the UK will remain part of the European Union.

Notice also:

August 18, 2014

LONDON –  Scotland’s pro-independence leader is insisting his campaign is headed for victory — one month before the historic Sept. 18 referendum.

First Minister Alex Salmond told The Associated Press on Monday that those seeking independence have always been the underdogs.

But Salmond seemed buoyant after new polls suggest that Scotland’s voters are only narrowly divided on whether to leave the United Kingdom. However, polls consistently show those favoring union in the lead.  http://www.foxnews.com/world/2014/08/18/scotland-pro-independence-leader-says-victory-is-on-way-one-month-from/

As I have mentioned in the past, the United Kingdom is not so united that Scotland could not possibly leave. As far as Scotland goes, even if it gets independence, I expect that it will normally cooperate with England and the rest of the remaining UK. But I do believe that if Scotland gains independence this will not be good for the rest of the UK.

Consider that both biblical and Catholic prophecy tell of a time to come when the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies will be taken over and have their land divided. Here are a couple of prophecies from the Bible, the first of which refers to the USA as it currently has the ‘strongest fortresses’ (its Anglo-Saxon allies would also be affected):

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

16 The anger of the LORD hath divided them; he will no more regard them (Lamentations 4:16, KJV).

2 And I will enter into judgment with them there On account of My people, My heritage Israel, Whom they have scattered among the nations; They have also divided up My land. They have also cast lots for my people…(Joel 3:2-3, NKJV).

17… Your land shall be divided by survey line; You shall die in a defiled land; And Israel shall surely be led away captive From his own land (Amos 7:17, NKJV)

I used the KJV for Lamentations 4:16 as it correctly translated the Hebrew word as divided. The is term translated as “scattered them” by the NKJV in Lamentations, but it is the same Hebrew word (Strong’s 2505) used in Daniel 11:39 translated as “divide.” These are prophecies related to the dividing of the USA and the lands of its Anglo-Saxon allies (see also Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves?).

Notice also why this happens:

10 “And it shall be, when you show this people all these words, and they say to you, ‘Why has the Lord pronounced all this great disaster against us? Or what is our iniquity? Or what is our sin that we have committed against the Lord our God?’ 11 then you shall say to them, ‘Because your fathers have forsaken Me,’ says the Lord; ‘they have walked after other gods and have served them and worshiped them, and have forsaken Me and not kept My law. 12 And you have done worse than your fathers, for behold, each one follows the dictates of his own evil heart, so that no one listens to Me. 13 Therefore I will cast you out of this land into a land that you do not know, neither you nor your fathers; and there you shall serve other gods day and night, where I will not show you favor.’ (Jeremiah 16:10-13)

47 “Because you did not serve the LORD your God with joy and gladness of heart, for the abundance of everything, 48 therefore you shall serve your enemies, whom the LORD will send against you, in hunger, in thirst, in nakedness, and in need of everything; and He will put a yoke of iron on your neck until He has destroyed you. 49 The LORD will bring a nation against you from afar, from the end of the earth, as swift as the eagle flies, a nation whose language you will not understand, 50 a nation of fierce countenance, which does not respect the elderly nor show favor to the young. 51 And they shall eat the increase of your livestock and the produce of your land, until you are destroyed; they shall not leave you grain or new wine or oil, or the increase of your cattle or the offspring of your flocks, until they have destroyed you. 52 They shall besiege you at all your gates until your high and fortified walls, in which you trust, come down throughout all your land; and they shall besiege you at all your gates throughout all your land which the LORD your God has given you (Deuteronomy 28:47-52).

I have suspected for some time that “a nation whose language you will not understand” is Germany, or at least a German dominated European Beast power.

Catholic sources also tell of a time of trouble and destruction coming to the USA and Anglo-Saxon descended nations:

Mother Shipton (d. 1551) “The time will come when England shall tremble and quake…London shall be destroyed forever after . . . and then York shall be London and the Kingdom governed by three Lords appointed by a Royal Great monarch…who will set England right and drive out heresy (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), p. 163).

Saint Cataldus of Tarentino (c. 500): “The Great Monarch will be in war till he is forty years of age….he will assemble great armies and expel tyrants from his empire. He will conquer England and other island empires” (Connor, p.30).

St. Columbine (d. 597): …the English shall be defeated…After the English shall be defeated…they shall be harassed by every quarter; like a fawn surrounded by a pack of voracious hounds, shall be the position of the English amidst their enemies. The English afterwards shall dwindle down to a disreputable people (Culleton, pp. 131,132).

Zachary the Armenian (published 1854 and summarized in 2010): And then there would be the war that the prophecy refers to as “the struggle of the strong, against the strong”. This empire of the north…will go to war against North America and North America will be fall and be conquered and brought into bondage. The next phase is the most frightful thing of all. It is then that Zachary says this text published in 1854, “and then the whole world fell under the dominion of the first born of hell.” (Originally by Priest Fattecelli, Day of Anger: The Hand of God Upon an Empire, 1854, as paraphrased by Priest P. Kramer, What are the missing contents of the third secret? Fatima Crusader, 95, Summer 2010, pp. 45-46)

St. Senanus (d. 560): They (English) themselves will betray each other: in consequence their sovereignty will be broken…One monarch will rule in Ireland over the English (Culleton, p. 128).

Hence, at least one Catholic prophecy shows that the United Kingdom will be divided up (among Europe), another that the English shall be harassed all over, and one above that also includes North America (USA and Canada).

Notice that they are to be taken over by a “Great Monarch” (who seems to be the same person as the King of the North of the Bible) and possibly be under Irish domination. According to Catholic prophecy the Great Monarch will be the leader of the revived European “Holy Roman Empire.” Perhaps it should be mentioned that the nation was not known as “England” when two the above prophecies were given–hence they seem to be a reference to the Anglo-Saxon derived peoples as opposed to only the area known now as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (which also includes Wales and Scotland).

I have believed for some time that many will rely on Catholic prophecies for their justification for what they will do the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies. I also believe that those prophecies are part of Satan’s plan to deceive (see also Satan’s Plan and/or watch the video Satan’s Plan A Brief Introduction).

Irrespective of the wishes of the French, a German dominance of the European Union is occurring (and the USA is encouraging this, watch also the video 10 Steps Obama Has Taken Leading to the Rise of the Beast).

This dominance will happen whether or not Scotland achieves temporary ‘independence’ from the UK or not.

Bible prophecy foretells it.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo-Saxon nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.
Will the Anglo-Saxon Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
British are the Covenant People What do ‘British’ and ‘Britain’ mean in Hebrew? Are the descendants of the Anglo-Saxons people of the covenant? Does the British royal family connect to the throne of David? What does the Bible teach? What does history show us? Is there any DNA evidence related to British-Israelism? When did Christianity make it to the British Isles? Could Jeremiah have made it to the British Isles? What type of Christians made it to the British Isles? Did the last King of England believe in British Israelism?
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no Final End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West? Here is a version in the Spanish language: ¿Quién es el Rey del Occidente? ¿Por qué no hay un Rey del Occidente en la profecía del tiempo del fin?
Germany’s Assyrian Roots Throughout History Are the Germanic peoples descended from Asshur of the Bible? Have there been real Christians in Germanic history? What about the “Holy Roman Empire”? There is also a You-Tube video sermon on this titled Germany’s Biblical Origins.
Germany in Biblical and Catholic Prophecy Does Assyria in the Bible equate to an end time power inhabiting the area of the old Roman Empire? What does prophecy say Germany will do and what does it say will happen to most of the German people? Here is a link to a video Is the USA Pushing Germany to Start WWIII?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? In the Spanish language check out ¿Quién es el Rey del Norte? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
Satan’s Plan Does Satan have a plan? What is it? Has it already been successful? Will it be successful in the future? Here is a link to a related video: Satan’s Plan A Brief Introduction.
Catholic Prophecies: Do They Mirror, Highlight, or Contradict Biblical Prophecies? People of all faiths may be surprised to see what various Roman and Orthodox Catholic prophets have been predicting as many of their predictions will be looked to in the 21st century.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term This is a 160 page book for people truly interested in prophecies related to Barack Obama and the United States, including learning about many that have already been fulfilled (which the book documents in detail) and those that will be fulfilled in the future. It also has a chapter about a Republican choice. This book is available to order at www.barackobamaprophecy.com. The physical book can also be purchased at Amazon from the following link: Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States: Is Barack Obama Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic Catholic, Kenyan, and other America-Related Prophecies? What About Republican Leaders? Second Edition for Second Obama Term.
Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition. This electronic version is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Term-Amazon Kindle edition.

Logo of Boko Haram (ArnoldPlaton)

COGwriter

There more disturbing reports about the Islamic terrorist group called Boko Haram:

August 18, 2014

YAOUNDE—Fotocol, a Cameroonian town across the border from Nigeria’s Borno state – the base of the Islamist group Boko Haram – looks deserted.So, too, are many surrounding villages where stray bullets regularly strike houses, killing people and animals, when Boko Haram gunmen carry out attacks.

Cameroon’s border area are becoming increasingly deserted due to persistent attacks, looting and kidnappings by suspected members of the militant group.

Government officials are pleading with the former residents to return, but the residents say they fear for their safety. …

The extremists opened fire on residents in May in an attack people said left at least 300 villagers dead.

Kolofata, a town not far from Fotocol, is deserted. …

The hardline Boko Haram group has massacred, kidnapped and looted several times in the areas, even with the government military nearby.

About 500 soldiers have been deployed in Kolofata, Fotocol and the surrounding area to provide security for residents.

Cameroon shares a 2,000-kilometer border with Nigeria and is increasingly targeted by Boko Haram. http://www.voanews.com/content/cameroon-villagers-flee-boko-haram-cross-border-attacks/2416852.html

Exploded Tear Gas and Canister (Ντουντούκα)

COGwriter

The situation remains tense as violence has been continuing in Ferguson, Missouri:

August 18, 2014

The governor of the central U.S. state of Missouri has ordered the National Guard to the town of Ferguson, after a week of sometimes violent protests sparked by the shooting death of an unarmed black teenager by a white police officer.

Late Sunday, police in body armor and gas masks accompanied by armored vehicles fired tear gas to disperse a crowd marching toward them.

Police says some protesters threw firebombs and engaged in shootings, looting and vandalism.  At least two protesters were wounded in the shootings and shots were also fired at police, but no officers were reported wounded.

Police described the violence as “premeditated criminal acts” designed to damage property, hurt people and provoke a response.  Several people were arrested.

Protesters denied reports of any acts of violence before police began using tear gas.

The violence took place a few hours before an overnight curfew began.

Violent protests and looting in Ferguson have been almost nightly occurrences since the August 9 death of 18-year-old Michael Brown.

Late Sunday, The New York Times reported preliminary results from a private autopsy showed Brown was shot at least six times, including twice in the head.

The Times said the pathologist who performed the autopsy, Michael Baden, found one of the bullets entered the top of Brown’s skull, suggesting his head was bent forward when the bullet struck him and caused a fatal injury.  The pathologist said that could be because Brown was giving up, or because he was charging at the officer.

Brown’s family had requested the private autopsy.  http://www.voanews.com/content/protesters-police-calsh-following-shooting-death-of-black-teen-in-us/2416714.html

Here is one report about some of what seems to have happened and led up to the shooting:

August 18, 2014

Brown didn’t have a car or his license. Like many here, he walked to nearby stores, including the day he was shot.

Seltzer watched him leave that day in a T-shirt, shorts and flip-flops. Brown, who Seltzer teased as being “LeBron big,” was headed for a nearby minimart to buy cigarillos, cigars often used to smoke marijuana.

He stopped to chat with two white landscapers who had been chopping down trees in the complex. They complained about the work, and Brown put it in perspective.

He told them “be thankful you have a job because some people don’t have jobs around here,” recalled Seltzer, who is among the unemployed.

Moments later, he said, Brown departed with a friend, Dorian Johnson, 22, promising to be right back.

Police said Brown then walked to a minimart and stole some cigarillos. …

Brown was later shot after being confronted on Canfield Drive by Police Officer Darren Wilson in front of several apartment residents.

A woman who lives in the complex and asked not to be identified for fear of being targeted by residents and police said she heard the commotion and ran to her balcony. She said Brown threw his hands up in the air, shouting, “Don’t shoot!”

“The officer kept shooting, and he fell to his knees, begging for his life,” the woman said. “ That’s when he finished him off, shot him in the head. http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/national_world/2014/08/18/ferguson-grieves-for-mans-lost-future.html

I would add that someone told me he saw a video related to the stealing of the cigarillos where Michael Brown seemed threatening to the store clerk–Michael Brown should not have done that.  Stealing is also wrong.  Trying to get high on marijuana is wrong.  There are reports that Michael Brown charged at and/or injured the police officer, which would also be wrong.  However, it would also seem that shooting Michael Brown six times for his actions was also wrong.

Anyway, I do not condone the use of excessive force by the government nor violent protests against the government.  Multiple wrongs do not make a right and violence begets violence.  After Jesus was being mistreated by semi-governmental authorities, one of His followers attempted to use a sword to try to change the situation.  Notice what Jesus said:

52 Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. (Matthew 26:52, KJV)

Vengeance belongs to God:

17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. (Romans 12:17-19, NKJV)

As far as violence goes, the Bible also shows that God is against violence and that destruction will come because of it:

23 ‘Make a chain,
For the land is filled with crimes of blood,
And the city is full of violence.
24 Therefore I will bring the worst of the Gentiles,
And they will possess their houses;
I will cause the pomp of the strong to cease,
And their holy places shall be defiled. (Ezekiel 7:23-24)

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality…30…violent, proud, boasters,…31…unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. (Romans 1:28-32)

8…And the violence of the land and the city, And of all who dwell in it. ( Habakkuk 2:8)

In my view, some of the protesters and some in the government turn too quickly to violence.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

God’s Grace is For All Is being Jewish a hindrance to salvation? What about not being a descendant of Israel? What does the Bible really teach? Here is a link to a related sermon titled Race and Grace; Do you view race as God does?
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare or Encourage Violence? Here are current and historical perspectives on a matter which show the beliefs of the true church on military participation. Is war proper for Christians? A related sermon would be: Christians, Violence, and Military Service.
Should Christians Smoke Tobacco or Marijuana?  Is smoking a sin? What does the Bible teach? What have COG leaders written? Can smokers change? What about marijuana?
Marijuana: Should a Christian Get High? There is increasing acceptance of the use of marijuana. How should Christians view this? Here is a related video titled How Should a Christian View Marijuana?
Is American Football Evil? Is the most popular spectator sport in the USA something that Christians should watch? What do the Bible and early writings show? There is also a YouTube video available titled Should Christians watch American football?
Christian Soldiers How are Christians to be like soldiers? How are they to be different?
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo-Saxon nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be Barack Obama and the State of the Apocalypse.
Will the Anglo-Saxon Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
The Ten Commandments Reflect Love, Breaking them is Evil Some feel that the ten commandments are a burden. Is that what Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John taught?

Richard Dawkins (Photo by Shane Pope)

COGwriter

Richard Dawkins did a video a while back. In the video he says ” “Something Pretty Mysterious MUST have given rise to the origin of the universe.”

But it cannot. And it seems like Richard Dawkins is admitting that.

Evolution as a model for the origin of life does not work, from a purely biological scientific basis. Scientific models for the origination of the universe without a Creator God also do not work as they rely on unproven assumptions and/or violate currently understood scientific laws of physics and/or chemistry.

As a scientist, I have long known that proponents of evolution treat the subject more like a religious view than a scientific theory. It is in the Bible that we are told that when God made the universe and the life on this planet (Genesis 1). The idea of an ‘intelligent design’ by a Spirit being is the only explanation that does not defy scientifically provable knowledge–for all other explanations result in violations of known science.

By the way, God apparently expects humans to realize that He exists through various aspects of His creation. Notice:

20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse (Romans 1:20).

Evolution has led to the intentional ignorance of appropriate scientific methods. It became a religion for many in the 19th century, and remains one for many today.

Some items of possibly related interest may include the following:

Is God’s Existence Logical? Some say it is not logical to believe in God. Is that true? Here is a link to a YouTube sermon titled Is it logical to believe in God?
Is Evolution Probable or Impossible or Is God’s Existence Logical? Part II This short article clearly answers what ‘pseudo-scientists’ refuse to acknowledge. Here is a link to a YouTube video titled Quickly Disprove Evolution as the Origin of Life.
How Old is the Earth and How Long Were the Days of Creation? Does the Bible allow for the creation of the universe and earth billions of years ago? Why do some believe they are no older than 6,000 years old? What is the gap theory? Where the days of creation in Genesis 1:3 through 2:3 24 hours long?
Where Did God Come From? Any ideas? And how has God been able to exist? Who is God?
How Old is the Earth and How Long Were the Days of Creation? Does the Bible allow for the creation of the universe and earth billions of years ago? Why do some believe they are no older than 6,000 years old? What is the gap theory? Where the days of creation in Genesis 1:3 through 2:3 24 hours long?
How is God Omnipotent, Omnipresent, and Omniscient? Here is a biblical article which answers what many really wonder about it.
Has time been lost? It Saturday the seventh day of the week?
Why Were You Born? Why did God make you? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject. You may also wish to read the article What is Your Destiny? or watch the video, also titled What is Your Destiny?
What is the Meaning of Life? Who does God say is happy? What is your ultimate destiny? Do you really know? Does God actually have a plan for YOU personally? There is also a video titled What is the meaning of your life?

David Cameron

COGwriter

UK Prime Minister David Cameron is warning about the threat from Islamic State terrorists:

Islamic State militants could grow strong enough to target people on the streets of Britain unless action is taken, David Cameron has warned.

The PM, writing in the Sunday telegraph, said a “humanitarian response” to IS was not enough and a “firm security response” was needed.

It comes as Church leaders expressed concern that the UK had no “coherent” approach to tackling Islamic extremism.

IS has seized large parts of northern Iraq and Syria over the summer…

Mr Cameron said: “True security will only be achieved if we use all our resources – aid, diplomacy, our military prowess – to help bring about a more stable world.

“If we do not act to stem the onslaught of this exceptionally dangerous terrorist movement, it will only grow stronger until it can target us on the streets of Britain.”

He warned that if IS was able to “carve out its so-called caliphate”, the UK would be “facing a terrorist state on the shores of the Mediterranean and bordering a Nato member”. …

The UK has made aid drops to people stranded in northern Iraq but the prime minister warned a “broader political, diplomatic and security response” was needed, in addition to humanitarian action.

“We need a firm security response, whether that is military action to go after the terrorists, international co-operation on intelligence and counter-terrorism or uncompromising action against terrorists at home,” he wrote.

The prime minister suggested that anyone walking around in the UK with an Islamic state flag should be arrested.  http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-28823281