Archive for December, 2025

Is Iran on the brink of collapse or war?

Wednesday, December 31st, 2025


2018 Iranian protests via Wikipedia

COGwriter

Deutsche Welle reported the following:

Iran on the brink? Key information about the protests

31 December 2025

Thousands of people have protested in Iran in recent days against the dramatic devaluation of the currency, amid an economic crisis that has engulfed the country.

What began as a strike by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants on Sunday has become an outcry of political anger, with some even chanting “Death to the dictator!” The spontaneous protests have already spread from Tehran to other cities, such as Isfahan and Mashhad. …

the monthly wages of an average Iranian in full-time work are now only worth slightly more than $100 (€85).

Basic food supplies can easily consume an entire monthly income. In a heavily import-dependent country like Iran, … this has had immediate, destabilizing social consequences.

Gissou Nia, a human rights lawyer and Iran expert from the Atlantic Council think tank, sees the economic crash as the catalyst for the protests, but not as its core issue. “As with the protests since December 2017, there’s often an economic catalyst,” she told DW. “But if we listen to the slogans, and the extent of the protests, it’s about profound dissatisfaction with the Iranian regime and the desire for that regime to disappear.”

It appears many Iranians no longer see the country’s economic collapse as a crisis that can be rectified, but as a systemic failure of the regime of aged revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. …

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has little political leeway for making concessions to the demonstrators. In a moment of unusual openness, he recently admitted, “If the problems aren’t solved, we cannot govern.” Some argue that this is tantamount to a declaration of political bankruptcy.

The government’s draft budget for 2026 envisages tax rises of 62%, with inflation at 50%, which many on the street see as straightforward robbery. https://www.dw.com/en/iran-on-the-brink-key-information-about-the-protests/a-75346485

Civil unrest is not the answer for Iran, the Kingdom of God is.

But that is not the focus of the protesters nor the government there.

Protests and civil unrest in Iran are not unexpected.

Back in March 2012, I posted the following here:

I have tended to feel that Iran will be somehow neutralized by either a regional war and/or internal political unrest. (Thiel B. Obama says, ‘I don’t bluff’ and hints of attacking Iran. COGwriter.com, March 2, 2012)

The situation in Iran will change.

Notice also the following:

Netanyahu raised possible “round 2” strikes on Iran with Trump

December 31, 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the possibility of attacking Iran again in 2026 during his meeting with President Trump on Monday, according to a U.S. official and two additional U.S. sources familiar with the details of the meeting.

Why it matters: Another war with Iran could further destabilize a region that’s seeking stability after two years of crises. …

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in response to the threats from Trump and Netanyahu that Iran would give a “harsh” response to any acts of aggression.

Some U.S. and Israeli officials think the likeliest spark for an Israel-Iran war in the near-term is miscalculation — with one side trying to preempt a suspected attack by the other.

It may well be that to deal with the protests and threats from Israel, Iran may well decide it needs to attack Israel.

Because of biblical prophecies (cf. Isaiah 22:6-9), for years, I have warned that we could see a major regional war involving Iran, parts of Syria, and Israel. We may be getting closer to that happening.

Consider the following prophecy:

34 The word of the Lord that came to Jeremiah the prophet against Elam, in the beginning of the reign of Zedekiah king of Judah, saying, 35 “Thus says the Lord of hosts:

‘Behold, I will break the bow of Elam,
The foremost of their might.
36 Against Elam I will bring the four winds
From the four quarters of heaven,
And scatter them toward all those winds;
There shall be no nations where the outcasts of Elam will not go.
37 For I will cause Elam to be dismayed before their enemies
And before those who seek their life.
I will bring disaster upon them,
My fierce anger,’ says the Lord;
‘And I will send the sword after them
Until I have consumed them.
38 I will set My throne in Elam,
And will destroy from there the king and the princes,’ says the Lord.

39 ‘But it shall come to pass in the latter days:
I will bring back the captives of Elam,’ says the Lord.” (Jeremiah 49:34-39)

Elam seems to be a reference to at least some in Iran. Some believe Kir is an area in the south of Iran, while others suggest closer to the Black Sea. The Bible tells of a time when Kir will be destroyed (Isaiah 15:1b) and also says that Syria’s capital Damascus will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1).

Here is something from my free eBook Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?:

Iran and Prophecy

Prior to his first election, Donald Trump stated that he wants to eliminate or at least change the “nuclear deal” with Iran. [i]

And that he did.[ii]

However, the Biden-Harris Administration tried to revive it, though never fully did. However, the Biden-Harris Administration did release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets back to Iran[iii] as well as it, apparently intentionally, did not enforce sanctions which allowed Iran to nearly triple its oil revenues 3 years after Donald Trump left office.[iv]

In the June 27, 2024 debate with Joe Biden, Donald Trump then blamed the Biden-Harris Administration for assisting in Iran’s ability to provide more funding to proxies such as Hamas and Hezbollah.[v] It is believed that Donald Trump will likely use some type of “maximum pressure” strategy again against Iran during his next Administration.[vi]

Because Bible prophecy indicates  that it  will  be  primarily Arabic nations that support the final King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:1-8), though with some support (probably temporary per Daniel 11:25-26) from Turkey (and possibly Pakistan), it is not biblically possible that Iran can truly be the leader of the Islamic world as it seems to want to be. Also, because it is basically due east of Jerusalem, Iran should not be considered to be a candidate to be the final ‘King of the South’ of biblical prophecy.

Despite its posturing and relative military strength, Iran will be somehow effectively neutralized (cf. Ezekiel 32:24). This could perhaps be from an attack involving Israel and/or internal civil unrest — this could also include electromagnetic (EMP) or similar weapons used against Iran (Jeremiah 49:34-39).

It is of prophetic interest to note that the small nation of Israel is prophesied to one day be attacked by some that seem to have a connection to Iran (Isaiah 22:1-14).

Iran may decide to strike out against Israel, and possibly Jerusalem (cf. Isaiah 22:7-8) if a Trump Administration and/or Israel takes actions it does not like.

Iran has weapons that can cause damage. Furthermore, the USA itself (as well as is the State of Israel) is vulnerable to EMP type attacks and items such as biological weapons, chemical weapons, terrorism, nuclear weapons, dirty bombs, etc. because of a conflict involving Iran, Syria, and/or others.

But should this occur, this would NOT be the final destruction of the USA. Prophetically, Iran would not end up faring well (cf. Ezekiel 32:24-25).

[i] Wilkinson T. Trump’s plans to scuttle or amend the Iran nuclear deal remain a work in progress. Los Angeles Times, November 14, 2016

[ii] Trump DJ. President Donald J. Trump is Ending United States Participation in an Unacceptable Iran Deal. White House Fact Sheet, May 8, 2018

[iii] Knickmeyer E, et al. Americans released by Iran arrive home, tearfully embrace their loved ones and declare: ‘Freedom!’ Associated Press, September 19, 2023

[iv] Steil B. Biden is Giving Up Powerful U.S. Financial Sanctions on Iran | Opinion. Newsweek, August 13, 2021; Cohen A. Joe Biden’s Iran Oil Sanctions Failure. National Interest, November 2, 2024

[v] READ: Biden-Trump debate transcript. CNN, June 28, 2024

[vi] What is Trump’s ‘maximum pressure policy’ that could drive up costs for China’s Iranian oil imports? Times of India, November 6, 2024; Strobel WP, et al. Trump to Renew ‘Maximum Pressure’ Campaign Against Iran. Wall Stree Journal, November 8, 2024

While the current protests are not yet the end of Iran, we are getting closer to the time when Iran will be neutralized in accordance with what is and is not directly prophesied about it in the Bible.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

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 are also two related videos: Iran In Prophecy and Iran and Israel Conflict.

Islamic and Biblical Prophecies for the 21st Century This is a free online book which helps show where biblical and Islamic prophecies converge and diverge. Here are links to related sermons: Seeing Christianity Through Islamic Eyes, Imam Mahdi, women, and prophecy, and Terrorism, Iran, and Fatima, Dajjal, Antichrist, Gold, & Mark of the Beast?, and Jesus and God’s Plan for Muslims. Here is a link to a sermon in the Spanish language: El Imám Mahdi las mujeres y la profecía bíblica. Here is a link to the book in Spanish: Profecías islámicas y bíblicas para el Siglo 21°.

Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?  Is Donald Trump going to save the USA or are there going to be many disastrous unintended consequences of his statements and policies? What will happen? This is a free eBook.

When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2026, 2027, or 2028? 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? A short video is available titled: Countdown to the Great Tribulation.

US dollar claimed to be the weakest major currency in 2025–will there be an end to US dollar dominance?

Wednesday, December 31st, 2025


(Pixabay photo)

COGwriter

Despite certain assertions by the Trump Administration (as well as the previous Biden Administration), respect and the value of the US dollar has been dropping, at least according to the currency markets:

Dollar on course for biggest drop in almost a decade

31 December 2025

Russian rouble crowned 2025’s best-performing currency … https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2025/12/31/dollar-on-course-for-biggest-drop-in-almost-a-decade/

Before going further, notice the following related to the rouble and Joe Biden:

Russia’s Ruble Rebound Raises Questions of Sanctions’ Impact

March 31, 2022

The ruble is no longer rubble. …

President Joe Biden promoted the success of the sanctions — some of the toughest ever imposed on a nation — while he was in Poland last week. “The ruble almost is immediately reduced to rubble,” Biden said.

https://www.voanews.com/a/russia-s-ruble-rebound-raises-questions-of-sanctions-impact-/6509012.html

Joe Biden was wrong about his sanctions destroying the value of the Russian rouble.

Now, here is more about the US dollar in 2025:

Dollar on track for steepest annual drop for almost a decade

30 December 2025

The US dollar is heading for its steepest annual drop since 2017, with Wall Street banks predicting further weakness next year as the Federal Reserve presses ahead with interest rate cuts. The greenback has slumped 9.5 per cent against a basket of major currencies this year, after US President Donald Trump’s trade war sparked fears for the world’s biggest economy and cast doubt over the dollar’s traditional status as a haven for investors. The euro has had the biggest gain of the major currencies against the faltering dollar, surging nearly 14 per cent to above $1.17, a level last reached in 2021.

While the dollar’s initial weakness was triggered by Trump’s launch of aggressive tariffs against the US’s trading partners in April — it was at one point down 15 per cent against major currencies before regaining some ground — the Fed’s resumption of rate cuts in September has kept it under pressure. https://www.ft.com/content/1712a946-5861-444e-9740-d488c865c5cf

The dollar has been the weakest major currency in 2025. …

The US dollar has declined against all of its main global peers in 2025, and the Dollar Index — which measures the greenback against a basket of foreign currencies — is down 10% this year. 12/29/25 https://www.businessinsider.com/weak-us-dollar-usd-decline-impact-on-americans-inflation-2025-12

Last month, ZeroHedge posted the following:

Currency Regime Change: Is Dollar Dominance Dead?

November 29, 2025

The sages who studied the rise and fall of kingdoms would chuckle today, for the lesson is ancient: money is the hard-earned fruit of labor, while currency is merely the paper promise that it still tastes good. Money—like gold and silver—is the crystallized effort of real work and real scarcity. Currency, however, is its excitable younger cousin: useful for trade, but spoiled the moment rulers discover the printing pressMoney is the idea; currency is the performance. One endures through dynasties, the other ages like milk whenever governments “manage” it too enthusiastically. As Master Kong might say: “He who thinks he is saving money, but saves only currency, will one day learn the difference the hard way.” In short, money keeps its virtue; currency keeps asking us to believe it still has some. …

The United States holds only 5% of the world’s people, yet somehow manages to inhale 25% of the world’s consumption. As the Master might say, “When one household eats like five, the neighbors will surely notice.” Americans burn through a quarter of global oil, nearly a third of the world’s aluminum, almost a quarter of all coal, and a healthy share of copper. No wonder nations line up at America’s gate, eager to trade—who wouldn’t serve a customer with such an appetite? Europe, though more populous, spends with the restraint of a scholar-official counting his brushstrokes. The EU’s collective consumer spending reached $9.6 trillion in 2023, which works out to about $21,300 per person—falling further in 2024. Meanwhile, the average American spends roughly $51,500, proving that while Europeans may savor life, Americans certainly buy it. …

Germany’s lingering fear of inflation keeps taxes high and spending cautious, a habit born from World War I scars. https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2025-11-29/currency-regime-change-dollar-dominance-dead

The Economist posted the following:

The dollar’s dominance is being challenged more and more

12 November 2025

For developing countries, a weaker greenback is usually good news. Poor-country governments borrow more in dollars than rich ones, so their debt bills get slashed. In the first six months of 2025, the dollar’s value fell by about 10% against other rich-world currencies. But this time things were different. Most politicians in poor countries were aghast. https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2025/11/12/the-dollars-dominance-is-being-challenged-more-and-more

Yes, the USA dollar is being more and more bypassed (e.g. see India and European Union linking up to bypass US dollar and SWIFT) and more are looking at another currency, like the Euro, as the USA dollar’s replacement

Consider the following:

  • The Euro is up 13-14% this year compared to the USA dollar, hence more are seeing it as a better alternative.
  • US debt policies are weakening the value of the USA dollar.
  • Trump Administration sanction, tariff, and trade policies are turning nations away from the USA dollar.
  • The BRICS group was partially formed to bypass the USA dollar.
  • With 41 nations in SEPA, the tide is turning towards the Euro.
  • The rise of Europe as the end time Babylonian trade power is prophesied in the Bible.
  • This will not and well for the USA or its dollar.

Could the euro replace the dollar?

Related to that, the Continuing Church of God put together the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel:

14:55

Euro vs Dollar: And the winner is?

In October 2025, the European Payments Council of the European Union announced that four more nations were entering into Single Euro Payments Area, also known as SEPA. This brings the total to 41 nations, representing 550 million people that are in SEPA. SEPA does not cover payments in currencies other than the euro, hence this is a euro promoting group. In 2025, the euro has gained 12-13% vs. the US dollar which has declined. Factors such as US financial policies, tariffs, debt, Donald Trump, and threats have been cited as factors. While the euro can drop in value, many are wondering if the euro will replace the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency? Bloomberg has asserted, “There Is an Alternative to the Dollar — It’s the Euro.” IN addition to SEPA, nations in the BRICS+ alliance are also pushing to reduce, and eliminate, the use of the US dollar in cross-border trade–BRICS+ represents 4.45 billion people–between BRICS+ and SEPA, that is about a total of 5 billion people or 62.4% of the world’s population, that are in organizations that are working to reduce use of the US dollar. Plus there are other nations such as Iran, Venezuela, and North Korea, who want to do that as well. Back in 1971, the old ‘Plain Truth’ magazine warned, “A ‘United States of Europe’ possessing one single currency – a currency so strong that it will replace the U. S. dollar as the kingpin currency of world trade.” Europe did come up with its own currency and we are seeing it increasingly used for cross-border trade. The massively negative impact on the US economy for its dollar to be dethroned as the world’s primary reserve and trading currency would be real. Does this align with biblical prophecies? Dr. Thiel, himself, warned in December 2024, that in 2025, “US Dollar Dominance will Decrease,” and it has. In this video, Steve Dupuie and Dr. Thiel discuss these matters as well possibly when the US dollar may be dethroned and that a European currency, with some type of at least implied gold backing, may replace it.

Here is a link to our video: Euro vs Dollar: And the winner is?

The BBC reported the following this past Summer:

US debt is now $37trn – should we be worried? …

5 July 2025

Trump’s tax-cutting budget bill is expected to add at least $3 trillion (£2.2 trillion) to the US’s already eye-watering $37tn (£27tn) debt pile. There is no shortage of critics of the plan, not least Trump’s former ally Elon Musk, who has called it a “disgusting abomination”.

The growing debt pile leaves some to wonder whether there is a limit to how much the rest of the world will lend Uncle Sam.

Those doubts have been showing up recently in the weaker value of the dollar and the higher interest rate investors are demanding to lend money to America. …

So what might that trauma look like?

The first option is a drastic reduction in government spending, a big increase in taxes or both.

Ray Dalio suggests that cutting the budget deficit from its current 6% to 3% soon could head off trouble in the future.

Trump’s new budget bill did cut some spending, but it also cut taxes more, and so the current political trajectory is going the other way.

Secondly, as in previous crises, the US central bank could print more money and use it to buy up government debt – as we saw after the great financial crisis of 2008.

But that can end up fuelling inflation and inequality as the owners of assets like houses and shares do much better than those who rely on the value of labour.

The third is a straightforward US default. Can’t pay won’t pay. Given that the “full faith and credit of the US Treasury” underpins the entire global financial system, that would make the great financial crisis look like a picnic.

‘Cleanest dirty shirt’

So how likely is any of this?

Right now, mercifully, not very.

But the reasons why are not actually that comforting. The fact is, whether we like it or not, the world has few alternatives to the dollar.

Economist and former bond supremo Mohamed El-Erian told the BBC that many are trying to reduce dollar holdings, “the dollar is overweight and the world knows it, which is why we have seen a rise in gold, the euro and the pound, but it’s hard to move at scale so there’s really very few places to go”.

“The dollar is like your cleanest dirty shirt, you have to keep wearing it.”

Nevertheless, the future of the dollar and the world’s benchmark asset – US government bonds – is being discussed at the highest levels.

The governor of the Bank of England recently told the BBC that the levels of US debt and the status of the dollar is “very much on [US Treasury] Secretary Bessent’s mind. I don’t think the dollar is fundamentally under threat at the moment but he is very aware of these issues and I don’t think it is something that he underestimates.”

Debt of $37tn is an unfathomable number. If you saved a million dollars every day, it would take you 100,000 years to save up that much. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1lj8rmyn5eo

Despite many believing that the US dollar is the “cleanest dirty shirt,” its value against many currencies, including the euro, has dropped this year.

The official debt of the US has risen by over $2 trillion since Donald Trump again became president of the US:

January 17, 2025 $36,206,593,315,575.15 https://fiscaldata.treasury.gov/datasets/debt-to-the-penny/debt-to-the-penny last business date of Biden-Harris replaced when Trump-Vance inaugerated

December 29, 2025 $38,386,384,190,622.68 https://fiscaldata.treasury.gov/datasets/debt-to-the-penny/debt-to-the-penny

Now, consider a story, I have reported here before:

There once was a movie that had two men camping outdoors. Suddenly, one man yells, “Run, a bear!” The other man yells back, “You can’t outrun a bear.” The first man responded with, “True, but all I have to do is to outrun you.”

The implication is that the first man only needed to be a better runner than the second man, which presumably the bear would consider to be weaker, and then catch and destroy. This would, supposedly, allow the first man to survive.

From an economic perspective, the story basically is that the debt and economic situation in Europe does not need to be perfect, only perceived to better (or at least similar) than that of the USA to someday surpass it. The euro may become perceived as the “cleanest dirty shirt,” especially since I believe it will also have at least implied backing by gold.

While the Bible shows that gold and silver will one day be considered worse than useless (cf. Ezekiel 7: 19), it also shows that it will have value after the USA is defeated (cf. Daniel 11:39-43).

That being said, yes the USA dollar will collapse one day–and some type of European-backed currency, possibly the Euro or perhaps some type of international basket of currencies will replace the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency.

Here is something from my feee eBook book Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?:

It may be of interest to note that back in the 1970s Europe was looking for a gold-backed currency.[i] European central banks have, overall (there have been sales too by the European central banks), been accumulating gold since, and some in 2024 believe that the Europeans are still planning on having some type of gold-backing (or at least implied) of a European currency.[ii]

Since many are now questioning the role of the USA dollar as the world’s reserve currency, more are looking into other currencies as well as gold.

Gold will set records in U.S. dollar terms.

In 2017, I also published that last statement in my book related to Donald Trump, and it did hit records in July and August in 2020. [iii] Now, despite having ups and downs, as well as records hit in 2024, gold will set further records in U.S. dollar terms in the relatively near future.

It has been asserted that:

The only replacement for fiat {currency} is a currency credibly backed by gold.[iv]

Although the above can be debated, the reality is after the elimination of the USA and the crash of its dollar, the world will want something more stable than unbacked currency. Thus, it is likely that some type of gold-backed currency will emerge as the preferred reserve currency in the world.

It has long been reported that various nations around the world are already in the process of accumulating gold to one day overthrow the U.S. dollar—and that the “U.S. is unprepared for this strategic alternative to dollar dominance.”[v] Various steps were also taken in 2022 and 2024.[vi]

When the U.S. dollar totally collapses people all around the world will consider that even if the euro (or something similar) is strong, having a more gold-backed currency would be safer.

The collapse of the USA dollar will shake a lot of the world’s confidence in non-gold backed currencies. The Europeans do not have to have a perfect currency, only one that is perceived to be in better shape than the USA dollar or various other currencies.

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

The debt accumulation policies of the Obama-Biden and the Trump-Pence Administrations, which were a massive acceleration of the previous policies of the Bush Administration, have to a large degree been continued and expanded by the Biden-Harris Administration.

The increases in America’s debt are heading the world into the time when something other than the U.S. dollar will be valued as its reserve currency.

A Trump-Vance Administration would need to make massive changes to possibly prevent this.

The USA and its dollar are at serious risk.

The increases in America’s debt are leading the world into the time when something other than the U.S. dollar will be valued as its reserve currency.

The USA and its dollar are at serious risk.

[i] Nieuwenhuijs J. Europe Has Been Preparing A Global Gold Standard Since The 1970s. SeekingAlpha.com, July 16, 2020

[ii] Nieuwenhuijs J. Europe Is Finalizing Preparations for a Gold Standard. ActivistPost.com, November 9, 2024

[iii] Gold hits new record, posts best month since 2016 CNBC, July 30, 2020; Woodall T. Gold surges to new highs as US dollar weakens despite growing macro risks. S&P Global, August 10, 2020

[iv] MacLeod A. Designing a new currency is impractical. Goldmoney Insights, March 24, 2022

[v] Rickards J. Axis of Gold. The Daily Reckoning, December 20, 2016

[vi] Guistra F. Why the U.S. dollar will be replaced as the dominant global currency — sooner than you think. Toronto Star, July 5, 2022; Bezek I, Duggan W. De-Dollarization: What Would Happen if the Dollar Lost Reserve Currency Status? US News & World Report, November 2024

The US dollar will one day be worth no more than its scrap or burning value, other than perhaps as a collector’s novelty.

As far as gold as a partial replacement for the US dollar, the Continuing Church of God (CCOG) put out the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel:

12:30

China introduced something that was called the gold-petro-yuan back in 2018. Since then, the global share of US-dollar-dominated exchange reserves have dropped to 59.0%. In April 2021, China became the first major economy to unleash a Central Bank Digital Currency. China also has given its banks permission to import large amounts of gold. Is China preparing for a gold-backed yuan to push aside the US dollar or to help it survive a US dollar cataclysm? Are other nations preparing to push the US dollar aside? Do Europeans seem to have the most gold? Are Europeans prophesied to gain more gold? Is the US debt trajectory sustainable per Fed Chairman Jerome Powell? Does the Bible warn of the end coming to the highly indebted in Habakkuk 2:6-8? Why does it looked like a gold-backed currency will replace the US dollar? Will the US dollar, ultimately, become essentially worthless? Dr Thiel addresses these issues and more.

Here is a link to our video: Gold Backed Currency to Replace the US Dollar?

The US dollar will collapse a few years before Jesus returns.

If you think that the USA and its dollar will continue to be number 1 and claim to believe the Bible, please consider biblical prophecies such as Daniel 11:39; Habakkuk 2:6-8; Isaiah 10:5-11 (see also USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses and/or watch Do these 7 prophesies point to the end of the USA?).

Hopefully, you are taking the proper spiritual steps now, whether or not you might be American.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The End of US Dollar Dominance Is the USA losing its economic status? What about the petro-gold-yuan? A related video is also available: US Dollar being challenged by Gold-Petro-Yuan.
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 and silver? Two videos of related interest may be: Germany, Gold, and the US Dollar and Silver, Science, and Scripture.
HABAKKUK Here is a link to the article Commentary on Habakkuk and the End of the United States. God gave Habakkuk a message on living by faith. Did God give a prophecy concerning debt and the destruction of the United States?
Donald Trump in Prophecy Prophecy, Donald Trump? Are there prophecies that Donald Trump may fulfill?  Are there any prophecies that he has already helped fulfill?  Is a Donald Trump presidency proving to be apocalyptic?  Three related videos are available: Donald: ‘Trump of God’ or Apocalyptic? and Donald Trump’s Prophetic Presidency and  Donald Trump and Unintended Consequences.
Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?  Is Donald Trump going to save the USA or are there going to be many disastrous unintended consequences of his statements and policies? What will happen? This is a free eBook.

 

Pagan Connections to the Roman New Years’ Observances

Wednesday, December 31st, 2025


Roman God Janus in Vatican Museum

COGwriter

Does God begin His new year on January 1st? If not, what is the origin of January 1st and New Year’s?

Back in 46 B.C., Julius Caesar declared that January 1st would mark the beginning of the new year. January was named after Janus, the god of gates and doors in Roman mythology. People prayed to Janus when they wanted something new in their lives (such as resolutions). Janus is normally represented with two faces, one looking to the past and the other looking to the future (the two faces also signified change that Janus would supposedly bring in, see Burchett B, Janus in Roman life and cult: a study in Roman religions, p. 15). The first day of the month of January was sacred to him.

January first is Julius Caesar’s and Janus’ New year.

It did not come from the Bible.

What About Resolutions?

Notice what the historian Tertullian wrote about winter celebrations, such as Saturnalia, in the late second century:

The Minervalia are as much Minerva’s, as the Saturnalia Saturn’s; Saturn’s, which must necessarily be celebrated even by little slaves at the time of the Saturnalia. New-year’s gifts likewise must be caught at, and the Septimontium kept; and all the presents of Midwinter and the feast of Dear Kinsmanship must be exacted; the schools must be wreathed with flowers; the flamens’ wives and the aediles sacrifice; the school is honoured on the appointed holy-days. The same thing takes place on an idol’s birthday; every pomp of the devil is frequented. Who will think that these things are befitting to a Christian master, unless it be he who shall think them suitable likewise to one who is not a master? (Tertullian. On Idolatry, Chapter X. Translated by S. Thelwall. Excerpted from Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 3. Edited by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. American Edition, 1885. Online Edition Copyright © 2004 by K. Knight).

But, however, the majority (of Christians) have by this time induced the belief in their mind that it is pardonable if at any time they do what the heathen do, for fear “the Name be blasphemed”…To live with heathens is lawful, to die with them is not. Let us live with all; let us be glad with them, out of community of nature, not of superstition. We are peers in soul, not in discipline; fellow-possessors of the world, not of error. But if we have no right of communion in matters of this kind with strangers, how far more wicked to celebrate them among brethren! Who can maintain or defend this?…By us,…the Saturnalia and New-year’s and Midwinter’s festivals and Matronalia are frequented–presents come and go–New-year’s gifts–games join their noise–banquets join their din! Oh better fidelity of the nations to their own sect, which claims no solemnity of the Christians for itself!…Not the Lord’s day, not Pentecost, even if they had known them, would they have shared with us; for they would fear lest they should seem to be Christians. We are not apprehensive lest we seem to be heathens! (Tertullian. On Idolatry, Chapter XIV. Translated by S. Thelwall. Excerpted from Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 3. Edited by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. American Edition, 1885. Online Edition Copyright © 2004 by K. Knight).

But “let your works shine,” saith He; but now all our shops and gates shine! You will now-a-days find more doors of heathens without lamps and laurel-wreaths than of Christians. What does the case seem to be with regard to that species (of ceremony) also? If it is an idol’s honour, without doubt an idol’s honour is idolatry. If it is for a man’s sake, let us again consider that all idolatry is for man’s sake; let us again consider that all idolatry is a worship done to men, since it is generally agreed even among their worshippers that aforetime the gods themselves of the nations were men; and so it makes no difference whether that superstitious homage be rendered to men of a former age or of this. Idolatry is condemned, not on account of the persons which are set up for worship, but on account of those its observances, which pertain to demons (Tertullian. On Idolatry, Chapter XV. Translated by S. Thelwall. Excerpted from Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 3. Edited by Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson. American Edition, 1885. Online Edition Copyright © 2004 by K. Knight).

What Tertullian seems to be saying is that observing New Year’s celebrations make Christians appear to be followers of pagan gods, and since the pagans would not intentionally celebrate days considered by many to be Christian, Christians should not celebrate days that are honored by the heathen. Specifically, he felt that those who profess Christ should not celebrate New Year’s or other pagan days, as even the observance is a form of idolatry. New Year’s was also observed in honor of the goddess Strenua/Strenia, the goddess of purification and well being. It may partially be because of her that New Year’s resolutions and vows are made.

The Bible teaches:

19 What am I saying then? That an idol is anything, or what is offered to idols is anything? 20 Rather, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice they sacrifice to demons and not to God, and I do not want you to have fellowship with demons. (1 Corinthians 10:19-20)

New Year’s clearly has demonic origins.

The Catholic Encyclopedia reports:

Christian writers and councils condemned the heathen orgies and excesses connected with the festival of the Saturnalia, which were celebrated at the beginning of the year: Tertullian blames Christians who regarded the customary presents — called strenae (Fr. étrennes) from the goddess Strenia, who presided over New Year’s Day (cf. Ovid, Fasti, 185-90) — as mere tokens of friendly intercourse (De Idol. xiv), and towards the end of the sixth century the Council of Auxerre (can. I) forbade Christians strenas diabolicas observare. The II Council of Tours held in 567 (can. 17) prescribes prayers and a Mass of expiation for New Year’s Day, adding that this is a practice long in use (patres nostri statuerunt). Dances were forbidden, and pagan crimes were to be expiated by Christian fasts (St. Augustine, Serm., cxcvii-viii in P.L., XXXVIII, 1024; Isidore of Seville, De Div. Off. Eccl., I, xli; Trullan Council, 692, can. lxii). (Tierney, John. “New Year’s Day.” The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 11. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1911. 27 Dec. 2011 <http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/11019a.htm>)

The expression strenas diabolicas observare roughly translates from Latin to “observing the new time of the Devil.” It is likely that New Year’s resolutions are related to the purification and well being attributes of the pagan goddess. So, while a Roman Catholic council forbade the devil’s new year, many nowadays observe it.

Thus although many would be surprised to learn this, the celebration of New Year’s was originally opposed by claimed “Christian writers” according to the Church of Rome. Hence, it definitely should not be considered to be an original apostolic practice or even early tradition for the Catholics of Rome.

The Feast of Circumcision?

New Year’s day did not become a holy day for the Roman Catholic Church until 487 A.D. when it was declared to be the Feast of the Circumcision (though it may have been also observed in the fourth century, but other sources suggest eighth century or later dates):

Our “New- Year’s Day, “the “Feast of the Circumcision,” was called the octave of Christmas as early as 487, AD, and was instituted by the Church to commemorate the ceremony of the Jewish law which the Saviour submitted. In the time of Numa the old Roman heathens dedicated the day to Janus, the double-faced deity…(Savage J., editor. The Manhattan and de la Salle monthly. New York Catholic Protectory, 1875 Original from the New York Public Library Digitized Jul 13, 2006, p. 2)

The Feast of the Circumcision has been observed in the Roman church since 487 and in the Anglican church since 1549. (Douglas GW, Compton HD. The American book of days: a compendium of information about holidays, festivals, notable anniversaries and Christian and Jewish holy days, with notes on other American anniversaries worthy of remembrance. H. W. Wilson Co., 1957 Original from the University of California Digitized Sep 25, 2008, p. 2)

This gave the Greco-Roman Catholic, as well as Anglican, churches an eight-day festival with a ‘holy day’ at the beginning and the end, similar in that respect to the Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:34-35). It was determined that if Jesus was born on December 25th (even though he could not have been), since he was circumcised eight days later (Luke 2:21), he would have been circumcised on January 1st, hence the rationale for New Year’s being ‘the Feast of the Circumcision.’

It should be added that there is no indication in the Bible that Jesus’ circumcision should be celebrated.

What Happens?

So, how is New Year’s celebrated? Well customs do vary around the world. Various cultures believe that meeting with people, eating certain foods, or consuming certain drinks will help insure good luck for the year.

In the 1700s, notice a poem that was written to and about Janus from The poetical works of Jonathan Swift, Volumes 2-3, By Jonathan Swift, John Mitford, p. 120:

TO JANUS, ON NEW YEAR’S DAY, 1726.’

Two-faced Janus, god of Time!
Be my Phoebus while I rhyme;
To oblige your crony Swift,
Bring our dame a new year’s gift;
She has got but half a face;
Janus, since thou hast a brace,
To my lady once be kind;
Give her half thy face behind.

God of Time, if you be wise,
Look not with your future eyes;
What imports thy forward sight?
Well, if you could lose it quite.
Can you take delight in viewing
This poor Isle’s 2 approaching ruin,
When thy retrospection vast
Sees the glorious ages past?
Happy nation were we blind,
Or had only eyes behind!

So, some consider Janus to be the “God of Time”–but no real Christian would.

It seems, though, that Janus could have been mainly a side issue for the year to start then:

The connection between Janus and the ceremonies of January first may be still further illustrated by these lines from the Carmina Tria de Mensibus:

Hie Iani mensis sacer est: en aspice ut aris tura micent, sumant ut pia liba Lares. Annorum saeclique caput, natalis honorumpurpureos fastis qui numerat proceres.

which may mean, “This is the sacred month of January—sacred because of the ceremonies. January is the beginning of the year, because the purple-clad chiefs date their office from that month.” Although Janus is used here only as a personification of his month, yet some sanctity is reflected to the god himself from the ceremonies of the day. From the lines just quoted, it seems evident that Fastorum genitor parensque* means only, “Janus, i. e. January, is the beginning of the year, a fact to be emphasized by patriotic Romans, because the consuls assumed, or renewed, office on January first.” (Janus in Roman life and cult: a study in Roman religions … By Bessie Rebecca Burchett, p. 15)

In the US and many other Western cultures, vows called New Year’s resolutions are often made. From this authors research, while repentance is a good thing, he believes that this custom of resolutions is similar to the prayers made to Janus regarding desiring something new. According to most available research, most people break their New Year’s resolutions. Hopefully they are not making them before the true God whose word says, “When you make a vow to God, do not delay to pay it; for He has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you have vowed–Better not to vow than to vow and not pay. Do not let your mouth cause your flesh to sin, nor say before the messenger of God that it was an error. Why should God be angry at your excuse and destroy the work of your hands?” (Ecclesiastes 5:4-6).

Another activity which occurs in the US and elsewhere on New Year’s is heavy drinking of alcohol. Many who go to New Year’s parties get drunk. Paul warned Christians, “Do not be drunk” (Ephesians 5:18).

Germans Call it Silvester

A reader sent me the following:

Why on earth do Germans call New Year Silvester?

No your friend isn’t planning to ring in the New Year with someone named Sylvester instead of you. Silvester is the German name for New Year’s Eve – owing to the fourth century Pope Sylvester I. Eventually made a saint by the Catholic Church, his feast day is observed on December 31.

St. Sylvester’s day became associated with New Year’s Eve with the reform of the Gregorian calendar in 1582, when the last day of the year was fixed at December 31. But despite the holiday’s Christian name, many German New Year’s traditions can be traced back to the pagan Rauhnächte practices of heathen Germanic tribes, which took place at the end of December and beginning of January.

Instead of recognizing a single day as the winter solstice, the Germanic tribes observed twelve Rauhnächte – hairy nights, so called due to the furry forms of the deep winter demons – or Rauchnächte – smoky nights, due to the practice of smoking the spirits out of one’s house on January 5. …

As in many other countries, the Germans celebrate Silvester with fireworks, champagne, and boisterous social gatherings. Making noise is key: the ruckus of fireworks, firecrackers, drums, whip-cracking and banging kitchen utensils has been driving away evil winter spirits since the days of the Germanic Teutons. One of the most famous German firework displays takes place at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. Private celebrations with Böllern (firecrackers) are also common. …

The Rauhnächte were also a time when the future for the New Year could be divined. Silvester in Germany still calls for oracle traditions, which often take the form of party games. Bleigießen (lead pouring) is the most popular Silvester fortune-telling tradition. Party-goers melt small lead forms with a candle in an old spoon and pour them into cold water. The lead hardens into a shape that supposedly bears a certain meaning for the New Year. An eagle, for example, indicates career success, while a flower foretells that new friendships will develop. …

For those who go out on Silvester, good luck charms and New Year’s greetings are often exchanged. Acquaintances may give good luck charms to each other in the form of ladybugs, four-leaf clovers, horseshoes and pigs. The phrase Guten Rutsch! is another common Silvester greeting. While many Germans now use it to wish someone a good “slide” into the new year, the word Rutsch more likely comes from the Yiddish word Rosch – which means beginning or head. https://www.thelocal.de/20161230/16425

Anyway, this is NOT a Christian holiday.

God’s New Year Begins in the Spring

Is January 1st the beginning of the New Year God declared?

No.

When speaking of the Hebrew month of Abib, which occurs around late March/early April God declared,

“This month shall be your beginning of months; it shall be the first month of the year to you” (Exodus 12:2).

January 1st is not the beginning of the year for the true God, but only of certain false gods. The last biblical new year actually began at sunset April 1, 2022 (and yes, being called an ‘April fool’ is related to those who stuck with a Spring-time beginning of the new year). In 2024, it begins at sunset on the 8th of April.

Now perhaps it should be mentioned that other cultures also accept that the new year begins in the Spring. And while those cultures have various non-biblical practices, it is certainly possible that because God’s year begins in the Spring that perhaps anciently these people were aware of it, and retained the correct season, but not the practices.

Not all have followed the practices of Julius Caesar (called “Julie” below):

For some thousands of years before Julie and the Roman Senate got involved, the new year was celebrated with the first edible crops of the season or the first new moon.

In much of India, Nava Varsha is celebrated in March or April, just as in the most ancient civilizations.

Sikhs celebrate Hola Mohalla in March; ditto for Persian Nowruz.

As celebrated in China and southeast Asia, Lunar New Year still has a floating date, the first day of the first lunar month. (Shore R. Pagan Party: New Year’s traditions that hail from the depths of antiquity The Vancouver Sun, Canada – Dec 26, 2008, http://www.vancouversun.com/Pagan+Party+Year+traditions+that+hail+from+depths+antiquity/1116320/story.html viewed 01/22/09)

From a biblical perspective, the new year begins in the Spring, and hence not January 1st. And it also begins with a new moon. The fact that even many non-Christian cultures realize that should make it easier for Christians to realize that they too, do not need to heed the later practices of the Romans.

The Continuing Church of God has the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel:


15:10

Pagan New Year’s Connections?

Many people around the world celebrate December 31st as New Year’s eve with drinking parties and resolutions lasting into the 1st of January. What is the connection between January 1st and New Year’s Day? Was January 1st sacred to the pagan god Janus? Were New Year’s celebrations condemned for Christian use by the historian Tertullian? Was not New Year’s Day supposedly presided over by the pagan goddess Strenua to whom pagans made resolutions to? Did not the late 6th century Council of Auxerre issue the statement, strenas diabolicas observare, meaning “observing the new time of the devil”? Did the Apostle Paul condemn mixing pagan practices with Christian ones as demonic? When was the ‘feast of the circumcision’ implemented and why was January 1st chosen? What about Pope Sylvester I and December 31st? What does the Bible teach about drunken revelries? Were aspects of New Year’s condemned by Roman Catholic leaders? Where in the Bible does God say the new year is to begin?

Here is a link to our video: Pagan New Year’s Connections?

Some items of related interest may include:

Is January 1st a Date for Christians Celebrate? Historical and biblical answers to this question about the world’s New Year’s day. A video of related interest is also available: God’s or Satan’s New Year?
Canadian & Philadelphian Mummers Parades: Another tie to Saturnalia In Canada there is a ’12 days of Christmas’ celebration involving Mummers. In Philadelphia, a parade is held on New Years. Does this come from the Bible or where?
Should You Observe God’s Holy Days or Demonic Holidays? This is a free pdf booklet explaining what the Bible and history shows about God’s Holy Days and popular holidays.
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 There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days of the Bible mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.
The Ten Commandments: The Decalogue, Christianity, and the Beast This is a free draft/unedited pdf book explaining the what the Ten Commandments are, where they came from, how early professors of Christ viewed them, and how various ones, including the Beast of Revelation, will oppose them. A related sermon is titled: The Ten Commandments and the Beast of Revelation.
Mardi Gras: The Devil’s Carnival? Is Mardi Gras Christian? Do you know that in Bolivia the carnival/Mardi Gras time is part of a celebration known as the Devil’s Carnival? Where did it come from? There is also a related YouTube video Mardi Gras & Carnaval: Are they for Christians?
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?
Alcohol: Blessing or Curse? This is an article from the old Good News magazine that attempts to answer this question.
Binge Drinking, Health, and the Bible Many college students and others overindulge in alcohol. Are there health risks? What does the Bible teach? A related video is also available: Binge Drinking and the Bible.
Obesity, processed foods, health risks, and the Bible Does the Bible warn about the consequences of being obese? Is overeating dangerous? Is gluttony condemned? What diseases are associated with eating too much refined foods? A related video would be Eating Right, Eating Too Much, and Prophecy.
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?
Where is the True Christian Church Today? This free online pdf booklet answers that question and includes 18 proofs, clues, and signs to identify the true vs. false Christian church. Plus 7 proofs, clues, and signs to help identify Laodicean churches. A related sermon is also available: Where is the True Christian Church? Here is a link to the booklet in the Spanish language: ¿Dónde está la verdadera Iglesia cristiana de hoy? Here is a link in the German language: WO IST DIE WAHRE CHRISTLICHE KIRCHE HEUTE? Here is a link in the French language: Où est la vraie Église Chrétienne aujourd’hui?
Continuing History of the Church of God This pdf booklet is a historical overview of the true Church of God and some of its main opponents from Acts 2 to the 21st century. Related sermon links include Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D. and Continuing History of the Church of God: 4th-16th Centuries and Continuing History of the Church of God: 17th-20th Centuries. The booklet is available in Spanish: Continuación de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios, German: Kontinuierliche Geschichte der Kirche Gottes, French: L Histoire Continue de l Église de Dieu and Ekegusii Omogano Bw’ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete.

Microplastics are not only in foods, but are shed from synthetic clothes and automobile tires

Tuesday, December 30th, 2025


Microplastics found in German river
(Photos from: Wagner et al.: Microplastics in freshwater ecosystems: what we know and what we need to know. In: Environmental Sciences Europe. 26, 2014 via Wikipedia)

COGwriter

We are hearing more and more concerns related to microplastics.

ZeroHedge posted the following:

Where Do Microplastics Come From Anyway?

December 30, 2025

Most people know that plastic pollution is a problem, but microplastics (the tiny fragments shed by everyday products) are much more pervasive than many realize.

Microplastics are defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm.

These particles are found everywhere: in oceans, soil, drinking water, food, and even the air we breathe. Yet, the origins of these particles are often invisible to consumers.

the biggest contributor to microplastics is synthetic textiles, which account for 35% of the total. Tires (28%) and city dust (24%) are also major culprits, followed by road markings (7%) and a grab bag of other sources (6%).

How Do These Microplastics Enter the Environment?

Microplastics enter the environment in two main forms: primary and secondary.

Primary microplastics are released directly into the environment at a microscopic size. These include:

  • Fibers shed from washing synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, or acrylic.
  • Rubber dust worn from car and truck tires during normal use.
  • Fragments in city dust from the abrasion of paints, soles, furniture, and building coatings.
  • Plastic pellets (“nurdles”) lost during plastic manufacturing or shipping.

Secondary microplastics, on the other hand, are formed when larger plastic debris—like bags, bottles, or fishing gear—breaks down over time due to sunlight, wave action, and weathering. These degrade into smaller and smaller pieces, eventually becoming microplastics.

Both types are persistent, pervasive, and increasingly found in even the most remote ecosystems. Research shows that even atmospheric currents can transport microplastic particles across continents and oceans. …

What Can Be Done?

Solutions will require both technological and behavioral changes. For instance, innovations like microfiber filters in washing machines, and the development of alternative materials for tires and textiles, could help reduce the release of particles at the source. https://www.zerohedge.com/medical/where-do-microplastics-come-anyway

Let me add that I first learned about the particle exposure from automobile tires in 1991 when I interviewed the first director of the San Joaquin Unified Air Pollution Control District while I was working on my Ph.D. There are many ways that we are exposed to microplastics.

Now, notice one danger associated with them:

Microplastics in Bloodstream Increase Stroke Risk 4.5-Fold: Study

July 12, 2024

Research shows that microplastics can be found anywhere—including in heart plaque buildup, which significantly increases risk of heart-related adverse events.

The issue of microplastic pollution in the environment is gaining increasing societal attention. Research indicates that once microplastics enter the human body, they can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, or even death. What kind of everyday behaviors raise the risk of ingesting microplastics?

Lin Xiaoxu, a U.S. virology expert with a doctorate in microbiology, explained …

that everyday plastic products release microplastics. Synthetic textiles shed fiber fragments, and worn-out tires produce plastic-containing dust. Even seemingly smooth plastic water bottles can shed microplastics during washing.

In nature, sunlight and ultraviolet radiation continuously degrade plastics into smaller particles. Textiles, hygiene products, bottles, bags, particles emitted from factories, tire dust, fishing nets, and more all contribute to microplastic pollution. Humans and other animals ingest some of these particles, while others accumulate and break down in oceans and soils. Marine organisms like shellfish, small fish, and shrimp, especially those near coastlines, are particularly prone to ingesting microplastics.

Mr. Lin emphasized that the main sources of microplastics are industrial waste and wastewater discharge, which can cause significant environmental damage if not adequately treated. …

Microplastics typically enter the body through food and drink ingestion, while nanoplastics can be inhaled. https://www.sgtreport.com/2024/07/microplastics-in-bloodstream-increase-stroke-risk-4-5-fold-study/

Consider also that simply playing with plastic toys is also considered as a source:

Playing with plastic toy building bricks creates microplastic and nanoplastic pollution

May 21, 2024

It’s one of the most popular and creative toys around, but playing with plastic building bricks could create something much less desirable in households and childcare settings: large amounts of micro- and nanoplastic particles. While it remains unknown whether such plastic particles pose any risk to health, the findings add yet another source of emerging indoor pollutants and the researchers recommend caution to avoid inhaling or swallowing them. …

‘My research interest is in environmental pollutants and remediation and my daughter likes toy building bricks very much,’ says Cheng Fang who led the work at the University of Newcastle in Australia. ‘I play with her and so I wondered if there might be some concerns from an emerging contamination point of view.’

To find out, Cheng’s team opened fresh packets of plastic bricks, selected 50 different kinds and assembled and disassembled each of them 10 times. Before and after images were taken with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), which revealed that a small number of particles were initially present due to the manufacturing process but their abundance was far greater following simulated play. …

The images suggest that friction from repeatedly connecting and disconnecting bricks generated scratches and scuffs where micro- and nano-sized particles formed, predominantly at the tip of the interlocking studs, as well as along their length and inside the stud receptacles. Combining the SEM images with statistical analysis, the team estimated the number of particles generated, finding that every square millimetre of the blocks under clicking and unclicking stress were producing thousands of microparticles and hundreds of thousands of nanoparticles (smaller than 20μm). …

Results showed that the particles were either ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or polycarbonate, both used to make toy building bricks, including Lego. While these are deemed to be safe and non-toxic plastics, some studies have found that fumes and fine particles of ABS produced by 3D printing could be toxic. However, whether micro- and nano-sized particles from toys such as building blocks pose a health risk if inhaled or ingested remains an open question. https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/playing-with-plastic-toy-building-bricks-creates-microplastic-and-nanoplastic-pollution/4019504.article

Well, if children are playing with plastic toys, suggesting that they do not inhale nano/micro plastics makes no sense, as children have to breathe. That said, in theory, perhaps one could open the package outside (in the shade) and let them out-gas for some period of time to reduce inhalation matters. But that 1) would not solve all of the exposure, 2) is not what normally happens when parents buy children plastic toys, as usually they are given in their originally purchased packaging, and 3) it is playing with them that tends to increase the nano/micro-particles, as friction associated with connecting them produces more particles.

As far as microplastics go, the British publication The Guardian reported the following:

Microplastics found in every human testicle in study

Scientists say discovery may be linked to decades-long decline in sperm counts in men around the world

20 May 2024

Microplastics have been found in human testicles, with researchers saying the discovery might be linked to declining sperm counts in men.

The scientists tested 23 human testes, as well as 47 testes from pet dogs. They found microplastic pollution in every sample.

The human testicles had been preserved and so their sperm count could not be measured. However, the sperm count in the dogs’ testes could be assessed and was lower in samples with higher contamination with PVC. The study demonstrates a correlation but further research is needed to prove microplastics cause sperm counts to fall.

Sperm counts in men have been falling for decades, with chemical pollution such as pesticides implicated by many studies. Microplastics have also recently been discovered in human blood, placentas and breast milk, indicating widespread contamination of people’s bodies. The impact on health is as yet unknown but microplastics have been shown to cause damage to human cells in the laboratory. …

A smaller study in China in 2023 also found microplastics in six human testes and 30 semen samples. Recent studies in mice have reported that microplastics reduced sperm count and caused abnormalities and hormone disruptions. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/may/20/microplastics-human-testicles-study-sperm-counts

Plastics have long been assumed by the world’s scientists as inert and safe to be around.

While most people can tolerate small amounts of them, the massive use of plastics has gotten to the point that most of us are exposed to a lot of microplastics.

As more and more plastics have been used and disposed of, more people have come to the conclusion that there are health and other risks associated with plastics.

The proposed solutions may reduce individual exposure, which is good, but will not solve all the problems associated with it.

Related to some herbs that may help, here are some comments from a technical paper I recently wrote:

Microplastic and Nanoplastic Detoxification …

By Robert Thiel, Ph.D.

 Executive summary: There are major concerns about microplastics and nanoplastics that enter into the human body orally and/or through breathing. Although there is no universally accepted way to detoxify the body of all of them, there are foods such as acerola cherries, fenugreek, ginger, boswellia, turmeric, and others that have been shown to support the reduction of inflammation and may support physiological defenses against oxidative or inflammatory stress associated with microplastic exposure. This is because of their:

 Nutrient components (vitamin C, quercetin, saponins),

  1. Containing of amphiphilic compounds that may form micelle-like structures during digestion,
  2. Ability to support bile metabolism,
  3. Ability to support liver and lymphatic detoxification, and
  4. Ability to prevent and/or remove oxidative damage (which can be an indirect result of plastic ingestion). …

Plastic Issues and Remedies

“Nanoplastics (NPs) as contaminants in food and water have drawn increasing public attention … NPs reduce brain function” [1]. Microplastics and nanoplastics are being implicated in neurological degeneration, negative effects of aging, and other matters. Animal studies have shown these plastics can trigger inflammatory responses [1,2].

Avoidance of all such plastics is basically impossible in the 21st century, but people would be wise to reduce exposure.

Beyond that, while there is no accepted ‘treatment’ for all ingested microplastics or nanoplastics, that does not mean that foods and nutrients from foods cannot be helpful in their removal or with any inflammation they may cause.

Consider that many foods and herbs have historically been used to assist with inflammation [1]. The combination of anti-inflammatory foods found in Turmeric- Boswellia C is something to consider.

Understand that plastics are composed of hydrophobic molecules [3]. It has been shown that amphiphilic block copolymers self-assemble into micelles with a hydrophobic core that can solubilize/encapsulate hydrophobic molecules such as those found in plastics [3].

A micelle is a supramolecular structure formed by amphiphilic molecules — compounds with both a hydrophobic (nonpolar) part and a hydrophilic (polar) part. They spontaneously form spherical (or sometimes cylindrical) aggregates in aqueous solution, with the hydrophobic tails inward and the hydrophilic heads outward. Classic examples include detergents, bile salts, phospholipids, and saponins.

While no foods literally contain amphiphilic micelles in the same structured form found in lab surfactant systems, many foods naturally form micelles during digestion, or contain molecules capable of forming micelles once mixed with bile or water–fat interfaces.

Foods such acerola cherries, fenugreek, ginger, boswellia, and turmeric have often been found to work better together than separately. Furthermore, they do contain molecules that can act amphiphilically and may form micelle-like or colloidal aggregates under certain conditions (especially in water or oil-water mixtures). So, while they don’t contain pre-formed micelles in the same sense as soap or bile, extracts from these plants can self-assemble into micelle-like colloids because of their natural amphiphilic compounds. This may account for the finding that some substances contained within them, like saponins which are in all of them (though most abundant in fenugreek), may influence microplastic aggregation, adsorption, and elimination [4].

Saponins are textbook amphiphilic molecules and form micelles that can encapsulate hydrophobic substances [5,6]—microplastics are hydrophobic substances. Although many microplastic particles are too large to be encapsulated in micelles, nanoplastics certainly can be. Other effects from saponins on larger microplastic particles would likely relate to surface adsorption or changes in aggregation, as opposed to true micelle entrapment.

Although many plastics/polymers are electrically neutral, their surface reactivity and leached chemicals can provoke oxidative stress. Thus, their presence in living organisms can result in oxidative damage [7]. Therefore, antioxidant containing foods (like acerola cherries) can help reduce, as well as “clean up,” some of that damage.

Acerola cherries (Malpighia emarginata DC) are one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C and contain phytonutrients like carotenoids phenolics, anthocyanins, and flavonoids [8]. “The vitamin C produced by acerola is better absorbed by the human organism than synthetic ascorbic acid” [9]. The presence of functional phytochemicals in acerola has been shown to influence the intestinal epithelial cells to increase the cellular uptake of vitamin C as opposed to vitamin C alone [10]. “Acerola…contains bioflavonoids” [11], anthocyanins, and quercetin [12]. An animal study found that “acerola juice reduces low-grade inflammation” [13]. Vitamin C “occurs in the body in the form of ascorbate, known for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties” [14]. Not only does vitamin C have free radical scavenging abilities, it also has been shown to increase the antioxidant abilities of some other foods [6]. Vitamin C has been shown to “reduce stress markers and inflammation by neutralizing harmful molecules, activating protective pathways, and regulating autophagy, providing potential protection” associated with microplastics [4]. Curcumin, which is a component of turmeric, tends to improve the anti-inflammatory traits of vitamin C [15]. Studies show that vitamin C can reduce toxicities [16]. Acerola cherries contain both vitamin C and bioflavonoids which work synergistically, whereas one study showed that vitamin C “acts synergistically to protect cutaneous tissue cells in culture against oxidative damage” [16].

An in vitro study performed at Doctors’ Research with a digital ORP meter demonstrated that a citrus food vitamin C has negative ORP, but that ascorbic acid had positive ORP [17]. It is negative ORP which better helps clean up oxidative damage [18]. Since ascorbic acid has positive ORP (as well as positive redox potential [19]), it can never replace food vitamin C. Thus, high vitamin C foods, such as acerola cherries, should be considered when plastic ingestion contributes to free radical damage.

Boswellia gum (Boswellia serrata), also known as frankincense, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties [20,21]. An animal study it helpful against the effect of toxicants [22]. Boswellia’s anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties may account for its protection against induced toxins [23]. “The gum exudate obtained from the bark of the tree B. serrata, also called Indian olibanum, has been … widely used in various formulations for the treatment of inflammation” [24]. Boswellia contains triterpenoids. Triterpenoids, although themselves highly hydrophobic, can form colloids in the presence of other amphiphilic compounds (e.g., phospholipids or surfactants in extracts) [25]. “For several thousand years (~4000) Boswellia serrata and Curcuma longa have been used in Aryuvedic medicine for treatment of various illnesses … which are mediated through pathways associated with inflammation … The anti-inflammatory effects of boswellic acids and curcumin have translated to … the improvement … as shown in numerous clinical trials” [26]. Other studies have also pointed to the synergistic benefit of combining boswellia and turmeric together [27]. Another paper concluded that boswellia and fenugreek worked well together [28].

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.) (FG) is a plant … with … anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, … effects … evidence supports a role for fenugreek in protecting against … inflammation” [29]. It is approved by German Commission E for inflammation of the skin [20]. It has also been found to be helpful for dealing with toxins and inflammation of the lungs [30]. Fenugreek gum and Boswellia gum have been found to work synergistically [31]. Fenugreek contains quercetin [32]. Fenugreek also contains saponins [20]. Saponins in fenugreek can influence bile acid metabolism and lipid emulsification, which may aid in the detoxification of nanoplastics [33]. Fenugreek saponins, “After oral administration, with gentle stirring in the gastrointestinal fluids, they form micro- or nanoemulsions” [34]. Thus, that could also be why fenugreek can be helpful in detoxifying from nanoparticles substances like plastics.

Ginger rhizome Zingiber officinale has anti-inflammatory effects [20]. “Scientific evidence supports the beneficial properties of ginger, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities” [35]. “Ginger, a well-known natural product, has been demonstrated to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, properties” and supports “healthy aging” [36]. “Overall, eight RCTs reported the anti-inflammatory effect of ginger supplementation” [37]. On a totally different note, a randomized double-blind study found health benefits when fenugreek, ginger, and turmeric were combined [38]. An animal study found that ginger looked to help protect against toxic changes caused by a type of plastic [39]. Ginger aids with bile metabolism [40]. Since in vitro research suggests that bile salts potentially appear to assist in aggregation of micro and nano plastics [41], this may represent one pathway by which ginger could influence the processing or aggregation of plastic particles, and thus may be a way ginger assists in the removal of plastics in the body.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a type of herb belonging to ginger family … Turmeric’s effects on health are generally centered upon an orange-yellow colored, lipophilic polyphenol substance called “curcumin,” which is acquired from the rhizomes of the herb. Curcumin is known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, effects [42]. “Tutrmeric has antihepatotoxic … and antinflammatory effects[20]. Curcuma longa (syn. C. domestica Valeton and C. brog Valeton) is also known as “turmeric” worldwide [43]. “In general, curcumin is beneficial to human health, demonstrating pharmacological activities of anti-inflammation and antioxidation [44]. Curcumin in combination with boswellic acid is more effective “presumably due to synergistic effects of curcumin and boswellic acid” [45]. Turmeric compounds support “healthy aging” as they have helped prevent cellular damage [46] and may offer protective antioxidant activity against microplastic-induced stress [4]. A study including turmeric, ginger root, vitamin C, and boswellia extracts concluded there was efficacy of the blend [47]. Curcumin can form nanosized colloidal aggregates in aqueous media and in the presence of natural emulsifiers [48], hence that may explain turmeric’s aiding in the expulsion of microplastics.

Scientific research has concluded that the combinations of antioxidants such as vitamin C (which is in acerola cherries), quercetin (which is in acerola cherries and fenugreek) and curcumin (which is in turmeric) have been found to “reduce stress markers and inflammation by neutralizing harmful molecules, activating protective pathways, and regulating autophagy, providing potential protection” associated with microplastics [4].

Based on current scientific literature, ingredients such as turmeric, boswellia, fenugreek, ginger, black pepper, and acerola cherries provide synergistic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support that may help mitigate some biological effects associated with microplastic exposure.

Various peer-reviewed scientific papers have concluded that combinations of these types of foods have been found to be more effective than many of them alone for things like inflammation and plastic detoxification.

References

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[16] Hendler SS, Rorvik D. Pdr for Nutritional Supplementd, 2nd edition. Thomson Reuters, 2008
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[18] Fowkes SW.  Antioxidants & reduction.  Smart Life News, 2000;7(9):6-8
[19] Budvari S, et al editors. The Merck Index: An encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals, 12th ed.  Merck Research Laboratories, Whitehouse Station (NJ), 1996
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[21] Beghelli D, et al. Antioxidant and Ex Vivo Immune System Regulatory Properties of Boswellia serrata Extracts. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2017; 2017: 7468064
[22] Alyahya A, Asad M. Repeated 28-DAY oral dose study on Boswellia sacra oleo gum resin extract for testicular toxicity in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2020 Aug 10:258:112890. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112890
[23] Rahimi VB, et al. Boswellia serrata inhibits LPS-induced cardiotoxicity in H9c2 cells: Investigating role of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Toxicon. 2023 Jun 15:229:107132. doi: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107132
[24] Almeida-da-Silva CL, et al. Effects of Frankincense Compounds on Infection, Inflammation, and Oral Health. Molecules. 2022 Jul; 27(13): 4174
[25] Cometa S, et al. Effectiveness of gellan gum scaffolds loaded with Boswellia serrata extract for in-situ modulation of pro-inflammatory pathways affecting cartilage healing. Int J Biol Macromol. 2024 Oct;277(Pt 1):134079. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134079
[26] Septhi V. Potential complementary and/or synergistic effects of curcumin and boswellic acids for management of osteoarthritis. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis. 2022; 14
[27] Bannuru RR, et al. Efficacy of Curcumin and Boswellia for Knee Osteoarthritis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2018 Dec; 48(3): 416–429
[28] Chattopadhyay K, et al. Effectiveness and Safety of Ayurvedic Medicines in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Management: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Pharmacol. 2022 Jun 8;13:821810
[29] Knott EJ, et al. Fenugreek supplementation during high-fat feeding improves specific markers of metabolic health. Sci Rep. 2017; 7: 12770
[30] Abdrabouh A. Inflammatory and proapoptotic effects of inhaling gasoline fumes on the lung and ameliorative effects of fenugreek seeds. Sci Rep. 2022; 12: 14446
[31] Kumar RV, Sinha VR. A novel synergistic galactomannan-based unit dosage form for sustained release of acarbose. AAPS PharmSciTech . 2012 Mar;13(1):262-75
[32] Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006.2025 Jul 15
[33] Shao Z, et al. Aggregation kinetics of polystyrene nanoplastics in gastric environments: Effects of plastic properties, solution conditions, and gastric constituents. Environment International, Volume 170, December 2022, 107628
[34] Sinka D, et al. Formulation, Characterization and Permeability Studies of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) Containing Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery System (SEDDS). Molecules. 2022 Apr 29;27(9):2846. doi: 10.3390/molecules27092846
[35] Ballester P, et al. Effect of Ginger on Inflammatory Diseases. Molecules. 2022 Nov; 27(21): 7223
[36] Ozkur M. Ginger for Healthy Ageing: A Systematic Review on Current Evidence of Its Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anticancer Properties.Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2022; 2022: 4748447
[37] Anh NH, et al. Ginger on Human Health: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of 109 Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients. 2020 Jan; 12(1): 157
[38] Bumrungpert A, et al. Effects of Fenugreek, Ginger, and Turmeric Supplementation on Human Milk Volume and Nutrient Content in Breastfeeding Mothers: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial. Breastfeed Med. 2018 Nov 9. doi: 10.1089
[39] Denwer S, et. al. The possible protective effect of ginger extract on toxic changes induced by bisphenol A on the thyroid gland of adult male albino rats: light and electron microscopic study. Ultrastruct Pathol. 2024 Nov;48(6):445-475. doi: 10.1080/01913123.2024.2395849
[40] Yu Y, et al. Dry ginger and Schisandra chinensis modulate intestinal flora and bile acid metabolism to treatment asthma. Front Microbiol. 2025 Mar 27:16:1541335. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1541335
[41] Shao Z, et al. Aggregation kinetics of polystyrene nanoplastics in gastric environments: Effects of plastic properties, solution conditions, and gastric constituents. Environment International, Volume 170, December 2022, 107628
[42] Kocaadam B, Şanlier N. Curcumin, an active component of turmeric (Curcuma longa), and its effects on health. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2017 Sep 2;57(13):2889-2895
[43] Dosoky NS, Setzer W. Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Essential Oils of Curcuma Species. Nutrients. 2018 Sep; 10(9): 1196
[44] Liu S, et al. A Comprehensive Review on the Benefits and Problems of Curcumin with Respect to Human Health. Molecules. 2022 Jul; 27(14): 4400
[45] Haroyan A, et al. Efficacy and safety of curcumin and its combination with boswellic acid in osteoarthritis: a comparative, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2018; 18: 7
[46] Rahman M, et al. Curcuma longa L. Prevents the Loss of β-Tubulin in the Brain and Maintains Healthy Aging in Drosophila melanogaster. Mol Neurobiol. 2022; 59(3): 1819–1835
[47] Bharat TB, et al. Ingredients of a Natural Oral Nutritional Supplement and Their Role in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis. Clin Med Insights Arthritis Musculoskelet Disord. 2022 Mar 25;15:11795441211063365
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So, yes, some herbs may help. And there are others that the above did not mention.

That said, even in the 20th century, more began to be realized about modern chemicals and pollution as the old Worldwide Church of God published the following:

We are dosing the environment with materials that poison virtually everything. Some of these poisons are extremely persistent and are absolutely everywhere!

Changing Climate

One of the main things that we are doing is changing the climate of the planet. We are accelerating climatic changes in all sorts of ways. The climate of the planet depends primarily on the heat balance, the balance between incoming and outgoing solar radiation. Adding carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, which we have been doing at a merry rate since about 1870 ·by burning fossil fuels, tends to warm the entire planet. The average temperature rose considerably until about 1940, and then the trend reversed. We now have a cooling trend which most meteorologists blame on the amount of particulate pollution that has been added to the atmosphere. Pollution is now absolutely world-wide. There has been a 35% increase in the particulate pollution over Mauna Loa, on the Island of Hawaii. There is a veil of pollution that covers the entire planet. (Ehrlich P. Our Environmental Crisis. Plain Truth magazine, June-July 1970)

Now, this does not mean that many have not politicized and even faked climate change data for improper goals. But the reality is that many poisons have affected the environment and are factors in the loss of species–and pollution has become an increasing problem worldwide–with sins of various types being the real cause.

But, it was not supposed to be that way. Notice something from the Book of Genesis

15 Then the LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it (Genesis 2:15).

The concept of tending and keeping a garden suggests proper environmental stewardship. God made humans to make things better.

Now notice something else about the creation:

24 Then God said, “Let the earth bring forth the living creature according to its kind: cattle and creeping thing and beast of the earth, each according to its kind”; and it was so. 25 And God made the beast of the earth according to its kind, cattle according to its kind, and everything that creeps on the earth according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.

26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”

29 And God said, “See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food. 30 Also, to every beast of the earth, to every bird of the air, and to everything that creeps on the earth, in which there is life, I have given every green herb for food”; and it was so. 31 Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. (Genesis 1:24-31)

People in general, and Christians in particular, should try to pollute less. We should not litter. We should pick up after ourselves. We should try to ensure our plastic trash does not blow into waterways or on the land. We should try to avoid, or minimize, the use of synthetic chemicals where it is feasible. And yes, we can separate trash for recycling, as well as try to reuse items instead of throwing them away and replacing them. We should live as Christian pacifists–human wars have long been a factor in pollution and destruction and this will get worse. We should live as Jesus did and strive not to sin.

International groups fighting pollution normally leave sin and the Bible out of their solutions, but that is a major contributor to pollution of all types. Humans need to live God’s way to correct this, but since they have refused, for about 6,000 years (see also Could God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End?), we have increasing pollution and other problems.

The creation is groaning under the weight of sin, but Christians will help restore it:

19 For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; 21 because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. (Romans 8:19-22)

This will happen with the return of Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). All things were created through and for Jesus (Colossians 1:15-20). And the world will be purged and a new, unpolluted, earth will be here:

10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. 11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. (2 Peter 3:10-13)

Jesus will lead the charge to fix the environmental and other problems that the world is unwilling to properly fix now.

As far as the climate and the ecological situation, the Bible shows that ‘global warming’ will get much worse:

8 Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and power was given to him to scorch men with fire. 9 And men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give Him glory. (Revelation 16:8-9)

While humans should repent, they are not prophesied to do so in sufficient numbers in this age.

As far whether or not humans will, on their own, solve climate and pollution issues, notice what could be considered as an environmental prophecy:

18 The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come,
And the time of the dead, that they should be judged,
And that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints,
And those who fear Your name, small and great,
And should destroy those who destroy the earth (Revelation 11:18).

Thus, God is not pleased when humans abuse the environment.

God will have to intervene or all flesh would be destroyed.

But because most humans will not repent, this does not mean you cannot.

And we can all try to live as responsible stewards.

The Bible does reveal that there is a solution to pollution and ‘climate change.’

However, it will take God to truly fix the polluting and warring disasters that humans are causing through sin. Having the true God’s involvement is something that those leading the UN, Europe, and most other nations do not believe or understand.

We also have the following related video:

14:48

Microplastic Health Risks

Plastics are all around these days. Are there risks from microplastic and/or nanoplastic particles? Could there be a 4.5 times greater risk of having a stroke because of microplastics? Are there risks of reduced male fertility and cardiovascular issues related to the accumulation of plastics in humans and animals? Where do these small plastic particles come from? How can you reduce your risks? Are nanoplastic particles in water bottled in hard plastic potentially dangerous? What about inhaling toys made of plastic likes ‘Legos’? Are synthetic clothes and even tire dust a health risk? Will humans solve climate and heat matters? What does the Bible say about that? Is a better world coming? Steve Dupuie and Dr. Thiel discuss these matters.

Here is a link to our video: Microplastic Health Risks.

Jesus’s kingdom will be the solution to pollution. Notice what will happen:

3 For the Lord will comfort Zion,
He will comfort all her waste places;
He will make her wilderness like Eden,
And her desert like the garden of the Lord;
Joy and gladness will be found in it,
Thanksgiving and the voice of melody.

4 “Listen to Me, My people;
And give ear to Me, O My nation:
For law will proceed from Me,
And I will make My justice rest
As a light of the peoples.
5 My righteousness is near,
My salvation has gone forth,
And My arms will judge the peoples;
The coastlands will wait upon Me,
And on My arm they will trust. (Isaiah 51:3-5)

Yes, a better world is coming. The knowledge of the reality of the Gospel of the Kingdom of God brings hope.

But yes, until then, we face a lot of pollution, from plastics and other chemicals.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The Bible, Christians, and the Environment How should Christians view the environment? Does the Bible give any clues? What are some of the effects of air, water, and land pollution? Is environmental pollution a factor in autism and death? Do pollutants seem to double the autism risk? What will Jesus do? Here is a link to a related sermon: Christians and the Environment (there is also a YouTube video available titled Air Pollution, Autism, and Prophecy, one titled Will Pollution lead to the End?, and one called COP 27 and Solving Climate Change).
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? Two related videos include UN’s ‘New Universal Agenda’ is a False Gospel! and United Nations and Vatican Are Planning the New World Order.
Weather Blessings and Sorrows Are weather problems a warning? What should be done? What does the Bible teach about weather? What about floods, droughts, heat, earthquakes, tornadoes, and solar storms? Here is a related YouTube video Does God Use Weather? A related item in the Spanish language would be Bendiciones y maldiciones del clima.
Hope–yes you can have it! Hope is stronger than fear. Learn how to have more hope. A related video is also available: How to Be More Hopeful.
Is God Calling You? This booklet discusses topics including calling, election, and selection. If God is calling you, how will you respond? Here is are links to related sermons: Christian Election: Is God Calling YOU? and Predestination and Your Selection; here is a message in Spanish: Me Está Llamando Dios Hoy? A short animation is also available: Is God Calling You?
Christian Repentance Do you know what repentance is? Is it really necessary for salvation? Two related sermons about this are also available: Real Repentance and Real Christian Repentance.
About Baptism Should you be baptized? Could baptism be necessary for salvation? Who should baptize and how should it be done? Here is a link to a related sermon: Let’s Talk About Baptism and Baptism, Infants, Fire, & the Second Death.

The Gospel of the Kingdom of God This free online pdf booklet has answers many questions people have about the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and explains why it is the solution to the issues the world is facing. It is available over 1000 languages at ccog.org. Here are links to four kingdom-related sermons:  The Fantastic Gospel of the Kingdom of God!, The World’s False Gospel, The Gospel of the Kingdom: From the New and Old Testaments, and The Kingdom of God is the Solution.

Pope Leo XIV named the Italian Encyclopedia Institute Treccani’s Person of the Year

Tuesday, December 30th, 2025

COGwriter

Zenit.com posted the following:

Pope Leo XIV Named Treccani’s Person of the Year: A Pontificate of Subtle Strength and Measured Influence

29 December 2025

In a year marked by geopolitical tensions, economic volatility, and social unrest, the Italian Encyclopedia Institute Treccani has recognized Pope Leo XIV as its 2025 Person of the Year. The decision underscores the impact of a pontificate that, while understated in public spectacle, embodies foundational Christian values such as sobriety, discernment, and attentive listening—qualities the Institute lauds as emblematic of “a Church for the poor.”

The Treccani Yearbook 2025 emphasizes the Pope’s deliberate choice to temper his visibility and rhetoric. “Parsimonious in presence and words,” Leo XIV has navigated the pressures of global attention by avoiding polarizing categorizations, both politically and theologically. This measured approach contrasts sharply with the high-octane rhetoric of contemporary world leaders, positioning the pontiff as a stabilizing presence in an era of fragmented narratives and competing ambitions. https://zenit.org/2025/12/29/pope-leo-xiv-named-treccanis-person-of-the-year-a-pontificate-of-subtle-strength-and-measured-influence/

First of all, I have not seen Pope Leo XIV take the steps emblematic of  “a Church for the poor.”

Consider that shortly after his election in 2013, Pope Francis declared:

“Oh, how I would like a poor Church, and for the poor.”  http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/03/16/us-pope-poor-idUSBRE92F05P20130316

While on the surface the Pope’s words are what a ‘lamb’ may say, could it be part of the speech of a dragon (Revelation 13:11)?

Pope Francis repeatedly made statements about the poor (e.g. Laudato Si: Pope’s Agenda or Kingdom of God? and Pope tells United Nations to push wealth redistribution–a sign of Revelation 13 & 17?), but did not do much that seemed tangible that way.

Francis repeatedly told others to give to the poor. But in his 12 years as pontiff, the Vatican still retained its vast wealth and did not loosen its own purse strings significantly beyond what previous pontiffs did. Nor has Leo XIV.

The Bible tells about an unfaithful harlot church that wallows in wealth (Revelation 17:1-9, 18:7). Having been to Vatican City numerous times, I have seen some of that wealth on display.

Could that change?

What might happen if Pope Leo XIV actually sells off some of the vast treasures (such as jewels and land) of the Vatican and/or gives significant amounts of money/land away to the poor?

Well, if he does that, it will likely greatly enhance the pedophile-damaged image of the Church of Rome for the media and many others around the world. This will enhance the appeal of the religion that Rome will promote. Even if it gives away only a quarter of its vast wealth.

The Bible warns that the whole world will profit financially from the final end time Babylon (Revelation 18:9, 15-19). And in addition to trade, giving away wealth and land–in conjunction with the final King of the North (Daniel 11:24, 39), that the final Antichrist will support–will be a factor in the temporal success of this condemned system.

Notice that financial pressures will be something that the Antichrist is associated with:

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. (Revelation 13:16-17)

The “He” above is the two-horned beast (Revelation 13:11), also known as the False Prophet (Revelation 16:13), and Antichrist (1 John 4:1-3).

The Bible also says that the merchants of the world will have gotten wealthy from the system that the Antichrist will promote:

2 Babylon the great … has become a dwelling place of demons…a cage for every unclean and hated bird! 3…and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury. (Revelation 18:2a,b,d, 3c)

So, there are several biblical prophecies that tie the power that the Antichrist supports with a type of deceitful prosperity. Did you notice the connection to a cage of birds above? Well, then notice then also the following:

27 As a cage is full of birds,
So their houses are full of deceit.
Therefore they have become great and grown rich.
28 They have grown fat, they are sleek;
Yes, they surpass the deeds of the wicked;
They do not plead the cause,
The cause of the fatherless;
Yet they prosper,
And the right of the needy they do not defend.
29 Shall I not punish them for these things?’ says the Lord.
‘Shall I not avenge Myself on such a nation as this?’

30 “An astonishing and horrible thing
Has been committed in the land:
31 The prophets prophesy falsely,
And the priests rule by their own power;
And My people love to have it so.
But what will you do in the end? (Jeremiah 5:27-31)

So, the supporters of the Beast and Antichrist/False Prophet will prosper for a time, then God will punish them.

Furthermore, notice three Roman Catholic writings/prophecies about the final Antichrist:

Saint Mechtilda (died 1299): Antichrist will, through base and false strategem, and with presents of gold and gems, attain influence over the worldly princes. They will look up to him as their Lord and God (Culleton, The Reign of Antichrist, pp. 133-134).

Saint Ephrem (died 375): Antichrist will use worldly goods as bait. He will entice many Christians with money and goods to apostatize…The devil will help him find all the hidden treasures of the world, even those at the bottom of the ocean. With those treasures he will attain greater success for the reign of Satan than at any other time in past centuries (Connor, pp.73.74).

Saint Jerome (died 420): Antichrist…will gain support with many gifts and money. He will sell himself to the devil…(Connor E. Prophecy for Today. Imprimatur + A.J. Willinger, Bishop of Monterey-Fresno; Reprint: Tan Books and Publishers, Rockford (IL), 1984, p. 74).

The Bible, by the way, does mention that the King of the North will end up with a lot of gold, silver, and precious stones (Daniel 11:38,43) and that a seven-hilled/mountain-based power will have “gold and precious stones and pearls” (Revelation 17:4).

But is it possible that before the Beast rises up that the Antichrist will use material items for bait?

Might the Antichrist use some of the wealth of the Vatican to support certain European nations/leaders?

Yes.

With that in mind, consider something the late Pastor General of the old Worldwide Church of God, Herbert W. Armstrong, said in a sermon on July 7, 1984:

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

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

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

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

So, an economic or banking crisis is what Herbert W. Armstrong concluded would drive Europe to unite.

And, I agree that it will take some type of crisis for Europe to reorganize–and probably more than one.

Could something like an economic or banking crisis in Europe motivate the Vatican to sell off, or at least pledge, much of its vast wealth to prevent a collapse in Europe?

Could that help unify Europe to reorganize and rise up as prophesied in the Bible in Revelation 13:2-18 and 17:12-13?

We will see.

Pope Leo XIV may well be involved in that.

Now, getting back to Pope Leo XIV himself in 2025, one thing he truly has done has been to work on ecumenical unity since he became pontiff this year.

Steps towards ecumenical and interfaith unity, which this time Pope Leo is calling synergy, are being taken.

In my free eBook book titled The Last Pope of the Malachy Prophecies: Do Biblical and Greco-Roman Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Leo XIV?I have the following:

Leo XIV will be ecumenical. …

From May 20, 325 A.D./C.E. to August 325, the Roman Emperor Constantine convened the Council of Nicea. One of his political objectives was to get ecumenical unity in certain matters. In 2025, there are meetings to mark the 1700th anniversary of this, which are expected to include ecumenical discussions.

Pope Francis had expected to participate. So we would expect that his replacement, Pope Leo XIV, to get involved somehow in this. Actually, before the conclave to elect Pope Leo XIV was called, Patriarch Barthlomew of Constantinople extended an invitation for the next pope to attend the 1700th anniversary of Nicea. Like Emperor Constantine, Pope Leo XIV would like to ecumenical reconciliation for religious and political reasons.

Within a week of becoming pontiff, Pope Leo met with eastern Roman Catholic churches (see Pope Leo XIV met with ‘Churches of the East’–what did 1st century Christians believe?). He urged them to hold fast to their traditions–yet sadly, they changed from the original faith (watch: Original Church of the East). He also has taken steps with the Eastern Orthodox, Protestants, and others. Here is something related to the Eastern Orthodox:

September 23, 2025

A group of theologians working on dialogue between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches reported progress in understanding of one of the main thorny issues between the two bodies: papal infallibility.

The Coordinating Committee of the Joint International Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches met September 8–12 in Rethymno, reporting “progress” on a draft text about papal infallibility and setting up a new team to finalize revisions for review next year (2026).

Co-chaired by Cardinal Kurt Koch and Metropolitan Job of Pisidia, the session was hosted by Metropolitan Prodromos of Rethymno and Avlopotamos, continuing a pattern of hospitality that has helped the committee’s work since 2022.

Members examined two draft texts — one on the filioque and another on infallibility— deciding to tackle the latter first.

According to a communiqué, the redrafting group will submit changes to the full committee next year with a view to preparing a text for a future plenary session.

Beyond the meeting room, delegates prayed and met with local faithful, visiting the parish of Gerani and the monasteries of St. Irene and St. John the Forerunner — gestures of fraternity that often accompany steady, if quiet, theological work.

Participants also marked major transitions in the Catholic Church since their last gathering: the death of Pope Francis on April 21 and the election of Pope Leo XIV on May 8. The communiqué expressed prayerful gratitude for Francis and confidence in Leo XIV’s support for dialogue.

Looking ahead, the committee welcomed hopes for a meeting between Pope Leo XIV and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew during the 1,700th anniversary year of the Council of Nicaea. Such an encounter, they said, would witness to Christian unity in a fractured world. https://aleteia.org/2025/09/23/orthodox-catholic-talks-move-forward-on-popes-authority/

The Vatican, though not officially part of the World Council of Churches, now has one of its priests as the new academic dean of the World Council of Churches’ Ecumenical Institute at Bossey (see World Council of Churches continues to push its ecumenical agenda, while working with the Roman Catholic Church).

The move towards unity among the trinitarians is happening.

Yet, that will NOT bring true unity of faith.

Pope Leo XIV is in my prayers.

I would like him and all others who profess to be Christians to heed the words of the Apostle Jude as are quoted in our free eBook Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church: Could a remnant group have continuing apostolic succession?:

The Original Faith

When Pope Leo XIV was Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, he stated:

The mission of the Church has been the same for 2000 years, when Jesus Christ said: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Mt 28:19). (Interview with Cardinal Robert Prevost OSA: “Above all, a bishop must proclaim Jesus Christ.” Augustine Order news, September 30, 2023)

So, he admitted that the mission was not to change, and was to including teaching ALL THAT JESUS commanded.

The Rheims New Testament of 1582 (an English translation from the Latin) states:

3 … contend for the faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 3).

16 Take heed to thyself and to doctrine: be earnest in them (1 Timothy 4:16)

The Eastern Orthodox Bible states:

3 … fight hard for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. (Jude 3)

16 Watch yourself and your teaching. Continue in these things! (1 Timothy 4:16)

The Lamsa Bible states:

3 … earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered to the saints. (Jude 3)

16 Take heed to yourself and to your doctrine; and be firm in them: for in doing this, you shall both save yourself and those who hear you. (1 Timothy 4:16)

The original apostles practiced what has been called Judeo-Christianity.

Once the original apostles were gone (all of which seemingly died in the first century, with the possibility that John lived until the start of the second century), who was supposed to continue to contend for the original faith and be earnest in that doctrine?

Why, the true saints of course! The real Christians who practiced and held to the original faith (cf. Revelation 14:12).

Specifically, at first, the real saints of the 1st century, some of which lived into the 2nd century. And then others born later.

Theological scholars realize that “everyone in the first generation of Christianity was Jewish Christian” (Reed AY. Jewish-Christianity and the History of Judaism. J.C.B. Mohr Verlag, 2018, p. XXII)—they held to the original faith.

Consider also, that biblical warnings are given to NOT depart from the original faith. Not from a specific organization.

The Apostle John also confirmed that former point about those who failed to continue in what he taught (1 John 2:19) and that latter point when he wrote about a church group that started out as true that ended up not willing to accept him or other true believers (3 John 9-10). John pointed out that although they claimed to represent the original organization and they claimed that organization still existed, they did not continue with the original faith.

Further consider who will be with Jesus when He returns:

14 … they that are with him are called, and elect, and faithful. (Revelation 17:14c, DRB)

14 … those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful. (Revelation 17:14c, OSB)

It is those who truly hold to the original faith that are called, chosen, and faithful. …

Jesus taught:

4 “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4, OSB)

Jesus was specifically referring to the Hebrew scriptures, commonly referred to as the Old Testament, and He attended synagogue on Saturdays (e.g. Mark 6:2; Luke 4:16).

Consider also that the Apostle Paul taught ALL scriptures were profitable (2 Timothy 3:16-17) and he attended on Saturdays as well (Acts 13:13-14, 42-45, 16:13, 18:1-4).

All who wish to be faithful Christians need to contend earnestly for the original faith, and strive to by live it and the rest of the words of God which are recorded in the Bible.

Some items of related interest may include:

Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church: Could a remnant group have continuing apostolic succession? Did the original “catholic church” have doctrines held by the Continuing Church of God? Did Church of God leaders uses the term “catholic church” to ever describe the church they were part of? Here are links to related sermons: Original Catholic Church of God?, Original Catholic Doctrine: Creed, Liturgy, Baptism, Passover, What Type of Catholic was Polycarp of Smyrna?, Tradition, Holy Days, Salvation, Dress, & Celibacy, Early Heresies and Heretics, Doctrines: 3 Days, Abortion, Ecumenism, Meats, Tithes, Crosses, Destiny, and more, Saturday or Sunday?, The Godhead, Apostolic Laying on of Hands Succession, Church in the Wilderness Apostolic Succession List, Holy Mother Church and Heresies, and Lying Wonders and Original Beliefs. Here is a link to that book in the Spanish language: Creencias de la iglesia Católica original.

Where is the True Christian Church Today? This free online pdf booklet answers that question and includes 18 proofs, clues, and signs to identify the true vs. false Christian church. Plus 7 proofs, clues, and signs to help identify Laodicean churches. A related sermon is also available: Where is the True Christian Church? Here is a link to the booklet in the Spanish language: ¿Dónde está la verdadera Iglesia cristiana de hoy? Here is a link in the German language: WO IST DIE WAHRE CHRISTLICHE KIRCHE HEUTE? Here is a link in the French language: Où est la vraie Église Chrétienne aujourd’hui? Here is a link to a short animation: Which Church would Jesus Choose?

The Last Pope of the Malachy Prophecies: Do Biblical and Greco-Roman Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Leo XIV? This 154 page book has biblical and Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies related to the last pope, an antipope who will be the final Antichrist.

Muslims, the Bible, and New Years?

Tuesday, December 30th, 2025


New Year’s Party (Pixabay photo)

COGwriter

A while back, a religious leader in Turkey publicly condemned New Year’s and Christmas as pagan:

Christmas and New Year celebrations are events where both pagan rituals and capitalist drives are intertwined, the head of Turkey’s Religious Affairs Directorate Mehmet Görmez said in a statement…

“What I will most object to as the religious affairs head is the Christmas consumer economy that causes cultural and identity-related erosion in children,” Görmez said…

“I see mass parties and celebrations similar to a form of revenge people take on the time phenomenon,” Görmez said. “Especially [celebrating] with drinking, gambling and lotteries… it is impossible to approve of such things.”

So, one who does not claim to be Christian has properly suggested that New Year’s parties are wrong and that Christmas’ influence on children is not positive for children.

The Bible teaches that God’s year begins in the Spring (Exodus 12:2).

Did you know that not only were Christmas and New Year’s not observed by early true Christians, even Roman Catholic-supporting writers condemned the celebration associated with them?

The Catholic Encyclopedia reports:

Christian writers and councils condemned the heathen orgies and excesses connected with the festival … celebrated at the beginning of the year: Tertullian blames Christians who regarded the customary presents — called strenae (Fr. étrennes) from the goddess Strenia, who presided over New Year’s Day (cf. Ovid, Fasti, 185-90) — as mere tokens of friendly intercourse (De Idol. xiv). (Tierney J. New Year’s Day. The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 11, 1911)

Around 487 A.D., the Greco-Romans seemed to adopt the “Feast of the Circumcision” on January 1st. This, however, did not stop all heathen activity.

The Catholic Encyclopedia notes:

Even in our own day the secular features of the opening of the New Year interfere with the religious observance of the Circumcision, and tend to make a mere holiday of that which should have the sacred character of a Holy Day. St. Augustine points out the difference between the pagan and the Christian manner of celebrating the day: pagan feasting and excesses were to be expiated by Christian fasting and prayer (P. L., XXXVIII, 1024 sqq.; Serm. cxcvii, cxcviii). (Ibid)

So it also states:

…towards the end of the sixth century the Council of Auxerre (can. I) forbade Christians strenas diabolicas observare.

The expression strenas diabolicas observare roughly translates from Latin to English as “observing the new time of the Devil.” It is likely that New Year’s resolutions are related to prayers and practices once given for the pagan goddess.

January 1st is not a biblical holiday, and even the Church of Rome has forbidden some of its attributes as demonic.

Various older Roman Catholic writings seem to condemn modern New Year’s celebrations which can also be seen in the passages below:

Even in our own day the secular features of the opening of the New Year interfere with the religious observance of the Circumcision, and tend to make a mere holiday of that which should have the sacred character of a Holy Day. St. Augustine points out the difference between the pagan and the Christian manner of celebrating the day: pagan feasting and excesses were to be expiated by Christian fasting and prayer (P. L., XXXVIII, 1024 sqq.; Serm. cxcvii, cxcviii) (Tierney John J. Transcribed by Wm Stuart French, Jr. Feast of the Circumcision. The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume III. Copyright © 1908 by Robert Appleton Company. Online Edition Copyright © 2003 by K. Knight. Nihil Obstat, November 1, 1908. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

Tertullian blames Christians who regarded the customary presents — called strenae (Fr. étrennes) from the goddess Strenia, who presided over New Year’s Day (cf. Ovid, Fasti, 185-90) — as mere tokens of friendly intercourse (De Idol. xiv), and towards the end of the sixth century the Council of Auxerre (can. I) forbade Christians strenas diabolicas observare. (St. Augustine, Serm., cxcvii-viii in P.L., XXXVIII, 1024; Isidore of Seville, De Div. Off. Eccl., I, xli; Trullan Council, 692, can. lxii) (Tierney John J. Transcribed by Thomas M. Barrett. New Year’s Day. The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume XI. Copyright © 1911 by Robert Appleton Company. Online Edition Copyright © 2003 by K. Knight. Nihil Obstat, February 1, 1911. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

Hence, it appears that Roman Catholic writings would condemn modern practices associated with New Year’s celebrations.

For more details, please see Is January 1st a Date for Christians Celebrate? and What Does the Catholic Church Teach About Christmas and the Holy Days?

Also, notice what the Bible teaches:

12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. 13 Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts. (Romans 13:12-14)

20 Do not mix with winebibbers, Or with gluttonous eaters of meat; 21 For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, And drowsiness will clothe a man with rags. (Proverbs 23:20-21)

1 Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, Whose glorious beauty is a fading flower Which is at the head of the verdant valleys, To those who are overcome with wine! 2 Behold, the Lord has a mighty and strong one, Like a tempest of hail and a destroying storm, Like a flood of mighty waters overflowing, Who will bring them down to the earth with His hand. 3 The crown of pride, the drunkards of Ephraim, Will be trampled underfoot; (Isaiah 28:1-3)

18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation (Ephesians 5:18)

A night of drunken revelry is not a Christian holiday and should not be observed by the faithful.

The partying drunkard is also specifically condemned as part of those that will not inherit the kingdom of God:

9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11)

19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21)

1…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. (2 Peter 2:1-2)

Christians should not participate in pagan holidays, and especially those that involve drunken revelries. Does not the observance of New Year’s Day contribute to blasphemy by the Gentiles (at least by some of the Muslim ones) because many who profess Christ keep it? This should never be.

Those who are Christians and used to do those things are expected to repent:

3 For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles — when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. 4 In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you. (1 Peter 4:3-4)

11 But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner — not even to eat with such a person. (1 Corinthians 5:11)

The fact that professors of Christ ignore clear scriptures causes a false version of “the Way” to be blasphemed by the Gentiles (Romans 2:24). The Turkish leader noticed the falseness of the practices of many who profess to be Christian.

Some items of related interest may include:

Is January 1st a Date for Christians Celebrate? Historical and biblical answers to this question about the world’s New Year’s day. A video of related interest is also available: God’s or Satan’s New Year?
Should You Observe God’s Holy Days or Demonic Holidays? This is a free pdf booklet explaining what the Bible and history shows about God’s Holy Days and popular holidays.
Differences Between Islam and the Continuing Church of God What are some of the main differences? Are there any similarities? A video of related interest is titled: Islam: Any Christian Concerns or Similarities?
Muslims believe Jesus is the Messiah, but … Do Muslims believe that Jesus was born of a virgin named Mary/Maryam/Miriam? Do they believe He was the Messiah? What does the Koran teach about that? What about Him being the Son of God? Muslims teach that Jesus will return, but to do what? Will Jesus destroy the Antichrist? What are some issues that Muslims have with professing Christianity? Were original Christians different than most that Muslims have later encountered? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues and more in this video.
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 There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days.
The Ten Commandments: The Decalogue, Christianity, and the Beast This is a free pdf book explaining the what the Ten Commandments are, where they came from, how early professors of Christ viewed them, and how various ones, including the Beast of Revelation, will oppose them. A related sermon is titled: The Ten Commandments and the Beast of Revelation.
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? For a more detailed discussion of the first four commandments, please see the video The Ten Commandments: Loving God. For a more detailed discussion of the last six commandments, please see: The Ten Commandments: Loving Your Neighbor. Here is a link to a related article in Mandarin Chinese 十条诫命显示爱,违反诫命的就是邪恶的
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?
Is Smoking a Sin? What does the Bible teach? What have COG leaders written? Can smokers change?
Alcohol: Blessing or Curse? This is an article from the old Good News magazine that attempts to answer this question.
Binge Drinking, Health, and the Bible Many college students and others overindulge in alcohol. Are there health risks? What does the Bible teach? A related video is also available: Binge Drinking and the Bible.
Obesity, processed foods, health risks, and the Bible Does the Bible warn about the consequences of being obese? Is overeating dangerous? Is gluttony condemned? What diseases are associated with eating too much refined foods? A related video would be Eating Right, Eating Too Much, and Prophecy.
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?
Islamic and Biblical Prophecies for the 21st Century This is a free online book which helps show where biblical and Islamic prophecies converge and diverge. Here are links to related sermons: Seeing Christianity Through Islamic Eyes, Imam Mahdi, women, and prophecy, and Terrorism, Iran, and Fatima, Dajjal, Antichrist, Gold, & Mark of the Beast?, and Jesus and God’s Plan for Muslims. Here is a link to a sermon in the Spanish language: El Imám Mahdi las mujeres y la profecía bíblica
Seeing Christianity Through Islamic Eyes This article has information from the book, Islamic and Biblical Prophecies for the 21st Century, as well as from the old WCG and other sources. Here is a link to a related sermon: Seeing Christianity Through Islamic Eyes. Here is a related sermon in the Spanish language: El cristianismo visto a través de los ojos islámicos.

European Union hit by tariffs and other trade issues in 2025–making new alliances is its plan

Monday, December 29th, 2025


Port of Hamburg Eurogate and Burchardkai container terminals 
(Photo by Carsten Steger via Wikipedia)

COGwriter

EuroNews posted the following:

In 2025, global trade cracked as Europe hurt by US tariffs and new China shock

29 December 2025

Hit by US tariffs and Chinese weaponisation of critical goods, the EU became squeezed by the aggressive trade agenda of the world’s two largest economies. Brussels now ponders new alliances and new markets.

In 2025, the first shock came from Washington. But it wasn’t the only one.

The world’s largest economy abruptly turned inward, rolling out a nationalist trade agenda and sweeping tariffs on partners worldwide.

Trade flows were forced to reroute – many of them towards Europe. At the same time, as tensions between the US and China escalated, Beijing began weaponising global dependence on rare earths, which are essential for Europe’s tech sector. …

With Donald Trump’s return to office, the White House launched its most aggressive trade offensive in a century, exposing the EU to higher tariffs just as China upped the pressure by restricting the exports of critical minerals needed to make everything, from planes to washing machines.

Walking a tightrope, the EU looked to Latin America, the Middle East and Africa to bolster new export markets – not without complications. …

Germany’s Sabine Weyand, acknowledged … “(The trade deal) created a basis for engagement between the EU and the US on a lot of other issues,” she said. “We will have to see how far that will carry us, but at least we have another basis of engagement with the administration which wasn’t there before,” Weyand said.

She also warned Europe is “paying the price for the fact we ignored the wake-up call we got during the first Trump administration – and went back to sleep. And I hope that this is not what we are doing now,” referring to EU’s dependence on the US security umbrella. …

As a result, the EU doubled down on efforts to diversify trade ties too. It struck deals with Mexico, Indonesia, Singapore and revived talks with India, even if it failed to ink a deal before 2025 as it hoped for.

The EU also struggled to seal the Mercosur agreement after 25 years of negotiation with Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Italy and France pushed the signature to 2026, while a vote on safeguards meant to protect EU farmers fearing unfair competition from Latin American countries was also deferred to 2026. https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/12/29/in-2025-global-trade-cracked-as-europe-hurt-by-us-tariffs-and-new-china-shock

In 2025, Europe increased trade with Asia:

Robust Asia, Europe trade drives up Hamburg’s container volumes

The Port of Hamburg Monday reported an 8.4% increase in container volume from January through September as booming Asian imports and intra-Europe shipments brushed off a sharp tariff-hit drop in trade with the US.

Europe’s third-largest container port handled 6.3 million TEUs in the first nine months of 2025, with Asian trade rising 11% year over year and trade with Europe up 14%, according to a Port of Hamburg statement. In the same period, container traffic with the US was “affected by complications in trade,” the German hub said, reflected by volumes that declined 23.9% to 395,000 TEUs. 11/17/25 https://www.joc.com/article/robust-asia-europe-trade-drives-up-hamburgs-container-volumes-6118183

India-EU Trade Deal Could Be Win-Win …

EU Trade Pivot Could Ease US Tariff Pain

As the India-US trade deal hangs fire, New Delhi’s negotiations with the European Union may ultimately deliver a bigger lift — boosting exports, deepening India’s role in global supply chains and cementing ties with the West.

The talks have regained momentum, as both sides look to reduce exposure to China and hedge against an unpredictable US. The year-end deadline is ambitious, but a deal by early next year is within reach.

The EU is India’s second-largest export market, just behind the US, with relatively low average tariffs of around 5%. But the challenge for Indian exporters is the non-tariff barriers — from technical standards to environmental and sustainability rules.

A free trade agreement would make India’s exports more competitive, especially as rivals like Vietnam and Bangladesh enjoy preferential tariffs in the EU. And Brussels could claw back market share lost to countries such as South Korea and Japan, which already have trade deals with India. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-11-19/russian-oil-deadline-looms-india-eu-trade-deal-could-be-win-win

Yes, despite being hurt by the Trump administration, the EU is making trade moves away from the USA.

Regarding trade, now notice something from my free eBook titled Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?:

Trade …

The morning after his reelection, I wrote:

 … Europe will get more serious about trade deals with others internationally, such as being more motivated to approve the trade deal with the Mercosur block of South America. …

One of the unintended consequences of Donald Trump’s threats of tariffs and other trade matters is that it is motivating nations he has threatened to look to trade more with each other.

Europe will get more serious about trade deals with others internationally …

  • Pushing tariffs and other policies that foreign nations do not like is contributing to other nations looking to bypass the USA dollar, as well as trade more with each other and less with the USA. This will further push various globalist’s moves forward without the USA. This is also helping set the stage for the coming European Babylonian Beast to dominate international trade.

Such moves are happening in Europe.

Notice also number 8 of my 25 items to prophetically watch in 2025:

8. Trade

Not all warfare is militaristic. There is also economic warfare.

This often involves trade. …

Donald Trump’s reelection is a major concern for Europe and its trade.

In 2018, I wrote:

The Europeans have been working with Latin America, China, Russia’s Eurasian Union, and other areas of the world to try to set up its dominance of world trade as well as standards for world trade. (19 items to prophetically watch in 2019)

Such deals have been happening. But expect more concrete action, at least partially because of the reelection of Donald Trump, along with J.D. Vance.

Europe will reach out to various ones in Asia and Africa, as well as Latin America. In the next several years, deals and more trade will occur with Africa, Asia, and Latin America. …

The Europeans will work with many nations to secure stronger trade agreements.

The Europeans are working with many nations to secure stronger trade deals.

Things will not turn out as Donald Trump hopes (cf. Daniel 11:39).

Related to future trade, we put together the following video:

14:49

Trade Wars – and the Winner will be …

US President Trump imposed tariffs on a global scale. Those tariffs were imposed on friend and foe alike. It seems as if President Trump is no respecter of nations. But how will this work out for the United States? Will these tariffs result in other nations drawing closer together that have had rather cold, and even not so cold, relations in the past? Will global tariffs result in trade wars? Were the events which are happening predicted by any in the Continuing Church of God? Is Europe drawing closer to China? Is Europe drawing closer to Latin and South America? With the exception of a few of America’s allies, is the net result of these tariffs a worldwide scramble to create new alliances and new trading partners to the exclusion of the United States? What will be the future result of these new alliances? Many of the nations that are now seeking new alliances were just recently America’s allies. They were her friends. Dr. Thiel brings to light the fate of America and her allies at the hands of her former friends, as revealed in the book of Lamentations. As we rapidly approach the end times listen in as Dr. Thiel brings to light world events. Then listen as he shines the light of Bible prophecy directly on the questions raised from these world events.

Here is a link to our video: Trade Wars – and the Winner will be …

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Trade Wars – and the Winner will be … US President Trump imposed tariffs on a global scale. Those tariffs were imposed on friend and foe alike. It seems as if President Trump is no respecter of nations. But how will this work out for the United States? Will these tariffs result in other nations drawing closer together that have had rather cold, and even not so cold, relations in the past? Will global tariffs result in trade wars? Were the events which are happening predicted by any in the Continuing Church of God? Is Europe drawing closer to China? Is Europe drawing closer to Latin and South America? With the exception of a few of America’s allies, is the net result of these tariffs a worldwide scramble to create new alliances and new trading partners to the exclusion of the United States? What will be the future result of these new alliances? Many of the nations that are now seeking new alliances were just recently America’s allies. They were her friends. Dr. Thiel brings to light the fate of America and her allies at the hands of her former friends, as revealed in the book of Lamentations. As we rapidly approach the end times listen in to this video as Dr. Thiel brings to light world events. Also listen as he shines the light of Bible prophecy directly on the questions raised from these world events.
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 are links to related videos: European history and the Bible, Europe In Prophecy, The End of European Babylon, and Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European? Here is a link to a related sermon in the Spanish language: El Fin de la Babilonia Europea.
25 items to prophetically watch in 2025 Much is happening. Dr. Thiel points to 25 items to watch (cf. Mark 13:37) in this article. Here is a link to a related sermon video: 25 Items to Watch in 2025.
Lost Tribes and Prophecies: What will happen to Australia, the British Isles, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and the United States of America? Where did those people come from? Can you totally rely on DNA? Do you really know what will happen to Europe and the English-speaking peoples? What about the peoples of Africa, Asia, South America, and the islands? This free online book provides scriptural, scientific, historical references, and commentary to address those matters. Here are links to related sermons: Lost tribes, the Bible, and DNA; Lost tribes, prophecies, and identifications; 11 Tribes, 144,000, and Multitudes; Israel, Jeremiah, Tea Tephi, and British Royalty; Gentile European Beast; Royal Succession, Samaria, and Prophecies; Asia, Islands, Latin America, Africa, and Armageddon;  When Will the End of the Age Come?Rise of the Prophesied King of the North; Christian Persecution from the Beast; WWIII and the Coming New World Order; and Woes, WWIV, and the Good News of the Kingdom of God.
Donald Trump in Prophecy Prophecy, Donald Trump? Are there prophecies that Donald Trump may fulfill?  Are there any prophecies that he has already helped fulfill?  Is a Donald Trump presidency proving to be apocalyptic?  Three related videos are available: Donald: ‘Trump of God’ or Apocalyptic? and Donald Trump’s Prophetic Presidency and  Donald Trump and Unintended Consequences.
Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?  Is Donald Trump going to save the USA or are there going to be many disastrous unintended consequences of his statements and policies? What will happen? This is a free eBook.

Church of God News in Spanish

Monday, December 29th, 2025

COGwriter

The Continuing Church of God continues to get additional materials translated into the Spanish and other languages.

Here are the latest news translations that we received:

Sermon: A Biblical Examination of Christmas
Sermón: Un análisis bíblico de la Navidad
Can the Great Tribulation Countdown Come in 2026? Countdown to Armageddon in 2026?
¿Puede la Gran Tribulación comenzar en 2026? ¿La cuenta regresiva para Armagedón comenzará en 2026?
AfD wants migrants returned and the European Union has agreed to make that easier for 7 countries
AfD quiere que los migrantes regresen y la Unión Europea ha acordado facilitarlo a siete países
The Closing Act, the Short Work, and YOU?
El acto de cierre, la corta obra, ¿y usted?
Minister for European Affairs of Denmark, Marie Bjerre, on the success of the Danish European presidency term
La ministra de Asuntos Europeos de Dinamarca, Marie Bjerre, sobre el éxito de la presidencia europea danesa
6-7th century seven lampstand menorah pendant found in Jerusalem; consistent with Revelation?
Menorá colgante de siete candelabros del siglo VI-VII hallada en Jerusalén; ¿es consistente con Apocalipsis?
Seventh-day Adventists and 25 reasons not to celebrate Christmas
Los Adventistas del Séptimo Día y 25 razones para no celebrar la Navidad
Marijuana is not as ‘medicinal’ as many hope, yet Donald Trump looking to reclassify it
La marihuana no es tan “medicinal” como muchos esperan, pero Donald Trump busca reclasificarla
Germany increasing military spending–does Donald Trump want to break up the European Union?
Alemania aumenta el gasto militar: ¿Donald Trump quiere dividir la Unión Europea?
Letter to the Brethren: December 25, 2025
Cart
a a los Hermanos: 25 de diciembre de 2025
Can you really believe the Bible?
¿Puede usted realmente creer en la Biblia?
Sermon: Building Golden Character
Sermón: Construyendo un carácter de oro
The CCOG does NOT consider Stephen Mumford was in the Church of God
La CCOG NO considera que Stephen Mumford estuviera en la Iglesia de Dios
Why would Hindus support a European Beast?
¿Por qué los hindúes apoyarían a una bestia europea?
Are Roman Catholics right as well as wrong about church history?
¿Tienen razón y están equivocados los católicos romanos sobre la historia de la Iglesia?
Although many are unhappy, you do not have to be
Aunque muchos son infelices, no es necesario que usted lo sea
A pre-tribulation rapture a must? No, it is not scriptural.
¿Es imprescindible un rapto previo a la tribulación? No, no es bíblico
Arguments by Roman Catholics and Protestants supporting Christmas ignore biblical admonitions against its obserance
Los argumentos de católicos romanos y protestantes que apoyan la Navidad ignoran las advertencias bíblicas contra su observancia

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, also called Castellano or Español.

We have also additional Spanish language videos on our CDLIDDSermones channel.

Our Spanish translator normally provides translated news items once or twice per month.

So, in addition to having magazines and books in the Spanish language, we also post news items in it as well.

This is another avenue we utilize to teach all that we can in accordance with Matthew 24:14, Mark 13:28-37, and Matthew 28:19-20.

The Continuing Church of God is reaching people around the world in multiple languages via the internet, printed literature, and human church leaders.

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? Two videos of related interest are available: Will Mexico Regain USA Territories? and Donald Trump and Mexico’s future. A sermon of related interest is available: Latin America in Prophecy.

CDLIDDSermones channel. This contains messages in the Spanish language.

CDLIDD.ES La Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios. This is the Spanish language website for the Continuing Church of God and has articles in español/castellano.

Bible News Prophecy International radio. This has links to our non-English language online radio station as well as materials in multiple languages, such as Spanish.

Continuing History of the Church of God This pdf booklet is a historical overview of the true Church of God and some of its main opponents from Acts 2 to the 21st century. Related sermon links include Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D. and Continuing History of the Church of God: 4th-16th Centuries and Continuing History of the Church of God: 17th-20th Centuries. The booklet is available in Spanish: Continuación de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios, German: Kontinuierliche Geschichte der Kirche Gottes, and Ekegusii Omogano Bw’ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete.

Where is the True Christian Church Today? This free online pdf booklet answers that question and includes 18 proofs, clues, and signs to identify the true vs. false Christian church. Plus 7 proofs, clues, and signs to help identify Laodicean churches. A related sermon is also available: Where is the True Christian Church? Here is a link to the booklet in the Spanish language: ¿Dónde está la verdadera Iglesia cristiana de hoy? Here is a link in the German language: WO IST DIE WAHRE CHRISTLICHE KIRCHE HEUTE? Here is a link in the French language: Où est la vraie Église Chrétienne aujourd’hui?

Statement of Beliefs of the Continuing Church of GodContend earnestly for the faith once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3, NKJV), “Let brotherly love (Philadelphia) continue” (Hebrews 13:1) ” & continuing stedfastly in the teaching of the apostles” (Acts 2:42 YLT). So, what does that really mean in terms of specific beliefs–the Statement gives answers? Here is a related link in Spanish/español: Declaración de las Doctrinas de la Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios. Here is a related link in Tagalog: Paglalahad ng Mga Paniniwala ng Patuloy na Iglesya ng Diyos. Here is a related link in Mandarin Chinese ~ç~íy^v„eYOv„OáNðXðf. Here is a related link in Kiswahili: KATIKA LUGHA YA KISWAHILI. Here is a related link in Dutch: Verklaring van geloofspunten van de Continuing Church of God. Here is a related link in Deutsche (German): Glaubenserklärung der Continuing Church of God. Here is a related link in Italiano: Dichiarazione del Credo della Continuing Church of God. Here is related link in the French language: Déclaration des croyances de L’Église Continue de Dieu. Here is a related link in the Chichewa language: ZIKHULUPIRIRO ZA MPINGO WA CONTINUING CHURCH OF GOD. Here is a link in Romanian: Declarația de credințe a continuării Bisericii lui Dumnezeu. Here is a link in Portuguese: Declaração de Crenças da Continuação da Igreja de Deus. Here is a link in Russian: Утверждение верований о продолжении Церкви Божьей. Here is a link to a related English-language sermon: Beliefs of the Continuing Church of God. Here is a link to a booklet titled: Statement of Beliefs of the Continuing Church of God.

Faith for those God has Called and Chosen What is faith? Can faith be increased? Are you saved by faith? What about works? Do Christians need to keep the Ten Commandments? What is the ‘faith chapter’? How do the just live by faith? Is faith one of the weightier matters of the law? How does faith come? Here is a link to a pdf. booklet titled Faith for Those God has Called and Chosen. Marque aquí para ver el pdf folleto: Fe para aquellos que Dios ha llamado y escogido.Here is a link to a related sermon titled: Faith for the Called and Chosen. Here is a link to shorter version of the written article in Mandarin Chinese 一篇关于信仰的小文章

CCOG.ORG Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God. To see how CCOG has done so far, here are links to two sermons Continuing Church of God (CCOG) first year anniversary: What has been accomplished? and The Continuing Church of God: Two Years of Proclamation. Here is a written link to a version of that sermon in the Spanish language: Aniversario del primer año de la Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios: ¿Qué se ha cumplido?

CCOG Animations channel. The Continuing Church of God has some animations to teach aspects of Christian beliefs.

Bible News Prophecy channel. Dr. Thiel has produced many YouTube videos for the BibleNewsProphecy channel. And you can find them there.

ContinuingCOG channel. Dr. Thiel has produced YouTube video sermons for this channel. Note: Since these are sermon-length, they can take a little longer to load than other YouTube videos. Here is a link to a short intro: ContinuingCOG Channel.

CCOGAfrica channel. This has messages from African pastors in African languages such as Kalenjin, Kiswahili, Embu, and Dholuo.

BibleNewsProphecy Podcast. This has audio-visual podcasts of the Bible News Prophecy channgel. It plays on i-Phones, i-Pads, and Windows devices that can play i-Tunes.

Bible News Prophecy online and European Gospel radio. This has an audio version of the Bible News Prophecy videos and other radio broadcasts. It is also available as a mobile app.

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

CCOGAFRICA.ORG This is a website targeted towards those in Africa.

CCOGCANADA.CA This is a website targeted towards those in Canada.

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.

CCOG.NZ This is a website targeted towards New Zealand and others with a British-descended background.

PNIND.PH Patuloy na Iglesya ng Diyos. This is the Philippines website Continuing Church of God. It has information in English and Tagalog.

CCOG.UK This is an English language website out of the United Kingdom.

Study the Bible Course Want to learn more about the Bible? This new course is for you! Here is a: link to Lesson 1: Why Study the Bible? Here is a: link to Lesson 2: Here’s good news…the MESSAGE sent from Heaven. Here is a: link to Lesson 3: Christ Will Stop World Suicide! Here is a: link to Lesson 4: How to Study the Bible. Here is a link to Study the Bible Course: Test 1, for Lessons 1-4. Here is a: link to Lesson 5: The Millennium. Here is a: link to Lesson 6: Utopia! It is also available in French (Leçon 1 En francés), Kiswahili (Somo 1 Katika Kiswahili), Mandarin Chinese (™–˜u : N-Vý), Tagalog (KURSO SA PAG-ARAL NG BIBLYA), and Spanish (Lección 1 En castellano).
Youth Bible Lessons We have scores of lessons for the very young through teenage to learn about the ways of God.

Why is it a big deal for Bulgaria to be adopting the Euro?

Monday, December 29th, 2025


(Pixabay photo)

COGwriter

The German news source, Deutsche Welle posted the following:

Bulgaria joins the euro: Why is it a big deal?

29 December 2025

Bulgaria is set to adopt the euro on January 1, 2026, making it the 21st member state of the eurozone.

Joining the currency club marks a major milestone for the Eastern European country, which entered the European Union in 2007.

Bulgaria’s accession leaves only six of the 27 EU nations outside the currency union: Sweden, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania and Denmark.

The euro is “not just a currency but a strategic choice” that strengthens Bulgaria’s position in Europe, Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said at a high-level conference in the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, in November.

At the same event, Christine Lagarde, president of the European Central Bank, said the euro adoption “bolsters Bulgaria’s economic foundations, builds its resilience against global shocks and amplifies its voice in euro area decision-making.” https://www.dw.com/en/bulgaria-joins-the-euro-why-is-it-a-big-deal/a-75125642

About 351 million people live in nations that have officially adopted the Euro. Bulgaria will add another 6.5 million to that.

The Euro is up 13-14% this year compared to the USA dollar.

Plus, others are looking at the Euro to be the USA dollar’s replacement:

Can the Euro Challenge the Dollar as the World’s Reserve Currency?

Some investors are turning to the euro as a hedge against US political and fiscal instability.

8 October 2025

  • The US Dollar Index lost 11% in 2025, and investors see continued declines ahead.
  • The dollar’s pullback offers a strategic opening for the euro, which remains the world’s second most-held reserve currency.
  • Eurobonds, digital euro, and global trade could be the key drivers that strengthen the global position of the euro.

For nearly eight decades, the US dollar has served as the backbone of global finance—backing oil trades, anchoring central-bank reserves, and providing a safe haven in times of crisis. As a growing number of nations are settling energy deals in other currencies and central banks from China to Brazil are reducing their dollar holdings, record US debt is testing investor confidence. Together, these shifts suggest that the greenback’s once-unquestioned dominance may be vulnerable. …

There are compelling reasons to believe the euro could play a larger international role, as the current global climate plays to the euro’s advantage, and as countries facing high tariff rates seek to diversify away from the dollar. …

If the European Union can maintain economic stability and advance long-discussed financial reforms, the euro could gradually expand its global footprint—though most economists caution that matching the dollar’s liquidity and political backing remains a long-term challenge rather than an imminent shift. …

Accelerating the development of the digital euro, which began in 2021, could be another way to increase demand for the euro. …

The EU isn’t waiting for these developments to play out. “The digital euro backed by the ECB would be free from insolvency risk, representing a competitive advantage over private stablecoins backed by the dollar,” says Wewel. Finally, the digital euro “would strengthen monetary and strategic autonomy and reduce dependence on non-European payment systems, such as US credit card companies or Big Tech wallets, while improving transaction transparency and supporting anti-money laundering efforts.” …

US President Donald Trump’s trade wars are weakening trade ties between the United States and its traditional allies and partners. Wewel believes that this represents “a unique opportunity for the euro area to strengthen its role and share in world trade.” https://global.morningstar.com/en-gb/markets/can-euro-challenge-dollar-worlds-reserve-currency

Note that China and Brazil, specifically, are also part of the block called BRICS+.

Bloomberg asserted:

There Is an Alternative to the Dollar — It’s the Euro

The single currency can improve its international standing without the greenback needing to lose its favored status.

 

Improvement in the euro’s international status doesn’t depend on the dollar losing its cachet as the world’s reserve currency.

President Donald Trump’s mission to radically restructure the world economy is catnip to dollar doomsters, but raises few doubts for staunch believers in the currency’s primacy in global finance. All conversations about threats to the greenback’s role as the world’s reserve currency tend toward either imagining a collapse of American financial dominance, or stubborn shouts of TINA — There Is No Alternative. Far more likely is a slow grinding evolution into a world where different countries and currencies hold spheres of influence, a shift from the recent unipolar era.

There are alternative monies in this world and the best of them is the euro. For Europe to enjoy some of the privileges that belonged to the US alone for decades, the euro doesn’t need to become the preeminent global currency. Nor must the dollar suffer a fall from grace as deep as sterling did over the first half of the 20th century as the British Empire unraveled. https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2025-06-05/reserve-currencies-euro-elevation-doesn-t-depend-on-dollar-demise

Euronews reported the following the following from earlier this year:

Albania, Moldova, Montenegro and North Macedonia join EU’s SEPA scheme

16 October 2025

Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Moldova have officially joined Europe’s financial transaction ecosystem SEPA, after 40 banks across the four EU membership hopefuls were accepted into the scheme, the European Commission revealed on Thursday.

By joining SEPA — short for the Single Euro Payments Area — the four countries and the EU will have access to quicker and cheaper financial transactions, potentially saving up to €500 million for individuals and businesses, the EU executive said.

The European Payments Council made this decision after the quartet entered SEPA’s geographical scope between November 2024 and March of this year, the Commission said in a statement.

In her speech at the EU-Western Balkans Investment Forum in Tirana on Monday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Albania’s membership in SEPA as a concrete example of financial integration with the EU.  …

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said the four countries’ accession to SEPA was the culmination of “tangible results” of continued efforts to integrate candidate countries.

“Our work does not stop here. We will continue to strive for the full operationalisation of SEPA schemes for our candidate countries, bringing their citizens and businesses even closer to the EU,” Kos added. …

The EU officially granted Moldova candidate status on 22 June 2022 and Chișinău has since enshrined its people’s desire to join the bloc in its constitution.

The six countries that make up the Western Balkans submitted their EU membership requests at different times, with North Macedonia being the first, applying in 2004 and gaining candidate status in 2005.

Brussels granted Montenegro candidate status in 2010 and then Serbia in 2012. Albania became a full-fledged candidate for membership in 2014.

Bosnia and Herzegovina was granted EU candidate country status in 2022 but has not opened negotiations with Brussels, while Kosovo remains the only potential candidate for membership in the bloc.

The EU has also released funding for Albania, Montenegro and North Macedonia as part of the bloc’s financing package for the Western Balkans, the EU executive said on Thursday, a decision recognising the “significant reforms” partners have made to better align with EU standards. https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/10/16/albania-moldova-montenegro-and-north-macedonia-join-eus-sepa-scheme

Part of the reason for countries not in the European Union to be part of SEPA is so that most of them can become part of the EU. Another reason is to push aside the dominance of the USA dollar.

Notice something about SEPA from Wikipedia:

The aim of SEPA as stated in 2008 was to improve the efficiency of cross-border payments and turn the previously fragmented national markets for euro payments into a single domestic one. …

SEPA does not cover payments in currencies other than the euro. (Single Euro Payments Area. Wikipedia, accessed 10/17/25)

ChatGPT listed the following related to an inquiry related to SEPA today:

SEPA Member Countries

🇪🇺 EU Countries (All 27)

These are obligated to participate in SEPA:

  1. Austria

  2. Belgium

  3. Bulgaria

  4. Croatia

  5. Cyprus

  6. Czech Republic

  7. Denmark

  8. Estonia

  9. Finland

  10. France

  11. Germany

  12. Greece

  13. Hungary

  14. Ireland

  15. Italy

  16. Latvia

  17. Lithuania

  18. Luxembourg

  19. Malta

  20. Netherlands

  21. Poland

  22. Portugal

  23. Romania

  24. Slovakia

  25. Slovenia

  26. Spain

  27. Sweden

💡 Note: Not all EU countries use the euro, but they must support SEPA payments in euros.

Non-EU SEPA Participants (9)

These countries voluntarily participate in SEPA, even though they are not in the EU:

  1. Andorra

  2. Iceland

  3. Liechtenstein

  4. Monaco

  5. Norway

  6. San Marino

  7. Switzerland

  8. United Kingdom (still in SEPA despite Brexit)

  9. Serbia (joined in May 2025)

Chat GPT did not include the four addition countries, which brings the total to 40. And, if one includes Vatican City, which basically uses the euro, then the total is 41 nations.

They represent 550 million people.

Consider something that the WCG published last century:

Momentous, historic events are transforming … Europe. But most Americans are “asleep at the switch” to what is happening. It’s time for a self-centered America to wake up – before her allies become her enemies. Envision the startling future of … Europe. A … union … surpassing both the United States and the Soviet Union in economic strength, possessing for the first time worldwide political power and influence. One news source recently called it an “enormous, physically powerful beast.” A new … Europe controlling perhaps half of all world trade, by exclusive arrangements with dozens of nations who produce raw materials. A “United States of Europe” possessing one single currency – a currency so strong that it will replace the U. S. dollar as the kingpin currency of world trade. (Hogberg G. EUROPE’S COMMON MARKET RISING WORLD COLOSSUS. Plain Truth, May 1971)

As it turns out, Europe does have its own currency–a currency that some see as the logical replacement for the US dollar for world trade–especially because of US sanctions, etc. As far as waking up before Europe becomes an enemy, Lamentations 1:1-2 is a prophecy that shows that allies will become enemies.

Most of the SEPA nations, if not all of them, used to primarily use the USA dollar for cross-border trade. Now, at least among themselves, the euro is increasing in use.

The euro could become a viable alternative to the US dollar as the global standard currency for international trade, according to European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde.

In a speech in Berlin, Germany, Lagarde said on Monday that the erratic economic policy of the United States has spooked global investors into limiting their exposure to the dollar in recent months.

“The ongoing changes create the opening for a ‘global euro moment’,” she said. …

Any enhanced role for the euro must coincide with greater military strength that can back up partnerships, Lagarde said. https://www.aljazeera.com/amp/economy/2025/5/26/ecbs-lagarde-says-euro-could-be-viable-alternative-to-us-dollar?

Thanks to the recent weakness of the US dollar the euro could “play a greater international role” as it gains importance in the global financial system. This view is being advanced by Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank (ECB). As Lagarde stated last week, the US dollar’s share of global currency reserves has fallen to 58 per cent, the lowest since 1994. In the current weakness of the dollar she sees as an opportunity for the euro. Bewildered by Donald Trump’s economic policies, both private investors and governments may be motivated to keep their reserves in euros. However, the Eurozone would still need, said Lagarde, a “solid and credible geopolitical foundation” for this enhanced role – a foundation cemented with strong military capabilities. She went on to say that the European Union would finally have to create the long-promised single capital market and gain greater effectiveness by widening the scope of majority decision-making. Parallel to Lagarde’s ambitious plans for Europe’s economy, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is advocating “European independence” from the United States as the next “major European project”. This, again, would mean “a leading role in the global economy of tomorrow”. 06/02/25 https://www.german-foreign-policy.com/en/news/detail/9995?

In many ways, Donald Trump has made Europe, and its currency, more attractive on the world scene.

Tariffs and sanctions and the threat of more tariffs and sanctions are causing more nations to turn away from the USA and look more towards each other.

BRICS has expanded to 20 countries – 10 members and 10 partners – after adding Vietnam. BRICS+ now makes up 44% of world GDP (PPP) and 56% of the global population. …

The BRICS 20 have a combined population of 4.45 billion, out of a global population of 8.01 billion in 2025, based on IMF data.

This means that BRICS+ represents 55.61% of the world population. https://geopoliticaleconomy.com/2025/07/04/brics-expansion-population-gdp-vietnam/

Adding the 550 million in SEPA, that means 5 billion people or 62.4% of the world’s population. The former (again current) President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, even claimed that eliminating the U.S. dollar’s reserve currency status was one of the reasons that the BRICS alliance (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) was formed in the first place! The BRICS+ alliance that has long wanted to stop using the US dollar for cross-border trade.

Furthermore, well before BRICS formed, the Europeans have long planned and wanted the euro to push the US dollar’s reserve currency status aside.

Related to the US dollar and BRICS, the Continuing Church of God (CCOG) put together the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel:

14:31

BRICS Push Aside USA Dollar

The BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) have as one of their founding goals, to eliminate the need to use USA dollars in cross-border trade. Six additional nations have been invited to join BRICS in 2024, and India reports that six more are also being looked at. The BRICS nations have already begun to drop the USA dollar for some cross-border trading with Russia and China indicating that they had almost done so completely in late 2023. What will happen to the economy and value of the USA dollar if more and more nations stop using it as a primary reserve and trading currency? What about hyperinflation? Does the Bible prophesy destruction for a highly indented nation in the end time? Is the USA the most indebted nation of all time? What about the intent and use of the Euro? Will Europe and Asia cooperate to eliminate the USA and its British-descended allies?

Here is a link to our video: BRICS Push Aside USA Dollar.

Now, Donald Trump did threaten the BRICS alliance to not come up with a unified currency to bypass the US dollar.

Related to some of that, last Fall I wrote:

Neither a possible Trump-Vance or Harris-Walz Administration has proposed anything that would truly stop de-dollarization. Actually threats against nations involved, by Donald Trump … will tend to increase the speed of de-dollarization. (Thiel B. MW: Can America Survive Global De-Dollarization? COGwriter: No! COGwriter, October 4, 2024)

Well, that is happening. There will be many unintended consequences of Donald Trump’s statements and policies.

Notice also number 12 of my 25 items to prophetically watch in 2025 which I posted in 2024:

12. US Dollar Dominance will Decrease

Consider the following curse from the Book of Leviticus:

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

While the above undoubtedly has military & economic possibilities, consider that the US dollar is the pride of the USA’s power.

It is backed by nothing.

So, it is a prideful thing–plus it does project US power around the world.

Debt, trade, weather, morality, leadership, sanctions, and other issues have given various nations motivations to work to dethrone the US dollar as the world’s primary trade and reserve currency.

The economy of the USA has been financed, to a signficant degree, by foreigners willing to provide goods to the USA on credit as well as the USA profiting from much of the rest of the world’s international trade that is dollar-based.

When the US dollar ceases to be the world’s primary reserve currency, this will foster massive inflation.

Having the world’s premier reserve currency essentially brings benefits to the USA that have included making money on international trades that the USA otherwise would not be involved in, less inflation, a subsized economy, lower borrowing cost, a more attractive investment market, and getting many goods from foreign lands at less cost than otherwise.

This status for the USA will not continue.

What happens to the US economy if the Dollar is no longer the reserve currency of the world?

If US T-bills lose their attraction as reserve investments … it would get harder for the Treasury to sell more of them, requiring higher interest rates to be paid and potentially forcing austerity measures on the US government or triggering classic deficit spending inflation (“printing money” to pay for government, this doesn’t happen now because the deficit is financed through sales of those bonds at extremely low interest rates).

If foreign central banks and governments start exchanging their US dollars for some other currency or currencies, then the value of the dollar in international trade drops, it becomes more expensive to buy imported goods in the US and more profitable to sell exported goods from the US. This could have all kinds of political and social effects, especially if the shift was rapid, severe, and unexpected. https://www.quora.com/What-happens-to-the-US-economy-if-the-Dollar-is-no-longer-the-reserve-currency-of-the-world

The above is warning about inflation, higher interest rates, and troubles borrowing. The USA is the most highly indebted nation of all time. The USA has been essentially on a borrowing binge the last four decades and its economy is now dependent upon borrowing. The Bible paints an even worse scenario that in the time of the end (Habakkuk 2:2-3) the highly indebted will be taken over (Habakkuk 2:2:6-8) and destroyed (Daniel 11:39; USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses).

The time will come when the US dollar is dethroned and this will inflict great pain, though not the “greatest pain” that the North Koreans want, on the USA. But shortly after the US dollar becomes close to worthless, the great tribulation (Matthew 24:21) will come and the USA will be no more (watch Do these 7 prophesies point to the end of the USA?).

The Europeans, BRICS’s nations, Iran, Venezuela, North Korea, and others want to dethrone the USA dollar. …

The USA has been gambling with its currency for many years through its policies and using it as a weapon.

Its leaders basically think that they can continue to get away with it.

But one day they will not (cf. Habakkuk 2:6-8).

The BRICS alliance nations want to ditch the US dollar. They are looking at using more of their national currencies, gold, and combinations thereof to do so.

What about Europe?

Well, Europe has NOT produced as many trillions of Euros of debt, at least not yet, that the USA has. Plus, several of the nations there have been accumulating and/or repatriating gold.

Understand that the Bible shows that the time will come when Europe will prosper mightily and be involved with gold (cf. Revelation 18).

Now, consider a story, I have reported here before:

There once was a movie that had two men camping outdoors. Suddenly, one man yells, “Run, a bear!” The other man yells back, “You can’t outrun a bear.” The first man responded with, “True, but all I have to do is to outrun you.”

The implication is that the first man only needed to be better runner than the second man, which presumably the bear would consider to be weaker, and then catch and destroy. This would, supposedly, allow the first man to survive.

From an economic perspective, the story basically is that the debt and economic situation in Europe does not need to be perfect, only perceived to better (or at least similar) than that of the USA to someday surpass it.

Dethroning the US dollar will cause massive economic problems for the USA. Much more than almost anyone believes. The standard of living in the USA has been raised/subsidized for years because of the status of the US dollar. That status is weakening. This will ultimately severely hurt the USA.

USA debt rose by over $2 trillion in 2025. Nations see this.

The EU is increasing its financial footprint.

It wants all the Balkan states to be part of it–and moves such as more of them in SEPA are setting that stage.

Now, it still will take time for the US dollar to be fully dethroned. Gold and the Europeans will be involved. Many seem to forget that one of the purposes of the euro was to reduce the need to trade in US dollars in Europe. That has resulted in relatively little cross-border trade in US dollars across Europe.

Do not think that Europe will not one day support the complete toppling of the US dollar as well as the US itself (cf. Daniel 11:39).

To summarize:

  • The Euro is up 13-14% this year compared to the USA dollar, hence more are seeing it as a better alternative.
  • US debt policies are weakening the value of the USA dollar.
  • Trump Administration sanction, tariff, and trade policies are turning nations away from the USA dollar.
  • The BRICS group was partially formed to bypass the USA dollar.
  • With 41 nations in SEPA, plus Bulgaria adopting the Euro, the tide is turning towards the Euro.
  • The rise of Europe as the end time Babylonian trade power is prophesied in the Bible.
  • This will not and well for the USA or its dollar.

After the US dollar is gone, the Bible shows that Europe will dominate international trade and finance, and this will involve gold (cf. Daniel 11:37-43; Revelation 18). It will also make deals with the BRICS+ nations–some of which European leaders are already trying to make.

We also have the following related video:

14:55

Euro vs Dollar: And the winner is?

In October 2025, the European Payments Council of the European Union announced that four more nations were entering into Single Euro Payments Area, also known as SEPA. This brings the total to 41 nations, representing 550 million people that are in SEPA. SEPA does not cover payments in currencies other than the euro, hence this is a euro promoting group. In 2025, the euro has gained 12-13% vs. the US dollar which has declined. Factors such as US financial policies, tariffs, debt, Donald Trump, and threats have been cited as factors. While the euro can drop in value, many are wondering if the euro will replace the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency? Bloomberg has asserted, “There Is an Alternative to the Dollar — It’s the Euro.” In addition to SEPA, nations in the BRICS+ alliance are also pushing to reduce, and eliminate, the use of the US dollar in cross-border trade–BRICS+ represents 4.45 billion people–between BRICS+ and SEPA, that is about a total of 5 billion people or 62.4% of the world’s population, that are in organizations that are working to reduce use of the US dollar. Plus there are other nations such as Iran, Venezuela, and North Korea, who want to do that as well. Back in 1971, the old ‘Plain Truth’ magazine warned, “A ‘United States of Europe’ possessing one single currency – a currency so strong that it will replace the U. S. dollar as the kingpin currency of world trade.” Europe did come up with its own currency and we are seeing it increasingly used for cross-border trade. The massively negative impact on the US economy for its dollar to be dethroned as the world’s primary reserve and trading currency would be real. Does this align with biblical prophecies? Dr. Thiel, himself, warned in December 2024, that in 2025, “US Dollar Dominance will Decrease,” and it has. In this video, Steve Dupuie and Dr. Thiel discuss these matters as well possibly when the US dollar may be dethroned and that a European currency, with some type of at least implied gold backing, may replace it.

Here is a link to our video: Euro vs Dollar: And the winner is?

The end of US dollar dominance is coming. 41 nations in SEPA is another block (like BRICS+) that is working to bypass the USA dollar.

There are many unintended consequences of Donald Trump’s statements and policies.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

25 items to prophetically watch in 2025 Much is happening. Dr. Thiel points to 25 items to watch (cf. Mark 13:37) in this article. Here is a link to a related sermon video: 25 Items to Watch in 2025.
Lost Tribes and Prophecies: What will happen to Australia, the British Isles, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and the United States of America? Where did those people come from? Can you totally rely on DNA? What about other peoples? Do you really know what will happen to Europe and the English-speaking peoples? What about Africa, Asia, South America, and the Islands? This free online book provides scriptural, scientific, historical references, and commentary to address those matters. Here are links to related sermons: Lost tribes, the Bible, and DNA; Lost tribes, prophecies, and identifications; 11 Tribes, 144,000, and Multitudes; Israel, Jeremiah, Tea Tephi, and British Royalty; Gentile European Beast; Royal Succession, Samaria, and Prophecies; Asia, Islands, Latin America, Africa, and Armageddon;  When Will the End of the Age Come?Rise of the Prophesied King of the North; Christian Persecution from the Beast; WWIII and the Coming New World Order; and Woes, WWIV, and the Good News of the Kingdom of God.
Spiritual Samaritans: Old and New Who were the Samaritans? Do the represent true Christianity or something else? Here is a link to a related sermon: USA in Prophecy: Samaria.
The End of US Dollar Dominance Is the USA losing its economic status? What about the petro-gold-yuan? A related video is also available: US Dollar being challenged by Gold-Petro-Yuan.
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 and silver? Two videos of related interest may be: Germany, Gold, and the US Dollar and Silver, Science, and Scripture.
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 are links to related videos: European history and the BibleEurope In ProphecyThe End of European Babylon, and Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?
Donald Trump in Prophecy Prophecy, Donald Trump? Are there prophecies that Donald Trump may fulfill?  Are there any prophecies that he has already helped fulfill?  Is a Donald Trump presidency proving to be apocalyptic?  Three related videos are available: Donald: ‘Trump of God’ or Apocalyptic? and Donald Trump’s Prophetic Presidency and  Donald Trump and Unintended Consequences.
Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?  Is Donald Trump going to save the USA or are there going to be many disastrous unintended consequences of his statements and policies? What will happen? This is a free eBook.

The Seven Churches of Revelation 1, 2, 3

Monday, December 29th, 2025


COGwriter at site of “Church of the Apocalypse/Revelation” on Patmos in 2008

COGwriter

Seven churches are mentioned in Revelation 1, with messages given to them in the next two chapters.

Earlier this year, two CCOG members from New Zealand visited most of the areas that the seven churches were in. They sent in video recordings which ended up in the 2025 Behind the Work presentation:

What has the Continuing Church of God been doing in 2025? Could it have any relationship to the seven churches of Revelation? Could those seven churches represent the church age? This video includes clips of ancient structures you can still see in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea (with Thyatira mentioned). Dr. Thiel gave some of those messages as well as warnings Jesus gave Church of God Christians. Certain doctrines held through the ages as well as early apostolic succession was discussed. The need for the end time fulfillment of Matthew 24:14 proclaiming the gospel to the world as a witness, as well as how the CCOG is accomplishing that was discussed including radio, online videos, podcasts, printed literature, and personal visits. Visits to Rwanda, the Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Burundi, Russia, Thailand, South Sudan, and Brazil were mentioned. Video clips from different countries as well as some podcast promotional clips were also included in this video. How our leader in India came with us was also presented. Prophecies related to restoring truths in the end times was read and how the CCOG has been fulfilling them was discussed. Dr. Thiel asks Christians if they are supporting the work or holding it up? He encourages Christians to support the Philadelphian remnant church, the Continuing Church of God.

Here is a link to the sermon: Behind the Work 2025 Eras and the Philadelphian Reach.

That said, my wife Joyce and I have been able to visit the area of each of those seven as well as the Island of Patmos, where John was given the Revelation.

Tracing the history of the Christian church through the churches of Revelation 2 & 3 gives strong indications of who the descendants of the true church are today. This tracing provides information that demonstrates that the true Church of God (COG) is neither Protestant nor Eastern Orthodox nor Roman Catholic, but is truly the church that has continued with the same beliefs as the original apostles (see also Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church).

The Continuing Church of God and certain others claiming to be in the Church of God trace their history from the Book of Acts and through the church eras of Revelation 2 & 3.

Yet, the prevailing attitude among many in the sabbatarian Churches of God (COGs) seems to be that this is not a particularly important issue, and some who used to teach it, teach against it. Is this correct or do churches of Revelation 2 & 3 matter?

Now everyone truly part of the COG would agree that the Churches of Revelation 2 & 3 must to some degree matter (as do serious professing Christian people outside the COGs). But while many will point out that the term “church era” is not mentioned in the Bible, they often forget to mention that the Church will have factions (1 Corinthians 11:19), hence it will not entirely be uniform. Many now seem to teach that the messages to the seven churches were only for the time that John penned the Book of Revelation. And even more appear to act like the messages to the Churches in Revelation do not matter much.

Many who were once part of the old Worldwide Church of God (WCG) are puzzled as to why there are so many groups that split off from WCG, yet if they understood the messages to the “Church in Philadelphia” (Revelation 3:7) and the “Church of the Laodiceans” (Revelation 3:13), they would better understand–and hopefully make the appropriate changes with their life and their fellowship. Those who accept the idea of ‘church eras’ have always taught that in the end (which would now be the 21st century), the Laodiceans would vastly outnumber the remaining Philadelphians. That is part of why there are so many claimed COG groups today.

Here is something that the late Herbert W. Armstrong taught about the churches of Revelation:

Now, here we find, while it’s pictured as seven churches, it’s really seven stages of the one True Church.., in seven successive times. Also, you’ll find every one of the seven conditions in the church at all times but, in the early years, the Ephesus condition dominated and the tail end of it the Laodicean condition is to dominate on the earth and there you are. (Armstrong HW. History of the True Church – Part 4. Radio broadcast, transcript)

And Laodicea does dominate numerically today.

As far as the Philadelphians and the fate of the Laodiceans goes, the late evangelist Leroy Neff wrote this when he was part of the old Radio Church of God:

The Church of Philadelphia Compared with Laodicea

Let’s compare this parable and the Church of Laodicea with the Church of Philadelphia. We have proved through history and through God’s Word that this work, the Radio Church of God, is the “Philadelphia Era” of the Church.

Notice now the differences. Revelation 3:7-13: “And to the angel of the Church in Philadelphia write these things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that OPENETH, and no man SHUTTETH; and SHUTTETH and no man openeth.” The great door that God has opened to this work is the facility to go into all the world and preach the gospel; the door of radio, the door of the printing press, plus many other such doors. God has set before us an open door and no MAN can shut it. God can shut it, and He will when the work is finished and the Philadelphia Church goes to a place of safety.

“I know thy works: Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name” (verse 8). Notice that this Church has works. It has works of ZEAL and of REPENTANCE. This Church has only a little strength.

But, by contrast, the Church of Laodicea believes that IT is increased with goods and has a great deal of strength. Philadelphia has little strength to do this great work that God has given it to do. God has opened the door, and yet look how insignificant, how weak, how little strength we as a Church have to do that work. How much we lack in every way, and yet God has opened the door and has given us certain vital, supernatural, spiritual gifts. Very often we lack enough money to pay the radio bills and other expenses. WE ARE FEW IN NUMBER, while many other eras of the Church of God numbered in the hundreds of thousands. We indeed have little strength. And yet, look at the great power that God has placed before us.

Let’s bring it down to the individual level even though it is referring primarily to the Church as a whole. Most of us as individuals realize how little strength we really have, how we lack in some of the spiritual gifts. God has given the Church a good measure of wisdom and of knowledge and faith. He has given us many other gifts but we still lack in many things, but we also realize it. Our Church has not denied the name of God.

THIS Church is going to be protected from the hour of temptation, or of trial and tribulation which will come upon all the world (Rev. 3:16). But the Church of Laodicea must go through severe tribulation…

The Church of Laodicea is to be lukewarm, lacking in zeal and repentance.The Laodicean Church is not going to be worthy to escape to a place of safety. When it is too late, they will find that the Church of Philadelphia has gone to safety. Only two choices remain for each person left. They will be tried by the fire of men, and may lose their lives in severe tortures; or if they recant, they will lose their lives in the final gehenna fire. In either case, they will be tried in the fire. If they are tried by the fire of men and still overcome, they will be given eternal life. If they fail this, the final GEHENNA FIRE with everlasting destruction will be their doom. Judging from the parable of the ten virgins, if you are found in the Church of Laodicea, YOU PROBABLY DON’T KNOW IT. You may think you are in the Church that will go to safety. When you find out it will be too late. (Neff L. What Is the “LAODICEAN CHURCH”? Good News August 1959 Vol. VIII, Number 8.)

Many do not truly believe that today. As a result, the non-Philadelphian groups have improperly changed doctrines, so much so in the prophetic region, that most will not know when the Great Tribulation will begin until it is too late (for a brief prophetic listing of such errors, see Is there a need for a prophet now?).

Now, one of the many unique aspects of the Book of Revelation is that it is the only book of the Bible with this type of blessing, “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near” (1:3). Therefore it is very important to read and try to keep what is written in it.

Yet most, once part of the COG, despite keeping the commandments and having the testimony of Jesus (Revelation 12:17), will not truly do so (Revelation 3:14-22). What about you?

For more information, please check out the following:

The Seven Church Eras of Revelation A summary of the history of the Christian church’s history is included in chapters 2 & 3 of the Book of Revelation. Do you know what happened to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, and Philadelphia? What are some signs of Laodicea? Who is keeping the word of God and who is holding to traditions of men above the Bible? This is a video.
Old Testament Church Eras Are there seven church eras in the Old Testament? Do they parallel those in Revelation 2 &3?
The Churches of Revelation 2 & 3
from 31 A.D. to present: information on all of the seven churches of Revelation 2 & 3. There is also a YouTube video: The Seven Church Eras of Revelation. There is also a version in the Spanish language: Las Siete Iglesias de Apocalipsis 2 & 3.
Attending the Church of Choice This article discusses whose choice is important to worship God; should you attend the church of your choice or the church of God’s choice?
Why is there a Philadelphian remnant of the true Christian Church of God? Did the old Worldwide Church of God essentially predict a Philadelphian remnant? Is a Philadelphian remnant needed for end-time prophecies to be fulfilled? Here is a link to a related sermon: The Philadelphia Remnant.
1. The Ephesus Church Era was predominant from 31 A.D. to circa 135 A.D. The Church of James, Peter, Paul, and John, etc. Here is a link to a related video sermon: Ephesus Church Era.
2. The Smyrna Church Era was predominant circa 135 A.D. to circa 450 A.D. The Church led by Polycarp, Melito, Polycrates, etc. Here is a link to a related video sermon: The Smyrna Church Era.
3. The Pergamos Church Era was predominant circa 450 A.D. to circa 1050 A.D. An especially persecuted Church. Here is a link to a related sermon video: Pergamos Era and the Antichrist.
4. The Thyatira Church Era was predominant circa 1050 A.D. to circa 1600 A.D. The Church during the Inquisition. It claimed succession from the apostles. Here is a link toa related sermon: Thyatira, Succession, and Jezebel.
5. The Sardis Church Era was predominant circa 1600 A.D. to circa 1933 A.D. Discusses some early history of the Seventh Day Baptists, Seventh-day Adventists, CG7-Salem, Jerusalem 7DCG, and COG-7th Day-Denver. Here are two historical sermons: Sardis Church Era: Beginnings, Doctrines, and Leaders and Sardis: SDBs, SDAs, & CG7s.
6. The Philadelphia Church Era and Remnant Though the era was predominant circa 1933 A.D. to 1986 A.D., but some few faithful are still in it as a remnant has continued. The old Radio Church of God and old Worldwide Church of God were part of the era, and now the remnant of that era is basically the most faithful in the Church of God, like who hold to the beliefs and practices of the Continuing Church of God. Here is a link to a related sermon: Philadelphia Church Era: History & Teachings.
7. The Laodicean Church Era has been predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present.–and most end time Christians are part of it. The Laodiceans are non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG or its offshoots.  They do not properly understand the work or biblical prophecies and will face the Great Tribulation if they do not repent. One video of related interest is 50+ Laodicean Prophetic Errors. See also Do You Hold to Any of These Laodicean Prophetic Errors?
Continuing History of the Church of God This pdf booklet is a historical overview of the true Church of God and some of its main opponents from Acts 2 to the 21st century. Related sermon links include Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D. and Continuing History of the Church of God: 4th-16th Centuries and Continuing History of the Church of God: 17th-20th Centuries. The booklet is available in Spanish: Continuación de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios, German: Kontinuierliche Geschichte der Kirche Gottes, French: L Histoire Continue de l Église de Dieu and Ekegusii Omogano Bw’ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete.
Unity: Which COG for You? Why so many groups? Why is there lack of unity in the Churches of God? Has it always been this way? What can/should be done about it? Here is a related article in the Spanish language: Unidad: ¿Cuál Iglesia de Dios para usted?
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. There is also a YouTube sermon on the subject titled Church of God or Church of Rome: What Do Catholic Scholars Admit About Early Church History?
Nazarene Christianity: Were the Original Christians Nazarenes? Who were the Nazarene Christians? What did they believe? Should 21st century Christians be modern Nazarenes? Is there a group that exists now that traces its history through the Nazarenes and holds the same beliefs today? Here is a link to a related video sermon Nazarene Christians: Were the early Christians “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! Here is a link to a sermon: Claims of Apostolic Succession. Here is a related article in the Spanish language La sucesión apostólica. ¿Ocurrió en Roma, Alejandría, Constantinopla, Antioquía, Jerusalén o Asia Menor?
Early Church History: Who Were the Two Major Groups that 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? A related sermon is also available Christianity: Two groups.
Where is the True Christian Church Today? This free online pdf booklet answers that question and includes 18 proofs, clues, and signs to identify the true vs. false Christian church. Plus 7 proofs, clues, and signs to help identify Laodicean churches. A related sermon is also available: Where is the True Christian Church? Here is a link to the booklet in the Spanish language: ¿Dónde está la verdadera Iglesia cristiana de hoy? Here is a link in the German language: WO IST DIE WAHRE CHRISTLICHE KIRCHE HEUTE?
Laying on of Hands Succession and List Does the Church of God have laying on of hands succession? Does the Continuing Church of God have a list of leaders from the time of the apostles? Here is a link to a related sermon: Apostolic Laying on of Hands Succession.
Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church: Could a remnant group have continuing apostolic succession? Did the original “catholic church” have doctrines held by the Continuing Church of God? Did Church of God leaders uses the term “catholic church” to ever describe the church they were part of? Here are links to related sermons: Original Catholic Church of God?, Original Catholic Doctrine: Creed, Liturgy, Baptism, Passover, What Type of Catholic was Polycarp of Smyrna?, Tradition, Holy Days, Salvation, Dress, & Celibacy, Early Heresies and Heretics, Doctrines: 3 Days, Abortion, Ecumenism, Meats, Tithes, Crosses, Destiny, and more, Saturday or Sunday?, The Godhead, Apostolic Laying on of Hands Succession, Church in the Wilderness Apostolic Succession List, Holy Mother Church and Heresies, and Lying Wonders and Original Beliefs. Here is a link to that book in the Spanish language: Creencias de la iglesia Católica original.
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?