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An alternative news compiler had a link to the following:

MESSIAH In Both Testaments

By FRED JOHN MELDAU
ABSOLUTE PROOF OF:
The Fact of God
The Deity of Christ
The Truth of Christianity
The Inspiration of the Bible …

$1,000 OFFERED
THE BIBLE has no competitor. It is the only Book in the world that contains genuine prophecy. CHRIST has no competitor. He is the only One in the history of the world whose life was pre-written and who came down from Heaven to be the Saviour of mankind. Christianity is based on these facts: the Bible is the inspired Word of God; Christ is the unique Son of God. We are offering a thousand dollars reward to anyone who (1) Can show that there is another book in the world, beside the Bible, that has genuine prophecy about a coming Messiah; (2) Can produce any “Christ,” living or dead, (other than Jesus of Nazareth), who can fulfill even half of the many predictions about the true Messiah as given in the Bible and as set forth in this book. …

With no variations or aberrations between the Old Testament predictions of the coming Messiah and the New Testament fulfillment in Jesus of Nazareth, one instinctively leaps to the conclusion that “the Hand that drew the Image in prophecy moulded the Portrait in history”; and the inevitable conclusion to this miracle is fourfold:

(1) It proves that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, for unaided man is neither capable of writing nor fulfilling such a literary wonder.

(2) It proves that the God of the Bible, the only One who knows the end from the beginning, and who alone has the power to fulfill all His word, is the true and living God.

(3) It demonstrates that the God of the Bible is both all-knowing to be able to foretell the future entwined around numberless men who are free moral agents, and all-powerful, to be able to bring to pass a perfect fulfillment of His word in the midst of widespread unbelief, ignorance and rebellion on the part of men.

(4) It demonstrates that the Person, Jesus of Nazareth, who so perfectly and completely fulfilled all the Old Testament predictions is indeed the Messiah, the Saviour of the world, the Son of the Living God. …

Fulfilled Prophecy Is Unique to the Bible

The fact of fulfilled prophecy is found in the Bible alone; hence, it presents proof of Divine inspiration that is positive, conclusive, overwhelming. Here is the argument in brief: no man, unaided by Divine inspiration, foreknows the future, for it is an impenetrable wall, a true “iron curtain,” to all mankind. Only an almighty and an allknowing God can in-fallibly predict the future. If then one can find true prophecy (as one does in the Bible), with definite fulfillment, with sufficient time intervening between the prediction and the fulfillment, and with explicit details in the prediction to assure that the prophecies are not clever guesses, then the case is perfect and unanswerable. Remember, there were 400 years between the last of the Messianic predictions of the Old Testament and their fulfillment in the Christ of the Gospels.3 Many prophecies are of course much older than 400 B. C. During the period of 1100 years, from the age of Moses (1500 B.C.) to that of Malachi (400 B.C.), a succession of prophets arose, Messianic prediction took form, and all of them testified of the Messiah who was to come.

So minute and so voluminous are these Old Testament pre-dictions and so complete is their fulfillment in the New Testament, that Dr. A. T. Pierson says, “There would be no honest infidel in the world were Messianic prophecy studied . . . nor would there be any doubting disciples if this fact of prediction and fulfillment were fully understood.” “And,” he continues, “the sad fact is, we have yet to meet the first honest skeptic or critic who has carefully studied the prophecies which center in Christ” (Many Infallible Proofs).

“Prophecy” Is God’s Own Method of Proving His Truth

The teachings of the Bible are so peculiar and different from all other religions, … In challenging the false gods of Isaiah’s time, the true God said: “Produce your cause . . . bring forth your strong reasons . . .show us what shall happen . . . declare us things for to come. Show us things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that ye are gods” (Isa.41: 21-23).

There are false faiths like Mohammedanism and Buddhism that have tried to prop up their claims on pretended miracles, but neither these, nor any other religion in the history of the world, except the Bible, have ever ventured to frame prophecies.

It is the peculiar “glory” of the Almighty, the all-knowing God, who is “the Lord, the Creator” (Isa. 40:28) to “declare new things before they spring forth” (Isa. 42:8-9) and that glory He will not share with another (Isa. 42:8). The true God alone foreknows and foretells the future. And He has chosen to confine his foretelling to the pages of Scripture.” 5Though there are many other subjects of Divine Prophecy in the Bible—such as the Jews, the Gentile nations that surrounded Israel, ancient cities, the Church, the last days, etc., the divine perfections of foreknowledge and fulfillment can be seen better in the realm of prophecies concerning Christ than in any other sphere.

Here is the clear statement that God alone, in the Bible alone, gave true prophecies: “I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like Me, DECLARING THE END FROM THE BEGINNING, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, MY COUNSEL SHALL STAND AND I WILL DO ALL MY PLEASURE” (Isa. 45:9, 10). (The appeal by God that He alone can give and fulfill prophecy, and that it is to be found alone in the Bible, is found in many places in the Bible. See2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:19-21; Deuteronomy 18:21, 22; Isaiah 41:21-23; Jeremiah 28:9; John 13:19, etc.) …

Since the Bible tells us that man’s eternal destiny depends on trusting Christ—”he that believeth on the SON hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him” (John 3:36)—it should be our greatest desire to tell others these facts, and let them know that “there is none other Name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12).

“THESE ARE WRITTEN THAT YE MIGHT BELIEVE THAT JESUS IS THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD: AND THAT BELIEVING YE MIGHTHAVE LIFE (ETERNAL LIFE) THROUGH HIS NAME” (John 20:31). accessed 03/14/21 http://www.freegraceresources.org/messiahinbothtestaments.pdf

Yes, Jesus is the anointed, the Christ, the prophesied Messiah. No matter how much money is offered, people cannot prove that Jesus was not the Messiah. Oh yes, there have been attempts by so-called scholars to deny Jesus’ existence. And yes, non-believing Jews have come up with many arguments to reason around the scriptures. But the reality is that Jesus was the prophesied Messiah and is the prophesied Saviour.

Notice something from the free book Proof Jesus is the Messiah:

Various ones have discounted the Old Testament and/or claimed that the writers of the New Testament deliberately wrote items to make it look like Jesus fulfilled various prophecies, hence they claim that there was nothing supernatural about Jesus.

Those who think that are deceiving themselves as they are ignoring many proofs.

As it turns out, Jesus made many predictions that came to pass.

1. Consider the following:

⁶ And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, ⁷ a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. ⁸ But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? ⁹ For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.”

¹⁰ But when Jesus was aware of it, He said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. ¹¹ For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. ¹² For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial. ¹³ Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.” (Matthew 26:6-13)

And that story has been told throughout history, and is being told also in this book.

2. Jesus, Himself, foretold that many false leaders would rise up and claim Him:

⁵ For many will come in My name, saying, “I am the Christ,” and will deceive many. (Matthew 24:5)

That certainly has happened throughout history. There were early heretics and apostates, and this has continued throughout the entire church age (documented details are in the free online book, Continuing History of the Church of God, available at www.ccog.org).

3. Jesus warned about persecutions of His followers:

² They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service. (John 16:2)

That happened as we can see in the Book of Acts (Acts 7:59-60; Acts 8:1; 13:50). Plus, outside the Bible, the Jewish Talmud advocated putting Christians out (e.g. Berakhot 29a). Also, there are records of murderous persecutions throughout history, starting no later than the reign of the Roman Emperor Nero (e.g. Tacitus, Annals of Imperial Rome, xv.44).

4. Jesus warned about going before councils and being scourged:

¹⁷ But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. (Matthew 10:17)

This happened to many, if not all, of the original apostles (Acts 5:29, 40-41) and the Apostle Paul (Acts 16:20-37). We have also seen this type of persecution throughout history (e.g. The Martyrdom of Polycarp). Plus, there was a major Jewish persecution of those who professed Christ in 524 AD (Dysch M. Historians back BBC over Jewish massacre claim. Jewish Chronicle, May 2009).

5. Notice also the following that Jesus declared:

¹⁸ You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. (Matthew 10:18)

This happened to the Apostle Paul in the 1^st century (Acts 25:23-26:23) as well as the late Pastor-General of the old Worldwide Church of God, Herbert W. Armstrong, in the 20^th century (though he was not forcefully brought to meet world leaders, he did meet with them and provide testimony to the Gentiles).

6. Jesus also said people would claim to prophesy and cast out demons in His name:

²² Many will say to Me in that day, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?” ²³ And then I will declare to them, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!” (Matthew 7:22-23)

While the “in that day” is not yet here, throughout history various false ones have claimed to cast out demons in Jesus’ name and to prophesying in His name, as well as to claim various wonders in His name.

7. Jesus predicted that the Christian church would exist and that death (called “Hades” below) would not eliminate it:

¹⁸ … I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18)

Since the start of the New Testament church in Acts chapter 2 to present, the Christian church has existed and has not been eliminated (documented details are in the free online book, Continuing History of the Church of God, available at www.ccog.org).

8. Jesus also stated:

³⁵ Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. (Matthew 24:35)

There are over 5,800 ancient documents, composed of 2.6 million pages, which contain parts of the New Testament (McDowell J, p. 53) and many of those contain Jesus’ words. Furthermore, His words have been translated into at least 1521 different languages (Latest Bible translation statistics. Wycliff Bible Translators. 08/15/18). Billions of copies of the New Testament have been produced in the past few centuries. Jesus’ words most certainly did not pass away.

How many others in history have made such bold claims about themselves and had them repeatedly confirmed for centuries later?

9. Jesus predicted that the gospel would one day be preached to all the world before the end:

¹⁴ And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:14)

Substantial efforts to do this have happened over the centuries. Some have claimed the gospel preaching already has reached all the world. While at least a partial witness has been given to many nations around the world, this will be completely fulfilled (to God’s satisfaction) within the next decade or so.

10. Jesus also made a prediction that was fulfilled just a few decades after He made it:

¹ Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. 2 And Jesus said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.” (Matthew 24:1-2)

History records that the above was fulfilled by the Roman General Titus in 70 A.D. (e.g. Josephus. Wars of the Jews, Book VII, Chapter 1, verse 1).

While skeptics have tried to claim Matthew (or someone else) wrote this after the destruction of the temple to make it seem like Jesus predicted it, they have no proof of that.

Actually, internal statements in the Book of Matthew (like Matthew 5:23-24, 17:21-24, 23:16-22) likely would have been written differently if the temple had already been destroyed. Furthermore, in Matthew 21:13, Matthew uses the verb λἐγει meaning “saying” (Green J. Interlinear Bible, 2^nd edition. Hendrickson, 1986, p. 756) making the statement a historic present for the temple, as opposed to something that only existed in the past. Additionally, tradition, which admittedly is often unreliable, has Matthew martyred about a decade prior to the destruction of the temple (Blanchard A. Book of Martyrs. N. G. Ellis, 1844, p. 17).

Furthermore, anti-miracle scholars really have no legitimate argument against the nine other earlier listed predictions that Jesus made that have been coming to pass. There are too many to dismiss as simply “lucky guesses.”

11. Consider also a conditional statement made by Jesus after His resurrection:

¹ “To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, … ⁵ Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place — unless you repent. Revelation 2:1,5)

When Jesus said this, Ephesus was the most important city in Asia Minor, and it was a major coastal port. Centuries later, Ephesus lost its prominence and, ended up, via silting, to be about 6 miles (around 10 kilometers) away from the coast! My wife and I personally verified this when we visited Ephesus.

Jesus made predictions about the other 6 churches of Revelation 2 & 3 that have come to pass, that I have not listed. Many of them are in the free online book, Continuing History of the Church of God (available at www.ccog.org).

Jesus made other predictions that were listed in the Gospels and then listed as fulfilled in the Gospels as well (e.g. His betrayal, Peter denying Him, etc.). But I have not quoted those here as some may claim those did not count because the New Testament itself is the historical source of both the prophecy and the verification.

But the others shown here clearly have been fulfilled as can be proven from the records of history.

For hundreds of scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments related to the Messiah are in the free online book: Proof Jesus is the Messiah.

Some items of related interest may include:

Proof Jesus is the Messiah This free book has over 200 Hebrew prophecies were fulfilled by Jesus. Plus, His arrival was consistent with specific prophecies and even Jewish interpretations of prophecy. Here are links to seven related sermons: Proof Jesus is the Messiah, Prophecies of Jesus’ birth, timing, and death, Jesus’ prophesied divinity, 200+ OT prophecies Jesus filled; Plus prophecies He made, Why Don’t Jews Accept Jesus?, Daniel 9, Jews, and Jesus, and Facts and Atheists’ Delusions About Jesus. Plus the links to two sermonettes: Luke’s census: Any historical evidence? and Muslims believe Jesus is the Messiah, but … These videos cover nearly all of the book, plus have some information not in the book.
Is God’s Existence Logical? Is it really logical to believe in God? Yes! Would you like Christian answers to give atheists? This is a free online booklet that deal with improper theories and musings called science related to the origin of the origin of the universe, the origin of life, and evolution. Two animated videos of related interest are also available: Big Bang: Nothing or Creator? and A Lifegiver or Spontaneous Evolution?
Jesus: The Son of God and Saviour Who was Jesus? Why did He come to earth? What message did He bring? Is there evidence outside the Bible that He existed? Here is a YouTube sermon titled Jesus: Son of God and Saviour.
Jesus is God, But Became Flesh Was Jesus fully human and fully God or what? Here is information in the Spanish language¿Es Jesucristo Dios?.
Virgin Birth: Does the Bible Teach It? What does the Bible teach? What is claimed in The Da Vinci Code?
Why Does Jesus Have Two Different Genealogies listed in Matthew 1 and Luke 3? Matthew 1:1-16 and Luke 3:23-38 seemingly list two different genealogies for Jesus. Why? Here is a version in the Spanish language: ¿Por qué Jesús tiene dos genealogías diferentes las cuales aparecen en Mateo 1 y Lucas 3?
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. Here are links to three related sermons: The World’s False Gospel, The Gospel of the Kingdom: From the New and Old Testaments, and The Kingdom of God is the Solution.
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, and Ekegusii Omogano Bw’ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete.
CCOG.ORG Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God. There are links to literature is about 100 different languages there. 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? an CCOG: Four Years Revealing Philadelphia? Here is a written link to a version of that first sermon in the Spanish language: Aniversario del primer año de la Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios: ¿Qué se ha cumplido?

(Abraham’s Journey from Ur to Canaan, by József Molnár, 1850 )

COGwriter

The Temple Institute had the following in its newsletter today:

Avraham avinu (Abraham our father) never shied away from a challenge. From G-d’s first words to Avraham, “Lech lecha – go to yourself – to the land that I will show you…” (Genesis 12:1) Avraham was in, all the way – fully committed to his new found relationship with HaShem. Nor was Avraham adverse to questioning G-d: Will I and my barren wife Sara ever be blessed with the child that you have promised me? Will a great nation ever emerge from my loins? In this week’s Torah reading, Vayera, Avraham, still recovering from his circumcision, graciously welcomes to his tent three wayfarers, little suspecting that they are angels, messengers from G-d with the long awaited tidings that barren and elderly Sara would, indeed, give birth to a son – whose name, Yitzchak – laughter – would be a memorial to the elderly couple’s joyful (and skeptical) receiving of the good news. No sooner than the three guests departed from Avraham than he successfully, with profound humility and untold courage, negotiated with G-d the issue of Divine justice to be meted out to the iniquitous dwellers of the city of Sodom.

Here is some of what the Old Testament says about that:

Here is some of what the New Testament says about that:

18 But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe — and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? 22 Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? 23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. 24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. (James 2:18-24)

Many have confused believing that there is a God with faith. It does NOT take faith to believe that there is a God.

The existence of a supernatural being can be clearly seen:

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

Th existence of God can be proven. For details, you can check out our free online book: Is God’s Existence Logical?

The fact that Jesus is the Messiah can be proven. For details, check out the free online book: Proof Jesus is the Messiah.

Getting back to Abraham.

He and his family left the comforts of the world at that time. They faced difficulties and challenges as can be read in chapters 12 through 25 of Genesis.

But, he did not give up. He did not go back to the wealthy life with the then ‘modern comforts.’

He did not only believe in God, Abraham believed God and lived where and how God taught him.

Because of that, God blessed him:

2 Then the Lord appeared to him and said: “Do not go down to Egypt; live in the land of which I shall tell you. 3 Dwell in this land, and I will be with you and bless you; for to you and your descendants I give all these lands, and I will perform the oath which I swore to Abraham your father. 4 And I will make your descendants multiply as the stars of heaven; I will give to your descendants all these lands; and in your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed; 5 because Abraham obeyed My voice and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My laws.” (Genesis 26:2-5)

Abraham was willing to live by faith in God and His ways.

For more on faith, check out the free online booklet: Faith for Those God has Called and Chosen.

The Apostle Paul wrote that Christians are the seed of Abraham:

29 And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Galatians 3:29)

To be Christ’s and the seed of Abraham requires more than believing that there is a God.

The demons believe that there is a God and Jesus is His Son.

Real faith involves living as God would have you do.

Abraham did so. Will you?

Donald Trump and Joe Biden
(Official White House Photos)

COGwriter

Ecumenical News reported the following:

Evangelist Pat Robertson, who once ran for the Republican Party nomination for U.S. president and who has played an important role in mobilizing conservative Christians to vote in the United States, has said that “God is not a Republican.”.

Robertson made the remark during an interview with Fox News presenter Chris Wallace on Oct. 17, Premier Christian News reported on Oct. 19.

The 91-year-old was asked if there were any negatives to tying Christian evangelicalism to the Republican party, to which he replied: “Well, I came to realise without question that God is not a Republican, that God loves everybody.

“The trouble with, you know, getting involved in partisan politics is that half the electorate you’re going to make mad at you. And I should be dealing with eternal matters and not secular politics.” 10/19/21 https://www.ecumenicalnews.com/article/us-televangelist-pat-robertson-says-god-is-not-a-republican-during-tv-interview/60929.htm

The “trouble” is that being politically-focused in this world keeps many from “seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33).

Now, who claim to be Church of God Christians have improperly put their hope in the return of Donald Trump as President of the United States. PCG’s Gerald Flurry has had many writings and false prophesies about Donald Trump (e.g. PCG’s Gerald Flurry partially admits his mistake, but again asserts Donald Trump will be back; ‘Office of the Former President’ and Gerald Flurry again pushes his Donald Trump error. Do any in PCG care his Amos 7 prediction about Laodicean deaths was proven to be false?). CGFF’s Don Billingsley, who was also proven wrong about Hillary Clinton being president now, also has been wrong about Donald Trump (see Biden-Harris Inaugurated: Gerald Flurry and Don Billingsley again proven wrong).

As far as individual faiths, Democrat Joe Biden claims to be Roman Catholic and Republican Donald Trump claims to be a Presbyterian.

Without going into unique specifics about either, let’s consider how they are both similar:

1. Neither lives like a member of their professed faiths is supposed to try to live.
2. Both support LGBTQ rights.
3. Both have repeatedly supported increasing US debt.
4. Both have publicly made numerous gaffes and misstatements.
5. Both are white septuagenarians who have been accused of openly praising white supremacists. (https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2019/03/joe-biden-donald-trump-similarities-2020.html)
6. Both have called for unchecked empowerment of law-enforcement entities.
7. Both have been accused of sexually harassing numerous women.
8. Neither has called for national repentance.
9. Neither has sought first the Kingdom of God.
10. Both have been leaders in Administrations that have upset the Europeans.
11. Both have been accused of hypocrisy.

Now, I am not trying to say that there are no differences. Yes, I know they have differing economic and climate policies as well as different views on abortion and racial matters.

Yet, morally they do not uphold biblical teachings and politically, they both have been disastrous (though sometimes in different ways).

Now let’s see what the Bible teaches about three of the eleven issues they share.

First, the condoning of the LGBTQ agenda:

22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man — and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.

24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. (Romans 1:22-32, NKJV unless otherwise specified)

Both Republicans and Democrats publicly approve of many aspects of sexual immorality. The God of the Bible opposes this–and those polices will end in death!

Now, let’s consider increasing Treasury notes, bills, and related pledges:

2 And the Lord answered me: “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. 3 For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.

4 “Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith.

5 “Moreover, wine is a traitor, an arrogant man who is never at rest. His greed is as wide as Sheol; like death he has never enough. He gathers for himself all nations and collects as his own all peoples.”

6 Shall not all these take up their taunt against him, with scoffing and riddles for him, and say, “Woe to him who heaps up what is not his own— for how long?— and loads himself with pledges!” 7 Will not your debtors suddenly arise, and those awake who will make you tremble? Then you will be spoil for them. 8 Because you have plundered many nations, all the remnant of the peoples shall plunder you, for the blood of man and violence to the earth, to cities and all who dwell in them. (Habakkuk 2:2-8, ESV)

Notice that this ends in destruction. Both Republicans and Democrats support major increases in US debt. This is not good.

As far as being hypocritical goes, the Book of Job teaches:

13 … And the hope of the hypocrite shall perish, (Job 8:13)

The Bible prophecy warns that God will punish and destroy “an hypocritical nation” (Isaiah 10:6, KJV) in a prophecy related to the USA.

The Bible teaches:

1 Cry aloud, spare not;
Lift up your voice like a trumpet;
Tell My people their transgression,
And the house of Jacob their sins. (Isaiah 58:1)

These national sins include abortion, sexuality immorality, promoting pornography, false witness, violence, economic theft through debt and other means, hypocrisy, disdain for the God of the Bible, covetousness, and a host of others.

See also, out free online book, The Ten Commandments: The Decalogue, Christianity, and the Beast.

As far as voting goes, notice something that international author Doug Casey wrote about it:

March 29, 2019

Democracy is vastly overrated. …

Most of the founders of America were more concerned with liberty than democracy. …

Voting encourages politicians. A vote against one candidate—a major, and quite understandable, reason why many people vote—is always interpreted as a vote for his opponent. And even though you may be voting for the lesser of two evils, the lesser of two evils is still evil. It amounts to giving the candidate a tacit mandate to impose his will on society. https://internationalman.com/articles/5-reasons-not-to-vote/

As far as evil goes, evil is still evil.

Many professing Christians believe that they need to vote even though that concept is not endorsed in the Bible. But notice two concepts that are:

20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil (Isaiah 5:20).

2 You shall not follow a crowd to do evil (Exodus 23:2)

The “lesser of two evils” is still not good.

What should a Christian do?

Jesus said to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33) and to pray for God’s kingdom to come (Matthew 6:10).

As far as political leaders go, the Apostle Paul wrote:

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

Notice that we are to pray for worldly leaders and those that have authority over us so that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life. Nothing like this is said for voting that many falsely claim is their “Christian” duty–prayer for leaders is.

No matter who you may think is better, the lesser of two evils is still evil.

Related to this, the Continuing Church of God (CCOG) put together the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel last year:

10:25

Biden, Trump, and the Bible

The USA presidential campaign is in full swing. Though Democratic party candidate Joe Biden and Republican party candidate Donald Trump have differing economic and climate policies as well as different views on abortion and racial matters, there are many similarities both share. Do they have policies that they share that are leading to the destruction of the USA? What do Bible prophecies reveal about sexual immorality, debt, and hypocrisy? What are some of the national sins of the USA? Does the Bible endorse voting? What did Jesus teach related to what to seek and pray for? What does the New Testament teach that Christians are to do related to leaders? Is the lesser of two evils still evil? Dr. Thiel goes over these matters, including going over eleven similarities the two major party candidates share and some of what the Bible teaches about evil.

Here is a link to our sermonette video: Biden, Trump, and the Bible.

Supporting evil is not the solution for Christians.

God is not a Republican. Nor is God a Democrat.

Christians can and should pray for the leaders of their nations.

Without national repentance, which is not expected, the USA has relatively few years left (watch Is the USA prophesied to be destroyed by 2028?).

No Republican nor Democrat will stop biblical prophecies from coming to pass.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Might the U.S.A. Be Gone by 2028? Could the USA be gone by the end of 2028 or earlier? There is a tradition attributed to the Hebrew prophet Elijah that humanity had 6,000 years to live before being replaced by God’s Kingdom. There are scriptures, writings in the Talmud, early Christian teachings that support this. Also, even certain Hindu writings support it. Here is a link to a related video: Is the USA prophesied to be destroyed by 2028? In Spanish: Seran los Estados Unidos Destruidos en el 2028?
Should a Christian Vote? This article gives some of the Biblical rationale on this subject. Would Jesus vote for president/prime minister? Is voting in the Bible? This is a subject Christians need to understand. A video of related interest is available titled: Should Christians Vote? Another video is Sorry state of the 2020 presidential campaign.
Is God Calling You? This booklet discusses topics including calling, election, and selection. If God is calling you, how will you respond? Here is a link to a related sermon: Could God be Calling You? A short animation is also available: Is God Calling You?
Christian Repentance Do you know what repentance is? Is it really necessary for salvation? A related sermon is also available titled: Real Christian Repentance.
Just What Do You Mean — Repentance? Do you know what repentance is? Have you truly repented? Repented of what? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet on this important subject.
When You Sin: Do You Really Repent? This is an article by Charles F. Hunting. A related sermon is Confess to God and truly repent.
Do Christians Sin? This is an article by Herbert W. Armstrong.
Overcoming Sin What is sin? How are Christians suppose to overcome it? Here is a link to a version in Mandarin Chinese: QKg f/‘͉v„. Here is a link to a version in Spanish: Vencer al pecado. Here is also a link to a video in English titled How YOU Can Overcome Sin.
Who is the King of the West? Why is there no Final End-Time King of the West in Bible Prophecy? Is the United States the King of the West? Here is a version in the Spanish language: ¿Quién es el Rey del Occidente? ¿Por qué no hay un Rey del Occidente en la profecía del tiempo del fin? A related sermon is also available: The Bible, the USA, and the King of the West.
USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses Can you point to scriptures, like Daniel 11:39, that point to the USA in the 21st century? This article does. Two related sermon are available: Identifying the USA and its Destruction in Prophecy and Do these 7 prophesies point to the end of the USA?
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? In the Spanish language check out ¿Quién es el Rey del Norte? Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North.
Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo-Saxon (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo-Saxon nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first? Here is a link to the Spanish version of this article: Anglo-América & las Tribus Perdidas de Israel. Information is also in the YouTube sermons titled Where are the Ten Lost Tribes? Why does it matter? and British are the Covenant People. A short YouTube of prophetic interest may be: Are Chinese threats against Australia for real?
Will the Anglo-Saxon-Celtic Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? Here is a related item in the Spanish language ¿Serán divididas las naciones anglosajonas?
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2029 or 20xx? There is also a video titled 6000 Years: When will God’s Kingdom Come? Here is a link to the article in Spanish: ¿Tiene Dios un plan de 6,000 años?
Biden-Harris: Prophecies and Destruction Can the USA survive two full presidential terms? In what ways are Joe Biden and Kamala Harris apocalyptic? This book has hundreds of prophecies and scriptures to provide details.  A Kindle version is also available and you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to your free Kindle reader app (or if you already have one or a Kindle),  you can go to: Biden-Harris: Prophecies and Destruction (Kindle) to get the book in seconds.
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? Two related videos are available: Donald: ‘Trump of God’ or Apocalyptic? and Donald Trump’s Prophetic Presidency.
Trump Presidency Magic 8 Ball or Bible Prophecy? BBC reported that one might as well use a ‘Magic Eight-Ball’ to try to predict what will happen in the remaining time of Donald Trump’s presidency. What is a ‘Magic Eight-Ball’? Dr. Thiel not only explains that, but also briefly goes over 10 biblically-based warnings he wrote would happen if Donald Trump were elected that have already began to come to pass. He also goes over something he wrote back in 2008 that the Trump presidency is also helping lead to fulfillment. Should you trust Bible prophecy or not? Dr. Thiel says that Bible prophecy can be trusted, despite the view of skeptics and others that either overlook or despise the Bible. This is a video.
Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse This 188 page book is for people truly interested in prophecies related to Donald Trump and the United States, including learning about several that have already been fulfilled and those that will be fulfilled in the future. The physical book can be purchased at Amazon for $12.99 from the following link: Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse.
Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse-Kindle Edition This electronic version of the 188 page print edition is available for only US$3.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to Donald Trump and America’s Apocalypse-Kindle Edition.
Cross-dressing and other assaults against your children. What should you do? Is there an agenda to turn your children and/or grandchildren away from biblical morality and towards practices promoted by homosexuals? What does the Bible teach about cross-dressing? What should parents do? If there is an agenda, what has been going on? There are also three YouTube videos related to this, titled Transgender ‘Woe to those who call evil good’ and Cross dressing and Other Assaults Against Your Children and USA pushing gender confusion.
The Bible Condemns Homosexuality “Same-sex marriage” for “gays” and lesbians is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality and the LGBTQ agenda? Can homosexuals change? A related video sermon is titled: What Does the Bible Really Teach about Homosexuality? A short video is available titled: Gay Gene? Born That Way?
Pornography: A scourge on society Is pornography harmless fun? Does the Bible teach anything about it? What are the views of some involved with it? A related sermons is titled: Pornography, False Comfort, and False Religion. Here a shorter YouTube video Pornography: Harmless Fun or a Scourge on Society?
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. Here are links to four 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.

COGwriter

Notice something related to an ex-Satanist turned Protestant:

John Ramirez spent much of his early life with strong ties to the devil–he drank animal blood, conducted sacrifices, was baptized with the devil and got married in a demonic wedding on Halloween. …

“I wonder why people celebrate Halloween these days,” the 55-year-old told Fox News. “Because in essence, I know what Halloween is about. I was in witchcraft for 25 years … selling my soul to the devil, I was a general for the devil … as a warlock.”

He added: “Have you ever heard a Satanist say, ‘I can’t wait for Good Friday to go to church with you?’ So, why would the Christians say, ‘I can’t wait for Halloween to say I want to dress up’ … It’s cheating on God, really.”

Ramirez, who grew up in the Bronx, was part of a Satanist church from when he was 8 years old to 35 years old. …

He showed Fox News the marks on his body, the “mark of the beast,” as he reached the “highest rank of devil worshippers” and a “name chosen by the devil himself,” after kissing a human skull and being cut open and burned in demonic ceremonies. …

Ramirez said he threw away thousands of dollars worth of witchcraft materials in the closet — including human bones, cemetery dirt, etc. …

He said all the witches claiming to do witchcraft against President Trump, “That was a hoax, just to make money.”

The author of “Destroying Fear,” said, “The devil’s greatest weapon is fear,” 10/30/19 https://www.foxnews.com/faith-values/halloween-celebrate-christian-satanist-evangelist

While many are aware of some of the pagan origins of Halloween celebrations, many d0 not realize where the practice of birthday celebrations came from or how they are viewed by certain Satanists.

Back in 1969 Anton Lavey wrote The Satanic Bible. On page 96 (in the 1976 version) it mentions birthdays:

THE highest of all holidays in the Satanic religion is the date of one’s own birth. This is in direct contradiction to the holy of holy days of other religions, which deify a particular god who has been created in an anthropomorphic form of their own image, thereby showing that the ego is not really buried.

The Satanist feels: “Why not really be honest and if you are going to create a god in your image, why not create that god as yourself.” Every man is a god if he chooses to recognize himself as one. So, the Satanist celebrates his own birthday as the most important holiday of the year. After all, aren’t you happier about the fact that you were born than you are about the birth of someone you have never even met? Or for that matter, aside from religious holidays, why pay higher tribute to the birthday of a president or to a date in history than we do to the day we were brought into this greatest of all worlds?

After one’s own birthday, the two major Satanic holidays are Walpurgisnacht and Halloween (or All Hallows’ Eve). (Lavey A, Gilmore P. The Satanic Bible. Avon, September 1, 1976, p. 96–note it is on page 53 of an online version I found also).

It is interesting that birthdays are considered one of the three most important holidays to these Satan worshipers (the two others called Walpurgisnacht and Halloween have pagan ties and are observed by millions who claim to be Christian). While not all Satanists share that view, most celebrate birthdays and those who practice astrology also consider birthdays of vital importance.

The Bible never encourages the celebration of birthdays. Instead, it tends to speak in a negative manner concerning them (cf. Matthew 14:6-11; Jeremiah 20:14-18).

Of course, despite the practices of many who profess Christianity or Judaism, early Christians did not celebrate birthdays nor did the early Jews. Nor have real Christians ever celebrated Halloween. As far as the Jews, notice that the first century Jewish historian Josephus noted that Jewish families did not celebrate birthdays:

Nay, indeed, the law does not permit us to make festivals at the birth of our children, and thereby afford occasion of drinking to excess (Josephus. Translated by W. Whiston. Against Apion, Book II, Chapter 26. Extracted from Josephus Complete Works, Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids (MI), 14th printing, 1977, p. 632).

Now although there is no specific command against the celebration of birthdays in the Bible, the Jewish custom in those days was apparently based on the negative occurrences in the Bible surrounding birthdays, as well as the astrological implications of the celebration of birthdays (pagan practices, like astrology, were specifically prohibited in the law).

No early religious/church writing from the second century that I have seen (and I have read most that are available) seems to endorse (or even suggest) the celebration of birthdays by any who professed Christ either.

Astrology also seems to play a role:

Since it was believed that the positions of the stars at the time of birth influenced a child’s future, astrological horoscopes came into being, purporting to foretell the future, based on the time of birth. “Birthdays are intimately linked with the stars, since without the calendar, no one could tell when to celebrate his birthday. They are also indebted to the stars in another way, for in early days the chief importance of birthday records was to enable the astrologers to chart horoscopes” (The Lore of Birthdays, p. 53). Rawlinson’s translation of Herodotus includes the following footnote: “Horoscopes were of very early use in Egypt… and Cicero speaks of the Egyptians and Chaldees predicting… a man’s destiny at his birth”…

When we examine the principles of God’s law closely, as they relate to birthday celebrations, we can understand why neither Christ, nor His Apostles, nor their true followers, observed their birthdays. As noted earlier, the practice has its origin in idolatry and the worship of the sun, moon and stars…Some may view birthday customs as purely secular, lacking any religious significance. Yet we need to be aware of the broader perspective of their origins, and the religious significance they have had—and still have—for vast multitudes of people. (Reynolds, Rod. Should Christians Celebrate Birthdays? Living Church News, May-June 2002. pp.16-18).

The Bible condemns practices associated with astrology:

You are wearied in the multitude of your counsels; Let now the astrologers, the stargazers, And the monthly prognosticators Stand up and save you From what shall come upon you. Behold, they shall be as stubble, The fire shall burn them; They shall not deliver themselves From the power of the flame (Isaiah 47:13-14).

Although he was not part of the Church of God, the writings of the early third century Catholic theologian Origen of Alexandria show that, even that late, Orthodox Catholics were against the celebration of birthdays. The Catholic Encyclopedia states:

Origen, glancing perhaps at the discreditable imperial Natalitia, asserts (in Lev. Hom. viii in Migne, P.G., XII, 495) that in the Scriptures sinners alone, not saints, celebrate their birthday (Martindale C. Christmas, 1908).

Here is some of what Origen wrote:

…of all the holy people in the Scriptures, no one is recorded to have kept a feast or held a great banquet on his birthday. It is only sinners (like Pharaoh and Herod) who make great rejoicings over the day on which they were born into this world below (Origen, in Levit., Hom. VIII, in Migne P.G., XII, 495) (Thurston H. Natal Day. Transcribed by Thomas M. Barrett. Dedicated to Margaret Johanna Albertina Behling Barrett. The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume X. Copyright © 1911 by Robert Appleton Company. Online Edition Copyright © 2003 by K. Knight. Nihil Obstat, October 1, 1911. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John Cardinal Farley, Archbishop of New York).

The writings of the late third century Catholic theologian Arnobius show that, even that late, Catholics objected to the celebration of birthdays as he wrote:

…you worship with couches, altars, temples, and other service, and by celebrating their games and birthdays, those whom it was fitting that you should assail with keenest hatred. (Arnobius. Against the Heathen (Book I), Chapter 64. Excerpted from Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume 6. Edited by Alexander Roberts & James Donaldson. American Edition, 1886. Online Edition Copyright © 2005 by K. Knight).

Thus birthday celebrations, even of gods and leaders, were condemned as far as the late third century by even Roman Catholic leaders. But like many practices associated with non-biblical “Christianity”, this changed in the fourth century.

Essentially birthdays became celebrated later because of compromises with the pagan cult of Mithraism (see Did Early Christians Celebrate Birthdays? and Do You Practice Mithraism?)

And for over four decades now, Satanists claim that birthdays are their highest holiday. Do you observe them too?

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Did Early Christians Celebrate Birthdays? Did biblical era Jews celebrate birthdays? Who originally celebrated birthdays? When did many that profess Christ begin birthday celebrations? A related sermon video is available and is titled: Birthdays, Christians, and December 25th.
Did God Create a Devil? If not, what happened? Herbert W. Armstrong wrote this as a booklet.
The Bible and Astrology Should Christians avoid participating in astrology or did God inspire it? Does the Bible encourage astrology? What does the Bible actually teach? What is astrology? How does astrology differ from astronomy? Should Christians Be Involved In Astrology?
OMENS? DIVINATION? HOROSCOPES? THE ORIGIN OF ASTROLOGY Where did astrology come from? Should you read your horoscope?
Does Astrology Work? Many believe and follow astrology–but does it work? Here is a link to the article in Mandarin Chinese: S`fg/QÆxnTÿ .
The Occult Explosion – What Does It Mean? A booklet by Herbert W. Armstrong which also includes a challenge.
Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians? Here are some historical and biblical insight on this question. There are many cultures that have celebrations and observances that are similar to some associated with Halloween. What did the Druids do? Is Halloween one of the most important holidays for Satanists? Do the Japanese, Indians, and Chinese have any practices that are similar to some associated with Halloween? Does the Bible endorse or condemn practices that are associated with Halloween? Here is a link to a related sermon: Let’s Get Real About Halloween. Here are links to three related sermonette length videos: Debunking 17 reasons to celebrate Halloween, Halloween: Are there 7 reasons for Christians to celebrate it?, and International ‘Halloween’ Should Christians observe Halloween?
Close Encounters of a ‘Spirit’ Kind discusses some experiences I believe were (demon) ‘spirit’ related. A video is also available titled: Poltergeists and Lying Wonders.
Angels, Cherubim, and Seraphim This is information about various types of angelic beings.
Walpurgis Night: Witches’ Sabbath? This is observed in parts of Europe April 30th-May 1st. Though named after a Catholic saint, it tends to be like Halloween.
All Saints’ Day, the Day of the Dead, and All Souls’ Day When did “All Saints Day” and the “Day of the Dead” begin? “What about All Soul’s Day”? Here is a link to a related sermon: All Hallowed Saints’ Day of the Dead.
Hope of Salvation: How the Continuing Church of God Differs from Protestantism The CCOG is NOT Protestant. This free online book explains how the real Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants. Several sermons related to the free book are also available: Protestant, Baptist, and CCOG History; The First Protestant, God’s Command, Grace, & Character; The New Testament, Martin Luther, and the Canon; Eucharist, Passover, and Easter; Views of Jews, Lost Tribes, Warfare, & Baptism; Scripture vs. Tradition, Sabbath vs. Sunday; Church Services, Sunday, Heaven, and God’s Plan; Seventh Day Baptists/Adventists/Messianics: Protestant or COG?; Millennial Kingdom of God and God’s Plan of Salvation; Crosses, Trees, Tithes, and Unclean Meats; The Godhead and the Trinity; Fleeing or Rapture?; and Ecumenism, Rome, and CCOG Differences.
Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church. 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, and What Type of Catholic was Polycarp of Smyrna?, Tradition, Holy Days, Salvation, Dress, & Celibacy, and Early Heresies and Heretics, and Doctrines: 3 Days, Abortion, Ecumenism, Meats, Tithes, Crosses, Destiny, and more, and Saturday or Sunday?, The Godhead, Apostolic Laying on of Hands Succession, and Church in the Wilderness Apostolic Succession List.
Do You Practice Mithraism? Many practices and doctrines that mainstream so-called Christian groups have are the same or similar to those of the sun-god Mithras. December 25th was celebrated as his birthday. Do you follow Mithraism combined with the Bible or original Christianity? A sermon video from Vatican City is titled Church of Rome, Mithras, and Isis?
Is God Unreasonable? Some have suggested that if God requires Sabbath-keeping He is unreasonable. Is that true?
Should You Keep 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. A related sermon is Which Spring Days should Christians observe?
Holy Day Calendar This is a listing of the biblical holy days through 2024, with their Roman calendar dates. They are really hard to observe if you do not know when they occur 🙂 In the Spanish/Español/Castellano language: Calendario de los Días Santos. In Mandarin Chinese: 何日是神的圣日？ 这里是一份神的圣日日历从2013年至2024年。.
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?
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.
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?

Photo by Tony Orb

COGwriter

Halloween is often considered as a Roman Catholic holiday, but within Roman Catholicism there are different views of it, and there are differing views in other groups.

Some endorse it, while others condemn it.

Here is the view of one Roman Catholic writer endorsing Halloween:

It should be noted that Halloween is a Catholic holiday. Pope Gregory IV in 835 made it the universal practice in the Roman Catholic Church to celebrate All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1. All Souls’ Day follows the next day as the commemoration of all of the faithful who have departed.

“All Hallows’ Even” as the evening before All Hallows’ Day — All Saints’ Day – eventually became shortened to Halloween. Hallow, as in “hallowed be thy name” in the Lord’s Prayer, is an older form of the word “holy.”

It was the Protestant Reformation that rejected the universal practice of devotion to the dead (Martin Luther dropped any references to praying for the dead from his Bible). This Catholic holiday was attacked, much like the church as a whole, for being pagan and evil. Hence I wouldn’t be surprised if this cloud of suspicion hovering over Halloween originated from the spirit of anti-Catholicism.

But Nov. 1st was the day of the Celtic Summer’s End feast of Samhain, the day when the dead returned to the earth. We have retained some of these pagan elements to Halloween, as is true of Christmas and Easter.

Why would a pope put the Catholic celebration of the dead on top of the pagans’ celebrations of the dead? Because the Catholic feasts are in continuity and fulfill the meaning of the pagan ones…

So what about the indulgence in the spooky and scary? Skeletons are spooky, but they are also very Catholic. In fact, one couldn’t find a better haunted house for a Halloween pilgrimage than the various “chapel of bones” that can be found across Europe (Killian Brian. Halloween, as autumn celebration, reminder God’s name is hallowed. Catholic Online International News. 10/31/06. http://www.catholic.org/international/international_story.php?id=21818).

While the above author claims that anti-Catholic sentiments are perhaps the reason for objections to Halloween, it should be noted that other Roman Catholic leaders have condemned it, while Protestant supporters, like some of those at Christianity Today endorse its observance and attempt to profit commercially from it (for specific see the article American’s Expected to Spend Nearly $7 Billion on Halloween, CT Wants its Share).

Denouncements From Roman Catholics

Interestingly, the powerful Roman Catholic archdiocese in Mexico City condemned Halloween observance as pagan in 2007, though it is still being observed by practicing Catholics there:

Mexico’s Roman Catholic church slammed Halloween as “damaging and against the faith” on Monday, as conservatives sought to stem celebration of the ghouls-and-goblins holiday and return to the country’s traditional Day of the Dead.

The U.S.-style holiday has made broad inroads in Mexico, with monster costumes almost as widely sold as the marigold flowers traditionally used to decorate relatives’ graves during Nov. 1-2 Day of the Dead ceremonies, when families build altars and leave food, drink and flowers for the dearly departed.

“Those who celebrate Halloween are worshipping a culture of death that is the product of a mix of pagan customs,” the Archdiocese of Mexico published in an article on its Web site Monday. “The worst thing is that this celebration has been identified with neo-pagans, Satanism and occult worship.”

The archdiocese urged parents not to let their children wear Halloween costumes or go trick-or-treating — instead suggesting Sunday school classes to “teach them the negative things about Halloween,” costume parties where children can dress up as Biblical characters, and candy bags complete with instructions to give friends a piece while telling them “God loves you.”…

Pre-Hispanic cultures celebrated a similar holiday in August, but after the Spanish conquest, historians say the date was changed to Nov. 1 to coincide with the Catholic holiday…

In another article, Onesimo Herrera-Flores complained that “Halloween, for a variety of reasons, has imposed itself on other nations, displacing native customs.”

Celebrating Halloween, he said, citing a church authority, is “like inviting Satan into your home.” (Mexico’s Catholic church slams Halloween; conservatives call for return to Day of Dead. Associated Press – Oct 29, 2007 http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/10/29/america/LA-GEN-Mexico-Church-Halloween.php

In 2009, the Vatican itself took steps to condemn Halloween:

Vatican condemns Hallowe’en as anti-Christian

The Vatican has condemned Hallowe’en as anti-Christian, saying it is based on a sinister and dangerous “undercurrent of occultism”.

Telegraph – Oct 30, 2009http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/religion/6467253/Vatican-condemns-Halloween-as-anti-Christian.html

Also notice:

… in recent years the Catholic church has been criticising, for instance, Halloween: it views Halloween as a symbol of subtle and dangerous secular values opposed to Christian ones; and it fears competition from its growing popularity. (Franco M. Is this the Vatican’s twilight? Guardian, August 5, 2011. http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/belief/2011/aug/05/vatican-ambassadors-holy-see)

In the Philippines, Catholic schools have discouraged Halloween:

The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) has called on its member schools to shun Halloween parties…“Iwasan natin ang mga ganyang Halloween party kasi hindi naman Christian holidays… (Let’s avoid holding Halloween parties because Halloween is not a Christian holiday…),” CEAP president Fr. Gregg Bañaga reportedly said in a CBCP News article. The report also noted that the Catholic Church has been against the idea of glorifying evil during Halloween rites. (No more Halloween parties, Catholic schools told. GMA News, October 27, 2012. http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/279915/news/nation/no-more-halloween-parties-catholic-schools-told).

It is good when religious leaders discourage those who profess Christ from observing pagan holidays with pagan practices.

Halloween is pagan and leaders in many professing Christian churches, including Catholic ones, know this.

All theological scholars realize that the apostolic church did not observe Halloween or anything resembling it.

Notice also the following scripture:

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

At their absolute best, Halloween customs are futile, came from the way of the Gentiles, and detract from the emphasis to worship the true God. Those in the Church of God have always realized this. And many in the Church of Rome are getting some understanding of that.

Notice something from the Apostle Paul:

33 Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.” 34 Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for some do not have the knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame. (1 Corinthians 15:33-34)

Keeping Halloween is evil and people do so to their shame. Awaken to righteousness!

Halloween is not a holiday that the earliest Christians observed. It should not be observed by modern Christians either.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Debunking 17 reasons to celebrate Halloween What is Halloween? What do Druids and saints have to do with it? Does the Bible endorse Halloween? When did people start to observe it? Should Christians celebrate it? It seems like more reasons are given by some Protestants and Catholics each year to observe it. In this video, Dr. Thiel gives 17 reasons that have been given to celebrate Halloween and debunks each of them from the Bible. Three reasons he debunks have been promoted by the actor Kirk Cameron–with others from pastors and religious writers. He also debunks what could be called an 18th reason from a Catholic source–plus cites Catholic sources (including the Vatican) opposed to its observance. This is a video sermon.
There are 7 reasons for Christians to celebrate Halloween? What about the Bible? First Baptist Pastor Alan Rudnik has posted seven reasons he feel that a Christian should celebrate Halloween, which he ties to ‘All Saints’ Day’ as well as the Druids. In this sermon, Dr. Thiel challenges each of those seven reasons and gives biblical and historical rationale for Christians NOT celebrating Halloween, All Saints’ Day, All Souls’ Day, and the Day of the Dead. Dr. Thiel even mentions the ties to the Pantheon. While Alan Rudnik only cited one scripture, Dr. Thiel cites many and explains not only what the Bible teaches, but what the practices of the early Christians were related to holy days. This is a new sermon.
Should You Keep 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. Two related sermons would be Which Spring Days should Christians observe? and Fall Holy Days for Christians.
Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians? Here are some historical and biblical insight on this question. There are many cultures that have celebrations and observances that are similar to some associated with Halloween. What did the Druids do? Is Halloween one of the most important holidays for Satanists? Do the Japanese, Indians, and Chinese have any practices that are similar to some associated with Halloween? Does the Bible endorse or condemn practices that are associated with Halloween? Here is a link to a related sermon: Let’s Get Real About Halloween. Here are links to three related sermonette length videos: Debunking 17 reasons to celebrate Halloween, Halloween: Are there 7 reasons for Christians to celebrate it?, and International ‘Halloween’ Should Christians observe Halloween?
Walpurgis Night: Witches’ Sabbath? This is observed in parts of Europe April 30th-May 1st. Though named after a Catholic saint, it tends to be like Halloween.
International ‘Halloween’ Should Christians observe Halloween? There are many cultures that have celebrations and observances that are similar to some associated with Halloween. What did the Druids do? Is Halloween one of the most important holidays for Satanists? Do the Japanese, Indians, and Chinese have any practices that are similar to some associated with Halloween? Does the Bible endorse or condemn practices that are associated with Halloween? This is a video.
All Saints’ Day, the Day of the Dead, and All Souls’ Day When did “All Saints Day” and the “Day of the Dead” begin? “What about All Soul’s Day”?
Is There “An Annual Worship Calendar” In the Bible? This paper provides a biblical and historical critique of several articles, including one by the Tkach WCG which states that this should be a local decision. What do the Holy Days mean? Also you can click here for the calendar of Holy Days. (Here is a related link in Spanish/español: Calendario Anual de Adoración –Una crítica basada en la Biblia y en la Historia: ¿Hay un Calendario Anual de Adoración en la Biblia?
Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church. 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, and What Type of Catholic was Polycarp of Smyrna?, Tradition, Holy Days, Salvation, Dress, & Celibacy, and Early Heresies and Heretics, and Doctrines: 3 Days, Abortion, Ecumenism, Meats, Tithes, Crosses, Destiny, and more, and Saturday or Sunday?, and The Godhead.
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?

Prayers……#Haiti #kidnapped pic.twitter.com/AT9qPxO9Kc

— Brook Harless (@brook_harless) October 17, 2021

COGwriter

Haiti remains dangerous as the following shows:

US Missionaries Kidnapped in Haiti

October 17, 2021

A group of 17 U.S. missionaries, including children, has been kidnapped by a gang in Haiti, according to a voice message sent by a religious group that was aware of the incident.

The Christian Aid Ministries, based in the midwestern state of Ohio, sent a message to other missions, saying that the 17 were helping build an orphanage and had left the site when they were abducted.

“This is a special prayer alert,” the one-minute message said. “Pray that the gang members would come to repentance.”

The message said that the mission’s field director and his family and one other unidentified man stayed at the ministry’s base while everyone else visiting the orphanage was kidnapped. The field director alerted U.S. officials.

A U.S. government spokesperson said officials were aware of the reports of the kidnapping. “The welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad is one of the highest priorities of the Department of State,” the spokesperson said, while declining further comment.

The latest kidnapping in strife-torn Haiti comes just days after high-level U.S. officials visited the Caribbean nation and promised another $15 million for Haiti’s National Police to help reduce gang violence.

Uzra Zeya, U.S. undersecretary of state for civilian security, democracy, and human rights, recently said on Twitter, “Dismantling violent gangs is vital to Haitian stability and citizen security.” https://www.voanews.com/a/u-s-missionaries-and-families-kidnapped-in-haiti-times-reports-/6273895.html

The is kidnapping brought the following, from the Old Testament and New Testaments to mind:

16 He who kidnaps a man and sells him, or if he is found in his hand, shall surely be put to death. (Exodus 21:16, NKJV throughout)

1 But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! 6 For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, (2 Timothy 3:1-6)

Kidnappings should not take place.

While the situation in Haiti has been dismal for decades, in the past few years it has seemingly gotten worse.

The Haitian situation also brought the following biblical prophecy to mind:

23 ‘Make a chain,
For the land is filled with crimes of blood,
And the city is full of violence. (Ezekiel 7:23)

The violence in Haiti has been a major problem the past few years.

Earlier this month, I was speaking with Herb and Gisele Haddon about the possibility of them going back to Haiti, perhaps for the Spring 2022 Holy Days. Herb Haddon, who was discharged from the hospital a few months ago (see Can Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Be Cured? A Miracle in Canada?), said his health is still improving and that they would like to go to Haiti again if they could–but he and I were concerned about safety and violence there.

Herb and Gisele Haddon visited Haiti in February 2019 on behalf of the Continuing Church of God. Here is a report in the Letter to the Brethren: February 21, 2019:

Herb and Gisele Haddon left Haiti because of the riots, protests, and transportation stoppages there.

Tuesday, he sent me the following photo:

Tires were ablaze on the tarmac

While it is hard to tell (you can see smoke), some protesters even lit tires on fire on the airport tarmac when the Haddons were leaving.

Anyway, Herb Haddon sent me the following report:

Gisele and I have returned from an all too short trip to Haiti. Even though we were no able to get to meet with Moise, we did learn considerable about the plight of Haitians.

We cannot, in this present age, help all Haitians with the considerable negative issues they face but we can help Moise and those of the household of faith.

We are learning of a considerable number who desire to be a part of CCOG. Perhaps even up to 100!

Gisele and I are making plans to return to the country when it is much safer to travel, hopefully soon! We have been tasked to assess the situation and make recommendations where necessary. This part of the mission will, again, require the prayers of the brethren, but this is not why I write to you.

Moise and those God is calling from that country have an immediate need for food and water! That’s right . . . WATER! The country’s water supply is dwindling and also what water that is available is not good for human consumption.

Generally speaking, ALL water must be purified before it can be used for drinking. Personally speaking, this fact came as quite a shock to me. I was brought up in a land of plenty . . . especially where water is concerned! City and town water in Canada and I believe in the US has strict standards that are in place to make water, from the tap, potable. Not so in Haiti!

The capital city, Port-au-Prince, a city of several million, does not even have the infrastructure to get water to the masses! If you want water for a particular area, you drill a well!! That’s right, in the middle of a city of several million, you drill a well!! Unheard of in North America.

As I understand it, in North America, it is prohibited to drill a well in an area where water is supplied by a community. Again, not so in Haiti! Also, by drilling a well, this does not guarantee drinkable water! It is my understanding that ALL water has to be purified before it is safe for drinking.

From personal experience, we were given bottled water to drink while in Haiti. Although the water was probably safe to drink, I liken the taste of it to ‘drinking water from a mud puddle’!

My request of you, brothers and sisters, is to help me find information on water purification that can be built in Haiti (generally called ‘appropriate technology’) or products that may be purchased in North America (bare in mind that price and size is an issue) and delivered/taken to Haiti.

In all this, continue praying for our spiritual family and future spiritual family in Haiti. As well as prayers to help us find a suitable method of making drinking water available. Note that potable water, if produced by volume, may also be sold to provide some income for our family there.

Lots to think and pray about.

And while we may only have a dozen or so who are the most interested, it is great that many more may also be.

The Haddons plan to return to Haiti after the situation improves–they are looking at this April. As far as water purification goes, I made a suggestion to Herb Haddon and others probably have by now as well.

(As far as water matters go, we did send water purification items to Haiti back then and have provided other assistance since.)

Scriptually, we know many things will get worse (cf. Matthew 24:21-22), relatively soon (watch Great Tribulation: 2026 or 2027?).

The old WCG also put out the following:

Where is it all going to end? That was the question the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ posed in the twenty-fourth chapter of Matthew. Christ’s answer, known as the Olivet Prophecy, is quite revealing. “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars,” Christ said, referring to one of the prophetic signals that would herald the end of an age (verse 6).

Certainly there have always been wars. And certainly Christ’s words had particular meaning for that day and age. Within a few short decades Roman legions under the command of Titus sacked, burned and pillaged the city of Jerusalem.

But Jesus’ warning about war was also applicable to another period in history. In the book of Revelation, Christ, speaking through the apostle John, amplified some of His previous prophetic statements. In the sixth chapter, John writes: “And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword” (Rev. 6:4).

John was not speaking about the fall of Jerusalem. That war was already some twenty years behind him. John was referring to future events that would bring 6000 years of human history crashing to a cataclysmic close. … John is referring to a time yet ahead of us when “peaceful coexistence” will be a thing of the past. …

It’s no wonder that Jeremiah, in referring to these tumultuous times, stated: “Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob’s trouble …” (Jer. 30:7). (Ritter G. 4 Horsemen of the Apocalypse – The Red Horse – War, pp. 48, 52; see also Ritter R. The War that could end it all. Good News, December 1975)

We are getting closer to the start of the Great Tribulation than most people realize.

In addition to praying for the missionaries and their families, my prayer is for the violence in Haiti to reduce to the point people can lead quiet and peaceful lives:

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

But, also, like Jesus said, we all should pray for God’s Kingdom to come (Matthew 6:10).

Some items of possibly related interest include the following:

Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse What do each of the four horseman of the Apocalypse represent? Have they began their ride? Did Jesus discuss the any of this? Might their rides coincide with the “beginning of sorrows? Do they start their ride prior to the Great Tribulation? Did Nostradamus or any other ‘private prophets’ write predictions that may mislead people so that they may not understand the truth of one or more of the four horseman? There is also a related YouTube video titled Sorrows and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.
21 items to prophetically watch in 2021 Much is happening. Dr. Thiel points to 21 items to watch (cf. Mark 13:37) in this article. Here is a link to a related sermon video: 21 Items to Watch in 2021.
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2021, 2022, or 2023? 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? Here is a version of the article in the Spanish language: ¿Puede la Gran Tribulación comenzar en el 2020 o 2021? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? A related video is: Great Tribulation: 2026 or 2027? Here is a video in the Spanish language: Es El 2021 el año de La Gran Tribulación o el Grande Reseteo Financiero.
Is a Great Reset Coming? Klaus Schwab of the World Economic Forum has proposed a societal change that has been basically endorsed by the Vatican and many world leaders. Does the Bible prophesy a major reset? Here is a link to a related video: Will there be a “Great Reset”?
The Times of the Gentiles Has there been more than one time of the Gentiles? Are we in it now or in the time of Anglo-America? What will the final time of the Gentiles be like? A related sermon is available and is titled: The Times of the Gentiles.
Armageddon Who is involved and when will this gathering happen? Here is also a video from Dr. Thiel, from Tel Megiddo in Israel: Armageddon. Other videos include: Armageddon Will it come on Trump’s watch?, Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy, Freemasonry, Armageddon, and Rome, Is China paving roads to Armageddon?, and Jordan, Petra, and Armageddon.
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. Here are links to three related sermons: The World’s False Gospel, The Gospel of the Kingdom: From the New and Old Testaments, and The Kingdom of God is the Solution.

Ecumenical Service (Eduardo Frei Ruiz Tagle)

COGwriter

The National Catholic Register reported the following:

Michael Nazir-Ali, Prominent Former Anglican Bishop Received into Catholic Church

October 14, 2021

A prominent and retired Church of England bishop once tipped to become a future Archbishop of Canterbury has been received into the Catholic Church, becoming one of the most high-profile Anglican clergymen to make the journey to Rome possibly since Father Ronald Knox in 1917.

Michael Nazir-Ali was received into the Church on Sept. 29, the feast of St. Michael the Archangel and All Angels and will be ordained a Catholic priest “in due course,” according to a statement issued by the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham and the bishops’ conference of England and Wales.  …

Benedict XVI established the personal ordinariate in 2010, a canonical structure through which Anglicans wishing to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church could do so while retaining their Anglican patrimony. …

“Michael Nazir-Ali’s abandonment of the Anglican project in favour of seeking full Communion with Rome through the Ordinariate is a move of monumental proportion and significance,” said Gavin Ashenden, a former Anglican vicar and honorary chaplain to the Queen who was himself received into the Catholic Church in 2019.

Ashenden also observed that Nazir-Ali’s conversion is different to most high-profile Anglican converts in that they have tended to be people who identify as Anglo Catholics.

“The fact that Nazir Ali’s background is evangelical and more deeply rooted in the assumptions of the Protestant reformation makes the trajectory of his journey more significant and informative,” Ashenden told the Register.

Born in Karachi, Pakistan in 1949, Nazir-Ali has an Anglican, Catholic and Muslim background. …

Ashenden said that Nazir-Ali’s background in the Anglican Communion as an evangelical rather than Anglo-Catholic is significant in two ways: “The first is that the schism in the church rooted in the Reformation has run out of steam and has been replaced by a fresh but no less significant cultural and philosophical realignment; the struggle has coalesced into one between the remnants of Christendom and a fresh secular assault by (cultural) Marxism; two utopian visions in direct conflict.”

The second, Ashenden said, “is that, in Nazir-Ali’s judgement, Anglicanism has succumbed to the forces of progressive secularism and only the Catholic Church can be counted on to defend the faith against this new secularism that has such ambitious totalitarian instincts.

“The visionary project of Pope Benedict XVI’s Ordinariate will be significantly strengthened and encouraged by his conversion and membership,” he predicted.

Nazir-Ali’s reception into the Church comes on the heels of other prominent Anglicans. As well as Ashenden’s reception in 2019, last month the Anglican bishop of Ebbsfleet, Jonathan Goodall, entered the Catholic Church. https://www.ncregister.com/news/michael-nazir-ali-prominent-former-anglican-bishop-received-into-catholic-church

The Church of Rome attained unity with some Anglicans a decade or so ago.

The Anglican Church is based in England. Both biblical and Roman Catholic prophecy tell of the English peoples being taken over. This would indicate resistance to Rome’s agenda prior to the takeover–despite various Anglican leaders switching to Roman Catholicism.

Now, it does not surprise me that someone with a previous evangelical background, like Michael Nazir-Ali, switched to Roman Catholicism.

A review of history shows nothing resembling modern evangelicalism being practiced by early Christians. For details, check out the free online book: Hope of Salvation: How the Continuing Church of God Differs from Protestantism.

On the other hand, while the Church of Rome claims to represent original Christianity, the reality is that it DOES NOT HOLD TO THE ORIGINAL FAITH ONCE FOR ALL DELIVERED TO THE SAINTS. Details on this, including Greco-Roman translations of the Bible and quotes from early ones they consider to be saints prove this in the from online book: Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church.

Now, I wish to add that I do NOT believe that the true God is behind the ecumenical movement.

Notice that the Bible tells of a time of unity that comes after fleeing a Babylonian system:

6 “Up, up! Flee from the land of the north,” says the Lord; “for I have spread you abroad like the four winds of heaven,” says the Lord. 7 “Up, Zion! Escape, you who dwell with the daughter of Babylon.”

8 For thus says the Lord of hosts: “He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye. 9 For surely I will shake My hand against them, and they shall become spoil for their servants. Then you will know that the Lord of hosts has sent Me.

10 “Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion! For behold, I am coming and I will dwell in your midst,” says the Lord. 11 “Many nations shall be joined to the Lord in that day, and they shall become My people. And I will dwell in your midst. Then you will know that the Lord of hosts has sent Me to you. (Zechariah 2:6-11)

Notice that this unity happens after Jesus returns and warns against being involved with the end-time “daughter of Babylon.”

Do you understand the dangers of the ecumenical movement?

Concerns about this are not new. Notice the following from 1969 put out by the old Worldwide Church of God:

Why are the different branches of ‘Christianity’ talking about UNION? WHY is it possible for them to make overtures toward compromise? And anyway, is it not right that they should all GET TOGETHER? WHY should Christianity be divided? The Vatican Second Ecumenical Council is making many overtures toward both Protestants and the Eastern Orthodox church. They are even taking a conciliatory attitude toward Jews. Recently Pope Paul VI assured the non – Catholic Christian world of his purpose to clear away every obstacle blocking ‘Christian unity.

The BIG question is WHY is such compromise possible?

Can you imagine Jesus Christ beginning to compromise and get together with the Pharisees?

Did all the hundreds of differing and disagreeing sects and denominations calling themselves ‘Christian’ receive their varying faiths from the SAME SOURCE? Quite obviously not!

Now we ought to begin to see the answer to the question, HOW can these differing religious groups compromise and get together?…Since [the one and only true Church] is ruled and guided by the living God, whose written Word means what it says, it cannot and will not compromise or unite with the churches of this world. (Armstrong HW Personal from the Editor. Tomorrow’s World, September 1969).

What is ‘new’ is that ecumenical unity is getting closer to happening as many in Rome, Protestantism, and Eastern Orthodoxy want it to happen.

Compromise is not what Jesus taught His Church to do. Jude wrote:

3 I felt that I must write to you encouraging you to fight hard for the faith which has been once and for all entrusted to God’s holy people. (Jude 3, NJB)

That scripture would also not suggest that doctrinal compromise is appropriate for the faithful.

The Bible does tell of a time of ecumenical compromise and it does not do so in a positive manner.

Now that the Bible clearly warns against the Babylonian system:

2 And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! 3 For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.”

4 And I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached to heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities. (Revelation 18:2-5)

That is the system that the ecumenical movement trying to prop up. Sadly, people like Pope Francis and ichael Nazir-Ali have encouraged it.

Signs and lying wonders will deceive the vast bulk of humanity to one day accept it:

9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12)

1 Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name. 2 Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority. 3 And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast. 4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?”

5 And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months. 6 Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. 7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation. 8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (Revelation 13:1-8)

The time to stand up for the truth is now and not to wait until the signs and lying wonders appear which will deceive all who do not truly have the love of the truth (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). Those who wait too late to truly live like a real Christian will be deceived by what is going to come (Matthew 24:24).

The ‘fruits’ of the move toward Roman Catholicism will not be good (cf. Revelation chapter 17).

COGwriter

Years ago, UCG had an article titled Can Halloween Be Christianized?:

The fundamental argument in favor of mixing ancient pagan customs and practices with the worship of God is that some believe it is an effective way to gradually win people over to Christian understanding. (Of course, in the present world we should ask ourselves why people who already see themselves as Christian would find any need to continue associations with pagan religious customs.)

This is sometimes a hotly disputed subject, and sincere people have concluded it indeed is useful to integrate the practices of ancient religious customs with the worship of God.

But perhaps we should address a fundamental question: What does God advise?

There is a scriptural precedent that offers guidance and direction for those who accept the Bible’s instruction. The Israelites were confronted with these issues as they settled and built a new nation in the Promised Land. They encountered many worshipers of pagan deities as they entered the land and for centuries faced the problem as they dealt with neighboring peoples.

Even before they entered the land, God revealed His thinking and told them how to handle this challenge. His directions were explicit: “When the LORD your God cuts off from before you the nations which you go to dispossess, and you displace them and dwell in their land, take heed that you are not ensnared to follow them … Do not inquire after their gods, saying, ‘How did these nations serve their gods? I also will do likewise.’ You shall not worship the LORD your God in that way; for every abomination to the LORD which He hates they have done to their gods … Whatever I command you, be careful to observe it; you shall not add to it nor take away from it” (Deuteronomy 12:29-32).

God’s instructions are crystal clear. He refuses to accept worship that is compromised and tainted by customs used in the worship of fraudulent religion. He expects His worshipers to revere Him in accordance with His commands, not their own imaginings.

Many centuries later the apostle Paul expressed a similar thought when correcting some in the church in Corinth for their poor judgment. “What partnership can righteousness have with wickedness?” he asked. “Can light associate with darkness? Can Christ agree with [the devil] …? Can there be a compact between the temple of God and idols? And the temple of the living God is what we are” (2 Corinthians 6:14-16).

The modern debate over Christianizing pagan worship customs could be resolved simply by reading and heeding God’s plainly expressed will.

No real Christian should be debating as to whether or not to keep Halloween. Real Christians know that they should not. Perhaps it should be added that even the Church of Rome now discourages Halloween (for details see Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians?).

Back in 1969 Anton Lavey wrote The Satanic Bible. On page 96 (in the 1976 version) it mentions Halloween:

After one’s own birthday, the two major Satanic holidays are Walpurgisnacht and Halloween (or All Hallows’ Eve). (Lavey A, Gilmore P. The Satanic Bible. Avon, September 1, 1976, p. 96–note it is on page 53 of an online version I found also).

It is interesting that Halloween is considered one of the three most important holidays to these Satan worshipers (birthdays are actually number one according to Anton Lavey’s book).

The Bible never encourages the celebration of Halloween or other pagan worship practices. Instead, it tends to speak in a negative manner concerning them (cf. Matthew 14:6-11; Jeremiah 10; 20:14-18).

Despite all of this, many Roman Catholics and Protestants observe it. Notice something from the Protestant publication improperly named publication called Christianity Today:

October 28, 2016

Here are four reasons you might want to go trick-or-treating tonight:

1. There is no other night in the year when people you have not met will be coming to your door. You want to be there, meet them, and visit with them. If you are at a Halloween alternative, you miss your neighbors.

2. There is no other night when you get to go to your neighbor’s door and introduce yourself without any awkwardness (only if you have kids—otherwise it’s creepy and you should stay home and pass out candy). Tonight, you will meet people at your door and at their door—what an amazing opportunity.

Halloween trick-or-treating might be the best opportunity you have to connect with the unchurched all year.

3. You don’t have to worship the devil to go up and ask your neighbor for candy. Choose your costume and your words carefully, and many Christians find this an opportunity, not an occult experience. I know the history of Halloween, but your neighbors don’t, so don’t assume they are participating in some dark ritual if it has lost all that meaning. (Now, if you are opposed to Easter eggs, Christmas trees, and the like, I would definitely not go out on Halloween or else you are being inconsistent to your convictions.)

4. You can meet more neighbors in one night than any other day of the year. Don’t miss the best opportunity you have each year to meet your neighbors. And, while you do, get their names and numbers and have them over for dinner. Get to know them, and start tonight. http://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2016/october/new-lifeway-research-pastors-and-halloween.html

Well, you certainly are not setting a truly ‘Christian’ example for your neighbors by endorsing a pagan holiday. A holiday intended to honor the spirits, increase consumption of sweets, and one where many wear lewd costumes.

Neighbors pretty much do NOT want you to trick-or-treat and then try to convert them. But the author is right for implying that many holidays Catholics and Protestants observe are also filled with paganism (see also Should You Observe God’s Holy Days or Demonic Holidays?)–but certainly multiple wrongs do not make a right.

Many claim Christians should celebrate it.

But what about the Bible?

The Continuing Church of God is pleased to announce this sermon from its ContinuingCOG channel:

1:14:04

Halloween: Are there 7 reasons for Christians to celebrate it? What about the Bible?

First Baptist Pastor Alan Rudnik has posted seven reasons he feels that a Christian should celebrate Halloween, which he ties to ‘All Saints’ Day’ as well as the Druids. In this sermon, Dr. Thiel challenges each of those seven reasons and gives biblical and historical rationale for Christians NOT celebrating Halloween, All Saints’ Day, All Souls’ Day, and the Day of the Dead. Dr. Thiel even mentions the ties to the Pantheon. While Alan Rudnik only cited one scripture, Dr. Thiel cites many and explains not only what the Bible teaches, but what the practices of the early Christians were related to holy days.

Here is a link to the sermon: Halloween: Are there 7 reasons for Christians to celebrate it? What about the Bible?

Some items of related interest may include:

Is Halloween Holy Time for Christians? Here are some historical and biblical insight on this question. There are many cultures that have celebrations and observances that are similar to some associated with Halloween. What did the Druids do? Is Halloween one of the most important holidays for Satanists? Do the Japanese, Indians, and Chinese have any practices that are similar to some associated with Halloween? Does the Bible endorse or condemn practices that are associated with Halloween? Here are links to three related sermonette length videos: Debunking 17 reasons to celebrate Halloween, Halloween: Are there 7 reasons for Christians to celebrate it?, and International ‘Halloween’ Should Christians observe Halloween?
Hope of Salvation: How the Continuing Church of God Differs from Protestantism The CCOG is NOT Protestant. This free online book explains how the real Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants. Several sermons related to the free book are also available: Protestant, Baptist, and CCOG History; The First Protestant, God’s Command, Grace, & Character; The New Testament, Martin Luther, and the Canon; Eucharist, Passover, and Easter; Views of Jews, Lost Tribes, Warfare, & Baptism; Scripture vs. Tradition, Sabbath vs. Sunday; Church Services, Sunday, Heaven, and God’s Plan; Seventh Day Baptists/Adventists/Messianics: Protestant or COG?; Millennial Kingdom of God and God’s Plan of Salvation; Crosses, Trees, Tithes, and Unclean Meats; The Godhead and the Trinity; Fleeing or Rapture?; and Ecumenism, Rome, and CCOG Differences.
All Saints’ Day, the Day of the Dead, and All Souls’ Day When did “All Saints Day” and the “Day of the Dead” begin? “What about All Soul’s Day”? Here is a link to a related sermon: All Hallowed Saints’ Day of the Dead.
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. 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.

A photostatic copy of a page from Ilustração Portugueza, October 29, 1917

COGWriter

Today is the 104th anniversary of something commonly called ‘the miracle of the sun.’ In the past to commemorate it, Pope Francis ‘dedicated the world’ essentially to a statue that was supposed to be that of the “Lady” that appeared in 1917. He is intending on ‘celebrating’ this ‘miracle’ today (watch Fatima and Pope Francis).

Lucia Santos, one of three children who saw the apparition, wrote that the ‘Lady’ told her the following on July 13, 1917:

I want you to come here on the 13th of next month, to continue to pray the Rosary, every day in honor of Our Lady of the Rosary, in order to obtain peace for the world and the end of war, because only she can help you. …

Continue to come here every month. In October, I will tell you who I am and what I want, and I will perform a miracle for all to see and believe. (Santos, p. 178).

Lucia wrote that the ‘Lady’ told her the following on August 15, 1917:

I want you to continue going to the Cova da Iria on the 13th, and to continue to pray the Rosary every day. In the last month, I will perform a miracle so that all may believe. (Santos, p. 180).

Lucia wrote that the ‘Lady’ told her the following on September 13, 1917:

Continue to pray the Rosary in order to obtain the end of the war. In October, the Lord will come as well as Our Lady of Dolours and Our Lady of Carmel. Saint Joseph will appear with the Child Jesus to bless the world. God is pleased with your sacrifices. He does not want you to sleep with the rope on, but only to wear it during the day. (Santos, p. 181)

The “rope” was intended to cause pain and discomfort. This was part of the “suffering for sinners” that the Lady wanted the children of Fatima to endure. “Our Lady of Dolours” means Our Lady of Sorrows.

Since the 15th century, popular devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel has centered on the Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, also known as the Brown Scapular, a sacramental associated with promises of Mary’s special aid for the salvation of the devoted wearer. (Wikipedia, accessed 09/13/17)

On October 13, 1917 the ‘Lady’ was seen by three Portuguese children: Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco. Though others did not see her, there was apparently some type of change in the sky on October 13, 1917 that many others (supposedly around 70,000) reportedly witnessed. Every year, throngs of people visit Fatima this day because of it (others visit throughout the year, but the 13th of May and the 13th of October seem to be the most attended times). The “Lady” that appeared gave various messages that many believe have been confirmed by world events. Millions falsely believe that the “Lady of Fatima” was Jesus’ mother Mary.

As far as this “miracle of the sun” goes, let me simply state that there were various accounts of what was seen and I do not believe it was a miracle from God. Yet, many associated with the Church of Rome believe it and will not believe what actually appeared in Fatima, Portugal.

Fatima Chapel Statue and What the Fatima Children Said They Saw

They believe that something looking like the statue to the left appeared, whereas as three of the witnesses who claimed to see it described something that looked like the statue to the right. This fact alone should be evidence that whatever happened on October 13, 1917 was not a miracle of God. Details on this are in the article: Fatima and the ‘Miracle of the Sun’.

Since we in the Continuing Church of God do not believe that Mary, the mother of Jesus, appeared in Fatima, Portugal in 1917, why pay attention to this?

There are several reasons. Notice three:

1) Some of the events claimed to have been predicted in 1917 (though not written down until years later) appear to have taken place. This has given the Fatima messages credibility even among those not part of the Catholic faith. Various Catholics believe more strongly in Fatima than the Bible.

2) The Fatima appearances, though not necessarily all the messages, have been accepted as legitimate and/or “worthy of belief” by the Vatican. As there are at least 1-2 billion people with at least some minimal ties with the Church of Rome, this means that a huge portion of the West (Europe and the Western Hemisphere), as well as people throughout the rest of the world, have reasons to pay attention to the Fatima messages. The current pontiff takes Fatima seriously and had his pontificate dedicated to the “Lady of Fatima” on May 13, 2013 (the 96th anniversary of the first appearance of the”Lady” to the children in Fatima).

3) Some of the Fatima messages are claimed to still be for the future. And whether people believe them or not, there will be repercussions from them. Some of those repercussions will likely shock the world. If you survive, you will likely be affected by these repercussions in the not too distant future. This is mainly because of warnings in the Bible about a woman (Isaiah 47) that seems to have had a lot in common with the apparition that supposedly appeared nearly a century ago.

Furthermore, the Bible warns that signs and lying wonders will deceive those that do not have the love of the truth (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). And prophecies in both the Old and New Testaments suggest that a “Lady” who is considered a virgin will be involved in deceit.

And while I (who have looked into Fatima extensively) do not believe that Mary of the Bible appeared there, it is likely that messages believed to have been given will affect the world again.

Notice also the following:

12 October 2019

MANILA – A Fatima crusader on Saturday called on the faithful to repent and pray the Rosary every day in response to the request of the Blessed Virgin Mary for the world to attain genuine and lasting peace.

“The world is currently undergoing purification because of the sin of mankind, but in the end the Immaculate Heart of Mary will triumph,” Rev. Fr. Homer Prieto of the Fatima Parish Church in Cubao, Quezon City said when asked about the troubles happening around the world today, on the eve of the 102nd anniversary of sixth and final apparition by the Blessed Virgin before three young shepherds in Fatima, Portugal on Oct. 13, 1917. … In the Philippines, the only Catholic country in Asia, many churches have been named after Fatima. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1082987

No, praying the rosary will not bring world peace. The ‘Lady of Fatima’ is NOT the answer–the Gospel of the Kingdom of God is.

Fatima has been a concern for a long time. Notice something that the late Church of God evangelist Raymond McNair wrote:

In the German Süddeutsche Zeitung there was an article in which it was revealed that Pope Paul VI had received a message in Fatima through the only remaining shepherd girl (who is now a nun). They were seen quite some time together and it appeared as if she had something to say to him. When asked in Rome, after his return, if his visit to Fatima was a success, Pope Paul said: ” I went to Fatima to pray for peace to the Virgin Mary and I received the answer how to, achieve this peace.”

There are many rumors that he did receive a message, but he has not wanted to divulge it.

Since the pilgrimage to Fatima, the Pope has spoken out on Jerusalem- demanding it become an international city. What most do not know is that there is evidence the Vatican has plans to move from Rome to Jerusalem … This event will stir the world! It will be the Pope ‘s final effort as the world’s peacemaker! (McNair R. The Real Meaning Behind POPE PAUL’S PILGRIMAGE TO PORTUGAL. Plain Truth, June 1967, pp. 3, 47)

Jerusalem will become increasingly important to Catholics in the near future. The Papacy will, as previously reported in The PLAIN TRUTH, be moved from Rome to Jerusalem … Bible prophecy is very explicit on this point. Furthermore, according to a recent report in a leading German newspaper, the Third Fatima Message is reported (by inside, informed Vatican sources) to reveal that there will be a terrible World War III, during which (according to this Fatima Vision) both Rome and the Vatican will be destroyed! Could this possibly explain why the Vatican will be moved to Jerusalem? (McNair R. POPE MEETS PATRIARCH. Plain Truth, October 1967)

Like me, Raymond McNair (and the old Radio Church of God, who published the above) was aware that Catholic actions can be influenced by Marian apparitions and Catholic private prophecies. Fatima is more important to the Church of Rome than most non-Catholics realize.

Pope Francis had his pontificate dedicated to the ‘Lady of Fatima’ and has been promoting his version of ‘Mary’ since his pontificate began. He has been influenced by Marian apparitions and private prophecies, including Fatima.

Pope Francis offered special indulgences related to Fatima. This way, one can get out of purgatory almost free in 2017:

Pope Francis has granted a plenary indulgence opportunity throughout the Fatima Anniversary Year.

There are three ways of obtaining the indulgence.
To obtain the plenary indulgence, the faithful must also fulfill the ordinary conditions: Go to confession and Communion, be interiorly detached from sin, and pray for the intentions of the Holy Father.

1 – Pilgrimage to the Shrine
Make a pilgrimage to the Fatima shrine in Portugal and participate in a celebration or prayer dedicated to the Virgin. In addition, the faithful must pray the Our Father, recite the Creed and invoke the Mother of God.

2 – Prayer before any statue of Our Lady of Fatima
Visit with devotion a statue of Our Lady of Fatima solemnly exposed for public veneration in any church, oratory or proper place during the days of the anniversary of the apparitions, the 13th of each month from May to October (2017): there devoutly participate in some celebration or prayer in honor of Our Lady.

3 – Application for the elderly and infirm
Those who, because of age, illness or other serious cause are unable to get around well, can pray in front of a statue of Our Lady of Fatima and spiritually unite themselves to the jubilee celebrations on the days of the apparitions, the 13th of each month, between May and October 2017.

They also must “offer to our merciful God with confidence, through Mary, their prayers and sufferings or the sacrifices they make in their own lives.” http://livingfatima.com/plenary-indulgence-for-the-100th-anniversary-of-fatima/ accessed 09/11/17

I will add that my wife and I were offered a plenary indulgence if we were in the audience to see Pope Francis the last time we were in Rome. We declined. We have also visited the Fatima shrine, but that was in 2011, hence we were not granted a plenary indulgence for that. And, of course, we also did not pray in devotion to Mary before any statue.

Catholics should consider what the ‘Lady’ of Fatima reportedly said on the day of the ‘miracle of the sun.’ Notice what Lúcia wrote that the apparition said on October 13, 1917:

I want to tell to you that a chapel is to be built here in my honour.

And this happened, as my wife and I actually visited that Capelinha in Fatima in 2011.

Anyway, the request from the apparition was not only immodest, it seemed to violate what the Bible tells people to do:

31 Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatsoever else you do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31, DRB)

29 …no flesh should glory in his sight… (1 Corinthians 1:29, DRB)

11 …every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:11, DRB)

9 Not to us, O Lord, not to us; but to thy name give glory. (Psalms 113:9, DRB)

Mary is not God. Despite her role as the mother of Christ (and yes, I believe that Jesus is God lest someone criticize me for using this expression), no proper Roman or Eastern Orthodox Catholic (or Protestant for that matter) believes that Mary is God either.

It is important to note that the apparition wanted a chapel built essentially for her glory. That is not what a true follower of Christ would have done. Mary of the Bible did not do that nor drop any hint that she ever would do that. A “Marian” apparition that appeared to Estelle Faguette at Pellevoisin, France in 1876 said, “I choose the little ones and the weak ones for my glory.”

But God specifically said the weak were chosen for His (not Mary’s) glory (1 Corinthians 1:27-29), so that apparition was false also. Actually, statements from many “approved apparitions” have requested actions for their glory or otherwise contradicted scripture.

Lúcia, herself, claimed, “The Rosary and Scapular are inseparable.”

A brown scapular originally was a wool object that sometimes comes in the form of metals instead. It seems to be worn like a medallion.

“Sister Lúcia has said all Catholics should wear the Brown Scapular as part of the Fatima message.”

Supposedly, when the apparition appeared on October 13, 1917, Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta saw her hold a brown scapular in her hand.

“At the end of the 40s…Lúcia… recalled that the Blessed Virgin…wished that devotion of the holy Scapular be propagated.”

Of course, if Mary actually wanted this, it seems odd that it took Lúcia decades to tell this to anybody.

“The Brown Scapular is part of a religious habit belonging in its own right to the Carmelite order. Devotion for the Scapular of Our Lady of Carmel was born in the 13th century when after being purchased from Palestine by the Saracens, the Carmelite brothers encountered great difficulties in getting established in Europe and elsewhere…

Simon Stock, elected Prior General of the order in 1247, had, a few years later an apparition…presenting the Scapular to him as a sign of salvation for his brothers.”

The pushing for Fatima and related wonders will have ramifications in the world according to both Catholic and biblical (Isaiah 47; Nahum 3:4-5; cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12; Revelation 17 & 18) prophecy. No one should accept false claims about apparitions that many consider to be Jesus’ mother Mary.

False claims about ‘Mary’ are expected to be used as part of the ecumenical and interfaith agendas that Pope Francis and others are pushing. Do not fall for them.

For more information on Fatima and other mystic Catholic claims, please check out the following:

Fatima and the ‘Miracle of the Sun’ On October 13, 1917, tens of thousands of people witnessed what they considered to be a miracle in the sky in Fatima, Portugal. Was this a miracle from God? Can you be certain? Here is a link to the sermon: Fatima and the ‘Miracle of the Sun’.
Fatima and Pope Francis Could end time prophecies be fulfilled by apparitions? May 13, 2017 marked the 100th anniversary of a ‘Lady’ that appeared before three shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal. Pope Francis declared them Catholic saints on the 100th anniversary–how did the children describe what they saw? Is it possible that Jesus’ mother Mary appeared at Fatima? Could signs and lying wonders come from apparitions? How could the Fatima hype be setting the world up for the end? Did the old Radio Church of God teach about Fatima? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues and more. This is a video.
Mary, the Mother of Jesus and the Apparitions Do you know much about Mary? Are the apparitions real? What happened at Fatima? What might they mean for the rise of the ecumenical religion of Antichrist? Are Protestants moving towards Mary? How do the Eastern/Greek Orthodox view Mary? How might Mary view her adorers? Here is a link to a YouTube video Marian Apparitions May Fulfill Prophecy.
Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church. 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, and What Type of Catholic was Polycarp of Smyrna?, Tradition, Holy Days, Salvation, Dress, & Celibacy, and Early Heresies and Heretics, and Doctrines: 3 Days, Abortion, Ecumenism, Meats, Tithes, Crosses, Destiny, and more, and Saturday or Sunday?, and The Godhead.
Will the Interfaith Movement Lead to Peace or Sudden Destruction? Is the interfaith movement going to lead to lasting peace or is it warned against? A video sermon of related interest is: Will the Interfaith Movement lead to World War III? and three video sermonette are also available:  Pope Francis signs ‘one world religion’ document! and The Chrislam Cross and the Interfaith Movement and Do You Know That Babylon is Forming?
Pope Francis: Could this Marian Focused Pontiff be Fulfilling Prophecy? Pope Francis has taken many steps to turn people more towards his version of ‘Mary.’ Could this be consistent with biblical and Catholic prophecies? This article documents what has been happening. There is also a video version titled Pope Francis: Could this Marian Focused Pontiff be Fulfilling Prophecy?
Feast of the Immaculate Conception? Did early Christians teach Mary had an immaculate conception and led a sinless life?
Origin of the Marian Dogmas: Where Do Catholic Scholars Say The Four Dogmas of Mary Came From?
Assumption of Mary Did Mary die? Was she taken to heaven on August 15th? What is known? What does the Bible show?
Christ or Antichrist? 1961 article by David Jon Hill, originally published in the old Good News magazine.
Will You Be Deceived by Antichrist? 1964 article by David Jon Hill, originally published in the old Good News magazine.
Satan’s Plan Does Satan have a plan? What is it? Has it already been successful? Will it be successful in the future? Here are links to a two-part sermon series: What are Some of the Parts of Satan’s Plan? and Satan’s Plan is More Dramatic than Many Realize.
Do Certain Catholic Prophecies About Antichrist Warn Against Jesus? Will the final “Anti-Christ” be Jewish, insist on Saturday, be opposed to the trinity, and bring in the millennium? Certain Catholic writings indicate this, while others take a different view, but what does the Bible show? A related sermon is Will Jesus Christ be called the Antichrist?
Catholic Prophecies: Do They Mirror, Highlight, or Contradict Biblical Prophecies? People of all faiths may be surprised to see what various Roman and Orthodox Catholic prophets have been predicting as many of their predictions will be looked to in the 21st century.
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. Here are links to three related sermons: The World’s False Gospel, The Gospel of the Kingdom: From the New and Old Testaments, and The Kingdom of God is the Solution.
Fatima Shock! What the Vatican Does Not Want You to Know About Fatima, Dogmas of Mary, and Future Apparitions. Whether or not you believe anything happened at Fatima, if you live long enough, you will be affected by its ramifications (cf. Isaiah 47; Revelation 17). Fatima Shock! is a highly documented book by Bob Thiel for those interested in the real truth about Fatima and how future apparitions may affect the future. In addition to the print version, there is a Kindle version of Fatima Shock! which you can acquire in seconds.

Portrait of a man said to be Christopher Columbus (Wikipedia)

COGwriter

Today, used to be simply called Columbus Day in the USA, but that changed in this century. Voice of America reported the following:

US Observes Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples Day

October 11, 2021

The United States observes its Columbus Day holiday on Monday as well Indigenous Peoples Day.

Columbus Day has been a federal holiday since 1971 to celebrate the 1492 landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas.

Recognition of the violence, disease and other suffering inflicted by European nations on the people already living in the Western Hemisphere has in recent years prompted a reevaluation of the holiday, including calls for its abolishment and new commemorations of indigenous populations.

U.S. President Joe Biden last week issued the first-ever presidential proclamation of Indigenous Peoples Day to be observed Monday.

“Today, we also acknowledge the painful history of wrongs and atrocities that many European explorers inflicted on tribal nations and indigenous communities,” Biden wrote. “It is a measure of our greatness as a nation that we do not seek to bury these shameful episodes of our past — that we face them honestly, we bring them to the light, and we do all we can to address them.” https://www.voanews.com/a/us-observes-columbus-day-indigenous-peoples-day/6265612.html

Joe Biden is correct that there were many “wrongs and atrocities that many European explorers inflicted on tribal nations and indigenous communities.”

Christopher Columbus was a flawed, and often cruel, visionary. Yet, God’s Grace is For All.

A while back, a reader sent me a link to a paper about some of Christopher Columbus’ flawed religious plans:

Americans outside the rarefied circle of Columbus scholars still know little about the man and his mission … his ultimate goal, the purpose behind the enterprise, was Jerusalem!

The 26 December 1492 entry in his journal of the first voyage, hereafter referred to as the Diario, written in the Caribbean, leaves little doubt. He says he wanted to find enough gold and the almost equally valuable spices “in such quantity that the sovereigns… will undertake and prepare to go conquer the Holy Sepulchre; for thus I urged Your Highnesses to spend all the profits of this my enterprise on the conquest of Jerusalem” (Diario 1492[1988: 291, my emphasis]). This statement implies that it was not the first time Columbus had mentioned the motivation for his undertaking, nor was it to be the last. Columbus wanted to launch a new Crusade to take back the Holy Land from the infidels (the Muslims). This desire was not merely to reclaim the land of the Bible and the place where Jesus had walked; it was part of the much larger and widespread, apocalyptic scenario in which Columbus and many of his contemporaries believed. That scenario, derived from the biblical book of Revelation, claims that the conversion of all peoples to Christianity and the re-conquest of Jerusalem are necessary preconditions for the “Second Coming” when Christ will return before the “End of Days.” Columbus felt strongly the imminence of this event; he also came to feel that he had a providential role to play in the drama. There is considerable evidence from his contemporaries and his own writings, especially in the little known Libro de las profecı´as, or Book of Prophecies, that these were longstanding beliefs of Columbus. …

The Libro is not really a book in the conventional sense, but rather a collection of passages culled from the Bible (Genesis to Revelation); numerous ancient authors such as Aristotle, Ptolemy, Seneca; church fathers such as Augustine, Jerome, Chrysostom; and medieval authors including Aquinas, d’Ailly, Joachim of Fiore, and Roger Bacon. It also includes extracts from the Qur’an and the writings of a number of Muslims such as Alfraganus and Averroes. This collection was meant to be used in the composition of a long poem to be presented to the King and Queen. The poem was never completed, but the original manuscript has, amazingly, survived, and today it is housed at the Biblioteca Columbina attached to the Cathedral in Seville.

It is believed the Libro de las profecı´as was compiled during the period between Columbus’s return from the third voyage in late October 1500 and the beginning of the fourth voyage in May 1502. However a passage referring to being in Jamaica in 1504 may indicate that he took a draft along on the final voyage in order to make additions or corrections suggested by his friend Fray Gaspar Gorricio, a Carthusian monk. …

The cover letter that Columbus inserted in the notebook begins: “Most Christian and very exalted princes, the reason which I have for the restitution of the Holy Sepulchre to the Holy Church militant is the following” (Libro 1500–1502 [Thacher 1904, vol. III: 660]). It is an urgent letter that warns them the end of the world will take place in 155 years. This date was arrived at by the common practice of using biblical genealogies to calculate the number of years from Creation, to Christ, to the current year. In this instance Columbus cites Elucidario astronomice concordie cum theological & hystorica veritate by his most crucial source—Pierre d’Ailly: “From Adam to our Lord Jesus Christ there are 5343 years and 318 days, according to the account of the King Don Alonso [sic; should be Alfonso] … adding to this 1501 incomplete years [i.e., the year he is writing], makes in all 6845” (Libro 1500–1502 [Thacher 1904, vol. III: 662]). The end point is fixed—the duration of the world is only seven millennia based on the notion that the seven days of Creation compute to seven thousand earth years. Columbus cites “St. Augustine who says that the end of this world is to come in the seventh millenary of years from its creation… [so] according to this account, there are only lacking 155 years to complete the 7000, in which year … the world must end” (op. cit). …

In late fifteenth- and early sixteenth-century Spain there was a widely circulated notion of “a last world emperor” who would fulfill what was known as the unum ovile et unun pastor prophecy of John, 10: 16: “And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd” (my emphasis). This emperor would fight the Antichrist and reestablish Christian sovereignty over Jerusalem and the Holy Land. As noted, Columbus believed this ruler was to come from Spain; https://www.amherst.edu/system/files/columbus.pdf accessed 01/25/20

So, let us consider some of this and its possible ramifications.

First, yes, it was long believed that God had a seven-thousand year plan. The ‘school of Elijah’ has been credited as the source, and that would have been 8 or 9 centuries before Jesus was born on the earth.

Jews and early Christians believed this.

However, Christopher Columbus (known in Spanish as Cristóbal Colón) was in error about the timing.

Not only is the 7,000 years not up, the 6000 years God allowed humans to rule themselves is not yet up, but is quite close to being so (see Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End?).

Next, the Book of Revelation says nothing about Christians trying to take over Jerusalem prior to the second coming of Jesus.

However, Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies, which also discuss a coming human emperor (often called “the Great Monarch” who seems to have a lot in common with the biblical King of the North) do.

Notice some Catholic private prophecies/writings that support the view that this leader, like the biblical King of the North, has a major impact in Jerusalem towards the beginning of his reign:

St. Thomas a’Beckett (12th century): A knight shall come from the West. He shall capture … the three Crowns. He shall then sail … and reach Christ’s grave where he will fight. (Dupont Y. Catholic Prophecy: The Coming Chastisement. TAN Books, Rockford (IL), 1973, p.16)

Blessed Joannes Amadeus de Sylva (died 1482): Germany and Spain will unite under a great prince … After much slaughtering, the other nations will be forced to come into this union. There is no hope for the unbelievers until all of Germany is converted; then all will happen quickly … the time will be prolonged until all countries unite under the Great Ruler. After this union, mass conversions will take place … (Connor, Prophecy for Today, p. 34). Connor, p. 34).

Abbot ‘Merlin’ Joachim (died 1202) A remarkable Pope … shall recover the kingdom of Jerusalem … in order to obtain these happy results, having need of powerful assistance, this Holy Pontiff will ask the cooperation of the generous monarch of France (Great Monarch). (Connor, Edward. Prophecy for Today. Imprimatur + A.J. Willinger, Bishop of Monterey-Fresno; Reprint: Tan Books and Publishers, Rockford (IL), 1984, p. 32)

Eastern Orthodox Scholar Helen Tzima Otto (2000): Of course, Jerusalem will be invaded in WWIII and finally liberated by the Great Monarch. (Tzima Otto, H. The Great Monarch and WWIII in Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Scriptural Prophecies. Verenika Press, Rock City (SC), 2000, p. 316)

Monk Adso (10th century). “Some of our Teachers say that a King of the Franks will possess the entire Roman Empire. He will be the greatest and the last of all Monarchs. After having wisely governed his kingdom, he will go in the end to Jerusalem and will lay down his sceptre and his crown upon the Mount of Olives…” (Dupont, p.18).

It would seem that Christopher Columbus was aware of some of those Catholic prophecies.

Sadly, when many people see some of what Jesus said that they should be looking for, instead of being concerned about this leader, they will apparently embrace him.

There are, however, some Greco-Roman Catholics (apparently a minority) who could oppose this as the following suggests:

Catholic writer Paul Thigpen warns, “Looking for the Great Monarch, then, who does not appear in Scripture, might lead to overlooking the Antichrist who does. It might even lead to–a more disturbing thought–to mistaking the Antichrist for the Great Monarch. After all, lesser antichrists of the past such as Hitler and Stalin have seduced followers with visions of grand and glorious earthly kingdoms. Surely Antichrist of the last days will do the same.” (Penn L. False dawn: the United Religions Initiative, globalism, and the quest for a one-world religion. Sophia Perennis, 2005, p. 420)

Priest Herman Kramer (20th century): The False Prophet … will persuade all infidels, apostates and apostate nations to worship and adore him … Antichrist “sitteth in the temple of God” (I Thes. II. 4) … possibly one of the churches in Jerusalem or St. Peter’s in Rome … The False Prophet will proclaim the resurrection of the Roman Empire … The word “image” is in the singular number, indicating only one statue, which he may set up in the great church, St. Peter’s (Kramer H.B. L. The Book of Destiny. Nihil Obstat: J.S. Considine, O.P., Censor Deputatus. Imprimatur: +Joseph M. Mueller, Bishop of Sioux City, Iowa, January 26, 1956. Reprint TAN Books, Rockford (IL), p. 320-323).

The King of the North, presuming he is also considered to be the Great Monarch, will be involved with Jerusalem and biblically is dangerous.

Additionally, some Catholic writers clearly have understood that the two-horned beast in Revelation 13 is likely to be an antipope and that a negative power will be established in Jerusalem:

Priest E. Sylvester Berry (published 1920): The two horns denote a twofold authority – spiritual and temporal. As indicated by the resemblance to a lamb, the prophet will probably set himself up in Rome as a sort of anti-pope…Antichrist will establish himself in Jerusalem…with his ‘lying wonders’… (Berry ES. The Apocalypse of St. John, 1920. Quoted in Culleton RG. The Reign of Antichrist. Reprint 1974, TAN Books, Rockford (IL), pp. 199-200).

Much of the above teaching is consistent with certain scriptures.

Although most in the Protestant world that watch prophecy, as well as perhaps most in the Catholic world, have confused who the Antichrist is (many modern Protestants think he is the Beast of the Sea), various Catholic sources have correctly declared that the False Prophet is (or likely is) the final Antichrist. This was also the position of the Catholic saint Augustine (Augustine. City of God, Book XX, Chapter 14. Translated by Marcus Dods. From Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, First Series, Vol. 2. Edited by Philip Schaff. (Buffalo, NY: Christian Literature Publishing Co., 1887.) Revised and edited for New Advent by Kevin Knight. <http://www.newadvent.org/fathers/120120.htm>.Culleton, The Reign of Antichrist, p. 117).

Anyway, part of the point of this post is to emphasize that Christopher Columbus was highly influenced by Catholic prophecy.

It was a driving factor for him. It partially led to him changing the world.

Do not think that in the 21st century that the world will not be affected by Greco-Roman Catholic and other non-biblical prophecies.

Many are part of Satan’s plan.

That being said, the local school district here stopped having Columbus Day as a holiday several years ago.

They felt that Columbus should not be honored in light of various atrocities he was involved in.

The fact remains, however, that Columbus did open up the Americas (yes, I know there is evidence that various others, like the Vikings, came to the Americas before him) to the world and that God does have a plan that is being worked out on this earth.

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Satan’s Plan Does Satan have a plan? What is it? Has it already been successful? Will it be successful in the future? Here are links to a two-part sermon series: What are Some of the Parts of Satan’s Plan? and Satan’s Plan is More Dramatic than Many Realize.
Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End? Was a 6000 year time allowed for humans to rule followed by a literal thousand year reign of Christ on Earth taught by the early Christians? Does God have 7,000 year plan? What year may the six thousand years of human rule end? When will Jesus return? 2029 or 20xx? There is also a video titled 6000 Years: When will God’s Kingdom Come? Here is a link to the article in Spanish: ¿Tiene Dios un plan de 6,000 años?
Might the U.S.A. Be Gone by 2028? Are there prophetic reasons to believe that the USA will not last two complete presidential terms? Yes. There is a tradition attributed to the Hebrew prophet Elijah that humanity had 6,000 years to live before being replaced by God’s Kingdom. There are scriptures, writings in the Talmud, early Christian teachings that support this. Also, even certain Hindu writings support it. Here is a link to a related video: Is the USA prophesied to be destroyed by 2028? In Spanish: Seran los Estados Unidos Destruidos en el 2028?
The Great Tribulation: What Happens First? What events have happened? What are some events that are now happening? And what events need to happen for the Great Tribulation to start? Here is a link to a related sermon video: Counting Down to the Great Tribulation. Here is a video in the Spanish language: Contando los eventos y el inicio de la Gran Tribulación.
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2021, 2022, or 2023? 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? Here is a version of the article in the Spanish language: ¿Puede la Gran Tribulación comenzar en el 2020 o 2021? ¿Es el Tiempo de los Gentiles? A related video is: 2021: The Great Tribulation or the Great Reset? Here is a video in the Spanish language: Es El 2021 el año de La Gran Tribulación o el Grande Reseteo Financiero.
The Times of the Gentiles Has there been more than one time of the Gentiles? Are we in it now or in the time of Anglo-America? What will the final time of the Gentiles be like? A related sermon is available and is titled: The Times of the Gentiles.
Armageddon Who is involved and when will this gathering happen? Here is also a video from Dr. Thiel, from Tel Megiddo in Israel: Armageddon. Other videos include: Armageddon Will it come on Trump’s watch?, Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy, Freemasonry, Armageddon, and Rome, Is China paving roads to Armageddon?, and Jordan, Petra, and Armageddon.
Who is the King of the North? Is there one? Do biblical and Roman Catholic prophecies for the Great Monarch point to the same leader? Should he be followed? Who will be the King of the North discussed in Daniel 11? Is a nuclear attack prophesied to happen to the English-speaking peoples of the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand? When do the 1335 days, 1290 days, and 1260 days (the time, times, and half a time) of Daniel 12 begin? When does the Bible show that economic collapse will affect the United States? In the Spanish language check out ¿Quién es el Rey del Norte? Here are links to two related videos: The King of the North is Alive: What to Look Out For and The Future King of the North.
The Great Monarch: Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Is the ‘Great Monarch’ of Catholic prophecies endorsed or condemned by the Bible? Two sermons of related interest are also available: Great Monarch: Messiah or False Christ? and Great Monarch in 50+ Beast Prophecies.
Some Doctrines of Antichrist Are there any doctrines taught outside the Churches of God which can be considered as doctrines of antichrist? This article suggests at least three. It also provides information on 666 and the identity of “the false prophet.” Plus it shows that several Catholic writers seem to warn about an ecumenical antipope that will support heresy. You can also watch a video titled What Does the Bible teach about the Antichrist?
God’s Grace is For All Is being Jewish a hindrance to salvation? What about not being a descendant of Israel? What does the Bible really teach? Here is a link to a related sermon titled Race and Grace; Do you view race as God does? Watch also Mystery of Race.