{"id":62153,"date":"2020-05-13T07:00:31","date_gmt":"2020-05-13T15:00:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/?p=62153"},"modified":"2020-05-14T04:17:53","modified_gmt":"2020-05-14T12:17:53","slug":"voa-are-religious-services-essential-during-pandemic-cogwriter-yes-true-christians-should-gather-together-though-atheists-do-not-understand","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/religious-news\/voa-are-religious-services-essential-during-pandemic-cogwriter-yes-true-christians-should-gather-together-though-atheists-do-not-understand\/","title":{"rendered":"VOA: Are Religious Services ‘Essential’ During Pandemic? COGwriter: Yes, true Christians should ‘gather together,’ though atheists do not understand."},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"
\nArtist’s portrayal of Peter and John
\ngoing to prepare for the Passover
\n<\/em><\/p>\n

COGwriter<\/a><\/p>\n

Voice of America<\/em> (VOA) posted the following:<\/p>\n

\n

Are Religious Services ‘Essential’ During Pandemic?<\/h2>\n

May 13, 2020<\/p>\n

[Louisiana Gov.] John Bel Edwards … issued a stay-at-home mandate for Louisiana on March 23 that remains in effect. The order limits the operation of businesses that government and health officials consider nonessential.<\/p>\n

Of the categories of activities restricted, religious services have been among the most contentious.<\/p>\n

Louisiana joined more than two-thirds of the U.S. states in prohibiting or substantially restricting in-person prayer to limit the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Edwards has capped the number of individuals able to worship at once at 10.<\/p>\n

Churches across the country have temporarily switched to online services to accommodate the restrictions, but some believe these mandates constitute a violation of their religious freedom.<\/p>\n

One of the most visible challenges to coronavirus-related mandates has come from Life Tabernacle Church pastor Tony Spell, who continues to hold weekly in-person services with hundreds of congregants despite being placed under house arrest for violating the order.<\/p>\n

Many religious Americans sympathize with the desire to congregate and pray together during these challenging times, but they worry churches like Life Tabernacle are unnecessarily putting the public at risk.<\/p>\n

\u201cSurely there\u2019s a way to worship without sacrificing the wellness of the world,\u201d said Amanda Pitts, who has attended virtual services with her Texas church since the pandemic began.<\/p>\n

But Slaughter insists it\u2019s precisely Life Tabernacle\u2019s in-person services that have maintained her wellness, as well as the wellness of many of her fellow congregants.<\/p>\n

Who\u2019s essential?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Slaughter\u2019s defense of her church\u2019s right to hold services is more personal than a debate about the First Amendment. …<\/p>\n

She says just as the government is prioritizing certain types of businesses, virtual services require the church to call upon what she says are its most \u201cessential\u201d congregants. Online services often feature instrumentalists, vocalists and those with exceptional biblical knowledge for readings.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I\u2019m not any of those things,\u201d she said. \u201cThat\u2019s what’s so special about being in-person at Life Tabernacle. We\u2019re all treated like we\u2019re essential here.\u201d …<\/p>\n

Health Risks<\/strong><\/p>\n

Many say, however, that the larger public health risks should outweigh individual benefits.<\/p>\n

Yuria Orihuela attends church in Miami. Florida has removed major restrictions to attending religious services, but Orihuela\u2019s church, like many others in the state and country, have decided to continue with virtual-only services for now.<\/p>\n

She says she would not attend in-person services, even if her church offered them.<\/p>\n

\u201cTo put yourself and your family in danger, when scientists are telling you it isn\u2019t wise, is being careless and uncaring, or simply ignorant,\u201d she said. \u201cI think it would be an irresponsible choice.\u201d https:\/\/www.voanews.com\/usa\/are-religious-services-essential-during-pandemic<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Well, to atheists and many others, religious services are not “essential,” but the God of the Bible does not agree.<\/p>\n

Notice the following:<\/p>\n

2 … The feasts of the Lord, which you shall proclaim to be holy convocations, these are My feasts. (Leviticus 23:2)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Holy convocations means assembling together in worship services, which is also something we are told to do in the New Testament, particularly as we get closer to the end of this age (Hebrews 10:24-25). Starting with the weekly Sabbath, Leviticus 23 mentions God’s Holy Days–and that chapter uses the term “holy convocations” 3 times and “holy convocation” 8 times. God expects His people to gather together where they can.<\/p>\n

As far as the USA itself goes, here are the first, fourth, and fourteenth amendments to the US Constitution from its Bill of Rights:<\/p>\n

1. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.<\/p>\n

4. The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated \u2026<\/p>\n

14. All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction there of, are citizens of the United States and of the State where in they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Notice that the rights of religion include NOT “prohibiting the free exercise thereof” and that no State is supposed to be able to “deprive any person of life, liberty,” yet that is precisely what has happened.<\/p>\n

Back in it the Letter to the Brethren: March 19, 2020<\/a> the Continuing<\/em> Church of God<\/a> announced the following related to COVID-19 and church services:<\/p>\n

Now, with all the quarantines and travel restrictions being imposed, what about attendance at weekly Sabbath services?<\/p>\n

Our policy has always been, and still remains, if you have a contagious disease, you should not attend church services.<\/p>\n

In this time of COVID-19, if you think you may have a fever, you should not attend services. If you are not feeling well, please stay home.<\/p>\n

As far as \u2018social distancing\u2019 goes, church leaders in their respective countries and local groups need to decide the relative safety of holding Sabbath services (though in some places landlords and\/or government officials may be placing their own limits\u2013the early Christian church met in houses and that is one thing that can be done when meeting halls are not around and\/or there are governmental restrictions) as not only are they closer to their situation, they can react to local conditions in a timely way.<\/p>\n

If any person is not comfortable being in a group at this time, they may wish to stay home. And, of course, we do have services available online which is what most native English speakers we have are doing already.<\/p>\n

Tuesday, the BBC<\/em> reported that German, \u201cChancellor Angela Merkel has banned religious services and told people to cancel any domestic or foreign holiday travel\u201d (https:\/\/www.bbc.com\/news\/world-europe-51918596 03\/17\/20).<\/p>\n

While we cooperate with government authorities when we can, we do not believe that government authorities should interfere with the ability to hold holy convocations or other biblical observances.<\/p>\n

As the Apostles said, \u201cWe must obey God rather than men\u201d (Acts 5:29).<\/p>\n

Hence, yes, we believe that true Christians should, for example, keep Passover next month. Though in some areas, it may be wise to have only very small groups meeting together.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

We have, in fact, held Passover services and other services since that announcement. We also produced several videos about the ramifications of government actions and COVID-19.<\/p>\n

Notice one video related to the USA no longer fully abiding by its Constitution during the COVID-19 situation:<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

15:19<\/span><\/div>\n
\n
\n

COVID-19: The End of American Exceptionalism?<\/a><\/h3>\n

Could government actions related to COVID-19 be showing the end of American exceptionalism? The USA used to at least give lip service to its the Bill of Rights in its Constitution. But now, not so much. What do the first, fourth, and fourteenth amendments to the US Constitution supposedly guarantee? Tucker Carlson stated, \u201cFor 250 years, Americans have enjoyed the unfettered right to practice their faith as they choose. Now they don\u2019t. \u2026 Now that we\u2019ve ceded all authority in the country to our political leaders, what can\u2019t they do? What are the limits to their power?\u201d What about John Winthrop\u2019s \u201cA Model of Christian Charity\u201d sermon delivered on March 21, 1630 where he quoted Jesus\u2019 statement in Matthew 5:14 in the Sermon on the Mount about being the City upon a Hill? About being an example? This has been referred to by at least three who became President of the United States, including John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, and Barack Obama. Why, instead, did the World Health Organization\u2019s Dr. Mike Ryan (the WHO\u2019s top emergencies expert) point to Sweden as being an example for the world? Will a coming man of sin, son of perdition want himself and his government worshiped above all others? Will this pandemic shatter the perception of American exceptionalism? Will this end in 666? Dr. Thiel covers these matters and more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Here is a link to the video: COVID-19: The End of American Exceptionalism?<\/a><\/a><\/p>\n

Now, while most of the media and government entities have been telling people to avoid groups, and in various ways that can be a wise precaution, notice something applicable for these end times:<\/p>\n

24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

The “Day approaching” is the end of this age, and we are getting closer to that.<\/p>\n

Notice, also, that those who hope to escape what will be coming later are to gather together:<\/p>\n

1 Gather yourselves together, yes, gather together, O undesirable nation, (Zephaniah 2:1)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Although it has certain misunderstandings, the Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown Commentary<\/em> realized that the gathering together was intended for a religious group or assembly:<\/p>\n

Zephaniah 2:1<\/strong><\/p>\n

Gather yourselves together \u2013 to a religious assembly, to avert the judgment by prayers, (Joel 2:16, \u201cGather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders,\u201d etc.) (from Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown Commentary, Electronic Database. Copyright \u00c2\u00a9 1997, 2003, 2005, 2006 by Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved.)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

When are they to gather together?<\/p>\n

2 Before the decree is issued, Or the day passes like chaff, Before the Lord\u2019s fierce anger comes upon you, Before the day of the Lord\u2019s anger comes upon you! (Zephaniah 2:2)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

The gathering is to take place well BEFORE the day of the Lord (which happens about 2 1\/2 years after the Great Tribulation of Matthew 24:21 begins) and before some type of decree is issued. People who have not gathered together and think they will be able to know what to do at the end are mainly deceiving themselves.<\/p>\n

Consider also another translation of what the New Testament teaches about the importance of gathering together as we get closer to the end:<\/p>\n

We should not stop gathering together with other believers, as some of you are doing. Instead, we must continue to encourage each other even more as we see the day of the Lord coming. (Hebrews 10:23, Gods Word Translation)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Who does God want to gather together?<\/p>\n

The end time Christians. Notice what Jesus stated and something the Apostle Peter<\/a> wrote:<\/p>\n

19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. (John 15:19, NKJV)<\/p>\n

9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: 10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. (1 Peter 2:9-10, KJV)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

This is a peculiar people. These are people who the world does not desire. These are Philadelphian Christians<\/a>. Notice what the Apostle Paul wrote:<\/p>\n

1 Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. (2 Thessalonians 2:1-2)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

This gathering together before Jesus returns is for Christians.<\/p>\n

How else do we know that Zephaniah 2:1-3 is related to Christians? Because the decree is for the end time and because of what else God inspired Zephaniah to write:<\/p>\n

3 Seek the Lord, all you meek of the earth, Who have upheld His justice. Seek righteousness, seek humility. (Zephaniah 2:3a)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

The above is a reference to Christians as they are to be the \u201cmeek of the earth\u201d (Matthew 5:5) and to Philadelphians who \u201chave upheld His justice. Seek righteousness, seek humility.\u201d These are Philadelphian Christians<\/a> who understand that church leaders need to have integrity and are willing to be humble enough to accept the authority of a church led by a low-level prophet in the absence of a clear apostle (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11-15). They are humble enough to not think that they should remain \u2018independent<\/a>,\u2019 as many who once were part of the old Worldwide Church of God have done.<\/p>\n

Why does God tell them they may wish to be gathered together? So:<\/p>\n

3 \u2026 It may be that you will be hidden In the day of the Lord\u2019s anger. (Zephaniah 2:3b)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Interestingly, the Hebrew words translated as Zephaniah means \u201cYahweh Hides\u201d or \u201cYahweh Has Hidden\u201d (Holy Bible: Vine\u2019s Expository Reference Edition, p. 826).<\/p>\n

Why have I written that Zephaniah 2:1-3 has to do with Philadelphian Christians<\/a>?<\/p>\n

For they are the only ones who will actually \u2018gather together\u2019 as they should<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Why?<\/p>\n

Because it is only to the Philadelphians that Jesus promises to protect from the coming hour of trial, also referred to as the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord (Revelation 3:7-13). Notice also the following:<\/p>\n

1) In Matthew 24:37-39 the discussion is still somewhat general. The two groups in this context are:<\/p>\n

A) those who are protected at the place of safety;<\/p>\n

B) all the rest of mankind who are not protected.<\/p>\n

After this general comment, Jesus Christ became more specific. From here on He repeatedly contrasts TWO groups. But neither of those two groups represents the world at large. Both of those groups represent people who really SHOULD BE His \u201cservants\u201d; they both should be doing God\u2019s work, and they both should be protected from the end time events, but only one group actually is protected.<\/p>\n

The two groups that Christ repeatedly contrasts in the next section appear to represent:<\/p>\n

A) the Philadelphian Christians<\/p>\n

B) the Laodiceans.<\/p>\n

In repeatedly referring to the same people, who are alive at the time of His return, Christ is highlighting different aspects about these two groups. So notice:<\/p>\n

2) In Matthew 24:40 the Philadelphians are taken to the place of safety, and the Laodiceans are left behind.<\/p>\n

3) In Matthew 24:41 this is repeated, the Philadelphians are taken to the place of safety and the Laodiceans are left behind.<\/p>\n

Note: the repetition is to emphasise the ratio between these two groups. They are numerically equal! The parallel account in Luke 17:34-37 is even more emphatic. There the ratio of one to one is repeated three times, in verses 34-36. In Luke 17:37 the disciples are, in effect, asking: WHERE is the place of safety? WHERE are they taken?<\/p>\n

And they answered and said unto him, WHERE, LORD? And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body [is], thither will the eagles be gathered together. (Luke 17:37)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Regarding this section of Scripture I have often pointed out that they asked the wrong question, but it is the same question that most of us would also have been inclined to ask. We want to know WHERE the place of safety is, as if that was somehow important. What they really should have asked is: \u201cWHY LORD?\u201d Why are some left behind?<\/p>\n

What is the difference between these two groups? Why are some who are seemingly in the Church not going to be protected? Because it was the wrong question, the answer to which Christ did not want to divulge, therefore Christ gave a rather cryptic answer. It was a polite way of saying: \u201cI am not going to tell you that right now\u201d. However, this cryptic clue appears to be a reference to Petra, more than to any other place. (Nelte, Frank W. But If That Evil Servant Shall Begin to Smite His Fellow Servants\u2026April 1995. http:\/\/www.franknelte.net\/article.php?article_id=161&print=yes viewed 08\/02\/14)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Getting back to Zephaniah, notice that book is teaching that a decree is issued, apparently by a church leader\u2013and I believe that the leader will be part of the Continuing<\/a><\/em> Church of God<\/a>. This would seem to happen after the gospel has been preached enough to the world as a witness (Matthew 24:14), Jewish sacrifices are stopped, and the abomination is set up (Daniel 9:27; 11:31; see also The \u2018Peace Deal\u2019 of Daniel 9:27<\/a>) per Jesus\u2019 statements in Matthew 24:15-16.<\/p>\n

What kind of decree will be issued?<\/p>\n

A decree that may allow those who are gathered together and who listen to it an opportunity to be protected (Zephaniah 2:1-3). A decree that the Philadelphians will listen to and then fly\/flee.<\/p>\n

When is a decree to be issued? After an event that Jesus told of that He tied to the writings of the Prophet Daniel:<\/p>\n

15 \u201cTherefore when you see the \u2018abomination of desolation,\u2019 spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place\u201d (whoever reads, let him understand<\/strong>), (Matthew 24:15)<\/p>\n

14 \u201cSo when you see the \u2018abomination of desolation,\u2019 spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not\u201d (let the reader understand<\/strong>), (Mark 13:14a)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

What did Jesus say happens next?<\/p>\n

16 \u201cthen let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 17 Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. 18 And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. 19 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 20 And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath. 21 For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. (Matthew 24:16-21)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Why a decree?<\/p>\n

Apparently, to make it easier for people who read what Jesus said to better be able to understand that Matthew 24:15 and Mark 13:14 and Daniel 9:27b and Daniel 11:31 had been fulfilled.<\/p>\n

By whom will the decree be made?<\/p>\n

The Bible says:<\/p>\n

7 Surely the Lord God does nothing,
\nUnless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets.
\n8 A lion has roared!
\nWho will not fear?
\nThe Lord God has spoken!
\nWho can but prophesy? (Amos 3:7-8)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

The prophet may make the decree personally and\/or pass it on to another authority in the church to make.<\/p>\n

Who is the only Church of God in the 21st century to teach all of this?<\/p>\n

The Continuing<\/em> Church of God<\/a>.<\/p>\n

If you are not with the remnant Philadelphian group that is leading the final phase of the work<\/a> will you not be able to fly\/flee if you wait until the last moment? While that may be remotely possible for some, remember that God inspired Zephaniah to admonish God\u2019s people to \u2018gather together\u2026before the decree is issued.\u2019<\/p>\n

Most will discount this and many will scoff. Most COGs do not have anyone considered to be a prophet, and those other than CCOG who claim to, have prophets that have been proven to be false (e.g. PCG<\/a>, CGPFKG<\/a>, TPM<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Furthermore, let me mention that I read a post from a CCOG scoffer who picked at the very idea that one should suggest that a COG is Philadelphian and those part of such a COG will have be subject to being protected in a place of safety<\/a>.<\/p>\n

He and many others do not realize how important Jesus taught paying attention to world events and prophecy is. Notice something Jesus taught:<\/p>\n

34 \u201cBut take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. 35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.<\/strong>\u201d (Luke 21:34-36)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Notice Jesus said to watch and pray ALWAYS. He was referring to prophetic matters. THIS CAME FROM JESUS, BUT MANY SCOFF AT PROPHECY for differing reasons (cf. 2 Peter 3:1-7)\u2013yet being a prophetic scoffer is a mistake (cf. 2 Peter 3:8-9).<\/p>\n

Jesus realized that if people did not pay attention to prophecy and pray always, they would not properly take the steps to \u201cbe counted worthy to escape all these things.\u201d Yes, God uses prophecy as a motivator for people. Remember that God used Jonah to warn Nineveh (Jonah 3:1-4) and they repented (Jonah 3:5-9), and they did not get the punishment they were going to get then (Jonah 3:10).<\/p>\n

Consider also the following:<\/p>\n

2 Then the Lord answered me and said:<\/p>\n

\u201cWrite the vision
\nAnd make it plain on tablets,
\nThat he may run who reads it.
\n3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time;
\nBut at the end it will speak, and it will not lie.
\nThough it tarries, wait for it;
\nBecause it will surely come,
\nIt will not tarry. (Habakkuk 2:2-3)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Notice that the above is saying that something really, really bad will happen in the appointed time of the end. That means this has future application. Notice also that what is coming will be so bad that the time will come when people should run\/flee when it does happen. The time will come when those Philadelphians<\/a> who understand Habakkuk 2 in its proper timeframe will flee.<\/p>\n

So, what is this prophecy related to?<\/p>\n

Debt.<\/p>\n

Notice what else the Prophet Habakkuk was inspired to record:<\/p>\n

6 \u201cWill not all these take up a proverb against him,
\nAnd a taunting riddle against him, and say,
\n\u2018Woe to him who increases
\nWhat is not his \u2014 how long?
\nAnd to him who loads himself with many pledges\u2019?
\n7 Will not your creditors rise up suddenly?
\nWill they not awaken who oppress you?
\nAnd you will become their booty.
\n8 Because you have plundered many nations,
\nAll the remnant of the people shall plunder you,
\nBecause of men\u2019s blood
\nAnd the violence of the land and the city,
\nAnd of all who dwell in it. (Habakkuk 2:6-8)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

\u201cThe United States has the largest debt in the world\u201d (US News & World Report \u2014 Jan 28, 2011 http:\/\/www.usnews.com\/news\/articles\/2011\/01\/28\/the-10-countries-with-the-most-debt)\u2013and the debt has gone up a lot since that report came out. Here is another comment:<\/p>\n

The United States has the largest debt in the world \u2014 the largest debt burden held by any civilization in human history, as a matter of fact. (The US National Debt: Can it Be Balanced, or Will The USD Crumble? December 27, 2016. https:\/\/www.trigtent.com\/usa\/us-national-debt-can-it-be-balanced-or-will-usd-crumble)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Habakkuk 2 teaches that the time will come when people should flee from this indebted nation\u2013the USA! And the debt was been increasingly rising as the result of COVID-19! The “DAY” is approaching!<\/p>\n

I, personally, have taught the end time risks of Habakkuk 2 longer than any living COG leader that I am aware of. And the only Church of God group that I am aware of that has been boldly teaching about this warning in Habakkuk 2 for years is the Continuing<\/a><\/em> Church of God<\/a> (and the end time applicability of Habakkuk 2 was even in the first edition\u2013January-March 2013\u2013of our Bible News Prophecy magazine<\/a>; and the headline shown on the front cover was \u201cHabakkuk\u2019s Warning is for Us Today\u201d). The Laodicean groups that I am aware of are NOT teaching this. We in the Continuing<\/a><\/em> Church of God<\/a> expect to tell people WHEN the time the Philadelphians should flee.<\/p>\n

Jesus specifically told the Laodiceans<\/a>, in a prophecy, that they needed to repent (Revelation 3:19) or face consequences (Revelation 3:14-19) and that they would be rewarded for doing so (Revelation 3:20). The Laodiceans are Church of God Christians \u201cwho keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ\u201d (Revelation 12:17).<\/p>\n

Many COG groups no longer officially teach the idea of \u201cchurch eras<\/a>,\u201d and various ones also teach against it (though many are silent about them). Those that are unwilling to accept the idea of church eras, have tended to misunderstand Jesus\u2019 teachings to the seven churches and will, unless they change, not accept the related truths today.<\/p>\n

The old Worldwide Church of God clearly did teach church eras. Notice one related quote from the late Herbert W. Armstrong<\/a>:<\/p>\n

\u201cGreetings, everybody! This afternoon I want to speak on the mission of the Philadelphia Era of the Church, this Church today in comparison to the first era of the Church, the Ephesus Era of the Church. It\u2019s been seeming more and more to me, as the years go by, that the Bible was written primarily for the Philadelphia Era of the Church\u2026Today\u2019s mission of the Church you will find in Matthew 24:14. And this gospel of the kingdom . . . that is the same gospel that Jesus preached . . . shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.\u201d(Armstrong HW. Mission of the Philadelphia Church Era, December 17, 1983)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

The Continuing<\/em> Church of God has the same mission and the same commitment to fulfilling Matthew 24:14 that Herbert Armstrong advocated. Many do not realize that not teaching church eras was one of the first changes in doctrine implemented by the Tkach Administration after the death of Herbert Armstrong (see The 18 Restored Truths: Do You Know What the First Changes the Tkach Administration Made?<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Although many Laodiceans do believe in church eras<\/a> and do believe that they should watch events related to biblical prophecy, sadly, they have compromised and accepted compromised leaders who will not know when the Great Tribulation (Matthew 24:21) will begin. This is documented in the article The Laodicean Church Era<\/a>. Yet, they will lack the motivation and humility to make the necessary changes.<\/p>\n

Notice also:<\/p>\n

\n

6 Gather the people,
\nSanctify the congregation,
\nAssemble<\/strong> the elders,
\nGather<\/strong> the children and nursing babes;
\nLet the bridegroom go out from his chamber,
\nAnd the bride from her dressing room.
\n17 Let the priests, who minister to the Lord,
\nWeep between the porch and the altar;
\nLet them say, \u201cSpare Your people, O Lord,
\nAnd do not give Your heritage to reproach,
\nThat the nations should rule over them.
\nWhy should they say among the peoples,
\n\u2018Where is their God?’\u201d (Joel 2:16-17)<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Joel was inspired to write that the most faithful needed to gather together so that the \u2018nations,\u2019 apparently those led by the end-time King of the North<\/a>, would not rule over them. Between Jeremiah 4:5-6, Zephaniah 2:1-3, and Joel 2:16-17, etc. God\u2019s people are told to gather together before it is too late (see also 2 Thessalonians 2:1).<\/p>\n

It remains my prayer that those who are Philadelphians and are scattered in groups will soon assemble together, before it is too late. Sadly, because many COG groups do not understand key aspects of end time prophecy (see, for three examples: Is the Future King of the South Rising Up?<\/a>, Must the Ten Kings of Revelation 17:12 Rule over Ten Currently Existing Nations?<\/a>, and The \u2018Peace Deal\u2019 of Daniel 9:27<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The coronavirus pandemic is showing barely the \u2018tip of the iceberg\u2019 of what is coming.<\/p>\n

Are YOU paying proper biblical attention?<\/p>\n

Some items of possibly related interest may include:<\/em><\/p>\n

Who is the Man of Sin of 2 Thessalonians 2?<\/a> Is this the King of the North, the ten-horned beast of Revelation 13:1-11, or the two-horned Beast of Revelation 13:12-16? Some rely on traditions, but what does the Bible teach? Here is a related link in Spanish\/espa\u00f1ol: \u00bfQui\u00e9n es el Hombre de Pecado de 2 Tesalonicenses 2?<\/a>; here is a link to a video in Spanish: \u00bfQui\u00e9n es el \u2018hombre de pecado\u2019?<\/a> Here is a version in Mandarin: N;\u0016\u00ff\u001a \u0152\u0001f\/\u2019Y\u2019jN\u00ba\u2019\u00ff\u001f<\/a> Here is a link to a related English sermon video titled: The Man of Sin will deceive most \u2018Christians\u2019<\/a>.
\n<\/span>Fourth Horseman of the Apocalypse<\/a> What is the pale horse of death and pestilences? What will it bring and when? Here is a link to a related sermon: Fourth Horseman, COVID, and the Rise of the Beast of Revelation<\/a>. Some shorter related videos may include Amphibian Apocalypse: Threat to Humans?<\/a> and Zombie Deer Disease is Here! Are the 10 Plagues on Egypt Coming?<\/a> Here is a version of the article in Spanish: El cuarto jinete de Apocalipsis, el caballo p\u00e1lido de muerte y pestilencia<\/a>.
\nCOVID 19 is NOT the End, but could it be TEOTWAWKI?<\/a> The novel coronavirus called COVID-19 is wreaking havoc around the world. Many states of the USA as well as countries in Europe are on lockdown with shelter in place \/shelter in residence requirements. In France, a form is required when you are not at your house. In Spain, drones are being used to warn people who are outside to got back to their homes\u2013does that bring up feelings of \u2018Big Brother\u2019? Italy, France, and other areas are using police and\/or military force to encourage people to stay inside. According to the Bible could this be the end? If not, what has to happen first? Have the second and third of the four horsemen of the Apocalypse started their ride? Could COVID-19 be the fourth horseman? Why or why not? Could we be seeing The End of the World as We Know It (TEOTWAKI) like the R.E.M.\u2019s 1987 single song discussed? Do Christians need to fear? What did Jesus teach? What did the Psalmist teach? This is a video. Here is a link to a version in the Spanish language: Corona 19 no es el final PERO es el TEOTWAWKI<\/a>.
\nCOVID-19 Leading to 666?<\/a> The novel coronavirus of Wuhan, China fame, is now called COVID-19. It has also been called the \u2018Coronapocalypse.\u2019 Does COVID-19 have any prophetic ramifications? What did Jesus teach about pestilences and sorrows in the Olivet prophecy in Matthew 24? Could COVID-19 be the ride of the fourth horseman of the Apocalypse? Why was this type of disease expected according to the O. Here is a link to a version in the Spanish language: ld Testament prophecies in Deuteronomy and Leviticus? What has the US Centers for Disease Control warned about? What has the CDC reported about the flu? Were there lessons about fear and infections in the 2011 movie \u2018Contagion\u2019? Because of COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO), nation of Iran, and certain French locations are telling people not to use cash, but instead electronic forms of payment. The US Federal Reserve is now quarantining money repatriated from Asia to reduce the potential spread of the coronavirus on US currency bills. Is COVID-19 worse than we have been told or could this all be a \u2018false flag\u2019 event to encourage people to move towards a cashless society? If the thousands of deaths associated with COVID-19 are pushing parts of the world towards cashlessness, how much more likely will the ride of the fourth horseman and over a billion human deaths motivate people to move to making electronic payments that can be monitored? The Bible tells of a soon coming society that controls buying and selling to force allegiance to a coming European Beast power, known as 666 (Revelation 13:16-18). Does the \u2018great tribulation\u2019 begin before ride of the fourth horseman or with the opening of the fifth seal of Revelation 6? Do the words of Jesus helps us better understand the sequence of the four horsemen of the Apocalypse and the start of the Great Tribulation? Will the ride of the fourth horseman help lead to the rise of 666? Is that ride very close? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues and more in this video. Here is a link to a version in the Spanish language: <\/a>El COVID-19 \u00bfConduce al 666?<\/a>
\nTwo Horned Beast of Revelation and 666<\/a> Who is 666? This article explains how the COG views this, and compares this to Ellen White. Here is a link to a prophetic video Six Financial Steps Leading to 666?<\/a>
\n<\/span>Preparing for the \u2018Short Work\u2019 and The Famine of the Word<\/a> What is the \u2018short work\u2019 of Romans 9:28? Who is preparing for it? Here is a link to a related video sermon titled: The Short Work<\/a>.
\nInternet Censorship and Prophecy <\/a> Are concerns about internet censorship limited to nations such as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. But what about the USA, Canada, and Germany? What about the European Union? What about internet media companies such as Facebook, Google, YouTube, or email services like MailChimp? Has the attempt to control information been made by various ones over the centuries? Was the New Testament affected by it? What about the church throughout the centuries? Has the Bible already been partially censored? Which Bible prophecies point to coming Internet censorship? What about the Book of Amos? What about the coming 666 Beast and final Antichrist? Is there anything that can be done about this? Should Philadelphian Christians be working on anything now? Will preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom of God vs. a highly media-supported alternative lead to a \u2018famine of the word\u2019? More internet censorship is coming as various statements in the Bible support.
\nThe Great Monarch: Biblical and Catholic Prophecies<\/a><\/span> Is the \u2018Great Monarch\u2019 of Catholic prophecies endorsed or condemned by the Bible? Two sermons of related interest are also available: Great Monarch: Messiah or False Christ?<\/a><\/span> and Great Monarch in 50+ Beast Prophecies<\/a>.
\nPersecutions by Church and State<\/a> This article documents some that have occurred against those associated with the COGs and some prophesied to occur. Will those with the cross be the persecutors or the persecuted\u2013this article has the shocking answer. There is also a YouTube video sermon you can watch: The Coming Persecution of the Church<\/a>. Here is information in the Spanish language: Persecuciones de la Iglesia y el Estado<\/a>.
\nOrwell\u2019s 1984 by 2024?<\/a> In 1949, the late George Orwell wrote a disturbing book about a totalitarian government called \u201cnineteen-eighty four.\u201d Despite laws that are supposed to protect freedom of speech and religion, we are seeing governments taking steps consistent with those that George Orwell warned against. We are also seeing this in the media, academia, and in private companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter. With the advent of technology, totalitarianism beyond what Orwell wrote is possible. Does the Bible teach the coming a totalitarian state similar to George Orwell\u2019s? What about the Antichrist and 666? Will things get worse? What is the solution? Dr. Thiel answers these questions and more in this video.
\nCanadian censoring of the Bible<\/a> In 2017, Lauri Skori of the Battle River School board told a religious school in Alberta, Canada that it could not teach\/read certain portions of the Bible. In 2002, a court in Canada ruled against one who referred to certain scriptures that some homosexuals objected to. In 2017, there was \u201cAn Act to Amend the Canadian Human Rights Act and Criminal Code\u201d related to those who wish to be considered transgendered. Government officials in Canada and elsewhere have been ruling against the Bible. Is any of this prophesied? Will this get worse? What was the prophet Amos inspired to write? This is a video.
\nInternet Control, Famine of the Word, and 666 <\/a> Is the internet going to be used to suppress the teaching of the word of God? This is a video.<\/span><\/span>
\nThe Mark of Antichrist<\/a> What is the mark of Antichrist? What have various ones claimed? Here is a link to a related sermon What is the \u2018Mark of Antichrist\u2019?<\/a>
\nMark of the Beast<\/a> What is the mark of the Beast? Who is the Beast? What have various ones claimed the mark is? What is the \u2018Mark of the Beast\u2019?<\/a>
\nEuropa, the Beast, and Revelation<\/a> Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about \u201cthe Beast\u201d? Is an emerging European power \u201cthe daughter of Babylon\u201d? What is ahead for Europe? Here is a link to a video titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?<\/a>
\nEuropean Technology and the Beast of Revelation<\/a> Will the coming European Beast power would use and develop technology that will result in the taking over of the USA and its Anglo-Saxon allies? Is this possible? What does the Bible teach? Here is a related YouTube video: Military Technology and the Beast of Revelation<\/span><\/a>.
\nSome Doctrines of Antichrist<\/a> 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 \u201cthe false prophet.\u201d 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?<\/a>
\n<\/a>Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666<\/a> Who is 666? This article explains how the COG views this, and compares this to Ellen White. Here is a link to a prophetic video Six Financial Steps Leading to 666?<\/a>
\nMust the Ten Kings of Revelation 17:12 Rule over Ten Currently Existing Nations?<\/a> Some claim that these passages refer to a gathering of 10 currently existing nations together, while one group teaches that this is referring to 11 nations getting together. Is that what Revelation 17:12-13 refers to? The ramifications of misunderstanding this are enormous. A related sermon is titled Ten Kings of Revelation and the Great Tribulation<\/a>.
\nBiological Warfare and Prophecy<\/a>. Is biological warfare possible? Was it prophesied? Scientists have long warned that pathogenic organisms like the coronavirus could be weaponized. Furthermore, back in 2017, there were concerns that the biological research facility being constructed in Wuhan, China was risky and that a coronavirus from it could be released. On January 25, 2020, China\u2019s President Xi Jinping publicly stated that the situation with the Wuhan-related strain of the coronavirus was grave. Did Church of God writers like the late evangelist Raymond McNair warn that engineered viruses (the \u201cDoomsday bug\u201d) were consistent with prophecies from Jesus? Did a warning from CCOG leader Bob Thiel warn about risks of genetically-modified (GMO) mosquitoes come to pass? Could human research and\/or the consumption of biblically-unclean animals such as bats and snakes be a factor in current outbreaks or coming future pestilences? What about famines? How devastating have pestilences been? How devastating are the prophesied ones going to be? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues and more in this video.<\/span>
\nFour Horsemen of the Apocalypse<\/a> 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 \u201cbeginning of sorrows? Do they start their ride prior to the Great Tribulation? Did Nostradamus or any other \u2018private prophets\u2019 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 The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse<\/span><\/a>.
\n20 items to prophetically watch in 2020 <\/a> Much is happening. Dr. Thiel points to 20 items to watch (cf. Mark 13:37) in this article. Here is a link to a related sermon: 20 Prophetic Items to Watch in 2020<\/a>.
\nThe New World Order Is Leaving the US Behind<\/a> Bloomberg reported that the New World Order is leaving the USA behind. Other secular news sources are also reporting the rise of a new world order and decline of the influence of the USA. What about NAFTA, the Paris Accords, TPP, TWO, and NATO? Russia, China, and Europe are all working towards reducing dominance of the USA. Is this consistent with biblical prophecy? When did the time of Anglo-American dominance begin? Will the coming world order be dominated by a European Babylonian power? What will happen to the USA, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand after military actions by the coming order and the Great Tribulation? Are there any ties to Armageddon? Dr. Thiel addresses and more from the Bible.
\nSpiritual Samaritans: Old and New<\/a> Who were the Samaritans? Do the represent true Christianity or something else? Here is a link to a related sermon: <\/a>USA in Prophecy: Samaria<\/a><\/a>.<\/a>Who is the King of the North?<\/a> 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 \u00bfQui\u00e9n es el Rey del Norte?<\/a> Here is a link to a video titled: The Future King of the North<\/a>.
\nUSA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses<\/a> Can you point to scriptures, like Daniel 11:39, that point to the USA in the 21st century? This article does.<\/span> Two related sermon are available: Identifying the USA and its Destruction in Prophecy<\/a> and Do these 7 prophesies point to the end of the USA?<\/a>
\nWho is the King of the West?<\/a> 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: \u00bfQui\u00e9n es el Rey del Occidente? \u00bfPor qu\u00e9 no hay un Rey del Occidente en la profec\u00eda del tiempo del fin?<\/a> A related sermon is also available: The Bible, the USA, and the King of the West<\/a>.
\nWho is the King of the North?<\/a> 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<\/span>? 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 \u00bfQui\u00e9n es el Rey del Norte? <\/a>Here are links to two related videos: The King of the North is Alive: What to Look Out For<\/a> and The Future King of the North<\/a>.
\nSatan\u2019s Plan<\/a> 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\u2019s Plan?<\/a> and Satan\u2019s Plan is More Dramatic than Many Realize<\/a>.
\nWill the Anglo-Saxon-Celtic Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves?<\/a> 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? <\/a> Here is a related item in the Spanish language \u00bfSer\u00e1n divididas las naciones anglosajonas?<\/a>
\nBritish are the Covenant People <\/a> What do \u2018British\u2019 and \u2018Britain\u2019 mean in Hebrew? Are the descendants of the Anglo-Saxons people of the covenant? Does the British royal family connect to the throne of David? What does the Bible teach? What does history show us? Is there any DNA evidence related to British-Israelism? When did Christianity make it to the British Isles? Could Jeremiah have made it to the British Isles? What type of Christians made it to the British Isles? Did the last King of England believe in British Israelism?
\nBrexit Happened: Now What?<\/a> At 11:00 pm January 31, 2020, the United Kingdom formally left the European Union. Many celebrated, while many mourned. Nigel Farage stated, \u201cThis is the greatest moment in modern British history.\u201d What will happen to the United Kingdom? Will the UK be involved in trade deals with the United States of America and the Europeans? Will the UK regret the BRitish Exit (Brexit) from the EU?What will happen with the European Union? Is Europe prophesied to have a great army and many ships? Does the Bible prophesy a reorganization of Europe? Does it prophesy that the Europeans will become a conquering military power? Is the United Kingdom prophesied to be conquered? How does the Bible name the British-descended peoples? Was the British Empire the largest in world history? Was Brexit predicted by Church of God leaders in 1970 and the early 1990s? Will the European Union be negatively affected financially by the departure of the UK? Will this turn out well for the UK or the Europeans? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues and more in this video.
\nCanada in Prophecy: What Does Bible Prophecy, Catholic Prophecy, and other Predictions Suggest About the Future of Canada?<\/a> There are prophecies that suggest involvement with Canada. And many are not positive about its future. A sermon of related interest is also available: Canada in Prophecy<\/a>.
\nAustralia and New Zealand in Prophecy<\/a> Do biblical prophecies help explain the wealth blessings for Australia and New Zealand? Might cursings from disobedience come in the 21st century? Here is a link to a related sermon: Australia and New Zealand: Origins and Prophecy<\/a>.
\n<\/a>Does God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End?<\/a> 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? 2028 or 20xx? There is also a video titled 6000 Years: When will God\u2019s Kingdom Come?<\/a> Here is a link to the article in Spanish: \u00bfTiene Dios un plan de 6,000 a\u00f1os?<\/a>
\nWhen Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2020, 2021, or 2022?<\/a> Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the \u201cbeginning of sorrows\u201d? 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: \u00bfPuede la Gran Tribulaci\u00f3n comenzar en el 2020 o 2021? \u00bfEs el Tiempo de los Gentiles?<\/a> You can also see the English language sermon videos: The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives<\/a> and Can the Great Tribulation begin before 2020?<\/a> A shorter and newer video is: Could the Great Tribulation Begin in 2020?<\/a>
\nThe Times of the Gentiles<\/a> 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<\/a>.
\nArmageddon<\/a> Who is involved and when will this gathering happen? Here is also a video from Dr. Thiel, from Tel Megiddo in Israel: Armageddon<\/a>. Other videos include: Armageddon Will it come on Trump\u2019s watch?<\/a>, Iraq, Armageddon, & Prophecy<\/a>, Freemasonry, Armageddon, and Rome<\/a>, Is China paving roads to Armageddon?<\/a>, and Jordan, Petra, and Armageddon<\/a>.
\nHerbert W. Armstrong, the Philadelphia Church, & the Mantle<\/a> Herbert Armstrong claims God had him raise the Philadelphia up. Are there reasons to believe that the Philadelphia mantle in now within the CCOG? Here is a link to a related sermon: Herbert W. Armstrong and the Philadelphia Mantle<\/a>.
\n5. The Sardis Church Era<\/a> was predominant circa 1600 A.D. to circa 1933 A.D. Discusses early history of the Seventh Day Baptists, Seventh-day Adventists, and COG-7th Day.
\n6. The Philadelphia Church Era<\/a> was predominant circa 1933 A.D. to 1986 A.D. The old Radio Church of God and old Worldwide Church of God, now the remnant of that era is basically the most faithful in the Church of God, like who hold to the beliefs and practices of the Continuing<\/a><\/em> Church of God<\/a>.
\n7. The Laodicean Church Era <\/a>has been predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present. The Laodiceans are non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG or its offshoots.\u00a0 They do not properly understand the work or biblical prophecies and will face the Great Tribulation<\/a> if they do not repent. One video of related interest is 17 Laodicean Errors in Prophecy<\/a>. See also Do You Hold to Any of These Laodicean Prophetic Errors?<\/a>
\nThere is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Near Petra<\/a> This article discusses a biblical \u2018place of safety\u2019 and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on this subject\u2013thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture<\/a> theory. Two sermon-length videos of related interest are available Physical Protection During the Great Tribulation<\/a> and Might Petra be the Place of Safety?<\/a><\/span>\u00a0 Here is something related in the Spanish language: Hay un lugar de seguridad para los Filadelfinos. \u00bfPuede ser Petra?<\/a>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Artist’s portrayal of Peter and John going to prepare for the Passover COGwriter Voice of America (VOA) posted the following: Are Religious Services ‘Essential’ During Pandemic? May 13, 2020 [Louisiana Gov.] John Bel Edwards … issued a stay-at-home mandate for Louisiana on March 23 that remains in effect. The order limits the operation of businesses […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-62153","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-religious-news"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t