Church of God News

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Jesus gave a commission and prophesied:

15 … Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; (Mark 16:15-17)

The Continuing Church of God is doing this.

Yesterday, I received the following email and photo from Continuing Church of God evangelist Evans Ochieng who is in Malawi on a baptizing tour:

Pastor Dr Bob,

Greetings from Malawi.

After a long trip for two days, we arrived Chikwawa where we went to meet the brethren who wanted to be baptized. On Tuesday I had a long journey from Kenya to Malawi Lilongwe. Then from Lilongwe to Blantyre. We reached in Blantyre very late at night. And we spent a night in Blantyre.

Today in the morning we started our movement to Chikwawa to meet some four congregations there. I met the brethren at one place. I took more time when teaching so many subjects concerning the repentance, the true church of God, why people must be baptized and the benefits of baptism. I talked about kingdom of God and God’s ordained feasts. After that I asked some questions about baptism. Why people need baptism and it’s impotence.

At 1pm we started our journey to the river where baptism was conducted. I baptized 25 people. Since most of them were not understanding English, Molozowa went with me in the water to translate for them the question which I was asking during baptism. The baptism went very well and out of 25 most of them were women.

During the ceremony, I baptized one lady who had demons. We didn’t know this till I immersed her in water. When coming out she started saying foreign languages and start beating people and she wanted to run. It forced me to pray for just in the water till the demons left her and she became normal. After that she went out joined others who were already baptized. We show the power of GOD in the water. It was a miracle.

A young girl who is 18 years old insisted that she must be baptized. I tried to pleaded with her but she insisted. It forced me to baptized her according to her Faith.

After that we started our journey back to Migowi because tomorrow we are going to meet some brethren in Zomba. We arrived just right now and we are very tired. And need to rest.

Remember that Jesus said, “there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10).

I asked Evans Ochieng for more about the demon matter, and he sent the following today (April 25, 2025):

Pastor Dr Bob,

Greetings from Malawi.

Yes I commanded demons to leave and they left the lady and go. But this is not my first time to command demons to leave. When demons caught my daughter in school where they were learning in Kadika secondary school. I found when pastor of SDA was praying for them but demons didn’t go. And I reached and commanded them to leave, they went and the daughter remained safe. The other day when we went to preach in certain home I and Richard Opiyo from Kobwai. We found a man who was a witchcraft and was using demons to do miracles. When we reached in that home, that man rain away and told his brother that he can’t come where we are because the demons he was having are afraid of us because we are holy Men. And so many. That’s the reason why I noticed very first demons in her. Its good that they left her and the lady remained safe. …

Evans

Evans Ochieng was once a member of the SDA church, then WCG, GCG, LCG, and COGIW. He has been part of the CCOG since 2014.

Related to witch doctors, we put out the following video:

14:45

Can Witch Doctors Cast Spells on Christians?

Many in Africa, Haiti, the West, and various other parts of the world believe that witch doctors are powerful. Various ones have succumbed to the point they believe Christians can be cursed by them. The Bible opposes the use of witchcraft and casting spells as Deuteronomy 18:10-12 shows. Does the Bible suggest witches, palm readers, and witch doctors could be real? Is it possible that witch doctors can cast spells on Christians to blind them to something? If not, why not? Are non-Christians subject to be blinded by Satan, his demons, and those involved with the ‘dark arts’? What does the Bible clearly teach? Could the teaching that true Christians be deceived by curses from witch doctors be a ‘doctrine of demons’ that the Apostle Paul warned about in the last days? Are Christians to fear humans? Does God limit Satan’s power and those of his henchmen? Will the False Prophet Antichrist perform real signs that many will fall for? Do you, if you are a real Christian, truly believe, “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world?” What can we learn regarding Job as well as Balaam and Balak? Dr. Thiel and Steve Dupuie go over scriptures to show what the Bible really teaches about this matter.

Here is a link to our video: Can Witch Doctors Cast Spells on Christians?

The Bible is clear that “there is no sorcery against” (Number 23:23) God’s people.

Regarding demons, notice what the seventy that Jesus sent out to preach reported back:

17 Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” (Luke 10:17)

Yes, the demons are subject to the name/authority of Jesus.

Critics might wonder how an evangelist could baptize someone with a demon, but even Jesus stated:

70 Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the twelve, and one of you is a devil?” 71 He spoke of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, for it was he who would betray Him, being one of the twelve. (John 6:70-71)

Furthermore, after being baptized by Philip, the Apostles Peter and John laid hands on the Simon Magus, they realized he had the root of bitterness (Acts 8:9-23).

Understand that demonic encounters are not limited to Africa or the Middle East.

I have had several encounters with people with demons.

Many years ago, a man came to my office who was a part-time minister of a Pentecostal sect I was unfamiliar with. He told me the Holy Spirit led him to call me. After his appointment, he told me that the Holy Spirit told him to follow my advice. If that is where it stopped I would have thought nothing of it. I had long been in a non-medical branch of the health profession, and many had commented that they believe that God led them to see me. But this man was different.

One of the things he mentioned to me was that another minister in his sect once told all their members to throw all their medications into a pile, which was then burned (somewhat reminiscent of Acts 19:19). He told me that the medications let out various howls while they were burning. He also told me that those howls were demons which possessed those medications (he also stated that the medications themselves were named after demons).

As there are no biblical examples of non-living materials being demon possessed, I was not doubting there were demons at the “ceremony” he mentioned, but I did doubt that the medications themselves were possessed. He also said, “The Holy Spirit told me that God is well pleased with you” and “You know more about the Bible than all the televangelists.” These two statements concerned me greatly as we had not discussed the Bible in any depth. Also, the only biblical examples of God saying He was well pleased concerned Jesus (Isaiah 42:21;Matthew 3:17).

It should be understood that all the spirits that are against us do not try to fight us as directly as Elymas the sorcerer (Acts 13:6-12) did.

Acts 8:9-24 has a story about one who was involved with demons who seemed to be supportive of the truth, but really was not. It says,

But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously practiced sorcery in the city and astonished the people of Samaria, claiming that he was someone great, To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the great power of God.” And they heeded him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time. But when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized. Then Simon himself also believed; and when he was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done. Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, Who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, Saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.” Then Simon answered and said, “Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.”

Notice that Simon believed, but was not converted. As James wrote, “Even the demons believe–and tremble!” (James 2:19).

This man, though, more closely reminded me on an incident Paul encountered,

16 Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling. This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.” And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour”(Acts 16:16-18).

Notice that the girl Acts speaks of even supported the proclamation of “the way of salvation,” yet was demon possessed.

Now, this is not the first time I believe demons were involved in sending someone to see me. On at least two other occasions I feel it happened before. In those two occasions, the individuals basically told me that some type of psychic (and they were different psychics) told them to see me by name. As I do not believe these psychics actually knew me, I believe they were influenced by demons or were perhaps demon possessed themselves.

The demons probably know who are Christians as Acts 19:13-16 suggests,

Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.” Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.

I have wondered if perhaps demons send some to me so that those they wish to possess may live longer.

The first time I suspected a possible demonic presence, was when in the military I attempted to attend a Church of God (COG) on a military base. I had read some old Worldwide Church of God literature and felt that since this particular COG service was on Saturday, that it was probably just fine. However, after several minutes the pastor, associate pastor, and most of the few attendees started to say, “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus,” etc. Since Jesus taught, “And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words” (Matthew 6:7), I left during that part of the service. I also decided right then that one should be careful about which “Church of God” one attends–as that one was obviously not truly one.

Perhaps the last time I directly dealt with a demon was when I man telephoned the CCOG and said he had one. While I did believe he had one, when he claimed he did not know why, I did not believe him–eventually (after several phone calls) he admitted that he did have certain sins that brought this on–and he did not seem to want to repent.

In today’s society, demonic influence appears to be growing. Many believe they should communicate with “their angels” (which are most probably demons)–and I have had many people tell me that their “angel” led or told them to do something. Some even worship angels even though the Bible warns against it:

Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels…(Colossians 2:18).

Many movies directed to children seem to encourage demonism.

While “liberals” worry about violence in movies and “conservatives” worry about sex and language (all of which are legitimate concerns), I suspect that the growing spiritism in movies presents another significant danger. Many modern “family” movies encourage children to talk with the dead, to imaginary friends, and to “angels”. They are less than subtlety encouraging demonism. With a growing interest in the occult and in “psychic hotlines”, it is only likely that this problem will increase until the Kingdom of God is established on this earth.

My several experiences showed me personally that demons are still around and influencing many.

Back in 20219, a VigilantCitzen report of the following:

“A Children’s Book of Demons” Teaches Children How to Summon Demons

This children’s book presents the summoning of demons as a fun way of taking care of everyday problems such as chores, homework and getting rid of bullies. And it gets worse.

Although it might the worst idea for a children’s book in world history, A Children’s Book of Demons exists. It is published, widely distributed and it is sold on Amazon, at Walmart and some of the largest book stores in the country. Here’s the summary of the book by author Aaron Leighton:

Don’t want to take out the trash tonight? Maybe you’re swimming in homework? Perhaps that big bully is being a real drag? Well grab your coloured pencils and sigil drawing skills and dial up some demons! But be careful, even if these spirits are more silly than scary they are still demons.

A review of the book says:

Leighton integrates a hands-on craft element into this playful guide that invites readers to conjure gentle demons by writing their sigils, which serve as “a phone number” straight to the spirit. The demons necessitate specific summons (a riddler named Corydon requires a sigil “drawn in bright red, the colour of a clown’s nose–preferably while you’re giggling”), and express specific characteristics and abilities that range from pragmatic to gross. They include “Flatulus,” whose talent is passing gas; “Quazitoro,” an expert at finding missing objects; and “Spanglox,” “the best-dressed demon in the underworld,” who offers cutting-edge fashion advice. Leighton’s renderings of the multieyed, multiarmed, sharp-toothed demons are outlandish without being creepy, and the creative concept will likely inspire some readers to create demons of their own. Ages 5-10.

A Children’s Book of Demons is basically a grimoire (a manual of witchcraft to invoke demons and the spirit of the dead) for children. It contains 72 demons that can be conjured by children for their personal benefit (which is the definition of black magic). Each demon is accompanied by a sigil (a symbol representing a demon imbued with occult power) and a “cute” drawing (that is replete with occult symbolism). 12/03/19 https://vigilantcitizen.com/latestnews/a-childrens-book-of-demons-teaches-children-how-to-summon-demons/

I read a little bit about this book on Amazon.com before. Basically, the author seemingly acts like all this is in fun.

But it is terribly wrong.

By essentially promising children a false way to cope, the book seems to be related to the following:

18 For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error. 19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage.  (2 Peter 2:18-20)

The coping liberty that the book is pointing to is to be in further bondage to sin.

The Bible condemns these things:

16 They provoked Him to jealousy with foreign gods;
With abominations they provoked Him to anger.
17 They sacrificed to demons, not to God,
To gods they did not know,
To new gods, new arrivals
That your fathers did not fear. (Deuteronomy 32:16-17)

10 There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, 11 or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. 12 For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out from before you. (Deuteronomy 18:10-12)

You are not to call out to, or worship, those in the demonic realm.

Demonic possession can happen and is real.

In Jesus’ day there were those who were adults (e.g. Matthew 8:16) and even children (e.g. Matthew 17:18) possessed by demons, or by evil spirits. Today there exist certain spiritist sects which are involved in a conscious effort to contact “higher beings,” or their “angels,” or “aliens.” This kind of spiritism is often little more than an open invitation to demon-possession.

There should not be children’s books encouraging this.

Now, notice the following from the New Testament:

8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. (1 Peter 5:8-10)

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

We are to resist Satan, not call out to him or his demons to assist us.

The book A Children’s Book of Demons and other abominable promotions are consistent with the following prophecy:

1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, 2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, (1 Timothy 4:1-3)

It looks to me that the author has his own conscience seared and his book seemingly is intended to do the same to children and their parents.

We are not to call out to demons.

Demons are fallen angels.

While they may well want to be worshiped or called to, the Bible warns against that:

18 Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God. (Colossians 2:18-19)

We need to be faithful to God and worship God (Revelation 22:9).

As far as angels go, faithful angels do not wish to be worshiped. Notice what an angel said when one bowed before him:

10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” (Revelation 19:10)

We are not to worship angels.

It is terrible that books such as A Children’s Book of Demons are around to encourage sin and contacting demons.

Related to this, we in the Continuing Church of God put out the following video:

12:04

A Children’s Book of Demons?

Are there demons? Are they helpful for children? Should your children try to contact demons? Well, there is something marketed as a children’s book to do so. It is titled “A Children’s Book of Demons.” The book’s author is Aaron Leighton. Is this harmless fun or is it dangerous? Are demons actually real? What does the Bible teach about them? What are some of the ramifications of summoning demons with names such as Corydon? Are there actually pedophilia (so-called “boy love”( connections that the demonic book is promoting? Is the worship of angels to be encouraged? What should Christian parents be teaching their children? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues and more in this scripture-filled video message.

Here is a link to our sermonette video: A Children’s Book of Demons?

Notice what God says parents should do:

6 “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. (Deuteronomy 6:6-9)

6 Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6).

Warn your children AWAY from demons. Do not act like it is cute for them to try to communicate with them.

Jesus said:

31 “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:31-32)

Abide in the word of God.

Denounce attempts promoting demonism.

The truth is that no one, child or adult, should be trying to contact demons.

Here are some links to items of possibly related interest:

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.
Can Christians Actually be Cursed By Witches or Witch Doctors? Some who claim to be Christians have alleged that spells from powerful witch doctors can blind Christians to the truth. What does the Bible teach? A related video is also available titled: Can Witch Doctors Cast Spells on Christians?
Should the Church Still Try to Place its Top Priority on Proclaiming the Gospel or Did Herbert W. Armstrong Change that Priority for the Work? Some say the Church should mainly feed the flock now as that is what Herbert W. Armstrong reportedly said. Is that what he said? Is that what the Bible says? What did Paul and Herbert W. Armstrong expect from lower level leaders? Two related sermons are available The Work per HWA and the Bible and Priority of the Philadelphia Work.
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.
Angels, Cherubim, and Seraphim This is information about various types of angelic beings.
Five Rules for Effective Parenting Do you know that there are five simple rules that can make you a more effective parent? Here is a link to a version in Mandarin Chinese N”ga{€SUg eHv„[PYsQ{€²‰ÄR. There is also a 12 1/2 minute English language YouTube video on this, also titled Five Rules for Effective Parenting.
The MYSTERY of GOD’s PLAN Why Did God Create Anything? Why did God make you? This free online book helps answers some of the biggest questions that human have, including the biblical meaning of life. Here is a link to three related sermons: Mysteries of God’s Plan, Mysteries of Truth, Sin, Rest, Suffering, and God’s Plan, and The Mystery of YOU.What is Your Destiny?
Deification? Did the Early Church Teach That Christians Would Become God? What is your ultimate destiny? What does the Bible teach? Is deification only a weird or cultic idea? Are you to rule the universe? Here is a link to the video sermon What is Your Destiny?

Map showing areas annexed by Russia from Ukraine
(Public domain via Wikipedia)

COGwriter

While Russia and Ukraine continue to fight, US President Donald Trump and the Kremlin made statements about the matters there:

Trump says Russia made ‘big concession’ by not seizing all of Ukraine

25 April 2025

Trump says he believes both Russia and Ukraine want peace, adding that he has his own deadline for ending the war, but warning that Washington’s attitude could drastically change if an agreement fails to materialise by then.

US President Donald Trump says Russia has made a “pretty big concession” to end the war in Ukraine by stopping short of taking the “whole country.”

Trump insists he is putting “a lot of pressure on Russia” and that’s why President Vladimir Putting is “talking right now.”

“I think he wants to make a deal, we’re going to find out very soon, but it takes two to tango,” Trump said.

Trump made the comments during an Oval Office meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/04/25/trump-says-russia-made-big-concession-by-not-seizing-all-of-ukraine

25 April 2025

Officials in Western Europe and Asia have claimed US President Donald Trump’s reported framework to end the Ukraine conflict could set a precedent for territorial conquest, CNN reported on Thursday, citing anonymous sources.

The framework, which has not been officially confirmed by the White House, reportedly includes US recognition of Crimea as Russian territory and acknowledgement of Moscow’s control over large parts of four former Ukrainian regions that have joined Russia. US Vice President J.D. Vance has also stated that the administration is considering the option to “freeze the territorial lines at some level close to where they are today.” https://www.rt.com/news/616281-trump-peace-plan-concern/

April 25, 2025

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Thursday that the Kremlin is “ready to reach a deal” with the U.S. on Ukraine, though he also said some elements need to be “fine tuned.”

“The President of the United States believes, and I think rightly so, that we are moving in the right direction,” Lavrov said in an interview Thursday with “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.”

Lavrov declined to say what is being discussed in negotiations or whether any deal was imminent. He said the negotiations are “not supposed to be public.”

“The negotiations continue, and until the end of the negotiations, we cannot disclose what it is about,” Lavrov said. …

Vice President JD Vance warned that Russia and Ukraine must reach a peace deal, as envoys from the U.K., France, the U.S, Ukraine and Germany met in London. Vance said the White House has “issued a very explicit proposal to both the Russians and the Ukrainians, and it’s time for them to either say yes, or for the United States to walk away from this process.”

Vance said the window for diplomacy was closing, and the U.S. envisions a freeze of military conflict more or less along existing lines. The Institute for the Study of War estimates that Russia holds roughly 18% of Ukrainian territory. …

Wednesday, Mr. Trump accused Zelenskyy of prolonging the conflict by saying he wouldn’t accept Russian control of Crimea as part of a ceasefire agreement. Crimea, located in Ukraine’s southern peninsula, has been occupied by Russia since 2014.

Mr. Trump said in a post that the U.S. had not asked Zelenskyy to recognize Crimea as Russian territory, though he also said, “Crimea was lost years ago,” while Obama was president. Mr. Trump said the parties are “very close to a Deal, but the man with ‘no cards to play’ should now, finally, GET IT DONE.”

Mr. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office Thursday afternoon that “we’re putting a lot of pressure on Russia,” https://www.cbsnews.com/news/sergey-lavrov-russia-urkaine-ceasefire-deal/

Donald Trump and his Administration continue to push Ukraine to acknowledge the loss of territory. Ukraine does not wish to do that and its president has said that Ukraine’s constitution prevents that.

Below is a map, from Wikipedia, which claims to show Ukraine controlled territories in yellow with Russian controlled territories in pink (with other parts of Russia in a lighter pink), as of 11 March 2025:

(Viewsridge)

Readers will note the the above map looks similar to the one at the beginning of the post showing territories that Russia has officially annexed.

Because of prophecies related to the “kings of the Medes” in the Book of Jeremiah, in the Fall of 2013 I wrote that Russia would end up with some territory that Ukraine claimed. That was confirmed in 2014 after Crimea voted to be annexed by Russia.

Now, ntice something from our free online book Lost Tribes and Prophecies: What will happen to Australia, the British Isles, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and the United States of America?:

Russia and the Medes

Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus tend to be considered as East Slavs. They tend to be descended from Japheth’s sons Madai, Tubal, Mechech, and Gomer (Genesis 10:2).

All of which have descendants in Russia. Belarus seems to have mainly descended from Madai (or possibly Midian).

There were numerous tribes of the Medes (which descended from Madai) with the Buzhians in the northwest part of Ukraine.[i] …

Peoples prophetically called Medes are also shown to destroy the final Babylon according to both Isaiah and Jeremiah:

¹ The burden against Babylon which Isaiah the son of Amoz saw…

¹⁷ “Behold, I will stir up the Medes against them,
Who will not regard silver; And as for gold, they will not delight in it. ¹⁸ Also their bows will dash the young men to pieces, And they will have no pity on the fruit of the womb; Their eye will not spare children. ¹⁹ And Babylon, the glory of kingdoms, The beauty of the Chaldeans’ pride, Will be as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah. (Isaiah 13:1, 17-19)

¹¹ Make the arrows bright! Gather the shields! The Lord has raised up the spirit of the kings of the Medes. For His plan is against Babylon to destroy it,
Because it is the vengeance of the Lord, The vengeance for His temple. (Jeremiah 51:11)

The fact that there are multiple kings of the Medes indicates that powers involved in this end time confederation represent multiple governments. This would seem to include Russia, Belarus, and likely Crimea, Donbas, and some others in Ukraine, some in Moldova, perhaps some from the nation of Georgia, and some in Iran, etc.

Anciently, “Darius the Mede” (Daniel 5:31) conquered old Babylon—modern “Medes” will help do the same to the end-time daughter of Babylon.

The following passages seem also to apply:

⁸ “Move from the midst of Babylon, Go out of the land of the Chaldeans; And be like the rams before the flocks. ⁹ For behold, I will raise and cause to come up against Babylon An assembly of great nations from the north country, And they shall array themselves against her; From there she shall be captured. Their arrows shall be like those of an expert warrior; None shall return in vain. (Jeremiah 50:8-9)

Those who believe the Bible should leave the midst of end-time Babylon by then. Certainly, the above “north country” includes Russia, but other passages clearly point to others from Asia being involved (Jeremiah 51:27-29).

Notice some of what will happen to the coming European Babylonian Beast power led by a power from the farthest parts of the earth (Russia is the nation that is the farthest east and close to being the farthest north nation):

²² Thus says the Lord: “Behold, a people comes from the north country, And a great nation will be raised from the farthest parts of the earth.

²³ They will lay hold on bow and spear; They are cruel and have no mercy; Their voice roars like the sea; And they ride on horses, As men of war set in array against you, O daughter of Zion.”

²⁴ We have heard the report of it; Our hands grow feeble. Anguish has taken hold of us, Pain as of a woman in labor. ²⁵ Do not go out into the field, Nor walk by the way. Because of the sword of the enemy, Fear is on every side. ²⁶ O daughter of my people, Dress in sackcloth And roll about in ashes! Make mourning as for an only son, most bitter lamentation; For the plunderer will suddenly come upon us. (Jeremiah 6:22-26)

⁴¹ “Behold, a people shall come from the north, And a great nation and many kings Shall be raised up from the ends of the earth. ⁴² They shall hold the bow and the lance; They are cruel and shall not show mercy. Their voice shall roar like the sea; They shall ride on horses, Set in array, like a man for the battle, Against you, O daughter of Babylon.

⁴³ “The king of Babylon has heard the report about them, And his hands grow feeble; Anguish has taken hold of him, Pangs as of a woman in childbirth.  (Jeremiah 50:41-43)

The “great nation” from the “farthest parts of the earth” includes Russia. There are also nations that will be confederate with it.

[i] White, In Search of … The Origin of Nations, p. 273

Since there appear to be different tribes of Medes, that supports the idea of some type of split in Ukraine–such as what we have essentially seen on the two maps in this post. And, this split started over a decade ago.

In 2014, Crimea voted to leave Ukraine and become part of Russia. Russia later accepted and annexed the territory, which it had long wanted. Crimea has been a fairly poor region that felt neglected and discriminated against by the western portion of Ukraine. Many in the Donbas region also have felt neglected (or worse) by western Ukraine and have long wanted to be closer to Russia. It should be noted that the USA and some of its allies have regularly called the referendum in Crimea to be part of Russia some type of a sham, yet the reality is that the majority in Crimea wanted to be part of Russia–I also personally confirmed that when I spoke with a woman from Crimea in Germany after the Russian annexation. On March 18, 2014, when Vladimir Putin signed a treaty to make Crimea part of Russia (https://www.rferl.org/a/putin-to-visit-crimea-to-mark-five-years-since-).

Many of those in Crimea (other than the Tartars) and in the Donbas region believed that they would be better off with Russia who wanted them than Kiev who claims to want to keep them, but apparently had not shown them enough signs that it would truly be able to help them.

The USA would not accept the vote by the Crimeans primarily because it seems to want to stop Russia from expanding. The USA pushed for international sanctions with Europe, most of which still remain, in an effort to hope Russia would release Crimea to Ukraine.

The USA’s position seemed to be based mainly on politics as opposed to its professed belief in democracy.

Even though the USA and many in Europe have wanted Russia to leave Crimea, on March 18, 2019, I posted:

It remains my view that Crimea and at least parts of eastern Ukraine will ultimately align with Russia.

International sanctions will not stop biblical prophecies from being fulfilled. (Thiel B. ‘Putin in Crimea as Russia Marks Five Years Since Annexation’ the ‘Kings of the Medes’ will arise. COGwriter, March 18, 2019)

And the events of the past few years confirmed my view that sanctions would not stop Russia from having territories align with it. The various sanctions announced by the USA and the Europeans look to be political punishment, as opposed to being announced by those who seriously believe that they will get Russia to cede the Donbas region back to Ukrainian control (it would probably take a pro-Russian government in Kiev for Russia to do that).

Long-time readers of this COGwriter Church of God News page are aware that I have repeatedly told of a time where those in parts of Ukraine and Moldova would end up supporting Russia. For example, here is something from 2014:

As ‘independent states’ Donetsk and Luhansk may enter into some type of joint confederation with each other or Russia. If the forces from Kiev decide to attack, they will likely fight and ask for help from Russia.

Donetsk and Luhansk may vote to be annexed by Russia, like Crimea did. Or at minimum decide to ask to be part of Vladimir Putin’s Eurasian Union.

The Bible has several end time prophecies concerning the Medes (Isaiah 13:17-19) and the kings of the Medes (Jeremiah 51:11, 28-29) that involve military action. Various ones in Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Russia, and elsewhere are part of the descendants of the Medes, as likely are some in Moldova.

Alliances consistent with end time Bible prophecy are in the process of forming. (Thiel B. Eastern Ukraine votes for independence: Kiev upset, Russia pleased. COGwriter, May 12, 2014)

Several years back, Russia’s president declared he had recognized and accepted the Luhansk People’s Republic and Donetsk People’s Republic as independent nations (see I365: Right before Messiah, US will fight Russia and China will capitalize, rabbinic “prophecy” reveals’ COGwriter: No, that is not what the Bible teaches). Then on 30 September 2022, Vladimir Putin announced the annexation of Ukraine’s Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia areas in an address to both houses of the Russian parliament.

The Bible foretells a time when the “Kings of the Medes” will get together (Jeremiah 51:11, 28)–and some now have. Many in Russia, Ukraine, and even Moldova have descent from the ancient Medes.

On the Sabbath of February 5, 2022, I did a sermonette where I mentioned that lands associated with Ukraine would end up being confederate with Russia:

21:20

Russia, Ukraine, Babylonian Europe, and Prophecy

The situation between Russia and Ukraine has again heated up, although it has been tense since the Euromaiden protests and Russia’s annexation of Crimea. There was later a separation of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church from the Russian Orthodox Church. Is war prophesied for Russia and Ukraine? Are prophecies in the Bible associated with the ‘kings of the Medes’ and a power from the “north country” related to any in Russia and Ukraine? Is a confederation of powers from the north, east, and central Asia prophesied to destroy the coming end time European Babylon? Will the destruction be reminiscent of what happened to Sodom and Gomorrah? How is the King of the North and who will destroy him? Do those in Russia and Ukraine have a hope of salvation? Will Russia and powers of the east be involved in the gathering in Armageddon as prophesied in Revelation 16? Dr. Thiel addresses these issues.

Here is a link to our video: Russia, Ukraine, Babylonian Europe, and Prophecy.

Since that came out, Russian launched what it called its ‘Special Military Operation’ and more territories that Ukraine once controlled are now controlled by Russia.

While Ukraine has put up a lot of resistance to Russia’s military actions, Russia is larger and has more troops, etc.

Remember that Jesus taught:

31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, does not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? 32 Or else, while the other is still a great way off, he sends a delegation and asks conditions of peace. (Luke 14:31-32)

Ukraine may wish to reconsider where it is at to see if now it believes it should attempt to make a deal with Russia–particularly with Donald Trump now US President. The longer the conflict continues, the less territory that Ukraine will have.

No matter what Ukraine’s leadership currently thinks, at least parts of Ukraine are going to ultimately support Russia (cf. Jeremiah 51:11, 28).

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

Russia and Ukraine: Their Origins and Prophesied Future Russia in prophecy. Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end? There is also a video sermon available: Russia in the Bible and in Prophecy as are two video sermonettes Russia, Ukraine, Babylonian Europe, and Prophecy and Ukraine in Prophecy?
Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North?
Ezekiel 38: For Russia & Iran in Our Day? Is Ezekiel 38 about to be fulfilled? Are we close to the battle with Gog and Magog? Four related videos are available: Ezekiel 38 Gog and Magog War: Is it Soon?, Ezekiel 38: For Russia, Ukraine, & Iran Now?, Russia, Iran, Syria, & the Bible (Code), and Gog, Magog, Vladimir Putin, and Ezekiel 38?
The Eurasian Union, the Kings of the East, and Bible Prophecy Is there a Eurasian union that will be formed? Is one being formed right now? Are any leaders working on that in the 21st century? Does the Bible teach that there will be a Eurasian union? If some type of Eurasian union is formed, who might it benefit and who will it destroy? A related video would be Is The Eurasian Union Rising?
Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is are links to related videos: European history and the Bible, Europe In Prophecy, The End of European Babylon, and Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European? Here is a link to a related sermon in the Spanish language: El Fin de la Babilonia Europea.
The European Union and the Seven Kings of Revelation 17 Could the European Union be the sixth king that now is, but is not? Here is a link to the related sermon video: European Union & 7 Kings of Revelation 17:10.
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.
Lost Tribes and Prophecies: What will happen to Australia, the British Isles, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and the United States of America? Where did those people come from? Can you totally rely on DNA? Do you really know what will happen to Europe and the English-speaking peoples? What about the peoples of Africa, Asia, South America, and the islands? This free online book provides scriptural, scientific, historical references, and commentary to address those matters. Here are links to related sermons: Lost tribes, the Bible, and DNA; Lost tribes, prophecies, and identifications; 11 Tribes, 144,000, and Multitudes; Israel, Jeremiah, Tea Tephi, and British Royalty; Gentile European Beast; Royal Succession, Samaria, and Prophecies; Asia, Islands, Latin America, Africa, and Armageddon;  When Will the End of the Age Come?;  Rise of the Prophesied King of the North; Christian Persecution from the Beast; WWIII and the Coming New World Order; and Woes, WWIV, and the Good News of the Kingdom of God.

(PCG logo)

COGwriter

PCG had the following at its thetrumpet.com website related to its booklet Daniel –Unsealed at Last!:

DANIEL- UNSEALED AT LAST!

What happens when God gives His Church new revelation? Satan always directs his most ferocious attack against God’s people. The Prophet Daniel battled mightily to receive God’s revelation and recorded the struggle, yet, in his lifetime he never understood what God gave him.

The above booklet being promoted has many errors. For example, it and its leader Gerald Flurry do not agree that the Book of Daniel is discussing daily sacrifices at the time of the end:

“And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days” (Daniel 12:11).

The word “sacrifice” is in italics in the King James Version of the Bible. That means the translators added it. The only word that Daniel used is daily. That word is used about 100 times in the Old Testament. And 80 percent of the time it is translated continual or continually.

… Our focus needs to be on the daily, or continual—not on a word (sacrifice) that is not even in the original Hebrew text. … There is only one Hebrew word for “daily sacrifice” in verse 11. So we will emphasize the word continual. The con- tinual is far more than just a word. It is a vision of God’s Work from the beginning! …

The daily is God’s Work. It must continue because Christ prophesied that it would. (Flurry G. Daniel –Unsealed at Last! PCG booklet, 2016, pp. 6-7)

The above is misleading and wrong.

Daniel 9:27 says:

27 Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week;
But in the middle of the week
He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering.
And on the wing of abominations shall be one who makes desolate,
Even until the consummation, which is determined,
Is poured out on the desolate.

The Hebrew word for sacrifice is in the above. Daniel 11:31 says:

31 And forces shall be mustered by him, and they shall defile the sanctuary fortress; then they shall take away the daily sacrifices, and place there the abomination of desolation.

While the Hebrew word for sacrifice is not in the above, the word for daily is–this is just like Daniel 12:11. And since Daniel 9:27 and 11:31 are discussing the same thing, it should be obvious that the DAILY is tied in with SACRIFICE. It is not the continuing church, that the COG continues.

Gerald Flurry also wrote the following in his Daniel –Unsealed at Last! booklet:

THE GREAT TRIBULATION
The verses preceding Daniel 11:40 discuss what happens in the Church prior to the Tribulation. (Flurry G. Daniel –Unsealed at Last! PCG booklet, 2016, p 82)

No, while some verses in Daniel 11 do discuss the Church, the verses in Daniel 11 immediately preceding verse 40 are NOT describing what happens to the Church prior to the start of the Great Tribulation. Notice what Daniel specifically wrote there:

36 “Then the king shall do according to his own will: he shall exalt and magnify himself above every god, shall speak blasphemies against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the wrath has been accomplished; for what has been determined shall be done. 37 He shall regard neither the God of his fathers nor the desire of women, nor regard any god; for he shall exalt himself above them all. 38 But in their place he shall honor a god of fortresses; and a god which his fathers did not know he shall honor with gold and silver, with precious stones and pleasant things. 39 Thus he shall act against the strongest fortresses with a foreign god, which he shall acknowledge, and advance its glory; and he shall cause them to rule over many, and divide the land for gain. (Daniel 11:36-39)

The Great Tribulation starts no later than Daniel 11:39 (see also When Will the Great Tribulation Begin?).

PCG, just like LCG, has the Great Tribulation starting too late.

Here is a statement from LCG’s Official Statement of Fundamental Beliefs:

THE “GREAT TRIBULATION”

The Bible speaks of a time of great catastrophe, called the “Great Tribulation” (Matthew 24:21–22; Daniel 11:40–45; 12:1; Luke 21:19–36)—also called “Jacob’s trouble” (Jeremiah 30:3–7). Accessed 03/02/25

That “Fundamental Belief” is scripturally in error. And when I was in LCG, its evangelists Dr. Roderick C. Meredith, Dr. Doug Winnail, and Richard Ames all agreed that it was in error. And Dr. Meredith promised in a meeting with them and myself in December 2011 that LCG’s Official Statement of Fundamental Beliefs would be changed before the end of January 2012 to correct it.

But, that did not happen.

So, now, since PCG and LCG still officially teach that the Great Tribulation does not begin until Daniel 11:40 (which discusses the battle between the King of the North and the King of the South), they are looking for the wrong event, while overlooking the event in verse 39.

Unless PCG and LCG change on this, and other significant prophetic errors they hold, they will NOT know when the Great Tribulation will begin until after it is too late for nearly all of their members to possibly flee to the place of protection that the true Philadelphian Christians will be protected at.

Now, many of you know that one of the reasons I left LCG was not only its refusal to keep promises, but because of its position on the ‘Falling Away.’ In 2012, it declared officially that the falling away was not real Christians falling away from the truth, but non-COG professors of Christ falling further away from the truth. Its evangelist Dr. Douglas Winnail went so far as to declare 1) that doctrinal change would set LCG apart from others and 2) one was under Satan’s power if one did not accept the change.

I did not accept the change and worked for the last several months I was in LCG to show the evangelists there why this change was wrong–yet they would not get rid of it, so I had to leave.

As it turns out, over 11 years later, LCG’s presiding evangelist Gerald Weston, published a new position on the falling away, one much closer to what I had told LCG (see Gerald Weston pushes LCG’s position on the ‘Falling Away’ closer to the biblical, COGwriter, position). While I applauded that correction, I would state that this once again validates my position that LCG is primarily a Laodicean group.

How so?

LCG had claimed its heretical 2012 falling away change was how it defined itself and one had to be under Satanic deception not to accept it. Then 11 years later, LCG later admitted that it was wrong. That means that all who remained in LCG those 11 years either accepted the heresy or supported a group that defined itself by a heresy they did not accept. Since that heretical doctrine was how LCG officially defined itself, accepting that was not Philadelphian, but Laodicean. I refused to be in a church that defined itself by heresy. The fact that LCG no longer does as it did, does not change the fact that it did for over a decade. Plus, it still has other heresies, but at least it does not define its distinctiveness by them.

There are serious theological and prophetic differences between various groups calling themselves Church of God.

Jesus warned that most endtime Christians would be Laodicean and NOT take the proper spiritual steps to be protected from the coming “hour of trial” (Revelation 3:10).

Some items of possibly related interest may include the following:

There is a Place of Safety for the Philadelphians. Why it May Be Near Petra This article discusses a biblical ‘place of safety,’ Zephaniah 2 to ‘gather together,’ and includes quotes from the Bible and Herbert W. Armstrong on fleeing to a place–thus, there is a biblically supported alternative to the rapture theory. Two sermon-length videos of related interest are available Physical Protection During the Great Tribulation and Might Petra be the Place of Safety?  Here is something related in the Spanish language: Hay un lugar de seguridad para los Filadelfinos. ¿Puede ser Petra?
Philadelphian Christian Great Tribulation Protection What will the Great Tribulation be like? Does Jesus promise physical protection to some or all Christians? Where might the place of protection be? What about fleeing to the mountains? What did Ezekiel warn? Here is a link to a related sermon: Great Tribulation Protection.
When Will the Great Tribulation Begin? 2025, 2026, or 2027? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? A short video is available titled: Great Tribulation Trends 2025.
Why Be Concerned About False and Heretical Leaders? There have been many false leaders–here is some of why you should be concerned about them. Here is a related article in the Spanish language ¿Por qué estar preocupado acerca de falsos y heréticos líderes?
Does the CCOG have the confirmed signs of Acts 2:17-18? Does any church have the confirmed dream and prophetic signs of Acts 2:17-18? Should one? Here is a link in the Spanish language: ¿Tiene la CCOG confirmadas las señales de Hechos 2: 17-18? Here is a link in the French language: Est-ce que l’Église Continue de Dieu confirme les signes d’Actes 2:17-18? A related sermon in the English language is also available: 17 Last Days’ Signs of the Holy Spirit.
Church of God Leaders on Prophets Have there been prophets throughout the church age? Are any supposed to be around in the last days? What have COG leaders stated or written about prophets? Here is a link to a related sermon: Church of God Leaders on Prophets.
How To Determine If Someone is a True Prophet of God There are many false prophets. How can Christians determine who is a true prophet? There is also a sermon-length video titled How to determine if someone is a true prophet of God. Here is a related link in Spanish/español: ¿Cómo determinar si alguien es un verdadero profeta de Dios?
Herbert W. Armstrong, the Philadelphia Church, & the Mantle 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.
Why is there a Philadelphian remnant of the true Christian Church of God? Did the old Worldwide Church of God essentially predict a Philadelphian remnant? Is a Philadelphian remnant needed for end-time prophecies to be fulfilled? Here is a link to a related sermon: The Philadelphia Remnant.
6. The Philadelphia Church Era and Remnant Though the era was predominant circa 1933 A.D. to 1986 A.D., but some few faithful are still in it as a remnant has continued. The old Radio Church of God and old Worldwide Church of God were part of the era, and now the remnant of that era is basically the most faithful in the Church of God, like who hold to the beliefs and practices of the Continuing Church of God. Here is a link to a related sermon: Philadelphia Church Era: History & Teachings.
7. The Laodicean Church Era has been predominant circa 1986 A.D. to present.–and most end time Christians are part of it. The Laodiceans are non-Philadelphians who mainly descended from the old WCG or its offshoots.  They do not properly understand the work or biblical prophecies and will face the Great Tribulation if they do not repent. One video of related interest is 50+ Laodicean Prophetic Errors. See also Do You Hold to Any of These Laodicean Prophetic Errors?
Who is the Man of Sin of 2 Thessalonians 2? 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/español: ¿Quién es el Hombre de Pecado de 2 Tesalonicenses 2?; here is a link to a video in Spanish: ¿Quién es el ‘hombre de pecado’? Here is a version in Mandarin: N;ÿ Œ
f/’Y’jNº’ÿ Here is a link to a related English sermon video titled: The Man of Sin will deceive most ‘Christians’.
LCG: What About the Living Church of God? Are there Doctrinal Differences with the Continuing Church of God? This article explains some information and doctrines of the Living Church of God, now led by Gerald Westin, and some concerns about them. (En el idioma español: ¿Qué hay acerca de la Iglesia de Dios Viviente? ¿Hay diferencias doctrinales con la Continuación de la Iglesia de Dios?) See also Why Bob Thiel Left the Living Church of God.
PCG: Teachings Unique to the Philadelphia Church of God Simply calling oneself ‘Philadelphia’ does not make one so (see Revelation 3:7-9), nor does Gerald Flurry calling himself “that prophet” make it so. This article provides many quotes from this group which tries to look faithful.

COGwriter

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has threatened to not provide Europe enough support if it does not do more militarily itself:

US won’t guarantee European security alone – Hegseth

24 April 2025

European NATO members must overcome their dependence on the US for security and increase their own military spending, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has said.

The US is prioritizing the protection of its own borders “after decades of securing other people’s borders in far-off places,” Hegseth stated on Wednesday. This shift in focus from the Pentagon comes alongside an “increased allied burden-sharing” in strategic regions, he added, …

The EU plans to borrow hundreds of billions of euros to spend on militarization, https://www.rt.com/news/616188-hegseth-europe-security-us/

Scaring the Europeans to spend more on military matters will not end well for the US per Daniel 11:39 and Isaiah 10:5-11.

The reality is that US is not particularly interested in Europe and the Europeans are starting to better understand that:

The End of the Transatlantic Illusion

April 24, 2025

To understand the current unraveling, one must look to the historical roots of the transatlantic commitment to Ukraine. The 2014 Maidan uprising, followed by Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the outbreak of war in Donbas, galvanized Western support for Kiev. NATO and the EU positioned themselves as staunch defenders of Ukrainian sovereignty, framing the conflict as a test of democratic values against authoritarian aggression. The US, under both Obama and Biden, led the charge, funneling billions in military and economic aid while imposing sweeping sanctions on Russia.

But this unity was always fragile, masking divergent interests. For the US, Ukraine was a geopolitical buffer against Russia, a way to project power in Europe’s east. For European powers like Germany and France, the conflict posed economic risks—disrupted energy supplies, trade losses, and refugee flows—tempering their enthusiasm for escalation. Meanwhile, smaller Eastern European states, haunted by their own histories with Moscow, pushed for maximalist support for Kiev, often out of step with the cautious pragmatism of Berlin and Paris.

The election of Donald Trump in 2024 shattered this uneasy coalition. Trump’s “America First” doctrine, which prioritizes domestic concerns and bilateral deals over multilateral alliances, has upended the assumptions underpinning Western unity. His skepticism of NATO, coupled with a willingness to negotiate directly with Moscow, has left European allies scrambling to adapt. …

Europe, caught off guard by America’s pivot, is struggling to fill the void. https://freewestmedia.com/2025/04/24/the-end-of-the-transatlantic-illusion/

Consider also the following:

America Will Miss Europe’s Dependence When It’s Gone

European self-reliance for security will cost U.S. jobs, profits, and influence.

The United States has long had a clear message to its European allies: Do more!

Spend more on defense, shoulder more risk, accept more inconvenience, spurn Soviet and Russian natural gas, catch Kremlin spies, push back against communist-led trade unions, send European armed forces to fight in U.S. wars—the list was long. Europe’s contribution was never enough. …

But behind Washington’s repeated call for Europe to “do more” usually came a second one: “Not like that.” The worst-kept secret of trans-Atlantic security policy is that from the dawn of the Cold War, the United States sought not only to bind Europe into a common defense against the Soviet Union but also to keep it in a state of tutelage. That meant strangling all attempts to build independent European defense structures or strategies. … the Europeans are serious—deathly serious—about taking care of their own defense and security.  …

Today, the former European Atlanticists who for decades acted as a skeptical, pragmatic brake on any talk of a European army, defense budget, military headquarters, or intelligence service have become the accelerators of change. “We have all turned into Gaullists,” Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said in February. https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/04/23/us-europe-trump-nato-eu-defense-military-weapons-intelligence-security-russia/

The European Union is not pleased with the US and is moving towards a new world order without US leadership:

World wants more trade with Europe since Trump-driven uncertainty, von der Leyen says

Commission president says Europe is “wide awake” to possibilities of “new world order.”

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has noted “a positive side effect” of the tariff uncertainty created by United States President Donald Trump: More world leaders want to do trade deals with the EU.

“I am currently having countless talks with heads of state and government around the world who want to work together with us on the new order,” von der Leyen said in an interview on Tuesday with German newspaper Die Zeit.

“Everyone is asking for more trade with Europe — and it’s not just about economic ties. It is also about establishing common rules and it is about predictability,” she said, adding: “Europe can deliver that.” …

Europe wants to lead a coming new world order and, frankly, if it will not get more assistance from the US, it wants the United States out of the way.

Pushing Europe towards it being militaristic is one of the many unintended consequences of the Trump-Vance Administration.

We recently uploaded the following video:

14:57

Europe wants to lead a new world order

Many political analysts are commenting on the total melt down of the European Union. Many feel Europe has lost all power, wealth and influence in the world. Is Europe really dead? Will it crumble and fall apart into separate countries as some say? How does Europe feel about its future. Do they have the same feelings as many political analysts? Or does Europe feel confident about its future? In fact, is it even possible that Europe feels so confident about its future that it feels it is ready to take the lead in developing a “new world order,” with Europe as the central power? Listen as Dr. Thiel sheds the light of Biblical Prophecy on the mortal head wound of Rev 13:3. Could that mortal wound relate to Europe? If so, how? What about Europe’s relationship with the United States. Does Europe still consider the USA a friend and ally? Learn what Europe and its new allies do to the United States and the “Five Eyes”! Dan 11:39 he shall cause them to rule over many, and divide the land for gain – Who rules over many? Who divides the land for gain? What land do they divide? The time is at hand! As we rapidly approach the end times listen in as Dr. Thiel brings to light world events. This includes the world events leading to the “new world order” the fate of the USA.

Here is a link to our video: Europe wants to lead a new world order.

A new world order is in the process of being formed.

It will not be nice, but according to biblical prophecies, it will be led by a European dictator until Jesus returns (Revelation 17:12-13).

Remember that “he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13) and pray for God’s kingdom to come (Matthew 6:10).

Some items of related interest may include:

Europa, the Beast, and Revelation Where did Europe get its name? What might Europe have to do with the Book of Revelation? What about “the Beast”? Is an emerging European power “the daughter of Babylon”? What is ahead for Europe? Here is are links to related videos: European history and the Bible, Europe In Prophecy, The End of European Babylon, and Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European? Here is a link to a related sermon in the Spanish language: El Fin de la Babilonia Europea.
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”?
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.
Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?  Is Donald Trump going to save the USA or are there going to be many disastrous unintended consequences of his statements and policies? What will happen. The link takes you to a book available at Amazon.com.
Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies? Kindle 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 Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?
Lost Tribes and Prophecies: What will happen to Australia, the British Isles, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and the United States of America? Where did those people come from? Can you totally rely on DNA? Do you really know what will happen to Europe and the English-speaking peoples? What about the peoples of Africa, Asia, South America, and the islands? This free online book provides scriptural, scientific, historical references, and commentary to address those matters. Here are links to related sermons: Lost tribes, the Bible, and DNA; Lost tribes, prophecies, and identifications; 11 Tribes, 144,000, and Multitudes; Israel, Jeremiah, Tea Tephi, and British Royalty; Gentile European Beast; Royal Succession, Samaria, and Prophecies; Asia, Islands, Latin America, Africa, and Armageddon;  When Will the End of the Age Come?;  Rise of the Prophesied King of the North; Christian Persecution from the Beast; WWIII and the Coming New World Order; and Woes, WWIV, and the Good News of the Kingdom of God.

Meeting Hall used by World Health Assembly (Tom Page)

COGwriter

The WHO’s annual World Health Assembly (WHA) meeting is in progress:

WHO Finalizes Pandemic Treaty

April 23, 2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been scheming to finalize the Pandemic Treaty to ensure global cohesion during the next pandemic. Over 190 member nations have agreed to surrender sovereignty in the name of public health, permitting an unelected organization of individuals to detail how they will respond to the next round of government imposed biological warfare.

WHO Director General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who is not a medical doctor but a Klaus Schwab appointee, declared this as a global victory. Interestingly, Schwab resigned as soon as the treaty was finalized. “The nations of the world made history in Geneva today,” Tedros declared. “In reaching consensus on the Pandemic Agreement, not only did they put in place a generational accord to make the world safer, they have also demonstrated that multilateralism is alive and well, and that in our divided world, nations can still work together to find common ground, and a shared response to shared threats.

The One Health approach defines this treaty, which vaguely recognizes that all life on this planet is connected and therefore, under their rationale, requires a unified approach to problems. …

The WHO ensured that there was no transparency during COVID-19. …

The now former chair of the World Economic Forum, Klaus Schwab, repeatedly stated that the pandemic would provide an opportunity for a Great Reset where one global entity will reign supreme. https://www.armstrongeconomics.com/international-news/great-reset/who-finalizes-pandemic-treaty/

After more than three years of talks under the auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO), countries have finalized a draft global agreement on pandemic preparedness and response. According to the UN, the draft agreement “outlines a framework for strengthening international collaboration, equity and resilience in the face of future global health threats.” …

A UN news release notes that following the announcement it would withdraw from WHO, the US did not participate in the final round of talks and will not be bound by the agreement. 04/23/25 https://sdg.iisd.org/news/who-member-states-conclude-negotiations-on-pandemic-agreement/

The US will be considered a rogue nation if it does not follow WHO’s plans.

Now, these plans have been worked on for years. Notice two reports from nearly 3 years ago:

Archbishop Viganò Warns Nations of WHO’s Pandemic Treaty Power Grab: ‘Yielding Sovereignty Is Considered Crime of High Treason’

“These resolutions will transfer sovereignty regarding the health of citizens to a supranational body that is largely financed by the pharmaceutical industry and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation,” he warns.

Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò released a memo on Sunday warning nations who are considering joining the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Pandemic Treaty that handing over sovereignty to the global body constitutes the “crime of high treason.”

“In the coming days, the Nations that adhere to the World Health Organization will vote on resolutions regarding the WHO’s management of pandemics,” Viganò wrote. “These resolutions will transfer sovereignty regarding the health of citizens to a supranational body that is largely financed by the pharmaceutical industry and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.”

Viganò explained that should nations give up their sovereignty to determine public health decisions for citizens, unelected “technocrats” at the WHO will have unilateral control to impose more lockdowns, more vaccines, and Orwellian vaccine passports on a global scale.

“If these resolutions are approved by a majority, the WHO will have exclusive international authority in the case of a pandemic to impose all the rules, including quarantines, lockdowns, obligatory vaccinations and vaccine passports,” he wrote.

“It should also be borne in mind that this organization enjoys immunity, and thus its members cannot be either tried or convicted if they commit crimes. Unelected technocrats will paradoxically have more power than that which citizens confer on their representatives by means of their democratic vote.”

Given that the yielding of sovereignty is considered the crime of high treason by the laws of every nation, and that Parliaments may not legislate against the interests of the Nation, much less violate the natural liberties and fundamental rights of the citizens whom they represent, I believe that it will not escape anyone’s notice that this attempt by the WHO to appropriate a power that properly belongs to individual Nations is intended to impede any sort of opposition to the Agenda 2030, which in the field of healthcare also aims to accomplish the drastic reduction of medical and hospital services, the privatization of the health industry, and disease prevention by means of vaccines.

The Biden administration has signaled its willingness to sign onto the WHO’s Pandemic Treaty last year when it approved of the treaty’s draft resolution. https://yournews.com/2022/05/23/2347266/archbishop-vigano-warns-nations-of-whos-pandemic-treaty-power-grab/

Is World Health Organization Attempting A Global Power Grab?

The World Health Organization, now convening its first in person meeting in years, is mulling the possibility of negotiating a global pandemic treaty which would regulate how nations respond to crisis such as the Covid virus posed.

Conservatives are warning about a power grab by the global body in which the proposed treaty would tell member states how to enforce lockdowns, quarantines, masking requirements, and immunization programs.

To stem a potential global backlash, the WHO is downplaying the talks and saying the treaty is only conjectural at the stage. But past experience indicates that such conjectural notions have a way of making it into international law without anyone noticing or being able to object.

Defenders of a treaty like to reassure us. Suerie Moon, co-director of the Global Health Center at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva, said that “even if the text for a treaty on pandemic preparedness is reached, it would have to be signed, ratified, and enforced by the member states themselves. Any treaty will have to pass muster eventually with domestic audiences.’

Wrong!

In recent years, UN global organizations have treated as decided international law agreements that have neither been ratified nor, in many cases even been submitted to national legislatures for approval. Examples include the Global Covenant to Limit Clutter in space, the human rights laws embodied in the International Criminal Court treaty, certain provisions of the Law of the Sea Treaty.

The body of international law that is binding on nations, is not limited by legislative approvals and actions. A kind of common law has evolved which codifies and respects agency decisions on matters not in any treaty.

Under the terms of the Vienna Convention — ratified by the U.S. — when a nation signs a treaty but has not yet ratified it, that nation may not take any action that would violate the treaty until the signature is either rescinded or the treaty is ratified. 05/23/22 https://www.dickmorris.com/is-world-health-organization-attempting-a-global-power-grab/

Officials from the Biden Administration are working to give the World Health Organization the power to unilaterally declare a health emergency in any country, thereby giving them emergency powers. The message from the administration and the vote are going unreported by the heritage media, but former Congressman Michele Bachmann is working hard at sounding the alarm.

BACHMANN: “BIGGEST GLOBAL POWER GRAB IN OUR LIFETIMES”

Bachmann has stated that the upcoming vote in Geneva over the Biden Administration’s amendments would cede U.S. sovereignty to the WHO over national healthcare decisions in what she described as “the biggest global power grab that we have seen in our lifetimes.” 05/23/22 https://www.israel365news.com/269669/jews-christians-unite-to-blow-shofar-outside-whos-world-health-assembly/

Will nations lose their sovereignty?

Well, to a degree, that has already happened.

However, what it being proposed by this United Nations’ organization is another step in that direction.

But what of the World Health Organization’s proposals?

How can it play into this?

Well, the Bible tells of seven seals being opened in the Book of Revelation.

The fourth seal involves the ride of the pale horse of death and pestilence–pestilence and related pandemics, are among the major things that the WHO/WHA is involved in.

Unlike what we have seen with COVID, future pandemic deaths will be at a more massive scale.

Sometime after the fourth seal is opened, Europe will reorganize and become more integrated. The Bible teaches:

12 “The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast. 13 These are of one mind, and they will give their power and authority to the beast. (Revelation 17:12-13)

The above is foretelling a complete loss of national sovereignty in Europe.

Perhaps, at least some of the justification for the rise of the Beast power will be to cite decisions and proposals by the United Nations, its World Health Organization, and/or its World Health Assembly.

This is consistent with Bible prophecy which also teaches that this Beast leader will be in place after the fourth seal is opened as well as just before the fifth seal is opened.

The Bible shows that the coming European King of the North beast will gain power after a time of death and pestilence.

While COVID-19 itself was not that, it has helped set the stage for people to turn to such a leader.

Related to the rise of the Beast, the Continuing Church of God is put out the following sermon on our ContinuingCOG channel:

1:16:57

Fourth Horseman, COVID, and the Rise of the Beast of Revelation

The 6th chapter of the Book of Revelation tells of the ride of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. What do each represent? Is the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, part of the fourth horseman? Does the Bible point to around 2 billion people dying from hunger, war, and the beasts of the earth? Was the ancient Roman Empire impacted by pestilences? What about the black death, also known as the Bubonic plague? Are disease epidemics part of the beginning of sorrow and troubles that Jesus spoke about in Matthew 24 and Mark 13? Does the pale green horseman represent Islam? Could genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or synthetic biology cause or contribute to coming pandemics? Is chemical and biological warfare (CBW) a real threat to humanity? What about a doomsday bug or antibiotic resistant superbugs? Is fear a contagion that will help people move away from democracy? Will scientists be able to stop what is coming? Is the good news that the Kingdom of God will? Could COVID-19 be setting the stage for the rise of the ‘prince,’ who will become the totalitarian Beast of the Sea (also known as 666 and the King of the North)? Is this leader similar to the Great Monarch of Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies? When is the Great Monarch supposed to arise according to the Eastern Orthodox? Why might Europe be less affected by the ride of the third horseman that the US, Canada, and the UK? Are governments taking steps now, consistent with the words of Adolf Hitler? What seal represents the start of the Great Tribulation? Which Christians did Jesus promise to protect from the coming “hour of trial”?

United Nations: Humankind’s Last Hope or New World Order? Is the UN the last hope for humanity? Or might its goals end up with sinister results? Two related videos include UN’s ‘New Universal Agenda’ is a False Gospel! and United Nations and Vatican Are Planning the New World Order.
COVID 19 is NOT the End, but could it be TEOTWAWKI? 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–does that bring up feelings of ‘Big Brother’? 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.’s 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.
COVID-19 Leading to 666? The novel coronavirus of Wuhan, China fame, is now called COVID-19. It has also been called the ‘Coronapocalypse.’ 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 ‘Contagion’? 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 ‘false flag’ 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 ‘great tribulation’ 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: El COVID-19 ¿Conduce al 666?
Two Horned Beast of Revelation and 666 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?
Biological Warfare and Prophecy. 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’s 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 “Doomsday bug”) 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.
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 o
Fourth Horseman of the Apocalypse 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. Here is a version of that sermon in Spanish: El Cuarto Caballo, El COVID y El Surgimiento de la Bestia del Apocalipsis. Some shorter related videos may include Amphibian Apocalypse: Threat to Humans? and Zombie Deer Disease is Here! Are the 10 Plagues on Egypt Coming? Here is a version of the article in Spanish: El cuarto jinete de Apocalipsis, el caballo pálido de muerte y pestilencia.
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.
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 Greco-Roman 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.
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.
Lost Tribes and Prophecies: What will happen to Australia, the British Isles, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and the United States of America? Where did those people come from? Can you totally rely on DNA? Do you really know what will happen to Europe and the English-speaking peoples? What about the peoples of Africa, Asia, South America, and the islands? This free online book provides scriptural, scientific, historical references, and commentary to address those matters. Here are links to related sermons: Lost tribes, the Bible, and DNA; Lost tribes, prophecies, and identifications; 11 Tribes, 144,000, and Multitudes; Israel, Jeremiah, Tea Tephi, and British Royalty; Gentile European Beast; Royal Succession, Samaria, and Prophecies; Asia, Islands, Latin America, Africa, and Armageddon;  When Will the End of the Age Come?;  Rise of the Prophesied King of the North; Christian Persecution from the Beast; WWIII and the Coming New World Order; and Woes, WWIV, and the Good News of the Kingdom of God.

 

Murdered Armenians 1915

COGwriter

April 24th marks the 110th anniversary of the date traditionally believed to have been the start of the Armenian genocide in 1915:

April 24, … is Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, marked annually to commemorate the genocide of 1.5 million Armenians a century ago, a mega-crime the nation of Turkey has never acknowledged. 04/23/21 https://www.wnd.com/2015/04/the-armenian-genocide-and-my-grandmothers-secret/

The US Congress has discussed it in the past and voted for it to be declared genocide by the Biden-Harris Administration:

April 24, 2021

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has formally recognized that the systematic killings and deportations of hundreds of thousands of Armenians by Ottoman Empire forces in the early 20th century were “genocide” — using a term for the atrocities that his White House predecessors have avoided for decades over concerns of alienating Turkey.

With the acknowledgement, Biden followed through on a campaign promise he made a year ago Saturday — the annual commemoration of Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day — to recognize that the events of 1915 to 1923 were a deliberate effort to wipe out Armenians.

Biden used a presidential proclamation to make the pronouncement. While previous presidents have offered somber reflections of the dark moment in history via remembrance day proclamations, they have studiously avoided using the term genocide out of concern that it would complicate relations with Turkey — a NATO ally and important power in the Middle East. https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-turkey-government-and-politics-middle-east-europe-dbe6bc9ddac90c1393e6c33ff2220781

That action pleased Armenians around the world.

Notice a Russian report related to the Armenian genocide:

YEREVAN, April 22. /TASS/. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited earlier on Friday the Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide memorial complex.

He examined the museum exposition, left a note in the book for official delegations and then laid a wreath at the eternal flame. “Thank you for preserving this memory so that the Armenian people’s tragedy is never forgotten,” the minister’s note says. http://tass.ru/en/politics/871829

Germany released a statement about it before:

April 24, 2015

YEREVAN — Armenia marked the centenary Friday of a mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks as Germany became the latest country to recognize it as a genocide.

Turkey denies that the killing of up to 1.5 million Armenians in what is now Turkey in 1915 constitutes genocide, and relations with Armenia are still blighted by the dispute.

Germany’s parliament approved a resolution Friday branding the killings a “genocide,” risking a diplomatic rupture with Ankara in a significant change of stance for Turkey’s biggest trade European Union trade partner.

The European Parliament refers to the killings as genocide, as did Pope Francis this month. The U.S. has refrained from doing so. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan as recently as Thursday refuted the description of the killings as genocide. http://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/armenian-genocide-100th-anniversary-germany-becomes-latest-use-term-n347641

Here is some information about what happened over a century ago:

The Armenian Genocide (Armenian: Հայոց Ցեղասպանություն Hayots Tseghaspanutyun), also known as the Armenian Holocaust, the Armenian Massacres and, traditionally by Armenians, as Medz Yeghern (Armenian: Մեծ Եղեռն, “Great Crime”), was the Ottoman government’s systematic extermination of its minority Armenian subjects from their historic homeland within the territory constituting the present-day Republic of Turkey. The total number of people killed as a result has been estimated at between 1 and 1.5 million. The starting date is conventionally held to be 24 April 1915, the day Ottoman authorities rounded up and arrested some 250 Armenian intellectuals and community leaders in Constantinople. The genocide was carried out during and after World War I and implemented in two phases: the wholesale killing of the able-bodied male population through massacre and subjection of army conscripts to forced labour, followed by the deportation of women, children, the elderly and infirm on death marches leading to the Syrian desert. Driven forward by military escorts, the deportees were deprived of food and water and subjected to periodic robbery, rape, and massacre. (Armenian Genocide, Wikipedia, accessed 04/12/15)

The government of Turkey has tended to deny it was genocide, instead saying that most were killed in WWI and civil wars during that time. The Armenians strongly disagree.

While the Continuing Church of God does not consider that the modern Armenian Orthodox are part of the Church of God, there are certain doctrinal similarities (as well as important doctrinal differences, see Some Similarities and Differences Between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Continuing Church of God).

The records of history demonstrate that as early as the first century A.D. there were Church of God Christians in Armenia. The Armenian Orthodox have claimed:

Christianity was preached in Armenia as early as the second half of the first century by the two disciples of Jesus Christ, namely, St. Thaddeus (John 14:22-24) and St. Bartholomew (John 1:43-51). During the first three centuries Christianity in Armenia was a hidden religion under heavy persecution.

The true Church of God has long endured persecution and I do believe that there were true Christians in Armenia for quite some time, though not really the way many Armenians understand it.

Around the time of Constantine it was known that there were binitarian Paulicians in Armenia who also kept the seventh-day Sabbath. Tamar Davis reported:

Eustathius was succeeded by Erius, a priest, and semi-Arian…Erius…condemned multiple marriages by the priests … Erius also condemned fasts, stated feasts, prayers for the dead, and the celebration of Easter; he urged a purer morality and a stricter observance of the Sabbath. He had many followers, whose numbers were augmented by one of Paul of Samosota, from whom they were called Paulicians. Notwithstanding the opposition of the prelates, who invoked the secular arm to prevent the defection of their spiritual subjects, the tenets of this sect struck deep root in Armenia and many of its eastern provinces, and finally the great body of Christians in the former country, withdrew from the Episcopal communion, and publicly espoused the sentiments of the Paulicians … The bishops of Syria, Pontus, and Cappadocia, complained of the defection of their spiritual flocks … induced the Grecian emperors to commence, and continue for nearly two centuries, the most terrible persecutions against the Paulicians.

Armenian scholar Nina Garsoian in The Paulician Heresy, wrote: “It would, then, appear that the Paulicians are to be taken as the survival of the earlier form of Christianity in Armenia” (p. 227). She also wrote that the Paulicians were “accused of being worse than other sects because of adding Judaism” (p. 213).

The Catholic Encyclopedia calls the Paulicians heretics because they were basically against idolatry and Catholic ritualism:

The Paulicians, as part of their heresy held … that all external religious forms, sacraments, rites, especially material pictures and relics, should be abolished. To honour the Cross was especially reprehensible.

Furthermore, note this historical writing about the Paulicians in Armenia:

From the earliest ages they have devoutly hated the error and idolatry of the Greeks. Like the primitive Christians, they have ever exhibited an unconquerable repugnance to the use or abuse of images, which, in the eighth and ninth centuries spread like a leprosy…and supplanted all traces of genuine piety in the visible church …

The Greco-Roman Catholic saint and doctor Jerome said that various of the Nazarene Christians were in Armenia in the fourth and fifth centuries (see Nazarene Christianity: Were the Original Christians Nazarenes?). Some of the Paulicians and many of the Nazarene Christians were part of the Church of God. See also: Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church.

In the eighth and ninth centuries, many of the Armenian Paulicians were forcibly resettled in the Balkans by Byzantine emperors. After being relocated to the Balkans, the Paulicians came to be called Bogomils.

The Eastern Orthodox also oppressed the Bogomils. Notice this odd admission from an Orthodox scholar (bolding mine):

The Orthodox, as have all religions, berated other confessions and denominations. But Orthodoxy was always benign – no “jihad”, no bloodshed, no forced conversions and no mass expulsions – perhaps with the exception of the forcible treatment of the Bogomils. It was all about power and money, of course. Bishops and archbishops did not hesitate to co-opt the Ottoman administration against their adversaries…

Notice that the Orthodox claim to have not caused bloodshed, forced conversions, or mass expulsions of any group, except what they did to the Bogomils. It is not completely clear how they treated others, but obviously, they felt mistreating people that were associated with the original Church of God was acceptable. Of course, some of the Orthodox began their persecutions much prior to the Bogomils with the early Paulicians (not just the Samosatans), various (like 4^th century) Sabbath-keepers, and the Quartodecimans.

This type of persecution is consistent with what happened to true Christians in the Pergamos and Thyatira eras of the true Church of God.

The historian, Fred C. Conybeare observed this about the Armenians affiliated with the Paulicians:

They are accused by their Armenian opponents of setting at naught all the feasts and fasts of the Church, especially Sunday…The Sabbath was perhaps kept… they were probably the remnant of an old Judaeo-Christian Church, which had spread up through Edessa into Siuniq and Albania…We know that the Pauliani continued to keep Passover on the fourteenth of Nisan…Of the modern Christmas and of the Annunciation, and of the other feasts connected with the life of Jesus prior to his thirtieth year, this phase of the church knew nothing. The general impression which the study of it leaves on us is that in it we have before us a form of Church not very remote from the primitive Jewish Christianity of Palestine.

The following is from the Catholic Priest Basil Sarkisean’s work Manichaean Paulician Heresy and is from a 987 A.D. letter written by Gregory of Narek against the Paulicians (Note that I have left out additions by the editor/translator F. Conybeare):

Then among the observances which we know to have been repudiated by them as neither apostolic or divine the mysterious prayers of genuflexion…

The Font is denied by them…

the communion of immortality…is denied…

We know that they deny the adored sign, which God, made man, raised and carried on his shoulders.

Harvard scholar H. Brown wrote:

The Bogomils…Its doctrine of God is highly dualistic…There is no True Trinity

One of their so-called “dualistic” teachings was that this is Satan’s world. One scholar noted that an:

… important idea of Bogomils and Cathars, i.e. that this world is the kingdom of the devil.

Perhaps it should be noted that groups like the faithful in the Church of God also believe that this is Satan’s world (cf. Matthew 4:8; Luke 4:5; 2 Corinthians 4:4). This will change, however, when Christ returns (Revelation 11:15). This being Satan’s world is part of the reason that the Bible warns us to not love this present world (1 John 2:15-17).

Another reason that their teachings are called dualistic is probably because, as non-trinitarians (see also Did the True Church Ever Teach a Trinity?), they would have most likely been binitarian (see also Binitarian View: One God, Two Beings Before the Beginning).

Notice this from The Catholic Encyclopedia:

The heresy of the Bogomili was started in the tenth century…followers called themselves Christians and considered their faith the only true one. In Bosnia they were named Paterines. The Paterines, or Bogomili…forbade intercourse with those of other faiths, disbelieved in war.

The true Church of God remains opposed to Christians participating in carnal warfare (see Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare or Encourage Violence?).

It is of historical interest to note the following doctrinal admissions in the article on the Paulicians in The Catholic Encyclopedia (bolding mine):

They honoured not the Cross, but only the book of the Gospel. They were Iconoclasts, rejecting all pictures…

The whole ecclesiastical hierarchy is bad, as also all Sacraments and ritual. They had a special aversion to monks…

Since Gibbon the Paulicians have often been described as a survival of early and pure Christianity, godly folk who clung to the Gospel, rejecting later superstitions, who were grossly calumniated by their opponents…

In Armenia the sect continued in the “Thonraketzi” founded by a certain Smbat in the ninth century. Conybeare attributes to this Smbat a work, “The Key of Truth”, which he has edited. It accepts the Old Testament and the Sacraments of Baptism. Penance, and the Eucharist. This work especially has persuaded many writers that the Paulicians were much maligned people. But in any case it represents a very late stage of their history, and it is disputed whether it is really Paulician at all.

The following is apparently from the work History of Armenia by Chamich and is from a 1054-1058 A.D. letter written by Gregory Magistros against the Manichaean (Note that I have left out additions by the editor/translator F. Conybeare):

… they represent our worship of God as worship of idol. As if we, who honour the sign of the cross and the holy pictures, were still engaged in worshiping devils.

Those who opposed idols and icons (see What Did the Early Church Teach About Idols and Icons?) were often persecuted (see Persecutions by Church and State).

Interestingly, The Catholic Encyclopedia article also admits:

The emperor Alexius Comnenus is credited with having put an end to the heresy. During a residence at Philippopolis, he argued with them and converted all, or nearly all, back to the Church (so his daughter: “Alexias”, XV, 9). From this time the Paulicians practically disappear from history. But they left traces of their heresy. In Bulgaria the Bogomile sect, which lasted through the Middle Ages and spread to the West in the form of Cathari, Albigensians, and other Manichaean heresies, is a continuation of Paulicianism. In Armenia, too, similar sects, derived from them, continue till our own time.

Notice that even some Roman Catholic scholars know that it is possible that some called Paulicians were the survivors of an early and pure Christianity and that they had spiritual descendants that continued into the future (Alexius Comnenus died in A.D. 1118 and essentially dealt with the Paulicians at Philippopolis in the late eleventh century), such as those within the Thyatira era, and well into modern times! This, combined with Gibbon’s account, is supportive of the view that a laying on of hands continued from the beginning, through the late eleventh century and beyond. The Cathari were also known to be pacifists, as were the faithful among the Paulicians. Of course, there were many called by those names that were not faithful. But completely faithful or not, they were often persecuted.

There has long been a history of persecution against those who hold Church of God teachings. And the Armenians, including those that no longer hold Church of God teachings, have also been persecuted. The persecution and atrocious massacre by the Turks about a century ago is still an important issue for Armenians. The persecution of Armenians in Syria and elsewhere in the 21st century has been atrocious as well.

They, along with all of us, need to pray “Thy kingdom come” (Matthew 6:10, KJV).

Some prophetic information related to Armenia is in the article: The Eurasian Union, the Kings of the East, and Bible Prophecy.

Items of possibly related interest may include:

Persecutions by Church and State 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–this article has the shocking answer. There is also a YouTube video sermon you can watch: The Coming Persecution of the Church. Here is information in the Spanish language: Persecuciones de la Iglesia y el Estado.
The Spanish Inquisition and Early Protestant Persecutions Was the Church of Rome really responsible for this? What happened? A video of related interest is titled: The Past and Future Inquisition.
Turkey in Prophecy Do you know the Turkish people descended from? Did the Ottoman Empire possibly fulfill a promise in Genesis? Will Turkey support the European King of the North or Arabic King of the South? Will it betray one of them? Will Turkey be involved in the encouraging the destruction of Israel? Is Turkey going to become Catholic? Is Turkey mentioned in Psalm 83, Daniel 11, and elsewhere in the Bible? A related video is also available: What Should You Know About Turkey in Prophecy.
Nazarene Christianity: Were the Original Christians Nazarenes? Who were the Nazarene Christians? What did they believe? Should 21st century Christians be modern Nazarenes? Is there a group that exists now that traces its history through the Nazarenes and holds the same beliefs today? Here is a link to a related video sermon Nazarene Christians: Were the early Christians “Nazarenes”?
The Pergamos Church Era was predominant circa 450 A.D. to circa 1050 A.D. An especially persecuted Church.
The Thyatira Church Era was predominant circa 1050 A.D. to circa 1600 A.D. The Church during the Inquisition.
Some Similarities and Differences Between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Continuing Church of God Both groups claim to be the original church, but both groups have differing ways to claim it. Both groups have some amazing similarities and some major differences. Do you know what they are?
Military Service and the Churches of God: Do Real Christians Participate in Carnal Warfare or Encourage Violence? Here are current and historical perspectives on a matter which show the beliefs of the true church on military participation. Is war proper for Christians? A related sermon would be: Christians, Violence, and Military Service.
Mysteries of God: What is God? Is God omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent? Does the Godhead consist of a closed trinity or an expanding family?
Could 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? 2032, 2035, or 2036 or? There is also a video titled: When Does the 6000 Years End? 2031? 2035? Here is a link to the article in Spanish: ¿Tiene Dios un plan de 6,000 años?
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? 2025, 2026, or 2027? Can the Great Tribulation begin today? What happens before the Great Tribulation in the “beginning of sorrows”? What happens in the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord? Is this the time of the Gentiles? When is the earliest that the Great Tribulation can begin? What is the Day of the Lord? Who are the 144,000? A short video is available titled: Great Tribulation Trends 2025.
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?
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.
Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church: Could a remnant group have continuing apostolic succession? Did the original “catholic church” have doctrines held by the Continuing Church of God? Did Church of God leaders uses the term “catholic church” to ever describe the church they were part of? Here are links to related sermons: Original Catholic Church of God?, Original Catholic Doctrine: Creed, Liturgy, Baptism, Passover, What Type of Catholic was Polycarp of Smyrna?, Tradition, Holy Days, Salvation, Dress, & Celibacy, Early Heresies and Heretics, Doctrines: 3 Days, Abortion, Ecumenism, Meats, Tithes, Crosses, Destiny, and more, Saturday or Sunday?, The Godhead, Apostolic Laying on of Hands Succession, Church in the Wilderness Apostolic Succession List, Holy Mother Church and Heresies, and Lying Wonders and Original Beliefs. Here is a link to that book in the Spanish language: Creencias de la iglesia Católica original.

 

COGwriter

ZeroHedge posted the following:

A Recap Of Trump’s First Three Months

April 23, 2025

Following Trump 2.0 is a difficult task. There has been no calm in President Trump’s first three months. He even generated controversy on Easter Sunday (then again, so did Joe Biden last year when he proclaimed it Transgender Day of Visibility). …

Here’s a look back at many of the highlights — or, depending on your point of view, lowlights — and multitude of controversies in the first three months of Trump 2.0. …

Deportations …

One of the most consequential policies of Trump’s second term has been his use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to target alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. …

Border Security

President Trump signed two executive orders his first day in office to reduce illegal immigration. He also declared a national emergency to enable the military to help with border security.

The result: the number of southern border apprehensions in March — 7,181 — was the lowest since monthly data started being collected in 2000, according to Reuters. The previous low? About 8,300 in February 2025. That prompted Trump to declare “The Invasion of our Country is OVER” …

Student Visas — Revocations and Arrests

It’s unclear how many student visas of international students have been revoked. Secretary of State Marco Rubio estimated 300 in late March. Inside Higher Ed reports more than 1,500 international students have lost their visas since April 7. It also has a map that breaks down the numbers by school.

The American Association of Immigration Lawyers says ICE has terminated the records of 4,700 international students since Trump took office. Some are fighting back in court. …

Tariffs

This could easily fall under International Relations or even Economic Policy, but we felt it warranted its own category, given how tariffs have been a constant theme throughout Trump’s second term — even before his “Liberation Day” announcement. From the on-again, off-again tariffs on Canada to his use of tariff threats as leverage with other countries, it’s been a defining feature of his approach.

Trump rocked the financial and international world on April 2 when he announced across-the-board tariffs of 10% and additional reciprocal tariffs against 57 countries the administration considers unfair traders. The president then paused the reciprocal tariffs on all countries except China just as they were about to take effect, while also increasing tariffs against China. He did that after China imposed tariffs of 84% on American products. …

DOGE and Elon Musk

The Elon Musk-run Department of Government Efficiency says it’s saved $160 billion so far. Racket has produced timelines on cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Education, which are ranked #1 and #3 on DOGE’s “Agency Efficiency” leaderboard.

The pushback has been intense, …

Higher Education

The Trump administration has suspended federal money or threatened to do so against several universities over what it considers failures to address antisemitism and DEI programs the administration believes are discriminatory.

Harvard is the most notable. https://www.zerohedge.com/political/recap-trumps-first-three-months

The above “recap” missed many items of prophetic significance.

Donald Trump’s art of the deal in this term is certainly consistent with the madman theory of foreign policy.

There have been, and will continue to be, many intended prophetic consequences of the Trump-Vance Administration.

Here is something I wrote that was published a few days BEFORE Donald Trump took office this year and it is available at Amazon Kindle: Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies? as well as Amazon print Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?:

The Washington Post reported in late 2016 that Donald Trump admired Richard Nixon. It also reported:

Donald Trump appears to have embraced, with gusto, Richard Nixon’s “Madman Theory” of foreign policy. He thinks he can use his reputation for unpredictability and lack of respect for long-standing international norms to unnerve and then intimidate America’s adversaries into making concessions that they would not otherwise make. (Hohmann J, Deppisch B. The Daily 202: Donald Trump embraces the risky ‘Madman Theory’ on foreign policy. Washington Post, December 20, 2016)

Donald Trump’s foreign policy statements have unsettled many—in the USA as well as foreign nations. He is believed by many to be more unpredictable than Richard Nixon. Many have rightly pointed out that he often acts as a bully. …

Donald Trump is Fulfilling End Time Prophecy

Donald Trump is clearly an apocalyptic leader (cf. 2 Timothy 3:1-5). Although he is not the final Antichrist that the Bible warns about, Donald Trump has been helping fulfill many aspects of prophecy. Donald Trump is expected to help enable the rise of the final Antichrist—so will any possible successor to him.

Donald Trump has supported Islamic goals for an Arabic-confederation indirectly, and sometimes more directly, which will lead to a leader rising up over certain Islamic lands (Daniel 11:40; Ezekiel 30:1-8).

While I believe that he believes he wants to help, certain of his actions are pointing to destruction.

Donald Trump has made political, economic, and military statements which will ultimately help the rise of the upcoming Beast power in Europe. Donald Trump seems to think the relationship between Europe and the USA is better than it really is.

This European Beast power will, after it has a prophesied reorganization and rises up, destroy the United States (Daniel 11:39). And the leader of this power is supposed to rise up “When the transgressors have reached their fullness,” (Daniel 8:23).

Donald Trump has specifically caused people of the United States to err further away from biblical morality, which will lead to destruction (Isaiah 3:12; 9:16). Instead of advocating what should be considered as biblical morality, he has pushed positions that are clearly opposed to the laws of God (e.g. Romans 1:18-32).

He has advocated policies (as have others) which are expected to increase the debt of the USA, hurt its military superiority, lead to civil unrest (cf. Deuteronomy 32:25), and set the USA up for ruin (Habakkuk 2:6-8).

Unintended Consequences

While Donald Trump seems to believe that his policies are best for the United States, notice some unintended consequences of them:

• While promoting peace is good, once the Middle East deal is confirmed by a European leader (called a prince in Daniel 9:26), the 3 ½ year countdown to the start of the Great Tribulation and the conquering of the USA and its British-descended allies will begin.
• Pushing tariffs and sanctions on other countries is contributing to the rise of the final time of the Gentiles (Luke 21:24; Ezekiel 7:24).
• Pushing tariffs and other policies that foreign nations do not like is contributing to other nations looking to bypass the USA dollar, as well as trade more with each other and less with the USA. This will further push various globalist’s moves forward without the USA. This is also helping set the stage for the coming European Babylonian Beast to dominate international trade.
• Although national repentance could delay the coming conquering (cf. Daniel 4:27) of the USA (Daniel 11:39), Donald Trump instead is focused more on economic matters. Since that repentance is not expected, a European will end up in charge (cf. Hosea 11:1a, 3a, 4b, 5b-7).
• Focusing on Bitcoin, instead of gold, will not provide the USA with the financial stability that it wants. Instead it looks to be another reason other nations will accumulate gold. Gold which will outlast the dollar of the USA.
• The Bible warns against condoning sexual immorality as deadly (Romans 1:18-32), and that is something that Donald Trump does not seem to realize.
• Pushing debt increasing policies will put the USA into a position where it will be conquered, consistent with Habakkuk 2:6-8. This will lead to the land of the USA being divided (cf. Daniel 11:39; Lamentations 4:16; Amos 7:17).
• Pushing against Europe’s unity is encouraging the Europeans, which are prophesied to have unity difficulties (cf. Daniel 2:41-43), to try harder to unify, which will happen after at least two reorganizations (Revelation 17:12-13).
• By breaking political norms and acting like a ‘strong man’ this will help Europeans being more accepting of their beast ‘strong man’ (Revelation 13:1-10; 17:13).
• Donald Trump’s statements will help promote the rise of stronger European leaders like Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg.
• Although, overall, the European nations have not paid for their defense to the amount they have suggested they would, pressuring them to spend more will 1) encourage them to be independent of the USA and 2) put Europe in a position where it has a great army (Daniel 11:25), many ships (Daniel 11:40), and access to nuclear weapons (cf. Deuteronomy 29:23-25; Isaiah 9:19-21;Ezekiel 6:6), which will help it conquer the USA, which is the military power with the strongest fortresses (cf. Daniel 11:39).

Christians are to “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). By faith we trust the prophecies in the word of God over plans of humans (cf. Psalm 118:9).

That is one way for Christians to avoid negative “unintended consequences.”

More items, as well as specific predictions related to the presidency of Donald Trump are in the Amazon Kindle book: Unintended Consequences and Donald Trump’s Presidency: Is Donald Trump Fulfilling Biblical, Islamic, Greco-Roman Catholic, Buddhist, and other America-Related Prophecies?

Now since that book came out, world events have aligned with several warning, predictions, and unintended consequences pointed to in it. Below, in italics, are statements from that book, with the page numbers where the prediction can be found in the printed book shown within ():

1. Pushing tariffs and other policies that foreign nations do not like is contributing to other nations looking to bypass the USA dollar, as well as trade more with each other and less with the USA. This will further push various globalist’s moves forward without the USA. (p.210) Confirmation: Because of tariff threats from Donald Trump, on 1/21/25, EU President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Europe would seek out others to trade with (https://www.politico.eu/article/eu-donald-trump-america-we-have-other-options-ursula-von-der-leyen/). On 2/27/25, Ursula von der Leyen went to India to push for closer trade ties for reasons including Donald Trump’s tariff pushing (https://www.dw.com/en/von-der-leyen-arrives-in-india-to-strengthen-partnership/a-71768504). On 4/16/25 she declared that, “Everyone is asking for more trade with Europe” https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/04/16/the-west-as-we-knew-it-no-longer-exists-von-der-leyen-says-amid-trump-tensions.
2. Gold will set records in U.S. dollar terms. … … gold will set further records in U.S. dollar terms in the relatively near future. (pp. 205, 206) Confirmation: Gold hit a record price on 1/31/25 (https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/gold-hits-record-high-trump-tariff-worries-mount-2025-01-31/) and did it again on 02/10/25 as well as in March and April. The record price of gold reflects a record minimum value in gold for the USA dollar.
3. Expect more protests against Donald Trump. (p. 15) There are issues with what Donald Trump says when he speaks. I expect protests. (p. 44). Donald Trump has been a polarizing figure and has offended many including minorities, migrants, and Muslims. Expect civil unrest and rioting. The Bible prophesies “There shall be terror within” (Deuteronomy 32:25). (p. 89). Confirmation: Numerous protests as well as some violence have begun 03/17/25 (https://www.npr.org/2025/03/17/nx-s1-5328626/elon-musk-protests-tesla-takedown) and 03/16/25 (https://endoftheamericandream.com/why-is-the-media-so-quiet-about-the-anti-trump-violence-that-is-erupting-all-over-the-nation/)
4. One of the unintended consequence of his actions is, that after crises (cf. Revelation 6:7-8), more Europeans will decide that they need their own even stronger leader—which will happen per Revelation 13:10 and 17:13. (pp. 58-59) Partial confirmation: This already started to happen at a European political conference on 2/08/25 (https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/02/08/your-time-is-over-far-right-leaders-take-on-the-eus-mainstream-parties). And at least one German politician, Friedrich Merz, has been called ‘The Führer ‘ on 03/23/25 (https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/fuhrer-germany-friedrich-merz-war-spending-frenzy) and on 4/10/25  “The man Europe has been waiting for” and he stated “Germany is getting a strong and capable government” (https://www.yahoo.com/news/friedrich-merz-man-europe-waiting-161655776.html).
5. Donald Trump has often encouraged increased military spending by the Europeans. … Donald Trump is helping enable the rise of the King of the North/Beast power who will be in league with the final Antichrist. (p. 87) Partial confirmation: This is partially confirmed as Kaja Kallas, Vice President of the European Commission stated on 1/22/25 that Europe needs to spend more as Donald Trump called for (https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/01/22/eu-must-spend-more-than-1-of-gdp-on-defence-to-prepare-for-the-worst-kallas-says). On 3/04/25, EU President von der Leyen proposed spending €800 on the military (https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/03/04/von-der-leyen-pitches-800bn-defence-package-ahead-of-eu-leaders-summit). About the same time, Germany’s Friedrich Merz proposed spending €1 trillion (https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news/cdu-spd-constitutional-amendment-defence-infrastructure-spending-bypassing-new-bundestag/). “Europe has become convinced that its American ally will no longer guarantee its security, and has decided to rearm massively” 03/26/25 (https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/03/26/readiness-2030-how-is-europe-planning-to-rearm-and-can-it-afford-it).
6. Donald Trump’s rise has also spurred the Europeans to further unify among themselves. … Donald Trump has been pointed to by various European leaders as ‘proof’ that Europe needs more unification and distance from the USA. (p. 88) Partial confirmation: More of this has since happened (https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/01/22/eu-must-spend-more-than-1-of-gdp-on-defence-to-prepare-for-the-worst-kallas-says and https://www.msn.com/en-gb/money/other/eu-enlargement-debate-at-davos-focuses-on-europe-s-global-role-and-growth/ar-AA1xBhgq?ocid=finance-verthp-feeds) and a EU foreign ministers meeting on 1/27/25 called for a unified approach to deal with US President Donald Trump and what analysts refer to as his “divide and rule policy” (https://www.dw.com/en/eu-sanctions-russia-trump-2025/a-71427544). Europeans have called for a “New World Order Based on European Values” 03/24/25 (https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/new-world-order-european-values-unholy-union-globalism-and-anti-free-speech-measures). And “the old world order appears to be over – and the new world order has yet to take shape” 03/26/25 (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2er9j83x0zo). On 4/16/25, EU President von der Leyen basically confirmed European unity and distance from the US and apparently because of Donald Trump stated, “The West as we knew it no longer exists,” (https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/04/16/the-west-as-we-knew-it-no-longer-exists-von-der-leyen-says-amid-trump-tensions).
7. Donald Trump … Many have rightly pointed out that he often acts as a bully. (p. 47). Confirmation: This has happened within weeks of Donald Trump taking office (e.g. https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/europe/trump-zelensky-us-deal-ukraine-russia-war-b2702046.html) and https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2025-02-10/trump-is-not-an-isolationist-hes-a-bully-and-that-hurts-us-influence-in-the-world).
8. It is believed that Donald Trump will likely use some type of “maximum pressure” strategy again against Iran during his next Administration. (p. 67) Confirmation: This is now his Administration’s position and Iran is not happy with it (https://www.dw.com/en/iran-says-will-not-bow-to-us-maximum-pressure-strategy/a-71745081).

9. The Bible teaches about a great power who will be destroyed by its friends, who become enemies (Lamentations 1:1-2)—some statements by Donald Trump are pushing “friends” (NATO allies) into being enemies. (pp. 48-49) Partial Confirmation: It has been reported that Donald Trump is turning USA friends into enemies, “frenemies” (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c93ll927v18o). On 4/16/25, EU President von der Leyen would not confirm that the US was a friend (https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/04/16/the-west-as-we-knew-it-no-longer-exists-von-der-leyen-says-amid-trump-tensions). Statements from Trump-Vance Administration leaders have insulted Europe 03/25/25 (https://www.euronews.com/2025/03/25/pathetic-european-free-loading-us-officials-slam-europe-in-leaked-chat) ” “Horrific to see in black and white. But hardly surprising,” is how a top European diplomat reacted to what comes across as deep, heartfelt disdain for European allies” 03/25/25 (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c204vl27n2qo) and “nearly three quarters of French people now think that the United States is not an ally of France. A … very large majority in Denmark, … historically pro-American … have unfavourable views of the United States as well” 03/26/25 (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2er9j83x0zo)

10. Jesus warned about a coming time of pestilences as part of the beginning of sorrows (Matthew 24:4-8)—they are consistent with the ride of the 4^th horseman of the Apocalypse (Revelation 6:7-8)—that ride may well start in the second term of a Donald Trump Administration. Actions and/or inactions by Donald Trump will likely put the USA at increased risk of problems from pestilences. (p. 90) Potential confirmation: Donald Trump announced he is pulling the USA out of the World Health Organization (https://fortune.com/well/2025/01/21/trump-who-us-remove-world-health-organization/).

11. His policies are pushing nations away from the USA and helping set the stage for the final times of the Gentiles (cf. Ezekiel 7:24, 39:23; Luke 21:24). (p. 91) Potential confirmation: Donald Trump’s comments at the WEF reportedly silenced the crowd and made them “stone-faced” (Donald Trump speaks virtually to the WEF’s Davos meeting and pushes USA fossil fuels and trade matters). These leaders were not pleased and will take actions. Ursula von der Leyen said “Europe will keep seeking co-operation — not only with our long-time, like-minded friends, but with any country we share interests with” https://www.politico.eu/article/eu-donald-trump-america-we-have-other-options-ursula-von-der-leyen/. She also on 4/16/25 confirmed that many nations are contacting the EU, because of US tariff and other actions https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/04/16/the-west-as-we-knew-it-no-longer-exists-von-der-leyen-says-amid-trump-tensions.
12. His statements are getting more in Europe to consider that they need to reorganize and support some type of a strong man leader. The Bible shows that will happen in Revelation 17:12-13. (p. 91) Speculative confirmation: I cannot imagine that at the WEF and within the EU they are not discussing something like a stronger European leader and a reorganization of Europe. For example the chief executive of a European bank at the WEF conference stated,  “I heard the EU talking about the willingness to make changes,” and “The truth of the matter is every time they do something they create more bureaucracy, more complexity. They need to have a huge reset” (https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/jan/24/davos-donald-trump-tariffs-eu-us). Germans have noticed that what they call the “far right” is gaining because of Donald Trump and that right wing leaders look more useful now (https://www.german-foreign-policy.com/en/news/detail/9836 01/21/25). Furthermore, EU President Von der Leyen said this week, “To sustain our growth in the next quarter of the century, Europe must shift gears,” (https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/jan/24/davos-donald-trump-tariffs-eu-us) that sounds like a plea to reorganize.
13. Official USA debt will rise in Donald Trump’s second term in office. Donald Trump supported a bill to increase debt 03/15/25 (https://www.barrons.com/articles/ai-stocks-nvidia-amazon-microsoft-coreweave-ipo-ddee09ff)

There will be many unintended consequences of the Trump-Vance Administration. Donald Trump was not sent by God to save America.

Now look at part of number 22 of my 2024 list of 25 items to prophetically watch in 2025:

22. Reelection of Donald Trump and His Adminstration

In the Bible News Prophecy magazine, October-December 2024 edition, number 22 was listed as “The Incoming US Presidential Administration”

So, it was renamed.

The reelection of Donald Trump has sent shockwaves throughout the world as well as through the legacy media of the United States.

It has brought both hope to some and worry to others.

Donald Trump will be apocalyptic. At least 20 warnings/predictions I made before his last Administration assumed office came to pass (for details see Donald Trump in Prophecy).

Look for Donald Trump and His Administration to offend the Europeans, cause international trade concerns, push many nations further away from the United States, change matters in Ukraine, affect matters in the Middle East, impact US energy production, impact immigration, impact the move away from the US dollar, and further divide many in the United States.

Notice the last statement above.

ALL of those things have happened since the inauguration.

There have been many prophetic and other unintended consequences of the Trump-Vance Administration–and there will be more.

The United States needs repentance, the return of Jesus, and the coming Kingdom of God.

Conclave official movie poster

COGwriter

Last Fall, my wife and I saw the movie Conclave.

Here is some of what Wikipedia reported about it:

Conclave is a 2024 mystery thriller film directed by Edward Berger and written by Peter Straughan, based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris. The film stars Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini. In the film, Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Fiennes) organizes a papal conclave to elect the next pope and finds himself investigating secrets and scandals about each candidate.

Conclave premiered at the 51st Telluride Film Festival on 30 August 2024, was theatrically released in the United States by Focus Features on 25 October 2024 and in the United Kingdom by Black Bear UK on 29 November.

The film basically shows that corruption, politics, and plotting are all used in the process to elect a pope. Anyway, that movie is getting a lot of viewership this week, since the death of Francis was announced.

Notice also the following:

April 23, 2025

As the Vatican prepares for the secret meeting of cardinals who will pick a successor to Pope Francis, forget – to some extent – what you may have learned from “Conclave”, last year’s hit movie depicting high-level power games and backstabbing among the red-robed clerics.

The conclave of the so-called “Princes of the Church” that will elect a new pope is expected to start some time between May 6 and May 11. It will follow Francis’ funeral on Saturday and wider consultations among cardinals, known as general congregations. …

The word “conclave” comes from the Latin “cum clave” (with a key), referring to the Medieval practice of locking cardinals up in a room until they make a decision on a new pope. That is still essentially how it works today. …
Entertainment industry data firm Luminate reported that U.S. streaming viewership figures for “Conclave” rose by 283% on Monday compared to the previous day. https://www.reuters.com/world/forget-film-vatican-is-preparing-real-conclave-2025-04-23/

Let it be pointed out that there is nothing resembling a pope or conclave authorized in the Bible.

Nor was this a practice of early Christians, the original catholics. Here is something from my free online book Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church: Could a remnant group have continuing apostolic succession?:

Thousands of years ago, pagan emperors used to use the title Pontifex Maximus. This is NOT a title listed in the Bible.

Tertullian wrote about a corrupt (according to one or more Roman Catholic saints) Roman bishop named Callistus:

The Pontifex Maximus — that is, the bishop of bishops — issues an edict: “I remit, to such as have discharged (the requirements of) repentance, the sins both of adultery and of fornication.” (Tertullian. On Modesty. In Ante-Nicene Fathers)

Basically, Tertullian said Callistus was following in the practices of pagan leaders, like the Pontifex Maximus. Calling a professed Christian leader the “Pontifex Maximus” was considered to be highly insulting. Perhaps it should be pointed out that while God does tend to have one main leader at a time, nothing in the Bible tells of a title like “bishop of the bishops.”

Yet, a version of that title was given to the Roman bishop Damasus by Roman Emperor Theodosius:

Imppp. Gratianus, Valentinianus et Theodosius aaa. edictum ad populum … declarat quamque pontificem Damasum sequi claret et Petrum Alexandriae episcopum virum apostolicae sanctitatis, (380 febr. 27). (IMPERATORIS THEODOSII CODEX, LIBER DECIMUS SEXTUS, CTh.16.1.3,)

Imperial emperors Gratian, Valentinian and Theodosius {sent} out a decree to the people … declares that the high pontiff Damasus and by Peter, bishop of Alexandria, a man of apostolic holiness, (IMPERATORIS THEODOSII CODEX, LIBER DECIMUS SEXTUS, CTh.16.1.3, February 27, 380. Translated by Bob Thiel)

So, in 380 the Bishop of Rome was formally granted the title “high pontiff.” Sometimes rendered as ‘supreme bridger’ or ‘supreme bridge builder.’

Roman Catholic sources claim that Damasus’ successor, Siricius then picked up the title pope:

SIRICIUS, ST. (384-399) … was the first to assume the title of pope from the Greek papa meaning father (Lopes, p. 13).

Since Jesus taught:

⁹ And call none your father upon earth; for one is your father, who is in heaven. (Matthew 23:9, DRB)

Taking the pagan title pontiff as well as the title pope (meaning father) would have sent a strong signal to those who wanted to hold to the original faith that many in Rome had clearly changed.

This, along with the acceptance of other changes, may be part of the reason that some Paulicians and other groups began to call the Roman Catholic pontiff the “Antichrist” in the 4^th and later centuries (Newman JH. The Protestant Idea of Antichrist. [British Critic, Oct. 1840]. Newman Reader — Works of John Henry Newman. Copyright © 2004 by The National Institute for Newman Studies).

It was not until the year 1059 that it was decided that Cardinals (a non-biblical office) would vote for a pontifex maximus (a non-biblical office). Perhaps it should be pointed out that the pontifex maximus was the highest-ranking religious official in ancient pagan Rome, and a title that Roman emperors took. It was after one (Gratian) refused to take the pagan title that a Bishop of Rome assumed a version of it in the late 4th century.

It is highly possible that the next man elected pope will be an antipope as well as the final Antichrist of scripture (see also Some Doctrines of Antichrist).

Related to an antipope, Greco-Roman Catholic writings point to one. Here is some information related to that from my book:

Roman Catholic Prophets/Writers Have Warned that a Major “Antipope” is to Come

Various Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies warn that a major “antipope” and major schism is to come. Since there has not been an antipope since the 15^th century, for numerous reasons these could be interpreted to mean that a 21^st century pope will be an antipope who will implement changes:

Anne Catherine Emmerick (May 13, 1820): I saw again a new and odd-looking Church which they were trying to build. There was nothing holy about it … THIS IS BABEL.[i]

Yves Dupont {writer interpreting A. Emmerick}: They wanted to make a new Church, a Church of human manufacture, but God had other designs … The Holy Father shall have to leave Rome, and he shall die a cruel death. An anti-pope shall be set up in Rome.[ii]

Anne Catherine Emmerich (January 12, 1820):  There is now some question of Protestants sharing in the government of the Catholic clergy.[iii]

Anne Catherine Emmerich (July 1820):  I came to the church of Peter and Paul (Rome) and saw a dark world of distress, confusion, and corruption…[iv]

Anne Catherine Emmerich (January 27, 1822):  I saw many Christians returning to the bosom of the Church, entering through the walls.  That Pope will be strict, he will remove the lukewarm, tepid Bishops—but it will be a long time before this happens.[v]

Anne Catherine Emmerich (October 22, 1822): I saw in Germany among the worldly-wise ecclesiastics, and enlightened Protestants, plans formed for the blending of all religious creeds…[vi]

Anne Catherine Emmerich (April, 1823): They built a large, singular, extravagant church which was to embrace all creeds with equal rights: Evangelicals, Catholics, and all denominations, a true communion of the unholy with one shepherd and one flock.  There was to be a Pope, a salaried Pope without possessions.[vii]

Melanie Mathieu (19^th century): Rome will lose faith and become the seat of Antichrist.[viii]

Jeanne le Royer (died 1798): I see that when the Second Coming of Christ approaches a bad priest will do much harm to the Church.[ix]

St. Gregory the Great, Pope (d. 604): In those days, near the end … an army of priests and two-thirds of the Christians will join the Schism.[x]

Yves Dupont {reader and collector of Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies}: “prophecies are quite explicit about the election of an anti-pope … Many prophecies predict an anti-pope and a schism”.[xi]

Roman Catholic priest and writer R. Gerald Culleton (20^th century): A schism of short duration is destined to break out … An antipope, of German origin, is to be set up, and finally Rome itself will be destroyed”.[xii]

Frederick William Faber (died 1863): Antichrist … Many believe in a demonical incarnation–this will not be so–but he will be utterly possessed … His doctrine as apparent contradiction of no religion, yet a new religion … He has an attending pontiff, so separating regal and prophetic office.[xiii]

Blessed Joachim (died 1202): Towards the end of the world Antichrist will overthrow the Pope and usurp his See.[xiv]

Merlin (7^th century): There will come a German Anti-Pope. Italy and Germany will be sorely troubled. A French King will restore the true Pope.[xv]

St. Francis of Assisi (died 1226): There will be an uncanonically elected pope who will cause a great Schism, there will be divers thoughts preached which will cause many, even those in the different orders, to doubt, yea even agree with those heretics which will cause My order to divide, then will there be such universal dissentions and persecutions that if these days were not shortened even the elect would be lost.[xvi]

Capuchin Friar (18^th century): During these calamities the Pope shall die … three popes shall be simultaneously elected … the third … by force of arms, shall be placed on the throne.[xvii]

Priest E. Sylvester Berry (published 1920): It has been a matter of history that the most disastrous periods for the Church were times when the Papal throne was vacant or when anti-popes contended with the legitimate head of the Church. Thus shall it be in those evil days to come.[xviii]

Roman Catholic writer and priest P. Huchedé (19^th century): … the false prophet … will not be a king, nor a general of an army, but a clever apostate, fallen from episcopal dignity. From being an apostle of the Gospel he will become the first preacher of the false messiah …[xix]

Roman Catholic Priest Herman Kramer (20^th century): This false prophet possibly at the behest of Antichrist usurps the papal supremacy.[xx]

Roman Catholic writers Ted and Maureen Flynn (1993): Catholic prophecy warns us of severe problems threatening the papacy in these end times … An Antipope will seize papal authority … It will be those who hold fast to the truths of the faith who will be labelled as the perpetuators of this horrible schism, according to some visionaries.[xxi]

Roman Catholic Priest Paul Kramer reported: In 1999 … Malachi Martin stated … that Our Lady’s words were very dry and specific and they foretold of a future “pope” (not the true Pope, but a heretical antipope) who would be completely under the control of the devil.[xxii]

Priest Paul Kramer (21^st century): The errors of Orthodoxy and of Protestantism will be embraced by that false church, it will be an ecumenical church because the Anti-Pope will be recognized by the world — not by the faithful, but by the world — by the secular world and the secular governments. The Anti-Pope will be recognized as the legitimate Pope of the “church,” and the legitimate head of the Vatican State. That “church” will be united with all the false religions.[xxiii]

Priest Paul Kramer (21^st century): The counterfeit “Catholic” Church — the counter-church, the anti-church — the mystery of the dragon, whose tail swept down a third of the “stars of Heaven,” i.e. one third of the Catholic hierarchy under the leadership of a heretical antipope.[xxiv]

Priest Herman Kramer (20^th century): In accord with the text this is unmistakably a PAPAL ELECTION . . . But at this time the great powers may take a menacing attitude to hinder the election of the logical and expected candidate by threats of a general apostasy, assassination or imprisonment of this candidate if elected. This would suppose an extremely hostile mind in the governments of Europe towards the Church, because an extended interregnum in the papacy is always disastrous and more so in a time of universal persecution. If Satan would contrive to hinder a papal election, the Church would suffer great travail … one … destined for the papacy at the time will institute the needed reforms. A general council may decree the reforms…The lax clergy at the time will extol the conditions then existing…The dragon is a symbolic term for the evil world powers…They will try to make the Church a “state church” everywhere. This is only possible if they can subject the pope to their wills and compel him to teach and rule as they direct. That would be literally devouring the papacy.[xxv]

Roman Catholic author and collector of prophecies D. Birch (20^th century): Many, many, of the prophecies refer to an Antipope for sometime in the future during which great calamities occur to the Church.[xxvi]

Even the Roman Catholic saint “Pope Gregory the Great” warned that he believed that the time would come when most Roman Catholics would fall for a changed church (which he called a “schism”) in the time of the end.  Would this not take a leader that would be, or at least be like, an antipope or the final Antichrist?

As the list above shows, there are many Greco-Roman Catholic writers/saints who have warned of some type of an antipope, maybe even the False Prophet, who could be ecumenical, would lead a compromised church, and may listen to the powers of governments in Europe and, possibly, elsewhere.

The Bible, itself, warns of a time when a European Beast will make some type of deal with an ecumenical Roman religious leader (the False Prophet) and later turn on a compromised church (cf. Revelation 17:15-18; 19:20).

An Ecumenical Pope is Prophesied

On the other hand, there are a variety of Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies that seem to look forward to an ecumenical pope. This pope will endorse a European leader who comes into power after civil unrest in Europe.  This European leader is to establish a new order within Catholicism and essentially eliminate Islam:

Bl. Anna-Maria Taigi (19^th century): France shall fall into a frightful anarchy. The French shall have a desperate civil war in the course of which even old men will take up arms. The political parties, having exhausted their blood and their rage without being able to arrive at any satisfactory settlement, shall agree at the last extremity to have recourse to the Holy See. Then the Pope shall send to France a special legate … In consequence of the information received, His Holiness himself shall nominate a most Christian King for the government of France … [xxvii]

Bl. Anna Maria Taigi (19^th century) … described to me the great ordeal ahead. Rome would be battered by revolutions … Millions of men would die by the sword in war and civil strife, other millions would perish in unforeseen death. Then entire nations would return to the unity of the Church, and many Turks, Pagans and Jews would be converted and their fervour cover with confusion the original Christians. In one word she told me that our Lord was intending to cleanse the world and His Church … [xxviii]

Brother John of the Cleft Rock (1340): The White Eagle (Great Monarch), by order of the Archangel Michael, will drive the crescent from Europe where none but Christians will remain … There will no longer be … Schismatics … [xxix]

St. Bridget of Sweden (died 1373): The Eagle … He will destroy the Jewish and Mahometan sects.[xxx]

Telesphorus of Cozensa (died 1388): A powerful French monarch and French pope will regain the holy land after terrible wars in Europe, convert the world, and bring universal peace.[xxxi]

Birch (20^th century): Civil war will break out in France and Italy … The Great King will be crowned Holy Roman Emperor by the reigning Pope. The Great King will establish Peace and justice in civil matters on a worldwide basis, and protect the primacy of the Church in spiritual matters. The former disciplines of the Church are fully restored and order is re-established …[xxxii]

St. Francis de Paul (1470): The time is coming when the Divine Majesty will visit the world with a new religious order of the holy Cross-bearers … This shall be the last religious order in the Church, and will do more good for our holy religion than all other religious institutions. By force of arms he shall take possession of a great kingdom. He shall destroy the sect of Mahomet, extirpate all tyrants and heresies. He will bring the world to a holy mode of life. There will be one fold and one Shepherd.  He shall reign until the end of time…[xxxiii]

Comments from writer D.A. Birch on the above from his book: Francis … speaks in a series of letters to Simeon de Limena, Count of Montalto in great detail of a future Great Monarch who will be a Roman Emperor. Limena was a great patron of St. Francis’ order and also a great military protector of the Church … He is described as founding a new religious order. To the reader this may sound like he also becomes a priest. That is not the case. What happens is that he founds a religious order, part of which contains military men who take religious vows. He will be the head of the military arm of this order. In this sense it will be like the Knights Templar of the Middle Ages.[xxxiv]

Birch (commenting further in his book): Many of the prophecies speak of the fact that the Great King at first will not be well-liked, especially by the French clergy.[xxxv]

St. Methodius (circa 385): A time will come when the enemies of Christ will boast … Then a Roman emperor will arise in great fury against them … Drawing his sword, he will fall on the foes of Christianity and crush them.[xxxvi]

Laurence Ricci, S.J. (died 1775): At a time when the whole world seems doomed, God will intervene. With His aide a valiant duke will arise from the ancient German house which was humiliated by the French monarch. This great ruler will restore stolen Church property. Protestantism will cease and the Turkish empire will end. This duke will be the most powerful monarch on earth. At a gathering of men noted for piety and wisdom he will, with the aid of the Pope, introduce new rules, and ban the spirit of confusion. Everywhere there will be one fold and one shepherd.[xxxvii]

Notice that Francis de Paul prophesied that there will be a new essentially Roman Catholic religious order that will do more good for the Roman Catholic Church than all other religious institutions as it will eliminate nearly all opposition.  This is apparently because the King of the North will successfully work with the Pope to make the world nominally Catholic.

However, notice that some of the Roman Catholic clergy will at first oppose this new order and these changes to Catholicism, but that the pope (probably the final one, and possibly the current one) will embrace them.

While some Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies praise a new religious order, others indicate that a new type of Catholicism will not be true to some of its beliefs. Some Greco-Roman Catholics have felt that some of their “ecumenical leaders” have not been truly faithful to the beliefs of the Church of Rome and/or the Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church.

Notice what some other Roman Catholics have written about future ecumenical plans:

Oba Prophecy: It will come when the Church authorities issue directives to support a new cult, when priests are forbidden to celebrate in any other, when the highest positions in the Church are given to perjurers and hypocrites, when only the renegades are admitted to occupy those positions.[xxxviii]

D.A. Birch (20^th century): “The Pope calls an Ecumenical Council which will be viewed as the greatest in the history of the Church. The world is spiritually and materially prosperous as never before and many Jews, Mohammedans, heathens and heretics will enter the Church”.[xxxix]

Venerable Bartholomew Holzhauser (Born in the 17th century, in Germany): God will bind Satan for a number of years until the days of the Son of Perdition … there will be an ecumenical council which will be the greatest of all councils. By the grace of God, by the power of the Great Monarch, and by the authority of the Holy Pontiff, and by the union of the most devout princes, atheism and every heresy will be banished from the earth.  The Council will define the true sense of Holy Scripture, and this will be believed and accepted by everyone. [xl]

Priest Herman Kramer (20^th century): … the Apocalypse … The thunders may mean the dogmatic declarations of the Church against infidels expressed in an ecumenical council…such as that of…the Infallibility of the Pope…The Seven Thunders may then be declarations of an ecumenical council clearing up all that was left unfinished by the magisterial office of the Church, before God will permit Satan to exert his supreme efforts to destroy her from without.  The Seven Thunders will strengthen the faithful and loyal clergy …[xli]

The Bible teaches that the Seven Thunders happen near the end (cf. Revelation 10:1-4), so this ecumenical council would be expected to be near the end.  It also teaches that the successful ecumenical religion (Revelation 13:4,8) will not have God’s approval (Revelation 14,18).

Yet, certain private prophecies seem to praise the success of this ecumenical movement:

Blessed Anna-Maria Taigi (19th century): Whole nations will come back to the Church and the face of the earth will be renewed. Russia … and China will come into the Church.[xlii]

St. Bridget (14th century): Before Antichrist comes, the portals of Faith will be opened to great numbers of pagans.[xliii]

Venerable Magdalene Porzat (died 1850) (Great Monarch) … shall … restore to their dominions the legitimate kings. A just and pious man born in Galacia shall be the Supreme Pontiff: then the whole world will be united and prosperous. One faith only and one emperor shall reign over the whole earth.[xliv]

Cardinal La Roque (c. 18th century): A regeneration of Faith will appear in Asia.[xlv]

Mother Alphonse Eppinger (1867): After God has purified the world faith and peace will return. Whole nations will adhere to the teachings of the Catholic Church.[xlvi]

Pope Leo XIII (1893): To take care, therefore, of the preservation and propagation of the Catholic religion among the Hindus, a Hindu clergy has to be formed that could administer the sacraments and govern the Christian people properly, no matter how menacing the times…Be sure that the role of Christianity in such remote regions becomes well known. Make your people understand that something must be done for the Hindus.[xlvii]

We see from the above that certain Greco-Roman Catholics expect those in China, Russia, India, and elsewhere to accept their religion in the end.

But it should also be pointed out that there are Chinese and Hindu prophecies that suggest that the Chinese and Hindus will accept false militaristic and/or religious leaders.

First notice two Hindu-related sources:

Vijay Kumar (21^st century): For the society to climb back to its pristine glory of the golden era… even the meek would handle metal (pick arms). Whatever the poor and the downtrodden lay their hands upon would become their weapon … people await with abated breath the coming of Bhagwan Kalki … one who delivers the mankind from the existing ills of today. Bhagwan Kalki would be a spiritual master of the highest order with the deadly combination of a wise dictator (Chanakya of the modern era) …[xlviii]

Hindu Prophecies: In all, the Hindu text of Kalki Purana is comprised of 6100 verses describing … Kalki, who is considered the last Avtar or incarnation of Vishnu or the Supreme Being, who will establish the Age of Truth or Age of Purity on Earth … As agreed by all the religious prophecies, the Awaited One will not be a man of peace like Jesus Christ or Buddha, but a man of war who will destroy evil and establish righteousness on the earth.[xlix]

Furthermore, notice the following Chinese prophecies from the time of the Tang Dynasty (618–907 A.D.):

Beautiful people come from the West.  Korea, China and Japan are gradually at peace.[l]

All negative forces are subservient … China now has a saint.  Even if he is not that great a hero.[li]

So, apparently the Chinese people have a prophecy that they will accept leaders “from the West,” that the Chinese will have a saint (not something the Chinese normally have), and that this saint is not really that great.  Does not this sound like the Chinese may have a prediction that they are destined to accept the Beast and the False Prophet to rise up in Europe (which certainly is West of China)?

It would seem likely that some of the leadership in India and China may point to some prophecies from their own cultures as proof that they are to go along with the final compromised “Catholic” leaders.

But this acceptance of the “Catholic” leaders will not last.  According to biblical prophecy, those ends of the earth of the far north (Russia) and east (China) will fight the final European, “daughter of Babylon,” “King of the North” (e.g Jeremiah 50:41-43; Ezekiel 39:1-2; Daniel 11:44).

[i] Dupont, pp. 60, 116

[ii] Dupont, p. 116

[iii] ^{Emmerich AC. The Life and Revelations of Anne Catherine Emmerich, p.274}

[iv] ^{Ibid, p.130}

[v] ^{Ibid, p. 344}

[vi] ^{Ibid, p. 346}

[vii] ^{Ibid, p. 353}

[viii] ^{Culligan E. The Last World War and the End of Time. The book was blessed by Pope Paul VI, 1966. TAN Books, Rockford (IL), pp. 173.  Note this was approved for publication by the Catholic Bishop of Lecce, Italy in 1879 per Culligan, p. 169}

[ix] Culligan , p. 128

[x] ^{Culleton, R. Gerald. The Reign of Antichrist, p. 122}

[xi] Dupont, pp. 34,60-61

[xii] Culleton, p. 42

[xiii] Connor, p. 87

[xiv] Connor, p. 76

[xv] Culleton, p. 132

[xvi] Culleton, p. 130

[xvii] ^{Birch, p. 343}

[xviii] Berry ES.  The Apocalypse of St. John, 1920.  Quoted in Culleton RG.  The Reign of Antichrist.  Reprint 1974, TAN Books, Rockford (IL), p. 195

[xix] Huchedé, P. Translated by JBD. History of Antichrist. Imprimatur Edward Charles Fabre, Bishop of Montreal. English edition 1884, Reprint 1976. TAN Books, Rockford (IL), p. 24

[xx] Kramer HBL, p. 319

[xxi] ^{Flynn, p. 255}

[xxii] ^{Kramer P. The Pope Proclaims May 13 Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, p. 5}

[xxiii] Kramer P. The Imminent Chastisement for Not Fulfilling Our Lady’s Request. An edited transcript of a speech given at the Ambassadors of Jesus and Mary Seminar in Glendale, California, September 24, 2004. THE FATIMA CRUSADER Issue 80, Summer 2005, pp. 32-45 http://www.fatimacrusader.com/cr80/cr80pg32.asp viewed 4/15/08

[xxiv] ^{Kramer P. The Third Secret Reveals the Great Chastisement. The Fatima Crusader, 77, Summer 2004, p. 4}

[xxv] ^{Kramer H, pp. 278, 285}

[xxvi] ^{Birch, p. 343}

[xxvii] Dupont, p.45

[xxviii] Bessieres A. Wife, Mother and Mystic (Blessed Anna Maria Taigi). Nihil Obstat: Carlos Davis, S.T.L. Imprimatur: E Morrough Bernard, Westmonasteri, die Februari, 1952. Reprint TAN Books, Rockford (IL), 1982, p. 166

[xxix] Culleton, The Prophets and Our Times, p. 153

[xxx] Culleton , p. 154

[xxxi] Connor, pp. 34-35

[xxxii] Birch, p. 555

[xxxiii] Culleton, pp. 160-162

[xxxiv] Birch, pp.267-269

[xxxv] Birch, p. 276

[xxxvi] Culleton, The Prophets and Our Times, p. 110

[xxxvii] Connor, p.37

[xxxviii] Dupont, p. 115

[xxxix] Birch, p. 555

[xl] Dupont, p. 40

[xli] Kramer H., pp. 239,241-242

[xlii] Dupont, p.45

[xliii] Birch, 449

[xliv] Connor, p. 38

[xlv] Culleton, The Prophets and Our Times, p. 193

[xlvi] Connor, p.25

[xlvii] Leo XIII. AD EXTREMAS ON SEMINARIES FOR NATIVE CLERGY. Encyclical of Pope Leo XIII promulgated on June 24, 1893. http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/leo_xiii/encyclicals/documents/hf_l-xiii_enc_24061893_ad-extremas_en.html viewed 07/19/09

[xlviii] Kumar, Vijay. End of the World 2012. http://www.godrealized.com/2012.html viewed 01/18/09

[xlix] Hindu Prophecies: The Kalki Purana.  http://ww-iii.tripod.com/hindu.htm viewed 04/19/09

[l] Pui-Hua, p. 85

[li] Pui-Hua, p. 89

According to Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies, an ecumenical pope is prophesied.

According to Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies, a world religion will arise–a changed version of Roman Catholicism.

According to Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies, an antipope is prophesied.

According to Greco-Roman Catholic prophecies the final Antichrist may be a pope who may not have been properly elected.

According to the Bible a world religion is to arrive.

According to the Bible, the final Antichrist should soon arise.

This conclave could put that person in.

Let me add that this year is the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea. In the original one in 325 AD, Emperor Constantine pushed for his version of a world religion.

The celebrations for that in 2025 are essentially intended as an attempt to put in a type of world religion.

The old Worldwide Church of God wrote the following related to a set of Roman Catholic prophecies:

For your interest (or for whatever else it may be worth), an old Irish Catholic prophecy of the 12th Century predicts that there will be 265 popes before “the end of the world.” Pope John Paul I is number 263. The last, pope, according to this prophecy of “Malachy,” an old Irish bishop, is to take the name “Peter the Roman.” Time will have to judge the prophecy’s accuracy. (Hogberg G. A LOOK AT THE NEW ROMAN PONTIFF. Pastor General’s Report. August 29, 1978)

Gene Hogberg was off slightly. There were to be at least 266 pontiffs, not supposedly 265. And the Malachy list has 112 on it–the other listed pontiffs were prior to that list.

Technically, Pope Francis was 112 on that Malachy list–however, 1) it has long been held that there could be pontiffs between 111 and the final one and 2) because Benedict XVI was alive when Francis was voted in, some say he did not count. So, if that is the case, the next one MAY, if he performs various signs and wonders, by the last pope, who will be an antipope and the final Antichrist.

That said, for more on Roman Catholic and biblical prophecies related to a coming pontiff, we put out the following video:

Here is a link to our video: Malachy Prophecy, Francis, Doom in 2027?

Some items of related interest may include:

Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church: Could a remnant group have continuing apostolic succession? Did the original “catholic church” have doctrines held by the Continuing Church of God? Did Church of God leaders uses the term “catholic church” to ever describe the church they were part of? Here are links to related sermons: Original Catholic Church of God?, Original Catholic Doctrine: Creed, Liturgy, Baptism, Passover, What Type of Catholic was Polycarp of Smyrna?, Tradition, Holy Days, Salvation, Dress, & Celibacy, Early Heresies and Heretics, Doctrines: 3 Days, Abortion, Ecumenism, Meats, Tithes, Crosses, Destiny, and more, Saturday or Sunday?, The Godhead, Apostolic Laying on of Hands Succession, Church in the Wilderness Apostolic Succession List, Holy Mother Church and Heresies, and Lying Wonders and Original Beliefs. Here is a link to that book in the Spanish language: Creencias de la iglesia Católica original.
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 Roman 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?
The Last Pope: Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Amazon Book What does the Bible say about a pope near this time? Is the final pope to be an antipope and antichrist? Does Roman Catholic prophecy point to Pope Francis as being the dreaded “Peter the Roman”? This 186 page book provides information and answers.
The Last Pope: Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Kindle This electronic version of the printed book which is available for only US$2.99. And you do not need an actual Kindle device to read it. Why? Amazon will allow you to download it to almost any device: Please click HERE to download one of Amazon s Free Reader Apps. After you go to for your free Kindle reader and then go to The Last Pope: Do Biblical and Catholic Prophecies Point to Pope Francis? Kindle.

(Pixabay picture)

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How to forgive someone who isn’t sorry

Part of our series on America’s struggle for forgiveness.

Forgiveness is often viewed as the “happily ever after” ending in a story of wrongdoing or injustice. Someone enacts harm, the typical arc goes, but eventually sees the error of their ways and offers a heartfelt apology. “Can you ever forgive me?” Then you, the hurt person, are faced with a choice: Show them mercy — granting yourself peace in the process — or hold a grudge forever. …

It’s reasonable to expect an apology when you’re the one who has been hurt or betrayed. But that’s not how it works in practice. In fact, therapist Harriet Lerner writes in her book Why Won’t You Apologize?: Healing Big Betrayals and Everyday Hurts, the worse the offense, the more difficult it can be to get an apology from the person who harmed you. In those instances, Lerner writes, “Their shame leads to denial and self-deception that overrides their ability to orient toward reality.” And beyond this, there are other reasons you might be unable to get the apology you deserve. Maybe the other person isn’t aware of the harm they did to you, or they’ve disappeared, making contact impossible, or they’ve died.

Unfortunately, that puts you in a tough spot. How do you forgive someone who isn’t all that sorry, or who you can’t actually engage with?

To answer this question, Vox spoke to two experts: Robert Enright, a professor of education psychology at the University of Wisconsin Madison and a leader in the scientific study of forgiveness, and Laura Davis, the author of several books about estrangement and reconciliation, … Enright and Davis say that forgiving someone who is unrepentant is absolutely possible; here’s how to approach it.

Expand your view of what forgiveness is

In some ways, it’s easier to define forgiveness by what it isn’t. “Forgiveness is not excusing what the other did; that behavior was wrong, is wrong, and will always be wrong,” Enright says.

Both Enright and Davis say that forgiveness exists separately from reconciliation, and also from accountability — which is why forgiving someone doesn’t require an apology or even their participation. “Reconciliation is a negotiation strategy between two or more people trying to make their way back together to mutual trust,” explains Enright, whereas forgiveness is a one-way endeavor. Put another way: Forgiveness might be a step on the path to reconciliation, but you don’t have to traverse the full route if you’d prefer not to.

Enright also points out that while forgiveness is separate from accountability, it’s not at odds with seeking justice. “Many people think it’s either/or, rather than both,” he says. Forgiving someone can help you take a more clear-eyed approach to justice because you’re no longer, as he put it, “seething with rage.”

Perhaps most importantly, forgiveness doesn’t require you to pretend the hurt didn’t happen, to forgive and forget, or to ever speak to the person again. “When you forgive someone, it doesn’t mean you have to have any kind of ongoing relationship with them,” Davis says. “It’s an internal shift, where you’re no longer carrying the wound in the same way.”

Enright defines forgiveness as a moral virtue. Moral virtues (like kindness, honesty, and patience) are typically focused on how they benefit others; these are things you do primarily for another person’s sake, regardless of whether or not they have “earned” it.

“Forgiveness is a special kind of moral virtue that always and without exception occurs when the other person has been unfair to you,” Enright says. …

“Forgiveness is my safety valve against the kind of toxic anger that could kill me,” Enright says. “Waiting for the apology is to misunderstand your free will, and it’s to misunderstand the medicine that is forgiveness, that you should be able to take freely, whatever you want.” …

Enright says it’s reasonable to want to tend to your anger when someone has hurt you. “You can hang on to anger for a short time because it shows you’re a person of worth and dignity, and no one should treat you this way,” he says. “But then my question would be, if you hang on to that anger, what is it doing to you? Yes, it will empower you for a while. But characteristically over time, it brings us down with fatigue, rumination, becoming far more pessimistic in life.” 03/25/22 https://www.vox.com/22967752/how-to-forgive-someone-who-isnt-sorry-wont-apologize

Yes, it is good for us to be merciful and forgiving:

17 The merciful man does good for his own soul,
But he who is cruel troubles his own flesh.  (Proverbs 11:17)

In Matthew 18:7, Jesus said “offenses must come” so we should expect to be offended.

As far as forgiving someone who has not repented, Jesus prayed:

29 … “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” (Luke 23:29)

Remember that the Apostle Paul taught we were to imitate Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).

Our God is most merciful:

8 The Lord is merciful and gracious,
Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.  (Psalm 103:8)

Mercy mirrors God’s very character. God is truly a forgiving Father. We have to be His merciful and forgiving children.

Perhaps it should be mentioned that the NKJV Bible has the word mercy 282 times, mercies 38 times, merciful 39 times, forgive 53 times, forgivers twice, forgiving 4 times, and forgiveness 8 times. So a total of 426 times. Mer99cy and forgiveness are important to God and He wants you to know that, which is why His word teaches about them.

Now let’s look at some scriptural quotes related to what Jesus, Paul, Peter, and James taught related to mercy and forgiveness

First from Jesus:

35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. (Luke 6:35-36)

The Apostle Paul wrote:

4 … God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us (Ephesians 2:4)

Notice that love and mercy are tied together. If you want to develop love towards others as the Bible teaches, you need to be merciful.

Jesus also taught:

7 Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy. (Matthew 5:7)

Notice that this promise does not teach that the unmerciful will obtain mercy.

Since, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23), we all need mercy.

Jesus also taught:

23 “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things. (Matthew 23:23, New Living Translation)

Mercy is important and many people who think they are worshipping God have wrong priorities.

The Apostle Paul wrote the Colossians:

9 For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. (Colossians 1:9-12)

Being longsuffering includes being able to forgive trespasses against us.  Paul also told the Collossians:

12 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; 13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. 14 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. (Colossians 3:12-14)

Yes, love and forgive. Yet many, including Christians, do not seem to want to forgive and let go.

The Apostle Peter taught:

5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. (2 Peter 1:5-7)

Yes, we need self-control. The Bible says:

19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 Therefore

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:19-21)

It is good for us to forgive. We need to forgive and trust God to right most wrongs.

And God will judge.

But God also is merciful. We all need to be grateful that:

13 Mercy triumphs over judgment. (James 2:13)

Christians need to exercise the fruits of the Spirit and be more like God (Matthew 5:48; 1 Corinthians 11:1). And God has much more mercy, patience, and forgiveness than most seem to realize.

The Continuing Church of God (CCOG) also put out the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel:

19:26

Mercy and Forgiving Someone Who is NOT Sorry

We have all been hurt or offended by someone. As Christians, we know we are supposed to forgive. But what about forgiving someone who is not sorry? In this message, Dr. Thiel goes over ideas about forgiving the unrepentant from secular writers Harriet Lerner, Robert Enright, and Laura Davis. He then quotes the Apostle Paul and some passages in the Book of Proverbs. Dr. Thiel further quotes Jesus, the Apostle Peter, the Apostle James, and more from the Apostle Paul explaining why it is good for your well being to forgive and show mercy even to those who do not apologize to you. Mercy is one of the weightier matters of the law that Christians are to have.

That does not mean we should go around calling our enemies dogs or swine, but it does mean that it is often wise not to bring up matters, including even forgiveness, to those who would tend to despise that. However, we still are to show mercy and forgive.

Remember that God has a plan. And do not think that people are “getting away with” poor behavior. Notice something that the Apostle Paul was inspired to write:

7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.  (Galatians 6:7-10)

Doing good to all, including the household of faith, includes forgiving those you feel have offended you.

Consider also that all will be judged:

17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?

18 Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved,
Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”

19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.  (1 Peter 4:17-19)

All will be judged.

Don’t be puffed up:

4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

8 Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

Show love and forgive.

Consider also that you have almost certainly offended people you have not apologized to. Jesus said:

14 “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. (Matthew 6:14-15)

To be a true Christian, we need to be forgiven as well as forgive.

32 And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.  (Ephesians 4:32)

Our God is a merciful God.

Christians are to be merciful people.

It is because our God is a merciful God that He has a plan to make eternity better for all of us, as well as those who offended us.

And in the future, all who will accept God’s ways will make our eternity better.

Do your part now by forgiving and being merciful.

That said, related to YOUR sin and forgiveness, the Continuing Church of God put together the following video on our Bible News Prophecy YouTube channel discussing various views and scriptures about that:

14:22

Does God Want to Forgive You?

There are many of us that think our own personal sins are so grievous that God wouldn’t even want to forgive us. Some of us may even think our sins are so evil that God couldn’t possibly forgive us, even if He wanted to. Dr. Thiel points out that those thoughts are just what Satan wants us to think. But is that what God thinks? No matter how grievous and hideous we think our sins are, is God capable of forgiving us? Does God want to forgive us? The answer, directly from the Bible, will bring relief to your soul. But is there anything required from us in order to receive God’s forgiveness? If so, we need to know what that requirement is! Still, even if our sins are forgivable, is there a sin that is so terrible that it really is unforgivable? If so, what is it? How can we avoid it? Is the possibility of committing a sin that is so horrible that God will refuse to forgive us? The answers to these questions are literally a matter of eternal life and eternal death. Let Dr. Thiel shine the light of Bible prophecy directly on these answers from the verses of the Bible that will teach us what God requires of us and show us His love toward all His creation.

Here is a link to our video: Does God Want to Forgive You?

Since God wants all saved (1 Timothy 2:4) and would not want humans to commit the unpardonable sin, this explains why only few are called and chosen in this age (Matthew 20:16) while nearly all others will be forgiven in the age to come (Matthew 12:32).

Some items of possibly related interest may include:

The MYSTERY of GOD’s PLAN: Why Did God Create Anything? Why Did God Make You? This free online book helps answers some of the biggest questions that human have, including the biblical meaning of life. Here is a link to three related sermons: Mysteries of God’s Plan, Mysteries of Truth, Sin, Rest, Suffering, and God’s Plan, Mystery of Race, and The Mystery of YOU. Here is a link to two videos in Spanish: El Misterio del Plan de Dios and El Misterio de Satanás, el Misterio de la Verdad, el Misterio del Reposo.
Mercy: Love Your Enemies Jesus said to love your enemies. Can you do that? This article goes more into that as well as mercy.
Universal OFFER of Salvation, Apokatastasis: Can God save the lost in an age to come? Hundreds of scriptures reveal God’s plan of salvation Will all get a fair chance at salvation? This free book is packed with scriptures showing that God does intend to offer salvation to all who ever lived–the elect in this age, and the rest in the age to come. Here is a link to a related sermon series: Universal Offer of Salvation 1: Apocatastasis, Universal Offer of Salvation 2: Jesus Desires All to be Saved, Mysteries of the Great White Throne Judgment (Universal Offer of Salvation part 3), Is God Fair, Will God Pardon the Ignorant?, Can God Save Your Relatives?, Babies, Limbo, Purgatory and God’s Plan, and ‘By the Mouth of All His Holy Prophets’.

‘The Rapture of One in the Field’ etching

COGwriter

Are Protestants who believe in a pre-tribulation rapture wrong? They are according to another Protestant, Joel Richardson. Notice the following from him:

Is everything you know about Second Coming wrong?

Filmmaker, evangelist and renowned bible prophecy teacher Joel Richardson says it is a time of change for the church, especially when it comes to teachings about the End Times and the rapture. The author of the New York Times bestseller “The Islamic Antichrist” recently appeared with Joe Schimmel on Rick Wiles’s TruNews radio program to discuss the what he believes is the false doctrine of a pre-tribulation rapture.

Wiles himself supports the pre-tribulation position, stating, “I personally do not believe that by the year 2020, any credible person will be teaching the secret pre-trib rapture doctrine. I think the events that are coming in the next five years will utterly destroy the doctrine.”

The pre-tribulation school of thought has been an important force in American Christianity for decades, with proponents such as Hal Lindsey, Tim LaHaye and Thomas Ice. This school holds believers will be raptured before the great tribulation during the End Times, thus avoiding it. In contrast, Richardson believes the rapture will not occur until during the tribulation period. Thus, believing Christians will not be spared the persecution and calamities of the End Times. http://www.wnd.com/2015/08/is-everything-you-know-about-second-coming-wrong/#RkMvkBqFXqsI4wzt.99