Download PDF

Dear brethren and friends,

It is only a matter of a few weeks since we were keeping the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day, as instructed by God. Throughout the world, faithful believers congregated to celebrate the Feasts of the Lord (Leviticus 23:2, 34-43). The master plan of God as revealed through His Holy Days is of the utmost importance to those few who have been called at this time. They help us to clearly see the meticulous planning of our great God. We must never underestimate the marvelous calling that those who have been placed into God’s Church at this time have been given. We should pray fervently, and continuously, that we never take for granted the wonderful truth, hidden from the world, but revealed to the called-out ones.

The Feast of Tabernacles pictures the time when Christ sets up the Kingdom of God on earth and rules and reigns as King of kings and Lord of lords for a thousand years. The Last Great Day pictures the time when all those who had not had their opportunity for salvation, will indeed be given their first opportunity. It is wonderful knowledge that is just not understood by the world. It is also knowledge that was once understood by some who have forsaken the truth and gone back into the world.

Having celebrated the autumn Feast Days a few weeks ago, “Christmas” now looms just over the horizon. The contrast couldn’t be more marked. The world will be celebrating the supposed birth of Christ on December 25th when any honest student of the Bible should be able to come to the understanding that Christ was NOT born in December, but in the early autumn. The exact day of Christ’s birth has been hidden from mankind–if God had wanted us to know His Son’s date of birth, and that we should celebrate it, He would obviously have given us that information. But He hasn’t. We can only know the approximate time of the year when Christ was born (Please see the Question and Answer in Update 162 on September 24th 2004, which is posted on the Web. If you have no access to the Web, please ask for a hard copy).

What does celebrating a birthday, on the wrong day, have to do with true Christianity? Well, in truth, nothing whatsoever! This world’s “Christianity” has devised its own days, just as the true Sabbath (the time from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset) has been changed to Sunday, but without any Biblical authority whatsoever to make such a change. God commands us to keep the Sabbath holy–not Sunday (Exodus 20:8-11). Christ said that He was Lord of the Sabbath–not Sunday (Mark 2:27-28). And God’s clearly revealed annual Holy Days are substituted by uncoordinated days that have their roots in paganism–a haphazard collection of traditional man-made days–with no recognition whatever of God’s plan for mankind. (Please read or re-read our free booklet, “God’s Commanded Holy Days.”)

The “Christmas season” is a time of the year that true Christians don’t greatly care for. They are bombarded with advertising about the Christmas period, and their children (or grandchildren) are subject to the usual functions at school from which they have to be removed–it is a time of the year like no other. And it is all based on numerous lies. The Bible talks about meat in due season (Matthew 24:45). While we can apply this to keeping God’s Holy Days, the same principle of looking at why we should avoid the rampant paganism that is so obvious at this time of year, fits into the same category.

There are a number of issues connected with this season. There is much lying, particularly to younger children (including the deceitful concept that Santa Claus or the little Christ Child bring presents, etc., etc.). Rampant hypocrisy and a spirit of compromise are prevalent–so much so that we do have to be very careful that the season itself doesn’t cause us to compromise our Christian calling in any way.

In the past, too often, Church members (many of those subsequently left the Church) have compromised because of family, business or other pressures. Of course, it can be difficult if a member has these pressures–BUT we need to ask ourselves what is most important. Is it obedience to God and His way, without compromise– or giving in to “keep the peace” within the family or with relatives, because of pressure? It goes without saying that we have to use a great deal of wisdom in this area, and seeking the appropriate counsel may be very necessary. But based on observations over the years, we have seen too many cases of compromise by those who really should have known better. We all have to look at this matter carefully. We can all be put into a difficult position, but 2 — how do we react? We should try to ask ourselves at all times, “What would Jesus Christ do?” The answer to this question is so very important for good decision-making. And conscientiously following through with the obvious answers is vital. To the world, compromise is just the way to go- -at Christmas time, or at any other time. So many probably do it without thinking or considering their conduct, but that is not the way true Christians should ever approach things. Compromise with Christmas festivities, celebrations and all the other inappropriate things that are indulged in at this time of the year must simply be not an option for us.

The spirit of this time of the year can also be a danger. It is a time of excess. Many children seem to expect and get everything they want, which cannot be good for them. As they grow up in such an environment, many come to expect to GET everything, which is not the way it should be. Adults also indulge themselves in many ways. The Christmas season is an excuse for bawdy, riotous office parties–with an excess of food, drink and wanton behavior. Advertisers tell us that there are only so many shopping days to Christmas and encourage as much spending as possible. The commercialized and advertised incentives to buy Christmas presents already start in November, at the latest. It’s a “prosperous” time for big commercial companies and store owners, but that is not true for the consumers. Both the UK and USA have trillions of pounds or dollars of personal debt, but the end of the year sees a frenzy of spending–in many cases, consumers spend money which they don’t have, but which they borrow to satisfy the expectations and greed of their family members and friends. Some shops don’t seem to be able to take the money quick enough. And, when the Work of God simply doesn’t have enough income to engage in all the really IMPORTANT activities it would dearly love to do, money is spent at a massive rate during a time of the year that has its roots in paganism–while most people today never even give a thought to the supposed religious side of the event.

Do we get into the “Christmas” spirit? Do we get involved with excess, just like the rest of society? If we have done it in the past, we should review our behavior. We may–albeit unintentionally–be imbibing the spirit of Christmas, without realizing it. On the other hand, if we don’t become part of the frenzy and celebrations at this time of the year, we will stand out in today’s society. That is the price we have to pay for obedience to God and His way. 1 Peter 4:3-5 are telling verses: “For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you. They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.”

Society thought it strange that true Christians didn’t get involved in their ways, some 2,000 years ago. Today is no different. They think we are odd and that we deprive our children or grandchildren of the family fun of Christmas, by not being a part of the way that they think is normal. Notwithstanding that faulty reasoning, we must not imbibe the “Christmas” spirit! We always need to be focused on the right way to live.

Paul tells us in Romans 12:1-2: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Conformity with the world at any time is not acceptable to the great God. There surely is no greater time when this can happen to us, if we’re not careful, than at this time of the year. We are to be a walking, talking commercial for God’s way of life and, by avoiding Christmas and its spin-offs, we can be just that! Please read or re-read our free booklet on the subject, titled: “Don’t Keep Christmas!”

The festivals of God are wonderful days full of meaning and importance. Rejecting the ways of this world is that which is expected of us if we are to be true to our calling. We have to be very careful to make sure that we live up to the expectation that God has of us. To help us, God gave us His wonderful Feast days to look forward to, and to meditate about what they picture. Keeping our eyes on the goal of the Kingdom of God and all that it will entail, will help us to avoid and resist the “Christmas” spirit which is so heavily embraced by the world at this time of year (compare Ephesians 2:1-3).

With brotherly love,

Brian Gale

Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends,

We have marked another milestone in our calling, having completed our observance of God’s commanded seasonal Holy Days for this year!

Year by year, the Church of God rehearses the dramatic events of Godís plan for the establishment of His Kingdom with mankind. The significance of what we do is little understood by the world in which we live. Neither do the societies of this age comprehend the nearness of these yet prophesied developments.

Paul addresses this contrast in his letter to the church of the Thessalonians: “But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape” 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3).

By virtue of our calling and our continued obedience to God, we have an understanding of the future. Paul further states: “But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. You are all sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober [self-controlled]” (1 Thessalonians 5:4-6).

Just what is it that we are to watch? What does this admonition to the church really mean for us?

In Paul’s comments, it is apparent that “others” were in what is tantamount to a kind of sleep, that is, they were unaware of where the course of this world would lead. The clear record of that generation of Godís church is that many who were awakened to understand the plan of God chose, rather, to go back to sleep.

Those who did not sleep were the ones who continued to do the work of the Church of God. That is what we must be doing, today!

At the Feast of Tabernacles, we asked those attending to complete a questionnaire to assess participation in certain phases of the work we are doing. We wanted to know if the members read the Updates, letters and booklets; viewed the StandingWatch programs; and, we also asked for suggestions.

We know that many do all of this and much more! It is exactly this kind of commitment that assures that each one of us does not sleep but continues to watch. It takes real effort to stay involved. Paul wrote Timothy: “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands” (2 Timothy 1:6).

In times past, the remnants of Judah who returned to Jerusalem were called upon to rebuild the Temple of God. The work of that time did not measure up to the former magnificence of the Temple built by Solomon (Compare Haggai 2:3 and Ezra 3:12-13). In this regard, God recorded this challenge: “For who has despised the day of small things?” (Zechariah 4:10).

We in the church find ourselves in a very similar circumstance when it comes to fulfilling the tasks given to us. Likewise, we have this assurance from Godóthe way we can complete our part in the work of God: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, Says the LORD of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6).

In the time ahead and small though we are, we must zealously continue to reach out to the people of this world with the truth of God. As among those who have been assigned to watch and to warn, we are to draw from the power of God and stir up the gift given to us!

This past Feast of Tabernacles was remarkable for the spirit of unity and friendship that was shown among all. Jesus said: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). Knowing that ìGod is love,î it follows that when we stir up the gift of His Holy Spirit, love will be the fruit!

That love must fuel the work we have been given! This is how Jesus explained the work that both He and the Father had committed themselves to complete: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

Even though the seasonal “feasts of the LORD” have ended for this year, we still have the weekly holy convocation, the Sabbath! We still are able to assemble together to honor God, to learn more of His ways and to be a light in this world of darkness.

Keep your hearts in the work of God, the work that Jesus Christ is conducting through those who remain faithful to Him! Stay ready for the future God has revealed to His church. Let us never sleep as others do, but let us stand our watch as Christians to the very end!

In Christís Service,

David J. Harris

Download PDF

Dear Brethren, Co-Workers and Friends:

When you receive this letter, the Fall Holy Day season will have almost arrived. On Tuesday, October 4, we will be keeping the Feast of Trumpets, followed by the Day of Atonement on Thursday, October 13. Beginning with the evening of Monday, October 17, we will be joyfully celebrating for eight days the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day. We look forward to this unique opportunity to spend this time with brethren of like minds and goals, while taking a “leave of absence” from the hustle and bustle of this hectic and dangerous world. As we are mentally, spiritually and even physically preparing for the annual Fall Festival season, we cannot help but realize the striking difference between the not-too-distant future of this world, as pictured by God’s Holy Days, and what the world is like today.

This country is still attempting to come to grips with, and to recover from the terrible disaster, which Hurricane Katrina brought upon New Orleans, the rest of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. The worldwide political and economic fall-out has been, at least, equally devastating. Commentators warn that the catastrophe might push America’s fragile economy into recession. The production of agricultural commodities, crude oil and gas supplies, has been seriously threatened. Hurricane Katrina has been classified as the most expensive hurricane to have ever hit the USA. Estimates prognosticate that the final accounting could approach more than the $300 billion spent in four years of fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq. The initial fear that as many as ten thousand people might have died in the storm has, thankfully, not materialized, although the death toll is expected to reach at least one thousand people.

The world has watched with shock and incredulity the American efforts to deal with the crisis. Especially the European press have repeatedly spoken of ìThe United States of Shame,î stating that the humiliated super power was incapable and incompetent of handling such a national catastrophe. One Italian paper, La Repubblica, compared America with Pompeii, claiming that it was “slowly dying.” Many suggested that the failure of the US emergency services to handle the onslaught of Hurricane Katrina was due to resources being diverted to the war on terror, with 7,000 National Guard soldiers from Louisiana and Mississippi being deployed in Iraq.

The national press has been equally outspoken. The New York Times voiced its opinion that the Iraq war and the most recent handling of the crisis in New Orleans shook the faith of the world, and of all Americans, in the ideals of this nation. It was also revealed that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) had warned as early as August of 2001 of the three most likely catastrophes to strike the United States. First on the list was a terrorist attack in New York. Second was a super-strength hurricane hitting New Orleans. Third was a major earthquake on the San Andreas Fault, possibly devastating San Francisco or Los Angeles. Subsequent developments have manifested that the USA was not ready for the first two catastrophes, and according to the Los Angeles Times, it is presently not ready for the third catastrophe, either.

The Bible reveals that the United States of America, Great Britain and Canada, as well as the entire world, will soon be facing natural and man-made disasters of such a scope and scale, as were NEVER BEFORE observed by man. There are REASONS for these future terrible catastrophes. [As I write this letter, Hurricane Rita, presently a Category 4 hurricane, is expected to strike the Texas coast on Saturday, September 24.] Our new booklet, The Fall and Rise of Britain and America, describes those reasons. We plan to distribute a hard copy to the attendees at our Feast sites this year, and we will mail it to others after the Feast. When you receive your copy, please study it carefully, preferably in conjunction with our booklet, “Europe in Prophecy.”

The Church of God has been proclaiming for decades what is soon going to happen! Do we really grasp HOW serious it will be? God has forewarned us in His Word that there will be earthquakes of a higher magnitude than EVER experienced by man (compare Revelation 16:18). Can we even imagine the REALITY of what IS surely going to happen, as revealed in Isaiah 13:13: “the earth will move out of her place”? Isaiah 24:18-20 adds: “And the foundations of the earth are shaken. The earth is violently broken. The earth is split open, The earth is shaken exceedingly. The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard, And shall totter like a hut.”

God warns us of ever-increasing hurricanes, tornadoes, tidal waves, volcanoes and wild fires (compare Luke 21:25; Isaiah 24:6; 28:17-18; 30:30). He warns us of terrorist attacks, national and international wars, hunger and disease epidemics (compare Matthew 24:6-8 and, especially, Isaiah 30:25). Do we really comprehend what God tells us in Isaiah 28:22: “For I have heard from the Lord GOD of hosts, A destruction determined even upon the whole earth”? Do we really let sink in the unspeakable horror of Christ’s warning, that NO HUMAN BEING would SURVIVE these future cataclysmic catastrophes (compare Matthew 24:21-22)óIF IT WERE NOT for Christ’s return to end man’s incapable and incompetent attempts to rule this planet? But Christ WILL come back! He will take the reigns of government and banish Satan, the present god, prince and ruler of this world. He will share His righteous and merciful administration with His BORN AGAIN children of God, with you and me.

THAT is what God’s annual Fall Holy Days picture. THAT is the little-understood hope of Christ’s gospel. THAT is what God’s Church must proclaim today (compare 1 Peter 2:9; Ephesians 3:8-10; Mark 13:10). Yes, times will get MUCH WORSE, but in the end, the future will be so much brighter and glorious than man could ever imagine. UTOPIA IS COMING.

Heaven on earth will become REALITY. Let us all truly rejoice in God’s unspeakable wisdom and plan for you and for me, as well as for all of mankind. God’s purpose has been determined before the foundation of this world, before time began, but it is to be manifested and proclaimed in these last days BY HIS CHURCH. God’s Holy Days help us to be mindful of His plan and purpose. The time is far spent, and Christ’s return is at hand (compare Romans 13:12). His reward is with Him, to give everyone according to his works (compare Revelation 22:12).

We wish all of you a spiritually and physically rewarding Holy Day season.

With the love of our King and Savior, Jesus Christ,

Norbert Link Evangelist

Download PDF

Dear Brethren in Christ,

We reviewed in a recent sermon the subject of commitment and the fact that while God expects the wholehearted commitment of each of us in living His Way, He is fully committed to be certain we have all the helps needed from Him to succeed in our calling according to His great purpose! We observed that such commitment requires dedication from those He has called!

We at headquarters were most pleased with the positive attitudes observed and the fervent responses of many of you in answer to the plea for financial support of the work God is doing through CEG as we continue through the tough months of summer. No doubt God observed these favorable attitudes of His loyal disciples as well. Thank you for your continued prayers and support for God’s end-time Work!

Paul noted the right attitude of the Corinthians in 2 Corinthians, chapters 8 and 9. Speaking of their unselfish approach, Paul writes of the churches in Macedonia, “that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality” (2 Corinthians 8:2). The giving attitude of these disciples was commended the more due to their dedication and their fellowship, even in the midst of poverty. Verse 5 reveals they did these things having given themselves to the Lord and then to the Church according to God’s will.

What does one’s willing generosity reveal to our God? Paul illustrates in verses 7-15 of chapter 8 the answer to this question. First, that such a one abounds in the attributes of God (verse 7). Second, this approach proves the sincerity of their love (verse 8). Third, such a one imitates Christ (verse 9). And, finally, fourth, this approach reflects one’s desire to help supply the needs of others (verse 14). Paul goes further with this admonition in chapter 9 where he says, “He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver” (verses 6-7).

Speaking again of the generosity of faithful followers in this Way, Paul makes an interesting observation in Philippians 4:15-20 where in he states; “Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account” (verse 17). Paul continues; “And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (verse 19). Yes, God indeed takes note of our generosity!

We have so much to be thankful for, dear brethren, as time continues to draw toward the prophesied world events which will soon astound the nations. This world must face serious calamities in the near future, but in the final analysis, the truth stands – joy and harmony, security and peace, untold abundance and wealth and all that is perfect relative to God’s Way will be brought forth as Christ establishes the Kingdom of God on the earth.

These coming events – those which picture world-wide catastrophe and those which reflect the establishment of God’s eternal joy on the earth through His great Kingdom ñ are all pictured in the upcoming fall festivals of God. In observing these festivals, we show respect toward God’s plan and His command that we live out these future events through the keeping of His festivals which picture all God will do as He brings about the establishment of the Family of God. The 23rd chapter of the book of Leviticus and the 28th and 29th chapters of the book of Numbers speak of Godí’ command relative to His holy days.

Again, we do have much to be thankful for as time marches forward toward these world-changing events. God has given us His truth, His faith, and His Spirit, whereby we must learn to live our lives as Christ lived in the flesh. This upcoming fall festival season allows for us special time to illustrate to God our sincere thanks for the calling we have received.

Psalm 100 gives an approach for us to seriously consider relative to the attitudes we should have as we prepare for and attend the fall festivals. We must never be half-hearted in our approach to God, His commands and His ways, of which these festivals are a substantial part.

The inspired words of God in this 100th Psalm reveal some interesting thoughts for you and me. We see that when we come before God on His holy Sabbath and during His holy festivals, we are to shout with joy and sing praises to Him. We worship Him in this way because He is our God! He created us and now has called us to live according to His purpose and His Way. This approach is not the approach of the world!

We are to come before Him with thanksgiving and with praise. We are thankful to Him and praise Him because He is good, His mercy is everlasting and His truth endures forever!

In Psalm 101, David, in speaking to God, says that he will sing unto Him of His mercy and judgment and that he will dedicate himself to living according to God’s perfect Way. David is clear in this Psalm that he will avoid those who walk contrary to God’s Way, noting specifically “those who fall away” (Psalm 101:3).

God has called us to a way of life, brethren. He has called us to live our lives as Jesus Christ lived, to walk as Christ walked. David was a man of God. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were men of God. Sarah and Rebecca were women of God. Many others are named in the Scriptures. He has now called you and me to become men and women of God, to be obedient to all His ways, and to obey the commands He has established for our good.

In Psalm 103, David proclaims many of the benefits we receive from God as He does bless those brethren who are faithful to His Way. In pointing to many of these benefits, David makes note of the fact that God forgives all our iniquities, heals all our diseases, redeems our lives from destruction, crowns us with loving kindness and tender mercies and satisfies our mouths with good things (verses 2-5). He is “merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy” (verse 8).

We should be meditating on these things, keeping them in our minds as we approach this festival season; and we must continue to draw near to our God, growing in His truth, His faith and His Spirit so that we might be able to obey our God in doing the things He requires of us!

In Christian love,

J. Edwin Pope

Download PDF

 

Dear Brethren and Friends,

In the middle of the year 2005, this world is mired in seemingly hopeless turmoil! We have just witnessed another unspeakable terror atrocity, this time, in the city of London, England. Innocent people were literally blown apart, while others were maimed to become cripples for the rest of their lives! Add to that the incomprehensible suffering of humans all over the earth who find themselves living desperate lives in the most bleak of circumstances.

Not a happy picture, not at all.

But there is real hope for the future of this world, and we who have answered God’s calling and have remained faithful know that a new age of global peace will be established. World events when laid alongside Biblical prophecies show that this time is near, even at the door! We report these significant occurrences each week in the Church’s weekly Update. We publish comprehensive booklets and record in-depth sermons, both explaining and warning about the times in which we live. We are bringing the good news that God will soon send Jesus Christ back to this earth to end violence, suffering and war and to establish unending peace! Our website at www.eternalgod.org along with the video presentation at www.standingwatch.org can now be reached by anyone with computer access anywhere in the world! We know these things with certainty! But what more can we now do? What responsibility do we bear both individually and as a part of the Church of God, described in the Bible as the very body of Jesus Christ: “Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually” (1 Corinthians 12:27)?

The inescapable answer for us is that we must, first of all, continue to remain faithful. Jesus puts it this way: “But he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13). He adds this instruction in His teaching: “Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing” (verse 46). As Christ so plainly requires of each and every member of God’s Church, are we doing this in a personal and in a collective way? Are we faithful in our generation? Sadly, over the last fifteen or twenty years, more have left than have remained faithful! Even among those who have endured great trials over the last several decades, some still are stumbling in their faith, and some no longer are willing to pay the price required to endure to the end!

However, our calling is much greater than our own personal rewards. We also bear a responsibility to our brethren and to the world in which we now live. Here is how Jesus instructed those entrusted to be a part of the Church, and it applies now, as well: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). That love is the same love that originates and emanates from God through His Holy Spirit. Consider how complete and committed God’s love is: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

The world not only does not comprehend this statement and promise from God, but their minds are simply closed to its reality at this time. You see, we face the joyous task of bringing this good news, the ìGospel of the Kingdom of God, to a world now entrenched in opposition to God’s ultimate purpose: “But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them” (2 Corinthians 4: 3-4). The “god of this age” is Satan, who is an incorrigibly corrupt spirit being seeking to destroy mankind. Here is how he now presents his rule: “For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). We understand that Satan, along with his demonic hordes, will rule until the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of God’s Kingdom on this earth (Compare Revelation 20). Just as Satan continually tried to tempt and destroy Jesus Christ, so he now seeks to destroy, in particular, the people of God: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Then note our admonition in verse 9: “Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.”

Satan pretty much has his way with this world, but the faithful followers of Christ are an irritation and an obstacle for him. Our job, our responsibility, is to be “steadfast in the faith” that is, we are to endure. To be able to do this, we must follow the pattern established for us. Even in the first generation of God’s Church, some did not endure, and we find this warning: “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering. For He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:23-25). Paul made a statement almost two-thousand years ago that is so absolutely timely and applicable right NOW: “…it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed” (Romans 13:11).

Again, the personal question arises, are we reaching our point of compromise in our calling? Is Satan “devouring” us? Is it in zeal, that is, are we faithfully meeting with God’s people and contributing to the soundness of Christ’s body and the vibrant work He is accomplishing, right now? Are we already planning for the Holy Days this fall, or will that be another last-minute after-thought? Do we harbor hurt feelings carefully nourishing wrong attitudes, rather than following a path of repentance, forgiveness and reconciliation?

Brethren of Christ, when we become side-tracked with personal issues that actually amount to walking contrary to our calling, we not only damage our own growth and future, but the effectiveness of the work of God, the ongoing work given by Him through Jesus Christ. Remember, Jesus Christ lives, and He is the living, administrative Head of the Church of God! Each of us shares a part in the great calling we have been given. We are to zealously proclaim the gospel of the kingdom as a witness to the entire world (Compare Matthew 24:14). However, this world will not accept us or the message we bring. Matthew 24, verse 9, states that we will actually be hated by all nations, because we proclaim the same truth delivered by Jesus. Nevertheless, we are to, “Cry aloud, spare not; Lift up your voice like a trumpet; Tell My people their transgression, And the house of Jacob their sins” (Isaiah 58:1). The people of God are to be watchmen, to proclaim God’s message as a witness in this age: “Also, I set watchmen over you, saying, ‘Listen to the sound of the trumpet!'” (Jeremiah 6:17). Jesus warned His disciples, especially those alive at the time of His return, to watch and to be ready! (Compare Matthew 24:42, 44; 25:13). Know and believe that God’s Church proclaims this truth from God! Also, understand that this message from God is destined to grow mightily in the coming months and years,a message that indeed stands in profound opposition to the nations who are now blinded through deception and who follow Satan’s rule.

Our job does not end in proclaiming this warning. We have been called to rule the nations under Jesus Christ. Read the messages to the Churches as found in chapters 2 and 3 of Revelation. Also, Peter reveals this about the called, chosen and faithful of God: “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9).

God is still calling people out of this world into ìHis marvelous light.î He uses the work of His Church and the dedication of His people to help accomplish this. People are being converted. Their lives have immeasurably changed, the kind of change that all of mankind must eventually undergo in order to bring about the harmonious peace that characterizes God’s government. Jesus says of the work that is before us: ..”The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest” (Luke 10:2). This Scripture does not say anything at all about the harvest being over! Rather, Jesus identifies an issue that is as true now as it was then, there needed to be more people involved in the work! We find this additional explanation in John 4:35: “Do you not say, ‘There are still four months and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest.” Some think that the work of the Church in going to the world as a witness is over! That dangerous way of thinking does not find support in the words of Jesus Christ! Also, consider the very next verse in John 4: “And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life” (verse 36). Who among us wants to stop receiving these kinds of wages or gathering this kind of fruit?

Brethren, continue to pray for those things we are told to pray for more laborers for the harvest. Pray for open doors to powerfully teach God’s way and to proclaim His message of hope. Pray that God will use all of us as His ambassadors of the Christian way, asking for the help we need to become lights in a world of darkness. We have a message of hope for a world that knows none. Troubles are upon us, and greater trials are ahead for this age. Yet, the sure and certain promise of God stands, it is a message for each of us; it is a message for all of mankind:

“And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away'” (Revelation 21:3-4).

In Christ’s Service,

David J. Harris

Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends,

What a great opportunity we have received from God to be involved today in the most important task on earth ñ that of preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of God in all the world as a witness, and of personally overcoming and growing to become ready for the establishment of that Kingdom here on earth, when Jesus Christ returns in a few years from now.

NOTHING must be more important in our lives. Even though the task may sometimes seem overwhelming, we must always remember that we are involved in GODíS Work ñ and GOD will give us the strength and power to do what He expects of us.

God offers us the priceless GIFT of His Holy Spirit to successfully complete our mission ñ and to complete IN US what He has started (Philippians 1:6).

A few weeks ago we kept the Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread. We will be keeping Pentecost in a few days time. This is a most important Feast day for its meaning and application by those whom God has called at this time.

Having examined ourselves, kept the Passover and put sin (leaven) out of our lives, not only for seven days but as an ongoing process, Pentecost moves on to the next stage of God’s Master Plan – that of the giving of the Holy Spirit. That original Pentecost nearly 2,000 years ago, when the New Testament Church was founded (Acts 2), must have been truly awesome. Imagine hearing the apostles speaking about the wonderful works of God in many languages (Acts 2:4-13); Peter instructing the crowds to repent, be baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38); and three thousand people responding and being baptized!

Down through the ages, God has called and placed into His Church many people right down to this present time. We have the unique opportunity of understanding God’s plan for mankind through the power of His Holy Spirit. But how well are we using God’s priceless gift?

The fruit of the Spirit is clearly listed in Galatians 5:22-23, where a total of nine characteristics of that fruit are shown. In the three previous verses (Galatians 5:19-21), there are seventeen works of the flesh listed, almost twice as many more negatives than positives. This shows that there is a lot we need to overcome – but it also shows that with the help of God’s Spirit in us, we CAN overcome the works of the flesh and REPLACE them with God’s very divine nature. In verse 22, the first characteristic of the Holy Spirit is that of love, which is an absolute necessity to have, if we are to follow the instructions of Christ. But what about the rest of them? Peace is an interesting subject and the one that I want to concentrate on in this letter.

We certainly don’t expect peace in the world. The Bible tells us that people will be saying, “Peace, peace. When there is no peace” (Jeremiah 6:14). But what about peace in the Church, the spiritual organism that includes all those who have God’s Holy Spirit? Do we love peace?

Jesus said,”Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9). Can we include ourselves in that group of “peacemakers”? Peace, amongst other things, is the ability and desire to look for ways to cooperate and be on good terms with others, not accentuating differences. Fault finding, nitpicking, finger-pointing and even “majoring in the minors” are not the ingredients that promote peace. We may know Church members who may have different backgrounds, different levels of understanding and different personalities that may not necessarily complement our own personality, making it perhaps rather difficult, at first, to become close friends. Nevertheless, we are obligated to be at peace with them and esteem them better or higher (more important) than ourselves (Philippians 2:3).

We are told to “seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14). That is an active pursuit ñ not a passive one. We are also instructed “to pursue peace with all people” (Hebrews 12:14). Part of our training is learning to get on with others who may not necessarily, at times, agree with us. We need to put out all of the effort necessary to achieve that goal of pursuing peace, even though there may be those who respond negatively, or not at all.

Unfortunately, over the years, there has been far too much of the attitude condemned by Paul, which he described this way: “I am of Paul… I am of Apollos” (1 Corinthians 3:4). This attitude reflects the very antithesis of a peaceful approach as it encourages partisanship and, in some cases, exclusivity. There has also been far too much offence being caused (and grudges held in some instances) over inconsequential or minor technical matters that can be all-encompassing and take on a life of their own, while the weightier matters of the law have been neglected or overlooked (compare Matthew 23:23). Such an approach does not, and cannot by its very nature, lead to peace – a characteristic of the fruit of the Holy Spirit that we must develop.

We must remember that “the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God” (1 Peter 4:17). We are being judged by how well we are doing in our Christian life. John, an apostle of Jesus Christ whom Christ originally named, along with his brother James, as “Sons of Thunder” (Mark 3:17), later became known as the apostle of love. This shows the electrifying effect that receiving and USING the Holy Spirit can have. John, through the power of the Holy Spirit living in him and inspiring him, promoted peace (2 John 3 and 3 John 14) which was a far cry from his previous worldly and aggressive approach.We should be easily entreated (James 3:17, Authorized Version) and at peace with one another, irrespective of corporate affiliation. God is not going to allow disagreeing and disagreeable people in His Kingdom where peace will be pre-eminent. If we say that we love God and hate our brother, we are liars (compare 1 John 4:20), and loving our brother requires that we live at peace with him.

We are exhorted to GROW in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). This shows clearly that we WILL be able to learn more as time goes by. The Holy Spirit is the instrument by which that can be accomplished. Learning more about pursuing peace with all our brethren, and succeeding in achieving that mission, must surely be so pleasing to God.

Following the Day of Pentecost, the next Holy Day in God’s calendar is the Feast of Trumpets. That day pictures a time when there will be an absence of peace on planet earth ñ so much so, that mankind would destroy themselves, if Christ would not intervene to end man’s destructive ways (compare Matthew 24:21-22, 27). In the wonderful world tomorrow that will follow, peace will be worldwide as will be everyone’s approach to others. We are told to pray always that we “may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:36). We will only achieve this ambition if we learn to become peacemakers in the run-up to that time.

We need to do everything that we can to maintain and preserve peace with other members in the Body of Christ. If we do, and if we exercise the precious gift of the Holy Spirit, then we can be confident that Christ, at His return, will say to us: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21, 23).

God has “blessed us with every special blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love” (Ephesians 1:3-4). He has EMPOWERED us to do His work of preaching His gospel, and to overcome in this life. He has GIVEN US His gift of the Holy Spirit so that we can KNOW that, in USING His gift, NOTHING will be impossible for us (compare Matthew 17:20). Let us deeply reflect on the tremendous value of God’s Holy Spirit, that is freely given to us, as we keep this year’s Feast of Pentecost.

With brotherly love

Brian Gale

Download PDF

Dear Members and Co-Workers:

Very heartfelt greetings from San Diego! I trust and pray that all of you are blessed in your physical and spiritual walk of life, and I ask God for His special intervention for those of you who are suffering because of persecution, trials and tribulation.

As I write this letter, I am reflecting on the work of the Church of the Eternal God (CEG) and its corporate affiliates in Canada and Great Britain, and the – at times – “long and winding road” we have been traveling together. By July, CEG will have been in existence for four years. Of course, the Global Church of God in England (Global) has been operating for 12 years, and the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship in Canada (CGCF), for 5 years. We have had our share of trials and persecution from the outside and even the inside ñ and we can expect that this will continue. How are we, as individual members, to act in the face of such problems?

This year constituted my thirtieth Passover in the Church of God. I know that some of you have been in the Church for much longer than that. But still, I believe that thirty years of observation and experience in the Church have given me some insight in the questions which I want to pose in this letter: Why do people leave the Church? Why have so many left over the years? And what can we ñ who have stayed loyally in God’s Church ñ learn from their conduct, so that we don’t make the same tragic mistake?

In my thirty years in the Church, I have spent more years as a member than an ordained minister, and I want to address these questions from both a ministerial and a membership viewpoint.

As I said, I have seen people come and go ñ and many left before the terrible and abominable changes were introduced in the Church in the early 1990’s – after Mr. Armstrong’s death in 1986.

But even later, people still left faithful Church of God (COG) organizations, such as CEG, CGCF or Global, for a variety of reasons. (I want to clarify that we are not saying that CEG, Global or CGCF are “the” Church. But we do believe that we are part of the spiritual body of Christ, and when supporters or even members leave CEG, Global or CGCF for wrong reasons, they leave the Church – as this would also be true for other COG organizations, which are part of the spiritual body of Christ. In such a case, it does not matter whether those who have left CEG, Global or CGCF join another group or not ñ they would still have turned their back on the spiritual organism of the Church of God.)

As Mr. Armstrong has told us so many many times, people leave because of wrong attitudes ñ often in rebellion to godly ordained government in His Church! Of course, they will never admit that. They will have all kinds of explanations as to why they had to leave. However, there appears to be only two legitimate reasons for leaving a COG organization. One is doctrine (and this must be a substantial deviation from the truth, affecting one’s understanding of God and of man’s potential, as well as one’s way of life – and not some disagreement over a technical, non-salvational, theoretical point, which has absolutely no consequence for our relationship with God or our daily walk in Christ). The other legitimate reason for leaving is real (not just imagined) serious wrong active or passive conduct of the leadership of the organization, constituting gross violation of the Christian walk which we are all instructed to live by.

In most cases, these were not the reasons why many people left the Church over the years prior to Mr. Armstrong’s death, and these are not the reasons today, why people may leave a faithful COG organization. I vividly recall the attitudes of people, who left the Church, when I was still in Germany. One member rejoiced when a minister allegedly did or said something wrong. The member, who later left, stated about the minister: “Now we’ve got him.” Another member left in anger because he was not successful in a task assigned to him, blaming God and the world for his misfortune. Others left, claiming that the minister was too harsh; that they disagreed with the direction of the Work under Mr. Armstrong; or that they had a different understanding about an insignificant technical point. But the real reason always seemed to have been a wrong attitude.

They might have become upset about the fact that the ministry did not share their special understanding or their unique knowledge of a non-salvational issue; or because they did not receive the kind of recognition that they thought they deserved; or because they were just growing weary of living God’s way of life – including the requirements to tithe and give offerings, and to keep the Sabbath and the Holy Days (compare Malachi 1:13; Isaiah 43:22).

I have observed over the years that very often, the attitude of members who left became bitter and finally hostile toward Mr. Armstrong, the ministry, and the membership. Former friends became their enemies. Most of the time, they tried to contact others to explain their conduct, and to try to convince them of the righteousness of their cause.

Sometimes, members felt compelled in their minds to contact those who had left, in order to bring them back. This was virtually never successful – unless the contact was made with the express permission or request of the ministry.

At one time, a friend in the Church in Germany told me that he was going to discuss the reason of the former member’s departure with the former member. I pleaded with him not to do that (knowing that the ministry had been so far unsuccessful in their dealings with the person who had become quite hostile), and to leave the matter to the ministry and to God. He thought he knew better. He did get involved, and it carried him, ultimately, right out of the Church as well. My friend should have realized that hostile attitudes are contagious. He should have known that they can be disguised and not easily detectable. He seemed to have forgotten that even Satan transforms himself into an angel of light, and so his ministers or servants can appear as ministers of righteousness (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). I explained to my friend, sadly to no avail, that God instructs us to avoid those who cause division among brethren. (Let me insert here that I sometimes wonder how God would have felt if someone would have told Moses that they wanted to become intermediaries or “peacemakers” between Moses and Korah, by finding out who was to be blamed for their problems.)

I learned from experience that we can’t be more righteous than God. If God says that we must avoid those who cause division, then this is what we ought to do – for our own protection (compare Romans 16:17; 1 Corinthians 5:9, 11, 13; 2 Timothy 2:16-21; 3:1-5; 1 Timothy 6:3-5). This does not mean that we cannot have any social contact with them – especially if family members are involved. But it does mean that we are to avoid discussions of spiritual matters and the alleged “cause” for their departure.

The Bible tells us that those who leave us were not really with us (1 John 2:19). This is so true. Over the years, I have seen that people left the Church (under Mr. Armstrong) because of attitude problems. But their wrong attitude was associated with other shortcomings: Members did not have the same doctrinal understanding on certain points that the Church had; they did not read the Church literature because they thought that they could not understand it or that they knew everything anyway; they did not “have the time” to read it, while spending their time on entertainment or reading dissident literature; or they felt that the literature was not “scholarly” enough. People accused Mr. Armstrong of teaching heresy, because he did not properly understand Greek or Hebrew. We are occasionally receiving similar accusations. Not much has changed, has it?

Others have read the Church’s literature (again, í’m speaking about the time when Mr. Armstrong was still alive) – not to learn from it, but to find fault ñ perhaps with the motivation of finding an “excuse” to leave. This, too, is still happening in God’s Church today. Dear brethren, we must understand that when we leave God’s Church, we are cutting ourselves off from Christ, and we will wither and fade away (John 15:1-2, 6). Christ established the Church to help the members to become perfect (Ephesians 4:11-16). Paul even said that at times, people must be given over to Satan for a while, with the hope that they will come to repentance and return to the body of Christ (compare 1 Corinthians 5:5). We have seen incidences over the years when some who left the Church became directly influenced by Satan the devil. I am sure that they never thought that something like that could happen to them, when they left. But it did. Satan is very subtle ñ so much more so than we could ever imagine.

God has given us a great opportunity to help fulfill His commission to His Church. Those who leave the Church miss out on that opportunity ñ and if they don’t repent, they will even miss out on their eternal salvation. It is THAT serious!

I know that God is still sifting ñ and you know it, too. And I can say with Peter that those of you who have shown your loyalty to God and His Church (of which CEG, Global and CGCF are a part) have been becoming stronger in the process. Your faith has been tested, and it has been purified (compare 1 Peter 1:6-7, 22). And as Paul, so am I confident that God will bring to completion the good work, which He has begun in you (compare Philippians 1:6) But let us also PRAY for those who have been tossing this opportunity aside ñ that they will come to repentance before it is too late. So many have left the Church over the years, and only very few have returned. Where are the others today? In Germany, for example, we used to have 1,500 members at one time. If I were to count today’s membership in all known Sabbath-keeping COG groups, I would only reach a small fraction of that original number. Where are the rest? What are they doing today to fulfill God’s command to preach the gospel in all the world? They are doing nothing in that regard ñ and they thereby ignore and neglect the very reason why God called them today – ahead of the vast majority of mankind to be called in the future. And unless they repent of their refusal to respond to God’s purpose for their calling, God will label them as unprofitable servants.

Let me close by thanking all of you truly loyal and faithful members and supporters from the bottom of my heart for your dedication. We can only fulfill God’s commission if we are staying and working together – in mind, dedication, purpose and zeal.

Much needs to be accomplished. We have only just begun. And let us never forget that God’s Church moves forward on its knees.

In Christian love,

Norbert Link

Download PDF

Dear Brethren in Christ,

As we approach the upcoming Holy Day season, we are bombarded daily with catastrophic events which seem to be unending. We have observed one disaster after another, as it seems nature is on a rampage. There are continuous reports of events in the form of earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, as well as weather events ranging from tropical storms, tornadoes and hurricanes. And now we are observing serious threats from beneath the earth’s surface, with rumblings deep under the crust of the earth, threatening serious damage as volcanoes become more active. And on top of these events are serious problems in the form of drought and crop failure, massive starvation in parts of the world and disease epidemics.

Adding to these catastrophic events, the bombardments continue with conflict between individuals and nations. On the national and international levels we see terrorist threats, wars, and rumors of wars; nations unable to get along with one another. And added to these awesome problems are difficulties at home, beginning with anger in families and between friends. The streets are unsafe in many areas and we see added to that, road rage and even the lack of safety in our homes. We look to the time when all these calamities and wrong attitudes will cease!

Paul spoke of these times in his second letter to Timothy, wherein he stated in chapter 3, verse 1: ìÖin the latter days perilous times will come.î Certainly we are living in those times, today. Paul continues: ìFor men will be lovers of themselvesÖî Surely we are able to see the truth in that statement as we observe the actions of mankind in the world today. As Paul continues to write to Timothy, he outlines in these verses the characteristics which would be prevalent in the people of the world during these times: “lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Timothy 3:1- 5). He admonishes us not to be party to this approach to life!

By the time you receive this letter, it will be just days before Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread begin. No doubt, we are all contemplating the upcoming Holy Days and are beginning to prepare for this joyous season. We will be diligently de-leavening our homes and personal property such that we meet the requirements of God’s command relative to the physical aspects of these days. But what about our spiritual lives? Where do each of us stand in this regard?

In 2 Timothy 3:5, Paul states that people during these times will have a “form of godliness” in their lives, but they will be “denying its power.” Do you see clear evidence of this today? And could this attitude be affecting you in your relationship with God?

Paul continues in verse 7 of this chapter by saying that these people will be “always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” It seems today that many people even in the churches of God are not stable in the faith! They are continually jumping from one place to another. This is certainly different than it was back thirty, forty, fifty years ago when many were being called to God’s Truth. It did not seem possible in those days that we would ever see the things going on in the Church that exist today, though we were warned often that this would occur. Today we find God’s people scattered and many without hope! What must we do?

Brethren, we are thankful to our God that He has revealed to us that He will straighten this whole mess out in His time. Jesus Christ will come and restore the Government of God on this earth and peace and happiness will be established in that process. There is hope for the world and all who are in it. But in the meantime, we have been called to make the changes that are within our power, with the help of God’s Spirit in us.

Paul, as he continues to instruct Timothy, said in verse 10: “But you have carefully followed my doctrine (the doctrine Paul had received directly from Jesus Christ), manner of life, purpose, faith, long-suffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions Ö what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me.”

Of course, that is the key for us, brethren. If we remain faithful to God, no matter how difficult, how perilous times become, the Lord will deliver us out of them all. But we must remain strong in the faith and doctrine of our Lord, Jesus Christ! In the meantime, relative to the upcoming Passover season, we must be certain our spiritual lives are in proper order! We must be certain we are right, to the best of our ability, with our God and our brethren in Christ.

In 1 Corinthians 5:7 Paul admonishes us to “purge out the old leaven, that we may be a new lump.” In Colossians 3:2 Paul tells us to ìSet your minds on things above, not on things on this earth.î And in verse 9 of chapter 3, Paul advises us to “put off the old man.” Specifically and in detail we are told to put off the deeds of this way of life which the world is living and, in verse 10, he tells us to “put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him” (and us).

Yes, brethren, we are entering Passover season, which is a time of renewal when we must be most cognizant of our own faults, a time when we must have a right attitude of repentance toward God and our fellow man in these things, and it is a time when we are to renew our commitment to live our lives as Jesus lived His life in the flesh.

We are told in 1 Corinthians 11:27, in relation to the Passover: “whoever eats this bread and drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.î This we do not want to do, brethren. So, we are told in verse 28, ìBut let a man examine himself.” Yes, this is a time of self-examination, with meditation, fervent prayer and fasting. We are to examine ourselves to be certain we are of a right mind and attitude in relation to God and man, and “so let him eat of that bread and drink of that cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body” (Verse 29).

This is God’s Passover season. Let us prepare our homes and our property as outlined in God’s Word, and let us be certain we are right with our God and with our fellow man.

In Christian love;

J. Edwin Pope