Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends,

The world of today is becoming more and more filled with hopeless violence. Implacable enemies are arising, committing unspeakable atrocities! On the near horizon of this generation’s future, insurmountable difficulties loom! The societies of this age are selfishly focused on power, on money and on vainly serving the desires of the flesh, all built on the false promises of human governments who are always proclaiming, but never quite able to deliver, a time of peace (compare 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3).

We who have been called by God and who have continued to walk in His way of life, look forward to a much different future. We KNOW that God will soon establish His Kingdom on this earth. We KNOW that God will send Jesus Christ, the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6), to intervene in great power to actually bring peace to the entire planet, forcing a rebellious mankind to accept God’s peace on His terms. Under His rule, man will not “learn war anymore” (Isaiah 2:4).

As we enter the observance of these Fall Holy Days as commanded by God, we need to carefully consider the awesome GIFT that has been bestowed upon us. We understand God’s will, and we have the unparalleled and certain hope of a future of real peace, a peace that will transform this world!

In this context, let us also think about OUR PART in the Work of God: “For [consider] your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence” (1 Corinthians 1:26-29).

In the wonder of this revelation, we are, on the one hand, humbled; while, on the other hand, we are called upon to take seriously the great responsibility that accompanies our calling at this time!

We have a message to deliver to this world, the GOOD NEWS that the way of living that brings only misery and death will soon come to an end. But, as we understand, there is MORE to that GOOD NEWS! It includes the establishment of God’s rule here on earth, the beginning of a BETTER way of life. This is news from God! It is the very same announcement given by Jesus Christ and continually proclaimed by the Church of God throughout the generations.

Here is the direct statement by Jesus Christ concerning the gospel or good news that comes from God: “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end [of this present evil age] will come” (Matthew 24:14). We are doing our part in this awesome commission through the work of the Church of the Eternal God and our corporate affiliates in Canada and Great Britain. We are carrying on with this commission given to us in the Word of God. We all have our part as God has established us. Consider this statement in 1 Corinthians 12:18: “But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body JUST AS HE PLEASED.”

God has very specifically chosen each one of us to be called at this time! He has done so with purpose: First, it is a part of His plan to call all in His Church to continued repentance and to offer all of us the chance for eternal life (Compare 2 Peter 3:9); Second, He is giving us the opportunity to be in the first resurrection and to be part of the government Jesus Christ will bring to the earth (Note the messages to the Churches in Revelation 2 and 3); Third, He has called us to be ambassadors of this future Kingdom, NOW! (Compare 2 Corinthians 5:20).

As the Word of God does so often, we, too, want to encourage all to walk in ways that truly reflect the character of God. Jesus said that we are “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-14). In verse 16 of this same chapter, He says, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Brethren, we accomplish this by living a life patterned after that of Jesus Christ. Especially during these approaching Holy Days, we should be extra mindful of our role in the body of Christ, the Church of God. All of God,s Feast Days picture His great master plan, and they continue to give us increased insight, understanding and occasions for personal growth. You may want to look again at our publication, “God’s Commanded Holy Days,” which sets forth in detail the meaning of these annual Festivals. For instance, Paul pointed out: “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). He understood that the Feast Days (in this case, Passover) played a significant role in revealing the unfolding plan of God. Passover, reflecting on Christ’s death, is just the beginning, already pointing to Christ’s return and His rule over man. Passover is followed by the Days of Unleavened Bread, Pentecost, Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles and the Last Great Day, all these Days picture critical events in Gods plan for mankind, and for those whom He has called in this time and age. In faithfully obeying God’s command to observe His special Holy Days, we, as Christ’s ambassadors and special “newscasters,” are representing the promise of God to offer salvation to all of mankind.

What we do will certainly serve as a chance to let our light shine. When we gather together to be strengthened and to encourage one another, we will also be assembling as representatives of God’s Way of living.

In this joyous and special time of the Fall Festivals, we are to REJOICE: “And you shall rejoice in your feast, you and your son and your daughter, your male servant and your female servant and the Levite, the stranger and the fatherless and the widow, who are within your gates” (Deuteronomy 16:14).

Let us also direct our gratitude to God and to Jesus Christ in preparation for, and during God’s Fall Festivals! At one time, Jesus healed ten lepers; however, only one returned to give thanks and glory to God for his healing: “And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks. And he was a Samaritan” (Luke 17:15-16).

Brethren, as we keep the Fall Festivals, let us walk thankfully in the confidence of our calling. Let us rejoice in the hope that God has given us, and let us be very mindful of the fact that we are representatives of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

Let us all become rejuvenated and refreshed during the Fall Festival season, praying to God for, and expecting to receive from Him, His strength (compare Isaiah 40:31). We need God’s strength to continue, in ever-increasing boldness and power, to do our job of proclaiming the good news of God’s soon-coming Kingdom to this world, an hallucinating, self-deceived and dying world, which hopes for peace, while living a way of life, which only brings about war (Romans 3:10-18). God’s Kingdom, pictured by the Feast of Tabernacles, is the ONLY hope for mankind. Let us never forget to pray: “Thy Kingdom Come!” And let us, as ambassadors of Christ, continue, without fear of persecution or reprisal, to PROCLAIM to this war-stricken world the gospel of PEACE (Ephesians 6:15), as this is indeed “beautiful” in God’s sight (Isaiah 52:7). We wish all of you a spiritually rewarding and peaceful Fall Festival season.

In Christ’s Service,

J. Edwin Pope

Norbert Link

David J. Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends;

As we approach the end of the summer months (I say this with the temperature outside at 96 degrees and just fifty miles to the East of here is Palm Springs with a torrid 106 degrees), we are beginning to move into the period of time of the fall festivals: the Feast of Trumpets, Atonement, the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day.

We are anxiously looking forward, with anticipation, to our gathering together with the brethren, in one of two beautifully millennial settings where God’s name has been placed for us to observe the Feast this year: 1) The Sea Pines Golf resort in Los Osos, California, located on the banks of Morro Bay on the central coast of California or 2) Chatsworth House, this being the wonderful peak district home of the late Duke who died recently and still the home of the Duchess of Devonshire, located in Derbyshire, England.

We will assemble ourselves together as admonished in God’s Word in observance of the eight day festival which we all know as The Feast of Tabernacles; which, in fact, is inclusive of the two separate festivals; of the seven day “Feast of Tabernacles” and the separate festival of God which is called the “Last Great Day.”

The four fall festivals noted above portray great events prophesied in God’s Word to be coming soon to the earth and will culminate into the wonderful Kingdom of God, with Jesus Christ ruling on the earth for 1,000 years. But before all these events, which are prophesied to affect all the people of the earth, God reveals to us through the prophet, Daniel, that at the time of the end, knowledge will increase and people will be going to and fro over the earth.

But, we must ask the question, is this knowledge which will be increasing in the earth, something that is desirable? Is this increased knowledge something which will move the peoples of the earth closer to their Creator and to the Way of life He has chosen for us to be living? In fact, the Scriptures reveal to us that there is a knowledge which has been given to mankind which is to be desired! But is this desired knowledge, the knowledge that is being referred to as being increased at the time of the end?

The Scriptures also reveal to us that there is a knowledge in the world which leads to grief and sorrow (Ecclesiastes 1:18). God, in fact, in the beginning of man’s existence on the earth, introduced to the man and to the woman the fact that there were two approaches to life, represented by the two trees in the midst of the garden; and they must make a choice as to which way they would go (Genesis 2:9, 16-17). And so, we find in the book of Hosea, there would come a time during which knowledge is being increased in the land; at the same time, the prophet Hosea quotes the LORD as saying, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” (Hosea 4:6).

But what knowledge is Hosea referring to? Surely not the knowledge that is increasing in the land! In the first verse of Hosea 4 the LORD explains what knowledge He is referring to. He states, ìThere is no truth or mercy or knowledge of God in the land.î No truth of God’s Way! No understanding of God’s mercy and the fact that we should be showing mercy as He shows mercy! No knowledge of God, of His Law, of His Truth, or of His Way of life! What is the result of this lack? When there is no knowledge of God, He tells us (in Hosea 4:6) that the people are destroyed!

So, there is a body of knowledge which God refers to as true! This knowledge is revealed knowledge, which comes from God and which builds up the people who have received this revelation. But then, God also shows, there is a body of knowledge which is of this world and is destructive to mankind. It is true that included within this body of destructive knowledge are things which are good. But this body of knowledge also includes things which are evil. And these things are not easily discernable without the true knowledge of God. All of this becomes very clear to those whom God has called and who have had these truths revealed to them and who have God’s Spirit leading them in their lives.

Paul understood the value of this body of true knowledge and revealed that fact when he made the statement in Romans 7:7 (KJV) which said, ìÖI had not known sin, but by the law; for I had not known lust, except the law had said, “Thou shalt not covet.” Of course, we understand that this law Paul is referring to is one of the Ten Commandments, which existed from the beginning, but which was again revealed to the nation of Israel as God was leading them out of the land of Egypt, where they had been in captivity following the death of Joseph.

But much of the understanding of the Way of God has been lost down through the ages, and, today, we find ourselves in a world pretty much devoid of God and His Truth. We find ourselves living in that time prophesied by Daniel and others when knowledge would be increased. Yet this increased knowledge is not of God and His Way but is the knowledge of this world and its ways, which are a reflection of Satan’s ways, he being, at present, the god of this world. God proclaims this knowledge is that which is derived from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil and tells us we must come out of that way!

Paul tells us that mankind rejected the knowledge of God which had been given to them. The result was that God allowed their minds to go off into error, which is where the majority of mankind find themselves today (Romans 1:16-28). Even Israel, God’s chosen people, had a zeal for God, but that zeal was not according to the knowledge of God (Romans 10:1-2). Thus, Paul admonishes us, in the book of Colossians, that his desire for those God calls is that they be “filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and understanding”; and, that we “increase in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:9-10).

Paul continues in chapter 3 of the book of Colossians, admonishing us to ìSet your minds on things above, not on things on the earth (Colossians 3:2).î He continues to develop this concept in this chapter showing that we must be renewed in the knowledge of God, giving detailed instructions as to how we are to do this.

Interestingly, Paul, on numerous occasions used a key phrase in his letters to the Thessalonians, to Timothy and to the Hebrews whereby he admonished them at that time, and you and me today, to “hold fast” to that which is good, to the confidence, to the confession, to the pattern of sound words he had delivered to them. He realized the importance of the knowledge God had given to them in opening their minds to receive this knowledge. And he understood how it is so easy, if one is not diligent, to allow one’s’ self to be swayed from these truths.

And John, as he was diligent in recording the words of our Lord in the book of Revelation, noted to three of the last four of the seven churches recorded in Revelation 2 and 3, where Christ specifically admonishes them to continue to “hold fast” to the true knowledge God had revealed to them until His return to this earth to establish the Kingdom. To the church of the Laodiceans, He said only, “be zealous and repent.” Apparently, Christ saw they were letting these wonderful truths slip away!

Brethren, we have been called to live this Way of God. This festival season we are about to enter is given to us by our Heavenly Father to provide special time for us to be renewed in the knowledge of His Way, and to grow and increase in God’s knowledge (2 Peter 3:18). Let us all take full advantage of this blessing God has given us. Let us prepare our hearts and our minds to receive the Spiritual food God has for us and let’s prepare to go to this Feast of Tabernacles and rejoice in the sure knowledge of God and of His Way of life!

Continue to “hold fast,” dear brethren!

In Christian love,

J. Edwin Pope

PDF

Dear Brethren, Co-workers and Friends!

At the very beginning of this letter, my wife Johanna and I would like to thank all of you, from the very bottom of our hearts, for the generous outpouring of love extended by you to my family and me, in regard to the death of my father. My dad died on June 13, 2004, and I was able to attend the funeral in Germany on June 18. Although my dad lived a long life of 95 years, it is still very difficult to accept his death, especially for my mother who is suffering tremendously because of this loss. She is presently visiting with us at our place in Ramona, until the end of the month, and I know how much she would appreciate your prayers for strength in these difficult times.

While in Germany, I reflected on the awesome job, which God gave His Church, the preaching of the gospel of the kingdom of God in all the world as a witness or testimony, so that Jesus Christ can return to this earth. Do we realize how much this world needs to hear the good news or gospel message, the same message that Jesus Christ preached, when He was here on the earth?

The true gospel message gives us hope. It includes the understanding as to what happens to us when we die. The religions of this world do not provide an answer. They are ignorant about this all-important question, and their teachings are inconsistent and confusing. Although some Christian churches teach the resurrection from the dead, they believe that at the time of one’s death, the soul of the dead person continues to live. They are unable to answer why there should be, then, a resurrection. (Martin Luther posed this very same question and concluded that the “soul” does not go to heaven or hell, when man dies, but awaits a resurrection from the dead.) Loved ones mourn for their “departed ones” and some still talk to them, thinking, but not really knowing, that the dead might still hear them. Others are uncertain whether they will ever see them again. What tragedy and unnecessary grief, pain and sorrow.

At the same time, we see how the different “branches” of the Christian churches of this world, in spite of their inconsistent and contradictory teachings, are recognized as belonging together. Although there are many “Protestant” churches, they all feel somewhat united as Protestants, based on several “core” teachings. And although there are many orders and archdioceses within the Catholic Church, holding different teachings to an extent, they clearly understand themselves as belonging to the Catholic faith.

Non-Christian observers analyzing the two big Christian churches, the Catholic and the Protestant Church, immediately note common denominators even between the two, identifying those as similar religions. Some have pointed out that the main distinguishing factor between the Catholic and the Protestant Churches is their belief as to what occurs during the administration of the bread and the wine at the time of the communion or Last Supper. This, seemingly theoretical, question has been declared as more important than even the issue of the role and function of the Pope and church government, the Virgin Mary, purgatory, or other doctrinal issues. It is safe to say that in regard to most questions, both church groupings are united, whether it is in their belief of the Trinity; the immortal soul; heaven and hell; Sunday; Christmas or Easter.

When contemplating this fact, I had to wonder about the Sabbath-keeping churches of God. There was a time when many of us were united within one big organization, the Worldwide Church of God. However, there have always been those, even under Herbert W. Armstrong, the late leader of the Worldwide Church of God, who had separated themselves, many times in rebellion against Church government, and had formed their own little groups, but these were few, small and insignificant, by comparison.

After Mr. Armstrong died in January of 1986, the prophesied apostasy set in (compare 1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Peter 2:1-3), and we witnessed a scattering of God’s people in many countries around the world. This scattering and regrouping has resulted in a weakening of the ability to preach the gospel by one somewhat powerful and recognizable organization, but, at the same time, it might have added, in some way, to the preaching of the gospel.

We read in Matthew 26:31 that when Christ, the Shepherd, was stricken, the sheep of the flock were scattered. This was primarily fulfilled when Christ was arrested and the apostles fled, but there is also a secondary meaning implied in this passage. Every time when Satan strikes powerfully against the Church of God, the body of the Shepherd, Jesus Christ, scatterings of the flock oftentimes occur as a consequence. But God allows such scatterings to happen for a reason. When Saul persecuted the church in Jerusalem, “they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles” (Acts 8:1). But notice what happened next. We read in verse 4: “Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.” We also notice a similar occurrence in Acts 11:19-20. We find that today, too, some, who are scattered, preach the word of truth all over the world.

Many of God’s people are scattered today, belonging to different organizations, but as long as God’s Spirit dwells within them, they are a part of the body of Christ, which is a spiritual organism, consisting of all those in whom God’s Spirit dwells. Christ is not limited or restricted to just one corporate organization. At the same time, every member of the body of Christ does have the responsibility to decide what human organization to be affiliated with, based on right and proper Scriptural reasons. Everyone should be “fair-minded,” searching the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things, as taught by the ministry of a particular organization, are true (compare Acts 17:11). Members are to judge, discern, evaluate, based on Scripture, what is being preached (1 Corinthians 14:29). In order to do so correctly, members need to have God’s wisdom to discern properly (1 Corinthians 10:15). This requires that brethren dig deep (compare Luke 6:48) into the truth, it does make a difference to them whether and where the truth is preached fully, and when trials and obstacles occur, we all must be wise, not giving up these precious truths of God which have been received through the inspiration of God’s Spirit. We must hold fast to the pattern of sound words (compare 2 Timothy 1:13), rejecting and avoiding strange or useless teachings (Hebrews 13:9).

There is a reason why we are not all united at this time in one human organization. Some smaller organizations might be able to preach the gospel message in a more powerful way than they would be able to, if they were part of another organization (which might have procedures in ó 3 ó place that require a common denominator of teachings acceptable by all or the majority, or that bestow on just one person the right for a, more or less, autocratic determination as to what to preach).

At the same time, in spite of certain differences between corporate organizations and entities within the Church of God, we need to realize that members of those different organizations are part of the body of Christ, as long as God’s Spirit dwells within them. All of us are to faithfully hold to the truths revealed in Scripture through God’s Holy Spirit, so that Christ does not vomit us out of His mouth (Revelation 3:17). In addition, an outsider should be able to look at the fundamental teachings and clearly see a common uniting body of beliefs, just as he should be able to designate someone as a Catholic or a Protestant, or a Hindu, a Buddhist or a Muslim. He should be able to find within such organizations comprising the Sabbath-keeping Churches of God that they believe in the Sabbath and the Holy Days; the Family of God; the human potential; the return of Jesus Christ to restore the government of God here on this earth; the Millennium; the spirit in man; the non-existence of an immortal soul; life after death through the resurrections; the rejection of unclean meats and pagan festivals; etc.

Although there are reasons for the existence of different organizations within the body of Christ, all should be united in one goal of preaching the gospel message to this dying world, so that Christ can return to this earth soon to restore the Kingdom of God on this earth. The Church must be ready for this awesome event. The unifying beliefs of true Christians should be reflected in what they say and do in their lives. We must all be doers of the Word. Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 4:9: “But concerning brotherly love you have no need that I should write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another”, which, of course, is a reflection of God’s Commandments.

Christ said that all would know that we are His disciples if we have love for one another (John 13:35). And He was not just talking about love for brethren in our particular fellowship or organization. Christ warned that the love of many within the Church would grow cold (compare Matthew 24:12). Paul warned us not to devour each other (Galatians 5:15). He said that if we do, we are carnal (compare 1 Corinthians 3:1-3), more carnal, perhaps, than some of those who have not yet understood the truth, but who do show natural affection for others. There is never a reason for a Christian in one human fellowship or organization within the body of Christ to look down on, condemn or shun other Christians in different fellowships within Christ’s body. Christ told us that if someone is not against us, he is for us, on our side (Mark 9:40; Luke 9:50). On the other hand, we must use discretion to avoid being deceived by false teachings. But even then, we must not allow ourselves to assume a self-righteous approach when dealing with the people of God outside our own fellowship. We must let our light shine before all, and that includes even speaking to those who may now be cast in adversarial roles. However, that would not include, of course, listening to false teachings, including via literature or tape, or spiritually fellowshipping with those who have chosen to follow and promote wrong doctrines. Paul warned the church at Corinth: “that a little leaven leavens the whole lump”(1 Corinthians 5:6).

Although we might (have to) operate in different human organizations at this time, all true believers are still to be united by the bond of peace and love and respect for each other and by the Truth which God has revealed to us. How can we reject those and refuse to have any social contact with them, when God has accepted them (compare Romans 14:4)? If problems between Christians exist, they need to be resolved. Sometimes, it may appear easier to just ignore a problem, to avoid the other person, and to go our separate ways. But that would not be in accordance with the wisdom of God. And without the wisdom of God we will, in time, fall for and accept wrong teachings, concepts and practices.

As I said at the beginning of this letter, my family and I were greatly moved by the numerous e-mail messages, cards and phone calls from our relatives, friends and brethren, expressing to us their condolences for the death of my dad. When he was still alive, many had prayed for him, my mother and our family. This showed out-flowing love for the welfare and benefit of others, and this manifestation of love came from many members belonging to a number of different organizations within the body of Christ. This is how it should be. Love, true, genuine love, transcends man-made borders and limitations.

May God bless you all.

With Christian love,

Norbert Link

PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends:

I am writing this letter from Canada. Delia and I are looking forward to meeting with our brethren at the Feast of Tabernacles 2004 in California. We are busy, with the help of competent volunteers, with the translation of some of our English booklets into French. At this time, two French booklets plus other French articles have been posted on our Websites (www.eternalgod.org; www.churchofgodacf.ca; and www.globalchurchofgod.co.uk). We are also investigating the possibility of printing hard copies of some of our French booklets for our French readers around the world who don’t have access to the Internet.

In Canada we will very shortly have a general election to select the next government for the next three to four years. I find it most interesting that the two major issues that have surfaced are not the economy or health care, but same sex marriages and abortion rights for women. It is really a travesty when governments rise or fall on issues like these. What are our countries coming to? I know similar issues are being faced in the United States and Great Britain, where the legal right to kill unborn children or to marry someone of the same sex are also major issues in the elections of their future governments.

Almighty God, through Paul, one of Christ’s apostles, addressed the issue of same sex relationships. We read in the book of Romans 1:24ñ27: “Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature [or, creation] rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust [not, love] for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.”

This “penalty” might very well include the curse of AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. God makes it very clear in His Word that our sins eventually will catch up with us. Paul continues to state in Romans 1:32: “…who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.”

God hates the sin, but He loves the sinner. He does not want anyone to perish, but His desire is that all will gain eternal life in His kingdom. However, those who refuse to repent of their sins and continue to practice them will not enter the Kingdom of God.

It is also notable to read what Christ had to say regarding the last generation, prior to His return. We find His sobering prophecy in Luke 17:26ñ27: “And as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, UNTIL the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.” This passage does not seem to address homosexual practices per se, the people were apparently living in other types of sin. However, the next two verses are most revealing in regard to ancient Sodom: “Likewise as it was also in the days of Lot: They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built; but on the day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all” (Luke 17:28ñ29).

The quoted passages in Romans and Luke paint a picture of the times we live in today. We might note that all men, young and old, appeared in front of Lot’s house to molest the two strangers who were lodging with Lot (Genesis 19:4ñ5). They did not know, of course, that these young men were angels. Not ten righteous people could be found in Sodom to spare the city from destruction. The prevailing attitude was live and let live, that it did not matter as long as it did not harm them, individually. They approved of what was going on. They were living what appeared to be “normal lives”, they were buying, selling, planting and building. But the longer they stayed and lived in the environment, the more they approved of, and got themselves involved with, perverted activities which were being carried out around them. Sodom’s lifestyle had become “normal” for everyone living in the city, with the exception of Lot. But even Lot lingered when he was told to leave the city (Genesis 19:16).

That the Old and the New Testaments strongly condemn homosexual conduct as sinful cannot be denied. Leviticus 18:22 tells us, “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination.” The Bible is clear, then, that homosexuality must be overcome. The good news is that with God’s help, it CAN be overcome, as can be ANY sin. Notice Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11: “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators [those who engage in pre-marital sex], nor idolaters, nor adulterers [those who engage in extra-marital sex], nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortionists will inherit the kingdom of God. And such WERE SOME OF YOU. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS AND BY THE SPIRIT OF GOD.”

We are told that if we don’t repent and give up wrong habits, replacing them with God’s righteousness, we will not enter the kingdom of God. Homosexuality is most certainly a SIN that must be overcome, but it is NOT the ONLY sin that must be overcome. These who lived before the flood were apparently involved in other types of sin (compare Genesis 6:1-6, 11-12) but they, too, were destroyed, as they were unwilling to repent of their sins and change their lives. Notice Revelation 21:7-8: “He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. But the cowardly [those who know better, but are afraid to change and stand up for what is right], unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and ALL LIARS shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

Those who know better, but WILLFULLY and with HATE AND ANGER permanently and irrevocably REFUSE to repent of their evil conduct will end up in the lake of fire. They will NOT enter the New Jerusalem. Revelation 22:14-15 states: “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. But outside are dogs [compare Phil. 3:2] and sorcerers and sexually immoral [including homosexuals, AS WELL AS those who engage in other sinful sexual conduct, such as fornication and adultery] and murderers and idolaters, and WHOEVER LOVES AND PRACTICES A LIE.”

For some, it is easy to see that homosexuality is sinful. At the same time, it is very difficult for them to see that lying or killing (including killing in war or abortion) is sinful and must be repented of as well. God calls homosexuality an “abomination.” Note, however, what else is an “abomination” in God’s eyes: “These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an ABOMINATION to Him: A proud look, A LYING tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A FALSE witness who speaks LIES, And one who sows discord among brethren”(Proverbs 6:16-19).

The Biblical teaching is clear and consistent: ANY SIN that we REFUSE to repent of will keep us out of the kingdom of God.

We, as part of the Body of Christ, have a duty to cry aloud and show the people their sins. We fulfill our duty through our literature, booklets, sermons and StandingWatch programs. This may seem insignificant to some, but we are commissioned by Christ to do this as His Church and to continue to do this as long as God allows us.

That is the reason why we are so busy writing, producing and publishing new booklets, in addition to our weekly Updates, sermons, and our StandingWatch programs, warning the nations as to what is to come, and offering them hope for a better world. Our most current booklet, “Sickness and Healing, What the Bible Tells Us,” is being printed. We will send it to you, once we receive it from the printer. We are planning to produce soon a StandingWatch program (www.standingwatch.org) in the German language, in our continued efforts to reach the international non-English speaking communities. In addition to the French webpage, mentioned earlier, we have also already in place a German Webpage on which we constantly post new German booklets and articles.

When you look at conditions around the world, you should be able to determine the signs of the times: Wars, rumors of wars, earthquakes, and moral decay. These are troublesome times. We hear on an almost daily basis of continued violence in the Middle East. America and other nations are bogged down in Iraq and Afghanistan. In spite of all this, the average person thinks things are not that bad; that they will get better; and that there is not really any cause for alarm. This is exactly the symptoms and the attitude Christ was warning about: The people before the Flood and at the time of Sodom and Gomorrah did not think, either, that there was cause for alarm, until their destruction was imminent.

There is no question that our nations are going down economically, socially, and morally. God even warns that they will eventually be conquered in war and taken into slavery, unless, they repent. It is our job to continue warning the English-speaking nations and other nations of the world of impending disaster and to reveal a better Way of Life. In order to receive the strength to do God’s work, we ourselves must stay close to God and pray ever fervently for God’s kingdom to come soon, and for His Will to be done on earth, as it is being done in Heaven.

In Christ’s service

Rene E. Messier

PDF

 Dear Brethren and Friends,

In the very short history of the Church of the Eternal God and its affiliated associates in both Canada and Great Britain (Church of God a Christian Fellowship and The Global Church of God), we have witnessed sweeping changes in the world! Now, East and West Europe are uniting! America has been effectively more and more REMOVED from world dominance in terms of its international prestige! We are beginning to see a more dominant role emerging for the Pope and Catholicism!

All of these things – and more – are the fulfillment of Biblical prophecy. The unfolding timeframe of Matthew 24 that Jesus Christ gave for His disciples – especially for those faithful to Him at the end of the age – is playing out before our eyes! In Matthew 24 and 25, we are told by Jesus to WATCH and to BE READY!

The work that God is leading us to accomplish focuses on these very things. Just as we began with what God had given us faithful men and women and their families who believed in standing firmly in the truth – so we now continue to seek to carry on with the work given to us.

True to what the Church of God must ALWAYS DO, we have grown in our understanding, in our zeal and in our love for one another. Notice how Paul states this principle: “but speaking the truth in love, [we] may grow up in all things into Him who is the head – Christ” (Ephesians 4:15). Peter also admonishes us: “but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ”(2 Peter 3:18). (You might want to read the Editorial in our Update for May 14, 2004, by Norbert Link on this subject entitled, “How Do You Grow?”)

Our blessings – including our continued existence – are a direct outgrowth of our mutual commitment to do what we can and what God grants for us in fulfilling the instructions of Matthew 24:14: “And this gospel of the kingdom WILL BE PREACHED IN ALL THE WORLD AS A WITNESS TO ALL THE NATIONS, and then the end will come.”

We understand that the gospel was not preached to the world at large after the first century and until God called Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong in the last century. We also know that some will arise to finish this awesome task at the very end of this age – notably, the two witnesses spoken of in Revelation 11 and Zechariah 4. Right now, the job remains unfulfilled in this, our generation! Although there was a work that reached the lives of millions in the recent past, a whole new generation has arisen. We must build on the foundation of truth we have received and carry on with the work of God.

The knowledge of the TRUTH that we have been given is what we must impart to all who will listen. Some will embrace the way of God while others, perhaps most at this time, will reject it. Regardless, God’s message must go out powerfully in the days, weeks, months and precious FEW YEARS AHEAD! Each month, we send out letters to all of you who stand together with all of us in this calling, and, indeed, it is an unparalleled CALLING from God! Always, we say, “thank you,” for all that you do and for your continuing faithfulness!

But we must remind one another that the job is still ahead of us! It HAS NOT BEEN FINISHED! God is indeed allowing us to be productive in so many ways, but He expects us to do more than what is required. An interesting exchange occurred between the apostles and Jesus when they asked him to “Increase our faith” (Luke 17:5). The sum of what Jesus said to them is found in verse 10: “So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ìWe are UNPROFITABLE SERVANTS. We have done what was our DUTY to do.”

That means that if we are to really please God, our Master, then we must all do more. Most importantly, we are to persevere without quitting and to overcome the obstacles that hinder us in our service to God. These might seem inconsequential at first glance, but we start the process by being faithful in the little things! Jesus taught in the parable of the Minas this basis for true faithfulness. Here is the principle that Jesus related as recorded in Luke 19, verses 11-27, but note, in particular, verse 17: “and he said to him, ìWell done, GOOD SERVANT; BECAUSE YOU WERE FAITHFUL IN A VERY LITTLE, have authority over ten cities.”

Brethren, this translates to our circumstances, today. What we have been given to shepherd is the truth of God. We indeed KNOW what the Church of God must do in terms of its commission. We KNOW what God expects of us in terms of how we now live our lives. We must be careful to not bury the talents given to us to accomplish these things! Also, consider this stern caution from Jesus: “And that servant who KNEW his master’s will, and did not PREPARE himself or DO according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes” (Luke 12:47). We are about to observe the Feast of Pentecost on May 30. This most remarkable time commemorates God giving His Holy Spirit to mankind so that we could truly become like God, even to the point of having perfect character just like Him (Compare Matthew 5:48). That wonderful truth is the very heart of the message of good news, which we have a part in boldly proclaiming to this dying age.

Luke 9:62 states, “But Jesus said to him, ‘No one, having put his hand to the plow, and LOOKING BACK, is fit for the kingdom of God.'”We have been called out of this world, and we are among those who have continued to look forward to the job at hand as well as what surely lies before us in future times.

Our own good news is that we have been given God’s Holy Spirit to help us complete what God has begun in us; we have Jesus Christ as our High Priest to help us and to protect us from the forces of darkness ruled over by Satan; we have a future and a hope because God has included us in His great master plan.

Paul, a very faithful servant of God and apostle of Jesus Christ, completed the work that God gave to him. Here is his approach, one that helped strengthen him in his own calling and one that can encourage us in our calling, today: “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).

Brethren, this must be our persuasion as well. Let’s also keep in mind the kind of ZEAL that the Father and Jesus Christ want to see in us: “You shall love the LORD your God with ALL your heart, with ALL your soul, and with ALL your strength” (Deuteronomy 6:5).

In Christ’s Service,

David J. Harris

PDF

Dear Brethren, Co-workers and Friends:

The people of God are truly well blessed. We have been given so many answers to the big questions & answers that even the most brilliant minds of this world today can’t understand. The booklets that we produce are a gold mine of information and truth as they faithfully reflect our understanding of the Bible.

However, we can learn positively from some of the ways in which people in the world conduct themselves. Christ encouraged us to learn from the “unjust steward” (Luke 16:1-8), and He told us that the people of this world, in their generation, are even smarter or more shrewd than the children of light. That is why we are to be harmless as doves, but at the same time “wise as serpents” (Matthew 10:16). Recently, the Prime Minister in the United Kingdom as well as the President in the USA have been locked in debate over the validity of the war in Iraq. The term, “Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD),” has become a phrase commonplace in the vocabulary of most people. In the UK, we are to have yet another inquiry, and the Prime Minister and other leading politicians on both sides of the divide, have toured the radio and television studios to promulgate their case. We are confronted with claim and counter claim.

Their zeal for the cause is admirable and is a quality that we can learn from. Zeal is defined as “earnestness or fervor in advancing a cause or rendering a service; hearty and persistent endeavor.” Even in the many different corporate Churches of God, there is a consensus that we are now living in the Laodicean era – even if there is considerable disagreement as to what group or person belongs to it. The main characteristic of a Laodicean is a lukewarm attitude (Revelation 3:16) – an attitude lacking in zeal (verse 19). This lukewarm attitude amongst some or many of Godís people is not the same state of mind exhibited by the proponents in the political arena on both sides of the Iraqi war debate. Rather, zeal, activity and considerable energy are eaten up in this ongoing saga.

In addition, the Democratic Party in the USA has been going through the process of choosing its candidate to take on President George W. Bush in the Presidential election later this year. Television pictures of their energy, vitality and excitement can be in stark contrast to the way that some Church of God people behave. Their zeal for the cause is certainly an area that we can try to emulate.

Of course, politics is full of Commandment breaking as it reflects the moral deterioration in society at large, with the Ninth Commandment suffering as much as any. Lying, or the making of promises, which are subsequently broken or “forgotten,” is endemic in the human condition. We have historically seen and heard politicians who were “economical with the truth” as they vie for votes, public attention and general support. This is an area that we, as true Christians, must ensure that we don’t slip into, however inadvertently.

Even a cursory look at current events clearly reveals a world that is ill at ease with itself in almost every aspect of its activities. Relying on our fellow man is an exercise in futility, irrespective of the promises of political candidates for the Presidency or their equivalent counterparts in the UK who have the same agendaóthat of being elected or re-elected. The only real security we have is belief and faith in the one true God.

In the UK, politicians are never heard to mention God unless the word is used as an expletive. God, His ways and His Commandments are completely overlooked or ignored by mortal man who thinks he knows best. In the USA, God might be mentioned at times, but it is obvious that the real and true teachings of God have been forgotten. I recently heard a comment that said that in spite of 32 million laws having been passed, they had not improved on the original 10 (Commandments). This is a pithy and telling comment, acknowledging the fact that Godís Law is far above any human concepts and ideas regarding the kind of law that should regulate our conduct.

For almost 2,000 years, there has been the expectation of a new world order with Christ reigning on earth as King of kings in the Kingdom of God, supplanting the current order ably led in defiant rebellion against God by the god of this world (compare 2 Corinthians 4: 4). At one time Paul felt that Christ would return in his lifetime (1 Thessalonians 4:15). Others believed this, too, down through the ages. And the church in our generation has had the same level of expectation. The fact that Christ has not yet returned has caused many to lose their zeal, although right now zeal is extremely important! It is now that we need to use all our energies and strength to continue. Paul encouraged all of us in this way: “… now is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed” (Romans 13:11). Many, however, have decided to do the absolutely worst thing that they possibly could have done: They have failed to continue with the Christian way of life. In addition, scoffers which were predicted to rise up (2 Peter 3:3-4) don’t help those who are still “hanging in there,” struggling with their dedication to God and His way and who may be experiencing severe trials of one sort or another in their lives. But this is when God finds out about us. Are we in it for the long haul and are we sold on His way of life? Have we made such a firm commitment with God that we will NEVER give up – no matter what may happen?

Zeal can help us to stay the course. Mr. Herbert Armstrong said that he had to keep a prod on himself and the church by his sense of urgency. With such a sense of urgency it is difficult to become lukewarm. In recent years, many of the people of God have become lax in many ways. When viewing those zealous, dedicated and committed politicians and public figures, even though their agenda is only temporary and motivated by human desires, it is something that we can try to emulate on a permanent basis, and in a godly way.

Christ asked whether He would find faith on the earth (Luke 18:8) at His return. With events in recent years, shattering the church and scattering Godís people, it becomes clearer why He had this in mind, and it is imperative that we stay dedicated to God and His way. If we have any traces of this lukewarm attitude, we must do everything in our power to eliminate them immediately.

It really cannot be emphasized too much that this condition which is roundly condemned in Godís Word (Revelation 3:14-19) is not something that we must ever be found guilty of. Most politicians and leading figures in society are usually zealous and dedicated to their cause and endeavors. This is something that must also be at the heart of our Christian commitment. Anything less, according to Scripture, is unacceptable and the consequences are dire.

Let us all make sure that we receive a positive evaluation from Jesus Christ when He returns to this earth, irrespective of when that most wonderful event occurs. Will we all hear Him say to us: “Well done good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21)? These are the words that will be spoken to those who have zealously and faithfully endured to the very end. Will those words be said to each and every one of us?

With brotherly love,

Brian Gale

PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends

The third annual ministerial conference is now behind us as we approach the upcoming Passover season. The meetings, held in San Diego, began the evening of March 6 and were completed on March 10, 2004. Those attending the conference sessions were: Edwin and Joan Pope; Norbert and Johanna Link; David and Peggy Harris; Rene and Delia Messier; Brian and Jill Gale; Margaret Adair; and Wray and Jule Zehrung. Church representatives were present from the UK, Canada and the US.

Our meetings were extremely successful. Following an extensive review of the Church’s Internet activities, plans for new design elements and greater use of Church web pages occupied the first part of this conference. The STANDINGWATCH program, which is currently available at the Church of the Eternal God website (www.eternalgod.org), will soon be available at an additional site now under construction (www.standingwatch.org). These video programs, presented by Norbert Link, highlight news events relating to prophecy along with commentary on Christian living.

Increasing the circulation of the weekly news “Update” of the Church, along with recommendations for new booklets received detailed discussion. The plan is to publish and print five (5) new booklets for distribution during 2004, addressing topics such as the authority of the Bible, healing and tithing, among others. Additionally, recent steps have been taken to provide computer backup and expanded software capabilities for live Internet Sabbath services (www.cognetservices.org). Plans were finalized to release approximately seventy-five Question and Answer reprints plus additional Editorial reprints from the “Update” for Internet access and direct mail distribution.

Several specific doctrinal questions were addressed, and general plans for Church related functions in the upcoming months were established.

But now we come to Passover, the first step in the great plan of God and the first of God’s annual festivals. God commanded the observance of this event, which pictured the death angel going throughout the land of Egypt performing his assigned task, which was to kill the firstborn but passing over those homes protected by the blood of the Passover Lamb.

We understand the great significance of this event, which has been taught to many called-out brethren during this age; yet so many of these brethren have rejected this truth because of negligence and false teaching. God had a specific purpose in mind as He stipulated the requirement of the people to be diligent in their observance of these events.

In the New Testament Christ commanded that we continue to observe these events year by year, but with new symbols which He established, so that we would never forget the tremendous sacrifice made by Him and by the Father while Christ was on this earth in the flesh.

We see this command in Luke 22:19-20: “And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’ Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.’”

Rather than following God’s command, many have turned to the pagan custom of observing Easter, a festival which is nowhere proclaimed by Christ or the early Christian Church which He established. The festival of Passover, along with all of God’s required festivals and holy days, are fully explained in our free booklet— “God’s Commanded Holy Days.”

As noted, Christ never observed the pagan festival called Easter; neither did any of the New Testament apostles or disciples. The Passover, however, was observed by Christ, the apostles, and the New Testament Church and that fact is clearly revealed in numerous places in the Bible.

Note, Matthew 26:17-20: “Now on the first … of the Feast of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying to Him, ‘Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?’ And He said, ‘Go into the city to a certain man, and say to Him, “The Teacher says, ‘My time is at hand; I will keep the Passover at your house with My disciples.’”’ So the disciples did as Jesus directed them and they prepared the Passover.”

This observance was on the very night of Christ’s betrayal. But this was not something new for Christ. This Way He had been taught from childhood. Luke 2:40-42. “And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the Feast.”

No, Christ never attempted to change His Father’s Law. Thus, He kept the Passover and all of God’s Holy Days and He commanded that we do likewise.

Passover and the Holy Days are a critical part of our training and in properly observing these days we draw closer to God and to His Way of Life. They are critical to our salvation, dear brethren and friends, and we must never let down in their proper observance. Therefore, let us all begin to think on these Holy Days and their significance for us as we prepare for Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread.

In Christ’s Service

J. Edwin Pope

Norbert Link

David J. Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends:

As most modern societies count the years, we have entered the year of 2004. When reflecting on what the world experienced in 2003, chances are, the year of 2004 will hear more of the same bad news, except, perhaps, in an even worse way. Let us briefly remind ourselves of some of the news in 2003 (You might want to ‘read along with us,’ by looking at the headlines in our Current Event sections of our weekly Updates of 2003):

January 2003: Worldwide Times of Terror; Captivity-Beyond the Pale; Big Brother in the U.S.; The European Union and the United Nations vs. the U.S. and Great Britain; U.S. Divided Against Itself; The Roman Catholic and Protestant Churches vs. U.S.

February 2003: America’s Troubles – And No End; America and Europe – a Great Divide; Is the World Facing World Destruction?; Droughts in Australia and the U.S.

March 2003: Assassination in Serbia; Moab – the Mother of All Bombs; Ongoing Conflict with North Korea; Will There Be Peace?

April 2003: Victory – but at What Price?; Cold War in Asia; How Safe Is This World?

May 2003: Earthquakes; World Hunger; U.S. Deflation; SARS – and No End in Sight

June 2003: Unprecedented U.S. National Debt; Apocalypse Now; Iraq – a Thorn in the Flesh; HIV; Supreme Court Strikes Down Gay Sex Ban; Ongoing Attacks in Iraq

July 2003: Nuclear Attacks on the U.S.?; U.S. States Deficit Highest Since World War II; U.S. National Missile Defense System Useless?

August 2003: Religious Persecution in Europe; New Terror Attacks in Sight?; Sex Crimes Cover Up by Vatican?; Iran’s and Syria’s Long-Range Missiles; Russia Hit by Meteor; Homosexuality in Church Leadership; The Great Darkness; West Nile Cases

September 2003: Terror Attacks in the U.K.; Earthquakes and Asteroids; Road Map to War? Sweden, the Euro and Murder; Ignored War in Northeastern Congo

October 2003: Water Shortage in Australia; Firestorms in California, Colorado and B.C.

November 2003: Witches Accepted; Unbalanced Fear of Anti-Semitism; Reinstitution of the U.S. Draft; Religious Persecution in Germany; Homosexuality in England; Russia – Stalin Remains Popular; Terror in Istanbul; U.S. Dollar Keeps Falling; Gay Rights on the March; Religious Rights Are Threatened

December 2003: EU Warns Israel; Iraq War Opponents Barred From Bidding; U.S. Retreats From Germany; Zimbabwe Resigns From Commonwealth; Mad Cow Disease in the U.S.; Earthquake in California

This was just a representative sample of topics discussed in our weekly Updates “bad” news that is nevertheless interesting, important and perhaps even necessary to occur, in light of Biblical prophecy. (If you have not carefully read our weekly Updates during this past year, you see what you might have been missing.)

But then, we also brought you very encouraging news – as it relates to our part in God’s Work of preaching the gospel and feeding the flock. Every Update contains a Biblical Question and Answer section, as well as an Editorial discussing Christian living or other Biblically related issues. These columns include many Biblical quotes backing up what is being said. (In carefully reading our Updates, you were able to conduct your own personal Bible studies in regard to almost 100 Biblical topics.)

By the end of 2003, we had produced 13 booklets and a reprint article in English, as well as two booklets and several articles in German, and one booklet and several articles in French, all of which have been posted on our Websites. We conducted advertising campaigns in England and Canada, offering some of our booklets. We received hundreds of responses from brand-new people. Further, we had produced, by the end of 2003, almost 25 StandingWatch Internet broadcasts, discussing current events in the light of Biblical prophecies, and pointing the listener and viewer to the right way of living, as revealed in God’s Word. (We also began, in 2003, the process of designing an additional Webpage, directed mainly at brand-new people who have had little or no contact with any of the Sabbath-keeping Church of God organizations.) In addition, we sent out our monthly member letters, as well as taped audio sermons for our scattered brethren without Internet access, who are unable to listen to our live Internet Sabbath services.

All of this is VERY good news, as the truth of God is thus being made available to everyone who has Internet access, and to many, who heard about, and requested, our written publications. So far, we have received email messages and letters from readers in the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Continental Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Africa.

It is important not to lose sight of why we are here. In light of all the “bad” news, which we had in 2003, and which can be expected to continue and worsen in 2004, coupled with personal trials and shortcomings, it is easy to lose faith and the desire to continue with zeal and dedication in the most important task which could possibly exist today – the task of giving hope to this dying world and to the called-out disciples of Christ. We do this by preaching and teaching God’s truth to all that are willing to listen. We may do this directly and immediately, by writing and reviewing articles and booklets, speaking in sermons, sermonettes or on Internet broadcasts; helping before, during and after Sabbath services; assisting with Internet broadcasts; maintaining and updating our Websites; sending out our booklets and Updates; preparing and ó 3 ó distributing audio sermon tapes; sending interesting news articles to San Diego for the Updates; or translating articles and booklets into foreign languages. There are many other immediate and direct ways to assist in the great Work of God, not even mentioned here. At the same time, we are commanded by God to faithfully bring our tithes and offerings to “God’s storehouse,” (compare Malachi 3:8-10), so that God’s Work can continue. Tithing is a personal obligation toward God. It is a sin not to tithe, either because of flagrant intentional disobedience, or because of continued neglect or indifference. God will not hold guiltless those who are rebellious, or even negligent toward His Word. And, to be sure, tithing is an obligation of man (Malachi 3:8), not just of Church members. Finally, one of the most important ways of supporting the Work of God is heartfelt prayer, coupled with occasional fasting. Christ commands us to pray for the Work of God (compare Luke 10:2), which goes forward on the knees of all of those whom God has called to have a part in His Work.

And so, there is no time to become slack and lackadaisical. We KNOW that our trials for, and our efforts in the Work are not in vain (compare Galatians 3:4; 1 Corinthians 15:58). We KNOW that Christ will come soon to give us our full reward (2 John 8) for our diligence and perseverance (Revelation 22:12). We KNOW that we must overcome (Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 21). We must overcome our sinful nature, this world, and Satan the devil, the ruler of this world. It has been a time-proven fact that the best and must successful way of overcoming these three enemies is direct and continuous involvement in the Work of God. This is the case, as we focus on others, rather than on ourselves. We develop outgoing love for others, thereby becoming more and more like God (Matthew 5:48), Who IS love (1 John 4:16).

Yes, there will be trials and difficulties. We must through MANY tribulations enter the Kingdom of God (Acts 14:22; compare also Psalm 34:19). The righteous may fall seven times, but he does not give up. He gets up every time and continues to walk the walk (compare Proverbs 24:16). He has the HOPE of eternal life in the Kingdom of God clearly in front of his eyes (compare Titus 1:2). This hope motivates him to continue (compare Hebrews 6:17-20).

We have much to do in 2004. We have been discussing new projects, including the writing and publication of additional booklets and ad campaigns. Doors are open before us, but only through the combined efforts of all those, whose heart God has touched, will we be able to go through those doors. And MOST IMPORTANTLY, we must do so because we want to serve God, and because we LOVE those whom He wants us to reach. We MUST NEVER develop the attitude of becoming “big” in our own eyes, because of the success, which God might grant us. This was the downfall of King Saul. This has become the downfall of many in recent years who had joined the Worldwide Church of God, because it had become a somewhat “respectable” organization, with expensive buildings, and with a human leader who was invited by governmental officials all over the world. None of those activities and possessions were wrong, of course. In fact, due to the diligence and perseverance of its human leader, God blessed his and the Church’s efforts, even in physical respects. But, the motives of those were wrong who “joined” the Church BECAUSE of those “prestigious” activities and costly buildings. We must keep our right perspective. God will not continue to use someone in His Work who is more concerned about his status, financial security, salary or pension, as well as his personal image – as to how he is viewed by others- than he is concerned about God’s truth, including a genuine humility on his part and his willingness to repent of his sins and mistakes. The Bible is very clear on this point. Let’s not forget this vital lesson. As experience and the record of history have shown, it is easy to fall into the pit of self-glorification, thereby misappropriating for oneself titles that exclusively belong to Christ, or titles which God did not bestow on a particular person.

At the same time, let all of us, in the Church of the Eternal God, and in its corporate affiliates in Canada and Great Britain, remain humble, always abounding in the Work of God, and in the faith of Jesus Christ. Then, no obstacle will be too difficult for us to overcome, and no trial will defeat us. Nobody knows when Christ will return. But those who understand Biblical prophecies know that it is not very far away. That is why we must continue to watch world events – but we must do so as a MOTIVATION to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ, and to overcome our weaknesses. The Church is asked to preach, as part of the gospel message, REPENTANCE to all that are willing to listen (Luke 24:46-47). Most people think today that they have no need to repent. This is even true for some – if not many -in the Church. Christ warns all of us, in Revelation 3:19: ‘” be zealous and repent.'” If we don’t repent, He will vomit us out of His mouth (compare Revelation 3:16). This warning must be taken very seriously.

We are called to succeed – individually and also collectively, as a part of Gods s Church. God did not call us out of this world so that we should fail. God did not inspire us to continue with preaching the gospel and feeding the flock, only to meet miserable defeat. God does not want us to give up and cease doing the Work, by wrongly convincing ourselves that the Work of God has been completed. If we only concentrate on “feeding the flock” how WE can “make it into the Kingdom of God” then we act selfishly. If we only join a Church organization to have “a good time” in Church, by being together with friends and engaging in social activities, then, again, we act selfishly. And selfishness is not a character trait or a fruit of God’s Holy Spirit of love (compare 2 Timothy 1:7) which is outgoing concern for the benefit of others. Also, we must not be ashamed of God’s Word (Romans 1:16). If we are afraid to proclaim the truth boldly and without compromise, because we fear that someone might become upset about the truth, then we do not obey the express command of Christ, not to be ashamed of Him and His Word in this “adulterous and sinful generation” (Mark 8:38; Luke 9:26).

But, it is always our choice. We can choose to stay zealous and dedicated to God and His Work, or we can decide to give up. We pray to God that YOU will continue to please God and others – not merely yourself -by showing genuine love for the welfare of a world that is suffering with anguish and pain. When God is WITH and IN you, who can defeat you? NOBODY will be able to – except you yourself.

With Christian love

Norbert Link

PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends,

The Church of the Eternal God came into existence because of issues of compromise. Likewise, both the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship in Canada and the Global Church of God in the United Kingdom have had to withstand these unacceptable alterations to Godís revealed truth. All of us were unwilling to settle for some very critical changes in doctrine as well as doctrinal approach, explanation and practice that would begin to erode the true teachings and administration of Godís Church. In that tumultuous time of transition, each of us made difficult decisions about our individual involvement in the future Work that God has so clearly called us to complete – at least, our part in it!

Weeks, months and now years have passed since we first organized together in order to carry on in the calling we have been given. Some who began with us have not continued. God chose to add others, in their stead, to our fellowship. Little by little -almost incrementally- God has rewarded our efforts to faithfully serve Him.

As we reported earlier, we were blessed to have five baptisms here in the United States at the Feast of Tabernacles held at Morro Bay, California. What is of particular note in these instances was that these individuals were all young adults. They had studied and proven the Biblical teachings regarding baptism. They stepped out in faith as each of us has done, and they committed their lives to God’s Way of living.

God has immeasurably blessed their lives through the work of all of us in the Church of the Eternal God and our corporate affiliates under the guidance of Godís mighty hand. They read booklets, listened to sermons, fellowshipped and sought counsel all within this faithful little organization. It is important for each of us to keep this perspective in mind.

Yet, this is only the beginning! We have been given the opportunity to bring the good new’s, the Gospel of the Kingdom of God to many others. In a world that is so estranged from its Maker, knowledge of even the proper way to live has been turned upside down and inside out! The societies that inhabit this earth at the present time donít even begin to understand the terrifying events that are about to descend on this unsuspecting world!

It is the responsibility of God’s Church to bring a message of warning and to serve those whom God is calling to salvation. Note what Jesus taught His disciples: “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!” (John 4:35).

It is truly significant that Jesus challenged His disciples with these words shortly after meeting a woman from Samaria – a Gentile. At that time, Jesus and His disciples were dealing with the Jews and those of the rest of the tribes of Israel.

Later on, Peter, then Paul, was sent to the Gentiles to also bring the Way of God to them.

Consider, also, that Jesus spoke of a saying that was popular then regarding the time of harvest. He, however, made a point of explaining that the harvest was ready NOW! He was talking about those who were ready to hear the truth of God, to repent and be baptized and to receive the Holy Spirit of God!

Paul adds insight for us: “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!'”(Romans 10:14-15).

It is through the joint efforts of those who support this work of the Church that we are steadily progressing in the ability to tell others of this Way of life. Not all are called upon to preach, not all have a direct role in writing or editing or designing our publications or serving directly in the Church, but ALL OF US do have a direct role in supporting this Work! We can ALL DO SOMETHING! And that is what God expects of each one of us – to do what we are able to do!

Your loyalty, encouragement and continuing faithfulness to God and His Truth in spite of individual hardships are a source of inspiration and strength. Regularly meeting with one another on the Sabbath is important for us to do – even if it is the chat room on the internet. Notes of encouragement and responses to helpful publications and sermons establish a bond throughout the body of Christ. Praying for the sick and remembering those in great trials are examples of the kind of support that the early Church practiced. We can all work on caring for and praying for one another as friends and brethren, just as Christ does for us. This kind of approach is also well pleasing to our Father.

In this same context, consider the rest of what Jesus taught in John 4: “And he who reaps [that is, gathers the harvest] receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. For in this the saying is true: ‘One sows and another reaps.’ I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors” (verses 36-38).

Brethren, the Church of the Eternal God and its corporate affiliates have entered into this labor, as well. It is God Who will continue to bless us as we seek to zealously serve Him through obedience to those things that He has revealed to us.

A long ago time, King Hezekiah turned to God and sought to lead Judah and Israel back to God. He sought to re-establish the observance of Godís Holy Days beginning with the Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread. For those who listened, note what God did: “Also the hand of God was on Judah to give them singleness of heart to obey the command of the king and the leaders, at the word of the LORD” (2 Chronicles 30:12).

Verse 26 of 2 Chronicles 30 states: “So there was great joy in Jerusalem, for since the time of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel, there had been nothing like this in Jerusalem.” We have the same opportunity to have God give us “singleness of heart”. Indeed, we will need it! The job out ahead of us is awe-inspiring! Just as we have begun with the unity that is an outgrowth of love, so now, we must forge onward as God directs the work He wants us to accomplish.

We are currently making plans for a ministerial conference in very early March of 2004. Also, we have secured the web name, STANDINGWATCH.ORG, which is the basis for creating a separate web page that will be directed to the public. More than twenty STANDINGWATCH programs already completed along with select news items and booklets will be some of what appears on this new site. Programming work to get this up and running is currently being done. By the time you receive this letter, our newest booklet, entitled “Are You Already Born Again?”, will be on its way to the printer for distribution in January.

The Church of the Eternal God along with its corporate affiliates is bearing fruit, and the most important is that each of us is growing individually. In truth, brethren, the more we commit ourselves to the Work of God and to our involvement in His Church, the more we will grow in spiritual understanding and Christ-like character.

In these dark times of wars, famines, diseases along with natural disasters all around the globe, let us remember that these are “the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:8). We must continue to do our part to sound the alarm of greater dangers ahead. Finally, brethren, we must strive to be faithful examples of true Christianity teaching others the way to life everlasting and the true salvation that only God can give!

In Christís Service,

David J. Harris

PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends,

As we return to our daily activities and begin to face the season ahead, having enjoyed immensely the fall festivals, we now must endure these next five months before the spring festivals begin and, we must not let down in our pursuit of God’s Way in our lives. Our purpose must continually be in the forefront of our thoughts, which purpose is to see God’s Kingdom established on this earth and our part in it.

Church doctrine remains critical to God’s Way of life, yet so many seem to have abandoned the teachings we have received. Eternal life hinges on sound doctrine as outlined in God’s Word. We must prove these things to ourselves over and over and we must reject anything that contradicts these truths.

Paul addresses these things in his two epistles written to the young evangelist, Timothy. Paul cautioned Timothy to be certain those under him were not teaching contrary to the doctrine as he had been taught (1 Timothy 1:3ñ4). He continued this line of thinking in 2 Timothy 3:1ñ5, where he stated that at the end time (our time today) there would be those in the Church who would go contrary to these teachings and would cause much trouble for the people of God.

It is imperative, brethren, that we not get caught up in such activities. We must prove and hold fast to God’s Truth. His Truth does not change over time! God does not change (Malachi 3:6). We as a people must strive to remain faithful to the teachings we have received. Satan will tempt us, just as he tempted Christ, because he wants to see us fail. Christ, however, always went back to God’s Word in disputing the lies of Satan (Matthew 4:1-11).

We will live our lives, either by God’s Ways or by the ways of this world. Time will test us all in these things. Will we be faithful?

We have strong instruction concerning these things in the prophecies of the book of Daniel. We can read of one of these in Daniel 11:32-35:

“Those who do wickedly against the covenant he shall corrupt with flattery; but the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits. And those of the people who understand shall instruct many; yet for many days they shall fall by the sword and flame, by captivity and plundering. Now when they fall, they shall be aided with a little help; but many shall join with them by intrigue. And some of those of understanding shall fall, to refine them, purge them, and make them white, until the time of the end; because it is still for the appointed time.”

We see additional instruction in Paul’s epistle to the Romans, chapter 6; verses 16-18: “Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin to death, or of obedience to righteousness? But God be thanked that though you were slaves to sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. And having been set free from sin, you became slaves to righteousness.”

What are we willing to endure, brethren, for the prize of the calling to which we have been called? Paul tells us in 1Timothy 4:16 that we should take heed to ourselves and to the doctrine. If we continue in the doctrine, we will save both ourselves and those who hear us. Are we committed to this Way? If we are ashamed of God and His Way, today, Christ will be ashamed of us at the time of His return (Mark 8:38).

In speaking to Titus, Paul noted that one who was to be ordained as a bishop must be a member who holds fast to “the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict”(Titus 1:9). Since we have all been called to learn to become teachers of God’s Way, these words of Paul apply directly to each of us. Now is the time when we must be learning these things.

In verse 16 of Titus, chapter 1, Paul notes those who “profess to know God, but in works they deny Him…” Yet, we read of Daniel, even after he knew a decree had been signed against him concerning His faithfulness to God” he continued to openly serve God, praying to Him and giving thanks, as was his custom (Daniel 6:10). Are we that committed to God and to His Ways that we will continue to serve God, even to the point of being willing to lose our physical lives for this Way? We must come to that level of commitment!

Now is our day of salvation, brethren (2 Corinthians 6:2; 1 Peter 4:17ñ18). We must continually grow in God’s Way and we must not allow the customs and seasons of this world to affect our loyalty to God and to His Way of life. We must never compromise with God’s Word. No doubt, in the past, we have all sinned by breaking God’s Law. As the appointed time approaches, we must be ever more diligent in committing our lives to His Way! Let us use these days, weeks, and months ahead as an opportunity to learn even more of God’s Way and let us draw near to Him in prayer and in fasting…both for our own benefit and for the benefit of all who may come in contact with us, who “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3).

In Christian love,

J. Edwin Pope