On Saturday, July 16, 2005, Norbert Link will be giving the sermon from Colorado. The title of the sermon is, “Faith in Luke’s Writings.”

The services can be heard at www.cognetservices.org at 12:30 pm Pacific Time (which is 2:30 pm Central Time). Just click on Connect to Live Stream

Christ asked His apostles the question, “Who Am I?”, in a slightly different format. Matthew 16:13 records Christ’s saying: “‘Who DO MEN SAY that I, the Son of Man, am ?'” Their answer was, as preserved in verse 14: “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” Then pressing them a little further, He asked them point blank, in verse 15: “‘But who do you say that I am?'” Peter answered that He was the Christ, the Son of the living God. Christ not only concurred with Peter’s statement, but He told him this was revealed to him by God (compare verses 16-17).

If someone was to ask you who you are, what would your answer be? Would it be that you are the son or daughter of your father, Mr.___, who came from a certain part of Canada or the US or Europe or another part of the world? That you are a mechanic or a computer programmer, a builder, or of another occupation and trade? These answers may be accurate, but they would be incomplete.

Ask yourself, “Who am I?”

What does God, through the Bible, say we are? 1 Peter 2:9 calls you a chosen son or daughter of the living God, a priest, a holy individual, and a special person. If you continue to the end, you will be fulfilling and carrying out kingly and priestly functions. 1 John 3:1-2 calls you a child of God.

There is a saying: A person will rise to his expectation. If you are constantly told you are inferior or not too bright, you will in all likelihood be or become that way. On the other hand, God has already determined what we are and will be in the future–if we do our part. So it is our responsibility to rise to HIS expectation and conduct ourselves as priests, holy individuals, special in God’s eyes (which we are), and as children of God, to rule with Christ in the Kingdom.

There is another saying: The cream rises to the top. God looks at us as “the cream.” We don’t say this to be puffed up. Rather, we need to consider that regardless of our position in this life, “God has chosen the weak… of the world” for His purpose (1 Corinthians 1:27). However, we are destined for greatness. 1 Corinthians 3:23 tells us that we are Christ’s. We are destined for glory and rulership. We should never take our eyes off our future goal.

The answer to our original question, “Who am I?”, is this: “I am a special person in God’s eyes, a potential king and priest and much more than that. I am a begotten child, a son or daughter of God, to be born as an immortal God being, when Christ returns.” We must never forget that!

G8 Failed?

The EUobserver reported on July 8, 2005: “Though world leaders tried to portray it as a win, in reality US president George W. Bush kept leaders from the world’s eight largest economies from agreeing on ways to slow the effects of global climate change. At the top of the agenda for the two-day summit in Gleneagles, Scotland, heads of state and government (referred to as “G8″) from France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Russia and Japan, led by UK prime minister Tony Blair, worked to get Mr. Bush to agree on climate change policies. But they failed.”

It will have to be seen how long all the influential nations will be tolerant to US politics in such important matters, such as global warming.

The article pointed out that they did agree “to help end extreme poverty in Africa by doubling aid donations to Euro 41.9 bn ($50 bn) per year by 2010, but charities felt it didn’t go far enough.” They also “pledged Euro 2.5 bn ($3 bn) over the next few years to help support the Palestinian government in its independence from Israel.”

Italy Next?

Reuters published an article on July 8, 2005, following the terrorist attacks in London, asking the pertinent question as to what country will be next. According to the article, it appears that it will be Italy, and especially Rome. The article stated:

“Italy is a repeated target of Islamic militant threats… Two different groups claiming affiliation to al Qaeda have warned of attacks on Italy within the past 24 hours alone. One group calling itself the Organization of al Qaeda – Jihad in the Arabian Peninsula described Rome as ‘the capital of infidels’ in a menacing message on Friday… [F]or many Rome residents, an attack seems inevitable… After the United States and Britain, Italy is the third largest Western member of coalition forces in Iraq, and Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi acknowledged that Italy’s role in Iraq left it ‘exposed’ to attack.”

The German press reported that an attack on the Vatican is anticipated. Allegedly, such an attack with airplanes had been planned for Christmas 2005, but had not been carried out, for unknown reasons.

Perhaps not as “coincidental” as described by Berlusconi, Italy announced that they will be withdrawing their troops from Iraq.

Hurricane Dennis

As The Associated Press reported on July 9, 2005, “More than 1 million people from the Florida Panhandle to Louisiana were under evacuation orders. Landfall was expected Sunday afternoon anywhere from the Florida Panhandle to southeast Louisiana… The storm [was] the earliest to reach Category 4 strength in the Caribbean on record… “

On July 11, 2005, The Associated Press added that “The total insured damage from Hurricane Dennis, which hit parts of the U.S. Gulf Coast over the weekend, will amount to between $3 billion and $5 billion.”

Hurricane Dennis is the first of a series of devastating hurricanes to be expected to strike the US this year.

Sheep Suicide?

The Associated Press reported on July 8, 2005: “First one sheep jumped to its death. Then stunned Turkish shepherds, who had left the herd to graze while they had breakfast, watched as nearly 1,500 others followed, each leaping off the same cliff, Turkish media reported. In the end, 450 dead animals lay on top of one another in a billowy white pile, the Aksam newspaper said.”

Scientists debate whether animals can purposefully and conscientiously commit suicide. Many historical records prove that some animals killed themselves. However, the question remains whether they are influenced by demons when they do so. A classic example of demonic possession of many swine, leading to a mass suicide, can be found in Matthew 8:28-34.

Luxembourg and Malta approve EU Constitution

The Associated Press reported on July 10, 2005: “Luxembourg voters approved the European Union’s proposed constitution in a referendum Sunday… Officials said 56.52 percent of the vote was in favor of the constitution, while 43.48 percent voted against it. Luxembourg is the 13th country to ratify the charter, but rejections by the two larger countries [France and The Netherlands] have thrown its future into doubt… European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said Luxembourg’s approval was a ‘strong signal’ that voters still think a constitution can help build ‘a more democratic Europe.’ However, he warned in a statement that its fate remained ‘uncertain.'”

The article continued:

“Luxembourg, a wealthy nation of 450,000 wedged between France, Germany and Belgium, has traditionally been one of the European Union’s most ardent supporters. Many questions remain over the EU’s future, including whether it will give full membership to Turkey and whether it should create the posts of EU president and foreign minister… [Luxembourg Prime Minister Jean-Claude] Juncker’s campaign for the charter was bolstered when the tiny country of Malta became the 12th EU nation to ratify the constitution Wednesday by a unanimous parliamentary vote. Luxembourg was the first EU member to go ahead with a referendum following the Dutch and French ‘no’ votes. Britain, Denmark and Portugal have scrapped theirs.”

The EUobersever clarified on July 10, 2005, that “The UK, Denmark, Portugal, Poland [and] Ireland… shelved their referendum plans after the decision of the European summit in June to put the ratification process on ice. The Czech republic, undecided until then, also announced it would not hold a referendum.”

Chinese in Colorado?

The United Press International reported on July 11, 2005, that “Canadian oil giant EnCana is considering bringing in Chinese companies to construct and operate drilling rigs in the Colorado Rockies… EnCana, a major player in the Piceance Basin of western Colorado, said Chinese labor is cheap and the workers are well-educated. The move would be scrutinized in Washington, where politicians are uneasy about allowing Chinese workers to acquire access to U.S.-based oil and gas facilities… Although China’s increased participation in the U.S. oil and gas industry is a prickly issue in Washington, the EnCana spokesman predicted that U.S. policy-makers would concede because Chinese companies would fill a dire need… The cost of drilling in Colorado has nearly doubled since last year, EnCana officials said. Rates increased from $8,500 per day to $14,000 per day in one year.”

This development is in line with a prophecy in the Bible, declaring that because of the sins of the nation, “the alien who is among you shall rise higher and higher above you, and you shall come down lower and lower. He shall lend to you, but you shall not lend to him; he shall be the head, and you shall be the tail… Because you did not serve the LORD your God with joy and gladness of heart, for the abundance of everything, therefore you shall serve your enemies, whom the LORD will send against you…” (Deuteronomy 28:43-44, 47-48).

Barrier Around Jerusalem

Reuters reported on July 11, 2005, that “European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana criticized Israel on Monday for a barrier it is building around Jerusalem, and the Palestinian prime minister said it made a farce of efforts to restart the peace process. Israel faced new pressure over its controversial network of walls and fences a day after giving final approval to a segment it said would eventually separate 55,000 Palestinian residents of Jerusalem from the rest of the holy city… The World Court declared it illegal a year ago, but Israel has ignored the ruling.”

It was also reported that the Bush Administration has stated reservations against the barrier. The article continued:

“[Solana] said the Jerusalem barrier would also have a symbolic effect. The city is holy to Jews, Christians and Muslims. Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qurie responded harshly to the Israeli decision, calling it ‘theft in broad daylight’ of land Palestinians seek for the capital of their future state.”

The Associated Press added:

“Israel’s separation barrier in and around Jerusalem is meant to ensure a Jewish majority in the disputed city, a Cabinet minister acknowledged Monday, contradicting government claims that the divider is solely a temporary security measure… Also Monday, Israeli officials said they would seek $2.2 billion in additional U.S. aid for the summer’s withdrawal from Gaza and four West Bank settlements.”

According to an opinion poll conducted by CNN on Tuesday, July 12, 90% of participants voted AGAINST such an additional U.S. aid.

Euro Rises Slightly

As AFP reported on July 11, 2005, “The dollar came under pressure after a mixed report on US jobs and Luxembourg’s approval of the European Union constitution… The euro rose Monday to 1.2018 dollars in early European trading, from 1.1970 late on Friday in New York… The US unit ‘has weakened across the foreign exchange market after Friday’s employment report for June failed to meet market expectations’, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi economist Derek Halpenny said. A government report showed the US unemployment rate had fallen to a four-year low point of 5.0 percent last month.”

Germany’s Uncertain Future?

The Associated Press reported on July 10, 2005, that “Germany’s opposition aims to oust Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder with a program to boost Europe’s largest economy and ‘reinvigorate’ relations with the United States… The program, to be formally endorsed Monday by the Christian Democratic Union [CDU] and its Bavarian sister party [CSU], includes an increase in sales tax and looser rules for companies to hire and fire staff. It also rules out Turkish membership in the European Union. The parties are also trying to win back voters by invoking Germany’s strained relations with Washington. Schroeder ran for re-election in 2002 on a platform opposing the U.S.-led war in Iraq, and Bush pointedly refused to offer the traditional congratulations to him on his victory. Germany’s conservatives have been careful not to back the war–sending troops to Iraq would be deeply unpopular–but insist only a change of government can heal the rift with Washington.”

However, new elections in September are not yet a certainty. Germany’s President Koehler sent Chancellor Schroeder a catalogue of questions pertaining to the recent “no-confidence vote” in Parliament, in order to be able to decide whether or not he will allow new elections, by dissolving the German Parliament. Also, the CDU and CSU are facing opposition from their potential coalition partner, the Free Democrats [FDP], over their highly unpopular proposal to increase sales taxes. The FDP has announced that they will NOT support such a tax increase.

The Catholic Church and The Philippines

The Associated Press reported on July 10, 2005, about interesting events in The Philippines, and the POLITICAL role of the Roman Catholic Church in the process. The article stated:

“The Philippines’ Roman Catholic bishops, who have played a major role in toppling two presidents, gave lukewarm support Sunday to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as she faced calls to resign over an election scandal. The long-awaited statement by the nation’s Catholic Bishops Conference may ease the pressure on Arroyo, who looked increasingly isolated after 10 Cabinet members quit Friday and urged her to step down… The bishops in the predominantly Roman Catholic country played a key role in the 1986 ‘people power’ revolution that ousted dictator Ferdinand Marcos and the 2001 repeat which forced out Arroyo’s predecessor, Joseph Estrada… As the influential Catholic leaders debated what position to take, Arroyo went on a new charm offensive, praying in church, strolling along a Manila Bay promenade, holding babies and chatting with fishermen during a rare public appearance.”

Let us read the Scripture in context, by quoting John 2:18-22:

“(18) So the Jews answered and said to Him, ‘What sign do You show to us, since you do these things?’ (19) Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’ (20) Then the Jews said, ‘It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?’ (21) But He was speaking of the temple of His body. (22) Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said.”

There is no reason to believe that the above-cited translation is incorrect. However, we must understand, in light of the other Biblical evidence, what this passage does and does not say. Some use this passage to teach that Christ rose Himself up FROM THE DEAD. They claim that Christ, the Son of God, never died, but that only His “human mantle” did. They teach that the Son of God was the second member of an immortal and unalterable Trinity, and that He therefore could not have died. They postulate that Christ–the Son of God–raised up the human mortal Jesus. This ABOMINABLE HERESY is nowhere taught in the Bible! The Bible makes very clear that God is NOT a TRINITY; that Jesus Christ was the Son of God; and that HE DIED (For more information, please read our free booklet, “Is God a Trinity?”). It was God the Father who raised the DEAD Christ FROM THE DEAD.

For instance, Galatians 1:1 states: “Paul, an apostle (not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God THE FATHER, who raised HIM from the dead)…”

When Christ died and was brought back to life shortly thereafter as an immortal spirit being, God the Father CHANGED Christ’s physical body (which had not yet decayed) into a spirit body. That is why Christ, after His resurrection, could go through closed doors (John 20:19), and it is also why He could disappear after He had materialized Himself in a bodily, albeit different form (Mark 16:12; Luke 24:13-16, 31). In fact, when Christ returns, His disciples will be resurrected to immortal SPIRIT beings, and those who will still be alive at that time will be CHANGED to immortal SPIRIT beings (compare 1 Thessalonians 4:17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52).

After three days and three nights in the grave, God the Father brought the DEAD Christ back to life. Christ got up, and at THAT moment, He fulfilled the prophecy that He had given to the Jews in John 2:19: He raised up His BODY. In other words, He was lying on the ground in the tomb (John 19:40-42), but when He received immortal life from God the Father, He got up from the ground. The word for “raise up” (in Greek, “egeiro”), as used in John 2:19, is used many times to describe someone who simply STANDS UP. It is used in Mark 1:31; 9:27, and in Acts 3:7, as well as in James 5:15. In all of those cases, sick people stood up from their sick bed. God “raises or lifts” them up by giving them the power or strength to stand or to get up.

John 2:18-22 does not teach that Christ raised Himself up FROM THE DEAD. Rather, it teaches that after God the Father resurrected Him from the dead, Christ raised up the temple of His BODY, by getting up.

For more information on Christ’s death and resurrection, and the fact that He was indeed three days and three nights in the tomb, as He said He would be, please read our free book, “Jesus Christ–A Great Mystery.”

A new member letter has been written by Dave Harris. It was sent out on Wednesday. The letter discusses the incredible purpose of our calling.

A new StandingWatch program was recorded and placed on the Web. Its title is: Noisy Neighbors.

An article was submitted to the Journal, as follows:

The Church of the Eternal God (CEG) recently concluded its first Public Bible Lecture in Arcadia, California. Mr. Norbert Link spoke to 32 people on the subject, “Europe is Uniting — What Does This Mean To You?”

It was very exciting to be dealing with people directly after having put most of CEG’s efforts into other mediums, noted one attendee.

More lectures are being planned around the U.S. as finances permit. Until then, CEG is making CDs available of the initial address. Also made available on a CD are current StandingWatch programs, addressing diverse topics, such as, life after death, the resurrection, peacemaking, attitude, hope, Christ’s return, the Church, and accountability. In addition, CEG’s new booklet, “Should You Fight in War?” is ready for distribution. As usual, all of these are free for the asking. Simply send an email to info@eternalgod.org, or write to:

Church of the Eternal God
PO Box 270519
San Diego, CA 92198

Shine Bright!

by Shana Rank (31)

I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to be a light in this dark world. The analogy of letting our light shine bright in relation to God’s perfect outpouring character is exciting, and the only type of character I wish to imitate. Since I must strive to be an excellent example to those around me, what kind of light should I be?

Possible scenarios:

Candlelight: This type of light is sufficient in limited situations. Often times candle light is easily extinguished by wind or other outside forces. Candlelight could also be described as timid and shy when compared to the brightness of other light. Do I want to be a weak light?

Fluorescent light: This type of light has endurance; unfortunately, the quality of light is poor in comparison to natural light. Fluorescent bulbs also exhibit symptoms like flickering and buzzing which can be very unpleasant. Do I want to be an inconsistent light?

Flash bulb: This type of light is especially effective at nighttime or for poorly lit areas. The effect a bright flash has on the pupil can be likened to the first impression we have on those with whom we come in contact. Is my light short and intense, or will my light have a lasting impression?

Sunlight: This type of light is the brightest light known to man. So bright that it can cause blindness for those that gaze too long. Sunlight is able to penetrate the darkest places imaginable; this is also how I think about the perfect Spirit of God the Father and Jesus Christ. God is also described in the Bible as being light–with no darkness in Him. Can I be the brightest light possible? With God’s help, yes!

I know I would like to shine bright like the sun. Which type of light would you like to be?

On Saturday, July 9, 2005, Edwin Pope will be giving the sermon, titled, “We Must Conquer Pride and Vanity.”

The services can be heard at www.cognetservices.org at 12:30 pm Pacific Time (which is 2:30 pm Central Time). Just click on Connect to Live Stream.

What do you pray about–little or much?

In the Bible, we find examples of all kinds of requests made to God. People prayed for themselves, for their loved ones, for their nation and, yes, even for their enemies.

Jesus Christ taught His disciples: “‘Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you'” (John 16:23). We can understand from this that what we ask for should be in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ, because we are asking in His name!

If we aren’t careful, though, we may limit ourselves–we simply may not go far enough in our prayers. There is a type of an example of this. The prophet Elisha, who was on his deathbed, told Joash to do something that would have meant the removal of the enemy nation of Syria: “Then he said, ‘Take the arrows’; so he took them. And he said to the king of Israel, ‘Strike the ground’; so he struck three times, and stopped” (2 Kings 13:18).

However, the king failed to zealously continue to do what he should have done: “And the man of God was angry with him, and said, ‘You should have struck five or six times; then you would have struck Syria till you had destroyed it! But now you will strike Syria only three times'” (verse 19).

Do we stop short in our prayers? We have this instruction from Jesus: “‘So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you'” (Luke 11:9).

James addresses the problem in this way: “…you do not have because you do not ask” (4:2). James adds this: “You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures” (4:3).

So, what should we pray about? On the one hand, we are taught to be bold and filled with faith when we appear before God in prayer, while, on the other hand, we are cautioned to ask according to God’s will!

The answer is to look to the examples in God’s Word. We see requests made and answers given: the dead were restored to life and the sick healed; individuals and nations were delivered in times of great trials; and those who turned to God in repentance through prayer and obedience received the gift of God’s Holy Spirit–becoming the begotten children of God and destined to receive eternal life!

Jesus prayed fervently and often about events in His own life as well as for those of us who now follow Him (Read His prayer in John 17–specifically verse 20). He asked, and He asked for a lot–and God answered Him! He is our example, so, go ahead, and ASK!

Internet Under U.S. Control

The following article, which was written by Kieren McCarthy, was published on July 1, 2005, on the Internet, titled, “Bush administration annexes internet.” The article pointed out:

“An extraordinary statement by the US government has sent shockwaves around the internet world and thrown the future of the network into doubt. In a worrying U-turn, the US Department of Commerce (DoC) has made it clear it intends to retain control of the internet’s root servers indefinitely. It was due to relinquish that control in September 2006, when its contract with overseeing body ICANN ended. The decision – something that people have long feared may happen – will not only make large parts of the world furious but also puts ICANN in a very difficult position. The organisation has slowly been expanding out of its California base in an effort to become an international body with overall responsibility for the internet.”

The article continued:

“Clearly the internet has entered the Bush administration’s vision and the resulting DoC statement – which boldly tells the rest of the world that the US will continue to run the Internet and everyone will just have to lump it – is very in keeping with how the US government is currently run. The big question now is whether the rest of the world will be cowed… The vision of a US-controlled internet infrastructure will be anathema to large parts of the world however and it is a demonstration of the US administration’s failure to think globally that it doesn’t recognise that there is surprisingly little preventing other parts of the world from creating a second Internet outside of US control. An already fractious situation has just got more difficult.”

U.S. Supreme Court’s Confusing Decisions!

The American Bar Association (ABA) Journal and Report stated in its article, “TWO TABLETS DON’T SOLVE LAWYERS’ HEADACHES,” dated July 1, 2005:

“Displaying the Ten Commandments on government property might violate the First Amendment’s establishment clause. Or it might not. After the U.S. Supreme Court’s two rulings on the topic this week–which produced 10 separate opinions between them–lawyers on both sides of the divisive issue agree on one thing: They are as confused as ever. And the battles over display of the symbols around the country are likely to continue, lawyers say, with attorneys for each side choosing one of the two cases to back them up… The decisions… have lawyers scratching their heads… Some suspect that the rulings will create new circuit splits regarding the establishment clause… And there’s likely to be confusion involving daily activities, says Julie Underwood, general counsel of the National School Boards Association. In an amicus brief submitted in the McCreary case, the group asked the court to clarify establishment clause jurisdiction. ‘In the last 30 years, 100 opinions have been written on religion in public schools, and it’s very confusing,’ [Underwood] adds. ‘There are multiple tests, and nobody really knows which is the prevailing test, or how to apply it.'”

The Waste of U.S. Taxpayers’ Money

On July 4, 2005, the national and international press reported, mostly approvingly, about an incredible example of how the money of U.S. taxpayers is being wasted. We are referring to the hit of a comet by a NASA probe, on America’s Independence Day, July 4, 2005.

The Associated Press reported: “NASA scientists used a space probe to chase down a speeding comet 83 million miles away and slammed it into the frozen ball of dirty ice and debris.”

How much did this “spectacle” cost the U.S. tax payers?

AFP clarified that the project cost 333 million dollars (!), or 275 million Euro. And WHY was this money spent? What was hoped to be accomplished with this collision? Was the goal to see how comets or meteorites, which might be on a collision course with earth, could be destroyed, or their course altered, preventing a deep impact with earth?

FAR FROM IT.

Here is the incredible reason for this WASTE of money, as explained by The Associated Press:

“[It was] a mission to learn how the solar system was formed… The reason scientists are so excited is that comets circling the Sun, which are numbered in billions, are seen as leftovers from a massive cloud of gas and dust that condensed to form the Sun and planets about 4.6 billion years ago.Their geological and chemical structures could thus contain important clues to the nature of the Universe and how it was formed, including Earth.”

If man, including “educated” scientists, would only read and believe the Bible, all these endeavors would be avoided. We ARE told, in Genesis 1:1 and in many other Scriptures, how the earth and the universe were formed, and by WHOM! Only, most of the scientific world has REJECTED Godly revelation, and has chosen instead to validate the ungodly theory of evolution, by producing “proof,” through experimentation, exploration and “observation,” how the universe and the earth came into existence by mere time and chance — irrespective of a godly power. And while millions of dollars are being WASTED in this idle pursuit, millions of people DIE here on earth because of famine, malnutrition, lack of medication, etc. This is indeed a terrible indictment against man’s INCAPABILITY to rule on this planet. THANKS BE TO GOD that He will send His Son Jesus Christ back to this earth to TAKE OVER rulership and to bring peace and justice to this planet. LET US PRAY that that day will arrive soon!

France vs. Britain

As Reuters reported on July 5, 2005, “French President Jacques Chirac cracked jokes to Russian and German leaders about bad British food and mad cow disease, a Paris daily said on Monday, in comments that could further strain Anglo-French relations… Relations between France and Britain were already at a low point, with British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Chirac blaming each other for the failure of June talks on the European Union’s long-term budget talks. Blair, who took over the EU presidency last week, has particularly irked Paris with his drive to cut EU farm subsidies that mainly benefit France… The race between Paris and London to host the 2012 Olympic Games is further testing relations. Blair wrote in the Paris-based International Herald Tribune newspaper on Monday that London was the ‘perfect venue’ for the games. In Singapore, where the choice of venue will be announced on Wednesday, Anglo-French tensions threatened to boil over on Monday after a delegate linked to London’s bid said the Stade de France was not ideal for athletics.”

On July 6, 2005, the Associated Press reported about this telling announcement from Singapore:

“Britain vs. France. Blair vs. Chirac. Two historic rival cities convinced they were long overdue. London prevailed–upsetting Paris to secure the 2012 Olympics… Paris had been the front-runner throughout the campaign, but London picked up momentum in the late stages with strong support from Prime Minister Tony Blair… Blair… spent two days lobbying in Singapore this week… But not even a personal appearance in Singapore by French President Jacques Chirac could secure victory… The [British tabloid] Sun said Chirac also could have damaged his country’s Olympic bid by criticizing food from Finland in [addition to criticizing food from England].”

Euro Falling

The Euro has reached its lowest level in eleven months, with a value of 1.19 US dollars. Six months ago, the exchange rate was 1.37 US dollars. Reasons for the decline of the Euro are the strong U.S. dollar and the Japanese yen, the rise of interest by the US national bank, as well as the present uncertainty of the EU unification. Bild Online reminded the readership, however, that the Euro was MUCH lower in October of 2000: At that time, 1 US dollar had the value of only 0.83 Euros.

Bird Flu at Critical Stage

The Scotsman reported on July 5, 2005, that “Asia’s bird flu outbreak is at a critical stage where it could easily become a human pandemic, health experts warned yesterday, urging mass poultry vaccinations to prevent a crisis… Cases of human infection have been reported in Vietnam, with others likely in Cambodia and Indonesia, while fears are growing that infected migratory birds in China could spread the virus to India and Pakistan… The flu, which has killed 54 people in Asia, currently appears to spread to people only when they come into close contact with sick poultry. But medical experts fear that the H5N1 bird flu strain could mutate into a form that easily passes between people and trigger a global pandemic because people have developed no resistance to the strain.”

Israel Seeks Germany’s Help

As Der Spiegel reported on June 29, 2005, “Israeli politicians ask Germany for assistance” in their struggle with Iran. The magazine reported that Israel views Germany’s Foreign Minister, Joschka Fischer, as “one of [Israel’s] VERY FEW friends in Europe.” The magazine also warned that if Europe or other powers should be unsuccessful to persuade Iran from discontinuing their nuclear programs, Israel might very well decide to “do it alone.” The readership was reminded that Israel attacked a nuclear power plant in Iraq in 1981, to prevent the building of nuclear weapons. At that time, the Begin-doctrine was created, permitting Israel to strike first in a “preemptive war.”

What To Do About China?

In a special report of U.S. News and World Report, which was published on or about June 20, 2005, the magazine wrote:

“China is teaching the West something new. Its economy, growing at 9 percent per year, will most likely become the second largest in the world by 2020, behind only the United States… The rise of China could… make Washington ‘increasingly irrelevant’… China now exports to the United States some $160 billion more than it takes in… A U.S. -China cold war would be costly, dangerous, and distracting, robbing attention and resources from pressing internal and global challenges.”

The article continued to warn that the USA might get involved or drawn into a military conflict, related to North Korea and Taiwan. The article stated:

“The United States should… do more to change China’s stance: by offering North Korea some attractive incentives to give up its nuclear materials and weapons… China needs to be reminded not to use force to unify the country [of Taiwan]. Neither China nor Taiwan should count on Washington standing aside if they change the status quo.”

What IF Washington were to get involved in a military conflict in that region of the world? The consequences would appear to be disastrous.

Germany In Turmoil

As Deutsche Welle reported on July 1, 2005, “When the German parliament defeated the confidence vote brought by Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder on Friday, it set in motion a procedure designed to end in a general election in the fall.” Schroeder WANTED the parliament to defeat the confidence vote, as he refuses to resign. As the article explained:

“Schroeder had wanted the vote to be defeated in order to trigger new elections 12 months ahead of schedule and had instructed members of his Social Democratic Party (SPD) to abstain in the vote in the Bundestag, or lower house of parliament.”

His hope is that German “President Horst Koehler… [will] officially recognize the lack of a majority and dissolve the Bundestag” by July 22.

BUT, it is not altogether clear whether President Koehler CAN, legally, dissolve the German Bundestag. The article explained:

“Koehler has not yet revealed what his intentions are, saying only that he would study the situation after the vote… However the decision is far from certain. Some of the smaller political parties and a handful of coalition deputies have vowed to mount a federal court challenge against bringing the poll forward.”

It is interesting to realize, in this context, that Koehler refused to sign the ratification of the EU Constitution by the German Parliament, as a case is pending before the German Federal Court, challenging the legal procedure. He declared that he will await the outcome of that decision.

Deutsche Welle continued: “If the Bundestag is dissolved, Koehler must call an election to take place within 60 days. However the election can only take place on a holiday or a Sunday. The election cannot take place during the school summer holidays, which vary according to the regional states — in Bavaria for example they do not end until September 12. Most observers agree that the date of September 18 is the most likely for an election.”

All of the German major parties WANT new elections. But many law professors and legal experts feel that Koehler would violate the German Constitution if he were to dissolve the Bundestag. Their most convincing argument is that Koehler could only do so, IF the government was unable to function. However, this is doubtful as the government just enacted several laws prior to the defeat of the vote of confidence. If Schroeder is perceived as having used the Bundestag by means of a coup, a sham or a farce, Koehler could not legally dissolve it, according to many legal commentators.

Der Spiegel published an article, dated June 29, titled, “Why Koehler MUST Say No.” The international press mainly condemned Schroeder’s maneuver. However, the Russian press praised him as an honest man of principle.

IF Germany will have new elections in September, it appears that the leader of the CDU, Angela Merkel, will become the new chancellor, if CDU and its potential coalition party, FDP, get the absolute majority. However, even this is not certain. At this point, CDU and FDP are engaged in a war of words about whether or not to increase certain taxes. And according to some recent polls, although CDU and FDP would get 51% of the votes, if there were elections today, Schroeder is much more popular than Merkel. Further, Germany’s Foreign Minister and Schroeder’s coalition partner, Joschka Fischer, is still the most popular politician in Germany. And then there is Edmund Stoiber, Minister President of the Bavarian CSU and coalition partner of the CDU, who has been known for saying wrong things at wrong times.

The events in Germany on the political front are exciting. We will keep our readers updated about the developments.

London Under Attack

As The Associated Press reported on July 7, 2005, “Four blasts rocked the London subway and tore open a packed double-decker bus during the morning rush hour Thursday, sending bloodied victims fleeing in the worst attack on London since World War II. Three U.S. law enforcement officials said at least 40 people were killed and London hospitals reported more than 350 wounded in the terror attacks. Prime Minister Tony Blair called the attacks ‘barbaric’ and said they were clearly designed to coincide with the G-8 summit opening in Gleneagles, Scotland. [The blasts completely overshadowed Thursday’s main topic at the summit — efforts to tackle global warming. Especially Great Britain and the United States differ sharply on the issue of how to deal with the global warming problem.] They also came a day after London won the bid to host the 2012 Olympics.”

The article continued:

“Bush warned Americans to be ‘extra vigilant’ as they head to work after the deadly explosions in London… Much of Europe also went on alert. Italy’s airports raised alert levels to a maximum. The Czech Republic, Hungary, Russia, the Netherlands, France and Spain also were among those announcing beefed-up security at shopping centers, airports, railways and subways… A group calling itself ‘The Secret Organization of al-Qaida in Europe’ posted a claim of responsibility, saying the blasts were in retaliation for Britain’s involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan. The statement also threatened attacks in Italy and Denmark…

“European stocks dropped sharply after the blasts, with exchanges in London, Paris and Germany all down about 2 percent. Insurance and travel-related stocks were hit hard, and the British pound also fell. Gold, traditionally seen as a safe haven, rose. The explosions also unnerved traders on Wall Street, sending stocks down sharply in morning trading.”

Notice what exactly John said in Matthew 3:11: “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me … will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”

As a part of his ministry, John was baptizing “with water unto repentance” (verse 11). He required that we must “bear fruits worthy of repentance” (verse 8). In comparison, Christ would be coming to also baptize, not just unto repentance, but also, with the Holy Spirit and with fire!

We, of course, are all very familiar with the first part of that statement John had made, in reference to the baptism Christ would bring. One receives the Holy Spirit after repentance, the belief in Christ’s sacrifice, and being baptized with water. In the process of baptism, prior to being submerged under water, one pronounces his or her repentance of past sins, and one’s belief in Christ’s sacrifice and one’s acceptance of Christ as his or her personal Savior. Following the actual submersion under water and being brought out of that grave of water, which event pictures the washing away of all our past sins, the ministers of God lay hands upon the person being baptized and he or she receives God’s Holy Spirit.

But what was John saying when he stated that Christ would also be baptizing with fire?

The fire John was speaking of is perhaps noted in verse 12 of Matthew, chapter 3, when John speaks of an “unquenchable fire.” With this fire, John says that Christ will “burn up the chaff.” What is this “unquenchable fire” and is it something to be desired?

Malachi 4:1-3 also describes this fire and its result. Malachi speaks of this event in verse 1: ‘For behold, the day is coming, Burning like an oven, And all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly will be stubble. And the day which is coming shall burn them up,’ Says the Lord of hosts, ‘That will leave them neither root nor branch.'” In verse 3, Malachi continues to quote the Lord, where He is quoted as saying “‘You shall trample the wicked, For they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet On the day that I do this…'” Christ is speaking of the same event in Revelation 20:14-15, which describes the second death of all who do not enter the Kingdom of God!

There is, however, a second possibility which John might have intended, when speaking of the “baptism with fire.”

Some ministers in the Church have referred to this Scripture from time to time in describing the TRIALS true Christians suffer through, during this lifetime, as they seek to live according to the Way to which they have been called.

Christ makes an interesting statement in Mark 9:49. In the previous verses of this chapter Christ was speaking of how one must live to be able to enter the Kingdom of God, rather than suffering the pain of hell fire, ”(verse 48)… ‘where… the fire is not quenched.’ (verse 49) ‘For everyone will be seasoned with fire, and every sacrifice will be seasoned with salt.'”

The fire Christ speaks of in this verse is the fire of all the trials one goes through as he or she continually seeks to live God’s Way of life. Of course, our lives are to become living sacrifices in this Way of our calling. If one does not eventually become seasoned with God’s Way of life, he or she will be seasoned with the fire of Gehenna.

Salt, of course, has a preserving quality about it. We are to develop this preserving quality within our lives, whereby we will be an influence for peace and for good while living in this world.

Paul says to the Church 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.”

Christ Himself had to go through serious “fiery” trials — including His suffering and death on the cross. Christ said that He came to bring fire or division on the earth (Luke 12:49, 51-53). He continued that He Himself had to be baptized with a baptism, and that He was distressed until it was accomplished (compare Luke 12:50; Mark 10:38). He referred to His fiery trial as a “baptism,” which His disciples had to also experience (Mark 10: 39).

Some outside the Church claim that the “baptism with fire” must accompany the baptism with the Holy Spirit, and that the Holy Spirit is not given, unless supernatural events accompany the baptism. They refer, as proof, to the events described in Acts 2, when “divided tongues, as of fire, sat upon” the disciples (verse 3). However, Acts 2 describes a very unique circumstance, which was never repeated in the recorded history of the Church (with the possible, but not very likely exception of the baptism of Cornelius and other Gentiles, as recorded in Acts 10; compare Acts 11:15). NONE of the other recorded baptisms with the Holy Spirit were accompanied by supernatural flames of fire being placed on the disciples’ heads. John the Baptist was certainly NOT talking about these unique events, as described in Acts 2 (and possibly in Acts 10), when speaking of the “baptism with fire.”

In conclusion, the baptism with fire, mentioned by John, might very well refer to the second and final death in Gehenna fire. It might also include fiery trials which we must go through in this life, to AVOID that second and final death.

We have entered the final review cycle for our new booklet on the Ezekiel warning message.

A new StandingWatch program has been recorded on Thursday and will be posted on the Web soon. It’s title is: “Why the Terror in London?”

The German translation of our booklet, “The Keys To Happy Marriages and Families,” has been finalized and can be found on the Web.

Norbert and Johanna Link, as well as Norbert’s mother and Michael, are planning to be in Colorado for the Sabbath of July 16. Mr. Link is scheduled to give the sermon that day. If anyone would like to attend services in Colorado and needs further information as to the time and place, please contact us.

On Saturday, July 2, 2005, Dave Harris will be giving the sermon, titled, “Repent!”

The services can be heard at www.cognetservices.org at 12:30 pm Pacific Time (which is 2:30 pm Central Time). Just click on Connect to Live Stream.

Almost exactly four years ago, on July 2, 2001, we filed the Articles of Incorporation of the Church of the Eternal God (CEG) with the Secretary of State of California, which were subsequently approved on July 5, 2001. Following this, we applied for and received federal and state tax exempt status.

There were mainly two major factors forcing us to establish CEG in the United States, and to affiliate with the Global Church of God in the United Kingdom (Global) and the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship in Canada (CGCF): (1) Our conviction to have to provide a spiritual haven for those members, co-workers and others who felt that they had no spiritual place to go; and (2) Our conviction that we must continue to preach, as much as God allows and wants us to, the gospel or good news of the soon-coming Kingdom of God, to be established here on earth by the return of Jesus Christ, as the KING of kings, and the LORD of lords.

We understood that spiritually providing for the Church or “feeding the flock” includes GROWING in the knowledge of Jesus Christ, and that BOLDLY and STRONGLY preaching the gospel requires an unwavering COMMITMENT by all of us to CONTRIBUTE to the WORK of the LIVING God, as much as possible, in many different ways, as decreed by God (compare 1 Corinthians 12:12-30).

Sadly, not all who joined with us in the effort to FULFILL God’s two-fold Commission to His end-time Church (of preaching the gospel and feeding the flock) are still with us. Some left us, or we had to disassociate from them, because they simply did not have the same spirit or mindset, which we must have if we want to see that our Church organizations succeed, to the glory and honor of God!

I’m reminded of Gideon’s army, as recorded in the Book of Judges. The Midianites, the Amalakites, and the people of the East were oppressing Israel. God appointed Gideon to free Israel from this foreign occupation. Gideon doubted that he would be able to accomplish such a great task, so God had to prove to him through supernatural signs that He was with him. Still, Gideon needed help. He sent messengers to the people, and since they had undoubtedly heard about the mighty deeds which God had already done through Gideon, many came to join him (compare Judges 6:28-35). But they were clearly not all of the same conviction, and they did not have the same dedication to God’s cause. God had to reduce Gideon’s army. First, Gideon, in following God’s command, sent those home who were fearful and afraid (Judges 7:2-3). Twenty-two thousand (!) of his army returned. Subsequently, God sent 9,700 soldiers home who got on their knees to drink. Only 300 men, who lapped from the water with their tongues, as dogs lap, were allowed to stay (verses 5-7). They showed a higher degree of military readiness, being watchful and alert, as they “evidently… used their hands to bring the water to their mouths while standing upright, just as a dog uses his tongue to bring water to his mouth… in contrast to those who knelt” (Ryrie Study Bible).

God separated those who were truly committed to His cause from those who were not, either because they were afraid to fight boldly for God, or because they did not see the need to be dedicated and committed at all times. And so, we have seen that some who began with us, or who joined us later, have left us. I’m sure that they thought they had good reasons to leave, but the fact remains that they are no longer part of Gideon’s army, to stay within the picture. But the commitment of others did not waver. God has also added, and He WILL be adding, new people, and God has been blessing our combined efforts.

Through the grace and power of God, much has been accomplished. You are reading the 200th edition of our weekly Update. We have posted literally hundreds of sermons, as well as over 50 StandingWatch programs, on one of our four Websites. We have published and posted on our Websites 18 booklets in the English language, and several booklets and articles in the French and German languages. We have sent out several thousand audio sermon tapes.

All of this is a TEAM effort. And we, the ministry of CEG, Global and CGCF, are tremendously thankful for our dedicated team. Some of those who help us on a constant time-consuming basis (whether it is as editorial reviewers and the graphic designer of our booklets; regular contributors to and writers for our weekly updates, including our younger people; copying and sending out the weekly audio tapes; as well as our webmaster) are listed, by name, in our written literature and on our Websites–but there are so many more we could name. God knows who they are!

There are those who are members of our technical team, competently helping us with the design of our Websites and many other technically related issues. There are those who assist us diligently before, during, and after Church services with technical issues, including the live broadcast of our services, the recording of our sermons, and the uploading of our sermons to the Web. Some assist with opening and closing prayers, songleading, delivering sermonettes and split-sermons, special music and choir. There are those who help us maintaining and updating our Websites. Others finalize and send out our updates via email. Still others prepare and send out our hard-copy mail (including booklets, member letters and updates). There are those who are involved in producing video recordings of our sermons for scattered groups of brethren. There are those who help us with the translation of our English literature into other languages. There are our young members whom God has begun to prepare and use more and more powerfully for important tasks to come. And last, but not least, there are our ministerial wives who have been helping all of us tirelessly in many ways, including giving us much encouragement. Truly, God has given us in the ministry helpers comparable to us (compare Genesis 2:20), or, to say it, as does the New Revised Standard Version, helpers as our partners.

We could not have accomplished much, if anything, if it had not been for the true dedication of God’s people to God’s cause. That is why we would like to take the opportunity to thank all of you for your sincere loyalty, help, tireless efforts, financial contributions and, most importantly, your continued constant prayers that God would send dedicated, convicted helpers into the harvest, because the harvest is indeed plentiful, but sincere selfless laborers are few (Matthew 9:37-38).

In return, we pray to God for His abundant blessings for your efforts in His Work, and for your personal lives. Even though we cannot adequately thank you for your dedication, we would like to cite to you the unshakable promise of the Head of this Church, Jesus Christ, in Revelation 22:12: “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.”

Religious Crisis in Europe

As the Associated Press reported on June 21, 2005, “Pope Benedict XVI rails against Europe in his first book published since becoming pope, chastising a culture that he says excludes God from life and allows innocent lives – the unborn – to be taken from God through legalized abortion.”

The article continued:

“Ratzinger takes as a starting point the decision of European Union leaders to exclude a reference to Europe’s Christian roots from the preamble of the proposed EU constitution, whose future remains uncertain following its rejection by French and Dutch voters in recent referendums. The Vatican had campaigned to have the reference included, part of its attempts to stem what it sees as a continent of increasingly empty churches that is often hostile to religion. ‘Europe has developed a culture which, in a way never before known to humanity, excludes God from public conscience, either by being denied or by judging his existence to be uncertain and thus belonging to subjective choices, something irrelevant for public life,’ Benedict writes. He dismisses arguments that inclusion of the reference would have offended Jews and Muslims, saying they are more offended by Europe’s attempt to deny a historic fact.

“‘It’s not the mention of God that offends the followers of other religions, but precisely the attempt to build a human community absolutely without God,’ he writes. He says Europe needs more people like St. Benedict of Norcia, the fifth and sixth century monk who is a patron saint of Europe. The Benedictine order that followed his teachings became the main guardian of learning and literature in Western Europe during the dark centuries that followed the fall of the Roman Empire.

“Looking at current culture in Europe, Ratzinger acknowledges it would be easy to resign oneself to the fact that abortion is a legal right in much of Europe. But he concludes that there is no such thing as a ‘little homicide’ and that when man loses the respect for life, ‘inevitably he ends by losing his own identity.'”

Middle Eastern Crisis

The Washington Post reported on June 21, 2005:

“A rare meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas ended bitterly Tuesday… [T]he leaders clashed over Abbas’s efforts to confront such militant groups as Hamas and Islamic Jihad, the release of additional Palestinians from Israeli jails and the reopening of the Gaza airport that Palestinians see as key to the future of the local economy after the pullout… The meeting Tuesday was meant to serve as an opportunity for the two leaders to better coordinate security and economic preparations for the Israeli withdrawal from all 21 settlements in Gaza and four in the West Bank.”

The European Crisis

As Reuters reported on June 22, 2005, “Britain will try to change the European Union’s agenda toward economic reform and away from farm subsidies when it takes the EU chair on July 1, Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said on Wednesday. He was speaking amid continuing recrimination over the failure of a summit last week to agree on a long term budget for the 25-nation bloc… Straw said he believed Britain could heal the EU’s rifts during its six months in the presidency, but diplomats said lectures about British economic success compared to other countries was unlikely to calm tempers.”

In a related article, The Associated Press wrote on June 21, 2005: “Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder said Tuesday that Europe must choose between two futures: one as a politically united continent able to hold its own in a globalized economy and the other as an enfeebled trading bloc. In his first major speech since the collapse of talks late last week at a European Union summit, Schroeder said disagreement about Europe’s future–not its stricken constitution or budget–was at the heart of the dispute. ‘The core question is: which Europe do we want? Do we want a united Europe capable of acting, a real political union … or do we want to limit ourselves to being a large free-trade zone?’ Schroeder said… ‘I’m convinced … we need a political union. Only a political union is able to practice solidarity,’ Schroeder said.”

The EUobserver added in its article, which was published on June 23:

“Outgoing president of the EU Jean-Claude Juncker launched a blistering attack on the British prime minister laying the blame squarely at Tony Blair’s door for last week’s summit failure… Mr Juncker accused Mr Blair of using false arguments about the scale of farming subsidies and being misleading about the presidency’s proposals to try and forge a deal… Mr Juncker’s words, for which he got a standing ovation by MEPs, bring to a head an extraordinary few days of sniping between London on the one side and Paris, Berlin and Luxembourg on the other… Many believe that all London wants from the bloc is a convenient free-trade zone and will be out to make life difficult for the UK prime minister when he takes over the EU helm on 1 July.”

The United Press International speculated in an article, which was published on June 20, whether Europe could ever emerge as a political and military superpower. The author, Professor Mark Katz, stated:

“It may seem impossible, then, for an EU unwilling to engage in military intervention to become a superpower equal to the United States. But this is not necessarily the case. Indeed, it is possible the EU, despite its unwillingness to use force, could not only equal the United States as a superpower, but even replace it as the hegemonic power most able to shape the international order. The EU has the potential for doing this because it has an asset neither the United States nor any other country (or group of countries) possesses: the desire on the part of other countries to join it. We have seen already how much the countries of Central and Eastern Europe have been willing to transform themselves in order to be admitted to the EU. If the EU expressed its willingness to admit any and all countries wishing to join that meet its admission standards, it would unleash an extraordinary demand for political and economic reform throughout the world.”

In addition, even though the EU might presently express a reluctance to use military force, Biblical prophecy clearly reveals that this will change.

Crisis Between USA and Italy

As The Associated Press reported on June 24, 2005, “An Italian judge on Friday ordered the arrests of 13 CIA officers for secretly transporting a Muslim preacher from Italy to Egypt as part of U.S. anti-terrorism efforts–a rare public objection to the practice by a close American ally… Italian-U.S. relations were strained after American soldiers killed an Italian intelligence agent near Baghdad airport in March. He was escorting a kidnapped Italian journalist after he had secured her release from Iraqi captors. Germano Dottori, a political analyst at the Center for Strategic Studies in Rome, said it is not unusual for intelligence agencies to have squabbles with allied countries but that he could not recall prosecutors directly involved in investigating or apprehending agents… ‘At some point the Americans will begin to think they can’t trust the Italians,’ Dottori said.”

Crisis Between USA and Europe

As the EUobserver reported on June 24, 2005, “Anti-Americanism in Europe, provoked by the Iraqi war in 2003, remains high… a new survey has shown… Europeans want more autonomy and independence from the US, and a majority of French, German and Spaniards think the US does not take into consideration other countries’ interests… 85 percent of the French believe it would be good if the EU or another country emerged as a military rival to the US… In Spain, 60 percent of those questioned said Mr Bush’s re-election made them feel less favourable to the US, compared to 77 percent in Germany, 74 percent in France, and 62 percent in the UK.”

Crisis Between USA and Iran

The Economist reported on June 25, 2005, about the victory of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, a hardline religious conservative, in Iran’s presidential election. The publication stated: “Iran looks like [it is] turning its back on reform–and perhaps on the outside world. WAS it a backlash by Iran’s devoutly Muslim poor against a corrupt elite? Or was it a massive fraud perpetrated on the people by the hardline clerics? Perhaps it was a bit of both… Mr Ahmadinejad insisted there was no need for any rapprochement with the “Great Satan”, as official Iranian demonology labels the superpower [of the United States]… Young Iranians have begun to enjoy greater freedom in such things as how they dress and how they mix with the opposite sex. This now looks likely to go into reverse under Mr Ahmadinejad… Thus the prospects look bleak for any sort of breakthrough in the issue that most interests the outside world–Iran’s apparent attempts to learn the techniques for making nuclear bombs… As for trying to get along with Uncle Sam, the president-elect said during his campaign that: ‘Relations with the United States are not a cure to our ills.'”

The Associated Press added on June 26:

“Iran President-elect Mahmoud Ahmadinejad vowed Sunday to pursue a peaceful nuclear program — an effort the United States maintains is really a cover for trying to build atomic bombs — and said his government will not be an extremist one. Ahmadinejad also said Iran did not need the United States to help it become more self-reliant. His comments came as Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld criticized Friday’s vote, in which the ultraconservative former Tehran mayor steamrolled former President Ayatollah Hashemi Rafsanjani, as a ‘mock election.’ Rumsfeld said more than 1,000 potential candidates — including all women — were disqualified from running by the country’s hard-line Guardian Council. ‘He is no friend of democracy,’ Rumsfeld said.”

Crisis Between USA and China?

As The Washington Times reported on June 26, 2005, “China is building its military forces faster than U.S. intelligence and military analysts expected, prompting fears that Beijing will attack Taiwan in the next two years, according to Pentagon officials. U.S. defense and intelligence officials say all the signs point in one troubling direction: Beijing then will be forced to go to war with the United States, which has vowed to defend Taiwan against a Chinese attack. China’s military buildup includes an array of new high-technology weapons, such as warships, submarines, missiles and a maneuverable warhead designed to defeat U.S. missile defenses… China’s economy has been growing at a rate of at least 10 percent for each of the past 10 years, providing the country’s military with the needed funds for modernization. The combination of a vibrant centralized economy, growing military and increasingly fervent nationalism has transformed China into what many defense officials view as a fascist state.”

Ten Commandments in Crisis?

The New York Sun reported on June 28, 2005, about the U.S. Supreme Court decision, okaying a display of the Ten Commandments on the grounds of the Texas State Capitol while disallowing their display in two county courthouses in Kentucky. The article pointed out:

“This aspect of the fight might well have come as a surprise to the actual authors of the First Amendment, which was a prohibition on Congress, not on the states… The policy virtues of such an approach are ‘the laboratory of the states.’ Bible belt states could post the Ten Commandments on every streetlamp, while more secular-leaning states, or those with larger populations of Buddhists and Hindus or atheists, could avoid public posting of the commandments. The drawbacks of such an approach are equally clear. The reason the 14th Amendment was passed after the Civil War was the realization that some freedoms, like the freedom from slavery, are so fundamentally American that they should not depend on what state one is in.”

The Washington Post added on June 28:

“The Supreme Court’s decisions yesterday on displays of the Ten Commandments on public property were not a model of clarity or judicial consensus. To resolve two cases, one from Texas and the other from Kentucky, the justices delivered 10 different opinions — one, we suppose, for each commandment…”

Here is the specific reference in question: “‘You shall bring from your dwellings two wave loaves of two-tenths of an ephah. They shall be of fine flour; they shall be baked with leaven. They are the firstfruits to the LORD'” (Leviticus 23:17). The vital key found in this Scripture that will lead to understanding what (or more specifically, who) is being represented by these two loaves appears in the last sentence: “‘They are the FIRSTFRUITS to the LORD.'”

As God introduced the observance of this Feast Day to the children of Israel, we note that several different names were used in explanation: “‘…the Feast of Harvest, the firstfruits of your labors which you have sown in the field'” (Exodus 23:16); “‘And You shall observe the Feast of Weeks, of the firstfruits of wheat harvests…'” (Exodus 34:22); “‘Also on the day of the firstfruits, when you bring a new grain offering to the LORD at your Feast of Weeks…'” (Numbers 28:26). (Compare, also, Deuteronomy 16:9-12.)

Following His resurrection, Jesus Christ carefully instructed His disciples “…not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father ‘which,’ He said, ‘you have heard from Me'” (Acts 1:4). Continuing in Acts 2:1-4, we read that this waiting period culminated on the Day of Pentecost–the transliterated Greek name for the Feast of Weeks, meaning fiftieth:

(1) “When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. (2) And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. (3) Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. (4) And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”

When the New Testament Church was founded, all Church members were Israelites. One of the two loaves in Leviticus 23 pictured, identified or foreshadowed–as part of the firstfruits–converted Israelites (including those few righteous people in Old Testament times, who had been called and converted by God). Acts 2 contains the record of a partial fulfillment of the meaning of Pentecost; however, consider, also, what Peter was inspired to say by way of explanation. He quoted from the prophet Joel (Compare Acts 2:17-21; Joel 2:28-32). Note, in particular, the broadly inclusive statement found in Acts 2:21: “‘And it shall come to pass That whoever calls on the name of the LORD Shall be saved.'”

As we continue to read this account in Acts 2, Peter preaches about repentance, baptism and the promise of God’s Holy Spirit. Verse 39 again opens up the scope of the opportunity that God is presenting: “‘For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.'”

Peter addressed “…all the house of Israel” (Acts 2:36) on this momentous Day of Pentecost, but God would soon send him to preach the same message of salvation to another representative group of people. The circumstances of this occurrence are found in Acts 10. Through remarkable revelations, God caused Peter to go to the house of Cornelius, a Gentile. Here is what Peter said: “Then Peter opened his mouth and said: ‘In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him'” (Acts 10:34-35). Peter continued to explain the message of salvation to those assembled, and “While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word” (Acts 10:44).

Note this reaction: “And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also” (Acts 10:45). However, this development was not readily accepted by those of the circumcision–that is, those of Israelite descent who were believers. We find that Peter carefully explained what had happened, and we find this statement in Acts 11:18: “When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, ‘Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.'”

The Bible reveals that God is not calling everyone, now! Rather, He is calling some to be firstfruits, and that includes those who are descendants of Israel and those who come from among Gentiles. These are being offered an opportunity for salvation in the first resurrection, and they are called firstfruits:

James 1:18: “Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures”; Romans 8:23: “…we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption [better: sonship], the redemption of our body”; Revelation 14:4: “These are the ones who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb.”

In Leviticus 23:17, speaking of the two loaves, it is said that “‘They are the firstfruits to the LORD.'” Again, in verse 20, the bread is called “‘…the bread of the firstfruits.'”

The second of the two loaves in Leviticus 23 refers, then, to the other part of the firstfruits–converted Gentiles.

We find in Luke’s account that Jesus specifically chose men during His lifetime on earth to be apostles (Compare Luke 6:13). Following His return to the Father, Jesus Christ continued to choose individuals to assist in building and administering the Church of God. Speaking to Ananias about the man called Saul (later named Paul), Jesus said, “‘…for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel'” (Acts 9:15). Later on, Paul makes this statement in explaining his own calling: “But on the contrary, when they saw that the gospel for the uncircumcised [Gentiles] had been committed to me, as the gospel for the circumcised [Israelites] was to Peter” (Galatians 2:7).

In this context, let us consider the remarkable statement found in Romans 15:16, Authorized Version: “That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost [Spirit].” In addition, other translations support this understanding of Paul’s testimony:

“…so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God” (NIV); “…so that gentiles might become an acceptable offering” (New Jerusalem Bible); “…to offer the Gentiles to him as an acceptable sacrifice” (Revised English Bible); “…so that the Gentiles, when offered before him, may be an acceptable sacrifice” (Century Translations in Modern English).

Speaking of the sacrifices associated with the Feast of Weeks, God says: “‘The priest shall wave them with the bread of the firstfruits as a wave offering before the LORD, with the two lambs. They shall be holy to the LORD for the priest'” (Leviticus 23:20).

Verse 22 of Leviticus 23 is, at first glance, seemingly out of place. However, this verse unlocks the understanding of the Gentile role in the promises that God made to Abraham and his descendants. Here is the verse: “‘When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not wholly reap the corners of your field when you reap, nor shall you gather any gleaning from your harvest. You shall leave them for the poor and for the stranger: I am the LORD your God.'”

The story of Ruth, the Moabitess and a Gentile, is part of God’s Word. You can read the very interesting details in this short book, but the particular events surrounding Ruth’s gleaning in the field of Boaz are of particular significance (Compare Ruth 1:22; 2:1-2). Ruth was the mother of Obed, who was the father of Jesse, who was the father of David and in the lineage of Jesus Christ! Through the provision of God’s law, this faithful Gentile woman was accepted as a part of God’s chosen people. It is interesting to note that Jews specifically read from the Book of Ruth on the Feast of Weeks (Shavuot).

Now consider another very revealing account regarding this concept of gleaning. When Jesus was asked by a woman from Canaan to heal her daughter, Jesus replied: “‘I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel'” (Matthew 15:24). Also, He said: “‘…It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs'” (verse 26). Note this remarkable statement from the woman in response: “And she said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table'” (verse 27). At this, Jesus said to her: “‘O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire'” (verse 28).

Further proof that firstfruits from among the Gentiles are represented by one of the two loaves may be found by examining more about Jesus Christ’s role. Shortly following His birth, this testimony about Jesus was given by Simeon: “‘A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel'” (Luke 2:32). Jesus, knowing the unfolding plan of God, stated: “‘And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd'” (John 10:16).

In one of the Messianic prophecies, the all-encompassing role Jesus was to fulfill for the totality of mankind is revealed: “Indeed He says, ‘It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant To raise up the tribes of Jacob, And to restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles, That You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth'” (Isaiah 49:6).

Paul offers this compelling overview of God’s plan of salvation–starting with the firstfruits and including both those of Israel and of the Gentiles (that is, the rest of the nations): “Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh–who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands–that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Ephesians 2:11-13).

Then, in Galatians 3, we find this summary–a kind of capstone for us to understand that God will accept both the loaves represented in Leviticus 23, that is, not only the firstfruits of Israel, but the firstfruits of other nations as well:

“(26) For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. (27) For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (29) And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”

Thus, we can see that the two loaves represent the firstfruits of all of mankind called and chosen by God the Father to be included in the first resurrection at Christ’s coming. The waving of the two loaves on the Day of Pentecost pictured this harvesting of God’s firstfruits.

As God’s great master plan is revealed in His Holy Days, we find that an even greater harvest of all of the rest of humanity will follow! For more information about the Feast Days of God, please read our free booklet, “God’s Commanded Holy Days.”

The Global Church of God in the UK sent out a letter in May and June to the entire mailing list of over 2,400, with an offer to receive booklets, to be put on the list to automatically receive all new booklets, to receive the Statement of Beliefs, audio sermon tapes, member and co-worker letters and the weekly Update. The mailing produced an additional 103 people, not church members, being added to the circulation list to receive one booklet, or a combination of new booklets, tapes, letters and updates. Dozens of Statement of Beliefs were sent out together with hundreds of booklets. Responses are still being received.

Below are some of the comments received following this mailing.

“Very many thanks for the informative and very interesting booklets which you are kind enough to let me have and which I am happy to show to acquaintances and friends.”

“Thank you for your letter and offers of God’s truth. I would like some of your booklets (seven are listed) and sorry to ask for so many plus tapes and Statement of Beliefs. Do you charge for the tapes? I yearn for the Word of God. You are right–the world is on a self-destruct way of life and yes, we do need Jesus Christ to set up His Kingdom of God on earth. Man seems to be getting more and more selfish and not keeping God’s Commandments. Thanking you again.”

“May I convey my thanks for your booklets that you sent upon my request. I am horrified to find that I (as well as many others) have been led astray in many respects and aspects from the true path/way that God has set out for us: paganistic practices allowed in certain areas concerned with Christian values and so on. Also the keeping of God’s Holy Sabbaths and weekly Sabbaths on and at the correct times. There is far more that struck me as I continued my studies of your booklets. In some instances, I found that my ultimate conclusion about God always having been, and is and shall be forever, was in one of your booklets in black and white. This gladdened me very much.”

“Please find enclosed a contribution. Many thanks for your superb booklets.”

“Thank you for your letter. Please note that I do not believe on the Trinity and I have no church as most churches regard this as a heresy. So if you are different, I’d love to hear from you.”

“I received your books, ‘Europe in Prophecy’ and ‘America and Britain in Prophecy’ and found both very interesting and thought provoking. With the recent election of the new Pope (a German religious leader) it got me thinking again about the prophecies, so I joined your mailing list on the internet. I would like to ask that if you have any other free books or any other future publications please could you send them to me.”

“Thank you very much for your letter and tape (sermon). They were very welcome. As an ex-member of Worldwide, and now struggling alone, I am happy to receive all the materials I can get. Once again thank you and God bless you all and the work.”

“I have read many of your booklets in the past and think they are excellent and they have been very helpful indeed in helping to understand the meaning of Scripture.”

“I recently received a few of your books and found them very interesting. I was amazed to realize that most of the Christian churches don’t take the Bible literally. I am a member of (Church mentioned) and now rethinking their teachings on the Holy Ghost as the third member of the Godhead and their holy days. I would love to read the rest of the books I never ordered. Please send me the booklets listed on the opposite page. Thank you.”

On Saturday, June 25, 2005, Norbert Link will be giving the sermon, titled, “Why Is God Angry?”

The services can be heard at www.cognetservices.org at 12:30 pm Pacific Time (which is 2:30 pm Central Time). Just click on Connect to Live Stream.

Over the years in the Church of God, mountains of information have been produced in the form of magazines, books, booklets, reprint articles, questions and answers, lectures, Bible studies, sermons (live and on audio, video and DVD) and information on web sites. This has all taken much work and effort and has been provided to help, instruct and edify church members in their journey towards the Kingdom of God.

History has told us that many have not listened, or if they have, it was either only for a period of time or they were never really interested anyway. Of course, some who may have shown some initial interest may not have been called at that time, but for those who were called and baptized and fully embraced the new way of life, failure to listen could prove disastrous to their long term future!

Spiritual deafness can be caused by a lack of conviction in the first place (Ezekiel 33:31-33), disobedience (Matthew 7:26-27), shallowness (Matthew 13:18-21), hardness of heart (Luke 16:27-31), forgetfulness (James 1:22-24), indifference (Matthew 22:1-5) and rebellion (Ezekiel 12:1-2).

But while we may not always listen to God through His Word and His ministry, God always listens to us, except, when we rebel against Him and refuse to repent. Then, we are told, God will not listen to us, Isaiah 59:1-2. But barring this, God is available every second of every day and will not turn a deaf ear to His people. Prayer is the way we communicate with our Creator, and we see that our prayers are important to God (Revelation 5:8).

It is also very important that church members listen to each other and even to good advice from those “outside” the church. There is a classic Biblical case of someone listening to instruction. Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, saw that Moses dealt with the people from morning to night, and he offered him some very wise advice (Exodus 18:17-24). By heeding that wise counsel, Moses, who was the leader of the nation and not too proud to heed advice, was able to benefit, as was the nation of Israel. He had a humble and approachable attitude and one that we can learn from. Too often, some have not only discounted advice from those who may have seen them heading in a wrong direction, but have refused to listen at all. Being easily entreated is a splendid Biblical principle that we can all benefit from.

Do we listen? Hopefully the answer is yes — and on an ongoing basis. We are to listen to God through His Word and His ministry, and to each other, as we help and encourage each other in our mutual journey towards eternal life. And in the meantime, we can take a lesson from the way that God works — He listens attentively to us. That’s the finest example we could possibly have.

Christian Unity?

According to an article by The Associated Press, which was published on June 16, 2005, “Pope Benedict XVI said Thursday the search for unity between the Roman Catholic Church and other Christians was ‘irreversible,’ underlining his desire to improve relations and heal the 1,000-year-old rift with the Orthodox Church. Benedict made the comments in a meeting with… Samuel Kobia, the leader of the World Council of Churches, the fellowship of more than 300 churches from nearly all Christian traditions, including Protestants and the Orthodox. The Roman Catholic Church is not a member, but cooperates with the WCC.

“In his remarks, Benedict repeated his pledge that his ‘primary task’ as pope would be to work tirelessly to rebuild unity of all Christians with ‘concrete gestures’ and not just words. ‘The commitment of the Catholic Church to the search for Christian unity is irreversible,’ Benedict said.”

However, it must be asked what this unity will look like. As the article continued to point out:

“In an interview with the AP ahead of the papal audience, Kobia said he was hoping for progress in one area in particular that has vexed some Protestant members of the World Council. The issue stems from a 2000 document from the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which was headed by the pope when he was Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. The document, ‘Dominus Iesus,’ which Ratzinger signed, framed the role of the Catholic Church in human salvation in an exclusive manner. It suggested that non-Catholic ‘ecclesiastical communities’ were ‘not churches in the proper sense.’ ‘There are many Protestant churches that are members of the WCC and are concerned that they are defined as “ecclesiastic communities” and not full churches,’ Kobia said. He said he wasn’t looking for Benedict to renounce the 2000 document, but said he hoped the two sides could ‘move beyond it.'”

Of course, nobody expects that the pope will renounce or repudiate the document, as it sets forth accurately the Catholic teaching on the issue. But what is gained by “moving beyond it”? True peaceful unity could never be achieved with the above-described teaching of the Catholic Church in place, UNLESS the Protestant and Orthodox churches give up their stance on the matter and embrace the Catholic Church and the pope as their spiritual leader and religious authority.

Sunday Laws in Europe

The British Daily Mail reported on June 17, 2005, about attempts in Britain by chain stores and supermarkets to “turn Sunday into ordinary shopping days.” The article erroneously refers to Sunday as “the Sabbath,” and explains that in the UK, stores greater than 280 square meters of shopping space may open for six hours but must remain closed on Christmas and Easter. Smaller stores are allowed to open for as long as they like. Two thirds of retailers are willing to open for longer on Sunday.

According to the article, “the Church of England says the proposal would have devastating consequences and the Keep Sunday Special campaign warns it would destroy a vital family day… The Church of England… says: ‘Sunday is not a normal day, it is a holy day.'”

This is of course untrue, if we look at the teachings of the Bible. Nowhere does the Bible declare that Sunday is holy. Rather, according to God’s Word, it is the Seventh-Day-SABBATH, which God made holy, and which is still holy today! History reveals that it was the Catholic Church that declared Sunday to be holy, and most other Christian churches, including the Church of England, followed the Catholic Church’s lead to declare Sunday holy, while abrogating the worship of the 7th-Day-Sabbath. However, man cannot declare unholy, what God has made holy; nor can he make holy, what God has not decreed to be holy. For more information, please read our free booklets, “Europe in Prophecy,” and “God’s Commanded Holy Days.”

The Daily Mail continued to explain that many European countries have special Sunday laws, or observe Sunday practices and customs. Some of these countries, generally forbidding or not engaging in trade on Sundays, are Germany, France, Spain, Norway, and Italy. The article explained that, for instance, Poland has NO Sunday regulations, “which has led to an influx of German shoppers on a Sunday.”

It can be expected that with the growing influence of the Catholic Church under Pope Benedict XVI, Sunday laws in Catholic countries such as Poland will be enacted soon.

More Earthquakes in California

As The Associated Press reported on Thursday, June 16, 2005, another “moderate earthquake shook most of Northern California Thursday, but there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. The 1:53 p.m. quake had a preliminary magnitude of 5.3 and was centered three miles northeast of Yucaipa in San Bernardino County east of Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Shaking was reported from Los Angeles to San Diego and in counties to the east.”

Subsequently, additional earthquakes struck Southern California near Eureka. The Associated Press reported on Saturday, June 18:

“A 6.6-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Northern California, but there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries, authorities said. The quake late Thursday came just days after a larger temblor in the region generated a tsunami warning that sent residents scrambling.”

The Associated Press reported on Monday, June 20, about another earthquake near Eureka:

“A 5.0-magnitude earthquake hit about 120 miles off Northern California early Sunday morning, near the location where a larger temblor prompted a brief tsunami warning last week, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake struck at 1:27 a.m. and was centered about 130 miles west of Eureka. A Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department dispatcher said there were no immediate reports of damages or injuries.”

The article concluded with these words of uncertainty (emphasis added):

“Californians have had a string of significant earthquakes after several years of relative seismic calm. But seismologists say clusters of earthquakes do not ALWAYS mean the Big One is coming.”

Germany Condemns Mass Murders

According to an article by Reuters, which was published on June 16, 2005, “Germany’s parliament condemned on Thursday the mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks 90 years ago, sparking an angry protest from Ankara. Voting shortly after the government and opposition clashed over whether Turkey should join the European Union, all main parties in the Bundestag joined in deploring what many historians say amounted to genocide. The resolution stopped short of calling the killings genocide, a term Turkey rejects, but it will test relations between Ankara and Berlin, a staunch supporter of Turkish EU aspirations.

“‘This resolution is regrettable and we strongly condemn it,’ said the Turkish Foreign Ministry in a statement. It described the resolution as one-sided and ‘provocative’ and said it would hurt Turks’ feelings. It said German lawmakers had been motivated by domestic politics and had ignored repeated warnings of the harm the resolution would do to bilateral ties.

“Turkey denies the claims that 1.5 million Armenians were killed in a systematic genocide between 1915 and 1923 as the multi-ethnic Ottoman Empire collapsed. It accepts hundreds of thousands of Armenians were killed but says even more Turks died in a partisan conflict in which many Armenians backed invading Russian troops… Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul told German reporters this week that the resolution amounted to ‘a huge injustice toward Turkey and Turks living in Germany,’ the German newspaper Rheinische Post reported on Thursday. Teaching in German schools about the ‘destruction’ of Armenians as proposed by the resolution would create hostility against Turks among German youth, the Turkish foreign ministry statement said… Around 2 million Turks live in Germany…

“The resolution [of the German parliament] also condemned the German government of the time for failing to try to stop the killings despite having ‘information about the organized expulsion and extermination of Armenians.’ Germany was an ally of the Ottoman Empire during World War One, when the massacres took place. ‘The German parliament is well aware from its own experience how hard it is for all peoples to deal with the dark side of their past,’ the resolution said in a reference to Germany’s own Nazi regime and its murder of millions of Jews.”

Turkey and the EU

As the San Francisco Chronicle reported on June 17, 2005, “With Europe still reeling over the ‘no” votes in France and the Netherlands on the European constitution, many Turks are also having second thoughts about their 40-year drive to join the European Union… For Turks, the French rejection of the constitution occurred on an ironic day — May 29, the anniversary of the Ottoman Turks’ capture of Constantinople in 1453 and their emergence as a power extending into Europe. To many Frenchmen, the referendum seemed to be a way to repel another Turkish invasion of Europe… One of the central themes of the ‘no’ campaign in France and the Netherlands was opposition to enlargement of the bloc, and especially to the membership of predominantly Muslim Turkey… The prospect of having to make concessions on politically sensitive topics has also made more Turks question the price of membership… Some European politicians, emphatically led by the French, have called on Turkey to recognize the mass killings of Armenians by Ottoman Turks in 1915 as ‘genocide’ — a red line for all Turkish politicians.”

Cohabitation Harmful?

In a recent article of Psychology Today, the publication warned against cohabitation of couples prior to marriage. The article pointed out that “couples who move in together before marriage have up to two times the odds of divorce, as compared with couples who marry before living together. Moreover, married couples who have lived together before exchanging vows tend to have poorer-quality marriages than couples who moved in after the wedding. Those who cohabited first report less satisfaction, more arguing, poorer communication and lower levels of commitment.”

In spite of these observations, the article stated:

“Thirty or 40 years ago, cohabitation was relatively rare, mainly the province of artists and other questionable types, and still thought of as ‘living in sin.’ In 1970 only about 500,000 couples lived together in unwedded bliss. Now, nearly 5 million opposite-sex couples in the United States live together outside of marriage; millions more have done it at some point… Some evidence indicates that women have less control over the progress of the cohabiting relationship. She may assume they’re on the road to marriage, but he may think they’re just saving on rent and enjoying each other’s company… Cohabiting men may carry their uncertainty forward into marriage, with destructive consequences. A 2004 study… found that men who had lived with their spouse premaritally were on average less committed to their marriages than those who hadn’t…

“Cohabiting relationships, by their nature, appear to be less fulfilling than marital relationships. People who cohabit say they are less satisfied and more likely to feel depressed… While the precarious finances of many cohabiters has something to do with it, [another factor is] the inherent lack of stability. Long-term cohabitation is rare: most couples either break up or marry within five years… As a result, cohabitation is not an ideal living arrangement for children. Emotionally or academically, the children of cohabiters just don’t do as well, on average, as those with two married parents, and money doesn’t fully explain the difference… Cohabitation rates may be skyrocketing, but Americans are still entirely enchanted with marriage. That’s a sharp contrast with some Western societies — Sweden, France or the Canadian province of Quebec, for example — where cohabitation is beginning to replace marriage… In the United States, 90 percent of young people are still expected to tie the knot at some point.”

EU Budget Talks Collapse

As The Associated Press reported on June 17, 2005, “Talks on the European Union’s budget collapsed in acrimony Friday, abruptly ending a summit that diplomats had hoped would pull the EU out of its constitutional dilemma. Top European leaders blamed each other for the breakdown but agreed the bloc was ‘in a deep crisis.’ The failure to agree on a budget for 2007-2013 reinforced impressions that the 50-year process of EU integration has lost direction after the French and Dutch referendums in which voters rejected a proposed EU constitution…

“[O]n Friday, Britain refused to surrender its annual rebate and several other nations demanded financial relief. French President Jacque Chirac said he ‘deplored’ Britain’s attitude during the tense negotiations… German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder said, ‘We are in one of the worst political crises Europe has ever seen. We could not get an agreement because of the stubbornness of Great Britain and the Netherlands.’ British Prime Minister Tony Blair dismissed suggestions that Britain was the main cause of the summit’s collapse, insisting four other countries also were unable to reach agreement…

“In a sign of how much the EU’s new members were prepared to go to clinch a deal, Poland, the Czech Republic and eight other eastern nations offered funds destined for them to their rich western partners. Chirac praised the 10 nations that joined the EU last year, saying their offer to give up money to get Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland and Britain to agree to a budget deal contrasted with ‘the selfishness of two or three rich states.’… The budget dispute soured the second day of summit negotiations, pitting Britain against France.”

Reuters added the following observations:

“In a welter of recrimination, many leaders blamed Britain for blocking a deal on the 2007-2013 budget… German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder blamed British and Dutch obduracy for what he called ‘one of the worst crises Europe has known.’… The failure means Blair will inherit the EU presidency for six months on July 1 accused of torpedoing the budget talks, even by some in the ‘new Europe’ whose accession he championed.”

Reuters also observed in a related article: “The European Union’s double failure over its budget and constitution at a summit this week will probably have to wait until next year for resolution, EU politicians and analysts said on Saturday… With Britain, which led an assault on the EU budget at the summit, taking over the presidency of the 25-nation bloc, there seemed little chance of resolving the crisis until next year. Gernot Erler, foreign policy expert for Germany’s ruling Social Democrats, said: ‘You cannot expect anything from the next presidency, Britain’s, because (Prime Minister) Tony Blair particularly has contributed to the failure.’ A compromise on the disputed budget would have to wait for the Austrian presidency in the first half of 2006, he said… But London said on Saturday the EU may need a shock to reinvent itself.”

The German Press did not shy away from blaming Tony Blair and Great Britain for the collapse. Bild Online’s headline read: “Great Britain and the Netherlands plunge the EU into chaos.” Der Spiegel Online agreed that the collapse occurred mainly because of Great Britain’s demands. Der Stern Online wrote that Tony Blair was sharply criticized because of his unrelenting attitude.

The AFP added the following perspective in its article, which was published on June 18:

“Open warfare broke out over the future of the European Union after leaders’ attempts to agree to a long-term budget collapsed. The stunning failure of a two-day EU summit heaped new shame on the bloc, which had to place an EU constitutional treaty on ice following twin ballot blows from French and Dutch voters. Britain was arrayed against most of its 24 EU partners, refusing to part with a jealously-guarded budget rebate. The dispute degenerated into an ugly cross-channel skirmish with France… Amid the chaos, the European press on Saturday likened the dispute to the battles of Trafalgar and Waterloo, waged 190 years ago this weekend not far from Brussels.”

Although the purported reasons for the present crisis in Europe are many, one paramount cause seems to be the existence of two different philosophies about the future of Europe. The British and especially the French are at serious odds with each other. The EUobserver explained on June 18:

“Following a bitter and failed summit on the future funding of the EU, veteran politician and current head of the EU Jean-Claude Juncker has concluded that Europe is divided into two opposing camps–a free trade camp and a political Europe camp… A large part of the reason that the French voted No was fears of a free-market Anglo-Saxon model of Europe, which they felt would cost jobs and social security… By the time the summit came around, both sides were spoiling for a fight with the British rebate and French farm subsidies taking the foreground but an ideological divide providing the background.”

An interesting perspective was also offered by the publication, “This Is London.” It was reported on June 19:

“Britain has blamed France for the EU budget crisis, accusing it of wanting a Europe ‘trapped in the past.’ France, Germany and Luxembourg turned on Britain after talks to broker a new EU budget collapsed. But Foreign Secretary Jack Straw insisted Britain had the support of at least four other countries. And he said those attacking Britain were on the wrong side of the divide. French president Jacques Chirac led the recriminations late on Friday night after Tony Blair twice rejected compromise proposals aimed at securing a deal. Mr Blair insisted he had no choice as the proposals would have meant abandoning Britain’s £3 billion-a-year budget rebate without tackling massive farm subsidies. Mr Straw… said the crisis had come about because other member states had failed to face up to the need for major reform. He said the decisive rejection of the EU constitution by the people of France and the Netherlands was a rejection of an ‘old-fashioned’ concept of Europe. He said it has been ‘a sad day for Europe.’ But he said it also represented an opportunity to make the changes vital for the future of the EU.

“Mr Straw conceded there was a serious schism. ‘It is essentially a division between whether you want a European Union that is able to cope with the future or whether you want a European Union that is trapped in the past,’ he said.”

The fact that most European politicians blame Great Britain for the present European chaos is remarkable. Most Britons are against the United States of Europe and Europe’s common currency, the Euro, but Tony Blair was — so far — seen as a supporter of both. Now, in light of most recent developments, Tony Blair might not be perceived to be a supporter for much longer. The Bible strongly indicates that Great Britain will not be a part of the final configuration of the United States of Europe, as foretold in Scripture. For more information, please read our free booklet,“The Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord.”

It is important that we understand the time setting of Revelation 22:15. Before discussing the passage in detail, we need to realize that it describes a time AFTER the heavenly Jerusalem has descended to earth. We read earlier, in Revelation 21:1-2: “Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” Verse 10 continues to explain that “the great city, the holy Jerusalem, [was] descending out of heaven from God.” Verse 27 continues that “there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.”

It is important to understand that the heavenly Jerusalem will descend AFTER the events described in Revelation 20; that is, AFTER “anyone not found in the Book of Life” had been “cast into the lake of fire (verse 15). “Death and Hades,” that is, all physical humans not written in the Book of Life, had already been “cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death” (verse 14).

With this background, let us read Revelation 22:14-15:

“(14) 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. (15) But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.”

Revelation 22:19 adds that “if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book [better: Tree] of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.”

Since Revelation 22:15 talks about sinners who will be “outside” the heavenly Jerusalem, is it teaching that the souls of the lost ones are still roaming outside the city? No, because we read in an earlier passage, in Revelation 21:8, that those who have committed the unpardonable sin will have been thrown into the lake of fire, to be burned up and destroyed. [Revelation 21:8 reads: “But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, 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.”]

The lists of sins in Revelation 21:8 and Revelation 22:15 are very similar, indicating that these passages address the same kind of people. In addition, our Q&A’s in Updates 194 and 195, prove that people will not live forever in an ever-burning hell, but that those who permanently refuse to repent will be burned up and destroyed.

The Commentary on the Whole Bible by Jamieson, Fausset and Brown, states: “As all the filth of the old Jerusalem was carried outside the walls and burnt there, so nothing defiled shall enter the heavenly city, but be burnt outside (cf. ch. 22:15).”

The Broadman Bible Commentary explains Revelation 22:15, as follows:

“The blessedness of the righteous is seen more clearly in John’s contrast with those outside. Outside does not mean that the wicked are milling around the exterior of the walls of the holy city. It means that they will never be inside the city; they are [or better: were cast into] the lake of fire (20:15). The term could have some reference to life in the present world; the righteous already know a habitation with God; the wicked are already outside.”

In fact, the Bible speaks repeatedly about those who are “outside” — who are not a part of the Church. 1 Corinthians 5:12-13 reads: “For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside? But those who are outside God judges. Therefore put away from yourselves the evil person.” Compare, too, Colossians 4:5 and 1 Thessalonians 4:12.

The Greek word for “outside,” “exo,” which is used in those passages and in Revelation 22:15, can also mean “without.” In Matthew 13:47-48, it is translated as, “away”: “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some of every kind, which, when it was full, they drew to the shore; and they sat down and gathered the good into vessels, but threw the bad AWAY.”

The meaning is clear: Those who are “bad”; that is those who commit the sins, as described in Revelation 22:15, as a way of life, without a willingness to repent, will be “outside” or “without” or “away from” the holy city and the Kingdom of God. Many Scriptures show that those people will not inherit or enter the Kingdom (compare 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21; and Ephesians 5:5). Please note that the lists of sins, as set forth in 1 Corinthians, Galatians and Ephesians, are very similar to the sins mentioned in Revelation 21:8 and 22:15, including sexual immorality, idolatry, sorcery, and murders. All these lists address the same kind of people.

Christ said in Luke 13:28: “There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out [and thrown into the lake of fire, compare Matthew 13:41-42].”

Rather than teaching that the souls of the lost ones are “milling around the exterior of the walls of the holy city,” Revelation 22:15 teaches that they won’t be there. Moffat translates Revelation 22:15 in this way: “Begone, you dogs, you sorcerers, you vicious creatures, you murderers, you idolaters, you who love and practice falsehood, every one of you.” Other translations render the Greek word “exo”; i.e., “outside” or “without,” as “excluded.” Those who refuse to repent will be EXCLUDED from access to the Kingdom of God and the holy city. They will be destroyed in the lake of fire which is the second and final death, from which there is no resurrection back to life.

A new StandingWatch program has been recorded on Thursday and placed on the Web. It is tilted: “Can Europe Be Healed?”