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Dear Brethren and Friends,

Now that we are in the midst of summertime in the northern hemisphere, many of us experience impressive lightning shows when thunderstorms roll through. Even though they can be dangerous, the display is fascinating to watch. It is amazing to think that mere clouds in the sky, consisting of droplets of water so tiny that they float in air, can build up an electric charge so great that hundreds of millions of volts of electricity are released in a moment. The potential energy of something so simple as a cloud is impressive.

While looking at a cloud, it is fascinating to reflect on all of the things it can do. A cloud can shade the sun, and bring down enough rain to flood streams. A cloud may let down hail large enough to destroy anything in its earthward path. In the right season, a cloud may precipitate a blizzard of snow, deep enough to bring entire cities to a standstill. All of these powerful events are the potential of a cloud, an innocent puffy thing that hangs in the sky.

As great as the unsuspected power that a cloud may have, it is nothing in comparison to the immense potential of man. The ultimate fulfillment of man’s potential is something that the world finds foreign, yet the Bible has contained the truth in clear words for thousands of years. Jesus Christ Himself quotes the Scripture in John 10:34, “Jesus answered them, ‘Is it not written in your law, “I said, ‘You are gods’”’?”

What an inspiring and powerful revelation! A cloud may have the potential to bring down lightning but mankind has the potential to become part of the God Family, and thereby become God. As plain as this statement is, even the Scribes and Pharisees at Christ’s time considered it blasphemy to say such a thing. Many today fail to believe this fact.

Just because the potential is there for all people to be begotten and born into the Family of God, it is not automatic. One must first be called, and then answer that call, by living a life that proves repentance. “Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born [better “begotten,” compare New American Bible] of God, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments” (1 John 5:1-2).

If we are called and if we repent of our sins, then through baptism and the laying on of hands, God gives us His Holy Spirit. It is through His indwelling power that we are able to begin harnessing our ultimate potential.

Jesus Christ makes a peculiar statement that provides an interesting and almost shocking insight into what we might be able to do if we have faith enough to make use of our potential. In Matthew 17:20 Jesus says, “’… for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.’” It is an impossible physical feat for man to move a mountain, but with the power of God, through faith, what can we say is really impossible?

Knowing that we have such a great potential at our disposal, both in the future, and right now, what are we doing with it? It may not be necessary to move physical mountains at this time, but we can be confronted with spiritual mountains which need to be moved. And we can and must certainly be doing something. We, as part of the Church, are part of a living Body. Each part of the Body plays an essential role. Our potential is to become part of God’s Family in the future; our potential now is to harness the power of the Holy Spirit; but what is manifest now is our place in the Body of Christ. All of this taken together should serve to narrow our focus and define our purpose for being.

Some of these ideas might seem to be general, or abstract, or difficult to translate into practical terms. Still, we all need to feel empowered to participate in the Work of the Church, contributing in our way to help the Gospel to be preached to the world as a witness. Only you can judge how you are most able to contribute to the Work. However, one of the most powerful things we can do is call upon God in prayer to bless the Work and lead the ministry so that God may be glorified, and His Kingdom established. The potential of all mankind is very great, but it takes concrete action in accordance with God’s Purpose right now so that it will be fulfilled.

With Christian love,

Eric Rank

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

In our weekly Update No. 639 dated 16th May 2014 we included a report from The Examiner which wrote on 2nd May the following: “A spokesperson for the Vatican officially announced that the coming of the Lord may not happen. They stated from the looks of it, Yashua, the only begotten Son of God will not return per John 14:1-3. Cardinal Giorgio Salvadore told WWN [Waterford Whispers News] reporters that Jesus may have been drinking (perhaps from the last Supper with his disciples) when he uttered the statements of his return. He rationalized that people make promises they can’t keep when they’re drunk…”

Both Mr Link in his StandingWatch programme, “Does the Vatican Question the Return of Christ?” and our Update point out that “there is much discussion as to whether the above-quoted comments were actually made, due to the fact that apparently no mainstream paper or news agency reported them. However, so far, there does not appear to be any repudiation of this report by the Vatican.”

But should we be surprised?

We read in 2 Peter 3:3-4: “…knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, and saying, ‘Where is the promise of His coming?  For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.’” Likewise, Jude 17-18 has this to say: “But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts.”

Further similar sentiments about the end time are expressed in 1 Timothy 4:1: “Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons…”

Those who know their Bible will not be surprised about mockers and scoffers at the end of this age and clearly many have, in recent years, abandoned the faith.

However, whilst it is interesting and necessary to be able to discern the sign of the times, too many in the past have been far too ready to set dates for Christ’s return, ignoring that Jesus Himself said: “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only” (Matthew 24:36). Many feel that that may have applied 2,000 years ago but not now and, therefore, specifying a date that usually has been “revealed” just to them is legitimate. The fact that every one of these prognostications has been incorrect should tell all of us that the date is still not known to man. Failed predictions only serve to make those who fall into the trap of date-setting look ridiculous, but they also do not serve the Christian faith well. Christianity too often, and wrongly, is judged by the actions of its promoters and adherents rather than by what the Bible teaches about how we should live our lives.

If those who have formulated charts and intricate detailed prophecies to prove their point about Christ’s return at any given moment had spent their time preparing for such an event through their spiritual lives of prayer, study and meditation, their time would have been much better spent. We should not set dates, but there are those who still do.

I recall that a minister in the Church of God told me over 40 years ago that we had to be sold on the Way of Life, and how true that still is today. We must remember that there will come a time when certain prophecies will “fail” (1 Corinthians 13:8)—they will have come to pass and been fulfilled—and much more important is the character that we now must be building.  At the Judgment Seat, we will not be judged by how much intricate and detailed prophecy we knew and understood, but by how well we had kept God’s Commandments.

The rich young ruler asked Jesus: ”Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” (Matthew 19:16). Jesus immediately answered him: “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments” (verse 17).  Jesus then went on to list some of the Ten Commandments (verses 18-19), and He also said to him: “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me” (verse 21). “But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions” (verse 22). Physical things meant more to him than spiritual things.

The “Way” is spoken of a number of times in the book of Acts (9:2;  18:25, 26; 19:9, 23; 22:4; 24:14, 22) and is a Way of Life following Christ and His perfect Way. He said: “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). And so Jesus Christ is THE Way.

We have to have a love of the truth (2 Thessalonians 2:10). Many have failed that test over the years, but we must not.

We must ignore the mockers and scoffers. The Bible has warned us that they would be around at the time of the end with comments like: “Where is the promise of His coming?” (2 Peter 3:4), and it appears that some in the early New Testament Church were beginning to wonder why Jesus Christ had not yet returned to set up the Kingdom of God on earth. It wasn’t time then nor has it been any time since, but many Scriptures talk about the Second Coming and it will happen in God’s own time frame.

The Holy Spirit was given to the early Church on the day of Pentecost that we will be celebrating and keeping on Sunday 8th June this year. With the help of that Holy Spirit, baptised Church members will have all the help needed to keep “the Way” and to realise that detractors will be around to mock and to scoff, but we can and must ignore their words and actions.

In the end, we win, and those who now mock and scoff, without fully realising what they are doing,  will have their opportunity for salvation when it is God’s time to call them and offer the same opportunity that we now enjoy. We should rejoice in that knowledge.

With absolute certainty we can say that Jesus will return at a time that the Father chooses, as it will be necessary to do so in order to stop mankind from blowing himself off the face of the earth. Without His coming, “no flesh would be saved” (Matthew 24:22); that is, nobody would physically survive. Let us look forward to the time of Christ’s return with great anticipation—a time that will surprise many. But it will happen, whatever the doubters may think!

With Christian love,

Brian Gale
(United Kingdom)

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

What lies ahead for US in the Work of God?

Through prophecy given by God, we know that events taking place RIGHT NOW are “signs” of the end of this age and Satan’s deceptive rule over mankind. We also know the Bible reveals many detailed occurrences which have NOT YET taken place—but that they are at hand and on the way!

Beyond the key prophecies about end-time world events, the Word of God also addresses the Church during the tumultuous future that is coming.

When Jesus was asked about His return and when that would occur, His response was directed to His disciples—“‘the elect’” (Matthew 24:22). He gave specific instructions for Christians:

“‘Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is’” (Mark 13:33); “‘And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!’” (Mark 13:37); and, from Matthew’s account, we are told, “‘Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect’” (Matthew 24:44).

To whom are these admonitions being given? Who really understands how to apply what Jesus said? This is knowledge for the Church of God, and Jesus addresses converted men and women in order for us to be prepared. Jesus knew that His Church would be sustained throughout the centuries and still exist when He returns. The Work which He started would be continued and finished. His commission guides our activities now, and it will, as well, in the future:

“‘And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come’” (Matthew 24:14).

To all of the churches addressed in the second and third chapters of Revelation, Jesus said, “‘I know your works’”—telling some to “‘repent’” while others were to “‘be faithful’” and “‘hold fast.’”  Also, all were told that “‘He who overcomes…’” are the ones who would find eternal life in the Family of God.

Will we really take this instruction to heart? Jesus—understanding exactly what His people would face—said, “‘But he who endures to the end shall be saved’” (Matthew 24:13).

Following the prophetic revelations given by Jesus in Matthew 24, He then presents parables aimed directly at how His servants should be conducting themselves. You might want to carefully review Matthew 24:45-51 and all of chapter 25 in this regard.

As we face the future, we can do so with understanding, because God has revealed the truth to us (compare John 8:32), and we know that Jesus Christ is leading us:

“‘My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand’” (John 10:27-29).

The apostle Paul was called by God to preach the gospel, and the story of his life is recorded for us. In fulfilling the Work of God given to him, he faced tremendous difficulties (compare 2 Corinthians 11:22-33). This is what he wrote to Timothy:

“But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:10-12).

Paul looked forward with total reliance in God:

“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.  Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: ‘For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.’ Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:31-39).

We, like Jesus Christ and all the faithful men and women before us, have been chosen to have a part in the Work of God. That Work continues, and in the months and years directly ahead, our faith will be tested! Knowing this, we must become READY! Now is the time to draw close to God—PRAYING earnestly for God’s strength.

Brethren, thank you for your dedicated participation in the Work of God!

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris

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Dear Members, Co-Workers and Friends,

We have finished our annual Church Conference, and all in attendance felt that this was the most profitable and peaceful conference we have had for a long time. Even though some might doubt the accuracy of this assessment, as it may sound too good to be true, we are confident that our statement reflects objectively what we have experienced. We are all on the same page and dedicated to the Work of preaching the Gospel and feeding the Flock in the way that God would want us to do—something which could not always be said for all prior years with that same kind of emphasis. This kind of unity reflects growth through the help of God’s Holy Spirit, along with the fact that Jesus Christ continues to guide those who yield to Him.

Among many topics, we discussed the most obvious and some more subtle examples of doctrinal and administrative differences between our organizations and other church groups within the Body of Christ. We addressed our Internet presence and our ever-increasing and hard-working technical team, as well as plans and options for expansions, including on Facebook. We had a short look at our stunning new national and international websites, which are being prepared and which will show a unified design to better establish our identities. We confirmed our biblical understanding of John 7:37-39 and discussed, based on the Bible, how Jesus—the glorious immortal God Being—became a mortal Man. We evaluated plans for the Feast of Tabernacles in 2015, with the possibility of perhaps opening up a third Feast site. We also expressed our intent to write and publish a few more booklets this year—including one on the return of Christ and one on the fall and rise of the House of Judah. We decided to begin posting all video-recorded sermons on the Web. We will continue to address some of the doctrinal issues, as discussed in our Conference, in upcoming Q&A’s.

Even though statistics could be manufactured—and quite often are in certain circles—we objectively viewed and analyzed our presence on our different national and international websites for the last 12 months and made observations about trends that will help us to improve our efficacy in fulfilling the commission of the Church. We also decided to continue with our radio broadcasts, realizing that it may take some time to receive many meaningful responses. It was pointed out that we are blessed with many responses and encouraging growth in attendance in the German Work, but we must not forget that we have been regularly posting weekly video-recorded German sermons since December of 2008.

Statistics can help us to evaluate where we could do more and implement slightly different actions, while always remembering that it is not our job to convert others but simply to preach the gospel of the Kingdom of God in all the world as a witness (Matthew 24:14). God will draw people to Christ and His Church (John 6:44, 65) whose hearts are being opened to the truth (Acts 13:48; 14:27; 15:8). When we diligently sow the seed, God will give the increase in those whom He chooses (Matthew 13:1-23)—many times in ways we will not understand (Isaiah 55:10-11).

When this letter reaches you, there will be only a few more days left before the Spring Holy Day season begins. As was pointed out in recent Editorials in our weekly Updates, we must prepare and be ready for the Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread.

In our Editorial of February 28, 2014, we stated that “It is important for baptized members of the true Church of God to partake of the Passover (in the evening of Sunday, April 13). It is equally important for them to use the light of God to reveal their sins, so that they can repent and partake of the Passover in a worthy manner, thus pleasing their Creator God and their Savior Jesus Christ.”

We stated in our subsequent Editorial of March 14, 2014, that in preparation for the Passover “true Christians ought to make an extra and diligent effort to examine themselves to determine whether and how Jesus is living in them (2 Corinthians 13:5), so that they do not partake of the Passover symbols in an unworthy manner (1 Corinthians 11:27-29). This self-examination should show us how we lived throughout the year—and if we are honest enough, we WILL find fault with ourselves. This realization must prompt us to repent, change, and make amends PRIOR to Passover eve.”

We also stated that “Paul tells us to examine ourselves, as to how we are doing, and to TAKE the Passover. But before partaking of the Passover symbols, we must repent of wrong conduct and wrong thinking, and we must understand and appreciate what the Sacrifice of Christ really means for us. Christ died for us to free us from sin. He did not die for us to give us license to sin. We must be willing to live our lives worthy of God and our holy calling, and obey God in everything.”

In addition, when addressing the Days of Unleavened Bread in our Editorial of April 3, 2014, we stated that “At times, the Bible compares sin with leaven, and if leaven is not removed, it grows and permeates the whole lump. In the same way, sin grows and spreads in our lives. The Days of Unleavened Bread picture our complete departure from sin, but this is impossible without God’s help. It is God who must fight our battles. According to tradition, Israel stood in front of the Red Sea on the Last Day of Unleavened Bread. They were completely helpless and in despair, when they saw Pharaoh’s army pursuing them. But God intervened miraculously and saved them from physical death or renewed physical captivity. Today, God is giving us—spiritual Israelites—spiritual victory over sin, if we submit to Him and let Him fight our spiritual battles for us.”

With God’s Holy Spirit living within us (the gift of the Holy Spirit to God’s Church is pictured by the annual Holy Day of Pentecost), we can be obedient to God. We stated in the above-mentioned Editorial:

“When we, as baptized members of the Church of God, keep the Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread, while focusing already on the Day of Pentecost, we ought to remember that everything we accomplish in this life is not because of our might and strength, but because of God’s grace and favor. Because of Christ’s great love for us, He died for us, when we were still sinners and God’s enemies. We did not deserve to be forgiven—God forgave us because of unmerited pardon. It is God who shows us the way out of sin and who enables us to follow His path. And it is God who gives us His Holy Spirit to empower us to obey Him in spirit and truth. In doing this, we can gladly focus on the Holy Days in the Autumn, beginning with the next dramatic event in the plan of God. This earth-shaking occurrence is pictured by the Feast of Trumpets and describes the return of Jesus Christ to establish God’s rule here on earth and to give us His gift of eternal life, by changing us from mortal human beings to immortal members of God’s Family.”

How thankful we ought to be that we do understand the meaning and importance of God’s annual Holy Days which reveal to us His plan for us and all of mankind. Let us show God our thankfulness by doing His Will for us—collectively and individually.

We thank YOU for your continued love and support and wish you a very meaningful and
rewarding Spring Holy Day season.

With Christian love,

Norbert Link

Dave Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

Eric Rank

Robb Harris

Michael Link

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Dear Brethren, Co-Workers and Friends:

As we are bombarded with terrible news from around the world, showing the perilous times and the lives of self-centered human beings in these last days (2 Timothy 3:1-5), those called by God to His Way of Life must be different. True Christians are to be happy people, reflecting and manifesting their inner joy which is focused on their future as glorified eternal Spirit beings in the very Family and Kingdom of God (John 17:13; Galatians 5:22; Romans 14:17). As we walk through this dark valley of human suffering and death, we must not allow ourselves to become frustrated and depressed; rather, we are to lift up our heads in anticipation of entering a spiritual world of splendor and beauty, joy and peace (Luke 21:28). In short, we are looking forward to the soon-coming time of our change (1 Corinthians 15:50-57).

Even when preparing for the sobering and serious Passover evening, we need to understand that our required self-examination (1 Corinthians 11:28) should produce thankfulness and happiness (John 15:11)—realizing that our sins have been forgiven because of the Father and Christ’s mercy, grace and selfless love for us and all of mankind. While this world is living a life of selfish pursuits and idle and vain endeavors, we—God’s people—are to exemplify a life of unselfish love and concern for the welfare and benefit of others. We do understand, of course, that we cannot change the world or convert others—nor should we ever try to do this—but we can help in whatever way possible to perhaps assist God in opening the minds of those who are being called (Matthew 5:16).

Prayer, Bible Study, Meditation on God’s Word and His Way of Life and occasional Fasting are in fact major pillars in the life of a Christian—part of the foundation on which a Christian stands. But sometimes, when we are confronted with “pressing” daily needs and “important” tasks, it might become difficult to “find the time” to pray or study God’s Word, and it may become far too easy to “convince” ourselves that it may not be that important. Also, we may be shocked to discover that our prayers have become “routine”—a habitual repetition of certain words—and our Bible Studies may lack quality and just consist of a superficial “reading” of a few verses in a randomly selected chapter.

Several years ago, we published a free booklet, “Teach Us to Pray,” to help our readers in their daily task of praying meaningful and successful prayers. This booklet is still available upon request. When we want answers to our prayers, we have certain obligations, and this booklet tells us what they are. We are now pleased to offer a brand-new booklet, which should help you to make your Bible Studies more interesting. It is titled, “Hidden Secrets in the Bible,” and was written to show you marvelous things from God’s Word.

We say in the introduction: “Based on the title of this booklet, if you are expecting to read about secret ‘Bible codes’ or obscure ‘biblical’ messages, you might be disappointed. Instead, we are going to lay out some interesting hidden secrets in the pages of the Holy Scriptures which might otherwise escape the casual reader.

“In Part 1 of this booklet, we will show you the beauty of Old Testament poetry and how it lends a deeper understanding of the Scriptures.

“In Part 2, we will explain the often overlooked significance of certain biblical numbers, while also clearing up some misunderstandings in this regard.

“In Part 3, we will discuss a hidden message in the book of Psalms. Rather than viewing this book as a collection of unrelated passages, you will see a story flow that reveals God’s plan of salvation.”

This booklet should be of great help to you to make your Bible Study more delightful. It also includes several boxes with related material, including an outline and overview of the psalms, briefly listing the topic of each psalm; and the identification of the seven psalms of repentance and the fourteen “psalms of ascent”; as well as those psalms which are focusing on and are related to a particular annual Holy Day, such as the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement and the Feast of Tabernacles.

For our subscribers in the USA, we enclose a copy of our new booklet with this letter. In other parts of the world, this booklet will be sent out shortly to those on the circulation list to receive new booklets. We trust that you will make good use of the discussed material. You will realize that it proves to you the unmistakable fact that it was indeed God who inspired the writings of the Bible—no human being and no human committee could have remotely accomplished what God did; and He left us His Holy Word for our benefit and learning (2 Timothy 3:14-17).

And so, we conclude this booklet with the following observation:

“For many, the Bible is a book ‘with seven seals’—a book which they seem to be unable to understand. Indeed, God must open our minds to see, but when He does, the Word of God will shine as a bright light in utter darkness, and it will truly reveal a whole world of previously unseen secrets which are not hidden any longer from those who want to understand…”

But as it is the case with prayer, we also have obligations and responsibilities when we want to study the Bible successfully. John 7:17 tells us that we must want to DO what we learn in God’s Word, and we are only privileged to be called Christ’s friends if we DO whatever He commands us (John 15:14).

With Christian love,

Norbert Link

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Dear Brethren, Co-Workers and Friends.

God commands us to examine ourselves on an annual basis prior to partaking of the Passover in the spring of the year. We are to analyse how we have been doing spiritually during the year that has just past, and how we are doing now by comparison. This is similar to checking your pulse to get an indication as to your health, and if you discover a physical problem, you need to find out what you can do to alleviate it.

To go a step further, let us take the pulse of English-speaking nations such as the USA, Canada and the UK (some of the modern descendants of the ancient house of Israel) to determine just how they are doing.

A few days ago, it was reported that since Wade vs. Roe (the decision that a woman could have an abortion on demand), fifty-five million abortions took place in the USA from 1973 to 2013—within a forty year period. That amounts to 1,375,000 abortions a year or 114,583 a month or 3,819 a day. That is more than the total population of Canada. This is nothing less than appalling to realize that so many innocent potential children of God are being butchered in the US alone. This does not include Canada or the UK, or other countries in Europe (not to speak of the rest of the world), which would put the figures much higher.

Our nations are the biggest users of illegal drugs and also prescription drugs. I worked in a prison for almost five years before being called, and I talked to and met a lot of drug addicts who told me about their miserable lives. While the drug producers may be happy about the increase in drug consumption, God is not at all pleased.

The USA has an insurmountable 17 trillion dollar debt, which works out to around $50,000.00 for every man, every woman and every child in the USA. Imagine this: Every child being born now has an automatic debt of $50,000.00 attached to him or her. This is unsustainable and will one day cause the collapse of the economy, and it will drag down Canada and other nations and may cause a worldwide economic depression, for which the US will not be very popular.

Added to the above is the dismantling of the biblical definition of marriage between a man and a woman, and replacing it with the concept of premarital cohabitation and same-sex marriages which are being legalized in more and more states in the USA, as well as in Canada, the UK and other countries around the world.

Is it any wonder that especially the nations of the modern house of Israel will be going into captivity?

Where does that leave us in God’s Church? It should give us an urgency to finish the Work of God (the proclamation of the Gospel and the feeding of the Flock) that was started by Jesus Christ and the New Testament Church. The Bible tells us that in these last days, we need to get the warning message out to the world. Nothing is more important. Our focus has to be on finishing this Work.

The gospel of the Kingdom of God has to be announced, as God opens doors for us, and we should be praying that God will open more doors. We should also be praying for “physical” growth that God would provide us with more labourers to shoulder this responsibility with us. We also need to be praying for spiritual growth, since we are to be growing in grace and knowledge. We are to pray for the ministry—for their health, safety and strength, and also, that God would inspire them to feed the membership with the needed spiritual food, as things will get tougher.

Look at how Paul admonished Titus in Titus 2:11-15:

“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.”

God’s ministers are to “exhort” and “rebuke,” but also to “encourage” to push on to finish this race. Look at what Paul had to endure. We read Paul’s description of a true minister of God who is willing to suffer for the Work of God, in 2 Corinthians 11:23-28:

“Are they ministers of Christ?—I speak as a fool—I am more: in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness—besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.”

Even in the face of such hardships, Paul pushed on to finish the race. He stated in Hebrews 12:1-4:

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin.”

As far as we know, none of God’s disciples has been martyred for God’s Way of Life in this century, but we know that difficult times are coming with persecution, betrayal and death for some.

These facts should not discourage us but rather make us more zealous to finish the job we have been given collectively and individually, and to look to our future resurrection, when the Kingdom of God will rule this earth to make it a better place—after Satan, the current ruler over this world, will have been banished. Knowing all of this, we must remain focused on God’s Work which is still ahead of us, realizing that our reward will be great for us when we endure till the end.

In Christ’s service

Rene Messier

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

In our weekly Update of the 6th December, I wrote an editorial entitled “Getting On Together”. In this I wrote: “The Church of God should be a homogenous group, all pulling in the same direction, with the same goal of growing and overcoming so that we ‘may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass and to stand before the Son of Man’ (Luke 21:36). In order to achieve that goal, we must pull together as the people of God, not pull apart.”

I have observed over 40 years in the Church of God that many have come and gone, including those whom we may have thought were “pillars in the Church” only to be disappointed. Without regurgitating that editorial, I would just repeat one part that I thought should concentrate our focus: “We see world events coming to a climax with seemingly little time left before Christ’s return and it is futile to concentrate on anything that will detract us from looking forward to that wonderful event and all that it means.”

How seriously do we take all of the warnings that we see in the four Gospel accounts, the Book of Revelation and many other biblical books?

Our head knowledge may help us to remember many of the warnings that we have been given, and the fact that we are reading this letter hopefully means that we have taken them to heart. For example: “And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another” (Matthew 24:10). Our understanding is that this passage of Scripture applies to the Church. With all of the problems following the apostasy of the 1990’s, and since, many have been offended and gone off in different and wrong directions, and many more will be offended and leave in the future, but we shouldn’t be surprised because it has been prophesied.

We further read: “Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold” (Matthew 24:11-12). This is addressing those in the Church who at one time had the love of God, but who have begun to let it slip. That’s why it says that the love of God will grow or become cold and so, presumably, it was hot at one time.

Offences can and do occur and will be a challenge for the true Church at the end of this age. The Church does not have perfect people; if it did, there would be no offences, but we know, by practical experience, that some are easily offended, some have problems in forgiving others and some will not be entreated. Peter asked Jesus about forgiving others, as recorded in Matthew 18:21-22: “Then Peter came to Him and said, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.’” This was recorded just after Jesus had given the action required for conflict resolution.

Jesus also tells us: “‘Blessed are the peacemakers’” (Matthew 5:9), not the peace-breakers, and the second part of Psalm 34:14 tells us to “seek peace and pursue it.”

In a perfect Church we wouldn’t need such guidelines, but the fact that these are recorded show that we need to learn from such examples (compare 1 Corinthians 10:11).

But do we?

It is prophesied that many will be offended, will betray one another and will hate one another; that many false prophets will rise up and deceive many; and that the love of many will grow cold. It is not a pretty picture when we put all of these end-time traits together in one sentence, but if the Bible is true as we believe it is from cover to cover, then we had better take this information seriously. Head knowledge is not enough; it needs to penetrate every fibre of our being, taking it to heart as a matter of urgency.

It has always struck me as somewhat contradictory that some who espouse the way that Jesus taught agree with the theory but have big problems with the practice. We know that our adversary is on the prowl (see 1 Peter 5:8), and he is much cleverer than we are, but with the help of God’s Holy Spirit that we received at baptism, we can successfully withstand those spiritual forces that are arrayed against us. Satan and his demons will fight furiously to throw us off track, but with God’s help we can all win through.

Of course, our human nature can be another source of trouble for us, as we may struggle with the fact that someone else may be right and we may be wrong. The thought of losing face (which is only vanity if we have to apologise) may have no appeal, and it is sheer stubbornness and contrary to the way that we have been taught, if we hold a grudge against anyone.

Why am I raising this? It is because it is prophesied to happen, and we need to be truly aware of it so that Satan cannot craftily and cleverly suck us into his wrong ways of doing things. If we do have any of the problems, or situations as mentioned in this letter, it is of paramount importance to rectify such matters immediately and bring us back in line with what God expects of each and every one of us.

What is the alternative? Such occurrences happened in the time of Christ, and this is a warning for us all: “From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve, ‘Do you also want to go away?’ But Simon Peter answered Him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life’” (John 6:66-68).

Having committed ourselves to the way of God at baptism, God expects nothing less than conforming willingly to His complete Way of Life as we read in His Word. Falling short must not be an option for us. Many have, regretfully, fallen by the wayside in the past and many more will do so in the future. We should make sure that that doesn’t happen to us. There is a lot at stake, and God is watching each one of us.

Let none of us be found wanting.

With Christian love.

Brian Gale
(United Kingdom)

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

Daniel was made aware of future events that were beyond his grasp, and he said to the angel, “‘My lord, what shall be the end of these things?’” (Daniel 12:8). Responding to statements made by Jesus, His disciples asked Him: “‘Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of your coming, and of the end of the age?’” (Matthew 24:3).

Unlike Daniel or the disciples of Jesus, we are NOW living in the time of the end which they marveled at and which is culminating into “‘“…a time of trouble, Such as never was since there was a nation”’” (Daniel 12:1). Prophecies given by God are coming to pass, and they will be completely fulfilled according to His Word!

In this light, consider the opening statements found in the Book of Revelation:

“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John, who bore witness to the word of God, and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, to all things that he saw. Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near” (Revelation 1:1-3).

The angel concluded the “Revelation” with these admonitions to John:

“Then he said to me, ‘These words are faithful and true.’ And the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show His servants the things which must shortly take place. ‘Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book’” (Revelation 22:6-7).

Also, unlike the command given to Daniel, saying, “‘…the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end’” (Daniel 12:9, John was told, “‘…Do not seal the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand’” (Revelation 22:10). Even though some prophecies still await further godly explanation (Revelation 10:1-7), the overall sequence of events and their meaning have been made known to us (You might want to read our free booklet, “Biblical Prophecy—From Now Until Forever.”).

Having received God’s calling to salvation, we believe His Word. We have come to know that events in the world are propelling us into the quagmire of unparalleled danger and suffering spoken of in so many detailed prophecies of the Bible.

Circumstances in the Church of God—among people who have been given God’s Holy Spirit—likewise attest to end-time events! On the one hand, apostasy has overwhelmed the many—those who once were viewed as faithful to the Truth of God! That insidious attack on the people of God has continued and will never cease until the return of Jesus Christ! We are warned of an ongoing apostasy in God’s Church just prior to Christ’s return—self-willed and self-righteous people will fall away from the Truth, and they will even accuse, hate and betray one another.

On the other hand, there are the few who continue in the love of God; who endure trials; who overcome the problems of this age; and who continue in the true faith and  “…grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).

Among the many prophecies that herald the close of this age and the establishing of God’s glorious Kingdom, we also have the promise Jesus Christ made regarding His Church:

“‘…I will build My church, and the gates of Hades (the grave, death) shall not prevail against it’” (Matthew 16:18).

Jesus Christ has given His Church a Work to accomplish. After its establishment on the Day of Pentecost, the Church of God began eagerly to fulfill its commission to preach the gospel of the Kingdom of God—to announce and publish the good news of God’s approaching Kingdom, and then to teach those whom God called as they were brought into the Church of God. But soon, persecution set in, and the Church had to flee and exist and survive “in hiding.” For many centuries, the true gospel was not proclaimed anymore to the world. Christ said however that the time would arrive when His Church would fulfill again its commission to preach the gospel in all the world as a witness, and then the end of this present evil age would come (Matthew 24:14). We are today living in these prophetic times.

With all confidence we know that the Church of God and its Work will continue and be abundantly successful. We know this because Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church! He did not fail in the Work God gave Him to accomplish in His first appearance—He finished it! (compare John 17:4).

He will finish His Work in our time, as well!

How is He using us to accomplish this?

The Church of the Eternal God (in the United States with its operations in Europe, including in German-speaking areas), the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship (Canada) and the Global Church of God (United Kingdom) co-exist to fulfill the Work given to the Church Jesus Christ sustains. It is through the fruit of unity in God’s Holy Spirit that we strive to be of one mind in both purpose and practice.

Building on this spirit of unity, our common charter is to avoid any compromise with the Truth of God. Because of this, God has opened the way for us to continue proclaiming His Gospel.

We understand that the future will grow worse and worse. As evil and corrupt as this world currently is, violence of an unimagined scale will lead into the period of time described as “‘…great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be’” (Matthew 24:21; compare Revelation 7:14).

We are preparing now for what lies ahead by striving all the more to be obedient servants to God. Our part in the Work of God will become more demanding, and it will require of us the kind of strength that only comes from God—the resolve by which Jesus was able to persevere so valiantly to become the Savior of the world!

In times past, many have found themselves confronted with seemingly impossible and frightening struggles, and every indication from God’s Word is that our future will likewise require the utmost faith. Yet, even with this reality looming on the horizon, God has given us promises to be able to face anything that comes! Consider these reassurances from Him.

“A thousand may fall at your side, And ten thousand at your right hand; But it shall not come near you” (Psalm 91:7).

“For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5).

And carefully note the next verse:

“So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:6).

Brethren, thank you for the bond of faith you keep as we all work to do whatever we can to stand together in the Work of God—each doing our part, whether it is seemingly little or much.

Let none of us ever lose sight of the love of the Father, for “God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased… Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually” (1 Corinthians 12:18, 27).

Be content with what God has given you; do your part faithfully and joyfully; and Christ will give you the crown of life when He returns.

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris

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Dear Members, Co-Workers and Friends:

Something remarkable about the patriarchs of the Bible is their frequent movement from one place to another. It seems like they rarely stayed in one place for very long, and wherever they did stay, they were considered to be foreigners. The Bible describes Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob each living out of tents in lands that they considered to be far from home. When Jacob fled hundreds of miles from his home, in fear of his brother Esau’s wrath, he even used a stone as a pillow to rest his head (Genesis 28:11). The eventual place to where God individually led them all—the land of Canaan—was a foreign land that He had promised to them as an inheritance. It did not become their homeland at that time. Rather, it had been occupied primarily by other people, and the patriarchs were foreigners in the land where they dwelled.

How did these men and their families feel as they made a living in a foreign and frequently hostile environment? One can only imagine that it made them quite uncomfortable. Reading about the patriarchs is useful because these records help us to consider the stark contrast between the righteous way of living instructed by God, and the environment in which we are placed to live. The patriarchs did not always live righteously; they had to learn how to live godly in an evil society. Similarly, we are here living in this world, but we are not to be a part of it. When we are called into God’s Family, when we begin to live according to the perfect law of God, and when we become baptized, we also become sanctified. That is, we are set aside for a holy purpose; we are set apart from the world where we live, just as the patriarchs were separate from the inhabitants of the land where they dwelt.

It is normally an uncomfortable feeling to be a foreigner. Ironically, this is a feeling that a true Christian needs to become comfortable with. Jesus Christ, in speaking with a prospective disciple brings this fact to light. In Matthew 8:18-20 we read, “And when Jesus saw great multitudes about Him, He gave a command to depart to the other side. Then a certain scribe came and said to Him, ‘Teacher, I will follow You wherever You go.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.’” Jesus knew that there would be occasions when He would not even have shelter. (At that time, the Samaritans, because of their hostility towards the Jews, had refused to grant Him and His disciples a place to reside because they were on their way to Jerusalem.) Jesus points this out here to emphasize that in order to fully follow Him, one must not trust in the comforts of this world. It is much more than many can manage, but it is an important step in learning to live a spiritual life. The spiritual ways of God stand diametrically opposed to the carnal ways of this world, and indeed are quite foreign. This difference is no accident, but rather, it is intentionally designed that way by God.

When we live our lives in a way that is spiritually motivated, living in obedience to God, accepting the sacrifice of Jesus Christ as an important requirement for our salvation, we take a part in the inheritance of the promise given to Abraham. This means that we too are foreigners in a strange land, citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20), and ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). If it makes us uncomfortable, like our forefathers, to be aliens in a world that is so different

than the way that we live, that’s a good thing. The world is ruled by Satan right now, and it should not be a surprise that it is hostile to the truly righteous way of life. Jesus Christ reminds us in John 15:19, “If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” When we become too comfortable in the world we live in, we need to begin asking ourselves whether we might be compromising with the truth.

Fortunately, we don’t have to live forever in a state of discomfort and frustration while we dwell in this world. The good news is that this is not our final destination. There is a better kingdom that we can expect to be established on this Earth, under the righteous rulership of Jesus Christ. At that time, we will receive the inheritance of eternal life in the Kingdom of God. It is truly something to look forward to. This vision that we have is the very same vision that was shared by the patriarchs of the Bible. They knew that they would not be foreigners for long. Hebrews 11:13-16 tells us, “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.” The city described here—the heavenly Jerusalem which will come down to a new earth—is what we look forward to.

It is important that we remember not to get wrapped up in the cares of this world, because it will pass away very soon (1 John 2:17), and give way to a much better age. If you can keep a tight grip on that valuable truth, with the faith of Christ working within you, you will have the strength that it takes to make it through anything this world might threaten you with.

Your brother in Christ

Eric Rank

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Dear Members, Co-Workers and Friends,

It is hard to believe that the Feast of Tabernacles 2013 has ended over three weeks ago. We have returned from a marvelous occasion which portrayed a time of universal peace and happiness, and we must cope now once again with trials and persecutions in this present evil world, which is ruled by Satan the devil.

In our first weekly Update after the Feast (No. 607, dated October 4), Brian Gale wrote in his Editorial: “We have just kept the Feast of Tabernacles which pictures the coming reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. Then there will be no leadership problems at all. But until then, in this world, do we have leadership problems? There’s proof galore for those with eyes to see and ears to hear!”

In the following Update (No. 608, dated October 11), Michael Link wrote in his Editorial, “How are we doing since returning from the Feast? Has that attitude we experienced just a couple of weeks ago diminished now that we are ‘back to reality?’” And in that same Update, the Q&A reminded us that it is not the task of a true Christian today to try to make this a better world, but to prepare for the time when Christ rules on earth.

In Update No. 609, dated October 17, Norbert Link warned us in his Editorial that a falling away from the truth is still prophesied to occur in the Church of God prior to Christ’s return, and that the beginning signs of that falling away can already be observed.

It is most certainly of paramount importance to take in the encouragement and admonition to not be overcome by this world, especially after we have celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles. Yet, with those thoughts in mind, we would like to reflect on the time just about three or four weeks ago when we kept the Feast, to remind us how it was, and to show us what it will be like at next year’s Feast, so we do not lose heart.

Beginning with the Feast in the USA, here is a report from Dave Harris:

The Church of the Eternal God observed the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day in Vail, Colorado. We were privileged to secure accommodations in the beautiful Lion Square Lodge, a condominium complex located alongside Gore Creek. Our meeting room was also located in this facility.

We had three dozen people attending, and one of our special highlights was being able to host one another for meals and fellowship in our condominiums. That included one evening featuring a South of the Border theme. Many ventured into Vail Village to take advantage of fine dining and shopping and a visit to the Vail Farmer’s Market on Sunday afternoon. A combination talent show and game night took place on Sunday evening, and several bravely took their turn as Karaoke entertainers.

Several commented on the very special experience of this Feast, emphasizing the fellowship and especially their appreciation for the meaningful sermonettes and sermons along with the contribution made by those giving special music.

With the Feast falling in mid-October of next year, Vail will not be an option; however, we have already begun looking at other locations in the Western United States, and we will update everyone as these plans go forward.

Turning to our Feast site in Germany, here is a combined report from Norbert Link, Rene Messier and Brian Gale:

After 16 years of having the Feast in the UK, it was decided to hold the Feast this year in Freudenstadt, a town in Baden-Württemberg in the Black Forest southern area of Germany which accommodated the many new people in Germany who are responding positively to the Church’s message. It is a beautiful area with many interesting places to visit for both the local Germans as well as those attending from the UK, USA and Canada.

In addition to our StandingWatch programs, Evangelist Norbert Link has been announcing the good news of God’s coming Kingdom in the German AufPostenStehen Internet broadcasts, as well as in weekly German sermons, for over seven years. Many new people have become interested in the message of the Church.

There were in excess of 70 zealous and enthusiastic people attending (many of whom attended the Feast of Tabernacles for the very first time). On the Last Great Day, five baptisms took place. Apart from daily services with truly inspiring and meaningful messages, Bible Studies were also held along with a bus trip, Feast dinner, a talent show and other well attended activities. Services were conducted in both English and German, with five interpreters taking it in turns to translate. On the Sabbath after the Feast, most people attended with another full house near Speyer, Germany.

The excitement of seeing so many young people and families being called provided a joyous and very happy atmosphere, and it is expected that the Feast next year may well attract many more new people. The potential growth was really inspiring to witness, as more are eagerly preparing themselves for baptism at the spring festival season next year. We also were privileged to have a blessing of little children ceremony, and Rene Messier and Brian Gale were raised in rank to Pastor on the Last Great Day.

But this is just the beginning. We expect further growth, knowing that the time is short. And so, we are preparing for great tasks ahead. In addition to our live audio broadcasts, we are also video-broadcasting some of our live Sabbath services in the USA, as well as in Germany, and people all over the world can tune in to watch and listen. Brian Gale and Rene Messier are giving their voices to StandingWatch programs for especially the British and Canadian audiences.

We are observing the fall of the United States and Great Britain and the rise of Europe under German leadership. A new booklet has been prepared, titled, “The Ten European Revivals of the Ancient Roman Empire,” which was distributed to our Feast attendees. We are pleased to enclose herewith a copy of this new booklet to our subscribers who did not attend the Feast with us (the booklets were already distributed in the UK). With this booklet, we have by now published 37 free booklets—all of which are available upon request.

We have also begun to print our German booklets, which are being posted on our German web site. We are currently printing the German version of our booklet on the Book of Revelation.

As the time of Christ’s return draws nearer, we must be about our Father’s business. Our weekly radio programs continue, as well as the publication of our weekly Updates. More and more people are responding, and with it, more attention is being given to us. Satan, the prince and ruler of this world, knows this too, and his wrath is great. He will try everything he can to create problems for us. But he will not succeed, because God, who is with us, is mightier than the god of this world.

Brethren and Friends, be aware that during these coming cold, rainy, and snowy winter months, our work is cut out for us. We must never give up, and we will not fail, when and as long as our lives are built on the foundation of Jesus Christ. When we increase in grace and knowledge of Christ, working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, waiting with anticipation for God’s rule to be established here on earth, then we have every reason to look forward to next year’s Spring and Fall Holy Day seasons—and beyond—until the reality of all that is pictured by these Festivals is fulfilled in the Kingdom of God.

With brotherly love,

Norbert Link

Dave Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

Eric Rank

Robb Harris

Michael Link