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Dear Brethren and Friends,

We are fast approaching the autumnal Holy Day season with the Feast of Trumpets on September 17 and the Day of Atonement on September 26. The people of God will also be keeping the Feast of Tabernacles at Feast sites around the world to observe this biblically commanded period of time from October 1 to 8. But I will ask the question, as many have asked in the past, how many who kept the Feast last year will be absent this year?

It appears to be a constant within the Church of God that there will be absentees for all sorts of reasons: death, illness, injury or disability, family or work-related problems or maybe even loss of faith, interest or general apathy. It is always sad to hear of those faltering in their Christian calling, particularly at a time when prophecy is being fulfilled before our very eyes. We must, however, be aware of the warning given in Matthew 24:12 where Jesus talks about the time when the “love of many will grow cold”. This describes an indifference or even hostility to the truth once embraced, as well as these same traits being aimed at faithful Church members.

There is also a warning about those who are always wanting to hear something new. In 2 Timothy 4:3 we read the following prophecy: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers…” And so, we have been warned not to be deceived. We must heed the warning, lest we fall away from God’s Church and God’s truth.

We should understand that there are many reasons or even a combination of reasons why some may be absent from the Feast this year, and if we know of someone who falls into this category, we should try and to help and encourage them if at all possible. We can certainly pray for them to overcome any barriers that may, at least to them, seem impossible to overcome but “with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26). Unfortunately, there does seem to be a very small group of “members” who could attend but simply don’t make the effort for reasons which only they may understand.

Satan is surely increasing his attack on those faithful to their true Christian calling, and we are told to be “sober and vigilant, because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Whilst this had an application to the 1st century church, it has an even greater application as we approach Christ’s Second Coming.

Satan accomplishes this through many strategies, including stirring up strife between brethren and through the subtlety of erroneous teachings being introduced which can, and does, create controversy and argument.

This is especially tragic as the prophetic times ahead of us are drawing nearer, culminating in the glorious return of Jesus Christ. Let us look at the situation in the United Kingdom, to explain what we mean.

Now that the London 2012 Olympic Games, held all over the United Kingdom, have finished,
reality has set in again. It was 16 days of blanket coverage in the news media and simply a boon for the insatiable 24 hour rolling news broadcasts channels. Indeed, it was like “manna from heaven” for them and they took full advantage of the situation. By the end of the Olympics, a comment was made that Team GB had triumphantly over-delivered and the economy had done exactly the opposite.

The Governor of the Bank of England, Mervyn King, said last month that “I don’t think we’re in a position to forecast what will happen in the Euro area and, therefore, we are in no accurate position to know what will happen in the UK.” If a man in such a senior financial position doesn’t know, it doesn’t augur well for the country.

Mr. King wrote the following after the Games had concluded: “By spreading happiness and good cheer the Games have made us all feel better. And, who knows, the impact on confidence may give the economy a boost. But ultimately the Games cannot alter the underlying economic situation we face. If the rest of the world were growing normally, the rebalancing and recovery of our economy would be much easier. But it isn’t. Even the rapidly expanding emerging market economies are slowing, and the problems of the euro area continue with no obvious end in sight.”

With yet another downward forecast now indicating a zero per cent growth—at best—for 2012 in the UK, the view is that the country is in for a very difficult time. That is something the Church has been forecasting for years.

One British newspaper commented that “Now the Olympic party is over. Given the fun the nation has had over the past two weeks, it is inevitable that a hangover will follow. Soon, the BBC News will return to relentless tales of recession, the euro zone debt crisis, cuts and gloom rather than sporting heroism. Ministers will have to put down their plastic flags and return to the grind of trying, finally, to find a formula for economic growth.”

These comments are puerile to say the least; the government has been trying for some time to deal with an increasingly faltering economy but without much success. They simply don’t have the answers.

But now that this temporary “fun” has finished, the hard, cold reality of making ends meet in a very poor economic climate is taking hold again for the man in the street. This light relief was but for a short time and certainly gave a “lift” to the nation but now more serious considerations will have to be met by those suffering from financial hardship or difficulties. It was certainly a very welcome diversion for the government and politicians, but only for a brief moment in time. The costs of the Olympics Games were enormous although the financial commitment by the nation, when awarded the Games in 2005, was made in a different financial climate to today, and the government expects a return on that investment in the coming years.

And before the Olympics, we had the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations which again occupied an enormous amount of newspaper print, television and radio time and the attention of most of the nation.  It was as if reality had been suspended with a constant diet of “news” that bore little resemblance to what was really going on and will probably lead to dire consequences for the world.

Focusing on other areas in the world, the problems in Syria and the Middle East have not suddenly disappeared, nor have the consequences of Iran’s actions with their nuclear ambitions, but you
may have been forgiven for thinking so as the media, especially in the UK, concentrated on these other distractions. In our weekly Updates, different sources have been quoted regularly about the possibility, or as some would see it, the probability, of a war between Israel and Iran, and within the next couple of months. We quoted the “Times of Israel” which wrote on August 20 that “Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ‘is determined to attack Iran before the US elections,’ Israel’s Channel 10 News claimed on Monday night, and Israel is now ‘closer than ever’ to a strike designed to thwart Iran’s nuclear drive.”

Apart from the tensions in the Middle East, and elsewhere, economic problems are deep rooted and persist, not only in the UK but, it seems, in all nations around the globe. Everywhere we see problems. A recent newspaper report said that “Across the agricultural heartland of the US, the worst drought in at least 50 years is shriveling crops, baking pastures and running livestock farmers out of business.”

Add to that the moral decay which is usually viewed as “progress” and for those who have eyes to see, they are able to discern what a state the world is in. The blessings and cursings of Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28 have been ignored and dismissed by an “enlightened” society which thinks that they know better than God. Time, and decisive action by God, will prove otherwise. Winston Churchill said in his address to the Congress of the United States on December 26, 1941: “I will say that he must indeed have a blind soul who cannot see that some great purpose and design is being worked out here below.” Unfortunately, all the current world leadership fit into this unfortunate category of not being able to see God’s purpose being worked out here below.

This world has very little hope and only temporary and brief solutions to the insurmountable problems that are engulfing the whole world. What is needed is a new type of government that does have the answers and we know that that time cannot be too far away. However, it will not be brought about by the intellect, abilities and actions of infallible man but by the supernatural intervention of Jesus Christ.

As we approach the upcoming Holy Days which foreshadow the return of Christ, the putting away of Satan for a 1,000 years and the Millennial rule of Christ, Church members who stay faithful can have hope for the future that the world at large can only dream of. Attending the Feast of Tabernacles gives us the opportunity of being with other “called out ones”—those of like mind and with the same goals and aspirations. How blessed we are to have been called at this time to be a part of the first and better resurrection (Hebrews 11:35).

At our two Feast sites, in Pismo Beach, California, USA, and Deganwy in North Wales, we will have available for all attendees our new booklet “Middle Eastern and African Nations in Bible Prophecy”, together with the Feast of Tabernacles newspaper that we have been working on for about four months. This has assumed that the date of the newspaper is twenty years into the Millennium and many fine contributions have been received from members. We hope that these two items will add greatly to your Feast enjoyment.

With Christian love,

Brian Gale
(United Kingdom)

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

This is an extremely dangerous time for Christians!

The assaults which are prophesied to arise against the followers of Christ at the end of the age are only now in their beginning stages. As we have reported in our weekly Updates, religious persecution, especially in parts of Africa, has led to bloodshed. What is notable is that people who claim Christianity as their faith are being singled out in attacks from strident Islamic extremists.

In Europe—particularly, Germany—religious Jews, who maintain the practice of circumcision, are finding themselves at odds with a court decision which criminalizes such procedures (this also affects Moslems who observe a similar custom). This is happening in conjunction with other nations, such as Austria and Switzerland, and also with France, which is prohibiting the wearing of certain kinds of religious dress.

Now, while this may seem remote to us, the implications could not be more ominous! We must realize that persecutions of religious minorities, such as the Jews, will also be directed, in time, against members of God’s Church.

Jesus Christ very specifically spoke of what would be happening in the time just before His return to the earth, and He warned of persecution: “‘Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake’” (Matthew 24:9).

Since being called by God and becoming a part of the Church of God, we have all lived in anticipation of these things happening. We have also been taught that God will help us to endure whatever we face—and that is borne out in 1 Corinthians 10:13:

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

However, the very great peril we face today is the challenge of enduring faithfully in our calling—it is the extreme danger of the moment!

The Bible addresses this when we find statements such as: “‘…he who endures to the end shall be saved’” (Matthew 24:13); “by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor and immortality…” (Romans 2:7); “…hold fast that word which I preached to you—unless you believed in vain” (I Corinthians 15:2); “…hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end’ (Hebrews 3:14); “And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end…” (Hebrews 6:11); “…not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some…” (Hebrews 10:25); and, showing the certainty of the promise of our salvation by these words: “‘…those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful’” (Revelation 17:14).

We are living in the “lull before the storm”! For most of us, life is filled with the so-called normal things of family, work and personal activities. Added to this are our trials of poor health, of conflicts with others, of discouragement—and the list grows!

Throughout all of this, though, our challenge is that of preparing to become Spirit-born sons and daughters of God. We must not let down! In fact, Jesus strongly warned that His disciples should WATCH and BE READY for His return (compare Matthew 24:42, 44; 25:10, 13).

Ask yourself—are you FERVENT about God’s calling and about your involvement in the Work of God given to the Church—which is the ongoing Work of Jesus Christ as the Head of the Church of God?

Note what Jesus Christ said:

“‘He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.  And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.’” (Matthew 10:37-39).

Also, we have this warning from the apostle John:

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:15-17).

Faith was an integral constant in the life of Jesus Christ. He depended on the Father, and He even said that His accomplishments—His strength—all came from God (compare John 5:19, 30; 6:38; 8:28; 12:49; and 14:10).

Brethren and friends, if we—like Jesus Christ—willingly, with an open and obedient heart look to God our Father and learn to serve Him with absolute trust, we will not stumble or fail—not now, not ever!

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris

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Dear Members, Co-Workers and Friends,

How close are we to the day of Christ’s return? Of course, we do not know for sure (Matthew 24:44; 25:13), and we should never attempt to set dates—not even speculative dates—but we are encouraged to observe the signs of the time (Matthew 16:2-3) to determine whether or not the day is near (Matthew 24:32-34). Sadly, before Christ can come back, terrible events will have to occur first, described in the Bible as the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord.

Even though some in God’s Church will be protected at a place of safety here on earth (Revelation 12:13-16), others will have to experience unparalleled persecution and even martyrdom (Revelation 12:17; 6:9-11). But Paul said that all who want to live godly will suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12)—even prior to the end of this present evil age. And increasing religious persecution of the faithful is one indication of impending frightful days of such magnitude “such as not have been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be” (Matthew 24:21).

We should be able to see that religious intolerance and rejection of godly standards are on an unparalleled rise in, especially, the Western World, including the USA, Canada, the UK and continental Europe. In Isaiah 5:20, God pronounces a curse on those “who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter.” In these last days, we see how this wrong standard of reversed values has terribly increased—under the influence of Satan the devil, of course, who is deceiving the whole world (Revelation 12:9). His wrath is great because he knows that his days of deception are numbered (Revelation 12:12). He transforms himself into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), putting “darkness for light,” and inspires his ministers to pretend to be ministers of righteousness (2 Corinthians 11:15), calling “evil good, and good evil.” Since this is so, we are not told today, including in our many “Christian” churches, what is good and holy and right in God’s eyes (Ezekiel 22:26); rather, we are told that those things which are abhorred by God are good, and that righteous conduct which is upheld by God is evil.

Just look around and note what is going on in our sophisticated “civilized” and “enlightened” world. God condemns homosexual practices, adultery and fornication (i.e., pre-marital sex). Our societies tolerate or even welcome all of them. God condemns wars and abortions; but we have been led to believe that these are necessary—or sometimes even welcome—to deal with our personal and national situations. God condemns pagan worship and insists instead in keeping His weekly and annual Sabbaths—but Satan has deceived nominal Christianity to abolish God’s Holy Days and replace them with holidays which are derived from pagans. Rather than remembering the weekly Sabbath to keep it holy, we are told to forget the Sabbath and keep Sunday holy instead. Rather than worshipping God on His annual Holy Days, we are asked to profane God’s holy name by neglecting His days and observing instead, “in God’s honor,” pagan days such as Christmas and Easter. Yes, indeed, religious teachers encourage us to reject the commandments of God so that we can keep our human traditions (Mark 7:6-9).

God tells us that it is wrong to ever physically abuse a child, but that it is right on rare occasions to spank our little children, in a balanced and loving way (Proverbs 29:15). However, man, in his own God-defying wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:20) has determined that even light spanking is always wrong and must be rejected. And now, physical circumcision—even though not required today for Christians, but most certainly not prohibited in Scripture—has been declared by a German court as constituting physical abuse of young children and a crime, and to the shame of many Germans and others, this abominable decision has been embraced and applauded.

Worldly courts in our Western societies have begun to interpret or enforce laws against “hate crimes,” by prohibiting sermons of ministers who are willing to teach the clear doctrines of the Holy Bible and threatening those ministers with fines and jail terms. Mind you, we are not talking about dictatorial countries such as China or Russia, or certain Muslim societies, but our so-called Christian nations in our Western world.

We can expect these kinds of persecutions to continue and increase in frequency and power, testing all of us as to whom we are willing to obey more—God or man (Acts 5:29)? In some “Christian” countries, parents are being confronted with mandatory school attendance laws, prohibiting homeschooling and requiring them to violate their religious conviction regarding the sanctity of the Sabbath and the annual Holy Days, and to send their children on these days to school or kindergarten. In other countries, there are no exceptions to compulsory military service. Will those being drafted have the spiritual strength to obey God and not do anything, which would violate the letter or the spirit of the law against killing?

Some countries require of their citizens to vote in governmental elections or to serve on a jury. Will those called upon to do so have the spiritual strength to obey God and not participate in such conduct, which is clearly prohibited in Scripture? Many face difficulties on their jobs, as employers will try to persuade their employees, who are opposed to working on the Sabbath, to give in “just a little,” as this “important task” will “have to be done” on the Sabbath. It will take wisdom as to how to approach and handle such situations, but since giving in just a little will always lead to more compromise and violations of God’s laws, the bottom line will always have to be: Are we willing to obey God rather than man, even in “little things”—no matter what the consequences?

The fact is, we are not living in a godly world. No country is godly or righteous in God’s eyes. We all have rejected God and turned our backs on Him (Romans 3:9-18). We are all under Satan’s influence, and it is GOD who must call us out of this world, including our country’s politics and agendas. The Babylonian system permeates the entire world, and we are admonished to “Come out of her, my people” (Revelation 18:4), and not to touch anything which is unclean (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). In doing this, we will be persecuted by man and man’s governments, but Christ says that we are blessed when this happens (Matthew 5:10-12). By remaining a part of the systems, philosophies and politics of this evil world, upholding its standards instead of God’s values, we might retain our “friends” and avoid some persecution from man, but we won’t ever become a friend of God and Christ (James 4:4; John 15:14) and will have to experience the wrath of God in His due time (Romans 2:5-11).

As we observe the increasing darkness which permanently surrounds us, we must become bright and observable lights shining in this evil world (Philippians 2:15), and as God’s Church, we must continue, with ever increasing strength which God will give us, to proclaim the good news to the world as a witness (Matthew 24:14). We realize that Satan, the prince of darkness, has blinded the minds of most and that the gospel is veiled to them, preventing that the “light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them” (2 Corinthians 4:4). Still, we must continue to do the Work of proclaiming the good news of the coming restoration of all things (Acts 3:21), when Christ returns to end Satan’s rule and establish the Kingdom of God on this earth.

As we progress in our godly endeavors, we will experience persecution from man under Satan’s rule, but it will all be worth it. In the end, God will crush Satan under our feet (Romans 16:20), and we will assist Christ in ruling this world righteously and godly, applying God’s uncompromising and unalterable standards, defining what is holy and unholy, right and wrong, clean and unclean, and good and evil (Ezekiel 44:23-24). Let’s make sure that we don’t become indifferent today towards our individual and collective responsibilities, because we will soon reap everlasting life, if we don’t lose heart (Galatians 6:8-9).

With brotherly love,

Norbert Link

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Dear Members, Co-Workers, and Friends,

Thank you.

The mere fact that you’re reading this letter means that you have supported the work of the Church of the Eternal God in the United States, the Church of God – A Christian Fellowship in Canada, the Global Church of God in the United Kingdom, and its additional affiliations and outlets, such as Die Kirche des Ewigen Gottes in Germany, and our StandingWatch programs. Whether through financial contributions, notes of encouragement to the ministry, attendance at Sabbath services and Feasts, heartfelt prayers for the Work, or the simple consumption of the media produced for preaching the Gospel, your participation is what allows the Church to exist and fulfill the commission set before us. Thank you for your continued support. We want to make sure that you know it is tremendously appreciated.

The reason that your help and support are important is that God’s Work cannot happen in a vacuum by the independent labor of individuals without organizations. Big things are best accomplished when multiple people are involved, working together in the same spirit of righteous collaboration. By working together to promote and perform the Work of the Church, we help to fulfill the commandment of love for God and love for others. You might ask, how does that work? The answer is quite simple. By working together to support the Work of the Church of God, we actively participate in efforts to benefit the well-being and salvation of people other than ourselves. The outgoing concern for others is the definition of love.

Because the Gospel is to be preached to the entire world as a witness, fulfilling such a commission requires organization, cooperation and collaboration with each other, so that work can be performed as efficiently and effectively as possible. Individual efforts without affiliation have limited impact, and many times serve only to benefit a single person—ourselves. How much can we really do by ourselves? It is true that we are responsible for working out our own salvation, but the Bible is clear in the instruction to have active love for others as well. We all show our concern for others when we pray for one another, and when we support the Church to organize and execute the plans to feed the flock and preach the Gospel. By supporting, encouraging, and otherwise helping the ministry and the mission of the Church, we actively express the outward concern for others. This is something we can’t take lightly. 1 Corinthians 10:24 reminds us: “Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being.” We build something up much greater than ourselves by actively doing this. Thank you for taking advantage of opportunities you have. We know that it is not always easy.

Paul expressed his thanks for the brethren in a similar way, because he too needed support in the work he performed. He took the commission to preach the Gospel and feed the flock to heart, travelling extensively to get the Word of God out to those who had not yet learned the amazing plan of God. He also worked very hard to help the converted believers to continue in their growth. Paul didn’t do this on his own accord and could not have, even if he had tried. Paul acknowledged the need to involve others in the Work, whether as ministers, as hosts during his visits, as travel companions, or importantly, as converted believers changing their lives. To the Philippians he memorialized his appreciation. In Philippians 1:3-6 Paul writes, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ…”

As converted members of the Family of God, we are part of something tremendously important. Individually and collectively, we are part of the good Work that God will complete, as Paul wrote to the Philippians. His Kingdom will be established here on Earth, and we, as part of the Body of Christ, have a responsibility to help this message to be published and broadcast and delivered to those ready and willing to receive it. Understanding that this is true—that God is working with us right now—is the first step for us all. Understanding how we can put this fact into action in our daily lives is the next.

A good place to start is by continuing in the support of other believers and the Church. Growing in our knowledge of the truth and sharpening each other’s understanding when we meet together is a simple thing to do. By sticking together, with a unity in purpose, we become stronger as individuals and as an organized entity. Solomon wrote about the virtue of cooperation and working together in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, “Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”

This should encourage us that when we simply support one another and support the Church by reading, listening, watching, praying, meeting together and sharing, we actively strengthen others and the Church. We hope that you believe in your heart that your participation is of vital importance to the Work of the Church of God. Without your working to grow and care for others, with whom you come in contact, the Work of God cannot be as effective as it must be. Thank you for what you already do. Please continue and grow in it! Your efforts are not fruitless, but are appreciated tremendously. Keep up the Good Work!

In Christian love,

Eric Rank

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

This is an extremely dangerous time for Christians!

The assaults which are prophesied to arise against the followers of Christ at the end of the age are only now in their beginning stages. As we have reported in our weekly Updates, religious persecution, especially in parts of Africa, has led to bloodshed. What is notable is that people who claim Christianity as their faith are being singled out in attacks from strident Islamic extremists.

In Europe—particularly, Germany—religious Jews, who maintain the practice of circumcision, are finding themselves at odds with a court decision which criminalizes such procedures (this also affects Moslems who observe a similar custom). This is happening in conjunction with other nations, such as Austria and Switzerland, and also with France, which is prohibiting the wearing of certain kinds of religious dress.

Now, while this may seem remote to us, the implications could not be more ominous! We must realize that persecutions of religious minorities, such as the Jews, will also be directed, in time, against members of God’s Church.

Jesus Christ very specifically spoke of what would be happening in the time just before His return to the earth, and He warned of persecution: “‘Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake’” (Matthew 24:9).

Since being called by God and becoming a part of the Church of God, we have all lived in anticipation of these things happening. We have also been taught that God will help us to endure whatever we face—and that is borne out in 1 Corinthians 10:13:

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

However, the very great peril we face today is the challenge of enduring faithfully in our calling—it is the extreme danger of the moment!

The Bible addresses this when we find statements such as: “‘…he who endures to the end shall be saved’” (Matthew 24:13); “by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor and immortality…” (Romans 2:7); “…hold fast that word which I preached to you—unless you believed in vain” (I Corinthians 15:2); “…hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end’ (Hebrews 3:14); “And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end…” (Hebrews 6:11); “…not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some…” (Hebrews 10:25); and, showing the certainty of the promise of our salvation by these words: “‘…those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful’” (Revelation 17:14).

We are living in the “lull before the storm”! For most of us, life is filled with the so-called normal things of family, work and personal activities. Added to this are our trials of poor health, of conflicts with others, of discouragement—and the list grows!

Throughout all of this, though, our challenge is that of preparing to become Spirit-born sons and daughters of God. We must not let down! In fact, Jesus strongly warned that His disciples should WATCH and BE READY for His return (compare Matthew 24:42, 44; 25:10, 13).

Ask yourself—are you FERVENT about God’s calling and about your involvement in the Work of God given to the Church—which is the ongoing Work of Jesus Christ as the Head of the Church of God?

Note what Jesus Christ said:

“‘He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.  And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.’” (Matthew 10:37-39).

Also, we have this warning from the apostle John:

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:15-17).

Faith was an integral constant in the life of Jesus Christ. He depended on the Father, and He even said that His accomplishments—His strength—all came from God (compare John 5:19, 30; 6:38; 8:28; 12:49; and 14:10).

Brethren and friends, if we—like Jesus Christ—willingly, with an open and obedient heart look to God our Father and learn to serve Him with absolute trust, we will not stumble or fail—not now, not ever!

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris

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Dear Members, Co-workers and Friends,

We have just concluded our annual Church conference in the greater San Diego area. Though it was a time for the entire ministry to catch up with one another and the brethren from the local area, there was a sense of “getting business done” even more so than usual.

As we went through the agenda, there seemed to be a sharpened focus on accomplishing what has been placed before us. Without saying it, everyone knows that time is short, and the need to witness to the world and help the bride to get ready has become that much more pressing.

In going through the items that needed to be discussed and taken care of, there was a business-like approach to addressing the issues thoroughly and succinctly, creating action items if necessary, and then moving on to the next matter at hand. God did indeed answer the prayers you sent up before the conference as well as those given during it. Thank you!

Reports on all the areas were given with some very exciting news coming out of Germany. At the moment, we are experiencing a great deal of interest. The StandingWatch program in German (AufPostenStehen) along with the German video sermons are bearing much fruit in the way of questions, requests for literature and, most importantly, many baptism inquiries.

It really goes to show what we already know… we are to do the planting and watering, but it is God who gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6).

A theme that emerged throughout different topics and conversations was the need to hold fast to the truth and to preach the gospel as it was delivered to us and as Christ gave it. It is the charter of our organization and one of the hallmarks that differentiates us from others. To change or deviate from it in the slightest is to cause others to receive a different gospel (2 Corinthians 11:4; Galatians 1:6-8).

Our desire in our commission to preach the gospel and feed the flock is to heed Paul’s words to Timothy: “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). That we must do even “when they will not endure sound doctrine” (verse 3) and when “they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables” (verse 4). Though we know God’s Word will not always be received, it is incumbent upon us to expound it continuously and accurately to those whom God has entrusted and brought to us.

It is always our hope that God will call people to become members of His Church—that they may become future sons and daughters in the Family of God.

It is now the time of the year for those of us who are begotten members of the Family of God to be focusing on the first annual feast of the year—Passover. Even though we look at ourselves throughout the year, questioning the godliness of our thoughts and actions, this is a period for deeper introspection.

By the power that we were imbued with during the laying on of hands after baptism, we are to weed out the carnality that does not belong and is contrary to God. Our efforts, along with God’s help, are to make us right with God in preparation for the soon-coming return of Christ.

The Passover is a memorial—we must never forget this and the fact that Jesus gave His life blood and body for us. He laid down His life, becoming the ultimate Passover Sacrifice, so that we may have the forgiveness, reconciliation, freedom, justification, and healing that have now been afforded us.

After having accepted what Christ did for us and therefore having buried the old man with our old ways, we are to continue to remove sin from our lives. The following Days of Unleavened Bread picture this and the replacement of sin (symbolized by leavened bread) with Christ’s righteousness of a sinless life (represented by the unleavened bread).

These days are packed with meaning that will enrich our lives immeasurably. We need to be resolute in our approach, in order that we may make the most of the eternal opportunities that are currently set before us. Brethren, we hope and pray that we are up to this challenge.

With brotherly love,

Norbert Link

Dave Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

Eric Rank

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

There were so many significant events that occurred in 2011. One of those was the desire of many to change the political structure in their own country. We can all remember the “Arab Spring,” which started in Tunisia, swept to Egypt and soon encompassed a number of other nations in the Middle East area. It was a domino effect that established that many were unhappy with the leadership their governments had shown.

On December 17, 2011, Kim Jong-il, who had ruled North Korea since 1994, died of a heart attack, and his son, Kim Jong-un, was accepted as his successor. At the funeral in late December, television programs showed scenes of mass hysteria and grief from mourners, many of whom were very young. Perhaps they were not aware of the appalling record of Kim Jong-il who was named as number 2 in a list of tyrants in a book entitled, “The World’s 20 Worst Living Dictators,” which was written by David Wallechinsky. Or maybe they were “planted” in the crowd to bolster the credibility of this small state, where their people have never known freedom.

On October 20, 2011, Muammar al-Qaddafi was shot dead. He is listed at number 11 in Mr Wallechinsky’s book. He had been the leader of the North African nation of Libya since 1969, and his acts of terrorism were numerous.

Apart from Muammar al-Qaddafi and Kim Jong-il, there are 18 other dictators who are exposed for what they are in Mr Wallechinsky’s book, and it is interesting, but not edifying reading. Whilst there may be a smooth transition of power in North Korea, many other nations are now having severe internal problems with their people who say that they are not prepared to stand for more of the same. Expectations were high by those protesting, and by many commentators, who may have thought that Western-style democracy would soon be introduced, but that is surely looking more and more like wishful thinking. It may be that those who espouse Sharia law may well take the place of some of those who have been ousted from power; but whatever happens, problems certainly won’t be eradicated in those countries overnight. In fact, biblical prophecy shows that further problems are just ahead for the world at large.

It is an historically undisputed fact that many despots have ruled down through the ages. One of the great motivations is the lust for power, and there never seems to be a dearth of those who fit the bill. The 20th and 21st centuries have provided their fair share of such leaders.

We want to move on to mention just five individuals who will have tremendous impact on the world at some time in the near future.

The first of these is the Beast (Revelation 17:8) who will be a charismatic leader of 10 European nations or groups of nations. In our booklet “The Fall and Rise of Britain and America,” we state the following on page 40, under the heading “The Coming European Superpower”:

“The United States, Great Britain and the State of Israel in the Middle East will suffer at the hands of the rising superpower which is now developing in Europe. Scripture identifies the superpower as the prophesied seventh and last revival of the Holy Roman Empire in the form of ten nations or groups of nations. Europe will be led by an Assyrian king (‘King Jareb’), that is, by a powerful German-speaking leader. God will use Europe and especially the modern Assyrian ‘king’ to punish modern Israel and Judah for their spiritual treachery toward Him.”

The second individual will be the False Prophet who will work hand in hand with the Beast. Our booklet “Europe in Prophecy” has this to say on page 12, under the heading “The Scarlet Beast”:

“In Revelation 17, the Apostle John is given a vision of a different beast than the one in chapter 13—this one being a scarlet beast but also having seven heads and ten horns. The most striking difference, however, is that the scarlet beast is ridden by a woman—a harlot. Revelation 17:5 identifies the woman as ‘mystery, Babylon the great, the mother of harlots and of the abominations of the earth.’ This woman is depicted in verse 6 as drunk with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. In verse 18 the woman is also identified as that great city that reigns over the kings of the earth, the city that sits on seven mountains (v. 9). Though here called Babylon, the famed City
of Seven Hills is the city of Rome!—successor to ancient Babylon politically, militarily,
economically and religiously. It is this city that rides the scarlet beast with the seven heads and the ten horns. The seven heads of the Beast are seven kings or seven kingdoms (v. 10). These are successive kingdoms, one following the other. Five have already fallen, one is, and the last one has not yet arrived.”

The Beast and the False Prophet will work in tandem for a short while, but at the same time, two other individuals will also be at work. They are the Two Witnesses who will have tremendous power for 3½ years—during the time of the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord. We read in Revelation 11:3-6:

“‘And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.’ These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the earth. And if anyone wants to harm them, fire proceeds from their mouth and devours their enemies. And if anyone wants to harm them, he must be killed in this manner. These two witnesses have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire.”

When these two very powerful witnesses have finished their testimony, they will be killed after 3½ years, but they will be resurrected after 3½ days (verses 7 and 11).

These 3½ years will be a very interesting but dangerous time. They will lead to some great news that the Church of God has been anticipating for many years.

The fifth individual we want to mention is the most powerful of them all—Jesus Christ—Who will return to clean up all the mess that human beings have made over the last 6,000 years. It will be a wonderful time when the tyrants, despots and dictators will become a thing of the past. No more injustice, no more terrorism, no more subjugating the masses of people and no more false worship either of men or of false gods.

Many leaders over the last 6,000 years have made quite an impact—either for good or for bad. But we are now awaiting these five individuals to appear in their due time, and they will have an unprecedented impact on humanity. Satan will raise the Beast and the False Prophet and give them his powers. They will be extremely popular in this Satan-inspired and -deceived world. On the other hand, God will raise the Two Witnesses who will not be popular, but their power will be given to them by God! All of them will appear at a time of trouble as never before (Daniel 12:1).

And then Christ returns. And it is His return that should be in our daily prayers.

With Christian love,

Brian Gale
(United Kingdom)

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

We find ourselves watching the upheaval of nations all over the earth—in ways that are historically unprecedented! At its core, the issue is about who will govern—who really should have the
final say.

The Middle East and northern Africa are continuing to be restive as various power-blocs vie for absolute control. Europe has witnessed the realignment of governments that have proven too weak to manage devastating financial woes—leading to angry demonstrations and nation-wide strikes. The United States, facing out-of-control national debt, is entering what will surely prove to be a volatile and rancorous presidential campaign throughout the coming months.

Anywhere we might care to look, governments are falling short, and despite grandiose claims by every new leader or administration, those who rule over others ultimately fail!

That is the bad news of human history, and it is the sordid reality for the generation in which we now find ourselves living!

Into this mix, God has, from generation to generation, given confirmation of His own plans for government on the earth. It is a government that already exists, and emissaries have been actively proclaiming its establishment as the ultimate solution for rulership over mankind.

It is from this perspective that we must learn to view our calling from God!

We have been chosen to be “ambassadors for Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:20); we are “witnesses” of the message given by Jesus Christ (Luke 24:48; Acts 1:8; 5:32)—the gospel of the Kingdom of God; and, importantly, we are to live apart from direct involvement with the governments of this age—living as “strangers and pilgrims on the earth” (Hebrews 11:13; compare Revelation 18:4).

Jesus Christ exhorted His followers to remain constantly vigilant and focused on God’s Kingdom. In His instruction given regarding prayer, an introductory theme is presented this way: “‘Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:9-10). Jesus instructed us: “‘But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you’” (Matthew 6:33).

It is by diligently doing exactly this throughout our lives, that we are able to live in the world but to also be separate from it. In this context, Paul writes:

“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” (Romans 12:2).

The apostle John gives this admonition:

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the
Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:15-17).

Brethren, God’s calling—as we have come to deeply understand—involves qualifying to be rulers—the governing officials—in His Kingdom and under Jesus Christ. We are being trained now for positions within the Kingdom of God—as those who have preceded us in the Church of God and even from earlier times also have been trained (compare Revelation 2 and 3).

Tragically, some have rejected God’s calling—choosing, rather, to embrace what this age—ruled ultimately by Satan—has to offer. And as I discussed at the outset, this world is embroiled in governments that support violence, greed and every evil that can be imagined!

Our opportunities in being called now are truly beyond what we can even anticipate or hope for, and they stand in complete contrast to anything else that could possibly be offered. Yet, we are able to catch inspiring glimpses of what lies ahead, because we are anxious to obey God, and He is revealing to His Church a degree of understanding about His great Master Plan!

I am always struck by what Paul said some two thousand years ago in encouraging the brethren of his day to take stock of themselves and not to let down—rather, to zealously anticipate their salvation in God’s great ruling Kingdom:

“And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our
salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand.
Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts” (Romans 13:11-14).

When we do this, we can be confident that our entrance into God’s everlasting Kingdom will be supplied to us abundantly (2 Peter 1:10-11)—and that in the not-too-distant future.

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris

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Dear Brethren, Co-Workers and Friends:

We have just finished observing the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day, and we will cherish and embrace fond memories, while already anticipating with eagerness next year’s autumn festivals. It is good and right to reflect on the joyful time which we all experienced during the Feast, and so, we are publishing below two reports from our Feast sites in California and North Wales.

Church of the Eternal God Feast Report 2011

According to all reports and comments received, this was indeed the best Feast ever—so far. We observed the Feast at Pismo Beach in a most beautiful facility (at the Hilton Garden Inn) and an outstanding environment. We welcomed attendees from the USA, Germany and Bermuda, and enjoyed inspiring messages focusing on the wonderful future of the Millennium and the Great White Throne Judgment. Some of the topics were “Why Do We Keep the Feast?”, “Before Time Began,” “How It Will Be in the Millennium,” “Create or Destroy,” “Why Is God Calling You Now,” “Eye of a Needle,” “The Strong and Weak,” “The Nations,” “Unity,” “A Plan of Judgment,” “Your Future Life,” and “Life After Death,” among others.

Speakers included ministers Norbert Link, Dave Harris and Eric Rank; deacons Michael Link and Robb Harris; as well as Gilbert DeVaux, Kalon Mitchell, Bob Bourque and Joe Bourque.

Additional spiritual highlights were the ordination of Shelly Bruno as deaconess and the blessing of the little children ceremony.

For relaxation, we enjoyed a spectacular dinner dance, a diverse talent show, a wine tasting tour, and other activities, including a beach party (followed by a bible study) and attending the Farmer’s Market in San Luis Obispo after the first annual Holy Day.

As usual, it was felt that the Feast was far too short, and many commented that they can’t wait for the Feast next year.

Global Church of God Feast Report 2011

The Global Church of God in the UK held the Feast of Tabernacles this year at Deganwy near Llandudno in North Wales. This was the second year that this site has been used after a very successful festival at the same venue last year. Services were again held at the Quay Hotel where it overlooks the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Conwy Castle. The hotel has wonderful views and is located within easy reach of Snowdonia National Park and close to the neighbouring medieval town of Conwy and Victorian Llandudno.

New visitors were warmly welcomed along with many who have become regular attendees. There were attendees from the USA, Canada, Australia as well as from different parts of the UK. During the Feast, Ivan Parker was baptised adding another begotten member to the Family of God. He responded to an advertisement a while ago and has been studying the truth for a few years. He did not have any Church of God background.

As end time prophecy is being fulfilled in many ways as the world seems to lurch from one crisis to another, there was a heightened sense of expectation and looking forward to the soon-coming Kingdom of God. There were outstanding messages from Evangelist Norbert Link whose sermon was a DVD presentation, messages from visiting elder Rene Messier from Canada, pastor Dave Harris (on DVD), as well as Andrew Burns, Douglas Mitchell and Brian Gale, the Festival Elder. There were also two presentations of the “StandingWatch” program in which Norbert Link addresses world news and prophecy.

Messages included such diverse topics as Spiritual Rejuvenation, The Sabbath—A Delight, Endurance, Godly Wealth, The Unprofitable Servant, Truth, Why Are We Here?, Unity, Our Inheritance, The Millennium, Prayer, After Christ’s Return, Relationships, What Will Israel Do in the Millennium?, Home, No One Missed—and others.

Of course, the main reason for attending the Feast is that God has instructed His people to do so, but other activities were organised for all the members. A Church social was arranged and enjoyed by all as well and the Feast dinner held at the Conwy Golf Club which was a great success, as it was last year. An organised coach [bus] tour visited a number of places in the Snowdonia region, including Caernarfon Castle which is a medieval building in Gwynedd, north-west Wales, which was used for the investiture of Prince Charles as the Prince of Wales in 1969. An organised tour was arranged where the guide said that it was not a castle but was in fact a royal palace. The countryside in the area is amongst the most beautiful that can be found in the British Isles.

Even though we were revisiting the area, there are always so many things to see and seemingly too little time to do so! As ever, the Feast was over all too soon and time to return home. Those who attended will not soon forget a Feast with much spiritual teaching and encouragement in an area of beauty, peace and serenity. Comments were made about the best Feast for years and the brotherly love that was so evident. Meeting others of a like mind and with the same goals is always a wonderful experience, and we are all now waiting for the Feast of Tabernacles to become reality when Christ returns to set up the Kingdom of God in what we hope is in the not too distant future!

We don’t know how many Feasts we will be able to observe until Christ returns. We are not setting any dates, but from the parable of the fig tree (Matthew 24:32-35), we know that it cannot be that far off. We see tumultuous events occurring in the Middle East—with the Arab Spring becoming more and more a nightmare of a Cold Winter for Europe and the Western democratic powers. In spite of or because of the temporary financial and economic troubles in Europe, a powerful autocratic United States of Europe is forming on the continent, which will ultimately give rise to a political leader over ten European core nations or groups of nations, who, together with a religious “miracle”-working “prophet,” will deceitfully mesmerize the masses; and we know that when these two personages manifest themselves on the world scene, the Great Tribulation is just around the corner.

At the same time, we see the continuing downfall of the US economy and the US dollar and the lack of successful leadership; and we realize that none of the many promises of presidential candidates will substantially improve the situation, even if those representations were carried out, because the USA has reached the point of no return, as its people are unwilling to obey the true God of the Bible. The same can be said for the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and other English-speaking Commonwealth nations, as we observe the steady and continuing ungodliness and defiance of the Word of God in those countries as well.

Knowing all this, what are we to do about it? Are we to engage in political and/or humanitarian campaigns to try to make this a better world now? Are we to try desperately to convert the world, bringing them to Christ? Are we to walk from door to door to proselytize the masses? Are we to stand in the market places, with signs telling the people to wake up and to repent?

The Church of God has been given the commission from God to preach the gospel of the Kingdom of God in all the world as a witness, and then the end of this present evil civilization will come. But we are not doing it in the way as described above. Rather, we proclaim the gospel via our literature and video- and audio messages, which people can receive if they want them, without having to have the feeling that something is going to be forced upon them against their will. And so, the message is going out.  It is good news originating from God. We know that God is a Family, presently consisting of the Father and Jesus Christ, the Son, and of all truly converted Christians who are today God’s begotten children, and who will be born into the God Family at the time of Christ’s return.

When we announce the message of God, some (who are being called by God) will heed and repent and become baptized, thereby becoming Spirit-begotten members of the very Family of God, looking forward to the time of their change to immortality, when they too will be fully God, equal to the Father and the Son in nature and substance. Part of the Church’s message today, which it has received from God, is to warn the nations as to what is going to happen to them—with the hope that some will repent and be spared from the terrible times to come.

Our organizations working from the USA, Canada, and the UK are small, and God told us that we will only have a little strength. But He also said that He will open doors for us which no one can shut, even though there will be attempts to do so. Some of these doors are being opened right now, and it requires God’s inspiration and guidance, as well as His strength, to go through them. In response to our activities in German-speaking countries, we are receiving numerous requests for baptism, as well as for counseling, and even for possibilities as to how to keep the Feast with us next year in Wales. Norbert and Johanna Link will be visiting Germany before and during the Passover season to try to meet with as many interested people as possible. We are also noticing an increased interest in our activities in the USA and Canada, as well as in the Philippines, Africa and other parts of the world. This year, small congregations kept the Feast in those areas by using some or all of our video-or audio-recorded messages.

Brethren and friends, we are to think big. We know that after the Great Tribulation has begun, but prior to the Day of the Lord and Christ’s return, thousands upon thousands of people from all nations will turn to God and receive His protection. How will this come about? Surely, the two witnesses, who will begin a mighty Work during the Great Tribulation, will have a tremendous part in this, but God also says that His Church, prior to the Great Tribulation, is to proclaim the gospel, including the prophesied future of entire nations. We read that the modern nations of the houses of Israel and Judah, for example, will have been warned before they will go into captivity, and then they will remember what they had heard and rejected. Other nations will have heard the warning message too, before disaster will strike them.

Do we realize our critical part in this? Do we realize that God will hold us accountable if we neglect to participate in this all-important commission today, while concentrating mainly on fleeting pleasures and activities? It should go without saying that we must be diligent in praying to God and studying the Bible and meditating on what we have read, and also in occasional fasting. But this is not all—by far! How diligent are we in STUDYING all of our literature (including ALL of our booklets, the weekly Updates, and for instance this member letter)? How diligent and attentive are we in watching or listening and concentrating on our video and audio messages (including our sermonettes, sermons and StandingWatch programs), so that we can be taught God’s Word, enabling us to teach others when the opportunity arises?

When we missed a service for whatever legitimate reason (we should never miss a service for an unbiblical reason, of course, as we are commanded to attend Church services in person, as we have opportunity), how diligent are we in listening to the sermon, once it has become available on the Web or CD? Or, if we were distracted by our small children and babies during services, do we make every effort to listen to the sermon again once it has been posted or made available on CD?

How diligent are we in supporting this Work prayerfully and financially with tithes and offerings, looking for opportunities to assist? God is opening doors for us right now, but to go through these doors, we need financial help. God knows this, and we have no doubt whatsoever that God will provide us with what we need to be able to do His Will. If you neglect to help, then someone else will. But this would do you no good at all.

Please, brethren and friends, make sure that you do your part, individually, and also in collaboration with the Work of the Church of God. If God has placed you in His Church, He did so for a reason. The reason is not, to sit back and watch and observe others doing the Work. And the reason is not either, so that YOU can “get” salvation.

We have produced a new booklet, “Paul’s Letter to the Philippians.” This booklet was distributed to all who attended the Feast of Tabernacles with us in California. We are enclosing with this letter a copy of this booklet for those who did not attend the Feast site in California. We hope and trust that you will take to heart what God is telling you through His Word, the Bible; through individual circumstances in your life; and through the teachings of the Body of Christ—His Church; and we pray that you will not take lightly God’s warning and His plan for your glorious future.

With the love of Jesus Christ,

Norbert Link

Dave Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

Eric Rank

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Dear Members, Co-Workers and Friends,

Tumultuous events of unparalleled importance are on the horizon. And while many attempt to escape reality by trying to experience warm and cozy feelings during Christmas celebrations, mankind is getting closer to the brink of utter destruction.

In a series of sermons, we have begun addressing the seven seals in the book of Revelation, and we have commenced with publishing several installments on the same topic in our weekly Updates. We are also addressing the topic in our new radio programs, which will begin broadcasting in January.

We should all know that the first four seals picture the four horsemen of the Apocalypse, representing false religion, war, famine and disease pandemics. We read in Revelation 6:8 that these four horsemen will kill one-fourth of mankind.

Let’s pause and reflect on this. Can we really grasp the utter destruction which we are about to face?

According to current estimates, there are about 7 billion people alive today. Scripture tells us that one-fourth will die—that is, 1.75 billion—when the four horsemen begin their terrible ride. These people will die because of religious persecution, war, famine and disease pandemics.

Many times, wars are fought because of religious propaganda and misguided zeal—the crusades are prime examples, but by far not the only ones. Estimates suggest that nearly one billion people may have died in religious wars—far more than in strictly political or “godless” wars. Three of the most costly wars in terms of human life have been waged in the 20th century. 60 to 70 million people died in World War II, 20 million died in World War I, and 5 to 9 million died in the Russian Civil War (1917-1922).

And then, we are told that in the 20th century alone, 70 million people died from famine. An estimated 100 million died within six months during the great influenza or Spanish flu (1918-1919), and in the 12th and 13th centuries, the “Black Death” killed as many as 34 million people in Europe (nearly one-third of Europe’s population at that time), and many more died in India and China.

We see that terrible death tolls have occurred in the past, caused by religious and political wars, famines and diseases, and the Bible tells us that the four horsemen of the Apocalypse will repeat, if not top, those figures during the time of their comparatively short ride.

In addition, Christ warns us that during and subsequent to that time, there will be increased earthquake activity. In the future, an earthquake will strike which will be larger than any earthquake which has occurred since the creation of man (Revelation 16:18). So far, the biggest recorded earthquake had a magnitude of 9.5 on the Richter scale. It occurred in Chile in 1960 (The largest recorded earthquake in the USA struck Alaska in 1964 with a magnitude of 9.2; and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, with an estimated magnitude of 9.0, is perceived to be the largest European earthquake).

Christ tells us that following the four horsemen of the Apocalypse, the fifth seal will be opened. It describes the beginning of the Great Tribulation, which will be the most devastating time in the history of man (Daniel 12:1; Mark 13:19). It will be such a terrible time that no human being would survive if Christ was not to return and shorten those days (Matthew 24:22). Undoubtedly, many millions of people will die during that horrible time.

After the beginning of the Great Tribulation, there will be terrible signs in the heavens, followed by the great and awesome Day of the Lord (Joel 2:30-31; Revelation 6:12-17), when God’s wrath will be poured out on unrepentant and rebellious man. During that time, further insane wars will be fought. One of those wars alone will kill “a third of mankind” of those who will still be alive at that time (Revelation 9:15).

We could go on with describing other prophesied nightmare scenarios, but this should suffice to show us the unparalleled calamities that will befall mankind. Contrary to the mindless Christmas mentality of “peace on earth for all men” now, the Bible paints quite a different picture. Man, in his idle and selfish, God-defying and Satan-heeding attempts to rule himself, will bring all of us to the brink of utter destruction (Revelation 11:18).

That is the bad news. But there is good news. Christ said that He will shorten the days, for the elect’s sake, so that some will survive. There will be those who are worthy to be spared from and to escape this terrible time of trial or tribulation which will come upon the entire earth (Luke 21:36; Revelation 3:10).

Christ prophesied that before the end of this civilization comes, His gospel of the Kingdom of God will be preached in all the world as a witness (Matthew 24:14). He said that His Church will carry on with the Elijah commission to preach the only true gospel of the Kingdom of God, including repentance (Malachi 4:5-6), and that some will respond, believe and repent (Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:47), so that God will not have to come to strike the earth with a curse or utter destruction (compare again Malachi 4:6).

In light of the incredible devastation which will engulf this planet, what a great responsibility God has placed on our shoulders to help ensure that there will be survivors. We had better not take this responsibility lightly.

With Christian love,

Norbert Link