compiled by Dave Harris

“Are Jews and Christians at Odds with Jesus Christ?” our new booklet, has now entered the final review process before printing. This booklet will be posted soon, and following printing, hard copies will be sent to our mailing list and to those requesting a free copy.

Was Christ’s Mother His First Disciple?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary: 

Recently, Pope Francis claimed that the Virgin Mary, Christ’s mother, was Christ’s first disciple. Why is this comment false, and why is it important that you understand who Mary was?

“War die Mutter Jesu Christi sein erster Jünger?” is the title of a new AufPostenStehen program, presented by Norbert Link. This program covers the same topic as described above. 

“Was geschah geschichtlich während der Tage der Ungesäuerten Brote?”  is the title of a new German sermon for the Last Day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “What Happened Historically During the Days of Unleavened Bread?”

“The Meaning of the Suez Canal Fiasco—Comments on News and Prophecy, March 27, 2021,” the first message presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

This message covers planned animal sacrifices and the new elections in Israel; the need for encouragement; the concern regarding President Biden’s health; the new treaty between China and Iran; nonsense at Oregon’s schools; the Suez Canal fiasco which shows our fragile worldwide economy; and mutations of the coronavirus for which there are no vaccines.

“The Body and the Blood of Jesus Christ,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

During the Passover night, when He was betrayed, Jesus Christ introduced the new symbols of bread and wine. He said much about it, and much happened during the next day of Passover, which is very confusing to most people. Are we allowed to partake of the “communion” or the “Lord’s supper” at any time? Do the bread and the wine change on that occasion to the body and blood of Christ? Did Jesus say during the Passover night that He would eat no bread and drink no wine until His return to this earth? Exactly how did Jesus die on the cross? And in what way was His body broken, and what does this mean for us today?

“Der Glaube kommt aus der Predigt” the sermonette presented last Sabbath in Germany by Mike Richter, is now posted. Title in English: “Faith Comes from the Sermon.”

“Hingabe,” the sermonette presented on the First Day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread in Germany by Christian Mrosek, is now posted. Title in English: “Dedication.”

“Der Betrug der Suende,” the sermon presented on the First Day of Unleavened Bread in Germany by Norbert Link, is now posted. Title in English: “The Deceitfulness of Sin.”

“Just a Second,” the morning sermonette for the First Day of Unleavened Bread which was presented by Frank Bruno, is now posted. Here is a summary:

In the sermons and sermonettes leading up to the Spring Holy Days we have heard and considered that even a person drawn by God to follow Jesus Christ can be beset by sin. Most of us would like to believe that we are basically good people in the eyes of God and among our brethren. However, in this sermonette on the Feast of Unleavened Bread we will consider just how easy it is for a human to sin, and how important repentance is to save us from our nature and mistakes, and even restore our confidence. We need not fall prey to Satan if we remain mindful of the blessing of the Holy Spirit sent to help us move forward. Repentance is the tool that we can wield to return to the embrace of the Father and His Son.

“Who We Are” the morning sermon for the First Day of Unleavened Bread which was presented by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:

One characteristic that all Christians share is their humanity. By nature, humans are complex creatures, prone to error, but above all, capable of compassion. The work of a Christian is to strengthen the ability to love and care for one another, recognizing that we are all imperfectly working together towards the same goal.

“Remain Clean,” the afternoon Offertory for the First Day of Unleavened Bread which was presented by Michael Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

The Days of Unleavened Bread symbolize keeping sin out of our lives from both a physical and a spiritual standpoint by not partaking in anything leavened during these 7 days. But what about after the 7 days are over?  How are we to remain clean spiritually at all times, and what help do we have?

“The Deceitfulness of Sin,” the afternoon sermon for the First Day of Unleavened Bread which was presented by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

How and in what way does sin deceive us? Why is the way of sin a way of error and of fraud? How can people and Satan deceive us and lead us into error? Why is sin compared with leaven, and why are we to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, the Herodians, and the Sadducees? Can we, on our own, overcome sin?

compiled by Dave Harris

The March 2021 Member Letter is now posted.

“Der Leib und das Blut Jesu Christi,” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “The Body and the Blood of Jesus Christ.”

“Der Betrug der Sünde,” is the title of the afternoon sermon on the First Day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “The Deceitfulness of Sin.”

“Mit welchem Recht?” last Sabbath’s German sermonette which was presented by Johann Schell, is now posted. Title in English: “With What Right?”

“Get to Work,” last Sabbath’s sermonette presented by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:

The life of a Christian involves a lifetime of spiritual growth and development, requiring hard work in overcoming sin and bringing the fruit of the Spirit to maturity.

“God-Who-Forgives,” last Sabbath’s sermon presented by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Throughout the history of mankind, evil has become so all-pervasive that God has been moved to destroy individuals, nations and even the entire world. Yet, because righteousness was found in some, God relented. That, however, did not remove all the consequences of sin.

compiled by Dave Harris

“Coming… A Worldwide Dictatorship,” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

The whole world is being prepared today for accepting a global autocratic dictatorship. Its beginning is already manifesting itself on the world scene. Do you know what is happening, and why, and that the Bible has prophesied this end-time development thousands of years ago?

“Eine weltweite Diktatur kommt!,” is the title of a new AufPostenStehen program. Presented by Norbert Link, this video covers the same topic as described in the English version. 

“Unsere Hindernisse überwinden,” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon which is presented by Michael Link. Title in English: “Overcome Our Obstacles.” 

“Are Jews and Christians at Odds with Jesus Christ?” is the title of our newest booklet. This has been sent to graphic artist, Shelly Bruno, in preparation for printing. While this will be posted to our website, hard copies will be available upon request.

A new member letter has been written by Eric Rank who discusses what is really important for true Christians in light of the upcoming Passover and Spring Holy Days. The letter will be distributed next week to our members and subscribers. 

“Die Ewigkeitsklausel,” is the title of a split sermon presented last Sabbath in Germany by Thilo Hanstein. Title in English: “The Eternity Clause.”

“Stehen wir alleine vor Problemen?” is the title of a split sermon presented last Sabbath in Germany by Christoph Sperzel. Title in English: “Are We Facing Problems Alone?”

“Fatigue,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Kalon Mitchell, is now posted. Here is a summary:

What happens when you are in a role where there are a lot of alerts always coming at you? The natural tendency is to start to ignore important issues. What happens when this occurs to us as Christians? How do we combat this?

“The Leaders and Followers,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Michael Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

What makes a good leader and what are the responsibilities they must uphold to be considered as such?  What are the roles of a follower and how do the followers and the leaders complement one another?

compiled by Dave Harris

 A Tech Team meeting was conducted via SKYPE on Sunday, March 7, 2021. Hosted by Eric Rank, discussions centered on fine tuning the Church website graphic designs and with planning for different Internet services to host our live broadcasts.

We are saddened to announce the death of Martha Bittle, a member who lived in Arkansas. Her daughter, Lois Nelson, wrote saying her Mother died peacefully knowing that she was in God’s hands, and that Mrs. Bittle faithfully looked forward to her resurrection in God’s Family.

“Any Prophetic Fallout from Harry and Meghan’s Interview?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary: 

The bombshell interview with Oprah has prompted many different emotional reactions all over the world. This program does not address at all who is right or wrong. But it focuses on interesting developments which might be a preview of things to come. The Bible has much to say about the future of Britain’s monarchy and the Commonwealth. 

“Israel’s and Germany’s Future—Comments on News and Prophecy, March 6, 2021,” the first message presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Benjamin Netanyahu told supporters that due to the “changed international reality,” he is the only one who will stand “against the entire world” in regard to the Iran question. In response, the USA warned Israel and others in the Middle East not to oppose US policies. Also, Germans are very unhappy with Angela Merkel and Health Minister Jens Spahn, and Der Spiegel Online asked for Spahn’s resignation. What could all of this mean in the light of biblical prophecy?

“Why the Footwashing Ceremony at Passover?” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Baptized Members of the Church of God partake each year at Passover evening of the symbols of bread and wine, but they also participate in the footwashing ceremony. Why did Christ introduce the footwashing ceremony, and what does it mean for us today? How do we understand Christ’s statements in response to Peter’s initial refusal to accept Christ’s washing of his feet? And is there a relationship between the correct baptism, which only occurs once in a lifetime of a converted person, and the footwashing ceremony which is being observed annually?

compiled by Norbert Link

“Pope Warns of a Worldwide Flood” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

In referring to the “story of the great flood in the Bible,” Pope Francis said that “humanity is facing another ‘great deluge, perhaps due to a rise in temperature and the melting of glaciers.’” He continued that the “biblical flood which destroyed the world except for Noah… may have been a myth.”

What does the Bible say about Noah’s flood and the possibility of another deluge in our time?

Our new booklet, “Are Jews and Christians at Odds with Jesus Christ?” is nearing completion of our review team.

“Die Bedeutung der Fusswaschung am Passaabend” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “The Meaning of the Footwashing Ceremony at Passover.”

“Anpassung an Veränderungen” is this Sabbath’s new German sermonette, presented by Michael Link. Title in English: “Adapting to Change.”

“Wuensche und Erwartungen” is the German sermonette from last Sabbath, presented by Daniel Blasinger. Title in English: “Wishes and Expectations…”

“Adapting to Change” is the title of last Sabbath’s sermonette, presented by Michael Link. Here is a summary:

Times have changed and the way we live now is much different than it used to be one year ago. How are we to adapt to changes that man is trying to put into place without having to contradict God’s way of life?

“What God’s Church Needs to Do!–Comments on News and Prophecy” is the title of Norbert Link’s special message from last Sabbath. Here is a summary:

We are told to cry aloud and spare not. This includes, pointing at and proclaiming prophetic developments in the light of biblical prophecy. And we must do so boldly and with conviction. Some don’t do this at all; others want us to give a watered-down Laodicean-type message, where anything goes. But this is not what we must do.

Parallels With Ancient Israelites  is the title of last Sabbath’s sermon, presented by Kalon Mitchell. Here is a summary:

We live in the 21st century! We are modern and sophisticated! And yet we find ourselves living in a time of great fear and cascading catastrophic tribulation that is growing worse. When we look at the Bible, can we see parallels, especially when we review Israel and what God did with them? How does what they went through parallel our time now?

compiled by Dave Harris

“Will the Relationship between the USA and Europe Improve?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary: 

Some are hopeful that the relationship between the USA and the EU, which has not been that good, will get better substantially because of the new US Administration. Others are not so sure, or they even doubt it very much. Listen to many articles from national and international liberal and conservative sources to note what their take is on the matter.

“Christi Erklärung der vier Reiter der Offenbarung,” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “Christ’s Explanation of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.”

“Erziehung im Sinne Gottes,” is the title of last Sabbath’s split sermon, presented by Thilo Hanstein. Title in English: “Training According to God’s Will.”

“Eine gute Verbindung haben,” is the title of last Sabbath’s split sermon, presented by Christoph Sperzel. Title in English: “Have a Good Connection.”

“Dead Center,” is the title of last Sabbath’s sermonette, presented by Frank Bruno. Here is a summary:

The world today likes to deceive itself that it prefers life in the center—a world of compromise. Politicians who do not espouse this sentiment, this focus on false healing and unity are condemned. The world is of course hostile to any truth associated with being obedient to God’s laws. Worldly negotiation demands driving to the center—accepting pain for all! Humans cannot succeed in this world if they are true to God’s commandments, yet, conversely, they cannot find the narrow pathway to the Kingdom of God if they seek to please two masters. In this Sermonette we will cover several scriptures that make this perfectly clear. Participating in the politics of this world by definition means choosing between the lesser of two evils—not the ways of the Lord. This is not acceptable for followers of Jesus Christ.

“The Open Door,” is the title of last Sabbath’s sermon, presented by Eric Rank. Here is a summary:

The Bible describes an amazing opportunity for mankind, and an even greater opportunity to those who are fortunate to be called out of the world in this age. What do we need to do to take advantage of the great opportunities we have sitting right in front of us?

compiled by Dave Harris

“Can Israel Count on America’s Support?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

The relationship between America under the Biden Administration and Israel under Benjamin Netanyahu is bound to deteriorate, and their recent phone conversation, with nice sounding but unrealistic platitudes, will not change this a bit. This program shows the many reasons why Israel cannot count on meaningful support from the USA, at least not for the time being. 

“Kann sich Israel auf Amerikas Hilfe verlassen?” is the title of a new AufPostenStehen program, presented by Norbert Link. This program covers the same topic as the English version described above.

“Das Leben gehört Gott!” is the title of last Sabbath’s German sermonette, presented by Jens Herrmann. Title in English: “Life Belongs to God.”

“His Marvelous Light,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

We have been called out of darkness to be the light of the world. We who are Christians are to be living in the marvelous light of God—how are we doing?

“Why We Don’t Stop,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Robb Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Christianity is not a destination but a process of improvement.  We were called by God in a broken state, and through His Holy Spirit, we can achieve a life of success.  But is this eye-opening understanding something that we relish or just endure?  True success, which is entrance into the Family of God, requires a persevering and joyous heart.

compiled by Dave Harris

A new Member Letter (February 2021) has been written and mailed to our subscribers. In this important letter, Norbert Link discusses recent political events in the United States in light of the role of the Church of God in watching prophetic fulfillment, while strongly preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of God. This letter is now posted.

“Why Did Trump Lose the Election?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary: 

The Democrats in the Senate are trying to prevent former President Donald Trump from ever running for office again, but will they be successful? Will the “Senate Banana Republic Show Trial,” as it has been described by some, lead to Trump’s conviction? Is this trial even constitutional, and if not, why not? What should Trump’s defense lawyers address in rebuttal of the claims made by the Democratic managers? And what is it that needs to be pointed out to get the entire picture pertaining to the 2016 election and possible future developments?

Our monthly Tech Team meeting was conducted via SKYPE on February 7, 2021. Hosted by Eric Rank, particular attention was directed to the current movement by Internet providers to block programming. In that regard, alternative sourcing was discussed. Additional time was spent reviewing our broadcasting procedures to ensure smooth transmission experiences for our participants during live services.

“Wieso hat Trump die Wahl verloren?” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “Why did Trump Lose the Election?”

“Die Heiligen richten die Nationen,” is the title of last Sabbath’s German sermonette, presented by Marc Voeller. Title in English: “The Saints Judge the Nations.”

“A Small Amount Matters,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Robb Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Many have based their eternal rewards on misconceptions and on achieving salvation with only minimal effort. But the Bible is clear, and Christ as well, that this is a dangerous misconception that can lead many to destruction. Each of us must overcome our carnality with an habitual change of heart.

“Before the Temple is Built,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

What will be happening before the Temple described in Ezekiel is built? Are the current preparations by Jews in the State of Israel to build a Temple of God on the Temple Mount of any significance—and are they actually in line with biblical prophecy? Prior endeavors by Israel in constructing the Tabernacle and subsequent Temples provide keys for what we can expect today.

compiled by Dave Harris

“The Return of Donald Trump” is the title of the new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. 

Here is a summary:

Apart from occasional short comments, Donald Trump was at first pretty quiet after Joe Biden’s inauguration and Trump’s departure from Washington to his estate in Florida. But beginning with the end of January, a remarkable change could be observed. Trump began to be back in the spotlight, and it seems, he has become more popular and influential than ever. It would be naïve and a grave mistake to think that we have heard the last word and seen the last action from Trump.

“Richtige und falsche Gerechtigkeit” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon, presented by Michael Link. Title in English: “True and False Righteousness.”

“Die Liebe zur Wahrheit—ein Weckruf an wahre Christen,” is the title of last Sabbath’s German sermonette, presented by Mike Richter. Title in English: “The Love of Truth — A Wake-Up Call to True Christians.”

“How Are You?” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Kalon Mitchell, is now posted. Here is a summary:

How often do we ask this question, and how often are we asked it? In terms of a Christian, how often do we really ask our fellow brethren and truly seek to understand exactly how somebody is doing or feeling? We are to be loving each other. How do we do this?

“What? The Mark of the Beast Does Not Already Exist?” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

An idea has been advanced that the biblical mark of the beast does not exist at this time, and it is not explained as what the mark of the beast is. The truth is that the mark of the beast has been in existence for a long time, as we have taught for many years, and the Bible tells us very clearly what the mark of the beast is, and how it is different from the sign with which God identifies His people.

compiled by Dave Harris

“The Second Impeachment Circus,” is the title of the new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

This is another example of how to divide the country. Observers tell us that it is highly unlikely that in addition to all the Senate Democrats, 17 needed Senate Republicans will convict Trump, and some even went so far as to say that the “trial” is dead on arrival and that it is all over, after 45 Republican Senators voted that such a trial would be unconstitutional. Others are not so sure, pointing out that some Senate Republicans voted against a trial because of its lack of constitutionality, but that this did not indicate “how they might come down on Trump’s guilt or innocence after a trial.” The presenter of this program is convinced that Trump will not be convicted or prevented by the Senate from holding a public office in the future or running again for the Presidency in 2024. But how can you have any confidence in those statements, or any further statements pertaining to prophetic events, given the fact that the presenter was wrongly predicting that Trump would be reelected in 2020?

“Wie bitte—das Malzeichen des Tieres existiert noch nicht?” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon, presented by Norbert Link. Title in English: “What? The Mark of the Beast Does Not Already Exist?”

“Nach welchen Maßstäben urteilen wir?” is the title of last Sabbath’s German sermonette, presented by Manuel Giermann. Title in English: “By What Standards Do We Judge?”

“Germany’s Past Resurrected?—Comments on News and Prophecy (January 23, 2021),” is the title of the first message from last Sabbath, presented by Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

Developments in Germany are frightening and deeply disturbing, including the creation of detention centers for those who ignore lockdown measurers. The comparison with Nazi Germany’s concentration camps has been drawn. And while total lockdowns have been instituted in Germany, which many find to be unconstitutional, Merkel’s successor as Party Chief has been elected—Armin Laschet. Here is what you ought to know about him and others who are supporting him for now.

“You Will Be Tested,” is the title of last Sabbath’s sermon, presented by Rene Messier. Here is a summary:

Many of God’s servants and biblical characters in the Bible were tested by trials and tests from God. Some were successful through the trials and some failed. The key is the ones who were successful were faithful and so should we be when we face trials and tests which we know are coming in the near future.