Many believe in wild rumors and weird conspiracy theories. And even some in God’s Church can become easy targets, if they are not careful. We are called upon to come out of the Babylonian confusion of political propaganda and war hysteria, while rejecting unprovable concepts and speculations. Would we be guilty of lying if we were to propagate something which turns out to be false? Do we understand that many popular conspiracy theories were invented by Satan and his demons?
politics
Beware of Distractions
There are many different types of distractions that could keep us from the Kingdom of God, if we are not careful. We need to be aware of what is truly important and what we need to keep our focus on if we want to be counted worthy.
The Christian in a Political World
In light of real or feared terror attacks in Europe, the USA and the Middle East, how is a Christian to deal with this world’s politics? Should Christians participate in governmental elections? Should they financially support “their” political candidate for the highest office? Should they engage in war propaganda or participate in any way in the wars of their country? Are they to pray for the governing authorities, and if so, how and why? Should they even pray for the soon-coming return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the Kingdom of God here on earth, since they know that terrible events will have to occur first, which will cause much suffering and pain?
War and Our Christian Duties
America’s new war in Iraq and Syria does not seem to have any chance of success. Statements in numerous papers allege that “Obama leaves behind a world of chaos”; that America “will be at war for generations to come”; that the “military campaign against ISIS will fail, possibly with disastrous consequences”; and that “the West is irrevocably set on another bloody adventure in the Middle East.” How should a true Christian view this situation? Is there ever justification for us to fight in war? We are quoting extensively from Herbert W. Armstrong’s writings on military service and war and from our free booklet, “Should You Fight in War?” We point out that historically, true Christians have steadfastly refused to fight in war—but that many nominal Christians compromised in the face of political propaganda and persecution.
No More Guns?
The mass murder in Colorado has shown again the incredible acts of senseless and demonic violence of which man is capable. Questions are asked as to whether gun control would have prevented a “mentally disturbed” man to carry out his horrendous crimes; and whether the increase in violence, especially in movies and video games, could be blamed for those actions. Our fascination with guns will not create a better world. What is needed is a change of mind and heart. “It must be of the spirit if we are to save the flesh” (General Douglas MacArthur in 1951).
Download Audio Download VideoThe Colorado Massacre
The mass murder in one of Colorado’s theaters during a midnight showing of the new Batman movie has shocked and bewildered many, and answers for the unthinkable are being sought. Some valid considerations contribute, more or less, to the understanding of the nature of evil deeds, but they do not fully comprehend the problem at hand, nor do they solve it.
Religion and Politics-an Unholy Alliance?
USA Today published an article on November 7, 2011, arguing that the present version of our Christian politics is corrupting our Christian faith and encourages politicians to use God’s name in vain. The article concludes that it drives many away from God. And it is true that churches today have no jurisdiction to enforce any laws of God. Given the confusion as to what is still binding spiritual or moral law, and what constituted temporary ritual laws and provisions for the ancient nation of Israel under Moses, we can be thankful that in the USA, church and state are separate. European history provides ample testimony as to what happens when a church rules a state.
Download Audio Download Video