MARCH 2017 | THETRUMPET.COM

Who will defend Eastern Europe? Trump tells Germany: ‘Take control!’ Jerusalem: City of pieces When food attacks God’s view on making and managing money

Should America trust this man? COVER Vladimir Putin’s background should cause America to rethink its trust in him. MARCH 2017 | VOL. 28, NO. 3 | CIRC. 271,949 (gary dorning/trumpet)

FEATURES

1 FROM THE EDITOR Should Donald Trump Trust Vladimir Putin?

4 Who Will Defend Eastern Europe? 5 Russia’s Middle East Invasion

7 Trump Tells Germany: ‘Take Control!’ Germany will aggressively pursue its own interests for the first time since WWII. 8 In Challenge, Opportunity

10 City of Pieces As united Jerusalem turns 50, we ask: Will it make it to 51? 12 A Shameful Record Against Israel

14 Who Was Antiochus Epiphanes?

15 Why You Must Watch Jerusalem I think I would 18 INFOGRAPHIC ‘Half of the City Shall Go Forth just get along Into Captivity’ “ very well with 20 The Cryptic Nationalist Group Vladimir Putin.” Steering Japan —donald trump

23 Allergies: When Food Attacks

DEPARTMENTS

24 BIBLE IQ God’s View on Making and Managing Money

28 WORLDWATCH

31 SOCIETYWATCH

33 PRINCIPLES OF LIVING What Do You Stand For?

34 DISCUSSION BOARD

35 COMMENTARY President Obama’s Hidden Legacy NAIVE LEANINGS President Trump has indicated his willingness to work with 36 THE KEY OF DAVID TELEVISION LOG his Russian counterpart. (getty images)

Trumpet editor in chief Gerald Trumpet executive editor News and analysis A weekly digest Flurry’s weekly television program Stephen Flurry’s television program updated daily of important news theTrumpet.com/keyofdavid theTrumpet.com/trumpet_daily theTrumpet.com theTrumpet.com/trumpetweekly FROM THE EDITOR Should Donald Trump Trust Vladimir Putin?

The Russian president is more than he appears to be.

any people are concerned about American Presi- people. Imagine the president of your country killing 160,000 dent Donald Trump’s relationship with Russian of your fellow citizens. Russians do not have to imagine that! M President Vladimir Putin. But they are not concerned Putin has crushed Russia’s independent media and taken about this relationship for the right reasons. They do not control of it. That is the classic hallmark of a dangerous, oppres- understand the real danger. sive, tyrannical despot. But notice this: Putin has allegedly On July 31, 2015, candidate Trump said publicly, “I think ordered the murder of 134 journalists! Imagine your president I would just get along very well with Vladimir Putin.” He not just arguing against or insulting or silencing journalists repeated this sentiment numerous who disagree with him, but going so far as to murder them! times throughout his campaign. Vladimir Putin is a former kgb operative. He says that even Mr. Trump indicated that, under in high school he dreamed of becoming a spy. Putin told his certain circumstances, he might not biographers that the allure of the kgb wasn’t its professed protect America’s allies in the North high-minded ideals, but the actual dirty work of espionage. Atlantic Treaty Organization. nato was You can read about all this in the Jan. 23, 2016, Washington created to keep Russia in check, and Post (“The Death of a Former KGB Operative Is a Reminder of Putin would love for it to go away. Vladimir Putin’s Past Life as a Spy”). gerald flurry Russia is a rival power to the United “I was most amazed by how a small force, a single person, States. It fought America in the Cold really, can accomplish something an entire army cannot,” War, and its socialist ideology has infiltrated American uni- Putin said to his biographers. “A single intelligence officer versities, news corporations, government and culture since could rule over the fates of thousands of people. At least the 1960s. It is also a major antagonist toward Eastern Europe that’s how I saw it” (Telegraph, Feb. 25, 2012). Putin achieved and Europe as a whole, which America has treated as its allies. And it is not afraid to assault nations like Georgia, Ukraine or Syria. Its nuclear arsenal and delivery systems rival those “I was most amazed by how a of the United States. These are all reasons to worry about small force, a single person, really, Trump’s comments about Putin. But I want to focus on another reason why Trump’s com- can accomplish something ments are dangerous. And this reason revolves around who an entire army cannot.” —Vladimir Putin Vladimir Putin is as a man. What will happen if the American president does “get along his dream and became a Russian agent during the Cold War very well with” a man of Putin’s character? What happens to in one of the most brutal intelligence agencies that has ever America if our country gets along with this man? existed—a genuine deception and murder machine. What did Vladimir Putin actually accomplish as a spy? How What Kind of Man Is Putin? did his career in espionage shape who he is now? And how was Putin’s Russia, along with China, has vetoed multiple United he affected when he saw firsthand the Soviet Union disinte- Nations sanctions that would have restricted some of the most grate around him? When he ascended to power and ultimately terrible regimes on Earth. And yet Western leaders continue took the presidency, did he leave that deceitful, dangerous and to “push the reset button” every time a new administration deadly way of life behind? These are vital questions that need comes into office, thinking they can work with him. to be asked and answered before anyone should trust this man. President Putin has continued Russia’s support of Iran, giving this suicidal religious extremist terrorist nation hefty ‘Supersize Model of the KGB’ support, including the development of nuclear weapons. This Alexander Litvinenko was a former kgb operative. He criticized is a regime that has disgusting, devastating policies and the actions of his superiors and accused them of assassination. openly calls America the “Great Satan” and the Jewish nation He fled to Britain, where he was granted asylum and appar- the “Little Satan,” and for the latter to be wiped off the map. ently worked with the British mi6 spy agency. Then, in 2006, he Putin supports Russia’s vile policy of sponsoring this nation. was murdered. Inquiries into his death found he was poisoned In Chechnya, an Islamic separatist region of Russia, Putin has with polonium, a rare and lethal radioactive isotope, and that lashed out in warfare that killed more than 160,000 of his own the murder was likely approved personally by Vladimir Putin. MARCH 2017 1 Putin is also widely considered responsible for the 2004 God’s messenger has to know who these two great nations are poisoning of Ukraine’s opposition leader, Viktor Yushchenko. and who this prince is. This man is not just an authoritarian leader! He is an evil, This is an electrifying prophecy in your Bible that discusses ruthless, vindictive agent with Soviet-style methods of psy- super-powerful nations that are active in the latter years. If chological warfare, assassination and war! As one Russian you know this is a prophecy for our time period, then it is not journalist put it, Putin “is a supersize model of the kgb.” that difficult to discern who these nations are, who this world This is a man with beastly power and with a beastly desire to leader is, and who this messenger is. rule the world! He is a vengeful, monstrous friend of the devil with all sorts of anti-God policies. He is steeped in secrecy, deception, manipulation, aggression, intimidation, coercion Scholars generally agree that “Gog” is Russia, and that and force, and there is far more about him that we do not know. “the land of Magog” includes China. The descendants of What will happen to a country that will “get along very well Meshech and Tubal have been found together throughout with Vladimir Putin”? history. In Assyrian and Greek histories, Meshech appears That’s not just a rhetorical question. The closer our pres- as Musku, Moschi or Mushki—all names related to the ident and our nation gets to Putin, the further it gets Russian spelling of Moscow (International Standard Bible from what is good and what is right—the further it gets Encyclopedia). What about Tubal? On the eastern side of from God! That is deadly dangerous! the Ural Mountains lies the city of Tobolsk, named after the Putin will stay true to his character and prey on President Tobol River, derived from Tubal. Tobolsk was once the seat Trump and America as he has preyed on others. And we will of the Russian government over Siberia, and was basically deserve it for having cozied up with him. considered Russia’s Asian capital. Also there is a name for all the Russian people in Ezekiel Two Individuals Prophesied 38:2. There is controversy over how the Hebrew word rosh Putin’s Russia is in the news almost daily right now because should be translated in this verse. The King James Version of how active it is in the world. But do you know that what this uses the adjective “chief.” But the correct rendering (used nation is currently doing was forecast many centuries ago? by the Moffatt, New King James and others) uses the word If you can believe it, a perfect description of 21st-century not as an adjective, but as a proper noun, Rosh. Thus, this Russia and its leader is recorded in the sixth-century b.c. book verse should read, “the prince of Rosh, Meschech and Tubal.” of Ezekiel. This is a stunning and wide-ranging prophecy, one Rosh was the ancient name of Russia, once called Rus. Many of the longest in the entire Bible. encyclopedias and commentaries (such as the Jamieson, Ezekiel 38:8 says, “After many days thou shalt be visited: Fausset and Brown Commentary) recognize this. So who in the latter years ….” Notice that Ezekiel was writing not for is this “prince” of Russia, Moscow and Tobolsk? The use of people who lived at that time, but to people who would read three names states that this is an individual ruler of all the his book “in the latter years.” That is our time today. peoples of Russia from the west to the east. “And the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, —Gerald Flurry, The Prophesied ‘Prince of Russia’ set thy face against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him” (Ezekiel 38:1- 2). God wants a man in the latter years to prophesy against This is the leader of Gog, the leader of Meshech, the leader “the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal.” This prince is a of Tubal, the leader of Rosh! This is the prince of Russia. powerful leader who is visible in world news. This individual controls an enormous, monstrous swath of The Bible prophesies of a “prince” in our lifetime and says land in Asia, from east to west. The territory described in your he will be revealed during a period called the end time. It also Bible sounds very much like that of the former Soviet Union, prophesies that there will be a messenger who will prophesy the territory Russia dominates or wants to dominate right now. against this leader. You can’t deliver this message and you can’t understand this prophecy unless you know who this prince is. Russia’s ‘Prince’ Ezekiel gets specific here. There are two individuals, a “son of Russia has already conquered or threatened states that were man” and this “prince.” If you can identify the message of Eze- formerly part of the Soviet Union. In 2007, Putin ordered a kiel to this prince, then you can also identify God’s messenger devastating cyberattack against Estonia. In 2008, he sent in the 21st century. God reveals the Red Army into Georgia this message to His messenger. and conquered it. In 2014, he No human being can just figure “And the word of the Lord came unto me, sent masked gunmen with no out these prophecies and dis- saying, Son of man, set thy face against Gog, the insignia to seize the peninsula cern anything from them. Only land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and of Crimea and ordered it to God can unlock what these Tubal, and prophesy against him.” —Ezekiel 38:1 be annexed to Russia. The prophecies mean. same year, he deployed the This passage mentions “Gog” same type of masked troops and “Magog.” Ezekiel is using the ancient names of these to mainland Ukraine to assist pro-Russian rebels in Donbass nations. What modern nation or nations do these peoples who want to separate from Ukraine. In spite of evidence represent? The Bible says Gog and Magog must be warned. So that these Russian operatives may have been responsible for 2 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET shooting down a commercial airplane in eastern Ukraine in to come to know Him. God is orchestrating His plan on this 2014, Russia continues to field troops in the region. planet, and not even the mighty, massive kings of the east The “latter years” prophecy about Gog, Magog and the can do anything but play right into His hand. All of this great prince of Rosh, including Meshech and Tubal, indicates that turmoil and war around the world will lead to the heathen Russia may conquer more former Soviet satellites. coming to know God. Under Putin, Russia is mobilized and aggressive. He is a pow- The rise of Vladimir Putin; Russia’s invasions; a budding erful prince. In 2005, he called the demise of the Soviet empire alliance between Russia, China and other Asian nations— “the greatest geopolitical catastrophe these are all signs that Bible prophecies of the century.” To put it mildly, most are true! Bible prophecy and just hon- people don’t agree with his statement. estly looking at the world reveals that After all, the oppressive Soviet regime this is all building toward a nuclear persecuted all kinds of people, impris- World War iii! oned them, and murdered countless When nuclear bombs begin deto- millions just because of their ideas and PRIDE IN ITS POWER nating, when a 200 million-man army Russia’s holds its mobilizes, when World War iii explodes, thoughts. Most people were glad to see annual Victory Day the Soviet Union break up in 1991. But military parade. it will seem like this will literally be the Vladimir Putin thinks very differently. end of the world, the end of life on Earth. He sees the Soviet Union as Russia’s Russia’s Attack Signals And it would be, except for something greatest glory in this modern age. Dangerous New Era else the Bible prophesies. The Bible Putin rules an immense territory, but Russia’s attack on Georgia in August forecasts not only the geopolitical sit- he wants to extend it even farther. If you marks the beginning of a dangerous uation we are facing right now and the think the world is too sophisticated or new era in history. This was the resulting violent eruption, but also what too nice for Russia to reconquer former first military strike of a rising Asian comes next: the precise events leading Soviet states and try to create a new Rus- superpower—and there will be to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ! sian empire—it has already happened! more! … Will the Georgia strike The Bible has been 100 percent The prophecy in Ezekiel 38 is being actually spark European unification? correct about its prophecies so far, fulfilled now. Will a crisis occur over Ukraine? That and it prophesies that the rise of Asia, When you look at what Russia is area is the breadbasket of Russia, the rise of Europe, and the doing, the burning question is, where is and surely it is willing to wage war clash of these two super- this leading? Well, the same Bible that over that as well. We have witnessed powers are all leading to forecast Vladimir Putin’s dominance the beginning of a new era! We saw the Second Coming! In fact, also forecast the answer and revealed an extraordinary military strike by these superpowers will be how it would affect the whole world! one of the kings of the east! fighting each other in the —GERALD FLURRY, AUG. 22, 2008 Holy Land and then fighting The Largest Army in History Jesus Christ Himself right in If the prophecy of Ezekiel seems amaz- Jerusalem! It will be the bloodiest bat- ingly up to date, look at Revelation 9:16: “And the number tle ever on Earth—yet it will mark the end of man ruling over of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand man and the injustice, tyranny, violence and death it produces. thousand: and I heard the number of them.” This verse uses If the Bible is exactly right about the prince of Rosh, you can an ancient description of soldiers, “horsemen,” and an entirely be certain it is right about the return of Jesus Christ! modern phenomenon: the fact that there are two hundred Notice Ezekiel 39: “[A]nd they shall know that I am the Lord. million of them. In fact, the entire book of Revelation is specif- … Then shall they know that I am the Lord their God …. Nei- ically for the end time. ther will I hide my face any more from them” (verses 6, 28-29). This prophecy is definitely for our modern era! This is an This is where these events are leading: All mankind will come enormous army even by current standards. The U.S. military to know the Eternal! Isn’t that wonderful? has only about 1.5 million personnel. Even in the 21st century, God prophesies massive destruction in connection with where could you find a 200 million-man the prince of Rosh and the 200 million-man army. But He also army? You will find it in the near future prophesies in the same books of Ezekiel and Revelation that in Russia, as well as in China. (Bible He will resurrect the dead who have never had the chance to prophecy also includes Japan and per- know Him. Then they will have the chance to know God! haps India in a power bloc it calls “the That is the greatest news we could hear! n kings of the east” in Revelation 16:12.) This may sound astounding, but the book of Joel describes this same army Vladimir Putin is prophesied in the Bible. and actually calls it God’s army! God is Learn more about who Vladimir Putin is in prophecy and what using this unrighteous power for His the Bible says he will lead Russia to do. Order your free booklet: images own purposes. And why? Because He The Prophesied ‘Prince of Russia.’ getty says He is going to cause the heathen MARCH 2017 3 Who Will Defend PREP FOR BEAR ATTACK Estonian volunteers participate in NATO’s biggest annual military Eastern Europe? competition on January 14. Estonia spends 2.2 percent of its gdp on defense, but Latvia and Lithuania set aside less than 1.5 percent. So many people, including Salumäe, say they are confused about America’s commitment TRAINING FOR WAR Lithuanian Rifleman to the defense of Eastern Europe. Union members carry The mere prospect of a thaw in out a training exercise. relations between Washington and the Kremlin has heightened the anxiety Donald Trump’s praise for Vladimir Putin has people from Estonia to across Eastern Europe. The Trumpet Ukraine nervously looking over their shoulders. by andrew miiller confidently forecasts that the fear currently driving Eastern Europeans very few weeks, Bärbel Salumäe 6,000-person military doesn’t stand a to join volunteer militias will undoubt- leaves her husband and two daugh- chance against Russia’s 845,000-per- edly play a major role in bringing E ters for a weekend. She doesn’t son juggernaut, but the league trains Eastern Europe into stronger military spend her weekend off at an Estonian private citizens to use automatic rifles unification with Western Europe in day spa; she spends it in the forest out- and prepares them to form a home fulfillment of Bible prophecies of a final side her village, holding a rifle. Salumäe guard that could hamper a successful resurrection of the Holy Roman Empire. is a member of the Estonian Defense Russian occupation. League, and is training to defend her “My husband says that if there is a war, Running From Russia country from a Russian invasion. he and the kids will take a boat to Swe- The 15,000 men and women in the Esto- Russian President Vladimir Putin’s den,” Salumäe told Swedish newspaper nian Defense League are not the only seizure of the Crimean Peninsula from Aftonbladet. “They plan to leave right people fearful of a Russian invasion. Ukraine in early 2014 struck fear in away, out over the Baltic Sea. He made it About 9,000 people have joined Latvia’s the hearts of many Estonians. Their clear that I should follow. But I will have Home Guard, and 10,000 have joined

country has only been independent a war location and a duty to my country. Lithuania’s Riflemen’s Union. There is petras from Russia for 25 years. Now that Of course, I cannot say how it would feel only one real purpose for these mili-

Putin is regaining the motherland’s lost if it was serious; if the children stood tias: to resist Russian occupation. Last malukas territory, many in the Baltics fear they on the beach and cried and I had to say December, Poland’s senate approved / may be next on his hit list. goodbye” (Nov. 22, 2016). a volunteer defense force to begin afp / Salumäe is only 29 years old, but she Many Estonians are concerned that recruiting up to 50,000 people. getty

had older relatives who disappeared the inauguration of United States Pres- In eastern Ukraine, many combat- images in the Soviet gulags. In a personal way, ident Donald Trump may make a Rus- ants in volunteer battalions have been ,

she knows the Cold War glory days of sian invasion of the Baltic states more absorbed into the Ukrainian military raigo Russia that Putin extols are far darker likely. While campaigning last July, to fight against pro-Russian insur-

pajula than he claims. Trump suggested to the New York Times gents—who themselves are reportedly /

About 15,000 men and women have that he might withhold U.S. involvement being reinforced by Russian troops. afp /

joined the Estonian Defense League, a in any defense of the Baltics if those The Ukrainian volunteers are not getty volunteer militia that trains citizens nations had not met the nato require- professional soldiers; they are citizens

images in how to wage guerrilla war against ment of spending 2 percent of gross fighting for their country. “Without an occupying force. Estonia’s tiny domestic product on defense. us, the situation would be far more 4 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET grievous,” Vitaly Feshenko, a former ally—grew so close that in August 2016, furniture salesman, told the New York Russia’s Middle Russia launched air strikes from an Times. “We are lawyers, businessmen Iranian airbase, the first time a major and housewives” (Nov. 22, 2014). East Invasion world power had done so since the Over the past decade, Vladimir Islamic Revolution of 1979. Putin’s military has conquered more by anthony chibarirwe Russia has also strengthened its rela- than 35,000 square miles of territory ussian President Vladimir tions with Turkey. The two countries for Russia. These conquests include Putin lamented the Soviet have conducted joint air strikes against the de facto annexation of Abkhazia R Union’s collapse as “the greatest the Islamic State in northern Syria. and South Ossetia during Russia’s geopolitical catastrophe of the century.” As for the negotiations for a political invasion of Georgia in 2008; the de jure It is now clear that the loss he feels is settlement in Syria, Russia has aggres- annexation of the Crimean Peninsula not confined to former Soviet satellite sively taken the lead. In December 2016, in 2014, at the start of Russia’s invasion states. It extends to Moscow’s former Russia and Turkey brokered a ceasefire of Ukraine; and the so-called soft client states far and wide—even as far deal for Aleppo and for the parts of Syria annexation of the self-styled People’s afield as the Middle East. not controlled by Islamic extremists. Republics of Donetsk and Luhansk in When the Syrian Arab Spring began Russia also led Syrian peace talks, which 2015, where fighting is still ongoing. in March 2011, Russia (and China) began in Kazakhstan on January 23. In addition to these military conquests, opposed every major world power by Libya, which borders the western Putin maintains a sizable military task vetoing United Nations Security Council edge of the Middle East, is another for- force in the self-proclaimed republic of resolutions that would have condemned mer Soviet client state in which Russia Transnistria, an autonomous region of the Bashar Assad regime. Britain’s has increasingly intervened. When the Moldova that borders western Ukraine. UN ambassador condemned the act as Libyan Arab Spring and a nato-led mil- He has also deployed, to the Russian side putting “national interests ahead of the itary intervention toppled Muammar of the border in the east, 55,000 troops lives of millions of Syrians.” Since then, Qadhafi in 2011, the nation descended armed with nuclear-capable munitions nearly half a million people have been into chaos. President Obama later and ready to overwhelm Ukraine and killed in that country. described his intervention in Libya possibly other former Soviet states. In 2013, Assad crossed a “red line” without a plan for the aftermath as his Right now, Russia’s military is more drawn by United States President “worst mistake.” The nation now has powerful than at any point since the end Barack Obama when he used chemical essentially three separate governments. of the Cold War, in spite of the fact that weapons multiple times. Russia seized Russia has provided direct support its economy is suffering from falling the opportunity and brokered a deal to none of these governments, but it energy prices and Western sanctions that would remove Assad’s chemical has allied with Cmdr. Khalifa Haftar forcing the Kremlin to cut next year’s weapons. From that point forward, Rus- of the Libyan National Army. Haftar’s defense budget by about 30 percent. sia became the most influential player military organization has been the Since Putin rose to power 17 years ago, in Syria and the greater Middle East. most successful group in combating Russia has spent billions modernizing In September 2014, a U.S.-led coali- terrorists in Libya, but it opposes the nuclear warheads, intercontinental tion began bombarding Islamist rebels only Libyan government recognized ballistic missiles, anti-aircraft systems, from Syrian airspace. One year later, and supported by the UN and West. fighter jets and warships. Putin has Russia joined the Syrian battlefield Twice in 2016, Haftar visited Russia transformed Russia’s always-intimi- with its own air strikes—its first mili- to request support for his military dating military into a leaner, meaner tary conflict since the Cold War outside ventures. On January 11, Russia air- fighting force capable of and now expe- former Soviet Union borders. lifted Haftar from his headquarters rienced in invading other nations. Russia established an airbase near in Tobruk to its Admiral Kuznetsov Putin has stationed 330,000 troops the Syrian port city of Latakia and a aircraft carrier. The warship had along his country’s European border, naval facility in Tartus. Its target list anchored in the Mediterranean near thus provoking many European nations included Islamist rebels and “moderate” Tobruk as it was sailing from Syria to to remilitarize. Ukraine increased its rebel groups, groups the U.S.-led coali- Russia. While on board, Haftar con- military budget by 26 percent the year tion was supporting. ducted a video conference with Russia’s after its eastern territory erupted in Putin’s Russia has repeatedly violated defense minister. Russia’s Defense Min- war; Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania an air-safety agreement with the U.S. in istry said the two “discussed pressing increased their collective spending on Syria, and the threat of a war with Rus- issues in the fight against international new military equipment by 85 percent sia has intimidated Washington from terrorist groups in the Middle East.” between 2014 and 2016. Poland has imposing a no-fly zone in Syria. Beyond Libya, Syria, Turkey, Iran hiked military spending 22 percent Russia formed a joint alliance with and Iraq, Russia in recent years has since the Russian annexation of Crimea. Syria, Iran, Iraq and Hezbollah and also increased its cooperation with However, military spending and established an information exchange or involvement in Israel, Egypt, Saudi volunteer militias are not long-term center in Baghdad. Russia’s relation- Arabia and Afghanistan as part of its guarantees for Eastern Europe against ship with Iran—Assad’s strongest remarkable Mideast offensive. n MARCH 2017 5 Russian aggression. To stay free of the aftermath of Georgia’s inevitable aggression against Ukraine would be “a Russia’s clutches, these nations need a defeat: “We killed as many of them as grave mistake.” superpower’s protection, and they know we could, but where are our friends?” They received a response when, only it. According to nato and the post-Cold To the northeast, President Petro a week later, Mr. Trump told the Times War order, that superpower has been Poroshenko maintained Ukraine’s of London and Bild that the nato alli- the United States. But America’s new strong alliance with the U.S. But when ance was obsolete and indicated that he administration has indicated it may Russia invaded his country in 2014, was open to lifting sanctions on Russia be unwilling or unable to guarantee America did not help. The U.S., Britain as part of a nuclear weapons reduction Eastern Europe’s safety. These nations and Russia signed an agreement with deal. “They have sanctions on Russia— can either subject themselves to Russia, Ukraine in 1994 promising to ensure let’s see if we can make some good deals fight the Red Army with small arms, or that nation’s territorial integrity in with Russia,’’ he said. “For one thing, I look elsewhere for an ally. exchange for the Ukrainians forfeiting think nuclear weapons should be way their nuclear weapons. Since then, down and reduced very substantially, No Trust in America Russia has taken Crimea, Donetsk and that’s part of it.’’ When Eastern European nations gained Luhansk, and the Obama administra- Comments like this from an Amer- their freedom from the Soviets,they tion simply ignored the promise. ican president demoralize Eastern placed their trust in America. In the The Ukrainians learned the hard European leaders. America’s will is 26 years since, however, many of them way that American promises were broken, and Russia, Europe and the have become bitterly disillusioned. empty rhetoric. rest of the world know it! During his 2005 visit to Georgia, So although U.S. Senators John President George W. Bush told an audi- McCain and Lindsey Graham traveled Turning to Germany ence of 150,000 people that, “As you to Estonia last December to promise After Russia’s 2008 invasion of Georgia, build a free and democratic Georgia, the people of the Baltics that America the Czech government made an about- the American people will stand with you.” will never abandon them, many people face and signed the Treaty of Lisbon, The Georgian people learned the see that it already has. colloquially known as the European hard way that American promises were Seventeen leading officials from Cen- Union’s constitution. This turnaround empty rhetoric. tral and Eastern European countries— was brought about largely due to the President Mikheil Saakashvili of including Bulgaria, Romania, Estonia, efforts of Czech Prime Minister Mirek Georgia was a strong U.S. ally, yet when Latvia and Sweden—penned a letter Topolanek, who wrote in an editorial Russia invaded his country in 2008, no to then President-elect Donald Trump published by the Czech daily Mladá help came from America. As one Geor- on January 9 arguing that lifting sanc- Fronta dnes, “It’s by far better to kiss gian soldier told the New York Times in tions against Russia or accepting its the German chancellor than to hug the Russian bear” (Nov. 20, 2008). In many ways, that sentiment has ESTONIA RUSSIAN STATELET SPONSORSHIP defined Eastern European politics for the past decade. After President Obama LATVIA TRANSNISTRIA scrapped the previous administration’s 1,500 Troops LITHUANIA RUSSIA plans for a European missile defense CRIMEA shield in 2009, Polish Foreign Minister 28,000 Troops Radosław Sikorski transformed from BELARUS PEOPLE’S REPUBLICS OF the region’s most prominent transatlan- DONETSK AND LUHANSK ticist to its top advocate for European 8,000 Troops integration. He famously delivered a UKRAINE ABKHAZIA KAZAKHSTAN speech in November 2011 actually call- 4,000 Troops ing for Germany to lead Europe. SOUTH OSSETIA “I will probably be the first Polish for- MOLDOVA 3,000 Troops ROMANIA eign minister in history to say so, but NORGONO-KARABAKH here it is,” he announced: “I fear Ger- No Troops man power less than I am beginning to BULGARIA LATAKIA PROVINCE fear German inactivity.” GEORGIA 4,000 Troops Now that Russia has invaded Ukraine (Estimate for all of Syria) AZERB. and is threatening the Baltics, Germany TURKEY has woken up to the fact that Europe EURASIAN UNION will no longer be able to rely on America RUSSIAN STATELET to guarantee its security. IRAN MILITARY BASE SYRIA NAVAL BASE In a speech delivered in Brussels on CYPRUS AIR BASE IRAQ January 12, German Chancellor Angela EASTERN EUROPE PAGE 32 u 6 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET NEW WORLD ORDER Donald Trump’s inauguration is forcing world leaders to rethink their policies.

Trump Tells Germany: ‘TAKE CONTROL!’

The pressure building up Russia had overrun Western Europe, interests, while Berlin focuses on build- against Germany will force it the Soviet threat to the United States ing economic, not political, power. to aggressively pursue its own would have exploded—so America There were disagreements, of course. interests for the first time since defended Germany, to the point of At times, Germany pushed its own World War II. by richard palmer reuniting the very country it had agenda. The Balkans are a good exam- helped to divide after the war. And ple: Germany recognized Croatia’s s America now Germany’s since the Cold War, America and Ger- enemy? With the election of many have faced a common threat in “The inauguration of Donald Trump, the German gov- radical Islam. ernment and news media think so. America has taken care of Germany’s Donald Trump heralds ISince the end of World War ii, Ger- economic interests too. Both countries the arrival of a new many has sat in America’s shadow. The wanted free and stable global trade, world order. … Trump nation hasn’t aggressively pushed its with open oceans and trade routes. own interests—it hasn’t had to. Amer- Meanwhile Germany had good is the end of the world ica has taken care of them. reason to keep its head down. The as we know it.” That time is over. President Trump destruction left by the Nazis remains —Spiegel Online is ushering in the greatest change in in living memory. If Berlin threw its the world order since the fall of the weight around, other nations would independence from Yugoslavia against Berlin Wall. quickly oppose it. major opposition. But once America images During the Cold War, German and German policy, then, has been simple: came around, Berlin was happy to let

getty American interests were the same. If America takes care of Germany’s general Washington do the hard work. MARCH 2017 7 Now, however, times are different. In “Can Merkel’s Europe now hold Online (op cit). Germany’s leaders gen- an increasingly dangerous and chaotic together?” this article asked. “Can she uinely think America is out to get them. world, Germany has to stand aggres- become a worthy adversary to Trump sively for its interests—for the first in the approaching conflicts over trade Germany Under Attack time since World War ii. regulations, international agreements, What could possibly make Germany so The threat comes not from a few and the liberal legal and economic desperate? On the surface, the nation offhand comments by the new order that has been so important to the is doing great. The economy grew faster president, but his entire worldview. United States for the last six decades?” than forecast in 2016. Rather than Mr. Trump promises a revolutionary (January 20; emphasis added through- borrowing, the government is actually foreign policy. Rather than pursuing out). One of the most popular and paying off its debt. The nation is rapidly America’s long- term interests, he influential magazines in Europe sees growing in power. aims to maximize short-term profits. America as the enemy—and wonders if Yet Germany is vulnerable. Its polit- He’s about the balance sheet, not the their leader is aggressive enough. ical order is fragmenting. The upstart balance of powers. In an interview in 1990, Mr. Trump Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) and This has triggered an almost frantic singled out Germany and Japan as the Left Party (the former Commu- response in Germany. “The inaugu- America’s top two enemies—because, nists of East Germany) are growing in ration of Donald Trump heralds the he said, those two “are making billions popularity, threatening to destabilize arrival of a new world order,” wrote screwing us.” the country’s entire political system. Spiegel Online. “Trump is the end of the “Merkel’s staff is convinced that his Both are generally considered too world as we know it.” views haven’t changed,” wrote Spiegel extreme for mainstream parties to

In Challenge, Opportunity

onald Trump’s presidency poses a great threat to Germany, but there are major opportunities too. D President Trump’s retreat from the world and criti- cism of the EU is piling pressure on Europe. He wants the EU to collapse under that pressure—but it could force Europeans to unite. After Mr. Trump’s Times and Bild interview, German Chancellor Angela Merkel stated, “I think that we Europeans have our destiny in our own hands, and I would very strongly CARPE DIEM argue that we all stand together.” French Foreign Minister German Defense Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said, “The best response is European unity.” von der Leyen consults with German troops. Talk of nato’s obsolescence is encouraging Europe to pur- sue its own military force—something Germany has pushed for years. Without America’s security guarantee, the EU “can clashing interests. The only interest Russia and America address its current geopolitical realities only by developing share is opposition to Islamic terrorism, but Putin’s support its own capacity to project political and military power,” of Iran reveals his lack of commitment on this front. explained former German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer Russia and Germany have more common interests, which (Project Syndicate, January 5). is why they have forged agreements throughout history. “Hostile inauguration speech,” tweeted the EU Parliament’s Mr. Trump is paving the way for Germany to move closer to lead negotiator on Brexit, Guy Verhofstadt. “We can’t sit Russia—an alliance Berlin could use to great advantage in the around & hope for US support & cooperation. Europe must long run. take its destiny & security in its own hands.” At the same time, America’s rapprochement with Russia Europe was already working on military union with a new is pushing Eastern Europe closer to Germany. This region seriousness. Mr. Trump’s election is accelerating those efforts. knows it cannot stand up to Russia alone, and has spent the President Trump’s move toward Russia also contains last few years struggling to find a patron. With America opportunities for Germany. under Mr. Obama unwilling to confront Russia, and with No American détente with Russia can last. The two coun- Europe struggling to devise a coherent foreign policy, the tries have almost no interests in common. Their rivalry has region has been trying to decide which is the least bad option.

played out throughout history—it’s the classic great land An America that cozies up to Russia makes Germany—with getty power versus great sea power competition that pit Sparta its much weaker military and its history of striking deals with

images against Athens, Rome against Carthage and Britain against Russia—that least bad option. Watch for Eastern Europe to France. Such powers never get along; they have too many shift toward Germany. richard palmer 8 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET work with. Terrorism and immigra- exports for 150 days—without needing Mr. Trump’s fondness for Britain tion—major threats in their own to consult Congress. may be designed to hurt the EU. British right—are only pushing more voters Much in President Trump’s analysis Prime Minister Theresa May was the toward these parties. is right. Germany’s export miracle first world leader to visit President Less appreciated is Germany’s is largely because of the euro. The Trump at the White House. His admin- economic peril. Germany is the most euro is a de facto subsidy for German istration is promising lucrative trade export-dependent of all big economies. goods. Weak economies in southern deals to post-Brexit Britain, a marked Exports account for almost half its Europe keep the euro weak—and cheap. change from his predecessor, who said economic output, compared to only Cheaper euros mean cheaper German that if Britain left the EU, he would put one fifth for America. A decline in goods, which means more exports it at “the back of the queue.” exports would have major, immediate from Germany. If Germany were not Such deals between Britain and consequences. part of the euro, its bmws would be America would undermine Europe’s Here Mr. Trump’s outlook directly more expensive. Mr. Trump is perfectly position in any Brexit negotiation. Brit- threatens Germany. He believes free justified in taxing them. ain would enter talks with the world’s trade means other nations taking Nevertheless, a core German interest most powerful economy on its side. advantage of America. He wants to is threatened. Germany must persuade More importantly, any such trade completely reevaluate global trade America not to impose tariffs—find a deals would effectively represent an policy. No nation has more to lose from way to make free trade with Germany invitation from President Trump to this reevaluation than Germany. in Mr. Trump’s short-term interest. In any other nation thinking of following Given Germany’s current political other words, Germany needs power and Britain. Quitting Europe is not a leap in trouble, economic turmoil would spark leverage—a return to power politics and the dark, he would be saying. Abandon a political crisis unprecedented in its an aggressive pursuit of self-interest. Europe and we’ll welcome you with postwar history. If the AfD and Com- “Our prosperity is at risk more than open arms and great deals. No wonder munists are currently polling around at any other time in the past 60 years,” officials in Brussels are worried. 10 to 15 percent each, how high would warned Markus Kerber, director gen- Mr. Trump’s isolationism poses an their popularity soar after a crash? eral of the Federation of German Indus- additional, though less direct, threat They could win a majority of votes tries. If Mr. Trump follows through between them—which would mean with his rhetoric on free trade, “the Mr. Trump’s unique that no coalition government would be German prosperity model would fail.” possible without one of these groups. But the threat President Trump rejection of America’s The dangers posed by an export crisis poses to Germany’s economy goes long-term interests in Germany are far greater than a slight beyond just direct trade. could lead him to increase in unemployment: It could destroy Germany’s political system. Trump Vs. the EU tolerate a Russian Yet this is exactly the kind of eco- Germany’s reliance on exports makes expansion that nomic turmoil Donald Trump threat- European unity a core interest. Seven ens to ignite. of Germany’s top 10 destinations for all former U.S. exports are in the European Union. presidents opposed. ‘Our Prosperity Is at Risk’ If the EU unravels or the euro falls In his interview with Bild and the Times, apart, it means economic depression to European unity. For years, American published January 15, Mr. Trump for Germany. leadership had kept the EU from facing threatened bmw with tariffs of 35 per- Unfortunately for Berlin, President the kind of strain that now threatens cent. America is the top destination for Trump wants exactly that. The EU, he to tear the Continent apart. Though German exports. If Germany’s economy said in his January 15 interview, is this leadership couldn’t protect Europe is to grow, it must increase exports. “basically a vehicle for Germany.” He from economic problems like the euro With most of Germany’s export mar- praised Britain’s decision to quit, add- crisis, Europe didn’t have to ask ques- kets in trouble, America is one the few ing, “I believe others will leave.” tions like what do we do about Russia? locations with potential for growth. Spiegel Online wrote, “Officials in How do we confront terrorism? The Anything threatening to slow that Brussels are concerned that one of questions were there, but the answers increase is a danger to Germany. But Mr. Trump’s foreign-policy goals may be didn’t matter much; America set the Trump wants to go much further and that of dividing the EU—in areas like direction for the West, and Europe drastically cut German sales to America. the environment and energy policy, for merely decided whether to hop on By toying with tariffs, Mr. Trump example, but particularly in its rela- board or not. America did all the hard is threatening to destroy Germany’s tionship with Russia” (op cit). work, persuading or cajoling nations to economy. For 60 years, Americans have been follow the American lead. Germany worries that Mr. Trump cheering for European unification. Even before Mr. Trump’s election, could use the 1974 Trade Act to impose Now they have a president who is ideo- Europe’s answers were starting to tariffs of up to 15 percent on German logically opposed to it. GERMANY PAGE 26 u MARCH 2017 9 from Egypt, the Golan Heights from Syria, and the West Bank from Jordan, expanding Israel’s territory by 300 thomas percent. At the time, many Jewish

coex leaders and foreign journalists alike / recognized this as a miraculous victory. getty

The most symbolic and emotional images moment of the war for the Jews , occurred on the third day, when Israeli menahem Army Chaplain Rabbi Shlomo Goren

gathered soldiers before the Western kahana As united Jerusalem turns 50, Wall to blow the shofar at Judaism’s holi- / we ask: Will it make it to 51? est site. The solemn blast announced to afp / by brent nagtegaal the world that the Jews had captured getty

the Old City and the Temple Mount. For images the first time in almost 2,000 years, , jerusalem Jerusalem was united under Jewish rule. Council (unsc) by choosing not to veto a stefan his year marks the 50th But now, 50 years on, we must ask: resolution that calls Israeli communi-

anniversary of the Six- Will united Jerusalem make it to 51? ties in the West Bank illegal and invalid. tyszko

Day War. Over several The resolution, however, has a more / getty turbulent days in 1967, Unilaterally Dividing Jerusalem sinister clause than most previous

the tiny Jewish state of Entering 2017, more attention is being attempts to impugn Israel’s claims over images

Israel defended itself focused on Jerusalem than any year in the territory it won in the 1967 war. , getty against three Arab armies simulta- recent memory. Resolution 2334 attacks Israel’s

T images neously. The Jews not only survived, On Dec. 23, 2016, the United States control of and sovereignty over not just but by the war’s abrupt end, they had broke with its traditional role as Israel’s the territory of the West Bank, but over

(2) taken possession of the Sinai Peninsula protector at the United Nations Security Jerusalem itself. 10 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET FLEETING PEACE watch Despite its name, JERUSALEM Jerusalem is more known for uprisings and bloodshed than peace.

Notice the first three points of the of the “territories” as in previous resolution. They say that the unsc resolutions? (emphasis added): Because the real target of this resolu- tion is the unity of Jerusalem. images 1. Reaffirms that the establishment by According to the unsc—which is the getty / Israel of settlements in the Palestinian closest thing this planet has to a world territory occupied since 1967, including government—Israeli rule over East hudson East Jerusalem, has no legal validity and Jerusalem “has no legal validity and

derek constitutes a flagrant violation under constitutes a flagrant violation under , international law and a major obstacle international law.” to the achievement of the two-state In each of these three points, the claudiad / solution and a just, lasting and compre- resolution draws specific attention to hensive peace; East Jerusalem, not just the West Bank. 2. Reiterates its demand that Israel East Jerusalem of course is technically istockphoto , immediately and completely cease all part of the West Bank, but all previous images

settlement activities in the occupied negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian territory, including East Palestinians, such as the Oslo Accords construction in East Jerusalem beyond getty / Jerusalem, and that it fully respect all of in the 1990s and the Camp David Sum- the now-invisible 1967 lines is also illegal. its legal obligations in this regard; mit in 2000, dealt with Jerusalem as a The UN has unilaterally divided bettmann

, 3. Underlines that it will not recognize any separate issue from the West Bank. The Jerusalem, and Israel didn’t even changes to the June 4, 1967, lines, including issue of Jerusalem in a final peace deal have a vote—or an ally willing to vote images with regard to Jerusalem, other than those was to be negotiated separately. on its behalf.

getty agreed by the parties through negotiations …. / But now, according to the United afp

/ Nations—notably enabled and sup- Past Precedent

coex Why single out Jerusalem in the ported by America’s abstention—the Some past Israeli leaders have offered

resolution? Why not just mention the Israelis not only cannot build or East Jerusalem to the Palestinians in thomas West Bank, or the more general term live in Judea and Samaria, but any an effort to reach a peace agreement. MARCH 2017 11 One of these was former Prime Minis- ter Ehud Barak. In 1993, the government of Yitzhak Rabin signed the first set of the Oslo Accords. It became the new foundation from which Israeli-Palestinian peace would be negotiated. As part of the accords, the future of Jerusalem was declared to be a separate subject for A SHAMEFUL RECORD future negotiations. The likelihood of Israel giving up sovereignty of East Jeru- AGAINST ISRAEL salem in a peace deal was highly unlikely. Rabin even declared in his last Knesset speech before he was assassinated in 1995 that Jerusalem must always remain 2009 JUNE 4 President Obama condemns Israeli settlements in the West Bank the united capital of Israel. as “occupation” during his famous Arab outreach speech in Cairo, Egypt. Five years later, however, one of Rabin’s own followers, Ehud Barak, 2010 MARCH 23 President Obama meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin went against Rabin’s stance. Netanyahu; presents him with 13 demands; abruptly leaves room after In 2000, during the waning months disagreement over Jewish settlements; no customary photo op. of his time in office, Barak offered Palestinian Liberation Organization 2011 MAY 19 Barack Obama becomes the first United States president to chairman Yasser Arafat, a terrorist, officially endorse a two-state division of Israel based on its pre-1967 borders. the West Bank and East Jerusalem in return for peace as part of the Camp 2012 MARCH High-level sources reveal that the Obama administration allegedly David summit negotiations with U.S. leaked Israel’s secret relationship with Azerbaijan, where Israeli planes President Bill Clinton. could refuel for an air strike against Iranian nuclear facilities. This offer signaled a radical shift in the Jews’ negotiating platform: Israel SEPTEMBER 11 President Obama refuses to meet with Prime Minister was now willing to negotiate away Netanyahu during the Israeli leader’s visit to the United States. East Jerusalem. Israel had always said Jerusalem would be undivided, but 2013 MARCH 21 Obama visits Israel; refuses invitation to speak before Knesset; apparently the Israelis themselves were speaks to students about Israel’s “foreign army” in Palestinian territory; says, divided over that issue. “It’s not fair that a Palestinian child cannot grow up in a state of their own.” Dore Gold, adviser to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, recounted in his 2015 MARCH U.S. State Department attempts to oust Netanyahu from power book The Fight for Jerusalem that when by funding an opposition political group in Israel with $349,276. the Israeli people learned that Jerusa- lem was being offered as part of a peace APRIL 6 President Obama says in an interview that Iran’s recognition of deal, they were furious. This led to the Israel will not be a precondition of the Iran nuclear agreement. largest demonstration in Israel’s history: A protest march to the Old City walls 2016 JANUARY 16 President Obama lifts economic sanctions against Iran, drew an incredible 400,000 Israelis. opening the path for an Iranian nuclear bomb. Yasser Arafat refused the offer. Still, at the time, some leftist Israeli officials JANUARY 19 U.S. supports EU regulation requiring goods originating in considered proposing a unsc resolution the West Bank to be labeled separately from those made in the rest of Israel. where the parameters for peace includ-

ing East Jerusalem would be locked trumpet SEPTEMBER White House publishes a transcript with a speech location as into Israel’s new negotiating position. / Jerusalem, Israel, then republishes it with a strike through the name “Israel.” That didn’t happen in 2001. But getty

fast-forward to December 2016, and images DECEMBER 23 President Obama’s United Nations ambassador breaks a that Security Council resolution has /

decades-long diplomatic precedent and allows a Security Council resolution passed. The international community istockphoto to pass that condemns Israeli settlements in the West Bank as illegal. has unilaterally decided, with U.S. support, that East Jerusalem does not / 2017 JANUARY 20 In his final hours as president, Mr. Obama gives $221 million belong to the Jews. East Jerusalem is claudiad to the Palestinian Authority. Two House Republicans had placed a hold on the no longer up for negotiation: the UN has money due to concerns about the PA, but the president did not honor the hold. decided that it is Palestinian land and 12 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET the Jews have no right to it. Jerusalem, Palestinians ‘resolve’ by taking East watch JERUSALEM according to the United Nations, is not Jerusalem by force. That is why I the united capital of the Jews. believe the conservatives could regain control in Israel. They have a stronger Setting the Stage will to fight for the land they believe Why is this important? It would be belongs to the Jews.” easy to disregard Resolution 2334; it’s At the time Mr. Flurry made this nothing more than talk. Israel today, statement, a passive left-wing govern- especially under the leadership of Prime ment was in power. But for this proph- Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, would ecy to unfold, it appeared conservatives refuse to concede the Old City and East would have to return to power. Jerusalem to the Palestinians; the prime This has since happened. DIVISION Palestinians minister himself has said as much. If the Netanyahu will not accept Palestinian in the West Bank throw stones at Israeli police. UN decides to enforce this resolution, it control of the Temple Mount or East would have to march member-nation Jerusalem. Yet buoyed by this recent res- armies into Jerusalem to force Israel olution and likely further action by the The UNSC resolution out. Most people agree that it would be international community in the coming highly unlikely and irregular for the UN months, the Palestinians could be moti- does not improve the to be able to organize itself that way. vated to make a run for it themselves. But it is possible that the Palestin- In this environment, the unsc res- chances for peace ians themselves could react to this olution does not improve the chances between the Israelis resolution in an armed uprising and/or for peace between the Israelis and the terrorist intifada and try to take what Palestinians. It instead undermines and the Palestinians. the UN has now said already belongs Israel’s negotiating position and to them. At that point, Israel would encourages the Palestinians to fight It instead undermines suppress the violence. One would think for the land, thus bringing into play that, on the basis of the resolution, the Zechariah’s pivotal prophecy of half of Israel’s negotiating international community would then Jerusalem falling. position and encourages retaliate against Israel. Added to this, Prime Minister For the past two decades, the Trumpet Netanyahu seems to be viewing the the Palestinians to fight. has forecast this exact scenario we see presidency of Donald Trump in the developing. Pointing United States as a to a prophecy in the green light to virtually Jerusalem Mr. Netanyahu stated, biblical book of Zech- disregard the United “There is no longer a need to coordinate ariah, Trumpet editor Nation Security Coun- construction in the Jewish neighbor- in chief Gerald Flurry sel’s decision. This was hoods in East Jerusalem. We can build has said for many years evident in the first where we want and as much as we that half of Jerusalem week of Mr. Trump’s want.” However, it is likely that these will indeed fall into tenure when the Israeli actions will only further infuriate the Palestinian hands. government approved Palestinians and the rest of the world. In March 2006, he construction for nearly This will only increase the volatility of elaborated on how it 600 apartments in the situation. would come about: “It east Jerusalem as In 2017, all eyes are going to be on seems the Palestinians well as almost 2,500 Jerusalem. Zechariah’s prophecy of could get East Jerusa- abodes in outlying half of the city falling is a verifiable and lem, minus the Temple areas of the West Bank highly visible event that sets off a chain See infographic Page 18 Mount, without a fight. in direct defiance of reaction of the fulfillment of subse- Zechariah’s prophecy the resolution. After quent prophecies leading to the coming implies that there will be an impasse the decision to proceed with of the Messiah. over the Temple Mount—which the the construction in East To understand in detail the events to follow Target: Jerusalem the fall of East Jerusalem, read The Bible says the bloodiest city in history is about to get bloodier. Gerald Flur- Find out why and what will happen next in the Holy City. ry’s booklet images Request your free copy of Gerald Flurry’s booklet Jerusalem in Prophecy. Jerusalem in getty Prophecy. n MARCH 2017 13 people of Antioch accepted his rule, Who Was though they knew it was not his right. ANTIOCHUS Antiochus and the Jews Antiochus’s main foreign-policy objec- EPIPHANES? tive was to take over the Ptolemaic Kingdom, which was based in Egypt. After a few successful campaigns, Antiochus ventured once more to Egypt to finish the job. This time, the Roman Republic sent its fleet to support the Ptolemies. Instead of facing off with the Romans, Antiochus wisely withdrew his forces from Egypt, never to return. On his journey from Egypt back to Barack Obama’s treatment of Israel hearkens back to one of Jewish Syria in 168 b.c., Antiochus decided to history’s most ruthless anti-Semites. by brent nagtegaal take his rage out on one of his subject peoples: the Jews. fter the Obama adminis- upbringing. He was well educated in Over the previous decade, many of tration enabled United the most acclaimed schools, rubbing the Jews in Judea’s capital city had Nations Security Council shoulders with the greatest intellectu- been Hellenized, adopting the culture Resolution 2334 to pass, als of the period. He befriended many of that dominated the Seleucid Kingdom declaringA many Jews illegal residents in the young Roman aristocrats. Members and beyond. But the Jews still practiced their own country, some analysts com- of the Roman government hoped that if many of their ancient traditions and pared America’s president to Antiochus they treated Antiochus well, he would laws. The Seleucids held power over Epiphanes, one of the worst villains in eventually ensure an alliance between the affairs and tribute of Judea, but Jewish history. In doing so, they were the Seleucid Kingdom and Rome. they allowed its people to keep many of actually echoing a comparison that In his later teen years, news reached their customs. Trumpet editor in chief Gerald Flurry Rome that Antiochus’s father had died The Jews had heard that Antiochus had made six years ago. You can read and his brother, Seleucus Philopater, had been killed, and a rival priest had his free booklet America Under Attack, had assumed the crown in Antioch. become high priest, throwing off the published in 2013, for a full explanation. Antiochus was released when Philopa- priest Antiochus had appointed into Who was Antiochus? Here is a survey ter’s young son, the new crown prince, that office. When Antiochus arrived of the history that has become so rele- replaced him as Rome’s hostage. on the scene, he launched into one of vant because of recent events. After almost a decade of being held the most inexplicably barbarous acts in Rome, Antiochus began his journey in history. Taking Power back toward his homeland. On the way, Antiochus went first to the temple Antiochus was never meant to lead the he stopped in Athens and was employed in Jerusalem and set up a statue of the Seleucid Kingdom. He was the son of as assistant to the city’s chief magis- Greek god Jupiter Olympus in the holy Antiochus (iii) the Great, but he was trate for a few years. of holies. On the altar of sacrifice in the the third son, not the firstborn crown Then Antiochus received news about temple courtyard, he forced the priests prince. In fact, for much of his child- Philopater: His brother had been to sacrifice pig flesh to the pagan gods. hood, Antiochus lived far away from the murdered at the hands of one of his Anyone in Jerusalem who was seen Syrian capital, as a resident hostage of treasurers. Immediately, Antiochus practicing any form of religion other the Roman Republic. However, he would thought, This is my time to act! than Antiochus’s was sentenced to eventually lead one of the most ferocious The Seleucid throne should have immediate death. Wherever books attacks against the Jews in antiquity. rightfully passed to Philopater’s young of the Bible were found, they were When Antiochus was a boy, his father son, but Antiochus quickly traveled to destroyed, as were the people in whose desired to expand Seleucid territory out Syria to take the throne for himself. possession they were found. of the Levant and into Greece. There Aided by some of the powerful people In order to ensure the Jews did not he met the Roman Republic in a fierce he had befriended while in Athens, revert back to their religion, Antiochus battle. He lost and was ordered to pay a Antiochus entered Antioch secretly in ordered that a massive fortress be massive annual tribute to Rome and to 175 b.c. before revealing himself at a constructed just south of the temple. gary send representatives from the Seleucid public gathering. Using the oratorical This towering citadel gave Antiochus’s dorning family to Rome as hostages. Among skill he had gained while in Rome and forces the ability to view everything /

those hostages was young Antiochus iv. Athens, the returning royal appealed taking place in the temple area. trumpet Confined to Rome, young Antiochus to the hearts of the people, seemingly Its impregnable walls also allowed received the highest class of Roman full of kindness and compassion. The ANTIOCHUS PAGE 36 u 14 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET CONQUERED watch Artist’s rendering of JERUSALEM the Crusaders’ capture of Jerusalem in 1099

Why You Must Watch

JERUSALEMJerusalem has a bloody past and an and threatening reality on a daily basis. Several scriptures in the Bible show even bloodier immediate future. Knife assaults, suicide bombings and that this city bears significance unlike Beyond that, it is destined for rocket attacks are commonplace. any other. Jerusalem is at the core of eternal glory! by gerald flurry Several recent events practically the eternal plan of God and the key guarantee that this type of violence to the future of mankind. We cannot or thousands of years, will increase. Sadly, the prophecies of afford to ignore this special city. We images horrifically brutal wars the Bible reveal that life in Jerusalem must watch Jerusalem. getty

/ have been fought for con- will get a lot worse before it gets better. In the days when King Solomon trol of Jerusalem. It is the What happens in this city is import- reigned there, God became angry signol bloodiest city on Earth. The ant to every person on Earth. You need because of his sins. He said he would emile Jewish people face a gloomy to understand why. strip the kingdom of Israel from him. F MARCH 2017 15 Then He said, “Howbeit I will not rend This is a prophecy of a calamitous away all the kingdom; but will give one event: a foreign army, an “abomination tribe to thy son for David my servant’s of desolation,” surrounding Jerusalem sake, and for Jerusalem’s sake which just before besieging it! This is about I have chosen” (1 Kings 11:13). to happen—before this age of man This is one of several biblical verses finally ends and just before the return that show God has chosen Jerusalem. of Jesus Christ! I explain this prophecy God has not chosen any other city on thoroughly in my booklet Jerusalem in Earth, but He has chosen Jerusalem, for Prophecy (request a free copy). a very special purpose. Before that event takes place, Solomon’s father, King David, was a however, there is a more immediate man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). prophecy we must watch to be fulfilled Scripture prophesies that he will rule in Jerusalem. It was recorded by the over the 12 tribes of Israel in the World Prophet Zechariah: Tomorrow. This important man was “Behold, the day of the Lord cometh, passionate about Jerusalem, as God is and thy spoil shall be divided in the Christ’s prophecy also shows how today. To understand prophecy and to midst of thee. For I will gather all events in Jerusalem will signal His become perfect like God the Father, we nations against Jerusalem to battle; return. The chaos in that city prophe- need the same passion for Jerusalem and the city shall be taken, and the sied by Zechariah will get the attention that David had. houses rifled, and the women ravished; of a foreign power, and it will come to and half of the city shall go forth the rescue. Who is that foreign power? Compassed With Armies into captivity, and the residue of the Look at Luke’s account of this proph- Look at some of the Bible’s prophecies people shall not be cut off from the city” ecy: “And when ye shall see Jerusalem about what will happen in Jerusalem in (Zechariah 14:1-2). compassed with armies, then know our day. Half of Jerusalem will soon fall! that the desolation thereof is nigh. The most important of these was Think about the intractable problem Then let them which are in Judaea flee spoken by Jesus Christ Himself. When in this city. The Arabs already inhabit to the mountains; and let them which His disciples asked Him for the signs the eastern half. Your Bible says it is are in the midst of it depart out; and let that would precede His Second Coming, only a matter of time before they forc- not them that are in the countries enter Christ spoke of a nightmarish period of ibly seize control! I believe the United thereinto” (Luke 21:20-21). war that would close this age of man: Nations Security Council resolution Other prophecies explain that this “For then shall be great tribulation, that the Obama administration shame- is, in fact, European armies led by Ger- such as was not since the beginning fully enabled to be passed in December many. They show that these armies will of the world to this time, no, nor ever makes this more likely. (See a map of surround Jerusalem after they have shall be. And except those days should how this decision affects Jerusalem on conquered radical Islam led by Iran! “Jerusalem compassed with armies” God has not chosen any other city on Earth, but He is the biggest sign God gives us that it is has chosen Jerusalem, for a very special purpose. time to flee—or be destroyed! Yes, God gave these prophecies as a be shortened, there should no flesh page 18 of this issue.) warning to us. We need to understand be saved: but for the elect’s sake those Here is what I wrote in Jerusalem in them—so we can act on them! days shall be shortened” (Matthew Prophecy about this prophecy in Zecha- Christ continued in Luke 21: “And 24:21-22). Think about what He said! At riah: “Consider it: The Day of the Lord take heed to yourselves, lest at any what time in human history has it been and the dispute over one half of time your hearts be overcharged with possible to exterminate every person Jerusalem are presented in the same surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares on Earth? Only recently have scientists context. That is because when half of this life, and so that day come upon created a weapon that could cause such of Jerusalem goes into captivity, that you unawares. For as a snare shall it devastation. The number one problem crisis triggers a series of events come on all them that dwell on the face facing this world is human survival! that leads to the return of Jesus of the whole earth. Watch ye there- This is a prophecy for right now. Christ! One half of Jerusalem being fore, and pray always, that ye may be And in this context, Christ referred taken captive is like the first domino accounted worthy to escape all these heritage to Jerusalem specifically: “When ye to fall, leading to Christ’s return and things that shall come to pass, and to therefore shall see the abomination battle against all nations in Jerusalem! stand before the Son of man” (verses

images of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the It all begins and ends in Jerusalem. 34-36). Watch Jerusalem, and watch / prophet, stand in the holy place, “In other words, the current dis- yourself. Make sure you don’t let down getty (whoso readeth, let him understand:)” pute over East Jerusalem is a strong spiritually—time is too short. Hear

images (verse 15). The holy place described here sign that the Day of the Lord is God’s instructions and apply them in is Jerusalem. almost here!” your life! 16 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET CITY OF WAR watch Various artists depict JERUSALEM the multiple battles for Jerusalem over the centuries.

understand just how important this city is to God. He chose it not just as the capital city for Israel under Kings David and Solomon, but as His capital city during the millennial reign of Jesus Christ, the King of kings! “And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the moun- tain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem” (Isaiah 2:3). The word of God will go forth from Jerusalem and cover the Earth! All people will learn God’s way The Bible contains many more details and live according to His law. about the shocking chain of events that At long last, Jerusalem will be the city leads to Christ’s return, but the main of peace that its name represents. takeaway is that Jerusalem is at the “Rejoice ye with Jerusalem, and be glad images

heart of it all. with her, all ye that love her: rejoice for joy with her, all ye that mourn for her …. getty / New Jerusalem As one whom his mother comforteth, so orti It is exciting and comforting to know will I comfort you; and ye shall be com- dagli forted in Jerusalem” (Isaiah 66:10, 13). a when Christ will return. But amazingly, / this is only a physical reason to watch What a contrast to the unfathomable dea , Jerusalem. There is an even more bloodshed just ahead! (Joel 3:13; Revela- images

important, spiritual reason. tion 14:19-20). No city has suffered more In the book of Psalms are canonized than Jerusalem. No city will rejoice getty / these words: “If I forget thee, O Jerusa- more than Jerusalem! God will stop all lem, let my right hand forget her cun- the violence and misery. He will heal all

nimatallah ning. If I do not remember thee, let my scars and wipe away all tears. g / tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; Those of us who do His Work today foundations, whose builder and maker dea , if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief will share His throne forever as the is God” (Hebrews 11:10). The book of joy” (Psalm 137:5-6). Bride of Jesus Christ, living in Jerusa- Revelation shows that God the Father images

Notice another prophecy in Zecha- lem (Revelation 19:7). will bring this city down to Earth and getty / riah: “Cry yet, saying, Thus saith the Beyond that, this city that God has establish His throne among us! Lord of hosts; My cities through prosper- chosen will become the headquarters Keep your eyes on Jerusalem! God archive ity shall yet be spread abroad; and the of the universe! God will dwell there for has chosen this city. He instructs us to Lord shall yet comfort Zion, and shall all eternity (Revelation 21:2-3). follow His example—to become perfect picture yet choose Jerusalem” (Zechariah 1:17). The great patriarch Abraham had even as He is (Matthew 5:48). To become When you put all the prophecies his mind locked in on new Jerusalem. perfect like Him, we must make it a historical of the Bible together, you come to “For he looked for a city which hath priority to do the same! n MARCH 2017 17 watch ‘HALF OF THE CITY SHALL JERUSALEM GO FORTH INTO CAPTIVITY’

On Dec. 23, 2016, the United States broke with its traditional role as Israel’s protector at the United Nations Security Council by choosing not to veto a resolution that calls Israeli communities in the West Bank illegal and invalid. Resolution 2334 attacks Israel’s control of and sovereignty over not just the territory of the West Bank, but over Jerusalem itself. It condemns all Jewish settlers in territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, as illegal trespassers. It lays the legal groundwork for the Palestinians to forcibly take what the UN has said already belongs to them. For two decades, Trumpet editor in chief Gerald Flurry has forecast that half of Jerusalem will fall into Palestinian hands. As it is written in Zechariah 14:2, “For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city.”

TERRITORY DECLARED PALESTINIAN MUNICIPAL JERUSALEM BORDER NEVE YA’AKOV 21,300 BY UN RESOLUTION 2334 JUNE 4, 1967 ISRAEL-JORDAN BORDER

ISRAELI SETTLEMENTS OLD CITY WALLS NUMBER OF JEWISH RESIDENTS

PISGAT ZE'EV 40,700

RAMOT ALON 44,100

RAMOT SHLOMO 15,100

MUNICIPAL JUNE 4, 1967 JERUSALEM ISRAEL-JORDAN BORDER BORDER UN RESOLUTION 2334 LINE

OLD CITY WEST EAST JERUSALEM JERUSALEM

OTHER 16,800

EAST TALPIYOT 14,000

GILO 30,300 WEST BANK

HAR HOMA 18,900

301,600 MUSLIM ARABS

319,500 201,200 WEST BANK ETHNIC JEWS ETHNIC JEWS

2,000 MAIN MUSLIM ARABS MAP JERUSALEM WEST BANK AREA DEMOGRAPHICS DEMOGRAPHICS (INCLUDING EAST JERUSALEM) While 61 percent of Jerusalem’s Jewish 2,697,687 587,100 population lives within the ETHNIC ARABS ETHNIC JEWS borders of pre-1967 Jerusalem, The ethnic Jews residing in 39 percent of Jerusalem’s the West Bank are considered Jews live in East Jerusalem. trespassers by the UN. UN-DECLARED ISRAELI PALESTINIAN SETTLEMENTS TERRITORY WEST JERUSALEM EAST JERUSALEM The Cryptic Nationalist Group Steering Japan

Will the Nippon Kaigi group steer seems to attract little attention, espe- After Japan’s defeat in 1945, the U.S.- Japan into a repetition of World cially outside of Japan. led Allied Occupation sought to root out War II-era nationalism? Prime Minister Shinzō Abe is a mem- the Japanese radicalism that had caused by jeremiah jacques ber of the Nippon Kaigi (“Japan Con- so much suffering throughout East ference”), a somewhat secretive group Asia. The Allies abolished State Shinto, determined to normalize the Japanese forced Hirohito to publicly renounce the hat if Germany elected a military, teach history in a way that idea that he was a god, and wrote a new leader who was part of a cultivates patriotism in young students, constitution for Japan, saying its people W radical nationalist group that and restore the imperial family as the “forever renounce war as a sovereign believed Germany should no longer center of Japanese life. Ten of Mr. Abe’s right” and that they also renounce “the acknowledge that it committed war 19 cabinet members also belong to this threat or use of force as a means of set- crimes during World War ii? What shadowy organization. tling international disputes.” if that group said historic accounts After Tokyo’s defeat, most Japanese of Germany massacring Jews and Resentment Born in Defeat accepted the outcome and embraced other groups were “either exaggerated Shintoism is the ancient animist the postwar realities, which included or fabricated”? What if that group religion native to Japan. Leading up to a prolonged period of extremely rapid believed Germany should, in fact, be and during World War ii, State Shinto, economic growth and a surge in the gen- applauded for “liberating” Poland, the intertwined with nationalism and mil- eral quality of life in Japan. Most Japa- Netherlands, Belgium, France and itarism, was Imperial Japan’s national nese were grateful to the American-led other nations during the war? religion. State Shinto promoted an ide- occupation for bringing prosperity, What if the stated goal of the organi- ology of Japanese racial superiority and stability and democracy to the nation. zation was to return modern Germany the notion that Emperor Hirohito was But not everyone was remorseful to its World War ii-era “glory”? a divinity, destined to rule the entire about Japan’s wartime behavior. Not And what if this German leader world. The fanaticism of Imperial everyone was willing to accept the successfully stacked his cabinet with Japan’s soldiers—and civilians—was war’s outcome, including the Allied gary members of that same organization? driven largely by these religious beliefs. Occupation. In the early 1970s, some dorning This is essentially the actual situation The toxicity of this faith rendered who were resentful of Japan’s defeat /

in Japan today. Yet the fact that more many Japanese incapable of surren- formed a State Shinto revival group trumpet than half of Japan’s top leaders hold dering—even when offered the chance called Nihon wo Mamoru Kai. They these beliefs regarding their country while facing insurmountable odds. championed the trashing of Japan’s 20 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET is in part because some of the group’s Sugano’s book shows that Nippon members are descendants of those Kaigi’s main accomplishment has been who instigated the war. Many, Setsu uniting various nationalist organiza- says, openly long for the days of Japan’s tions within a like-minded program. great-power status. “Throughout 40 years of history,” he said, This is the group influencing the “it has been sending almost the same most powerful people in Japan. message and focusing on the same pri- Today, Nippon Kaigi has only around ority: educating the young generation.” 38,000 full members. Yet it wields influ- On January 6, in a rare and telling ence far beyond its membership rolls move, a Tokyo court ordered the book’s because its network reaches deeply into publisher to suspend all publication of the various echelons of government. A Study on the Japan Conference on the Besides Prime Minister Abe, many grounds that it contained defamatory other government officials also belong information. The Japan Times noted on to Nippon Kaigi, including Mr. Abe’s January 7, “It is rare for a court to sus- deputy prime minister; his state pend publication of a bestseller in Japan.” ministers of defense, foreign affairs, Opponents of Nippon Kaigi say the education, health, reconstruction, and court’s decision fits with the idea that his chief cabinet secretary; and 289 of the group wields considerable influ- the 480 members of the Diet, Japan’s ence to suppress those who seek to parliament. Other Nippon Kaigi mem- expose that very influence. bers include numerous state and local lawmakers, renowned academics and Nippon Kaigi’s Accomplishments authors, media moguls, leading Shinto The Economist said Nippon Kaigi has priests, titans of industry, high-rank- proved itself to have “a formidable abil- The Cryptic Nationalist Group Steering Japan ing diplomats and military officers, ity to mobilize.” A major example of this the great-grandson of Emperor Meiji came in 2006 when the group collected and former Prime Minister Tarō Asō. 3.6 million signatures demanding judi- pacifist constitution and a return to Even a famous former sumo wrestler cial reforms that would legally require nationalism and emperor worship. is among the group’s ranks. Former schools to teach patriotism to students. In 1997, this group merged with a Defense Minister Yuriko Koike, who The signatures were enough to pass the similar nationalist organization called became governor of Tokyo in July, is controversial legislation, which helped Nihono Mamoru Kokumin Kaigi. The another highly influential member. to ban “left wing” curricula and to two became Nippon Kaigi. The former head of Nippon Kaigi was reinstate the traditions of standing for The United States Congressional the former chief justice of the Supreme Japan’s Hinomaru flag and singing the Research Service concluded in a recent Court of Japan. national anthem. report that Nippon Kaigi believes that “Enacting a law with this requirement “Tokyo War Crimes tribunals were ille- Why So Little Coverage? was one of the few things that Mr. Abe gitimate,” that the Massacre of Nanking For decades, Nippon Kaigi received accomplished in his first, inglorious was either “exaggerated or fabricated,” little attention in Japan’s mainstream term as prime minister from 2006 to and that “Japan should be applauded media, and even less outside of the 2007,” the Economist said. for liberating much of East Asia” during World War ii. With Japan’s economic and industrial The Economist listed the following as Nippon Kaigi’s primary goals: excellence, all it lacks to transform its “[A]pplaud Japan’s wartime ‘liber- defense forces into a nuclear-armed world- ation’ of East Asia from Western colonialism; rebuild the armed forces; class military is will. Nippon Kaigi members inculcate patriotism among students have that missing element in abundance. brainwashed by left-wing teachers; and revere the emperor as he was wor- country. That changed in spring of last Around the same time, Nippon Kaigi shiped in the good old days before the year when researcher Tamotsu Sugano played a vital role in convincing the war” (June 6, 2015). published an exposé called Nippon government to restore April 29, the Kobayashi Setsu, a former member Kaigi No Kenkyu (A Study on the Japan birthday of wartime Emperor Hirohito, of the group and one of Japan’s top Conference). The book sold more than as an official national holiday. constitutional scholars, said Nippon 153,000 copies, making it a surprise Sugano says it is clear that without Kaigi members “have trouble accepting bestseller and bringing Nippon Kaigi’s Nippon Kaigi, Mr. Abe would not have the reality that Japan lost the war.” This vast influence out of the shadows. been successful in returning to politics MARCH 2017 21 after his resignation in 2007 convinced its defense forces into a nuclear-armed National Review columnist Josh many that his political career was world-class military is will. Nippon Gelernter said July 16, 2016, that “it finished. But with the group’s guidance Kaigi members have that missing ele- would probably be a good idea [for and backing, Mr. Abe returned in 2012 ment in abundance. America] … not to stand idly by while and has gone on to win another two our most important Asian ally, and the consecutive national elections. What Lies Ahead? second-richest democracy in the world, Writing for the Daily Beast on July The Economist noted that Nippon Kai- reverts to fascism.” 9, 2016, Jake Adelstein and Mari gi’s opponents have been impressed by Nippon Kaigi’s “strength is growing,” Yamamoto said Nippon Kaigi was also the success that the group and its affili- said Norihiro Kato, professor emeritus instrumental in “getting the Japanese ates have had in “quietly transform[ing] of Waseda University. “And there is no government to reinstitute the Imperial the landscape of Japanese politics” (op telling when its members might start Calendar, which was banished by the cit). Yet Nippon Kaigi members them- saying what really is on their mind: U.S. occupation government.” That selves “are frustrated over what they ‘Take Back Japan From America’” (New change means that while it is 2017 in the see as the slow pace of change,” it wrote York Times, Sept. 12, 2014). Western world, in Japan, it is year 29 of That pace, however, could soon pick the Heisei Period. Adelstein and Yama- up. As of July 2016, Mr. Abe, his Liberal A Prophesied Resurgence moto wrote, “The system is so confusing Democratic Party and its coalition part- In 1971, when even Nippon Kaigi’s fore- that many reporters in Japan carry a ners have a two-thirds majority in both runner groups were little more than handy chart to translate the Imperial houses of the Diet. This unprecedented whispers among closet nationalists, Calendar dates into Western time.” double supermajority makes Mr. Abe educator Herbert W. Armstrong pre- Perhaps the most compelling evi- the most powerful Japanese prime dicted that Japan would awake from its dence of Nippon Kaigi’s power came minister in postwar history. postwar slumber, cast off the pacifism in the summer of 2015, when the Diet Some analysts have argued that the U.S. imposed on it, and return to held heated debates about whether the since Nippon Kaigi’s membership is formidable militarism. “Japan today country should have a right to collective comprised overwhelmingly of older has no military establishment,” he self-defense. Sugano says the crucial individuals, it will soon die out and wrote. “But we should not lose sight of factor in delivering victory to those doesn’t need to be feared. But the age the fact that Japan has become so pow- arguing to restore that military capabil- factor could infuse Mr. Abe and other erful economically that it could build a ity was the testimony of three leading members with greater urgency to military force of very great power very constitutional scholars. All three were return Japan to its war-era “glory.” rapidly” (Plain Truth, March 1971). Nippon Kaigi members or affiliates. “I don’t think many people have Mr. Armstrong’s view was informed This victory equated to a milestone grasped yet what is happening in Japan,” by Bible prophecy. He understood that “reinterpretation” of the Constitution said Tawara Yoshifumi, head of the non- Japan would be a key part of a massive that expanded Japan’s military role profit group Children and Textbooks end-time Asian military power bloc abroad. Some 14 months later, in a clear Japan Network 21. “The situation is very that the Bible calls “the kings of the indication that history is on the march, dangerous.” Tessa Suzuki, a professor of east” (Revelation 16:12). Ezekiel 38:6 Japan’s first armed soldiers since the modern Japanese history at Australian specifies that “Gomer” and “Togarmah” end of World War ii deployed overseas. National University, agrees. She told the will be part of this power bloc. These With Japan’s economic and indus- Japan Times she is “enormously con- are ancient names for the main peoples trial excellence, all it lacks to transform cerned about the way Japan is going.” that make up modern Japan. For decades, Mr. Armstrong’s fore- cast could have seemed alarmist to Japan forged a powerful empire in the middle of many Japanese and students of geopoli- IS JAPAN the 20th century. Today the industriousness of tics. But now, in part because of the rise ABOUT TO the Japanese has again built their island nation of Nippon Kaigi, that forecast no longer PROJECT with few natural resources into the world’s third- appears far-fetched. Today, as we face largest economy. But will Japan build a military to the prospect of nation- ITS POWER match? Herbert W. Armstrong foresaw Japan’s alists and hard-liners ONCE resurgence almost 50 years ago. Read what dismantling Japan’s AGAIN? he wrote in your free copy of He Was Right. pacifist architecture and leading a revival of the nationalism, mil- itarism and emperor

worship that made istock

Japan an unusu- . com ally ruthless / ngkaki military machine. n 22 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET ucretius wrote, “What is food engineered to create their own internal to one is to others bitter poison.” pesticide, Bt toxin (Bacillus thuringien- L Nowhere is this Roman philoso- sis), which breaks open the stomach of pher’s observation more apparent than certain insects and kills them. with the steep rise in food allergies over This marks the first time in history the last two decades. In years past, that pesticide toxins inside cell walls some few suffered an allergy to one are being sold for human consump- type of food. Today, it is common to tion. It also raises the possibility that see people suffering from allergies eating produce containing Bt might to three or more foods. The scary damage the human digestive tract part is that no one is certain of the the same way it does to insects. cause or how to stop the problem. A 2011 study at Quebec’s Sher- The allergic condition plagues a brooke University Hospital showed person with anxiety, food phobia and correlation, finding the Bt toxin in constant fear of reactions, sometimes the blood of pregnant women and their up to and including death. allergies: unborn babies. And in 2012, The Jour- Why did generations before us not nal of Applied Toxicology showed the Bt suffer from this epidemic? What is it When Food toxin causes leaky gut, something Bt’s that’s making us so allergic? aggressive mechanism was designed to Attacks do to insects in a ruthless way. What Causes Food Allergies? by jorg mardian O’Brien writes that since the intro- Food allergies have become the fifth duction of genetically modified foods, leading chronic illness in the U.S., tomato, we have now reached a critical hospitalization rates due to food aller- affecting up to 15 million people, juncture with genetically modified gies have risen 265 percent. This has according to the U.S. Census Bureau. foods. They have been shoved onto the concerned scientists, including some in The most common triggers are eggs, public without meaningful debate, with- the Food and Drug Administration, who cow’s milk, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, out long-term animal feeding studies or have warned that genetically altering a sesame, soy, fish and wheat. government tests, and without labels. food plant could trigger food allergies. A seemingly innocuous meal can be The Grocery Manufacturers Associa- In 2009, the American Academy of Envi- a loaded weapon. When the allergy suf- tion says between 70 and 80 percent of ronmental Medicine stated, “[S]everal ferer ingests a trigger food, the immune all processed foods may contain ingre- animal studies indicate serious health system produces immunoglobulin E dients from genetically engineered risks associated with GM food con- antibodies in order to neutralize what plants. So most Americans are eating sumption, including infertility, immune it determines to be a danger. The body genetically modified organisms with dysregulation, accelerated aging, releases chemicals such as histamine almost every bite. dysregulation of genes associated with into the bloodstream, triggering an The genetically engineered hormone … insulin regulation … and changes in exaggerated external response and rbgh (recombinant bovine growth hor- [major organs] and gastrointestinal sys- sometimes a deadly internal response mone), used to increase milk produc- tem. There is more than a casual asso- of swelling, known as anaphylaxis. tion, causes cows to have higher rates of ciation between GM foods and adverse The big mystery is why we get aller- disease, requiring the use of antibiotics health effects. There is causation ….” gies. Theories abound. The hygiene for ill effects. Consuming products What can you do if you suffer from hypothesis says rising rates of allergies from these cows is a major factor pre- food allergies? Look for a nutritional mirror our declining exposure to bacte- cipitating leaky gut, a condition where a program that focuses on removing ria during childhood, making us prone person’s intestines have increased per- damaging foods and replacing them to reacting to substances that would meability. This allows toxins, microbes with healthy alternatives, giving the otherwise be harmless. Some also point and undigested food particles to leak intestinal lining a chance to heal and a finger at increased rates of vaccina- into the bloodstream, causing food seal. One such program is the gaps tions, the use of carcinogenic agricul- allergies and many illnesses. nutritional program by Dr. Natasha tural chemicals and even genetics. Campbell-McBride. Surprisingly, an often-overlooked Consuming Pesticides For prevention, eat a wholesome diet cause of food allergies is food itself. In Another common ingredient in based on unprocessed, ideally organic The Unhealthy Truth, Robyn O’Brien processed foods is soy, a top food or locally grown foods cooked at home. writes that food allergies and intoler- allergen genetically engineered to These form the foundation upon which ances may be a product of toxins and withstand massive doses of weed your immune system can function and trumpet / genetically modified ingredients in the killer. Corn allergies are also rising, thrive without allowing allergies to industrial food system. with some genetically modified corn become a lifelong disability. n goddard Beginning in 1994 with the intro- engineered to withstand Monsanto’s Jorg Mardian is a registered holistic

julia duction of the first genetically altered herbicide Roundup. Other varieties are nutritionist. MARCH 2017 23 INCREASE YOUR BIBLE IQ God’s View on Making and Managing Money Is wealth sinful? Is poverty virtuous? What does the Bible say?

The Philadelphia ome people choose to be poor. They Money Tips Trumpet, in believe poverty is admirable or even righ- Now that we have established that God is in favor of conjunction with Steous. They live ultrasimple lives, or even wealth, let’s look at some money tips from the Bible. the Herbert banish themselves to a bare-bones existence in a 1. How important is hard work in making W. Armstrong religious house or monastery, thinking that this money? What will laziness and a love of pleasures College Bible makes them closer to God. lead to, monetarily? Proverbs 21:17; 23:21; 24:30-34. Correspondence Is money—even wealth—bad? What does the 2. Besides diligence and hard work, what lesson Course, presents Bible say about money? Everyone needs it, but can we learn from the ant? Proverbs 6:6-8; 30:24-25. this brief excursion there are right and wrong ways to use it. How While food is plenteous, ants store enough to into the fascinating much is too little? How much is too much? last them through the colder months. This teaches study of the Bible. The Bible is a vault of wisdom about money. It us not only to save for the future and to set money Simply turn to and contains very practical instruction. So let’s dive in aside for emergencies, but also the principle of read in your Bible and study it. Open your Bible and read each scrip- budgeting, allocating money for specific purposes each verse given ture that answers each question. This will help you to cover all your expenses, from food and housing to in answer to the learn and remember the principles we cover. entertainment. This practice keeps you in control of questions. You will your money and is invaluable in managing a house- be amazed at the God Wants You to Prosper! hold. The sooner you develop this habit the better! new understanding 1. Who owns everything on Earth? Deuteronomy 3. How can your choices today help you prepare gained from this 10:14; Psalm 24:1; Haggai 2:8. for a financially stable future? Proverbs 24:27; short study! God created everything and therefore owns verses 3-4. everything. Some say God is against riches. But Verse 27 in the Moffatt translation reads, “First how could He be? He Himself is a multitrillionaire! work your farm, and till the soil—then marry and 2. Does God hoard His wealth? Does God desire set up house.” There is much to be said for getting for you to prosper? John 10:10, last part; 3 John 2; established with a good job and saving some Ecclesiastes 5:19. money before taking on the responsibilities of a God gives of all He has made. That is His way. family. Some people marry too young and end up In fact, He created all things for the purpose of struggling financially—and otherwise—for years. sharing them! God wants us to enjoy the wealth of 4. Will generously sharing your wealth—with blessings His creation offers. God and others—actually increase your wealth? 3. What are some of the blessings God promises Luke 6:38; Proverbs 11:24-25. to those who live righteously? Psalm 1:1-3; 112:1-3; The Revised Standard Version renders Proverbs 84:11-12; 37:3-4. 11:24, “One man gives freely, yet grows all the 4. Since God owns everything, and all you richer; another withholds what he should give, and have comes from Him, what does He expect only suffers want.” It is smart to save money and from you? Proverbs 3:9-10; Malachi 3:10. If you spend wisely, but don’t become stingy. Give gener- obey God in this respect, will He bless you even ously, as you are able, and you will have more in the more? Same verses. long run. Selfishly hoarding each dollar may seem The firstfruits, or tithe, is the first 10 percent of to make you richer, but in fact God’s way of give your income. God wants you to show your appre- leads to greater blessings. Read Luke 12:15-21 of the ciation and respect for Him by giving that portion man who used his great wealth for selfish purposes. back to Him before you take anything else out of 5. Is it important to leave an inheritance for your your paycheck. The governments of this world children when you die? Proverbs 13:22. demand 25 or 50 percent or more, God commands This too follows God’s way of give. Occasionally that we pay only 10 percent. We don’t give this to you hear older people say, “We’re spending our kids’ God directly, but to His representative on Earth. inheritance!” as they indulge in purchasing some When we do, we will find that the remainder of our luxury. That often lighthearted sentiment actually money stretches even further! reveals a selfish, nonbiblical attitude toward 24 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET money. God says to keep your children and even your future grandchildren in your financial plans!

Pitfalls of Wealth—and the Solution Let’s now look at some of the common problems that money can cause—and get the Bible’s solution. 1. What dangers await the person who lusts after money? 1 Timothy 6:9-10. What does God suggest to the person who has great wealth? Verses 17-19. NEVER ALLOW MONEY TROUBLES TO OVERWHELM Greed drives people to do terrible, unethical YOUR THINKING. TRUST GOD TO PROVIDE. things. Verse 10 should read “a root” (money is not the cause of every evil, but it is one cause for all What should our overall attitude be toward provid- sorts of evil). As we will see from other scriptures, ing for our physical needs? Matthew 6:25-32. God wants to ensure that physical riches are used Never allow money troubles to overwhelm your correctly and never become more important than thinking. Trust God to provide. spiritual riches. 8. What should our main goal in life be? Verse 33. 2. Another mistake is to covet possessions. In The bottom-line solution to many of the pitfalls order to get things they do not have the money of wealth, particularly the covetousness and greed for, many people borrow the money or charge it can arouse within us, is to seek first God’s King- the expense to a credit card. Is that wise? What dom. Always make sure that God’s way of life, His does God say about borrowing, or going into debt? law, His spiritual wealth, is most important in your Proverbs 22:7. life. That way, you can be sure that God will see to Those who lend money, such as credit card com- your other needs. panies, usually charge interest—an extra percent- age of the debt for the “service” they provide. The Final Advice greater your debt, the harder it is to pay for it! Just 1. Should you be content with your physical state as ask someone who is trying to get out of debt—it it is? Philippians 4:11-12, 19; 1 Timothy 6:6-8. enslaves you! Here is a secret of happiness. Most people, at all 3. What about get-rich-quick schemes, promis- levels of income, believe they would be happier if ing instant wealth for little labor? Proverbs 28:20, they only had a little more money. There is nothing 22; 13:11. wrong with trying to improve your station in life, Always be on guard against this classic appeal to but learn to enjoy just what you have. Proverbs greed and laziness! To avoid this trap, always be 30:7-9 show great wisdom: It is a request that God willing to work for your living (Proverbs 28:19). provide an income exactly right for the person—so 4. Should money be your main reason for work- that he can avoid the pitfalls of being either too ing? Proverbs 23:4-5. What effect can preoccupation poor or too rich. with money have on a family? Proverbs 15:27. What 2. How can you tell if the blessings you receive does the Bible say to those who believe money will are from God? Proverbs 10:22. solve their problems? Ecclesiastes 5:12-16; Luke 12:15. Worldly wealth can come by unwholesome means. This short study 5. What will ultimately happen to the person who But when God blesses you with riches, whether is a sample of the trusts in his possessions? Proverbs 11:28. Where physical or spiritual, there will be no bad kickbacks method employed should your heart be instead? Matthew 6:19-21, 24. or side effects. You will be able to fully enjoy them! in each lesson of It is easy to become materialistic, preoccupied 3. How important are your money-management the free Herbert with money and things, because as a human being, skills to God? Luke 16:10-11. W. Armstrong you are material—made of flesh and blood. But Read the whole parable, beginning in verse 1. College Bible God cautions against putting physical riches To be trusted with more exciting, grander assign- Correspondence above spiritual riches. Read the story in Matthew ments in the future, you must prove trustworthy Course. Over 19:16-26 of the man who turned away from Christ in the smaller things today. How do you treat the 100,000 people because he wasn’t willing to give up his “great blessings God gives you? Proper money manage- have enrolled in this possessions.” You must be willing, if necessary, to ment develops and demonstrates the qualities of exciting, dynamic give up anything to follow God! Being unwilling to character that God will need in His Kingdom. Care course. Ordering do this amounts to idolatry, which is breaking the for your money and possessions—and keep them information is on the First Commandment (Exodus 20:3). in perspective—and the riches God will ultimately back cover of this 6. What are some biblical examples of things give you will stagger your imagination! n magazine.

nonwarit that are more important than physical wealth? / Proverbs 16:16; 22:1; 15:16; Psalm 119:72. com . You can read previous articles in this 7. We all need money to live, but money issues series online at trmpt.co/bibleiq. istock can tend to take up too much of our thinking. MARCH 2017 25 u GERMANY FROM PAGE 9 President Vladimir Putin without a Russia could take advantage of matter. But how do you come up with “boogeyman.” If the U.S. president is Trump’s favor to try to divide and rule a common answer for a bloc with such no longer the source of all evil in the Europe—while Trump himself is doing a disparate range of views? At one end, world, then who else could Putin blame the same thing. you have Estonia, where all young men and attack? “[G]uess who qualifies best Under all this strain, Germany would are conscripted into the armed forces as a new, well, boogeywoman?” Bittner have to assert itself aggressively against and one in 20 of its working-age adults asked. “Angela Merkel” (January 1). both powers at once—and hold Europe serves in the military or volunteer “The German chancellor is a perfect together at the same time. for its national guard. Fear of Russia target,” he continued. “Germany is has led to the nation approaching the holding general elections next autumn, ‘Brutal Pursuit of Self-Interest’ Israeli model in terms of the level of its and with politicians sympathetic to Thinkers around the world see this citizens’ participation in the military. Moscow on the rise, she may well be change in Europe coming. “Brexit, a Yet in the same bloc you have nations running for her fourth term as the sole shock all around, will combine with a like Austria and Italy that are chaffing European leader willing to stand up to a Trump presidency to force the EU to against sanctions on Russia. newly assertive Russia.” put away childish things, and ask hard Once, America provided the leader- During Obama’s administration, questions of itself,” wrote John Lloyd ship necessary to keep such a group Merkel worked hard to keep Europe in an article published by Reuters. on the same page. Now someone must united in its sanctions on Russia. If “Infancy may be ending: always a hard replace that leadership. Someone Trump reverses those sanctions and transition” (January 13). must fight back against Mr. Trump’s Germany doesn’t, Merkel would be left as Yes, that transition will be hard, but attempts to break up the EU. Because the most prominent Russian opponent in over the next few months the world if nobody does, the euro, the EU and the world—and subject to the full force is going to see Germany and Europe Germany’s prosperity will fall apart. of Putin’s ire and geopolitical genius. grow up. So Germany faces mounting pres- sure from all sides and can no longer rely on the United States—and even Germany is being sees America as an enemy. The result? forced into a more The nation must stand up for itself. If America follows a narrowly defined “brutal pursuit “America first” policy, then Germany of self-interest.” has no choice but to respond with a —George Friedman “Germany first” policy. Germany has not had to do this for 70 years. As George Friedman writes in his book Flashpoints, after World War ii, Germany and Japan “tried to become economic giants without becoming Pressure From Russia That’s not something she is used to. militarily powerful. Both exercise less Meanwhile, Germany could also face A Russia with American support international power than they could.” peril from Russia. Mr. Trump promises would be powerful. “If Trump sticks “German intentions are to have an a revolution in relations with Moscow. with his positions, it is the chancellor’s economic policy without political, and Almost every U.S. president since view that Europe could be facing a great certainly without military, conse- the 1990s has started out promising threat,” wrote Spiegel Online (op cit). quences,” he writes. “They intend to be closer ties with Russia, only to be Elmar Brok, a member of the Foreign the dominant power in Europe without disillusioned. But this time, Russia Affairs Committee in the EU Parlia- imposing their will on anyone. Their seems interested in playing along, at ment, warned that Putin might use the intention is to exercise only one ele- least for a time. Also, Mr. Trump’s opportunity to grab one of the Baltic ment of national power, the economic, unique rejection of America’s long-term states: “Trump’s messages about nato and to exercise that without the brutal interests could lead him to tolerate a could lead to a situation in which Putin pursuit of self-interest. … This is an Russian expansion that all former U.S. says to himself, ‘Let’s give it a shot!’” understandable impulse. It is not clear presidents opposed. Paul D. Millar, assistant professor that it is practical.” Now Europe must confront this of international security studies There have certainly been leaders threat—alone. at the National Defense University, who wanted a more forceful Germany. For Germany, the situation could get wrote in Foreign Policy, “Putin now But Friedman gives a good description

worse. Jochen Bittner, an editor at the has the most favorable international of the worldview of chancellors such as getty German weekly newspaper Die Zeit, environment since the end of the Cold Angela Merkel.

images wrote in the New York Times that the War to continue Russian expansion” As Friedman notes, Germany is being election of Mr. Trump leaves Russian (November 16). forced into a more “brutal pursuit of 26 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET self-interest” by the euro crisis. It has not aggressively pursue their own time that it steps back from the world. to impose its will on southern Europe, interests in the next few years, they This sets the stage perfectly for Ger- or it will face major political and eco- will face calamity. They will not let many to reemerge as a major power. nomic crises. Now, the paradigm shift that happen. We will soon see a new This is exactly what the Trumpet has in America’s worldview adds another Germany, one that is willing to push forecast for years. great pressure. other nations around. These forecasts are rapidly becoming For the last 70 years, Europe has reality. In January 1963, Herbert W. lived in a bubble, with the pressures Returning to Its History Armstrong, editor in chief of the Plain of global politics held off by the United Europe is peaceful now. History shows Truth, the Trumpet’s predecessor, States. With America’s retreat, reality this is abnormal. This peace has existed wrote, “A united Europe—the astound- is setting in—a reality where, as one of only because America lifted the imme- ing resurrection of the ‘Holy Roman the first thinkers on international rela- diate need for European nations to be Empire’—a giant new world power equal tions, Thucydides, put it, “the strong do strong and stand up for themselves. to Russia or the United States—perhaps what they can and the weak suffer what With that gone, Europe will return to even stronger. It will then hold the bal- they must.” its historical character. ance of power between East and West.” Germany will be forced to become President Trump is pushing an It’s easy to see how President strong in a host of ways. isolationist policy—one that is opposed Trump’s foreign policy will lead to the It must become strong in its response to the EU, but, outside of trade, not rise of this new power in Europe—a to Russia. It must muster the strength directly anti-German. He probably does power that, as Mr. Armstrong proph- to rally Europe around it. It will have to not realize the pressure he is placing esied, does not merely sit in America’s cajole, beg or force France and Italy to on Germany. Germans may believe Mr. shadow, but maintains its own power accept sanction extensions, or do the Trump is an enemy, but there is little base, grows its own resources, and same to the Baltic countries to keep evidence that he himself thinks so. He asserts its own foreign policy. them in line with a rapprochement. The Middle East can no longer be left to America—Europe sees this already. Germany must muscle up its foreign “Putin now has the most policy, or migrant floods and terrorist favorable international attacks will ravage its political system. Germany must preserve and environment since the end strengthen its international trade. of the Cold War to continue This may mean wrestling for leverage with America, meeting strength Russian expansion.” with strength in order to prevent Mr. —Paul D. Millar, National Defense University Trump’s tariffs. Again this will probably mean an aggressive pursuit of its own interest within Europe. It will mean holding at least a core of nations together opposes Germany in important ways, But the rise of this new European while America works to pull them apart. but in other areas, he is all for it. More power really is “the arrival of a new Trumpet columnist Brad Macdonald German military spending? Great! world order” as Spiegel Online put it. wrote after the terrorist attacks in More German troops in the Middle It is a world that few alive today have Germany last December: “Berliners, the East? Wonderful! An EU army? About ever seen—one with an assertive German people and even Europeans in time you defended yourselves! power in Europe, a power that is ready general will increasingly grapple with a America is forcing Germany to to challenge both America choice between who they want to be and return to power politics, at the same and Russia. n who they need to be. They might want to be progressive, open-minded and tol- erant, but the message from Berlin and all the other attacks is that they need to be more cynical, more unforgiving and History is prophecy more confrontational. This, you can be sure, is a trend that will affect us all.” Germans and Europeans face exactly The Holy Roman Empire is not just a relic in history the same choice in foreign policy. The books. Global forces are animating a resurrection luxury they have enjoyed for decades of this ancient power in our day. Understand today’s of being able to forgo the brutal pursuit Europe by studying this fascinating history. Request images

a free copy of The Holy Roman Empire in Prophecy. of self-interest because America took

getty care of that is ending. Now, if they do BIT BY BIT EU nations would become importance of its efforts, noting, A rocket carrying part of the Galileo satellite “vassals” to America. In 2002, a “Space is also of strategic navigation system launches European Commission report importance for Europe. It WORLDWATCH from Kazakhstan in 2005. noted that “Galileo will underpin reinforces Europe’s role as a the common European defense stronger global player and is policy that the member states an asset for its security and have decided to establish.” It defense.” The document states said Europe wanted to put “an that EU space programs will end to a situation of dependence.” consider “additional services” to “If the EU finds it necessary help meet “emerging needs” in to undertake a security mission Europe’s “security and defense.” that the U.S. does not consider Another major project of to be in its interest, it will be Europe’s space program is impotent unless it has the Copernicus. It was originally Europe’s satellite satellite navigation technology touted as a tool to support that is now indispensable,” the “environmental security.” But navigation system report said. “Although designed the EU has tweaked the wording primarily for civilian applica- so its purpose now is to support goes live tions, Galileo will also give the “the environment and security.” EU a military capability.” The European Parliament’s The system now has 18 stated military purposes for the urope’s satellite rely on these systems, and from satellites. It needs 24 to become system include “border moni- navigation system, construction to archaeology fully operational. It will launch toring outside the EU” and “EU E Galileo, went live on and beyond, more uses for the eight more in 2017 and 2018, peacekeeping operations”—in Dec. 15, 2016. The project is a technology are being found. and is scheduled to field a total other words, European military result of the European Union’s But the most crucial use of 30, including six backups. operations. “It’s already abun- effort to become independent for satellite navigation is The EU has emphasized dantly clear that the system of American satellites and is within modern militaries. The that its system is a civilian will also be used for military a step toward it joining the technology is used to track project, unlike the Russian and operations and surveillance United States and Russia as the friendly and enemy forces and American systems. But for all purposes,” said former EU chief only powers to field their own to guide smart munitions to practical purposes, they are scientific adviser Anne Glover. satellite navigation systems. their targets. This is why just the same. Galileo is configured The new policy document The milestone comes as the about every major power is so access can be restricted to promised to “assess further the EU makes the military uses of its working on its own system. European military personnel potential” of Galileo and Coper- space program more public. Independence from America and emergency services only. nicus to “meet EU autonomy and Satellite navigation is far has been at the heart of Europe’s On October 26, the EU security needs.” beyond a simple convenience efforts from the start. In 2001, released its first-ever Watch for Europe to continue for travelers. Automated mining, French President Jacques space-policy document, breaking free of its military agricultural and other vehicles Chirac said that without Galileo, which highlights the military dependence on America. n

France calls for more security, defense, innovation and Minister Joschka Fischer German militarism the retightening of the eurozone.” made a similar call in an article Though he has disagreements published on January 5. Like ermany must become with German Chancellor Angela Fillon, Fischer believes that more powerful Merkel, Fillon agrees Germany “it will fall to its two largest PENDING DEPLOYMENT German soldiers await G militarily, said a and France must form the core and economically strongest their marching orders. top presidential candidate of a tighter EU in which Germany countries, France and Germany, in France. Center-right assumes more responsibility. to bolster Europe’s defense.” its current geopolitical realities politician François Fillon said Such talk has become a He notes how a military only by developing its own

the Christmas market attack common French request. France cooperation once considered capacity to project political and esa / in Berlin and the election is trying to control government impossible is now forging military power. Six decades after getty of Donald Trump show that spending while sustaining major ahead. Fischer concluded: the Treaty of Rome established

images Germany can no longer play the overseas deployments against “The old EU developed into an the European Economic , role of a “pacifist.” Islamic terrorism. One way economic power because it Community, history and current getty Fillon said he wants to “remo- to square that circle is to get was protected beneath the U.S. developments are pushing

images bilize the European Union around Germany’s help with the fighting. security umbrella. But without France and Germany to shape strategic priorities: our collective Former German Foreign this guarantee, it can address Europe’s future once again.” n 28 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET common strategy to support homeland again,” they agreed OVERFLOW Migrants cross the nations in Africa and the Middle that the long-term solution to border from Hungary East so migrants can live the migrant crisis was a united into Austria. peaceably in their own land. In EU response to the turmoil in the December 23 discussion, Africa and the Middle East. Schönborn said, “Sure, in the Last September, Schönborn beginning, I also said, with spoke on the 333rd anniversary [German Chancellor] Angela of the Battle of Vienna, when a Merkel: ‘We can do it!’ And many Habsburg emperor defended the important experts in Austria said, city from an invasion of Ottoman ‘We can do it!’… We then realized Turks. He used the occasion to that there is another dimension, warn about “a third attempt at and we need common European an Islamic conquest of Europe” if plans; we need more help on Europeans don’t return to their the ground. In the meantime, I “Christian heritage.” believe this is clear: We cannot Schönborn and Bünker Austrian cardinal: ‘We can’t accommodate all refugees. We highlighted the need for Europe accommodate all refugees’ must first see that they can find to deal with the problem of and live in their homeland again” radical Islamic terrorism ardinal Christoph “feeling of overcrowding” in (Trumpet translation). before it can solve the migrant Schönborn, archbishop Austrian society. He pointed to Bünker agreed with crisis in a way that will allow Cof Vienna, admitted on the rise of the anti-immigrant Schönborn and added that Germany to maintain a working Austrian television that he was Austrian Freedom Party as terrorism was both a cause relationship with pro-European rethinking his stance on the a sign that the “country is and consequence of the Arab and Turkish regimes migrant crisis. During a discus- worried” and said he is no migrant crisis. across the Middle East. While sion with Protestant Bishop longer convinced that Austria While Schönborn and Bünker this might sound positive, the Michael Bünker, the archbishop should accept all refugees. were vague about what steps Bible makes plain that this said an “unbelievable number” The cardinal stated that Europeans should take to alliance will ultimately wreak of migrants are causing a Europe needs to develop a enable migrants to “live in their staggering devastation. n

Make the Cuban regime normal again? The policy change was “long Fidel Castro’s government, by sought by the Cuban govern- welcoming tens of thousands of n January 12, as with U.S. law and enforcement ment,” the New York Times said. Cubans fleeing repression.” one of his final acts priorities,” President Obama “The move places a finishing “[T]he White House caved O as United States said in a statement. “By taking touch on Mr. Obama’s efforts as to what Castro wants,” said president, Barack Obama this step, we are treating Cuban president to end a half-century Florida’s Rep. Ileana Ros-Leht- ended a decades-old policy that migrants the same way we treat of hostility between the United inen, whose family was forced granted special status to illegal migrants from other countries.” States and Cuba and to establish to flee the Castro regime in immigrants from Cuba seeking On Dec. 17, 2014, when normalized relations and diplo- 1960. “Castro uses refugees residence in the U.S. President Obama as pawns to get Under that policy, enacted in announced the more concessions 1995, Cubans caught at sea while normalization of from Washington” attempting to enter the U.S. were relations between (Washington Post, sent back to Cuba or other coun- the U.S. and Cuba, January 13). tries. Those not caught in transit he ended what he Prof. Carlos Eire were eligible for residency in the called “an outdated said, “Obama has U.S. the moment they set foot on approach that, for SEEKING REFUGE achieved two ends Cuban migrants in images

American soil. This “wet-foot/ decades, has failed here. First, he has Colombia demand dry-foot” policy treated such to advance our inter- entrance into the U.S. completed the utter getty / Cubans less as illegal immigrants ests.” Two years later betrayal of the Cuban afp / and more as refugees fleeing the and one week before the end matic ties with a government people—a legacy move set in brutal regime of the Castros. of his presidency, Mr. Obama American presidents have long motion two years ago. Second, arboleda “Cuban nationals who attempt ended the “wet-foot/dry-foot” sought to isolate and punish” he has burdened [Donald] Trump raul

, to enter the United States immigration policy, saying that (January 12). The Times noted with a no-win situation with the illegally and do not qualify for it had been “put in place more that the “wet-foot/dry-foot” potential to seriously tarnish images humanitarian relief will be than 20 years ago and was policy was “one way in which the or weaken his presidency right

getty subject to removal, consistent designed for a different era.” United States tried to weaken from the start.” n MARCH 2017 29 XI JINPING indication that Xi will try to India overtakes remain China’s leader even UK economy after his second term expires. “Now, as he nears the end of ndia has economically his first five-year term, many surpassed its former colo- party insiders say Mr. Xi is I nizer several years earlier trying to block promotion of a than experts projected it would, potential successor next year, as India has grown rapidly over suggesting he wants to remain the last quarter century and the in office after his second term United Kingdom has suffered Chinese president’s expires in 2022, when he would economic troubles. Forbes be 69 years old” (ibid). wrote on Dec. 16, 2016, that power grab ‘just like One party official said it is India’s gross domestic product apparent that Xi is seeking a was expected to surpass the UK the Putin model’ leadership structure “just like in 2020, but the pound’s value the Putin model,” a reference dropped nearly 20 percent in the to Russian President Vladimir last year. For 2016, the UK’s GDP hinese President Xi overturning a collective-lead- Putin, who has changed the was $2.29 trillion, and India’s Jinping is taking more ership system introduced to nation’s constitution in order to was $2.3 trillion. “Furthermore, C and more power protect against one-man rule prolong his rule. this gap is expected to widen for himself and blocking the after the death of Mao Zedong “Concern is rising among as India grows at 6 to 8 percent promotion of a potential in 1976” (Dec. 26, 2016). China’s elite that the nation is per annum compared to UK’s successor, according to a Xi’s consolidation of shifting toward a rigid form of growth of 1 to 2 percent per Wall Street Journal analysis. power has been underway autocracy,” Page and Lingling annum until 2020, and likely Jeremy Page and Lingling for several years. Now he wrote, quoting a retired senior beyond,” Forbes reported. This Wei wrote, “Mr. Xi has taken apparently is also attempting official as saying, “Mao built the is significant largely because it personal charge of the to block the promotion of a nation. Deng Xiaoping made underscores the shifting power economy, the armed forces potential successor. Page and it rich. We’re now in the Xi era, dynamics between Asia and and most other levers of power, Lingling said this is a worrying which will make it strong.” n Western powers. n

Japan increases North Korea missile its military could reach U.S.? spending again orth Korean leader eventy-five years after Kim Jong-un brought the bombing of Pearl N in 2017 by proclaiming S Harbor, Japan—a that his nation has “reached the nation that constitutionally was final stage in preparations to to “forever renounce war as a test launch” an intercontinental agencia sovereign right”—now boasts ballistic missile. North Korea

a military that might be even has never tested a missile that makro stronger than it was in World could potentially reach the West / War II. And it is set to grow Coast of the United States. Such con / bigger still. a test would violate international getty

Japan’s defense budget for law and, if successful, pose a images 2017 is expected to hit a record The increase is part of a force. Japan has established nuclear threat to America. , high of $44.6 billion. This will five-year plan by the Japanese one of the most sophisticated Pyongyang has repeatedly david mark the fifth year in a row government to increase mili- militaries in the world, thanks defied Washington and the

mareuil that Japan’s defense spending tary spending by 0.8 percent to America bearing the global community in developing

has increased. The budget each year until 2018. Japan is primary burden of defending nuclear and missile capacity. It / anadolu includes plans to develop currently in the top-10 list of the nation. John T. Kuehn, a has conducted test after test in land-to-sea missiles; upgrade the most powerful militaries professor of military history at brash defiance of international

agency Japanese missile destroyers in the world. While its pacifist the U.S. Army Command and law and UN resolutions. / with American-developed constitution imposed after General Staff College, told CNN, Preventing a future test would getty Aegis advanced radar systems; World War II forbids Japan to “Pilot for pilot, ship for ship, be difficult without a preemp-

images and construct a new type of wage offensive war, it has been Japan can stand toe to toe with tive military strike or a missile submarine. free to build up a self-defense anybody” (Dec. 7, 2016). n interception early in the test. n 30 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET Facebook fights ‘fake news’

SOCIETYWATCH acebook announced on Dec. 15, 2016, F that it is taking new measures to curb the spread of what it calls “fake news” on its influential social network. The organization will partner Police with fact-checkers to sort honest news reports from made-up stories that play to under MOURNING Baton Rouge police people’s preconceived notions. mourn July 22, 2016, Facebook said it is working with attack at the funeral of a gunned-down officer. five fact-checking and news organizations: abc News, the he number of police offi- fueling violence against officers. Flurry warned about this Associated Press, FactCheck cers killed in ambushes Floyd told Newsweek, “If we’re dangerous trend: “America’s .org, Politifact and Snopes. T in the United States going to spew anti-cop rhetoric, law enforcement is under Stories that flunk the fact check reached a two-decade high in anti-government rhetoric, then attack. On one side people in will be flagged as “disputed,” 2016, according to a year-end we have to realize there could communities are developing making them less visible on the report by the National Law be consequences of the type we a mistrustful, hostile, antago- platform’s news feed. Critics Enforcement Officers Memorial saw in Dallas” (July 12, 2016). nistic attitude, yelling at police, worry that the company, Fund. Of the 64 police officers Many politicians and media assaulting and even killing shot to death in the line of duty in commentators have demon- officers in some cases. Police 2016, 21 were killed in ambushes, strably distorted facts and are pulling back from doing including five in Dallas, Texas, made false accusations against their jobs for fear of attack, or and three in Baton Rouge, American police in general. losing their jobs or going to Louisiana. This is the highest They claim that America’s local prison for doing anything that total since 1995, and represents law enforcement needs to could be perceived as racist. On a 163 percent increase over be chastised for racism and the other, the federal govern- besides censoring stories that 2015, when eight officers were brought under federal control. ment is undermining local law are objectively false, will censor ambushed and killed. This sharp increase in ambush enforcement and stripping it of stories that conflict with the After the July 7, Baton Rouge attacks against police officers power in an effort to centralize political views of its leaders and attack, National Law Enforce- is a tragic effect of this agenda. policing power on the federal its partners. Facebook is the ment Officers Memorial Fund In the August 2015 Trumpet, level. You need to recognize just largest social media company president Craig Floyd stated almost a year before the Dallas how dangerous these trends in the world, with more than a that anti-police rhetoric was ambush, editor in chief Gerald really are.” n billion active monthly users. n

vadimguzha report taking a psychiatric drug that according to the federal / One in six Americans on psychiatric drugs were women, seniors above age government, crossed legal and 59, and Caucasians. ethical lines.”

istockphoto bout 1 in 6 American “Antipsychotics have become The U.S. has become the , adults were taking at huge moneymakers for the drug world’s most medicated nation least one psychiatric industry,” Consumer Reports by far. Though Americans luchezar / A drug in 2013, a study published wrote in December 2013. “In account for only 5 percent of by JAMA Internal Medicine on 2003, annual U.S. sales of the global population, they consume Dec. 12, 2016, showed. drugs were estimated at $2.8 75 percent of the world’s istockphoto , Researchers found that 12 billion; by 2011, that number had prescription drugs. This is not

slonov percent of adults were using risen to $18.2 billion. That huge because they are unhealthier / antidepressants; 8 percent growth was driven in part by than other people, but because underpinning causes of depres- com . were using anti-anxiety medi- one company—Janssen Phar- they hold a cultural belief that sion, anxiety and other mental istock

, cation, sedatives and hypnotics; maceuticals—and its aggressive drugs will help them escape the health problems, doctors simply and almost 2 percent were using promotion of off-label uses in effects of their problems without write a prescription for the images antipsychotic drugs. According children and elderly patients, having to address root causes. latest, most heavily promoted

getty to the study, those likeliest to relying on marketing tactics Instead of addressing the psychiatric drug. n MARCH 2017 31 u EASTERN EUROPE FROM PAGE 6 representing the powerful Gentile enough to assert themselves, they will Merkel warned European leaders of this empires that would rule the world from first attack Britain for standing firm fact. “I am convinced that Europe and the time of Daniel until the day Jesus with the U.S., and then they will return the EU must learn to take more responsi- Christ returns. The image’s head of gold a lot of hydrogen bombs the U.S. has bility in the world in the future,” she said. represented King Nebuchadnezzar’s stored now in Europe!” “Let’s not fool ourselves: From the view- Babylonian Empire, the chest of silver This process has probably taken point of some of our traditional partners, symbolized the Medo-Persian Empire, longer than many European leaders and I’m thinking of transatlantic ties, and the belly of bronze represented the expected, but today we see Eastern there is no guarantee of perpetuity for Greco-Macedonian Empire. Europeans desperately pleading close cooperation with us Europeans.” The statue’s two legs of iron repre- with Germany to step up and lead a The German leader insisted that only sented the Roman Empire. The legs European military force capable of a united Europe could solve crises like of the statue were divided, just as defending them from the aggressive Russian aggression in Ukraine. the Roman Empire would be divided expansionism of Vladimir Putin and For years, one of the main arguments between its western capital in Rome and the complacent indifference of Donald levied against the concept of a pan-Eu- its eastern capital in Constantinople. Trump. This 10-nation military super- ropean military is that such a fighting The original Roman Empire fell in power will be the force that ignites force would fatally undermine nato a.d. 476, yet other prophecies in Daniel World War iii! by creating a competing command 7, Revelation 13 and 17 reveal that the Yet the prophecy of Daniel 2 does not structure. Now that President Trump Roman Empire was to be resurrected conclude with the two legs of iron. It has openly proclaimed nato to be 10 times. That empire has, in fact, been concludes with the toes, the legs and obsolete, however, the architects of resurrected nine times and has already the entire, great monument of human such an EU army have more impetus to reawakened for the 10th time. And just empires being smashed to dust by a finish their project. In an ironic twist as each foot of the Daniel 2 image has stone from heaven. This stone then of geopolitics, both Vladimir Putin five toes, so the final resurrection of grows into a mountain that fills the and Donald Trump are goading Europe the Roman Empire is forecasted to be whole Earth (verses 34-35). The Prophet into becoming an independent military composed of five nations from the gen- Daniel explains the meaning of this superpower capable of standing up to eral area of the western Roman Empire mysterious symbol with this inspiring both Russia and America! and five nations from the general area verse: “And in the days of these kings of the eastern Roman Empire. shall the God of heaven set up a king- Resurrected Holy Roman Empire In the April 1980 issue of the Plain dom, which shall never be destroyed: Europe has been comparatively peace- Truth magazine, Mr. Armstrong fur- and the kingdom shall not be left to ful over the past seven decades, but it is ther predicted that fear of Russia and other people, but it shall break in pieces no stranger to military might, empire bitterness toward the United States and consume all these kingdoms, and it and war. Russia has its formula for would be among the catalysts driving shall stand for ever” (verse 44). greatness, but so does Europe. European unification. The end of the Daniel 2 prophecy Renowned educator and unofficial “You may be sure the West European is about God smashing all repressive ambassador for world peace Herbert leaders are conferring hurriedly and forms of human government and estab- W. Armstrong forecast for decades secretly about how and how soon they lishing a kingdom that ushers in a reign that Europe would produce a military may unite and provide a united Euro- of unprecedented peace and prosperity. Sadly, Estonia, Ukraine, Europe, “You may be sure the West European leaders America, Russia, Asia and the rest of humanity are going to have to expe- are conferring hurriedly and secretly about rience a lot of suffering in the time how and how soon they may unite and provide immediately ahead because we insist a united European military force so they can on rejecting God and relying instead on defend themselves!” —Herbert W. Armstrong arms, promises, alliances and nuclear weapons. We don’t realize it, but we superstate that would include nations pean military force so they can defend are proving the point we are trying to from its west and east. Even in the themselves!” he wrote. “And so they disprove: Human beings simply are midst of the Cold War, when Eastern will no longer have to give in meekly not capable of justly ruling themselves! Europe was essentially part of Russia, to Russia! And who will they blame for The good news—for Bärbel Salumäe trapped behind the Iron Curtain, Mr. their humiliation and their necessity and the rest of mankind—is that we Armstrong insisted that at least some now to have a united Europe, with a are now approaching a time when we of these nations would break free and united government, a common cur- can almost count the days until Christ join this European superstate. rency, and a common military force as returns to defend Eastern Europeans This wasn’t just a good guess; it great or greater than either the ussr or and all of humanity from our own mis- was based on Bible prophecy. Daniel the U.S.A.? They will blame the United guided and fatal attempts at governing 2 records a vision of a giant statue States! And when they are strong each other and ourselves. n 32 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET I WILL NEVER QUIT. I PERSEVERE AND PRINCIPLES THRIVE ON ADVERSITY. OF LIVING … IF KNOCKED DOWN, I WILL GET BACK UP, EVERY TIME. What Do You Stand For?

Lead an honorable life, so you can die an honorable death. by joel hilliker

eople naturally want to live. Some do just about whose job is to stare down death. If they are not absolutely anything to remain alive—ignore a wounded victim convicted of the cause, they will not perform their duty when P to avoid provoking a violent criminal; betray a friend called upon. They cement that conviction in a specific, practi- to comply with a dictator’s unjust demands; surrender to a cal way: by memorizing the U.S. Navy seal Ethos. tyrant rather than wage war. This says, in part, “My loyalty to country and team is beyond But in the end, we all die. You need to ask yourself: What reproach. I humbly serve as a guardian to my fellow Ameri- cause is worth dying for? cans, always ready to defend those who are unable to defend What are your foundational values? themselves. … I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my Is your sense of right and wrong so profession, placing the welfare and security of others before wholehearted and elemental that you my own. I serve with honor on and off the battlefield. … I will would stake your life on it? To live a never quit. I persevere and thrive on adversity. … If knocked truly honorable life, you need to prove down, I will get back up, every time. I will draw on every and then be governed by unshakable remaining ounce of strength to protect my teammates and to beliefs that you refuse to compromise, accomplish our mission. I am never out of the fight.” no matter the cost. This shows the power of articulating and codifying such joel hilliker Three young Jews had proven for beliefs. These words, burned into a seal’s mind, drive him themselves what was true and right. onward in the most grueling conditions. He commits to them, They had resolved to remain faithful to God whatever the con- and proves his commitment through the daily grind of drills, sequences. As they faced the most powerful, fearsome man on training, labor, sweat and pain. Then, when crisis arises, this Earth, who was about to execute them for refusing to worship guiding ethos is so ingrained into his fiber that he is able to an idol, they spoke with flinty conviction: “O Nebuchadnezzar, accomplish acts of uncommon valor and grit. we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our You need this kind of clarity of purpose, and commitment God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning to that purpose. It requires giving serious thought to life’s fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. larger questions. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve Take real time to pray and to think earnestly about this. thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set Write down your thoughts on the true guiding principles by up” (Daniel 3:16-18). The outraged king then pitched Shadrach, which you can make decisions, establish priorities, evaluate Meshach and Abednego alive into a blazing inferno. Only then, your actions, measure success and failure, and assess your after proving themselves unbreakable, did God deliver them. life. Think about what you would consider an honor to die If staying true to your beliefs gets you killed, that is an defending. This is not an exercise in morbidity, but in clarity. honorable death. Many of the prophets did so. Stephen did Don’t be a person who will die dishonorably—or save your- (Acts 7:58). John the Baptist did (Mark 6:27). Almost all of the self dishonorably—as your lack of principle is exposed. And apostles did. These individuals all await a resurrection to don’t be a person who will die quietly, regretting the wasted glory. Jesus Christ’s conviction motivated Him to sweat blood and unprincipled life left behind. Dig deep until you strike in order to avoid sin (Luke 22:44; Hebrews 12:3-4)—and to the golden virtues worth devoting your life and death to. Then sacrifice His life so you could live. throw yourself into serving those virtues and fulfilling your It is foolish to assume you won’t have to die for a cause. The life’s purpose, long before it ends. world is growing more dangerous. Savagery is spreading Then you will be able to stand on the threshold of an hon- globally, even unexpectedly besieging seemingly peaceful orable death, look back over your shoulder at an honorable areas. The time remaining in this age of man is growing short. life, and say with Paul in 2 Timothy 4:6-8: “For I am now You need to lock down your core beliefs and prove them ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. beyond doubt, or you will soon find yourself in circumstances I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have where they are tested past their breaking point. Winston kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of ahdesignconcepts / Churchill said, “Virtuous motives, trammeled by inertia and righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give com . timidity, are no match for armed and resolute wickedness.” me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that istock Consider the example of the United States Navy seals, love his appearing.” n MARCH 2017 33 DISCUSSION BOARD

This made me think about the climate in America post 9/11 (“Was This Germany’s 9/11?”, theTrumpet.com/go/14438). I was only in the 7th grade when the terrorist attack occurred, but I remember feeling a surge of patriotism as I saw the American flags go up on people’s houses or appear on their cars. I can still remember the emotion from listening to President Bush address the nation and announce that we were going to battle against the enemy. People wanted blood for the lives that were lost. Given Germany’s nationalistic past it doesn’t take much to imagine what sort of horror they will rain down on Islam once they have finally been jolted out of complacency. Whitney D. Kelsey oklahoma

Questioning America’s place republic so we would not have a democracy. a ‘king of fierce countenance,’ who rules as I tend to think that America under Mr. Trump Please explain. part of an old-fashioned Holy Roman Empire will lose its influence and respect, becoming Dan Briner church-state combine. Even America’s an undependable nation that will give government is in dire trouble, and possibly rise to a European power (“Great Again,” “Democracy” is one of those vague words deteriorating into the rule of a strongman.” theTrumpet.com/go/14437). Mr. Trump is that means different things to different If you want more information on the showing himself to be very ignorant in failing people. You are correct that the framers erosion of governmental checks-and- to embrace America’s own intelligence of the United States Constitution feared balances within America, read “Rise of the agencies. Perhaps he would rather believe “democracy” in its pure form, wherein Superpresident” from our May-June 2016 the KGB. Since Mr. Trump’s victory, many 51 percent of the people can take away issue (theTrumpet.com/go/13711). countries are questioning America’s place the rights of the other 49 percent simply Andrew Miiller in the world. Without its greatness, America by voting to do so. Instead, the U.S. is just like Russia or China, just another Constitution established a "democratic Crazy messages military power with nuclear weapons. republic,” wherein three branches of The main problem is the crazy messages Anonymous government check-and-balance each other that people are bombarded with through TV, in at attempt to prevent majority tyranny. newspapers and the Internet (“A Building Very insightful article that has truth For the past century, however, people Storm of Debt”, thetrumpet.com/go/14443). throughout. I also believe this past election have used the word “democracy” as an They tell everyone they can have it all right and the incoming administration has laid umbrella term to simultaneously describe now. Don’t bother saving up for anything. and will lay bare much corruption that has America’s democratic republic and the Just borrow the money and get what you gone on in this nation. parliamentary democracies of Europe. want instantly. Pay back in 5, 10, 15 or 25 Quinton Burke The point in our article was that years. Don’t worry about the future. And nations the world over are giving up on I am afraid 99 percent of people have no Vladimir Putin helping Iran make atomic "government of the people, by the people, willpower or discipline to resist spending weapons could possibly be why the king of for the people” in favor of authoritarian every penny on rubbish they don’t even need. the south can push at the king of the north. autocracies ruled by strongmen. As the Until people are able to save more of their When Mr. Putin tries to stop the U.S.A. article stated, "All the major power blocs spare cash and stop spending credit, the from putting a missile defense system in prophesied in the Bible are ruled by strong economies of the West are due for a huge Central Europe, claiming it will cause “a leaders. Russia will be led by a ‘prince of day of reckoning that will wipe us all out. global crisis,” we should know he is not to be Rosh,’ Vladimir Putin. Europe will be led by John trusted. Let us pray that the new president soon grasps what the real Putin is like. T. Lawrence

First time picking reese

Democracy dies with America up a Trumpet? zoellner Your February issue says democracy is Don’t let it be the last! /

dying (“Democracy Is Dying,” theTrumpet. trumpet com/go/14439). I thought our forefathers Get your free monthly subscription at theTrumpet.com/issue. established this country as a constitutional 34 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET now mistrust, disrespect and even attack law enforcement officers. Many hate the law more than they hate the crime. President Obama, occupying an office created to enforce COMMENTARY the law, personally undermined the rule of law, in some cases openly refusing to enforce laws that his office is specifically required to enforce. His enforcement of immigration was President Obama’s lawless at best, completely anti-law at worst. Mr. Obama gave a presidential endorsement to many more Hidden Legacy issues that fundamentally weakened America’s culture, economy and security. He flung the doors wide open on entitlement culture and spent hundreds of billions giving Did he ‘fundamentally transform America’? away phones, health care, money and more. He hooked tens by brad macdonald of millions more people on welfare benefits. He passed a gargantuan health-care law, reportedly the largest tax in ormer United States President Barack Obama ran his history, that was a massive federal overreach into Americans’ campaign on “change” and said he would “fundamentally personal lives. He became the biggest spender in world his- F transform America.” For eight years he added action tory, accumulating twice as much debt as his predecessor and to his words, and America has indeed been transformed, nearly doubling the national debt to almost $20 trillion. Can fundamentally. that be paid back—with interest—with a few signatures? President Donald Trump’s campaign inspired support by President Obama also invited inside the White House Black opposing Mr. Obama’s transformations. Candidate Trump said Lives Matter, an organization whose website reveals that it undoing what Obama had done would be easy: He could nullify has as much or more to do with anti-constitutional socialism his executive actions by issuing executive as with race-baiting. He bathed actions of his own. When Mr. Trump got the outside of the White House to work in January, he began signing them in the colors of the homosex- right away. ual/bisexual/transsexual/ But is reversing eight years of Obama queer/intersexual/etc. flag, as simple as signing executive actions celebrating the newfound right with the signature “Donald J. Trump”? Is of homosexuals to “marry.” it as simple as a Republican-controlled President Trump has said he Congress repealing laws passed by the is not interested in challenging previous Democrat-controlled Congresses? this law, which by itself funda- In reality, President Obama made eight mentally transforms America. years of systemic changes: not only legal President Obama success- and regulatory, but also cultural, moral and psychological. fully used the Justice Department and the Internal Revenue Some of this transformation of America cannot be reversed. Service as political weapons. He presided over the surveil- Let’s start with young Americans. The Obama Justice lance of journalists, the mass surveillance of average Amer- Department and Education Department enforced policies, icans, and the targeted killing of American citizens involved regulations and laws that prevent educators from disciplin- in terrorism. His Justice Department provided a framework ing insubordinate students. They argued that since statistics arguing that the federal government sometimes has the legal show that black teenagers are disciplined at a higher rate right to kill Americans without trial, overseas and at home. than white students, American teachers and administrators The most fundamental transformation President Obama are racist. Obama’s bureaucracy coerced and even prosecuted accomplished can be summarized in one word: lawlessness. schools into leaving two high school generations unrestrained The most important American office for enforcing laws was and unpunished. The result is millions of young people who occupied by a man who instead enforced his personal will. have been educated to throw off rules and laws. Unshackling the presidency from its constitutional limita- President Obama also attacked America’s prison system, tions is one of the most dangerous transformations of all, no accusing it of systemic racism. He blamed the makeup of jail matter who occupies the Oval Office. The worst legacy of the populations not on law breaking, but on the law itself, partic- Obama administration is the erosion of the rule of law. ularly the judges and law enforcement officers. He accused In 2017, America is a different nation from what it was on police of racism so vile that officers often murder a man Jan. 20, 2009. To sign away some of Mr. Obama’s policies simply because he is black. and laws will be easy, but to confront America’s changed By the end of Mr. Obama’s second term, it had become much mentality will not. To instead leave it as it is will be easy; to more common to see people marching in the streets, trashing transform it back to the way it was, much less to make it great, public places, beating people on the sidewalks, and rioting in will not. That’s because the Obama years appealed to an ugly, cities like Ferguson and Baltimore. destructive and powerful element: our lawless human nature. images Fringe arguments received the vocal support of the highest The only way to truly roll back the Obama years is to change

getty office in the country. Eight years on, many more Americans our own hearts and attitudes toward law. n MARCH 2017 35 u ANTIOCHUS FROM PAGE 14 Antiochus to garrison troops in Jerusalem in case the Jews thought to rebel. With the heart of Jerusalem desecrated and construc- tion underway on the citadel, Antiochus continued back to Antioch. There he made his policy official by issuing a formal decree to the entire realm. His decree stated that “the whole kingdom should be one people and that each nation must give up his customs.” To enforce his decree, he sent soldiers to Jerusalem and throughout the Judean countryside. The soldiers prevented the Jews from offering burnt offerings, sacri- fices and drink offerings in the sanctuary at Jerusalem. They forced them to keep strange customs, to build altars and shrines to idols, to sacrifice and eat unclean meats, to leave their sons uncircumcised, and to break the Sabbath. Those who would circumcise their sons were burned to death. Many Jews adopted the pagan religion. Philadelphia Trumpet editor in chief Gerald Flurry appears Antiochus was not just trying to control a subject popu- each week on The Key of David explaining the meaning behind lation. He sought to destroy every vestige of the truth and world events and teaching the inspiring truths of the Bible. laws of God. The program is also available at keyofdavid.com. Antiochus’s incursion into Judea was extremely successful. All of Judea turned over to Hellenism at the expense of the law of God—all, except for a family in ALL TIMES ARE A.M. LOCAL TIME UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED western Judea known as the Hasmonean family (or the UNITED STATES Maccabees). This family would later lead a rebellion Nationwide Satellite Connecticut, Hartford WHPX 6:00, Fri Galaxy 3 Trans. 17 11:30 ET, Tue/Thu Florida, Gainesville WCJB-DT 9:30, Sun against Antiochus and the Seleucid Kingdom, known as Galaxy 3 Trans. 21 11:30 ET, Tue/Thu Jacksonville WPXC/WPXJ-LP 6:00, Fri the Maccabean revolt. Direct TV Miami WPXM 6:00, Fri CW Plus, Chan. 34, 9:30 ET/PT, Sun Orlando WOPX 6:00, Fri Antiochus sent a number of generals into Judea over ION, Chan. 305, 6:00 ET, Fri Panama City WJHG-DT 8:30, Sun the next few years, but none of them was able to crush the WGN, Chan. 307, 8:00 ET, Sun Pensacola WFGX 7:30, Sun Dish Network Tallahassee WTXL 7:30, Sun; WTLF/ rebellion. Antiochus Epiphanes was with the main Seleu- ION, Chan. 216, 6:00 ET, Fri WTLH-DT 9:30, Sun cid army in the east trying to crush the rising Parthian WGN, Chan. 239, 8:00 ET, Sun Tampa WXPX 6:00, Fri Nationwide Cable West Palm Beach WPXP 6:00, Fri rebellion. It was there that he heard of the defeat of one CW Plus, 9:30 ET/PT, Sun Georgia, Albany WSWG-DT 9:30, Sun of his generals in Judea. Immediately he set out for Judea ION, 6:00 ET/PT, Fri Atlanta WPXA 6:00, Fri WGN, 8:00 ET, Sun Augusta-Aiken WAGT-DT 9:30, Sun himself to crush the rebellion. According to Polybius, Alabama, Birmingham WPXH 5:00, Fri; Brunswick WPXC 6:00, Fri a historian of the time, while Antiochus was en route to WVUA 8:30, Sun Columbus WLTZ-DT 9:30, Sun Dothan WTVY-DT 8:30, Sun Macon WMAZ-DT 9:30, Sun destroy the Jews, he was struck down and troubled with Mobile WFGX 7:30, Sun Savannah WGSA-DT 9:30, Sun a “perpetual delirium” of some sort, “imagining that Montgomery-Salem WBMM-DT/WNCF-DT Thomasville WTLF/WTLH-DT 9:30, Sun 8:30, Sun Hawaii, Hawaii Na Leo Chan. 54 6:30, Sun; specters [terrifying spirits] stood continually before him, Alaska, Anchorage KYUR-DT 8:30, Sun 8:30, Wed reproaching him with his crimes.” This torment drove Fairbanks KATN-DT 8:30, Sun Kaui Ho’ Ike Chan. 52 9:30, Tue Juneau KJUD-DT 8:30, Sun Maui/Lanaii/Molokai/Niihau/Akaku him literally insane. Soon after, in 164 b.c., Antiochus died. Arizona, Phoenix KPPX 5:00, Fri; Chan. 52 6:30 pm, Sun; 3:30, Mon For almost 2,200 years Antiochus’s name has been KASW 8:00, Sun Oahu Focus Chan. 49 7:00 am, Sat Yuma KECY-DT 8:30, Sun Chan. 27 5:00 am, Fri KPXO synonymous with the enemies of the Jews who would Arkansas, El Dorado KNOE-DT 8:30, Sun Idaho, Boise KYUU-LP/KBOI-DT 8:30, Sun take away their freedom, their lives and their truth. n Fayetteville KHBS-DT/KHOG-DT 8:30, Sun Idaho Falls KIFI-DT 8:30, Sun Fort Smith KHBS-DT/KHOG-DT 8:30, Sun Pocatello KIFI-DT 8:30, Sun Jonesboro KJOS 8:30, Sun Twin Falls KMVT-DT 8:30, Sun Rogers KHBS-DT/KHOG-DT 8:30, Sun Illinois, Bloomington WEEK-DT 8:30, Sun Springdale KHBS-DT/KHOG-DT 8:30, Sun Chicago WCUU 7:00, Mon-Fri; WCIU 9:30, California, Bakersfield KGET-DT 9:30, Sun Sun; WCPX 5:00, Fri Chico KHSL-DT 9:30, Sun; KRCR 9:00, Sun Peoria WEEK-DT 8:30, Sun El Centro KECY-DT 8:30, Sun Rockford WREX-DT 8:30, Sun An end-time Eureka KUVU-LP/KVIQ-DT 9:30, Sun Quincy WGEM-DT 8:30, Sun Los Angeles KPXN 6:00, Fri; Indiana, Fort Wayne WISE-DT 21.2 9:30, Sun Antiochus Monterey KION 9:30, Sun Indianapolis WIPX 6:00, Fri Palm Springs KCWQ/KESQ-DT 9:30, Sun Terre Haute WBI 9:30, Sun Redding KHSL-DT 9:30, Sun; Iowa, Cedar Rapids KPXR 5:00, Fri KRCR 9:00, Sun Des Moines KFPX 5:00, Fri To learn more about the parallels Sacramento KSPX 6:00, Fri; Keokuk WGEM-DT 8:30, Sun between Antiochus and America’s Salinas KION 9:30, Sun Mason City KTTC-DT 8:30, Sun former president, request a free San Francisco KKPX 6:00, Fri Ottumwa KWOT 8:30, Sun Santa Barbara-Santa Maria KSBY-DT Sioux City KTIV-DT 8:30, Sun copy of Gerald Flurry’s booklet 9:30, Sun Kansas, Topeka KTKA-DT 8:30, Sun America Under Attack. Colorado, Denver KPXC 5:00, Fri Pittsburg KSXF 8:30, Sun Grand Junction KJCT-DT 8:30, Sun Kentucky, Bowling Green WBKO-DT 8:30, Sun Montrose KJCT-DT 8:30, Sun Lexington WUPX 6:00, Fri

36 THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET Louisiana, Alexandria KALB-DT 8:30, Sun Toledo WMNT 8:00, Sun La Crosse WXOW-DT 8:30, Sun For a free Monroe KNOE-DT 8:30, Sun Zanesville WBZV 9:30, Sun Milwaukee WPXE 5:00, Fri Lafayette KADN 7:30, Sun; KATC-DT Oklahoma, Ada KTEN-DT 8:30, Sun Rhinelander WAOW/WYOW 8:30, Sun subscription to the 8:30, Sun Lawton KAUZ-DT 8:30, Sun Superior KDLH-DT 8:30, Sun Philadelphia Trumpet Lake Charles KVHP-DT 8:30, Sun Oklahoma City KOPX 5:00, Fri Wausau WAOW-DT/WYOW-DT 8:30, Sun New Orleans WPXL 5:00, Fri Tulsa KTPX 5:00, Fri Wyoming, Casper KCWY-DT 8:30, Sun in the U.S. and Canada, Maine, Bangor WABI-DT 9:30, Sun Oregon, Bend KTVZ-DT 9:30, Sun Cheyenne KGWN-DT/KCHW 8:30, Sun call 1-800-772-8577 Portland WPME 7:30, Sun; 7:00, Mon-Fri Eugene KEVU-TV 10:00, Sun; KLSR 8:30, Riverton KCWY-DT 8:30, Sun Presque Isle WBPQ 9:30, Sun Sun; KMTR-DT 9:30, Sun Maryland, Salisbury WMDT-DT 9:30, Sun Medford-Klamath Falls CANADA Massachusetts, Holyoke KTVL-DT 9:30, Sun Nationwide satellite STAFF WWLP-DT 9:30, Sun KPXG 6:00, Fri Galaxy 3 Trans. 17, 21 11:30 ET, Tue/Thu Publisher and Editor in Chief Portland Gerald Flurry Springfield WWLP-DT 9:30, Sun Pennsylvania, Erie WSEE-DT/WICU-DT Nationwide cable Executive Editor Michigan, Alpena WBAE 9:30, Sun 9:30, Sun WGN 8:00 ET, Sun Stephen Flurry Cadillac WBVC 9:30, Sun Philadelphia WPPX 6:00, Fri Vision TV 4:30 pm ET, Sun Managing Editor Detroit WPXD 6:00, Fri; WADL 10:00, Sun Wilkes Barre WQPX 6:00, Fri CHCH 11:30 ET, Sun Joel Hilliker Grand Rapids WZPX 5:00, Fri Rhode Island, Providence Atlantic Provinces Contributing Editors Lansing WLAJ-DT 9:30, Sun WPXQ 6:00, Fri CTV Atlantic 11:00 AT, Sun Brad Macdonald, Richard Palmer, Robert Marquette WBKP-DT/WBUP-DT 9:30, Sun South Carolina, Charleston Alberta, Red Deer KAYU 8:30, Sun Morley, Jeremiah Jacques, Dennis Leap Associate Editor Traverse City WBVC 9:30, Sun WCBD-DT 9:30, Sun Calgary KAYU 8:30, Sun Philip Nice Minnesota, Duluth KDLH-DT 8:30, Sun Florence WWMB-DT 9:30, Sun Edmonton KAYU 8:30, Sun Designer Mankato KWYE 8:30, Sun Myrtle Beach WWMB-DT 9:30, Sun Medicine Hat KAYU 8:30, Sun Steve Hercus Minneapolis KPXM 5:00, Fri South Dakota, Rapid City Lethbridge KAYU 8:30, Sun Contributors Rochester-Austin KTTC-DC 8:30, Sun KWBH/KNBN-DT 8:30, Sun British Columbia, Vancouver Anthony Chibarirwe, Andrew Miiller, Sioux Fall (Mitchell) KWSD/KSWD-DT Sioux Falls (Mitchell) KSFY-DT 8:30, Sun CHEK 9:00, Sun; CHNU 5:30 pm, Sun; Brent Nagtegaal, David Vejil, Callum Wood 8:30, Sun Tennessee, Chattanooga WFLI 10:30, Sun KCPQ 7:00, Sun Production Assistants Mississippi, Biloxi WXXV-DT 8:30, Sun Jackson WBJK 8:30, Sun Victoria CHNU 5:30 pm, Sun Deepika Azariah, Aubrey Mercado Researchers Columbus WCBI-DT 8:30, Sun Knoxville WPXK 6:00, Fri Manitoba, Winnipeg WUHF 8:30, Sun; Elizabeth Clarke, Kieren Underwood Greenville WBWD 8:30, Sun Memphis WPXX 5:00, Fri CIIT Joy TV 11:00, Sun Design Assistant Greenwood WBWD 8:30, Sun Nashville WNPX 5:00, Fri; WZTV 6:30 New Brunswick, Moncton CKCW-DT Reese Zoellner Gulfport WXXV-DT 8:30, Sun Texas, Abilene KTXS-DT 8:30, Sun 11, Sun Artists Hattiesburg WHLT-DT 8:30, Sun Amarillo KVII-DT/KVIH-DT 8:30, Sun Saint John CKLT-DT 11, Sun Gary Dorning, Melissa Barreiro, Laurel WHPM-DT 8:30, Sun Beaumont KFDM-DT 8:30, Sun Nova Scotia, Halifax WUHF 8:30, Sun; Julia Goddard Prepress Meridian WTOK-DT 8:30, Sun Brownsville KCWT/KNVO-DT 8:30, Sun CJCH-DT 11, Sun Wik Heerma WCBI-DT 8:30, Sun KRIS-DT 8:30, Sun WUHF 8:30, Sun; CJCB-TV 11, Sun Tupelo Corpus Christi Sydney International Editions Missouri, Columbia KOMU-DT 8:30, Sun Dallas KDAF 7:00, Sun Ontario, Ottawa CJOH 5:30, Sun Brad Macdonald Hannibal WGEM-DT 8:30, Sun Harlingen KCWT/KNVO-DT 8:30, Sun Toronto WADL 10:00 Sun; French, Italian Jefferson City KOMU-DT 8:30, Sun Houston KPXB 5:00, Fri WUTV 10:00, Sun; Deryle Hope Joplin KSXF 8:30, Sun Laredo KYLX 8:30, Sun CHNU 8:30 pm, Sun German Kansas City KPXE 5:00, Fri Longview KYTX-DT 8:30, Sun P.E.I., Charlottetown WUHF 8:30, Sun; Hans Schmidl Kirksville KWOT 8:30, Sun Lubbock KLCW-DT 8:30, Sun CKCW-DT 11, Sun Spanish St. Joseph KBJO/KNPN-DT 8:30, Sun Midland KWES-DT 8:30, Sun Quebec, Montreal WVNY 10:30, Sun Carlos Heyer Montana, Billings KTVQ-DT 8:30, Sun Odessa KWES-DT 8:30, Sun Saskatchewan, Saskatoon CFQC 5:30, Sun; Bozeman-Butte KBZK-DT/KXLF-DT Port Arthur KFDM 8:30, Sun WUHF 8:30, Sun THE PHILADELPHIA TRUMPET 8:30, Sun San Angelo KDXE 8:30, Sun (issn 10706348) is published monthly (except bimonthly May-June and Glendive KWZB 8:30, Sun San Antonio KPXL 5:00, Fri CARIBBEAN November-December issues) by the Great Falls KRTV-DT 8:30, Sun Sherman KTEN-DT 8:30, Sun Regional satellite Philadelphia Church of God, 14400 S. 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