3 Colleen Bailey talks appreciatively about her family’s life with Ryan 7 Norman Edwards recommends you participate in a macroministry 9 Ken Westby talks about the power TheJournal of one and what it means for you 32 Dave Havir has an unusual take on News of the Churches of God the ages-old tongues question Vol. XIV, No. 2 Founded 1997 Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Someone warns him: Slow Ron Dart down, your car’s out of oil recovering The author, a 61-year-old former wish to move back to Sydney it meant after injury IT manager, holds degrees in town a twice-weekly four-hour road trip to YLER, Texas—As of this planning, the history and philosophy and from. During the working week I writing, Ron Dart, founder of science, and computing studies. He lodged with kind friends. T of Christian Educational and his wife, Cindy, live in Australia’s The Greyhound coach service was Ministries and speaker on the Born capital, Canberra, where for 12 years cheaper and easier than driving but to Win radio program, is recover- they have been part of a small, inde- had proved unreliable. Air travel was ing after an injury he sustained in pendent Sabbath group. far too expensive. Trains were few JOURNAL photo his residence in This is the fifth in THE JOURNAL’s and far between. I relied on my car to Whitehouse, series about experiences readers have make the trip. Texas, on April had that may involve angels. Here I must confess that I’d grown 9, 2010. more than a bit slack when it came to Mr. Dart By Walter Steensby car maintenance. As long as the car ac- tripped over a ANBERRA, Australia—When tually went and I could see through the brick fireplace God helps us His agents don’t windscreen, everything was all right. hearth and hit Cnecessar- The long-suffering car was a Re- his head on a ily take visible nault model heavy for its size, mean- wooden book- form. Many of ing that it had a poor power-to-weight Ron Dart shelf. He suf- us have had ex- ratio. On other than flat roads I need- fered a concus- perience of di- ed to work the engine hard to keep up sion and “bleeding in his brain” vine help given a good average speed. and, after entering a hospital, a by unseen and One Friday evening I was rapidly JUST WHAT DO YOU MEAN THE BIBLE?—Art Mokarow of Conroe, Texas, blood clot and pneumonia. yet very real ac- heading home. The week had been an and Dennis Diehl of Greenville, S.C., debated the nature of the Bible on Feb. 21, He is gradually recovering dur- tors. To me, the unusually tough one. Work had been 2010, in Whitehouse, Texas. Right: Mr. Mokarow pauses minutes before the ing a hospital stay of about two debate. Left: Mr. Diehl reflects minutes after the debate. Also participating, on Mr. months to date. He transferred to a fact of divine demanding. Sydney had been even Mokarow’s side, was Ron Moseley of North Little Rock, Ark. For extensive debate help is sure. Let more of a madhouse than usual, too rehabilitation hospital on May 6 for excerpts see the article beginning below. For more photos of the debaters see coordination and speech therapy. me explain. much noise and pollution, too much pages 10-12 and 28-31. [Photos by Dixon Cartwright] In the mid- Walter Steensby rush and nervous haste. I was worn 1980s I had gone out, fed up and keen to get home to through a long and difficult time sane, green Canberra. financially. I was living in the nation- Some readers may remember that al capital, Canberra, earning my keep in those days the divided road began a Two former Worldwide Church of God pastors as a computer programmer. few kilometers south of Liverpool on Local demand for my set of infor- the outskirts of Sydney and ended just face off in a debate about the nature of the Bible mation-technology skills had dried before Mittagong, about 60 kilometers up, but I’d landed a long-term con- of freeway traveled in just over half an By Dixon Cartwright a friend, 62-year-old Bible scholar would be fine with him. tract programming job in Sydney. hour at the legal limit of 110 kilo- HITEHOUSE, Texas—Two and former Baptist preacher from So, sitting on one side during the This was great, but since I did not See DIVINE HELP, page 27 former Worldwide Church North Little Rock, Ark., Ron Moseley. invariably civil discussion were Mr. of God pastors met for a Mokarow and Dr. Moseley and on the W Mr. Diehl didn’t mind one-of-a-kind event near Tyler, Texas, other Mr. Diehl. Feb. 21, 2010. They got together in a Dr. Moseley, who has two doctor’s The location was the building Church of God setting to debate degrees and has studied at numerous owned by the Tyler Sabbath Fellow- ‘Go Into All the World’ theme whether the Bible is the inspired Word colleges and universities, does not ship, whose membership and board, of God or not. have a WCG background although he including elders Gary Woodring and Art Mokarow, an 82-year-old for- is a Sabbatarian Christian. Dennis Hughes, welcomed the de- of UCG elders’ conference mer administrator and church pastor Mr. Mokarow, some weeks before baters and the approximately 20 peo- By Dixon Cartwright Four new terms who left the WCG in 1979, went head the debate, checked to see if Mr. ple who watched and listened for to head with Dennis Diehl, a 60-year- Diehl—who does believe in God more than three hours on a Sunday lders of the United Church of The voting came after the nomi- God an International Associa- old former WCG pastor who, since although no longer in the Bible— afternoon. tion, meeting for the 16th nation process, in which elders his departure from the WCG in 1998, would mind if Dr. Moseley participat- How did such an event come to be? E chose eight of their fellow ministers has decided he is no longer a believer ed, even though Dr. Moseley’s partic- time as a body (if you count the It started in Detroit founding conference in Indianap- to participate in the election to fill in the inerrancy and literalism of the ipation would mean the debate would olis, Ind., in 1995), convened May the four open council seats. Bible. pit two against one. In August 2008, during a confer- 1-3, 2010, at Holiday Inn Eastgate in Here is the new council configu- Mr. Mokarow, who lives in Conroe, But Mr. Diehl, who lives in Green- ence and seminars about biblical and Cincinnati, Ohio. ration as of July 1, 2010: Scott Ash- Texas, was assisted and backed up by ville, S.C., said that arrangement See DEBATE ABOUT, page 10 During this year’s conference 399 ley, Arvada, Colo; David Baker, elders, most present at the meeting Honeoye Falls, N.Y. (international; location but others participating by he serves as a church employee in phone or Internet, elected four men Africa, even though he is a resident to sit for new terms on the 12-man of the United TV show about Waco Jamaica UB incorporates council of elders, along with two States); Bob men who were confirmed by ballot Berendt, Ed- could have been better tireless evangelism efforts to replace resigning council mem- monton, Alta., bers. Canada (inter- The writer, a 1970 Ambassador College graduate The writer is an elder of the Church of God Interna- The voters chose Mike Black- national); and founder of The Reunion Institute, a Houston re- tional residing and serving in Jamaica. well, Mario Seiglie and David Trey- Mike Black- search ministry, received his Ph.D. in historical theol- big as the three new council mem- well, Spring- ogy from Rice University in 1990. He also holds an By Glenford Smith bers and returned Robert Berendt field, Mo.; Aar- M.A. in philosophy of religion from Rice and an M.A. INGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaican Church (one of the three international coun- on Dean, Glade- in the history of ideas from the of God International reaped another bounteous cillors) to his seat on the governing water, Texas; Melvin Rhodes University of Houston. Kharvest from its tireless evangelism efforts board. Mr. Seiglie had served on the William Ed- when Pastor Ian Boyne baptized council some years ago but was not dington, Melbourne, Australia (in- By J. Phillip Arnold 15 new members during an excit- a current incumbent. ternational); Jim Franks, Milford, OUSTON, Texas—The ing and memorable 2010 Pass- The conference also confirmed Ohio (soon to move to Austin, television documentary over season. David Baker and Jim Franks to serve Texas); Darris McNeely, Green- H Witness to Waco ran This was the highest ever Pass- out the remainder of the terms of two wood, Ind.; Melvin Rhodes, Lansing, Oct. 18, 2009, on MSNBC for over baptism apart from immers- men who had resigned their positions Mich.; Mario Seiglie, Anaheim, two hours and could have done ing an entire congregation four before their terms had ended: Clyde Calif.; David Treybig, Lutz, Fla.; and a far better job of analyzing years ago. These baptisms fol- Kilough of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Robin Webber, Romoland, Calif. those dark days near Waco, lowed on the heels of six persons Richard Thompson of Eustis, Fla. Conference theme Texas, in 1993. Phillip Arnold baptized during the Feast of Tab- The elders by secret ballot voted Waco, of course, was the ernacles in 2009 and a previous for or against the candidates and as After this year’s conference, location of the standoff between agents of the U.S. Glenford Smith six earlier at Passover. well for or against the yearly strate- whose theme was “Go Into All the government with David Koresh and his followers, a The candidates were baptized on the day of the gic and operation plans and the World,” the council chose one of its group of Sabbath- and Feast-keeping Christians in Passover, Sunday, March 28, 2010, at the Kingston 2010-11 budget. own—Mr. Rhodes—to serve as its central Texas. Mr. Koresh had proclaimed himself the YMCA swimming pool. The baptisms were witnessed All three measures passed. See UCG ELDERS, page 26 See WACO NEGOTIATOR, page 8 See 400 OBSERVE, page 25 2 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Letters from our readers

Brian Knowles in 1998 Just how universal finally got to read the article in the is salvation? How to subscribe to THE JOURNAL recent JOURNAL that was a long-lost In the Feb. 28, 2010, Keep up with news of the Churches of God THE JOURNAL, c/o Lewis McCann, 24 Brad- interview with Brian Knowles. issue of THE JOURNAL and your friends in all the groups by sub- vue Cres., Bradville, Milton Keynes MK13 I scribing to THE JOURNAL:NEWS OF THE 7AJ, United Kingdom; £18 for 12 issues; [See “THE JOURNAL Unearths a Never- Paul and Micki Herr- CHURCHES OF GOD for (in the United States) [email protected]. Before-Published Interview With mann wrote a letter $15 for six issues, $28 for 12 issues or $49 Brian Knowles at the 1998 Feast,” titled “Universal THE JOURNAL, c/o Walter Steensby, P.O. for 24 issues. Gift subscriptions to THE JOUR- Box 4305, Hawker, A.C.T. 2614, Australia; issue No. 138, dated Feb. 28, 2010.] Question.” Their letter, NAL are available. For non-U.S. subscriptions [email protected]. $A30 for 12 is- I find such articles especially inter- after citing John 6:37 mailed from Big Sandy, the price is $17 for sues, $A55 for 24 issues; for pensioners, esting because they give an inside (“All that the Father gives six issues, $30 for 12 issues or $51 for 24 is- $A24 for 12 issues, $A43 for 24 issues. view of how the WCG operated. The Me will come to Me, and sues. For prices for ordering through one of Checks payable to Journal Services. our international distributors, below, please THE JOURNAL, c/o Rosemary Morton, 9b history is so interesting since I was the one who comes to Me I check with the individual distributor. part of it in Pasadena and Big Sandy will by no means cast James St., Plimmerton, Porirua 5026, New for so many years. out”), asked: To subscribe, renew or order a gift subscrip- Zealand, or john.rosemary@paradise. tion in the United States, Australia, Britain, net.nz; $NZ30 for 12 issues; reduced rates Do you have an E-mail address for “Isn’t this the answer to Canada, South Africa, New Zealand or on application if needed. Please make Brian that I can have? There were sev- the futureness of the book of Reve- the question about universal salva- elsewhere, use the coupon on the last page checks payable to R.H. Morton. eral people mentioned that we had ties lation, I felt it an important topic to tion?” or a plain piece of paper and mail to one of Canadian subscribers: Please subscribe to including his wife. I would like to address. There is no doubt that Gehenna fire these addresses (when ordering from the through the Big Sandy address. Canadian contact him and mention that to him. Overall I really enjoyed the experi- will have been created and prepared U.S. address, please remit in U.S. funds): subscriptions in U.S. dollars are $17 for six I would also like to encourage him ence and used it to bring a bit more for a purpose, and God already knows THE JOURNAL, P. O. Box 1020, Big Sandy, monthly issues, $30 for 12 issues or $51 for Texas 75755, U.S.A.; [email protected]. 24 issues. Please remit in U.S. funds drawn to write again for THE JOURNAL be- closure to my own experience with who has reservations for it. This is one cause his articles are always thought- the misguided literalism so many get reason salvation is not as universal as (See subscription prices above.) on a U.S. bank or as a postal money order. provoking. caught up in. Truly pious conviction one may think. Horst Obermeit mixed with marginal information has “Then shall he say also unto them Thank you, Darlene 14:9 in the NKJV: “Only do not rebel Kenly, N.C. always been a hallmark definition of on the left hand, Depart from me, ye We are down under and so only against the LORD, nor fear the people many of the COGs and really all fun- cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared recently received the February 2010 of the land, for they are our bread.” Debater comments damentalist Christians. edition. The article by Darlene Warren After checking several other trans- Regarding the debate on Feb. 21, for the devil and his angels” (Matthew Dennis Diehl 25:41). titled “What Does It Mean to Walk lations, it still was not clear until I read 2010, near Tyler, Texas [see the article Through the Valley of the Shadow of the Lamsa version from the Aramaic: about the debate beginning on page 1 [email protected] Then, what about the salvation of Greenville, S.C. human beings? The following scrip- Death?” was most inspiring for me. “Only do not rebel against the of this issue of THE JOURNAL]: ture easily answers that question: My father was diagnosed last year Lord, neither be afraid of the people of First of all I’d like to thank Dixon Is God one or none? “. . . God was in Christ, reconciling (around August) with lung cancer. He the land; for their conquest will be as Cartwright for sponsoring this event In the Feb. 28, 2010, issue of THE the world unto himself, not imputing had chemo, but then the cancer spread easy as eating bread.” and Art Mokarow for his generous JOURNAL, the ad by Wade Cox claims their trespasses unto them; and hath to his brain. This affected him in that A footnote on this verse from the offer to have me debate him and Dr. his doctrine of just one God is right be- committed unto us the word of recon- he knew what he wanted to say but his Lamsa version: “In Aramaic when a Moseley. cause so many people embrace it now. ciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:19). mouth wouldn’t get the words out. task is simple or easy, it is said it is Having pastored in the WCG for 26 But the merits of a doctrine do not God does that reconciling for the So the doctors gave him radiation, like eating bread.” years, I have to say I was surprised at depend on whether it is popular or not. world, and not just for those few (John and this helped shrink the tumor and What modern country has the com- being invited to speak on such topics Even he claims this was not the case a 6:44; 17:12; 6:37) drawn, or dragged, he was able to speak clearly again. mon colloquialism “It’s a piece of in the Church of God. while ago. So was the doctrine wrong by the Father. And, if God does not do Then he had a fall at home and cake” or “It’s as easy as pie”? It is interesting to me to have min- when few believed it? that, then who will do it? knocked his head and so was taken to Numbers 13:8 clearly states Joshua isters, as they have done through the Pagan doctrines are quite popular How important is Christ, our Pass- hospital. He really started to deterio- was of the tribe of Ephraim. This years, tell me “you say the things I with the masses. Yet the Bible’s true over? Many of us observed this year’s rate and died in his sleep on the 6th of clearer understanding will possibly only think.” Perhaps had we spoken doctrines are not accepted by the vast Passover on the evening of March 28, April. add weight to the argument that the up in years past instead of just majority of mankind. So are they 2010, and we know our Passover “is Anyway, near the end Dad did start U.S.A. is truly predominantly the tribe thought, we could have avoided many wrong? This popularity reason (half the propitiation for our sins: and not to sleep a lot and didn’t want to watch of Ephraim. of the problems that hurt so many with his ad) is used to bolster his status and TV or even read (one of his great plea- Ernest R. Schreiber the WCG experience. for ours only, but also for the sins of a bad doctrine. the whole world” (1 John 2:2). sures in life). So this article really Justin, Texas I felt that few if any of my specific He claims many in the COGs have observations about everything from That propitiation is not for Satan helped put things in perspective. accepted the false god Attis. Satan has and his devils. Whenever God begins Thank you! the real meaning of the Genesis myth- Please let THE JOURNAL ologies to the suspicions about the many counterfeits as many false saviors something, we may be confident that Leonie Peers apostle Paul’s role in founding Chris- mimicking Christ (perhaps 12 of them). He is sure to complete it. Via the Internet know when you move tianity were left unaddressed. Please notify THE JOURNAL before you Kicking into preaching mode in move or change your mailing ad- answer to specific observations about ‘The article by Darlene Warren titled “What Does dress. Post offices do not forward the errancy of the Bible does not ad- periodicals-class postage, therefore dress the question. My keeper state- It Mean to Walk Through the Valley of the Shadow THE JOURNAL must pay the U.S. Postal Service for each issue returned from ment came from Dr. Moseley when he of Death?” was most inspiring for me.’ an invalid American address. Send said that the fossil record “shows no your old and new addresses to evidence of evolution.” Change of Address, P.O. Box 1020, I could hardly agree less because Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A., or to the fossil record shows nothing but Just because there are many false ones “Being confident of this very thing, Sighting the new moon the appropriate address listed in the evidence for evolution, including does not mean the true one is false. that he which hath begun a good work The article “Superstition” (THE box at the top of this page. Or you human. I would suggest a good read The various COGs do have many in you will perform it until the day of JOURNAL, Feb. 28 2010, page 17) shows may fax (903) 636-9097 or E-mail of Evolution: What the Fossils Say Protestant doctrinal errors, as Wade Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). that for the years 1996-2006 the Day of [email protected] to report your and Why It’s Important by Donald Cox claims, which lead to division John Gordon Trumpets on the Hebrew calendar address change. Prothero to put that topic to rest. among us. But the doctrine of two Nashua, N.H. rarely coincides with either the astro- I was also a bit taken aback by Mr. Gods now is not wrong. nomical new moon (once in 11 years) From the article “Ditheism” by him Always on a Monday or first sighting of the new moon (four Mokarow’s statement to the audience Old-timers who were members of when he said: “I want you to listen to and others: out of 11, or 4/11). TheJournal “Binitarianism is not a Christian the Worldwide Church back in the Thus “nothing we can observe in the Dennis. Everything he is telling you is 1950s and ’60s will remember that News of the Churches of God true.” doctrine. It is a pagan heresy that has heavens coordinates with the calendar every year in late spring everyone said P. O. Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755 I understand that “As I am so was no place in the Church of God and you are probably using.” (The writer to each other: Pentecost is always on a THE JOURNAL:NEWS OF THE CHURCHES OF GOD is pub- Mr. Mokarow, and as he is so shall I those that espouse it should be re- overlooks that the first sighting of the Monday. lished by JMC Associates. become” was the point he was mak- moved as idolaters.” new moon is just after sunset—i.e., on ing. However, we are not on the same Harsh words. These verses disagree: So how did it get changed to a the next day—so it’s actually 1/11. POSTMASTER: Send change-of-address no- Hebrews 1:6: “And again, when Sunday? tices to THE JOURNAL, P.O. Box 1020, Big page, and the statement seemed to And, adding 2007-2010, it’s 1/15.) Sandy, Texas 75755. derail specific discussion about spe- he bringeth in the firstbegotten into The answer may surprise you. In Mr. Armstrong always taught that a the world, he saith, And let all the fact, we think you may even be SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.: $15 for six issues; $28 cific examples I brought up either month begins at the sighting of the for 12 issues; $49 for 24 issues. Outside about creationism or Paul’s role in the angels of God worship him.” shocked. new moon in Jerusalem, not some- Most faithful and sincere members U.S., mailed from Big Sandy: $17 for six New Testament church as one most Philippians 2:10: “. . . At the where between the astronomical and issues; $30 for 12 issues; $51 for 24 issues. name of Jesus every knee should bow, will probably think the head and hated by the other apostles. sighted new moon. THE JOURNAL is an independent publication Discussion of the book of Reve- of things in heaven, and things in leader of Worldwide, or his board of The doctrine was set out clearly in directors, must have done an in-depth not affiliated with any church organization. lation as a failed 1st-century prophecy earth, and things under the earth.” The Good News of October 1957. Printed in U.S.A. © 2010 JMC Associates. prior to the fall of Jerusalem with Paul See my article “God Is None: Is study of the subject and come to the Mr. Armstrong possessed only as- conclusion that Pentecost should be All rights reserved. No part of this publica- being the “apostle found wanting” by God 3, 2, 1 or None?” at 23jan.spaces. tronomical new-moon data, from tion may be reproduced or transmitted in changed from a Monday to always on the Jerusalem church seemed to get live.com. which he concluded, quite reasonably, any form or by any means, electronic or little response as well. Jan Young a Sunday. that the Hebrew calendar must calcu- mechanical, including photocopying, record- With whole COGs depending on Yuma, Ariz. Wrong! That’s not the way it hap- late the times of the sighted new moon. ing or any other information-storage-and- pened. retrieval system without the written permis- We now know that it rarely does So here is the skinny. This is how it sion of the publisher. this. Even so, ministers remaining went down. Herbert W. Armstrong EDITOR AND PUBLISHER: Dixon Cartwright faithful to Mr. Armstrong’s doctrines decided to consult the chief Jewish Policy on letters to the editor continue to teach that it does. MANAGING EDITOR: Darlene Warren rabbi for all of the United States of CONTRIBUTORS: Ewin Barnett, Ian Boyne, Trey Because of limited space, please limit the length of letters. Longer letters are America. The rabbi said Pentecost The question then arises: Should subject to editing for length. All letters are subject to editing for length, clar- we keep Trumpets on Sept. 9, 2010 Cartwright, Earl Cayton, Steven Collins, Dave should always be observed on a Havir, Kathleen McCann, Mac Overton, Jamie ity and technical style. (Hebrew calendar)—before it’s possi- Sunday. Payne, Eric Snow, Ellis Stewart, Bill Stough, Please include full name, city, state or province and country in letters sent Case closed. ble to see the new moon—or should John Warren, Wesley White, Kenneth Westby we heed “God’s instructions”? by regular or electronic mail. THE JOURNAL does not publish unsigned letters The followers of HWA still keep CIRCULATION: Linda Cartwright, [email protected] but may occasionally publish letters with writer’s name and/or city of resi- Peter Cross Pentecost on a Sunday. Ironically and WEB SITE: Alan Ruth, [email protected] dence withheld. Manchester, England incredibly, the Jews don’t always keep THE JOURNAL will not knowingly print inaccu- Mail letters and subscription inquiries to THE JOURNAL at P.O. Box 1020, Big this holy day on a Sunday. Piece of cake rate information. THE JOURNAL will run correc- Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A. Fax (903) 636-9097. E-mail [email protected]. So what do you think? Or do you? I recently came across a better un- tions if notification of errors is received with- E-mail the editor at [email protected]. Paul and Micki Herrmann derstanding of a scripture that had in a reasonable time after publication. Metairie, La. puzzled me many times. Numbers Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) THE JOURNAL 3 Columns and commentary Cartoon by Earl Cayton, San Francisco, Calif. Better to prune now than languish later The writer attends the Twin Cities ing, Mr. Campo assured me he was Satan soon came at Job like a buzz Church of God, an independent fel- not cutting down the tree. He was just saw, and Job was drastically pruned. lowship in Hopkins, Minn. He lives pruning it. Later, as though to symbolize the “All right, with his wife, Julie, and two daughters internal change within Job, God in Eagan. Mr. Przeslawski is a 1985 Why so much? blessed him with twice as many pos- ,sneaky, graduate of the University of Minne- “But why would you cut off so sessions and a beautiful new family sota. He has been in contact with the many branches?” I asked. (Job 42:10-16). Perhaps his new fam- I saw Churches of God since 1974. He explained that next year there ily was a type of our beautiful new would be much more fruit. family in Christ. !”that!” By Luke Przeslawski I have to honestly say that at the Hebrews 12:5-6 cautions us: “My AGAN, Minn.—God gave me time I didn’t believe him. But wouldn’t son, do not despise the chastening of a special blessing by having me you know it? Next year there was lit- the LORD, nor be discouraged when Egrow up next door to my faith- erally twice as much delicious fruit you are rebuked by Him; for whom ful and lifelong friend Tony Campo. to eat. the LORD loves, He chastens.” Tony’s dad loved to tend his garden Thus it was Mr. Campo who intro- Later, in verse 11, the writer of He- fruit trees in their duced me to the biblical concept of brews clarifies why God does this: so backyard, as much pruning. that our life can yield “the peaceable as time would fruit of righteousness.” allow. Like a buzz saw Similar to Mr. Campo’s plum tree, I especially We read of it in John 15 where God wants us to bear more and sweet- loved the plum Jesus tells us: “I am the true vine, and er fruit individually and collectively. tree, because To- my Father is the Vinedresser. Every ny would share branch in Me that does not bear fruit Take comfort Thank God for our heroes its delicious fruit He takes away, and every branch that I have come to understand there are with me. bears fruit, He prunes, that it may bear times in the course of events that indi- This article ran as a chapter of Rachel has worked in a CPA of- One day I saw more fruit!” (verses 1-2). viduals, churches and even countries the book Gifts 2: How People With fice locating and managing docu- something that Luke Przeslawski Jesus clarified that our Father God will be pruned by God. Pruning is an Down Syndrome Enrich the World, ments with ease because of her ex- really upset me. utilizes the principle of pruning in our integral part of His plan for humanity. edited by Kathryn L. Soper and pub- traordinary memory, and more re- It appeared that Mr. Campo was cut- spiritual development. Simply knowing this may not make lished by Woodbine House in 2009. cently in an upscale delicatessen. ting down my favorite tree! I ran out- An obvious biblical example is the process of pruning any less pain- It is printed here (with updates) by While visiting Rachel at her side and over to the fence and pleaded, Job’s. The Bible makes it clear that ful, but we can take comfort in know- permission. Mrs. Bailey is a former office for her television interview “Please Mr. Campo, please don’t cut Job was a decent man. Yet God want- ing that despite the process of God’s employee of Ambassador College about the Buddy Walk (an annual down that plum tree!” ed more out of Job. So He allowed pruning, indeed because of it, better, and the Worldwide Church of God. event to raise awareness of Down After realizing my misunderstand- Satan to have at him. more-fruitful days lie ahead for us. syndrome), I noticed how friendly By Colleen Bailey she was to her coworkers. LADEWATER, Texas— Her volunteer association with Hero: “a person of distin- the national AMBUCS group (Amer- Gguished courage or ability, ican Business Clubs, a national char- Mom said never gamble with your health admired for his brave deeds and itable organization that helps create The writer attends the Church of people believe they will not.” ample of how my mom’s influence noble qualities.” mobility and independence for peo- God Big Sandy with her husband, Bull’s-eye. So much for believing I has blessed me at this stage of my life. Heroes save ple with disabilities) resulted in our Chuck. was just a little bit better than other Several weeks ago I lost a good us. Heroes over- son receiving a specially designed By Judith Biggs people. friend to cancer caused by smoking come adversi- Amtryke bicycle for people with IG SANDY, Texas—One day Her response got me thinking. Why and eating junk food. He was only in ty. Heroes in- mobility challenges. spire us. He- in my late 20s I asked a ques- did I think I would get caught? Then his mid-50s. Meeting Lisa tion of a friend: “Why don’t I the answer hit me like a ton of bricks. In the last couple of years he and roes change us B forever. During Ryan’s second year we get into trouble Mama had two sets of eyes! his family had made a gallant effort to like most people right those wrongs. He undertook his When our met Lisa. Ryan’s speech pathologist I know?” Mom’s extra set gamble as a young man. firstborn child had told us about an amazing young arrived in our woman with Down syndrome who You have to When I was little I wanted to sneak Am I better than my friend because Colleen Bailey understand that up behind Mama, part her thick brown I don’t smoke or eat junk food? Abso- 21st year of was on tour with the national Wom- people consid- hair and stare at that extra set of eyes. lutely not! Better? No. Blessed? Yes. marriage, we en of Faith organization. ered me a goody All four eyes had excellent periph- were elated. When we heard the diag- After some inquiries, Lisa’s mom two-shoes. eral vision as well. They could even Play it safe nosis of Down syndrome we were and I began communicating. I was (Goody Two- see inside my head. She knew what I And why am I blessed? The credit devastated. treated to a private viewing of Lisa’s Shoes was a char- was going to do even before I did. goes to my mom. beautiful sign-language performance Sleep deprivation accompanied by Sandi Patty’s music. acter in a chil- Judith Biggs What a supermom! She is the one with her four eyes dren’s story in Until I had that conversation with and insight who taught me well not to Four weeks after Ryan’s birth I sat A year later, after attending a tap- 1934. She was something like Little my friend, I had no idea how blessed I gamble. It is because of her that I have alone and cold on a remote country ing of her performance for a tele- Lord Fauntleroy or Pollyanna.) was to have a mom with four eyes or chosen to go in a better direction con- road staring at the prescription bottles I vised TBN concert with Sandi Patty, To be honest, I was sort of viewing a friend to set me straight. cerning health matters. had grabbed before leaving the house. I overheard ladies talking in the myself the same way. I have reaped wonderful blessings Sleep deprivation had set in after restroom. My friend answered: “Because you Recent example because of my mom. Thanks, Mom. weeks of worrying about my new- “That Lisa gave me chills,” ex- believe you will get caught and most Allow me to give you a recent ex- Thanks, God, for giving me my mom. born’s health and future. He didn’t pressed one concert patron. have the strength to breast-feed. I felt “Did you see how passionate that like a failure. I thought that someone young girl was in her performance?” else would be a better mom. another one asked. My husband rushed home from I just listened from behind the A mother’s written words are precious work to join the search for me. closed stall door and smiled. Did I While family and friends were pray- mention Lisa performed on the Dr. The writer is a regular columnist much and wishes you and Bonnie mother around. [Edith Harris, died ing, flashes of my newborn’s inno- Phil show too and now has her own for THE JOURNAL and pastor of the much happiness in your marriage and from tuberculosis.] cent face and gentle disposition gave Web site and talent agent? Church of God Big Sandy. whatever else you set out to do. He made us feel important and have me the courage to return home. I am not very good at the spoken enough self-esteem that we felt we Ryan needed a hero. While I was Josh’s example By Dave Havir word, but I will try to express my could tackle anything worthwhile. pretty sure it wouldn’t be me, I was As Ryan continues to grow, I’m UNKLETOWN, Pa.—After thoughts and He had time determined to find him one. grateful for heroes like Josh who are our mother (Camilla Gill of feelings on to play games exceptional role models. Every time KKunkletown) died on Sunday, paper. and give us his Friendship with Rachel I see Josh he kisses my hand like a June 6, 2010, we had a memorial ser- I do feel attention and A year later we met Rachel, a true gentleman. vice on Thursday, June 10. At this cel- very good time (what little young adult with Down syndrome He was raised to respect ladies ebration of her life we heard many about your time he had left who cheerfully took pictures at a and was named 2007 Goodwill Am- wonderful eulogies by family and marriage. You over after work- luncheon our group hosted for bassador for our local Buddy Walk. friends. waited a long ing ten hours a champion swimmer Karen Gaffney. His character is invaluable in this I would like to share some words time for this day). At first I was just impressed that world and a real gift that stands out my brother John used in his comments moment and These are Rachel could use a digital camera. in a crowd. about our mother. you too must John Havir, Bonnie Havir and Camilla Gill things that I My admiration grew as we formed a The first time we met, Josh of- He began by referring to Proverbs feel and know tried to pass on friendship. See OF ALL THE HEROES, page 5 31 (which begins with “the words of that the time is right. So do work at it to all of you [two girls and two boys] King Lemuel, the utterance which his and be happy. and I truly hope I didn’t fail any of mother taught him”). My happiness and love have al- you. John noted the value of words that ways extended to my children. When Be kind and patient with one an- describe what a mother can teach her they are happy, I am happy. When other. Listen to what is being said, When you’re out and about on the Web, stop in at son. Then he proceeded to read a letter they are sad and having problems, I not what you think is being said. And our mother had given him at the time am sad and go through their problems just remember—love goes deeper of his marriage in 1988. (John married with them mentally. than sex. Bonnie Collins on Nov. 6, 1988.) [My mother-in-law] Gram [Havir] I guess I’ve said enough, although I TheJournal Following are excerpts from the was also like this, although she was a really am not able to convey my real News of the Churches of God letter. little more vociferous. thoughts and emotions on paper either. ______My Dad [James Harris] was also Give my love to Bonnie. We’re right where you’d expect us to be, at Dear John, this way. It’s a shame that you never Love, www.thejournal.org This is just a note to my son from got to know him. He raised five chil- Mom your mother who loves you very dren (four girls, no less) without a PS—BE HAPPY!!! 4 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Feast reports come from Colorado, the Ozarks, the Philippines ollowing is another Feast of the ladies joined me for afternoons of ma, California, Iowa and Wisconsin, The local church makes available, Mid-Missouri Church of God helped Tabernacles report, the third shopping and Starbucks. to name a few places. They came for free, many pamphlets as well as out, and I stored its piano in my room. F installment for the 2009 festi- We also drove through Garden of the spiritual renewal, especially since short-subject booklets on aspects On the Sabbath Carol Boyer came val. For information about the 2010 Gods and saw the “Kissing Camels” some of us are far from weekly ser- of the Bible. They are written by down. Ambrose Whaley got the piano festival, see the listing on page 27 of and the magnificent “Balanced Rock.” vices. Pastor Leger. They are concise and out of my room. this issue of THE JOURNAL. One chilly afternoon we went to This, then, gives us our rare or only informative. I ate a few times at the hotel restau- Seven Falls. Another day a large group time of the year to meet with like- This was a great Feast of Taber- rant, but mostly with the Boyers. Colorful Colorado Double Sabbath services were OLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.— in the Ozark Room, and that CAs Feastgoers arrived on Friday afternoon Alan Boyer gave the evening, Oct. 2, 2009, they were greet- sermon. ed at the Academy Hotel by a scrump- I went with the Boyers and tious spread prepared with lots of help Zak to the Charbroiled Steak- from my sister, Becky, who has lived house, an Italian restaurant, then in Colorado Springs with her family shopping. for almost three decades. I traveled to On Sunday were services by Colorado early so I would have time Gary Garrett on “seven steps to to visit with my sister. grace.” Then Carol, Alan and Colorado Springs—which must be Zak Boyer and I went to one of the most beautiful places on Bandannas Restaurant and to the earth—has many sights to offer includ- big mall north of the Grand ing Pikes Peak, Seven Falls, Cave of Glaize Bridge on Highway 54. the Winds, and Garden of the Gods. I got two boxes of candles for COLORADO SPRINGS—The brethren observe the Feast in Colorado, in this case at the site Ray and Peggy Wooten. We all The week before, the first of the in Colorado Springs sponsored by the Church of God Big Sandy. Left: Rick Marks of Felton, winter’s snowfall had dusted the Pa., and Summer Mouland of Phoenix, Ariz. Center: Andrew McIver of White Oak, Texas. went to an amusement park with peaks of the majestic Rocky Moun- Right: David Fisher of Pritchett, Texas, leads a group of fellow Feastgoers on Segways on a the Arnolds. Later we went to tains. The cool, clear weather was Colorado highway. [Photos by Neil McIver] their house. such a welcome change from the hot, On Monday was a sermon by humid Texas summer. rode the cog railway for an hour and a thinking Christians. nacles, 2009. My only complaint is Carol Boyer on the women’s confer- Although this was the first year at half up to Pikes Peak. The temperature All services and activities were that it was too short. Can you believe ence in Sevierville, Tenn. Alan gave the Colorado Springs site sponsored that morning had been 15 degrees below held at the Wine Country Inn, and only eight days? the blessing of the children. Alan, by the Church of God Big Sandy, a zero, but by the time we arrived it had most attendees lodged there. Facilities My wife, Colleen, and I were mem- Carol, Zak and I went to the Pasta good crowd of 90-120 attended ser- warmed to a toasty 5 degrees. We had and service were excellent. Daily de- bers of the WCG beginning in 1975. House, another Italian restaurant, and vices each day. dinner at the historic Stagecoach Inn in luxe breakfasts and wine tastings were For more than 30 years we traveled had Lambrusco wine. All the sites sponsored by the CGBS Manitou Springs on the way back. included. 220 miles round trip to North Platte, Then we went to He Ho Tonka read the same scriptures, giving many Later in the week we drove about The inn is surrounded by acres of Neb., to attend church each week from State Park, near Camdenton, and saw an opportunity to serve. old ruined buildings and the trout The most memorable scripture spring. reading for me was the day that my The ruins consisted of a castle, sta- husband, Neil, had asked youths to Colleen and I felt as though we were finally coming home, so bles and a Roman villa. Then we went participate. A young man, Emery, who to the trading post and bought trinkets, was only 7 or 8, did an outstanding job to speak, spiritually. It was a really good feeling. It’s good then to Outback Steakhouse with the of reading the scripture assigned to to be back. This Feast put the icing on the cake. Arnolds again. him. Tuesday morning was a discussion All of the music at the Feast was during which we sat around in circles. wonderful. Ray Marks and Rex Ja- 80 miles to the Royal Gorge. By the vineyards as well as Colorado’s our home in Holyoke, Colo. Then we all had a church picnic at merson shared the song-leading du- time we arrived there it was snowing famous peach and other fruit orchards. We now have no church closer than Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Osage ties, with Sandy Marks, Christine huge, beautiful flakes. Some of our This is at Palisade, just 10 miles from about 175 miles (we no longer attend Beach. Jamerson and Rick Marks accompa- group rode the tram across the gorge, the business and shopping the WCG). We There were hamburgers, hot dogs, nying and playing special music. and then we warmed up by visiting center of Grand Junction, rarely attend ser- salad, chips and juices. A big fire was Special music included piano and Holy Cross Winery before driving all in the Colorado River vices except when built, since it was chilly, and we had trumpet selections by Rick Marks and back to Colorado Springs. Valley of the western part we visit our two chili as well. vocal selections by Rick, Christen Memorable dinners also included of the state. sons at Hawkins, We went shopping again (for what- Allums, Summer Mouland and sever- Greek food at Jake and Telly’s, Ger- This is an area of great Texas, during the ever your soul lusted after). al others, as well as piano selections man food at Edelweiss and exotic and varied scenic beauty, winter. Wednesday I washed my clothes by Christine Jamerson, vocal and gui- game at the Craftwood Inn. with close and far-off vis- I’m a long-time and caught up on my sleep. I shared tar selections by Rex Jamerson and There were so many wonderful tas. Many scenic sites are farmer-rancher my soap because it cost 75 cents for a flute selections by Jody Kirkpatrick. things to do and fabulous meals—and close, and without the high and former voca- small box. Pastor Dave Havir began the Feast I am sure I have forgotten to mention Rocky Mountain eleva- tional-agriculture Ray and Peggy Wooten came from with a wonderful sermon about how some important things—but the thing tions. teacher. I have Sevierville and asked if I wanted to go we would handle our lives if we knew that really stands out the most for me Directly north of the been in ag sales, a to Wes and Nancy White’s house on we were near the end of our time on about this Feast had to be the special facilities is the palisade farmers’ home- the lake in Four Seasons, off Highway this earth. people I was fortunate to get to know. wall of the Bookcliff Moun- loan rep and pack- HH. We had a luscious meal. Then Sermons throughout the week were Memories of places and tastes of tains. The 10,000-foot pla- er-buyer of cattle Ray preached the sermon Wednesday presented by Neil McIver, Brett Ebright, foods will pale and fade over time, but teau of the Grand Mesa Dale Atteberry and sheep. night on three aspects of sin: penalty, Joe Kirkpatrick, Dan Vandivier, Ray the friendships formed during this dominates the views to the We don’t live guilt and blame. Stapp and Bernie Monsalvo. special week will endure for a long, southeast of an area with on the edge of the Buckaroo Bob performed during For Neil’s sermon, Rick helped long time. some 300 pristine lakes just a half world, but with a strong arm you can services. Buckaroo Bob and the Whites’ Neil present God’s plan for mankind Neil and I were blessed to be able to hour away by car. throw a rock over the side. Dale other puppets also performed before through Scripture and music. serve as coordinators for Colorado The Colorado National Monument Atteberry, Holyoke, Colo. services on Thursday. Springs. We are honored and humbled is a half hour to the west, and popular Something else happened Wednes- The congregation, from ideas pre- Feast in the Ozarks sented by Terry Ebright, undertook by the wonderful group of brethren Glenwood Springs, with its historic day night. Someone put about 50 or so two service projects. One utilized the who attended this Feast with us. hot springs and many other attractions, AKE OZARK, Mo.—We ob- Bott Network magazines on the table extra hotel-sized soaps and shampoos Martha McIver, White Oak, Texas. is within an hour’s drive to the east. Lserved the 2009 Feast of Taber- over some of our literature. I asked A group of us hiked to a mica mine nacles Oct. 2-9, 2009, and the eighth about throwing them away. On the by bagging those items along with a Only eight days card to the recipient that noted Num- back in some great scenic canyons day on the Sabbath of Oct. 10. back they had a stamp of a Sunrise bers 6:24-26. RAND JUNCTION, Colo.—The one afternoon and took some cliff Services were held in the Ozark Beach Community Church. Terry took the bags to a local shel- GChristian Church of God (CCG) hikes another day. Room of the Port Arrowhead Lodge at I was told they were trash and ter for abused women. of Grand Junction celebrated its 10- On our free day we took a tour bus Lake Ozark. threw them away and put some trash The other project was to take a col- year anniversary of the Feast of to Glenwood Springs, where several Friday evening was a get-together on top of them. One article talked lection for Care and Share, which is Tabernacles in 2009. fun options awaited us. There were about Grandma going the food bank for southern Colorado. This was my wife Colleen’s and my river rafting, a cable tramway to the up to heaven when she A representative from Care and Share seventh year of attendance there. Al- top of a mountain where we could do died. Ray Wooten came to accept the funds and to tell us though each year has been great, this an alpine slide down, a tour of Glen- thanked me for throw- about some of the programs the really was a special Feast of Taber- wood Caverns and much more. ing them away. money would help. nacles for us. Of course, the Glenwood Springs Thursday was a ser- According to Mr. Rice, we raised Since the Worldwide Church of Pool offered swimming in the hot mon by Wes White enough money to provide more than God’s changes, we have had doubts, mineral waters. about the family of God 10,000 meals for the food bank. some indecision, questions and “What (By the way, the famous gunman and working together. The activities planned for the week do we do now?” times. Praying, Doc Holiday is buried at Glenwood.) The children’s choir included an evening ice-cream social studying and asking God’s help, wis- Another day we enjoyed a senior performed. and family fun show. This was a great dom and understanding, we finally banquet. This, along with the tour bus, Then I went to opportunity to share talents and lots of seemed to start to come together in was provided as a gift of the CCG. It Ritzo’s Italian Restau- fun. late summer and fall. was very generous and much appreci- rant with Ray and Peg- My sister and her husband hosted The Feast sermons just seemed to ated. gy Wooten and paid for breakfast one morning for the Big finalize and solidify many things for We also enjoyed a dress-up dinner TALENT SHOW—Performers show their skills at the tal- their meal. Another ent show during the Feast of Tabernacles in October 2009 Sandy group. us, beginning with Pastor Del Leger’s and dance one night and in the begin- at Lake Ozark, Mo. [Photo by Larry Graff] couple, possibly the The kids and teens (and dads) en- opening sermon and continuing with ning of the week a get-acquainted Houstons, went. Then joyed an afternoon at Mr. Biggs’ place each speaker. All were very good. social. A good time was had by all on we took Peggy to the with laser tag and all kinds of other Colleen and I felt as though we every occasion. dinner of hors d’oeuvres. After that women’s luncheon in Eldon, and Ray activities. On another afternoon a were finally coming home, so to As already mentioned, this was an was over, Alan Boyer hadn’t gotten and I got a shake. group enjoyed learning to drive Seg- speak, spiritually. It was a really good excellent spiritual Feast with a great any of it, so we went to the bar and I Thursday night was the talent show. ways on a beautiful ride through feeling. It’s good to be back. This interactive Bible study. There were had more. I rode the Amtrak down Roger Day sang. His grandfather was Garden of the Gods. Feast put the icing on the cake. group and one-on-one discussions, there from Kirkwood to Jefferson City. editor of The Bible Advocate. While the men and boys were en- Feastgoers were from Colorado, along with good fellowship. The Feast site was sponsored by I blew the ramshorn. Ray Wooten gaged in those endeavors, several of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Oklaho- Inspiring? You better believe it. United Christian Ministries, but the See CHURCH OF GOD, page 5 Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) THE JOURNAL 5 Essay What is the one genuine sign we’re in the final end time?

Mr. Knight graduated from the Jesus, however, laid out a different actually exist prominent, easily identi- other gods worshiped on the face of “above” all other gods and objects of University of the Americas in Mexico approach to understanding this sub- fiable signs on which we can rely? the earth (verse 4). worship. City with a degree in archaeology. In ject. In the Gospel accounts of His We find this same individual de- his undergraduate as well as post- earthly ministry, He specifically warns The lawless one scribed in another Bible passage, in Practical clue graduate studies at Columbia Univer- against these same people who cite The apostle Paul addresses this in 2 Daniel 11. Speaking of the final “king As we draw to the close of this first sity in New York, he specialized in an- war and natural disasters to claim the Thessalonians 2:2-4. Here, once again, of the north,” Daniel says that that part of a series based on Spirit of cient religious history. This essay is end has arrived. we are cautioned against preyers on king “shall exalt himself and consider Antichrist, we are just getting started. based on his recently revised book In Matthew 24, when someone people’s fears: himself greater than any god . . . He Once we understand that Daniel, 2 Spirit of Antichrist. asked Him what were the signs of the Do not be “shaken in mind or shall pay no respect to any other god, Thessalonians and Revelation are all end of the age, Jesus first warned: alarmed,” he advises, that “the day of for he shall consider himself greater talking about the same thing, we un- By Alan Knight “Beware that no one leads you astray the Lord is already here. Let no one than all” (verses 36-37). cover a treasure of additional clues YNNWOOD, Wash.—In this ... You will hear of wars and rumors deceive you . . . for that day will not Notice that the two men, as cited in related to the final end times. article we look at the issue of This involves the special signifi- Lwhat signs truly indicate when cance of John’s prophecies in Revela- we have entered the final period called tion 17, including the mysterious the “end time.” The end is upon us—again. It’s nothing new. Once again seven kings and an eighth king who The end is upon us—again. It’s “was and is not” whom John said will nothing new. Once again people are people are telling us the final era of human history be revived to live again. telling us the final era of human his- known as the end time is fast upon us. Is this talking about the supernatur- tory known as the end time is fast al resurrection of an ancient king, as upon us. If only some believe? Or is it a much more we pledge our of wars; see that you are not alarmed come unless the rebellion comes first 2 Thessalonians 2 and Daniel 11, make practical clue that shows us how to loyalty and mon- ... [for] the end is not yet . . . There and the lawless one is revealed.” the same claim. accurately identify who this great end- ey to them, they will be famines and earthquakes in var- The lawless one “exalts himself time religious dictator will be? will safely guide ious places: all this is but the begin- above every so-called god or object of Understand Daniel and Paul Is he a secular king ruling over a us through these ning of the birthpangs” (verses 4-8). worship, so that he takes his seat in the Then consider another description revived Roman Empire? Or a purely terrible times. temple of God, declaring himself to be of this same end-time figure in Reve- religious figure? Or both? This and They typical- Tragedies aren’t the signal God.” lation 17. Here he is referred to as the much more we will begin to examine ly offer a com- If you and I are caught in the midst This description is of a great reli- “beast.” in our next installment of this series. pelling interpre- of a war, or a hurricane flattens our gious dictator, sometimes referred to This is the same final Antichrist tation of natural home, or an ugly recession throws us as Antichrist, who traditionally is as- who fights against Christ whom Christ Share your ideas Alan Knight disasters and po- out of work and the bank forecloses sociated with the very end. destroys at the Second Coming (Reve- Who do you think will be this final, litical events that on our house and we are forced onto In verse 8 he is described as being lation 17:13-14; 19:19-21). end-time dictator whose rise signals “prove” the final stages of the end the street, it indeed can seem like the destroyed by Christ at his return. Notice Christ’s destruction of the start of the final end-time? Please time are underway. world is coming to an end. According to Paul, it is this person’s Paul’s great end-time religious leader write letters of 300 words or less to From 9-11 and the war on terror to But those are only the ongoing nat- rise to world dominance that is the sin- described in 2 Thessalonians 2:8 and THE JOURNAL ([email protected] or earthquakes and natural disasters, we ural results of a world that has turned gle most prominent event to which we John’s beast. P.O. Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas are frightened into thinking this is it. its back on God. As painful as they should look as a sign of the end times. We must conclude that Daniel, 2 75755, U.S.A.) to share your ideas. Get on board or be left behind! might be, such things happen repeat- Thessalonians and Revelation are all ______edly and routinely in our world. His claim of divinity talking about the same person. The information in this series is Beware of fearmongers As Jesus specifically explained, But how can we know for certain From all this we understand that the highlights of the new 512-page second Many self-appointed prophets and tragedies of that sort do not signal the when this will happen? Bible inter- primary sign of the final end times is edition of Spirit of Antichrist. Order other religious leaders say they have imminent end of the age. We should preters are all over the map on this. the appearance of a great religious copies of this paperback volume, with the key to unlock the secrets of the end not let them so severely frighten us Whom should we trust? leader who claims to be a divine a list price of $24.95, directly from the time. Some claim to be Elijah, others that we get involved with false teach- Fortunately, the Bible does not being. author for a limited time for $12 plus the two witnesses. ers who use fear to create a following leave us guessing. The great end-time This is no obscure event, for he $3 shipping. Send check or money Nearly all are fearmongers. They typi- for themselves. religious dictator is mentioned in other rises to a position of dominance over order to Alan Knight, 3629 206th cally point to natural disasters and eco- But the question remains: If those passages of prophecy, from Daniel to all religions on earth. Place SW, Lynnwood, Wash. 98036, nomic problems as signs of the end are not the right signs, then what are Revelation. Notice in 2 Thessalonians This last trait is based on our under- U.S.A. Or contact Mr. Knight at time, preying on suffering and fear to the true signs of Christ’s imminent 2 his most prominent trait, his claim to standing of Daniel’s and Paul’s de- [email protected] or (925) attract a following. return and the end of the age? Do there be divine. He raises himself above all scription of how he positions himself 352-6876. Church of God International has two sites in the Philippines Continued from page 4 We stopped at Stewart’s on the way Sermons were by local ministers es and singing (Bayanihan nights), country is the priestly blessing of the sang. Wes White played the guitar and at Lake Ozarks. I had coffee, hash who spoke on traditional Feast topics. along with humorous skits. church as instructed by Moses in sang “Rotte,” a song also sung by the browns, steak and two hard-boiled A presentation was made on the Noticeable was the high standard of Numbers 6:22-27, which includes the Rolling Stones. eggs and a roll. work in the Philippines and plans to singing and the choirs. following words: Friday was a sermon by Roger Day. So that ends the festival season. preach the gospel. The family night featured a fatted “The LORD bless you and keep you; Then the Gieselmans, others and I Larry Graff, House Springs, Mo. The CGI organization in the Philip- calf cooked on a spit roast. the LORD make His face shine upon pines is financed from within the Wet weather prevented some out- you, and be gracious to you; the LORD went to a Chili’s restaurant. The Dod- The Lord bless you and keep you gers beat the Cardinals. country and does not receive support door activities but did not dampen the lift up His countenance upon you, and The Last Great Day was a double AGAYTAY, Philippines—The from the CGI in the U.S.A. spirit of the Feast. give you peace.” Sabbath. The sermon was by Ray TChurch of God International held One local CGI initiative has been The venue had excellent facilities Though this tradition is not practiced Wooten on the theme of the Bible its Feast again in 2009 in Tagaytay, a the publication of a new booklet, for dining and other activities. High- by most COG groups today, it is a (Genesis 1:26). Afterwards a bunch of resort area 34 miles south of Manila. Christians at Work. Written by Win- lights were sermons titled “The Wed- teaching that the members of the CGI us went to Bandannas for a meal. I did The CGI had two Feast sites in the ston Co, CGI minister in Manila, it ding of the Lamb,” “Fearfully and appreciate having the ministry conduct. some crying. Philippines. The second was on the intends to help Christians become bet- Wonderfully Made” and “The Incred- For those who would like to attend Sunday I went to St. Charles, Mo., island of Mindanao. ter employees and managers in the ible Human Body,” Bible studies on the Feast in the Philippines next year, with Ray and Peggy. At Kingdom City About 220 attended at Tagaytay, workplace. tithing and qualities of good teachers, we encourage you to consider the CGI Satan made them have a flat tire. I coming from all over the island of Church activities at the Feast in- and other Feast-related topics. Feast at Tagaytay City. Bruce Por- gave them a pumpkin. Luzon and farther south. cluded two evenings of cultural danc- Another tradition at the Feast in this teous, [email protected]. Of all the heroes I’ve met since his birth, Ryan is the greatest Continued from page 3 now, and the quiet goodness, determi- now plays actively with her sister and Ryan. I watch him listen and learn on when I told him good-bye on that day. fered me not a serving of pretzels but nation and courage of these friends friends. Natalee has such a gentle spir- a daily basis, and he inspires me to do Somehow I sensed he was communi- the entire unopened family-size bag! bring me peace. it and shares her toys readily. Sweet the same. I once listened to him recite cating to me that I’d be back. Josh’s parents emphasized appropriate Kate wasn’t fazed by her recent heart Psalm 23 at the behavior as he grew into adulthood, Meet some more friends surgery. church my dad pas- I can understand which makes him a true delight and When Alex was introduced to us, Blessed stillness in my heart has tors, holding a big It hurts to look back on that terrible joy to be around. she was prompted to count in Spanish; replaced so many fears I once clung to microphone and afternoon when I considered taking Thanks to him, my desperately. bringing the audi- my own life. husband and I have a Other heroes ence to tears. But at the same time I’m amazing- clearer understanding It hurts to look back on that terrible afternoon when I include people I Recently I lis- ly grateful and humbled to have expe- of how we want to have not met in tened to his in- rienced a pain and heartache so great raise our son. considered taking my own life. Now I understand when person but who sightful thoughts that I can understand when another My other heroes in- another mom says, “I don’t know how to do this.” have had a pow- on the world econ- mom says, “I don’t know how to do clude the individuals erful impact on omy: this.” and families in the my life. “All these peo- When I meet such parents in my Down-syndrome community we’ve she was only 4 years old! Dylan came The writers of Gifts, Volume I, pro- ple. It’s a big mess. local area, I offer them a complimen- met since Ryan’s birth six years ago. I through his open-heart surgery as a pelled me to greater heights in my Eat oatmeal.” tary Gifts, Volume I from our East used to fear their company, thinking I newborn and is thriving in school wonderful journey with Ryan. Texas Down Syndrome Group and would break down and cry. The sight now. Alexis is the little princess and On the last page of the book Jennifer My greatest hero hope they will meet some of their own of another family reminded me of the pride of her family. Kirsten reminds us Groneberg writes: “He is the child that Of all the he- Ryan Bailey heroes within its pages. uncertainties and challenges we were that life is fragile and moves her par- I wanted, that I did not know I wanted. roes I’ve met since Then I think of Ryan, and I thank facing that somehow made it harder to ents on to greater purpose. He is my son.” I echo those words. his birth, Ryan is my greatest hero. God for this boy, this challenge and cope at first. Allison recovered from leukemia Thanks to my heroes I no longer I can still see those dark newborn this joy that surpasses any experience Tears of joy are more often the case treatments at a very young age and doubt my ability to love and care for eyes that sweetly gazed into mine I’ve ever known. 6 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Abrahamic Faith biblical except for a major misunderstanding

Mr. Mokarow was director of the ham in the Torah, clearly did not begin promise to Abraham. God Almighty, the one true God because He fulfilled the works David ministry and served in many other with Moses. In Genesis 15:1-21 God tells Abra- (Ephesians 1). Psalms claims God is said must take place to enter God’s capacities in the Worldwide Church of The Old Covenant was made only ham that because he obeyed God and the property owner of the earth, and holy house. God. He is president of the Associ- with Israel (Deuteronomy 5:3). The left Ur of the Chaldees God would He created everyone in it. The proof that Jesus is the Messiah ation for Biblical Research and the fathers of Israel were not under this give him a legal son. God lives on top of a high hill in a is that He did the works of Psalm 24:5, author of more than 40 books. Read covenant, nor were they under the holy place, His house and temple. making Him the true Messiah, or about Mr. Mokarow’s participation in Aaronic priesthood, administered by Two Abrahamic promises Who can ascend this hill and enter Savior, because He did everything to a historic debate in February 2010 Levi with Moses as the head. God gave Abraham Isaac, who God’s holy house? enter and reside in the house of God, beginning on page 1 of this issue of would become a nation. However, the Psalm 24:5 declares that only the holy temple. Points well covered THE JOURNAL. nation of Isaac would suffer in slavery those with clean hands He is the Anointed One because He The contents of Dr. Tabor’s book for 400 years until the sin of the and pure hearts loves righteousness and sought only By Art Mokarow are not only biblically accurate but, Amorites in Canaan was fulfilled. peace, which made Him of the order ONTGOMERY, Texas—Dr. ironically, assist in proving Jesus is the Then God would lead this na- of the priesthood of Melchizedek James D. Tabor, chairman of Messiah. tion, named Israel, to the (which saves). M the department of religious Dr. Tabor’s first chapter documents Promised Land. When did Jesus know He was the studies at the University of North the one true God. The proof of one God made a covenant with Messiah? Carolina at Char- God, JHVH, the Elohim, is absolute. Abraham at that time covering Luke 2:40 declares: “And the lotte, has written There are not two gods or three gods only the Promised Land. God child grew, and waxed strong in one of the best existing before the birth of Jesus. made another covenant with spirit, filled with wisdom: and the books about the The Way, or Torah, speaks for Abraham to give the blessings of grace of God was upon him.” “Abrahamic itself. The Torah is not the law. The eternal life. faith” I have ever Torah is a teaching, a path or the way As reported in Genesis 17:1-13, When Jesus was a boy read. (to Christ) and is undeniable. God sealed His covenant with Abra- As a boy, He grew to realize It is Restoring The law of Moses did not become ham, when Abraham was 90 years He was the Messiah from what Abrahamic Faith, the Old Covenant law until added as old, with the required circumcision of His mother told Him and available in trade- the book of Deuteronomy 430 years every male child. because of His growth in wis- paperback format after Abraham. This covenant with Israel is forever, dom and the knowledge of from Genesis 2000 Art Mokarow The Torah was taking place (from eternal. God changed Abram’s name what He was doing. Press, Charlotte, N.C. creation to Moses) 1,500 years before to Abraham because he was to be a We know that when He I couldn’t disagree with any of the Moses and the law that was added. father of many nations. was 12 years old, He (during book according to my biblical and That 1,500 years of history substan- Those nations were to come out of an experience similar to a scriptural understanding. Never have I tially predated the law and Moses. Abraham (not just Israel), and these bar mitzvah) knew He was read such a biblical book about the All this is well covered in Dr. nations would have kings come from the first-begotten Son of Abrahamic faith and God’s plan. Tabor’s book. Abraham. God. When He was supposed- The Commandments, statutes and ly lost and was talking to the temple Precise and accurate Torah were kept by faith, or trust in Everlasting possession (godly leaders He told His parents they should Dr. Tabor’s flow of the Torah is pre- God’s voice (Genesis 26:5). The land of Canaan was to be an motives) who have have known He would be about His cise and accurate. His notes on the lost everlasting possession of descendants not spent their lives in vain Father’s business (Luke 2:42-49). 10 tribes of Israel, scattered in all the Gospel was known before NT of Abraham, and JHVH was to be and greedy pursuits. They must be The proof of His messiahship is His world, are biblically solid. Dr. Tabor’s third chapter, on God’s their God. This is included in the first dependable, not living a lie. life on earth. It fulfilled the demands Abraham kept the Commandments, plan, on how God fulfills His purpose, promise made to Abraham, which The clean and pure receive bless- of the Gospel preached by King statues and Torah through faith under is right on but misses the previous included Israel as God’s people by cir- ings of God—all that God is, has and David. the Melchizedek priesthood. How- 1,500 years as if the gospel was not cumcision. can be, the JHVH—as well as God’s Gnostic books state Jesus survived ever, Israel under Levi, having a known. We will deal with this short- Now we’ll move on to God’s sec- salvation, His eternity. His death and lived out His life on wrong heart, could not keep the Com- coming later. ond promise to Abraham, after Abra- Psalm 24 concludes with God’s earth. mandments by faith. The Israelites The book’s understanding of many ham showed his willingness to sac- glory, which is His goodness. The notion of Mary becoming were carnal, stiff-necked. When they pregnant by a centurion has to be broke Commandments their penalty viewed as false because Jesus did the was sacrifices (works), which were works of His Father, and the fact that only a reminder that they had sinned. Jesus did the works of His Father, and the fact God is Jesus’ Father proves His messi- God wanted them to keep the Com- ahship. mandments in their hearts so they that God is Jesus’ Father proves His messiahship. Jesus fulfilled the demands of the wouldn’t think of sinning (Deuter- second Abrahamic promise of Abra- onomy 5:29). ham’s seed. Too many theologians isolate a few messiahs is absolutely correct. Joshua, rifice Isaac to God. What was God’s God, then, will dwell with those Deuteronomy 18 also reveals the countries in which the tribes are sup- Yashua in Hebrew, is a savior. Also, as second promise to Abraham? who are tsedeq (Strong’s No. 6664), identity of the prophet, who would posed to have settled. pointed out by the book, even Cyrus, a When the angel of the Lord pre- righteous, the godly ones in His holy speak only God’s words and complete The law is never done away with gentile king, was a savior, or messiah. vented Abraham from slaying Isaac, temple house. Christians will be in the will of God. Fulfilling this prophe- but changed with the priesthood from The Bible is filled with many mes- here is what the angel said: God’s rest, His paradise. cy makes Jesus God’s Son. revealing what sin is to changing a siahs, as Dr. Tabor proves. Even his “By myself have I sworn, saith the His works show him to be the first- Christ was the first Christian’s heart and mind. final chapter—on turning to God, the LORD, for because you have done this begotten Son of God, the Christ. The Old Covenant, the Old Testa- one true God, JHVH—is scripturally thing [been willing to sacrifice Isaac] Christ was the first to fulfill the He is the Savior, the Anointed One. ment, tells you right from wrong, correct and unique. It shows that hu- and have not withheld your son, your requirement to live by every word of He was completely different from whereas the New Covenant, the New manity as a whole doesn’t know that only son: God and follow God’s will in faith. other biblical saviors, as Dr. Tabor Testament, changes your nature. the one real Father and true God is “That in blessing I will bless you, Christ became the Messiah because writes, in that His works didn’t lead JHVH. Getting to know the true God and in multiplying I will multiply your He was the first to fulfill the require- into the Promised Land like Joshua’s What if Dr. Tabor is wrong? seed as the stars of the heaven, and as ment. or Cyrus’s. Rather than giving details of the the sand which is upon the sea shore; This Messiah, Jesus, therefore is He will be followed by many others book, which every student of God’s and your seed shall possess the gate different from any other savior Dr. who are doing the same works as Word should read, my intention here [rulership] of his enemies. Tabor writes about. Christ. is to present my point of view on why “And in your seed shall all the na- Joshua was a savior to take Israel Jesus is the Messiah and the Anointed tions of the earth be blessed: because into the Promised Land. Cyrus the The first promise High Priest, Melchizedek. you have obeyed my voice” (Genesis Mede was a savior to Judah through Dr. Tabor’s book Restoring Abra- My purpose is to focus on Dr. 22:15-18). his desire to restore the temple. hamic Faith has completed the first Tabor’s belief that the Old Testament This is a second promise to Abra- What kind of savior is the coming promise given to Abraham and is fac- Scriptures do not point to Jesus as ham based upon his faith of always Messiah of Judaism, Islam and Chris- tual and should be read. Messiah. obeying God’s voice, the Word of God. tianity? King David in Psalm 24 is Missing in the book, however, is Dr. Tabor tells me of the great re- quite clear. the second half of Abraham’s promise spect and love he has for Jesus. If he is Abraham’s faith, not works The Messiah will have a clean heart through faith after he offered Isaac for proven wrong about Jesus, he is sure Circumcision is not part of this sec- and clean hand and will not be vain a sacrifice: the blessing of the prom- Jesus will forgive him. ond promise. This agreement is predi- and will not lie. That is how you know ised seed, the Messiah, who was Even Muslims believe Jesus was a cated upon Abraham’s faith and not on Jesus is the true Messiah. Christ blessing all nations. great prophet, but not the Messiah. THE AUTHOR—James Tabor, who his works. This is a prophecy that this That is exactly what Jesus said wrote Restoring Abrahamic Faith, is How to order The Jews themselves had Jesus cruci- shown here attending the Society of Messiah, the Savior, will bless the proves He is the Messiah. fied. Biblical Literature meeting in San whole world. Jesus is the Author, the firstborn Restoring Abraham Faith is avail- Very aptly and correctly, Dr. Ta- Diego, Calif., in 2007. See Art Mo- This Messiah is unique from all the Son of God. Because of the life He able for $15 (plus, for one to four bor’s major chapters cover significant karow’s review of Dr. Tabor’s book be- others in that this Savior comes from lived, He is like God. copies, $5 shipping to U.S. addresses truth concerning the significance of ginning at the top of this page. [Photo the bosom, or lineage, of Abraham Jesus said: “Believe me that I am in or $12 shipping to non-U.S. address- the one true God and His great plan. by Ken Westby] because of Abraham’s faith and not by the Father, and the Father in me: or es), with bulk pricing available on re- Mostly my analysis picks up Dr. circumcision and a human genealogy else believe me for the very works’ quest, from genesis2000.org. Tabor’s scriptural research and tries to as the first promise. sake” (John 14:11). Or mail a check payable to Genesis supply what I find missing or incom- is vital. These biblical truths are This Savior, or Messiah, is special- King David describes who can 2000 to 2124 Crown Centre Dr., Suite plete. I hope my findings, in a manner proven by Dr. Tabor’s book. ly based upon faith and not the works enter God’s holy house and what kind 200, Charlotte, N.C. 28227, U.S.A. that is biblically detailed, can enlarge There is nothing that I would call of the law or any other human works. of works such a one must do. For more information write Genesis the scope of Dr. Tabor’s writings “biblically stated” that isn’t scriptural- 2000 Press at [email protected]. about the Abrahamic faith. ly proven in the book. My method is The gospel of King David Dr. Tabor loves Jesus ______to analyze what is missing. The truth This promise given to Abraham is Interestingly, Dr. Tabor loves Jesus For another review of James Ta- Incomplete covenant can be biblically proven and accurate. different from the first promise, which because of His works on earth. And bor’s book Restoring Abrahamic Faith, In my analysis the book Restoring We need to analyze what came prior to mandated circumcision. Who can this even the Muslims accept Jesus as a see “Reviewer Loves New Book but Abrahamic Faith is scripturally accu- Moses in the Torah and especially the Messiah be? prophet of God because of His works, Doesn’t Entirely Agree” by Ken rate but not complete. The Abrahamic Prophets. Psalms in its entirely preaches the His life. Westby in issue No. 132 of THE JOUR- covenant, God’s covenant with Abra- Dr. Tabor clearly relates the first full gospel, which is predestined by Jesus is the first Son of God NAL, dated September-December 2008. Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) THE JOURNAL 7 Essay What Sabbatarian Christians need are successful macroministries

The writer operates a nondenomi- Need of better discipline. There we, by His Spirit in us, can deal with Resourceful travelers Me is against Me, and he who does national Sabbatarian Christian com- have been many questionable busi- them. Central way to deal with itiner- not gather with Me scatters abroad.” munity, the Port Austin Bible Campus, ness deals, marital problems and other The second of the two sayings P.O. Box 474, Port Austin, Mich. Problems with prophecy ant predators. Today, when someone came in Mark 9:38-42 after John com- issues that are contrary to the Scrip- briefly attends a congregation and 48467, U.S.A., phone (989) 738-7700, tures, and often a public disgrace, that Prophetic-honesty forum. The plained to Jesus that “we saw someone [email protected]. He also biggest problem with Christian proph- deceitfully attempts to obtain financial who does not follow us casting out are never resolved. assistance, marriage or targets for a publishes the newsletter Servants’ Predators among us. Some peo- ecy is that most prophetic interpreters demons in Your name, and we forbade News. See servantsnews.com. correlate some scriptures with past bad business deal, he is found out him because he does not follow us.” ple traverse independent and corpo- eventually, but then he often moves on rate congregations seeking financial historic events, then correlate other Jesus replied to John: “He who is By Norman Edwards scriptures with future events, making to a new congregation to repeat a sim- not against us is on our side. For who- handouts, quick marriages, business ilar scheme there. ORT AUSTIN, Mich.—I re- deals, etc. predictions of event sequences, dates ever gives you a cup of water to drink cently encouraged a well-re- This writer knows of people who and times. The independent macroministry in My name, because you belong to spected nondenominational Sab- have received financial assistance for If their predictions do not come to would maintain a confidential file of Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will P serious complaints from church con- batarian leader to consider starting a the same “need” from five congre- pass, they simply publish a new ver- by no means lose his reward.” ministry. He replied there are many in- gations or brethren at the same time. sion of their work. gregations and individuals. It would In Matthew 12 our Messiah is judg- dependent Sab- Similarly, those who claim to be not be made public. No action would ing the others as having done the scat- batarian minis- Problems maintaining prophets—who claim to hear from the be taken until two or three complaints tering. In the preceding verses, it is tries, so why start Pioneers in small congregations Eternal now—frequently replace their about the same person were received. clear that the Pharisees were deliber- another one? and ministries are often excited about old, failed revelations with new ones. When that happened, macromin- ately slandering Him, saying He was Why do we producing literature, directories and This forum will provide a place to istry would contact the person whom casting out demons by the prince of need what I refer other tools for the brethren. record prophetic teachings where they the complaints were about. He would demons. Later verses show the Eternal to in this article But the person who begins such will not be altered and where others have a chance to refute the informa- will judge them for the evil they do. as a Sabbatarian projects can often be the same person can comment on whether their teach- tion or use the church court (see the But Mark 9:38-42 deals with the macroministry? who moves on to a new projects as ings have come to pass. above) to resolve the issue. issue of how we disciples evaluate A macromin- If he refused resolution, or if the others claiming to serve the Eternal. soon as the last one is started. Plausible E-mails istry is a ministry So literature becomes dated, and church court decided against him, his Apparently, these others were being that operates on a Norman Edwards obsolete directories go three, five or True news summaries. Unfortu- name and offenses would be pub- effective. The passage does not say large geographic 10 years without corrections. nately, nearly all news in mainstream lished for the benefit of other congre- they were trying to cast out demons scale: regional, national or even glob- A ministry that serves a large group news sources is written to satisfy the gations. but that they were actually doing it. He al. “Macro” does not refer to a min- of people is more likely to be able to agenda of the few organizations that Implementing this would be a bet- notes that those doing works in His istry with many people. The number provide a pool of people with enough own it. In general, most people have ter system than the hierarchical church name will not speak evil of Him. of people in a macroministry would no idea who decides what is said on and the independent congregations diversity of skills to maintain projects Groups to promote probably be small in comparison to such as literature and directories. their TV news or what appears in the have now. As things stand, hierarchi- the congregations and other ministries Here are some specific suggestions mainstream press. cal groups usually disfellowship a While the macroministry should it seeks to serve. for macroministries: Similarly, the alternative media are predator after the first offense. But, avoid condemning others as unbeliev- So here it is: a plan for a ministry to also frequently full of inaccuracies to when a person is unjustly accused, he ers, that does not mean it needs to pro- serve many nondenominational Sab- Credit where due serve certain groups’ agendas or simply is often disfellowshipped too, without mote and include every group and in- bath-keepers without becoming an- Provide a directory of other make alternative media untrustworthy. a chance of having his case heard. dividual who claims to be a Christian. other denomination or church organi- groups’ literature. This would involve How many E-mails have you re- In independent groups, usually This ministry is specifically de- zation. a Web site and annual printed list of ceived that sounded plausible but later nothing is done, though sometimes a signed to help nondenominational be- proved to be untrue? Somebody sat congregation will post a complaint in lievers who observe the seventh-day Its purpose Bible-based literature: publications as well as printed, audio, video and down and deliberately wrote those its publication or on its Web site. Sabbath. Generally, the groups are The purpose of a Sabbatarian mac- Internet resources. things, knowing they were lies, yet A central place to deal with itinerant small and scattered, and they would roministry is to provide services to Just because a small ministry pro- hoped to achieve their ends by lying. predators and a church court to deal most greatly benefit by the services congregations, members and other duces a good book on baptism, for Of great value to believers would with cases would provide a scriptural this ministry would provide. ministries they cannot reasonably and example, does not mean it has to sup- be someone to sift through to find the means of solving problems that is not Nevertheless, there are Sunday-ob- efficiently provide for themselves. ply unlimited free copies of them for important news and report the truth available in most Sabbatarian groups. serving groups that are the only ones This kind of ministry is action- every other ministry in the country. It about it (Ecclesiastes 2:14). involved in certain aspects of Chris- based. It is not based on doctrine or an Not everyone does computers tian work that may be of great benefit makes sense for ministries to give Order in the church organization. away single copies themselves and Print information from ministry to Sabbath-keepers. These aspects It is also not an ecumenical min- charge other ministries for bulk orders Church court. In multiple places Web sites for people who do not have involve Christian music, Bible transla- istry. It does not seek to governmen- that they will use in their evangelism. the Old Testament commands the peo- access to computers. tion, homeschooling, marriage coun- tally unite Sabbath-keeping groups. Provide basic literature. This ple to set up judges and tells people to The Internet provides a convenient seling, archaeology, history research, voluntarily bring their cases to them way to accomplish much of our missionary work, natural healing, Struggle for independents would also be included in the above directory, but it would be authored by (Deuteronomy 25:1). Father’s work, but it does not free us divine healing and many other areas. During the past few decades the members of the ministry to help fill The New Testament tells us to ei- from serving people who have no In- Some of these groups eagerly serve number of independent, Sabbath-ob- areas where the directory does not ther let a congregation judge a matter ternet access. Literature for the blind Sabbath-keepers. Others do not. The serving congregations has increased contain much on a particular subject. or appoint someone to judge it (Mat- and for those who do not speak En- Sabbatarian macroministry will not greatly. Brethren have grown adept at Directories of Sabbatarian con- thew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 6:1-11). glish is a secondary goal. promote these people’s Sunday obser- studying their Bibles and conducting gregations, Feast sites and activities. This writer knows of several breth- vance, nor recommend their congre- their own services. While many groups have started these ren who have had cases they would What about Amos 3:3? gations that meet on that day, but it But the groups are not doing as well over the years, few have been main- like to bring before an unbiased church How can people work together if will promote the good work they are at other things. Here are some of the doing that Sabbath-keepers are not. problems and challenges local inde- pendent Sabbath congregations face. Make a list A need to preserve and distrib- Independent seventh-day groups are frequently unaware There are other beliefs and prac- ute the best study. Independent min- of nearby groups with which they could share activities, tices of church groups and professed istries produce numerous audio believers this ministry should not pro- recordings and literature, much of it evangelism, service projects and other things of value. mote or work with. The following are helpful. But sifting through it to find examples: what is most helpful is difficult. They must accept both Old and A lack of a literature about basic tained over the long term, and none of court. Both parties would have come, they do not agree on what the Bible New Testaments of the Scriptures as doctrines. Many congregations do not them have moderated forums. but there was none to hear them. says? After all, can two walk together the Eternal’s inspired Word. While have printed, audio or video literature Scripture-notes forum. Produce This court would need standards of unless they are agreed? (Amos 3:3). prophetic sections certainly deal with to teach their young people or new- an Internet site on which Bible stu- procedure, assuring each party had the They can walk together if they are symbols and require inspired interpre- comers to the congregations. dents can look up any verse and con- chance to equally present his case and agreed on where they are going at a tation, everyone must accept that the A lack of applying the knowl- tribute notes about its meaning, histor- that none of the judges had any bias. certain time. There may be other times passages claiming to be literal ac- edge we have. Most congregations do ical connections and related scriptures. There would need to be means of where they have different paths— counts are literal accounts and that much more teaching and talking Opportunities-and-needs forum. making public written records so the maybe even different ways of getting those words claiming to be the words among themselves than serving and This is an Internet list of opportunities fairness of the court could be estab- to the same place—and during those of the Eternal are His words. teaching others. Part is a lack of de- and needs of Sabbatarian congrega- lished. The scriptural principles used times they cannot walk together. sire, part is a lack of know-how, and It is fine to believe there may be tions and believers. would need to be established and doc- Dealing with the diversity of beliefs some relatively minor manuscript and part is an assumption that they cannot umented. Opportunities would include jobs among believers is a much bigger translation errors. It is also acceptable do much that will matter. (nonmultilevel), apprenticeships, min- This court might be started on the problem than it was for believers in Lack of interaction with other istry and items that would be given Internet or by teleconference but would New Testament times. While they had to believe there are unevaluated ac- churches and groups. Independent away to someone with specific needs. eventually need to operate in person. false teachers, they also had apostles counts of men’s actions in the Bible seventh-day groups are frequently un- Needs would include more-specific Eventually there could be teams of who knew the truth. for which we are left to apply other aware of nearby groups with which they things than money, a vehicle, wheel- judges serving in regional areas. Today we must deal with 2,000 scriptures to determine their merit. could share activities, evangelism, ser- chair, certain kind of job. If the person ruled against refused years of sometimes uncertain copying There are also small parts that are vice projects and other things of value. Many seventh-day young people to follow the judges’ sentence, the and translation of the Scriptures and labeled as the writer’s speculation or Occasional combined meetings, want to leave home but would be main remedy would be to treat him as huge amounts of erroneous interpreta- opinion that we should accept as such. guest speakers or guest special music much better off if they moved out to a “heathen and a publican” in accor- tion and teaching of the Scriptures. But when people do not accept the can add interest in services. Also, live with or work for another believer dance with Matthew 18:17 until he This writer believes the handling of Bible as inspired, or when they think many are unaware of the free basic lit- rather than heading for a secular col- repented and heard “the church.” this difficult situation—brethren who they are more inspired than it is—that erature produced by others. lege dorm or an apartment with friends An appellate system would also are partially in agreement and wish to their own understanding may be supe- of uncertain character. need to be set up (Deuteronomy 17:8- work together—is utterly essential if rior to the apostles’ or other Bible Hard to predict Sabbatarians who own businesses 12). The judges should be chosen by the nondenominational, nonhierarchi- writers’—there is no good way to Unpredictability of congrega- or have an extra room in their homes election from a variety of groups. This cal congregations can ever accomplish work together because one does not tions. Many Sabbatarian congrega- could be of great service to young would not be a power trip; it would be any significant work. have the Scriptures to act as an arbiter tions provide a wonderful experience. brethren. a lot of hard work for not much thanks. between the two parties. Others can be cold and judgmental. Yes, some will try to take advan- Would this even work? Would any- An apparent contradiction They must worship only the Some talk primarily about a few pet tage of these opportunities and needs, body take the time to be a judge or The heart of the answer lies in two Eternal, the Deity of Scripture. Any doctrines or former church groups. just as there were those who wanted bring his case to this court? Is anyone sayings of Jesus, which I, formerly, and sincere pronunciation of His name in Others pressure first-time visitors to our Messiah to keep making free food serious about returning with Christ to others have viewed as contradictory: any language should be accepted, but join the group or a political move- for them (John 6:26). judge the world and the angels? (1 Co- The first of the two sayings is the worship of idols, angels, demons ment, or others prey on them. But He could deal with them, and rinthians 6:2-3; Jude 14-15). Matthew 12:30: “He who is not with See GOD TEACHES, page 26 8 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Waco negotiator reviews recent MSNBC program about Waco Continued from page 1 Both men show the sincere existen- that the FBI failed. But he also says urday and earlier on Sunday the 18th, to me and other theologians on Lamb of Revelation who could inter- tial commitment the Davidians had David manipulated and should be in we know that Steve says he had seen March 15, instead of denying that pret the seven seals. for their faith and their view of the hell for killing his people, as if David scattered on David’s bed many request, maybe history would have The standoff ended with the com- seven seals. intended to murder anyone. pages and that the first seal was fin- taken a different turn. pound outside of Waco burning to Mr. Sage even says that he himself ished and that David had started the Since the Davidians believed that death Mr. Koresh and about 80 other God started the ‘waiting’ would have come out quickly had second seal. God had released them from the wait- Branch Davidians, including many Dr. Tabor explains the break- authorities or anyone else put his So on Sunday night Steve knew he ing period in the April 14 letter, the children. through that would have led to the family in danger with CS gas (tear had already clearly reported earlier show could have made a major struc- Unfortunately, the U.S. govern- peaceful resolution of the standoff gas). So this shows that even now that seal one was finished and No. 2 tural point about when the waiting ment didn’t realize David Koresh, promised by David in his letter of agent Sage does not fully understand was underway. He was simply care- period began and when it was to end. who had founded an offbeat Christian April 14, 1993, but the program does what faith meant to the Davidians. fully reporting that at the moment he The program could have said group, genuinely believed his odd in- that the tragedy was terpretation of the seven seals of the that the authorities book of Revelation. failed to recognize that the authorities’ Leading characters long waiting had suc- The MSNBC program has the ad- ceeded! The period vantage over other programs about had expired. The Waco of using lots of primary sources next step was to in the form of audios, videos and eye- hand over the mes- witness interviews. This gives it a sage about the seals sense of authenticity and serves to and come out. introduce viewers to leading charac- Then the pro- ters in the drama. gram could have But, not too long after the pro- better interrogated gram’s auspicious start, the subject of the authorities about “scandal” begins to take front row in their reasons for act- the form of David’s tirades, coarse 1 ing in a way that pre- speaking, control of others and cipitated the final liaisons with younger wives, as well resolution. as the Davidian gun issues. BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER—Photo 1: This is the The point could Comments by Rick Ross, the Branch Davidian compound near Waco before the fire that have been made that Ohio-based lecturer on “cults,” at killed more than 80 people in April 1993. Photo 2: The com- the negotiators seem least show that the Davidians be- pound burns. Photo 3: A Bible lies amid the rubble after the to have failed to rec- holocaust. See Phillip Arnold’s review of a television docu- 2 lieved in a religious message, while mentary about the Waco disaster beginning on page 1 of this ognize that the “wait- Mr. Ross’s tone strongly reinforces issue of THE JOURNAL. [Photos courtesy The Reunion Institute] ing period” was offi- the “cult” objectification image. cially closing because Book authors James Tabor (who not highlight it. did not know whether David was they did not have the resources (the ex- has a WCG and AC background and This omission comes from the fact writing that night. pertise) to interpret David’s religious cowrote Why Waco?) and Dick that the program does not first show Plus, on Monday Steve says on the beliefs to agent Jamar and U.S. attor- Reavis (The Ashes of Waco) do well that David and his church believed bug tapes that he wants to tell the FBI ney general Janet Reno, and on up the to balance the equation. that God commanded them to begin a that some of the writing is done al- line to Vince Foster and the Clintons. In the program, agent Byron Sage “waiting period” in early February. ready. Of course, Ruth Riddle (a The program could have let Dr. admits FBI failure but places the pri- David believed he literally heard a Davidian who survived the fire) Tabor’s voice be heard explaining mary blame on David Koresh. voice from God telling him not to brought out the diskette on Monday that throughout the 51 days all the exit Mount Carmel until God told with some of the material completed. clues and information were there for Fatally stubborn him to do so. the FBI to correctly recognize the The program goes on to talk about Since the program fails to show Who set the fire? end of the waiting period and what negotiations failing, the excesses of this point, it fails to recognize the cru- 3 Concerning the fire: The impres- would happen if the FBI violated the the tactical unit and the stubbornness cial significance of the April 14 letter sion is pretty strong on the MSNBC sacred space. of David and the FBI and ATF (Bu- that reveals that David believed that program that Davidians set the fire. Like most programs on Waco, this reau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms God had finally told him to end the What would Jesus do? But it leaves room for some question. opportunity was missed. and Explosives). waiting period. I would ask Mr. Sage if he means Dr. Tabor makes the point that, if A better program would have Agent Sage says David’s comment It does mention that David Ko- that, as a Christian, he would loudly they did set the fire, it was for protec- underscored the fact that the FBI was about having his own kids remaining resh’s lawyer, Dick DeGuerrin, nego- deny Jesus Christ publicly in order to tion of some sort—perhaps a way to (is?) uneducated in the worldview of in Mount Carmel (the Branch David- tiated what could be a major break- avoid the CS gas. obstruct the tanks, or a wall of fire to the religious groups it deals with. ian compound) fully convinced him through when David said God had Or, better, if Jesus could have protect themselves. The program At Waco the ATF and FBI needed that the group for sure was not going told him to write his message and known that His stubborn actions as does not explore this enough. biblical and “religion-worldview to come out. then come out. King of the Jews would later get Overall, in my opinion, the pro- translators” poring over the phone But this does not follow, nor does Himself and a lot of believers killed, gram makes the way the authorities transcripts of every single word— Mr. Sage prove it. Main point missed would He have denied His identity handled Waco look bad, inept and looking for data, looking for the This is the second time I have But the program does not connect and mission in order to “save lives”? heavy-handed and portrays David as meaning and plans that David was noticed that Mr. Sage draws wrong that fact to the main point that the Mr. Sage is correct to believe he bad, even a “monster,” in agent Sage’s telling them in his “Bible babble.” conclusions from prior assumptions revelation from God signified that the would have “come out” in two shakes last words. This would have led to the experts controlling his interpretations. “waiting period” was over, that the of the Lamb’s tail, just like Herod or But it also shows that the David- providing key questions for the nego- He explained the first, on another God who said “Wait” now said “Don’t Pilate would have avoided the cross. ians believed that their faith was the tiators to ask David and Steve. TV program years ago, when he said wait anymore.” But true believers in a messiah put reason they were at Waco and em- The questions would have been he decided to “test” David by con- asked in David’s and Steve’s biblical fronting him with the fact that he, language to elicit from them exactly Byron Sage, was content to believe in There was no mention of how David Koresh and Steve what they meant by their previous Jesus Christ for his salvation. statements referring to prophecies Schneider pleaded to speak to religion scholars, including about the wall of fire, suicide, cruci- Inadequate ‘test’ fixion, the seals, surrendering, exiting Mr. Sage concocted this “test,” he David Noel Freedman and James Tabor and me. and going to trial. says, because, if David genuinely believed he was a messiah, or Lamb Instead, the program goes to agent their faith before family and friends broiled in what they mistook for an Point muddied of God, he would have to confront Sage, who indicates that when the because it is a matter of ultimate con- end-time prophetic fulfillment. I have heard all the 51 days of Mr. Sage and try to convince him that FBI heard about the writing of the cern. negotiation tapes, and there is no salvation was through David Koresh, seals it took it with skepticism, But Mr. Sage reveals a significant The need to zero in doubt in my mind that enough infor- not through Jesus, etc. almost cynically. The authorities had point when he confirms that Special I would have liked the program to mation was there from the mouths of When David politely listened to been waiting for the waiting to end. Agent Jeffrey Jamar would have per- zero in on how the awful end could several Davidians for the authorities Mr. Sage and did not “preach at” him Now that very moment arrived and haps canceled the CS gassing had have been avoided if some of the to have figured out what steps the to convert him, Mr. Sage “knew” that they completely missed it. Steve Schneider on the night of the points below had been recognized or Davidians would take to match the David was really a “con man,” not a There was no mention of how 18th not sounded so indecisive about acted on: steps taken by the FBI. true believer in his messianic identity David Koresh and Steve Schneider David’s writing the seals. The holocaust might not have One path danced to fiery destruc- and mission. (another Davidian) pleaded to speak Mr. Sage indicates on the program happened had the authorities been tion; another path would have Agent Sage assumes that any self- to religion scholars, including David (and Special Agent Jamar told me in willing to comprehend the difference marched the men, women and chil- respecting messiah would just feel Noel Freedman and James Tabor 1995 in Washington, D.C.) that, if between suicide, which the David- dren out safely. The program did not compelled to “convert” a nonbeliever and me. Steve had said on that late-Sunday- ians rejected, and “translation” into make this point clear. on the spot. There was no mention of our at- night phone call there was evidence “heaven,” which could possibly in Readers would do better to visit His prior assumption that he knew tempt to penetrate the media black- of the writing going on, then the their theology be done through a fiery the Waco research center at Texas what a messiah would do led the FBI out and provide the contact David Monday, April 19, assault plan would ascent. State College in San Marcos, where agent to a fatal conclusion. needed. And there was no clear men- have been canceled. Specifically, it would have helped primary sources on Waco and the What would Byron Sage say now tion of the April 14 letter saying that had they comprehended the David- Branch Davidians are housed. See if he knew about the “messianic the seals would be given to scholars Ever so careful ians’ long history of believing that tinyurl.com/waco777. secret” attributed to Jesus in the New and then the Branch Davidians It is true that on the late-Sunday- their community would be protected ______Testament? Or the view of some that would exit. night phone call Steve sounded pas- by a “wall of fire” in the last days. See other articles in THE JOURNAL Jesus told parables to hide, not reveal, Mr. Sage does admit on the pro- sive and too careful when answering If the authorities had given more about Dr. Arnold and his Waco expe- Himself? gram that David said it would take the agent’s probing questions about time for David to write the seals, riences including “Religion ‘Test’ The MSNBC program allows about two days per seal to write his how the writing of the seals was com- leading to members of the communi- Catalyst in 1993 Waco Disaster” and James Tabor several segments to add message. Such an acknowledgment ing along. ty exiting safely now that they were “Waco Eyewitness Claims 1993 important insights and balance to the of such a short period will no doubt But Steve was dog-tired and being convinced the Bible predicted they Holocaust avoidable,” both in issue program. make some viewers wonder why the ever so careful not to distort anything would do so, there could have been a No. 34, dated Nov. 30, 1999. The MSNBC cable news channel FBI did not wait a few days more by overstating what he had seen or satisfactory outcome. For an article about a documentary also allows important information before taking drastic action. not seen that night. If, possibly, the authorities had called Waco: Rules of Engagement, from author Dick Reavis and others. Mr. Sage says two or three times From the negotiation tapes of Sat- granted the Davidian request to speak go to tinyurl.com/waco666. Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) THE JOURNAL 9 Essay The power of one suffices even if you’re the last man standing

The writer is pastor of the Virtual to march on Judah and Jerusalem. ily could have used for themselves. “A good man brings good things of prayer. She told me how hard and Church, which you may attend via They came, they destroyed. For want What was Cornelius praying for in out of the good stored up in his heart,” long she prayed after my dad’s death. phone or Internet. See www.godward. of a righteous leader a nation was lost. his constant prayers? His family? Jesus said (Luke 6:45). She prayed for guidance, protection org, or dial (918) 222-7158 any Satur- The overall picture of Judah at its Well, God apparently answered those God accomplishes much on earth blessings for each of us kids, for the day at 11 a.m. U.S. Pacific time. nadir was one of extortion, bloodshed, prayers because Cornelius’s family by using righteous, good people to essentials to survive and for God’s A version of this essay appeared in immorality, incest and irreligion. This also became God-fearers (Acts 10:2). bring forth their stored goodness to the strength. God heard and answered. a recent issue of The Sabbath Sentinel is a terrifying description of any na- Did he pray for his soldiers and ser- physical and spiritual benefit of others. All four of my mother’s children (biblesabbath.org). tion whose appointed time draws near. vants under his command? Well, some God’s book of heroes will not read became Christians and have remained Political commentators in the West of them had also become God-fearers like volumes that narrate the popular so through life. The four children she By Ken Westby —especially America—should take (verse 7). Was he praying for his gentile, culture. His heroes go unnoticed by devoted so much of her life to saving EATTLE, Wash.—Often the out- note. Is the killing of 50 million harm- pagan countrymen that they could come the world because they seek not their have become a family of almost 60 come of a conflict is decided by less, helpless little unborn American to know the one true God of Israel? own fame but simply and quietly do (grandchildren, great-grandchildren Sthe actions of one individual, an boys and girls bloodshed? Can it be Well, that was the prayer the angel good, often at great personal sacrifice. and great-great-grandchildren) that election determined by a single vote, a called bloodshed when our leaders of God came to answer. Perhaps the greatest heroes are the increases every year—the majority family saved by the bravery of one, and courts and millions of citizens ap- Did Cornelius play a critical role in unsung ones, the anonymous mothers becoming Christians along the way. disaster averted prove of such slaughter? opening the door to more than 90 per- and fathers who daily carry out God’s Can the actions of one person have by the skill of a We need not look all the way back to cent of the world’s population? decree to have families, protect and profound life-changing effects upon single pilot, a Judah for examples of a nation waiting For sure. One man’s actions, done support them and teach them right many? nation saved or for judgment, a country whose ungodly faithfully, often anonymously, with from wrong. lost by the deci- actions cry out for brave people to stand selfless resolve and devotion, can have Vessels of God sion of one man, up with God against the tide of sin. profound impact and be richly blessed My hero Here is where you and I enter God’s or the entire hu- How does Judah compare with by God. I think of my mother, Margit—God story line, His plan for us and our cur- man race saved Noah? Noah’s world was corrupt bless her memory—as a hero who de- rent world: You have the power of one by the righteous- almost beyond measure, yet he stood Back up termined she would keep her family to stand up for righteousness, actively ness of but one alone for 120 years against the tide of There is an unknown back story to together after the sudden death of my do good works and share the good lone man. universal rebellion against God. the Cornelius episode. It exists, but we father in 1943. news of the Kingdom of God. Individuals Kenneth Westby He was the last man standing, and, don’t know it. It involves perhaps Here she was, a Norwegian immi- You and I have the same number of matter in the because of him and his family, Yahweh many a solitary man or woman who grant like my father, Clarence, with hours in our day as had heroes of old. course of human events. Individuals decided to choose eight people and in played a role in the life of Cornelius. four young children to protect and We can have a positive, life-changing matter with God. You and your actions so doing save the human race from ex- Did his mother pass her faith on to care for and a heart full of grief. impact on our mates, children, neigh- impact your world; they make a dif- tinction. her son, as was the case with Timothy, She and my dad had survived the bors, church, fellow workers, our ference within God’s plan. God, in his long-suffering patience, whose Christian mother taught him Great Depression. They were coping greater community. I’m reminded of a 15th-century gave mankind another opportunity. the Scriptures from his youth? with the rationing and shortages in We are not little nobodies in a French proverb: Was it a grandmother or sister or a wartime America. They had dreams of crowd, powerless Christians in a little The Roman soldier traveling teacher? moving from Chicago to the Pacific church fellowship. We count, and we For want of a nail the shoe was lost. A soldier named Cornelius played a Maybe it was a fellow soldier who Northwest after the war. They had count with God. Our conduct and For want of a shoe the horse was lost. role in changing the world by being shared his faith with Cornelius. May- heard that it looked much like their example affect those we encounter in For want of a horse the rider was lost. the door God opened to the gentiles. be it was a faithful servant, maid or native Norway. daily life—potentially for great good For want of a rider the battle was lost. if we choose to be a vessel of God. For want of a battle the kingdom was When somebody throws a rock into lost. The Bible is loaded with the stories a pond, the wave rings move out in all What we could call the power of directions. So our actions and example one has many adepts. We often hail of one man or woman making a dramatic reach out to touch people often them as heroes for rallying an army to unknown to us. victory, for standing up to tyranny difference in moving God’s plan forward. Another way to imagine this is the after all others sat down, for doggedly phenomenon of the “butterfly effect.” pursuing an idea, invention or medi- A butterfly in Japan moves air that cine that changed the world. Over the centuries how many tens devout Jewish neighbor whose wor- Sadly, my father died before he triggers other movement and ultimate- But most are anonymous, unac- of millions of gentile Christians have ship of Yahweh caught the attention of could realize those dreams. To blame ly a storm in the Pacific. knowledged. Yet their contributions walked through that open door? God Cornelius. was a surgical error during a routine In other words, small acts can com- are no less important than those of his- used Cornelius to inspire a major turn- Somehow, somewhere, someone goiter operation. bine with the small acts of other righ- tory’s heroes. ing point in His early church. was key to introducing Cornelius to teous men and women to produce a Can you not stand up for God, fam- Cornelius was a Roman centurion Israel’s God. Did that person know his Munitions work mighty storm of righteousness. ily, country and conscience to shine as charged with leading the Italian cohort actions might change the world? After my father died we were poor, Jesus recommended we do our a power of one? Are you capable of that was pulling duty in the city of Probably not, but does it matter? but as kids we didn’t know it. My good works privately, not with an eye taking a stand for God and against Caesarea. He was a gentile but also a That person is unsung and unknown to mother began doing heavy war work for honor or payback. evil? Perhaps God is also waiting. devout believer in the God of Israel. us but known to God and used by in a munitions factory. She hired an “Your Father who sees what is done One day at about 3 in the afternoon God. What else really matters? old lady to watch us after school until in secret,” stated Jesus, “will reward The evil of slavery he had a vision (see Acts 10). He dis- she came home from work. you” (Matthew 6:1-4). Not content to be a pew sitter, Wil- tinctly saw an angel of God who came You as a power of one After the war she followed her liam Wilberforce was propelled for- to him and said, “Cornelius!” The Bible is likewise loaded with dream and moved us all to Seattle, New crop of heroes ward by an on-fire conscience that “What is it, lord?” he trembled. the stories of one man or woman mak- bought a cheap house, worked hard Like the back story of the Cornelius informed him slavery was a corrupt- The angel answered, “Your prayers ing a dramatic difference in moving and put herself through nursing school event, the total effects of your good ing evil, a despicable injustice against and gifts to the poor have come up as God’s plan forward. so she could earn a better wage and works done in God’s name may never human dignity and freedom and a a memorial offering before God.” It is easy to read such stories—star- somehow provide for us. I don’t know become general knowledge. But they stench in God’s nostrils. ring people like Enoch, Noah, Abra- how she did it. will continue beyond our lives. His fiery zeal ignited the consci- Peter meets Cornelius ham, Joseph, Rahab, Samson, Debo- The last ten years of her life she You have the power to stand for ence of the entire British Empire, and Cornelius was shocked, fearful and rah, Mary, John the Baptizer and Jesus lived with JoAn and me in a nice God. You are a human made in God’s other nations, against the age-old confused. Why would God send a —and admire them. image. God didn’t make you an inferi- institution of slavery. heavenly messenger to him? Yet it’s easy not to make the con- or person. After the angel’s announcement nection to yourself personally that You have a hundred billion neurons People matter and instructions to Cornelius, Peter re- those stories imply. With the excep- (brains cells) linked by a hundred tril- History has had its moments when ceived a vision. While Peter was still tion of Jesus, now exalted to God’s lion connections woven into a convo- no one stood up. Let me add a line to pondering its meaning, Cornelius’s heavenly throne, all these heroic char- luted three-dimensional brain architec- the French proverb above: messengers showed up at Peter’s door acters are dead (Hebrews 11). They ture that supports the mind that is to invite him to meet the centurion await the resurrection. you—just like that in every other For want of a righteous man the na- face to face. But you and I are alive and avail- human. You are able if you are willing. tion was lost. Peter took the news to Jerusalem able for God to use us. As Paul said: “God is able to make The 6th century B.C. in the king- that God had launched a mission to all grace abound to you, so that in all dom of Judah was a sad time that the gentiles. God alone had deter- Our measure things at all times, having all that you lacked anyone who would take a righ- mined the boundaries of the church, God can use us? How? Where? need, you will abound in every good teous stand. Ezekiel, quoting God and He had directly intervened by the God expects us to do good as we work. As it is written: ‘He has scat- Himself, preserved the story: Cornelius episode to demonstrate that are able and do it right where we live. tered abroad his gifts to the poor; his “I [the LORD] looked for a man he was including all mankind in his Jesus said serving the physical and righteousness endures forever’ ” (2 among them who would build up the call to repentance and entrance into spiritual needs of others is doing Corinthians 9:8-9). wall and stand before me in the gap on the Kingdom of God. God’s will and counts the same as God is working with a new crop of behalf of the land so that I would not This was a major theological ex- serving the needs of Jesus himself potential heroes in the faith. God has have to destroy it, but I found none. pansion of Christ’s commission to the (Matthew 25:34-46). made you in His image and gifted you “So I will pour out my wrath on them apostles, and it paved the way for the Our righteous, selfless works of with the power and ability to bring His and consume them with my fiery anger, Jerusalem conference (Acts 15), in duty, love and service will serve as the Margit Boganes gifts to everyone in need of physical bringing down on their own heads all which Peter once again told the Cor- measure of our eternal reward. and spiritual help. they have done, declares the Sovereign nelius story and where Paul officially apartment we had furnished for her in Be a messenger of God. Be a power Stored goodness LORD” (Ezekiel 22:29-31, NIV). received the blessing to continue his our daylight basement. She said those of one. Be one who will always stand mission to the gentiles. The call to good works is universal were the happiest years of her life. for God and His goodness. Guts and conviction to all God’s children. One doesn’t My mother alone saved our family William Shakespeare expressed the Judah’s leaders had compromised Cheerful giver need an ordination or special commis- and kept us all together. She will ideal of what God created in man: themselves to enrich themselves at the But let’s go back to this one man, sion to care for the genuine needs of always be an example of a true hero. expense of the people. The ungodly Cornelius. Had not God sent his angel, family, brethren or even strangers who She expressed her love by her selfless What a piece of work is a man! were setting the national tone. The we wouldn’t have known Cornelius come into one’s life. actions. She accepted her responsibili- How noble in reason! priests and prophets supported the existed. He was quietly living and Do we need someone to give us ty and did her duty with unwavering How infinite in faculty! corrupt leadership by acting as reli- doing good where he could, discharg- permission to share our faith with peo- determination. In form, in moving, how express and gious tranquilizers and whitewashing ing his duties righteously, and faith- ple we are close to? Are not good And she managed to keep a cheer- admirable! their crimes with a tradition of politi- fully and dedicatedly praying. works evidence of God’s Spirit work- ful, upbeat spirit that included her In action, how like an angel! cally correct but empty policies and Generously giving away his money ing in us? humming a happy tune in the kitchen In apprehension, how like a god! laws (verses 25-27). to help poor Israelites was voluntary on What is the lack of good works evi- every morning. We do well to be such a man or The armies of Babylon were ready his part. It was money he and his fam- dence of? I must reveal that she was a woman woman in the service of God. 10 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Debate about the Bible unusual in a Church of God setting Continued from page 1 least I will try to adhere, to the time I was accepted to a Methodist semi- tioned was the birth narratives of God’s been very good to me. I left church topics in a suburb of Detroit, that we’ve set. We do have three nary with full scholarships, or Am- Jesus, which we never heard of in the denominational work and have been Mich., three men—Mr. Mokarow, Dr. speakers, but two basic positions rep- bassador College, which hadn’t told church because they were too closely an independent pastor for almost 40 Moseley and this writer—were dis- resented. me whether they’d accepted me or related to Christmas. years. I retired and run a school and cussing in Mr. Mokarow’s hotel suite On my far left is Dennis Diehl. He not. So I called them and said either I examined them for myself intel- am very happy to travel and take peo- religion and related subjects. will be one side of this debate. accept me or I’m going to the other lectually, the birth narratives. They ple back to Jerusalem every year. Mr. Mokarow wondered aloud (this In the middle we have Ron Mose- place. They said you’re accepted. don’t match, they were inserted, they That’s basically it. is not an exact quote): “What do peo- ley and to his right Art Mokarow. Dr. I thought it [AC] was a seminary. I do have a purpose, but theologically ple need? What do our young people Moseley and Mr. Mokarow will repre- was Presbyterian. I’d never attended a they’re fascinating. Out of Orthodoxy need to help them in their understand- sent the other side in this debate. local [WCG] church [except for that I went on to reinvent myself. I was Art Mokarow: The one thing ing of God and the Bible?” We will begin with five minutes for one time in Idaho at age 14]. I didn’t asked to pastor the remnants of the you’re going to know if you hear us is During the discussion this writer each side. When I say side I mean Mr. know a local minister. I only knew church. I didn’t want that drama. I’m very simple, nothing complex, noth- for THE JOURNAL commented that Diehl for one side and Dr. Moseley Ambassador College. not built for that drama. I don’t want ing confusing like denominational young people having grown up in a Christianity. I’m not against any church environment go off to college church, because it’s a part of the and encounter startling opinions and process that God is doing, and in the theories, philosophical and theologi- end it all comes together again. cal, they had never heard before, and I’m from immigrant parents of as a result many of them lose faith in Russian descent. They came over in the Bible and God. 1917 to Chicago and worked in the Therefore, what about a discussion stockyards. We were very poor and about the Bible itself? grew up maybe two miles from where Church of God and other preachers Obama came from. So I understand constantly sermonize from the Bible poor. and sometimes even debate Bible sub- When I started studying the Bible jects with other Christians. when I was 20 in the Navy, I was of But rarely does a Church of God the Orthodox faith. minister or scholar attempt to prove After that I ran into Ambassador specifically that the Bible is what from my wife listening to the radio. Church of God writers and preachers We ended up attending the Chicago say it is: the inspired, infallible (some church in the early ’50s, and after I say inerrant) Word of God. was over there two-three years I was As a result of that conversation, Dr. asked to come to the college. DEBATE NEAR TYLER, TEXAS—The three debaters, are (from left) Ron Moseley, Art Mokarow and Dennis Diehl. Moseley submitted an essay THE At that time I was already 30 years pausing here just a few minutes before the start of the event, [Photos by Dixon Cartwright] JOURNAL printed in its issue dated Aug. old, a grown man, and had a business 31, 2008, titled “Modern Scholarship already established with State Farm Has Provided Us a Better Class of and Mr. Mokarow for the other side. So I went to Ambassador College. the splits that will come after the splits Insurance as a manager. Heresy.” Each side will have five minutes for The first day I was there Garner Ted that have come that will come again. I had been asked to move to be on THE JOURNAL was happy to publish some personal background informa- [Armstrong] announced if you came I told the elders: I know you guys. the staff with the vice president of Dr. Moseley’s essay. tion. Then each side will have 15 min- here to be a minister get over it; you’ll You will eat me alive in six months State Farm. It was 130 miles away. I Still, although it cited modern Bible utes for an introductory presentation. be kicked out of here quicker than you and I will still be looking for work. So turned it down because I didn’t want research and spoke of the dangers of During those 15 minutes they will can possibly imagine. I quit [in 1998]. to leave my family and move 130 gnosticism and explained the process explain their basic point of view so I thought: Oh, that’s different. I I’ve had a lot of counseling to get miles. of canonization, it did not prove that you will understand where each side is thought it was a seminary. So I said, through what I considered to be a trau- Six months later I was asked and the Bible is the inspired and perfect coming from. okay, then I’ll get grades and make matic experience. I have examined told I had to go to Ambassador, and I Word of God. And then the questions. For each you hire me. And I did. Scripture. But, from my point of view, moved 2,000 miles. question each side will have five min- So when I graduated I was sent to Scripture can never mean what it I graduated, got ordained, was sent Mr. Mokarow willing utes. That means we should have a Minneapolis to work in the regional never meant. out, and a lot of churches he [Mr. At some point between the Detroit total of 10 minutes per question. area. At 22 years old I was ordained a I love Mr. Mokarow. I respect him. Diehl] pastored I started. I had 25 pas- seminars in August 2008 and the The side with Mr. Mokarow and local elder, which was way too soon. This is not really a debate. This is just tors under me before they called me in debate in February 2010, Mr. Mo- Dr. Moseley can split the time how- At 23 I was ordained a preaching me bringing myself some closure. I to Pasadena after being eight or nine karow and this writer began speaking ever they wish. If they wish to split the elder, which was way too soon. have a massage-therapy practice and I years from the Detroit area. Every six of the possibility of a debate on the time 50-50 that’s fine. Or if, in some teach it, and so that’s what I do. months the Detroit church grew by a veracity of the Bible. cases, one speaker wishes to answer Pastor of 14 churches thousand people. So we were pretty Mr. Mokarow expressed his will- the question and take up the whole I went on to pastor 14 congrega- Three years ago in Dallas large when they called me in. ingness, even eagerness, to debate. He time that’s fine too. tions all over the country: Chicago, Reg Killingley: Thank you, Mr. Then finally I was put in charge of asked for a suggestion for a worthy Then we hope to have a little bit of Minneapolis, Toledo, Findlay, Mans- Diehl. And now, the other side. You’ll ministerial training worldwide. I 1 opponent. Dennis Diehl came to mind, time for questions from the floor. If field, three in Kentucky, two in New have 2 ⁄2 minutes each. taught at Ambassador. I became part since Mr. Diehl is a former WCG pas- you [in the audience] have some ques- York state—I’m from Rochester, Art Mokarow: Can I just introduce of AICF [the Ambassador Inter- tor but no longer believes the Bible is tions you would like to ask, you might N.Y.—one in Greenville, S.C., where Ron Moseley? national Cultural Foundation], where the inspired Word of God. make a note. there were over 400 people at that I met this gentleman three years they drafted me because they knew I Mr. Mokarow liked the idea, and Then each side will have 10 min- point. ago at the Dallas gathering of schol- had a business background, and [Stan- the debate eventually happened sev- utes for a closing or summary presen- Every church I’ve ever pastored is ars. We had 25 scholars come. We ley] Rader [a WCG attorney and evan- eral weeks ago. tation, and that will conclude the gone. The 400 people in Greenville were in Dallas for five days. They gelist] liked me because I worked. debate. are 10, and three of them are elders, were from a variety of denominations, Then finally it got corrupt and I left. Four on stage To start—we selected this at ran- and they all fight among each other to and many from Worldwide and splits. On stage besides the three de- dom—I’ve asked Mr. Diehl to start, so speak to the last six people. [See “Symposium Presents Mix of Asking hard questions baters—with Mr. Mokarow and Dr. Reg Killingley: We will now go to Moseley on one side and Mr. Diehl on the introductory presentation. This is the other—was Reg Killingley, a Mr. Mokarow: ‘Jesus says that you can understand where each side will present in 15 Church of God member who lives minutes their point of view about the near Big Sandy. spiritual things only in comparison with physical. nature of the Bible. We will start with Mr. Killingley served as moderator, Mr. Mokarow or Dr. Moseley. valiantly attempting to keep the dis- He says spirit is spirit—like the wind.’ Ron Moseley: I, much like Dennis, cussion moving and on target. would ask questions, hard questions. As agreed upon by all the partici- What I was taught in seminary—and I pants, no judges were present to he will have five minutes to give you My evaluation [by the WCG] Views About Law, Grace,” THE JOUR- graduated from five of them—was decide who won and lost. No winner biographical and personal and back- before I was terminated in 1998 was: NAL, Feb. 29, 2008.] unsatisfactory. was declared. The debate was simply ground information. “Dennis, we think you know an awful I met this gentleman [Dr. Moseley]. I remember being at the Hebrew a way to let both sides give their lot about Jesus,” which meant church I found out he had a doctorate from department of the University of Texas points of view. Suited up with Pooh history, the way things are, “but we Oxford [Graduate School]. in Austin under Dr. Roy Blizzard. We The following is an abridged and Dennis Diehl: Thank you very don’t think you know Jesus.” [Here is information Dr. Moseley travel together and write books to- otherwise lightly edited version of a much. I wore my Pooh tie because this A few months later I got one call supplied to THE JOURNAL about his gether today. But back then he was transcript of the debate. protects me. Nobody punches some- after a Bible study—I still had a education: He studied in America, Je- just short of John the Baptist and I was ______body with a Pooh tie. church of 125 people—from church rusalem and England. He has a Ph.D. a peon. Ron Moseley: I do. administration, and they just simply in Second Temple history from Lou- I had 70 hours at the University of Introductions all around Dennis Diehl: Okay. Well, thank said you’ve been terminated. You isiana Baptist University and a D.Phil. Texas, and I remember saying that I Reg Killingley: Good afternoon you for having me here. I want you to know, best of luck, it’s not personal, and D.Litt. from Oxford Graduate already had two master’s degrees in and welcome. I’m Reg Killingley, and know this is the first time I’ve worn a we just can’t afford you anymore, and School, Dayton, Tenn. He studied dur- history, and this thing didn’t work— I have been asked to moderate. I was suit in 12 years. Yesterday was the first if you have any questions call the per- ing five separate years at Oxford Uni- On every page Jesus was either about to say mediate, but I think a bet- Sabbath service I have gone to in 12 sonnel department. versity in England and studied parts of spitting on the ground and making ter term is moderate this discussion, years. I said 26 years and that’s it? 12 years at Hebrew University and Je- spittle—and all these things had to be which will be of course a very cordial When Bronson [James] sang last And they said just call the person- rusalem University. He has also stud- some scientific, not scientific but his- one. night “How Great Thou Art” [at a nel department. ied at Princeton Theological Seminary.] torical—idiom, because that’s the way Let me, before we get started, give church-sponsored concert in the same I hung up and he hung up, and I’ve Jews write. thanks to the Tyler Sabbath Fellow- building], I told him don’t do it. I sat never heard another word from a liv- Back to Jerusalem every year I couldn’t afford to, but I went to ship for allowing us the use of this back there with tears in my eyes. ing, breathing Worldwide Church of Ron Moseley: I was raised Baptist, Jerusalem and studied 12 years during very nice facility. I came to the Worldwide Church of God friend, pastor, administrator, in and the only Jew I knew in my small the summers. Also I want to thank THE JOURNAL, God when I was 14 years old. The first the last 12 years. That was it. town in Arkansas was Jesus. When I Nine businessmen paid my educa- the newspaper of the Churches of sermon I ever heard was Fred Coulter went to Jerusalem it was quite an tional expenses. As a result of that, I God, and the publisher, sitting in the in Boise, Idaho. I was impressed. Good for the goose experience. When I went to Oxford it was able to pick seven, not colleges, back there, Dixon Cartwright, for I spent my high-school years study- So I thought: Well, if you can was quite an experience. but professors, the leaders in their helping coordinate this debate. ing the church, the literature, wanting examine the things that you’re exam- I graduated from Oxford Graduate field. The format for this afternoon will to be a minister. I always had wanted ining, I can examine the questions that School [in Tennessee] but spent five [The nine businessmen] didn’t want be several questions and then timed to be a minister. 25 years has brought up. different occasions, years, semesters, me just to go to Princeton and get an answers. We will try to adhere, or at When I graduated from high school One of the first things I ever ques- in Oxford, England. See DEBATERS AGREE, page 11 Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) THE JOURNAL 11 Debaters agree: A scripture can’t mean what it never meant Continued from page 10 mean what it never meant. limits? Because that was god food. The bottom line is that Paul never called the Harmony of the Gospels. If education. They wanted me to get a Most Hebrew scholars would say That wasn’t for humans, so that’s re- met Jesus. Paul’s writings come first I could take it again I would remind good education and graduate but study Genesis 1 is not a scientific treatise on flected in the mythology of the story. before the Gospels. Paul had lived and him it’s the Disharmony of the Gos- under the best guys in the field, how things came to be. My perspec- The purpose for Genesis 2 is simply died before the Gospels were ever pels. They don’t match. [David] Fluesser in Jerusalem and so tive is that Genesis 1 is a statement by to dethrone the goddess—goddess written. Paul never knew an earthly The resurrection stories don’t forth. So I did that, and they paid for it. the Israelite priesthood, or the writers worship around the nations of Israel— Jesus. match. They are different stories told In doing so, opposite of Dennis, I of the book, to simply say you worship and to stop women from being wor- The Jesus that Paul knew was in his by different people about things they found that it drew me nearer to the wind, rain, fire, sun, moon, stars, ani- shiped for their fertility. head, hallucinatory, cosmic, almost probably knew precious little about. Bible. mals, vegetables, minerals. Our God It was going to be patriarchy over gnostic. The Gospels then came along, But they had meaning. Don’t mis- I left the Baptist Church. I was in made your god. Our God is superior to matriarchy. It was to be priesthood, fleshed out Jesus, by using the Old understand me. They have meaning. one of the largest ones in Arkansas, your god. That’s the purpose for animals. Testament, not by what they knew But these stories don’t have the mean- and you got excommunicated when Genesis 1. I’m very pro-woman; I’ve been about Him as a person, but using Old ing that many fundamentalist church- you left. That’s almost like a surgical I’ve studied human origins for 15 accused of that all my life; you always Testament scriptures. es assign to them. procedure. years. I believe firmly that human take up for the woman. That’s because Matthew and his birth narrative Why does the Bible contain false You know, I just never looked back. prophecy? Who was the apostle Paul? We’re looking to God. The Bible, the What kind of Pharisee has Roman cit- more I studied it, these questions izenship? That’s unheard of. That’d be made sense, and I came up with 400 like President Obama belonging to al- that were contradictions in my mind. I Qaeda, and some people think he sorted through every one of them. does. I think if you’re looking for an error Pharisees aren’t Roman citizens. you’re going to find one. But I like They hated Romans. Why does the what Dennis said: A scripture can apostle Paul—who said I was the never mean what it never meant. I smartest pencil in the box, I had the best think these bobtail preachers around teacher, I was above my fellows, I was here today, and in all the seminaries a Pharisee of Pharisees—why does he where I’ve come from, they absolute- dozens of times in his writings in the ly have an agenda. New Testament misquote the Old Tes- tament and use the Greek to do it? Read everything he could Art Mokarow: The approach that Is ‘seed’ plural or not? brought me to the Bible was really just There’s no evidence the apostle three years ago. Paul even knows Hebrew. He never When I resigned from the Church uses it, and when he goes back to the of God and the ministry in 1979, for Greek text he misquotes it. He makes 40 years nobody heard of me. Some scriptures mean what they never people said I was dead. Some people meant—to tell his story. said my wife and I were divorced. But I’ll give you one of the better this is our 60th year of marriage. examples. In Galatians Paul is trying Ron Moseley: You look good to be to make gentiles the children of Abra- dead. ON STAGE—Four men are on stage during the debate in White- Word of God or not. Mr. Mokarow and Dr. Moseley argued for the ham. He’s trying to turn the father Art Mokarow: I’m 82 and I’m still house, Texas. From left: Reg Killingley of Big Sandy, who served inspiration of the Bible. Mr. Diehl argued that the Bible was not of circumcision into the father of around, God willing. But, anyway, I as moderator, Art Mokarow, Ron Moseley and Dennis Diehl. The written to be taken as the inerrant, perfect, written Word of God. the uncircumcised, because that’s studied by myself. I read everything I subject is the nature of the Bible: whether the Bible is the inspired [Photo by Dixon Cartwright] his idea. That’s what he wants to do. could. He says the promise is to you and to Now, I have three degrees. I have a beings evolved, that in some way I’m the woman is the one who gets beat eight times describe events in the birth your seed. bachelor of science from DePaul Uni- a conscious, hairless ape. half to death, even in the church. of Jesus and eight times go to the Old He says notice it doesn’t say seeds; versity, before I went to Ambassador. Women, according to Genesis, are Testament to find a scripture that will it’s not plural. He says the promise is It’s a Catholic [school]. Since I wasn’t Trapped spirit to say yes, sir, to their husbands and tell that story. Eight times Matthew to you and your seed and that seed is Catholic I had to take their philoso- I’d like to believe that I’m also a have babies painfully. That’s hardly a makes the Scripture mean what the Christ, and he’s definitely trying to phy, which meant I got steeped in spirit trapped in a limited five-sensed goddess thing. Jewish writer never meant it to mean. show that the word seed is singular. Plato, Augustine and St. Thomas carbon-based wet suit and that some- I always wondered: Why did God To which I say, well, it’s like sheep. Aquinas and right through Hume and day I can shed the crazy thing and not hate vegetables? Why did God hate Midrash, an acceptable way Feed My sheeps? It’s a plural word, Nietzsche and all of them, okay? just experience the world through five Cain’s offering and love animals? Eight times Matthew goes back to and in the context where Abraham is Also, I did take science. Science senses but everything that’s available. That’s crazy. the Old Testament, misquotes it, told the promise is to you, Abraham, was one of my majors. That’s either metaphysical or philo- makes it mean what it never meant, and to your seed it means to you and After I graduated from Ambassador sophical. But that’s the stuff that Goddess worship quotes part of a scripture and leaves to your generations to come. It doesn’t I got a doctorate from Pacific States makes me cry when I hear “How The symbolism is, again, goddess off the rest—to tell a story. It’s called mean Christ. University. I don’t use the doctorate Great Thou Art.” worship. Agriculture, seeds, rain, fer- midrash, and it’s an acceptable way to We can say, well, he was making an because I’m just a servant of Christ. Genesis 2, the story of the fall, is tility, those are goddess symbols. write a story that you don’t know. analogy, but Paul would turn the Old I’m just like you. We’re all the same. a retelling of a Sumerian tale of the That’s why symbolically the offering The birth stories were inserted long Testament on its head. He turned We’re diakonos, we’re just servants. gods who lived on the plains of Edin, was rejected and Abel’s meat offer- after the Gospel itself was written to Sarah into Hagar and Hagar into About 12 years ago somebody E-D-I-N, not the Garden of Eden, ing—priesthood, temples, sacrifices— counteract the idea that Jesus was born Sarah. He turned Sarah into the anti- found where I was, and they put me on E-D-E-N. In the Sumerian tale they was in. of fornication. law and— the Internet, and on the Internet I start- only were allowed to eat from the tree Human language did not come That was a big tale being told at that It was just confusion—because he ed getting E-mails from around the of the knowledge of good and evil from the Tower of Babel. We know time, and they simply needed to write was trying to tell a story, which is world. They wanted to know what I because only the gods were to know better than that. I joined the National a story about His birth that was spec- okay, except why does a Pharisee of believed after all those years. the knowledge of good and evil. It Geographic Genome Project five or tacular. The problem is that when you Pharisees so misquote the book when I couldn’t answer them all because wasn’t for human beings. The tree of six years ago, which simply meant for study Matthew’s story and Luke’s he said he was the smartest person in I was running a business. I decided I’d life was also not for human beings. $100 you could spit in a tube, send it story they don’t match. his class? write one book called God’s Puzzle That’s why in the retelling of the to somebody and they would give you If Matthew had read Luke he It’s not just me. Many scholars Solved. It took me a year to write that wonder who is Paul. The apostle Paul book. But now I’ve just finished my is the author of gentile, Sunday-keep- 38th one. ing, typical Christianity in the Western I have learned more in the last three Mr. Diehl: ‘The purpose for Genesis 2 is simply to dethrone world, not Jesus. years than I did in 60. That’s where I am today. the goddess—goddess worship around the nations of Israel— The joke’s on Peter and to stop women from being worshiped for their fertility.’ Jesus and Paul wouldn’t agree. Studied human origins James and Paul wouldn’t agree. The Reg Killingley: Well, then, for the politics of the New Testament is fasci- introductory presentation we have Mr. story in the Bible those were the two your DNA route out of Africa over the wouldn’t have written his story. We’re nating. For example, every time John Diehl. trees that Adam and Eve were not last 160,000 years. so used to putting them together like refers to the apostle Peter he links him Dennis Diehl: I’d like to get to allowed in the mythology. I’ll be plain It’s in my spit. It’s in your spit. It this in the Christmas story that we to Judas. some of the specifics of things that about it. It’s mythology. It didn’t liter- proves to me that the story is not liter- don’t see that they don’t match. I’ll give you one example just be- caught my attention. ally happen. ally true. We didn’t come from that. You can’t flee to Egypt for two fore I close here, the story of Ananias If I could live my life again I would Those trees were off limits because And it was never written to be years and come back and in the same and Sapphira. go to the University of Pennsylvania those were god trees. taken literally. As I say, Scripture can story after 40 days go home to Naza- That story is lost on us today. It was and be a paleontologist. That’s where I heard Mr. Armstrong explain the never mean what it never meant. reth. There are scores of contradic- a joke. It was a slam against Peter by my heart was. That’s the kind of hob- two trees a thousand times. I heard tions in those stories. They are not the Luke, who was Paul’s scribe. bies I’ve had all my life. I’ve always “uniplural” a thousand times. But Paul died before the Gospels same story. We all know the story. A couple studied human origins. Elohim, the God of Genesis, is a Another thing I addressed was who People say the Gospel accounts are promises to give all their money to the From the beginning at Ambassador remake of the Canaanite God El, and is the apostle Paul. Why does the eyewitness accounts, just four people church and, when push comes to College you study from the standpoint the elohim are the council of the gods. apostle Paul, who writes most of the seeing something differently, just like shove, hold back some of it. Peter that the book of Genesis, the first 11 New Testament—and it’s not written you’d see an accident differently. caught them, said how dare you. The chapters in particular, are literally true: The council of the gods by the 12 so-called followers of But that’s not true. Mark is proba- Holy Spirit is going to strike you dead. that women really did come from the When God said let us make man in Jesus—why does the apostle Paul bly the first Gospel. Matthew copies And he killed them. rib of a man, that everything was cre- our image, He wasn’t talking to Jesus. never quote Jesus, never heard a story over 90 percent verbatim from Mark Even as a kid I thought that’s an ated in seven days, that Noah really He wasn’t talking to the being who be- about Jesus, never tell a tale about for his Gospel. That’s not an eyewit- odd story. I mean, didn’t anybody say did have penguins and polar bears and came Jesus. He was talking to the Jesus or a teaching about Jesus? ness. That’s a copier. Luke copies over where’s Sapphira, my mom? Didn’t such on the ark, wallabies and kanga- council of the gods and simply say- Why did the apostle Paul some- 50 percent. That’s not an eyewitness. anybody say my sister Sapphira came roos that made the trip from Australia. ing—when they finally realized what times say we don’t know how to pray, That’s another copier. to church and she never came home? Nobody can explain that, nobody Adam and Eve potentially could do— but, don’t worry, the Holy Spirit can John is kind of on his own. Didn’t the Romans ever say you can’t wants to bother with it. But the Bible we’ve got to kick them out of the gar- moan and peep and utter for you, kill people in church and get away says it, therefore it’s true. den lest they take of our trees. instead of saying remember what Disharmony of the Gospels with that? There are reasons for these stories. I wondered as a kid why can’t we Jesus said: Our Father, who art in But the Gospel accounts— So what’s the point of this story? But, as I said, Scripture can never know good and evil. Why is that off heaven? I took a class from Rod Meredith See THREE DEBATERS, page 12 12 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Three debaters air two opposing views of inspiration of Bible Continued from page 11 am a spirit trapped in a limited five- It’s a compilation of everything Babylon in the Bible. Babylon really Bible says it’s inspired, that’s not good It’s a joke against Peter, and the read- sensed carbon-based wet suit. I hope known. It’ll give you every detail means a mix or division. enough for me, and that shouldn’t be ers of Acts would have got the humor. that’s true. I like to believe that’s true, about these things. The reason God had to divide them good enough for anybody. We don’t. We think it’s a threat not to that I’m not just a hairless ape. Now, with that said, concerning and separate them according to their Jesus even said: If I give witness to pull back on your promises. My DNA tells me I originated in Paul: It’s not unheard of that someone own inheritance was because if they Myself My witness is no good. He The purpose of the story is to in- Africa. I would love to tell the Klan, could be a Roman citizen and be a were together they would have ended also said later on: If I give witness to form the people of Paul who don’t like the Ku Klux Klan, that they all Hebrew or a Jew or a Pharisee. There up like the Noachian flood in violence Myself it’s good. There’s another con- Peter and don’t think he’s qualified to originated in Africa about 160,000 are 26 different groups in the 1st cen- and war. tradiction. Which one did He mean? lead the church. years ago. tury including the Herodians and the But, in this context, just because the Here’s a couple who said they’d do Zealots. Compare physical and spiritual Bible says it’s true doesn’t mean it’s one thing and didn’t who were killed Men have lots of ribs Remember the Roman centurion. Science can be relied upon as long true in the sense that we’ve taken it to by the great leader Peter, who we Women didn’t come from the rib of He wasn’t a centurion for the Razor- as it stays physical—pretty much. be true. don’t think is a leader at all, who said a man in the story because it’s close to backs, but he was a centurion for The books of the Bible were voted he would do one thing, never leave his heart. They came from the rib of a Rome. I would assume he’d have to upon. They were added by vote. The Jesus, and did another: betrayed him, man because men had lots of ribs. be a Roman citizen who bought the books that were excluded were ex- denied him. Ha ha ha. They wouldn’t miss one, because synagogue at Capernaum, who was a cluded by vote. It’s not that sacred a And the audience would say ha ha women in the Old Testament, and God-fearer. Cornelius was a God-fear- process. ha, you’re right. Peter’s just as guilty often in the New Testament, are prop- er, but he was a Roman citizen. The book of Revelation—which is as this couple. erty. They belong to the man. Paul, raised in Tarsus, was a Roman one of the kingpins of offensive I don’t personally think anybody When I realized this I quit doing citizen, but he was a man who studied books that has caused more carnage was killed that day. I think it was a wedding ceremonies where I said who under Gamaliel. You cannot study in fundamentalism and has produced joke to show the church that the father gives this woman. It was always: I do. under those guys any more than I more splinter churches because it’s of the book of Acts and Paul’s gentile My father does. I could tolerate her could go to the Hebrew University based on a failed prophecy—is not a version of it that Peter was not to be mother and I do, but I couldn’t tolerate without knowing Hebrew, unless you book that has anything to do with followed. any more the idea that Dad owns his go to the American section. tomorrow’s news. daughter and now he’s passing her off It’s a failed prophecy, and it came to Paul learned nothing from the pillars as property. 13 or 14 generations an end on Oct. 8 in 70 A.D. when it Paul wasn’t kidding in Galatians, Is science absolutely true on all Let’s look at the narratives. One of failed to produce the results that it was and it took me 25 years to read it prop- things? No. It’s still a theory. But just the birth narratives says there’s 14 written for. erly. I learned nothing from Peter, because it’s a theory doesn’t mean it’s generations, and skeptics would say James and John, reputed pillars in the not true. there’s 14 generations of Jesus’ gen- A book to encourage church, said Paul. Who they are The resurrection is a theory. The ealogy from the captivity until Christ. The book of Revelation is a book makes no difference to me. I learned Kingdom of God is a theory. You can’t One says there are 13. written by Jewish Christians to en- nothing from them. prove it. You can believe it. But a At first glance that is a contradic- courage Jewish Christians to hang in How can a man not learn anything belief isn’t a truth. A belief is a belief. tion. But there’s no contradiction. One there while the Romans raped their from the people who spent three years Sometimes faith is what we have until was given from the time they left MODERATOR—During a break in the country. [The Romans will come and with Jesus? And why don’t those men the facts come along. For me I’ve Israel. Another is given from the time proceedings, moderator Reg Killingley go, but] the Kingdom’s going to come, write this story? They disappear. gained some facts that have changed they left Babylon, or they got in gazes down from the stage. [Photo by we’re going to win. Those questions to me are impor- my faith. Babylon. Dixon Cartwright] Unfortunately, they lost. The Ro- tant. Who is the apostle Paul? I don’t The point of it is the reason they use mans scoured them from the face of think he is who the book says he is. Spiritual and curious 14. Every Hebrew letter has a number. Okay? Jesus made that very clear the earth. That’s when Revelation There are several times where I think Do I not have faith? No. I have a lot Dalet vav dalet, D V D. D is David. when he was talking to Nicodemus in failed. It didn’t produce the desired you can catch Paul in a lie. of faith. Am I not spiritual? I’m very Anytime you see that in 1st-century John 3. He says that you can only effect. I think several times in the book of spiritual. But I am also curious. I also Pharisee literature you’re going to understand spiritual things in com- I am inclined to believe that the Acts Luke tries to paste it over and want to know why is it that way. I’ve realize that it’s saying this individual parison with physical. He says spirit false prophet of Revelation—accord- show that they were like this when in been that way since I was a kid. When came in the lineage of the son of is spirit—like the wind. Spirit and ing to Jewish Christians who hated the book of Galatians the apostle Paul my friends were playing hockey in David. wind are the same Greek word, pneu- him—was the apostle Paul. Vespasian says that’s not what happened: New York I was in the library. That was their whole point. They ma. Okay? was the beast. I didn’t see anything on the Da- The Bible story is a wonderful did not attempt to list everyone be- He’s right. I agreed with everything In the letter to the Ephesians Jesus mascus road. That didn’t happen to story, and it has purpose, but that cause it lists his grandfather and then he [Mr. Diehl] said. I didn’t disagree praises the Ephesians for trying those me. I was called from my mother’s doesn’t negate the fact that science is lists the grandson as his son. This was with one thing that Dennis said about who say they are apostles and are womb. telling, for the most part, the truth commonly done. the Sumerians. Of course, the reason not—and for getting rid of them. The That’s what Paul says in Galatians. about human origins. We’ve learned Another good thing about the we ended up with the DNA down in apostle Paul says he was in Ephesus. I was called from my mother’s womb, more in the last 20 years than the pre- genealogy that used to throw me a Africa was because the first world The apostle Paul said all those in Asia and there are only two other people in vious 500 about human origins. loop until I looked at it: It says that empire under Nimrod extended all the have forsaken me. the Bible who had that distinction: I’m also fascinated with theology. Mary’s father was Heli and that way from Africa to Babylon. If you put the pieces together you Jesus and Jeremiah. So that’s as quick as I can tell you Joseph’s father was Jacob. Then It is true there were three areas at have to ask yourself why the Ephesian I don’t believe the Damascus story church forsook Paul. Did they decide is true. If it’s true I think it’s the symp- he wasn’t an apostle and they threw toms of a man with temporal-lobe Mr. Mokarow: ‘God did flood the world and kill everybody. him out? I think so because they were epilepsy. Jewish Christians just like you. Fascinating evolution But God cannot murder. The reason He can’t Jewish or gentile Christian? Reg Killingley: With the first ques- murder is because He can resurrect you.’ We’ve been taught that the apostle tion we will start with Mr. Diehl. The Paul was a Jewish Christian, that he question is: What is your belief or did keep the holy days even though it your position on origins, in particular about origins. You’re a hairless ape another Gospel says that Mary’s father the beginning. If you pull out a dollar sounds like he didn’t, that he loved human origins? with consciousness. was Jacob. Which is it? and you look at it you see a pyramid. God’s law even though he says these Dennis Diehl: My bottom-line Ron Moseley: I have hair. In Judaism we find that old Jacob That pyramid is the zikkurat in the other things, that he kept the Sabbath belief is that evolution is true, and Reg Killingley: Thank you, Mr. had no sons, so therefore, when he Sumerian temple, which was the even though he said these other things. that’s of all life. I’ve been with people Diehl, and the same question to Mr.— married Mary, Joseph became the son Tower of Babel. The answer is the apostle Paul was that have convinced me. It’s not a or I should say Dr.?—Mokarow as of not only Jacob but of Jacob and The first pyramid that was ever a gentile Christian. He’s the author of minor thing. well. Heli. So he became like a son-in-law built was the step pyramid. It had a gentile Christianity. He did away with That’s not to disregard the book of but he was considered a son. pathway to the top. That’s why they those things [the holy days and Sab- Genesis. The book of Genesis simply New Testament more authentic Reg Killingley: For the next ques- had the eye on the dollar. When our bath]. He hated those things. was not written to be a treatise on Ron Moseley: You know, I thought tion you [Mr. Mokarow and Dr. Mose- [U.S.] Constitution was formed by the I would also take exception to the where all life comes from. we were going to get to challenge ley] are first. founders, 20 to 30 percent of them fact that the Gospels are the best ac- Evolution is true. That’s not intimi- what he said. Art Mokarow: But I want to go were Masons, and they knew they count of Phariseeism in history. They dating to me. It’s absolutely fascinat- Reg Killingley: Please feel free to back to the first one. were coming out of Babylon. are the worst account. The Pharisees ing to me that there was a point in his- challenge. Reg Killingley: Okay. Well, let me At the top of this hill where God as portrayed in the Gospels are not the tory where human beings, we, became Ron Moseley: Well, I shall, then. just read the question, and it’s your dwelled was the Garden of Eden. Pharisees of reality. The way they’re conscious. Again, one of the reasons that I choice on how you wish to answer it. I agree with him. I don’t think the cursed and described is not the way For 200,000 years Neanderthals studied in Jerusalem is because I could Art Mokarow: All right. Maybe I trees were real trees, because Christ they were viewed by the community. ruled Europe during the ice age. They study with the Jews who study the life can wrap them together. showed they weren’t real trees. He That’s my opinion. were like us, but they weren’t us. We of Jesus more than Christians from a Reg Killingley: That’s right. And says you shall know them by their I can’t argue with your [Dr. Mose- have a common ancestor. They went tradition study Him. the question is: Why do we think or fruits. In Matthew 7 He described the ley’s] education, but I see what I see. this way, and we went that way, and At Hebrew University at Mount believe that the 66 books of the Bible difference. The reason we believe the Bible is the eventually met in Europe, where we, Scopus they use the New Testament as that is there on your table are the When Adam and Eve were created, inspired Word of God is because who had more consciousness, wiped the document from which they in- inspired written Word of God? maturitywise they were children. It we’ve been told it is. We have to make them off the face of the earth. struct concerning the Pharisees of the was just a beginning for an education. a choice whether we understand that In 200,000 years Neanderthals 1st century, because they have a belief Why believe? God was the teacher. Okay? I’m trying to be true or perhaps have questions never changed a tool. They were pres- in its authenticity compared with other Art Mokarow: I want to deal a little to composite this. about it. ent people. They had no conscious- writings. bit with the Sumerian history. I’ve Reg Killingley: We’re going to ness. They didn’t plan for tomorrow. The richest history of Jesus’ period gone into history thoroughly. I could have to take a break there. I’m sorry, Belief in God without the Bible? They barely buried their dead. They is in something that some people teach any history class in the United but you will have time to wrap things Reg Killingley: We go to the next lived in the moment. Not a bad idea, would love to pooh-pooh and say it’s States—overall. I know it altogether. I up, any loose ends, at the end. question. For this question Mr. Diehl right? not accurate because it was written by also know paleontology because Dr. Our next question—the same ques- is first. Can you believe in God with- But human beings have conscious- Jews later. [James] Tabor and I work on archaeol- tion, rather: Why do we think and out believing in the Bible? ness that developed because we could But you have to understand the ogy together. believe that the 66 books are the Dennis Diehl: Absolutely. The God finally speak, and 3,000 years ago Jewish mind-set: to set a thing down I want to tell you what science is. inspired Word of God? that we think is is not the sum total of when we could write we became con- meticulously. From 200 B.C.E., or Science is human guessing with math- whatever God is. We have a limited scious because we could remember. B.C., to 200 C.E., or A.D., is the rich- ematical probability. I’ve discussed it Believing what we’re told sense. I have my prejudices. I have my Human beings—we—are con- est 400 years about Jesus, the temple with other scientists, and the real top Dennis Diehl: The reason why we filters. scious. What is consciousness? Why and all of their beliefs because this is ones that I’ve talked to all agree. believe that the Bible is what it is is Do I believe that a cultically de- are we aware that we’re aware? in the Mishnah, and it was written You start with a hypothesis, which because we’ve been told, and pro- scribed God in the Old Testament who But that’s where I say I hope that I 200 A.D. means a guess. It’s what’s called grammed, to think it. Just because the See DEBATERS DISAGREE, page 28 Connections: MMeemmbbeerr ttooMMeemmbbeerr Issue No. 127 PUBLISHED BY THE JOURNAL: NEWS OF THE CHURCHES OF GOD June 17, 2010 Diary of a perfectly normal vacation

This column is an update of one that ran in begins to scream for breakfast and wakes less time on the beach and more time we will spend together, and everyone is excit- the July 31, 2004, issue of CONNECTIONS. everyone else up. That’s okay, because every- scrounging through the cupboards looking for ed about that. one is anxious to get up and start enjoying the our favorite food that someone else ate. The strain is lifting. Food begins to appear By Darlene Warren week on the beach in a loving, family atmo- We are starting to run low on a few cher- that we haven’t seen for a while. IG SANDY, Texas—Vacations are a sphere. It’s a glorious day and we’re not ished items and begin to hoard cookies and We’ll have an extra-special meal to cele- time for rest, relaxation and rejuvena- going to waste a minute of it. Little Debbies in our own rooms. And can’t brate the ending of a perfectly relaxing and Btion. The word vacation is a derivative After breakfast the little ones are escorted someone please turn that video off? Where rejuvenating week. of the Latin word vacatio, meaning to “get out to the beach by their daddies, while are those kids’ parents? Can’t they see You can’t replicate a vacation like this in out of town.” the women sit down to compose the hidden meaning in that your backyard. You don’t actually have to get out of town, the all-important grocery list movie? Do those young- though. You can vacation in your backyard that will include the fa- ’uns really need to watch Postscript: The oil spill in the Gulf and still have a good time. The problem with vorite food of every mem- two lions “fall in love” In my darkest nightmares I could never staying at home on your vacation is that, ber in the family—Cocoa- over and over? have imagined that our beloved Gulf of Mexi- instead of resting and rejuvenating, you let Puffs for some, all-natural We are not quite co would be threatened to the extent it is yourself be drawn to all the work there is to granola for others and as relaxed as we today. From Louisiana to Florida, people’s be done around the house. It’s best to plan a enough ingredients to cre- were before, but livelihoods are at stake; their way of life is trip, even if you can afford to travel only a ate evening meals for the we’re still having a changing. short distance from home. It’s the rest and entire week. good time. We just I’m a native of the Mississippi coast, so my relaxation that count. We don’t eat out; that’s too need a little space and expensive. Besides, we like earliest memories revolve around the water, Excitement abounds to stay within sight of the time away from these people the beaches, shrimp boats, fishing with cast beach, enjoying every minute relaxing and who have begun to annoy us. nets, going floundering with my brothers and My family used to dodge the financial bul- watching my mother shuck oysters. let by pooling our money and renting a beach visiting with relatives (whom we don’t nor- By day five the inner tubes and air mat- house for a week. mally see every day) in a calm, laid-back tresses have holes in them, and the fishing My parents fed seven kids out of those You have to be careful when vacationing atmosphere. poles have been carried off by the tide. waters. The whole community depended on the Gulf and its richness. with family. Relationships between 20 people No movie to watch living in one house can become strained after Movie debut Later on, when I had kids of my own, they a few days, no matter how well you normally Day two begins okay. Except for the fact The kitchen forays have taken their toll on developed a different appreciation of the get along. that everyone is nursing a sunburn from day the food supply, and some family members region. They didn’t grow up there, so their The first two days are great. Everyone one, it is still a good day. are slipping off to the grocery store and childhood memories are different. Theirs are arrives by late afternoon. There’s all the ex- This will be the day the movie video enters returning with goods that are carried straight more along the line of the vacations I de- citement of inspecting the rental house, the scene. The Lion King will make its debut, through the living room and past the kitchen scribed above. putting dibs on what room you want and and the kids will be entertained even though into private stocks. Silliness aside, the times we spent on the unloading the plastic inner tubes, air mat- they are too sunburned to go outside. Sometime during the night the video turns beach are among the most precious memories tresses and fishing poles. Since The Lion King is the only video that up missing and no one complains. my children have. What’s happening now in You’re all sharing the food you brought made it to the beach, it is rewound and With no movie to watch, the kids spend all the aftermath of the oil-rig explosion of April from home and watching the last rays of sun replayed throughout the day as the little of day six on the beach playing with the only 20, 2010, and the subsequent underwater sink into the sea. You’re resting and relaxing darlings attempt to relax and ease their blis- toys they have left: an empty Cool Whip con- gushing of crude oil sickens and saddens me. with those you haven’t seen in a long time. tered bodies. tainer and a Styrofoam cup, perfect for mak- Let us all pray that God will grant us mercy The first full day of vacation begins as We continue to enjoy ourselves through ing sand castles. and miraculously save our beloved Gulf of soon as the youngest child in the family days three and four even if we are spending It dawns on us that this is the last full day Mexico.

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The Feast site for the Church of HillCountrywith the South Texas Church of God God in 2010 will once again be in Understanding the Windermere in the millennial Lake District of England at the Marchesi Come and experience the Feast of Centre, Windermere. There is plen- Tabernacles where Southern hospitality RReessuurrrreeccttiioonnss ty of inexpensive accommodation and home cooking are in abundance with the located within a short walk of the South Texas Church of God on From the Dead Marchesi Centre. There is also a September 23 –30, 2010. We have good range of hotels, some within plenty of time to hug your babies and Everything you wanted to find out about the sit on the front porch and truly get to a short walk of the lake or actually three resurrections but didn’t have time to research know you. If you are looking for a on the edge of it. Contact the Tour- small, intimate site, this is the place for Is there solid biblical Plan of God without cor- Many are uncertain of ist Information Office,Windermere, Services, proof of there actually rectly understanding the how many resurrections you (60 to 100 Feastgoers). being three? ¶ What hap- resurrections? are described in the Cumbria, for details of accommo- traditional as well as interactive, will pens in each of the three These preceding ques- Bible. Consider the two dation, or check their website: www. be held at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in resurrections? ¶ What tions were addressed at passages that lay out all Canyon Lake, Texas. Pristine lodge rooms with happens to those who live the Grand Junction Feast three in full and in order. BownessOnWindermere.com. during the Millennial Age? of Tabernacles in 2005, Request your free For Feast details, contact me, John kitchenettes, RV and tent camping under big oak trees are available on the same property where services will be ¶ What kinds of beings repeated at a Bible study copy of our new booklet A. Jewell, 2703 Old Gloucester St., will live in each of the four during the Grand Junction that lays out the matter held. Learn all about this great Feast location on the Web at major ages of man? ¶ Will FOT in Palisade, CO, in in considerable detail, London, WC1N 3XX, England, or www. jellystonehillcountry.com. Call the resort toll-free those who never had 2009. From those presen- while examining many email: [email protected]. 877-964-3731 and mention you are with the Church Group. opportunity for salvation tations, an 84-page book- lesser-considered scrip- be provided opportunity? let was compiled to make tures on this important ¶ Can we understand the the subject available to all. biblical teaching! whatnext For more info about this site contact or to request a Feast packet, please contact: Visit our websites: www.ccofgod.org and www.goldensheaves.org Terry Post • P.O. Box 1089 • La Vernia, TX 78121 Or write: Christian Church of God • P.O. Box 2111 • Grand Junction, CO 81502 media.com 210-392-4891 • [email protected]

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Upon This Rock

By Art Mokarow P.O. Box 1197 • Montgomery, TX 77356 • [email protected] • www.GodsPuzzleSolved.com

ow does God encourage His church to grow? thrown into prison for preaching The Gospel. It was at lowing answer He gives. “Our fathers did eat manna in Christ said Peter’s name in Greek is cephas. this time that five thousand men were added to The the desert [a miracle]; as it is written, He gave them The definition of cephas is “a piece of rock” Church (Acts 4:4). That is an actual growth of a church. bread from heaven to eat” (John 6:31). This was a mir- or “a little rock.” “Peter” is cephas in Greek. What was the difference? acle just like Christ gave the four and five thousand. The point is that “Peter” is “a little rock” When they were released and met with The Church, Both were miracles. H(cephas) and “Christ” is “the big rock” (petra). Jesus here is what they prayed: “And now, Lord, behold their Now Jesus discloses the true miracle from heaven related “upon this rock I will build my church.” Quite threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all which does more than feed them. “Then Jesus said unto clear! It wasn’t the small stone (Peter—cephas) that boldness they may speak your word. By stretching forth them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not would build God’s church but Petra, the massive stone. thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the Only Jesus can and will build His done by the name of your holy child Jesus” true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he church (Matthew 16). (Acts 4:29-30). The Apostles knew they which comes down from heaven, and gives life to the Some believe Christ was refer- weren’t responsible or couldn’t make The world” (John 6:32-33). ring to Peter as The Apostle respon- Church of God grow in numbers. Only Christ These are the signs and miracles which are eternal sible to be the one building God’s could make the increase. and not merely helping the flesh. What is the true mira- church. This can’t be. “Cephas” is cle and sign of God? Signs and Wonders “a piece of stone.” So who is “The There is no question that Christians should do human Petra,” “the massive stone” who Christians trying to do human works and work and learn biblical doctrine, but the real miracle builds The Church of God? The charitable deeds are all well and good. But is becoming like Christ! Christ “In You” is the miracle Bible will interpret itself, if you fol- how many of you ask God to increase The of all miracles which brings you to Salvation (Colos- low through. Church through Christ by signs and wonders sians 1:27). The Rock is none other than (such as moving mountains or walking on God does not allow a church to grow by merely Jesus, The Christ (I Corinthians water)? These were some of the real supernat- adding people. They must, first and foremost, grow spir- 10:4 and Matthew 16). Paul simply ural miracles. That would get attention and itually and become like Christ. Christ is the true bread Art Mokarow tells you that that particular rock is make people interested but what real change of God because He speaks every Word of God. That is “Petra your Messiah” and never could be Peter. A min- must take place with these new members? Jesus warned, why Matthew 4:4 warns you to, also, live by every Word ister, a priest or the members always want to do the work “A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign; of God and never just a part of God’s Word. John 6:5 or direct the outcome—as if Christians can decide how and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of acknowledges Jesus is the bread of life. You are to eat God builds His church. Christ is The One who builds the the prophet Jonas. And he left them” (Matthew 16:4). If all of it to become like Christ (Ephesians 4:13-14). church, “But Christ as a son over his own house; whose you pray for God to intervene with a sign for church No one should be debating doctrine to be tossed to house are we, if we hold fast the confidence [faith] and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end.” There is your biblical answer (Hebrews 3:6). ■ Yes, please send the free literature checked below Too many times churches believe Christians must do God’s work. To increase the church is Christ’s responsi- God’s Puzzle Solved Spiritual Growth ■ Who Is God?* God’s Work Faith That Saves ■ The Mark of the Beast* bility. Doing Christian works is fine. Helping the poor Revelation Uncovered God’s Kingdom ■ The True Churches of God* and orphans and preaching the gospel are great in God’s Christ In You History of Revelation ■ The Mystery of God* sight and are, actually, your responsibility. The Great Apostasy The Wedding Feast ■ History of God’s Law* The White Throne Judgment Morality and Economics ■ The Christian Sabbath* Jesus told His Disciples, “But you shall receive Discovering God What’s It All About? ■ Eighth Head of the Beast* power, after that the Holy Ghost [Spirit] is come upon Faith With Works ■ God’s Old & New Covenant* ■ Testimony of the Messiah* ■ God’s Story Tr uths, Creeds and Doctrines* ■ Bible Study—God’s Way* you: and you shall be witnesses unto me both in ■ God’s Sabbath and Holy Days God’s Two Priesthoods* ■ A Minister of God* Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria and unto ■ God’s Will What Is Idolatry?* ■ World History and the Bible* the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). This is The Satan’s Image ■ Sons of God* ■ Gospel of Christ which is The Church of God’s prima- God’s Plan of Salvation The Temple of God* *Not yet available (in various stages of editing)

ry commission. This is what you must witness. But it is Send to: Art Mokarow Your name and address: Jesus who allows the church to grow both physically in P.O. Box 1197 numbers as well as spiritually. No one else can accom- Montgomery, TX 77356 plish it. [email protected] www.GodsPuzzleSolved.com Your Email: God Uses Christ For His Miracles A biblical example of physical growth of The Church growth, it must mean some sign which changes people. and fro but being an example to the world. As of God was Pentecost, where three thousand were added When Christ returned from Capernaum by boat, the Christians, you should exemplify Christ. Then God will in one day. Why? Because Peter evangelized by The thousands He fed miraculously said, “Rabbi, when increase His church because you belong to Christ. Then Power of God’s Holy Spirit by speaking in the different camest thou hither”? (John 6:25). Here was his answer: God will increase His church because you are growing languages of the people (tongues) (Acts 2). “Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto spiritually to be like Jesus. That is God’s answer for This growth didn’t come by human works of charity you, you seek me, not because you saw the miracles, but physical and spiritual church growth. You, by human or by other Christian deeds. On Pentecost the three thou- because you did eat of the loaves [of bread], and were works, are doing good, but only Christ “In You” is what sand increase was by God doing the work through Christ filled” (John 6:26). causes church growth. You, as a Christian, must pray as He promised in John 14:16-17. Doing human works ought to be done by God’s peo- always and be a witness of Christ “In You” by keeping Another event occurred when The Apostles were ple, but what is really an important miracle is the fol- your eye on Christ and behaving just like Him.

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Resources Obituaries Obituaries ONNECTIONS runs classifieds: (501) 915-8843. Her E-mail ad- Virtual Church, Ken Westby, every Sabbath, Paul Edwin Goddard, 84, of Niles, Mich., Emily Belle Barker Walls, 84, of Gladewater, help wanted, for sale, pen dresses are prayerlines@sdcog. 11 a.m. Pacific, 1 p.m. central, 2 p.m. east- passed away on March 22, 2010, at his resi- Texas, died May 1, 2010, pals, prayer requests and org and [email protected]. ern, (916) 233-0562, www.godward.org. dence with his family by his side. Paul was after a long illness. Mrs. C born Sept. 18, 1925, in Chicago to the late E. Walls was born Nov. 10, more. Send ads (including prayer As space is available, requests to Www.creatorscovenant.org., P.O. Box 1002, South Pasadena, CA 91030. George and Valborg (Lillegard) Goddard. 1925, in Bridgeport, Ind. requests and obituaries) to CONNEC- Mrs. Halley will also be printed in Paul marred the love of his life, Lulu (Cecrle) She is survived by her TIONS (see the address and more CONNECTIONS. each month. ICY, P.O. 208, Pocahontas, AR 72455. Goddard, April 15, 1955, at a ceremony in husband, Don Walls Sr.; South Bend. He was preceded in death by his a son, Don Walls Jr.; information in the box elsewhere in When submitting prayer requests Jan Aaron Young, [email protected]; parents and a sister, Claire Stephens. Paul is articles: http://23jan.spaces.live.com. two grandchildren; and CONNECTIONS). You may also send on behalf of others (whether you survived by his wife Lu of 54 years; three seven great-grandchil- prayer requests to Rosy Halley at send them directly to CONNECTIONS The Ezekiel Watchman, P.O. Box 8819, sons, Kenneth (Alma) Goddard of Telolopan, dren. Mrs. Walls was Modesto, CA 95357, ezekielwatchman.org, Mexico, Martin (Kay) Goddard of Florence, buried in Chilton Ceme- 24 Jumilla Ln., Hot Springs Vil- or to Mrs. Halley), please do so Mont., and James (Carolyn) Goddard of Emily Walls (209) 772-0737 or (209) 524-1304. tery, Big Sandy, on May 5 lage, Ark. 71909, U.S.A., telephone with their permission. Elkhart, Ind.; one daughter, Jean (Jeff) Jonas Zwbrt89, P.O. Box 80338, No. 6833, of Niles, Mich.; 11 grandchildren and four with Wayne Cole officiating. Chicago, IL 60680, [email protected]. great-grandchildren; and a sister, Virginia Carrol Dee Bryant, 69, of Hawkins, Texas, Henk Jens, P.O. Box 121, Belmore, N.S.W. (Norman) Snow of Florida. Paul served his died peacefully at his home May 9, 2010. A History Lesson From Joshua 2192, Australia. www.rightly-dividing.net. country during World War II in the Army. Paul Mr. Bryant was born April 30, 1941. He was enjoyed spending time on the computer and a member of the Living Radio4Living.com, whatnextmedia.com, had a great love for German shepherds. ASDFQKNBJALCYT I AHVSS [email protected]. Church of God. Survivors Jeanie Snook passed away March 24, 2010. include his wife, Valerie ROTLOAOEJEKQS I ENWBA I Robert Schmid, www.logoslogic.info, RGS@ Jeanie was born in West Virginia Oct. 12, Bryant; sons Layne Bry- OGWMACO I GLBNCENRYEBA socal.rr.com. 1928. She graduated from Clay-Betel High ant and Isaac Bryant 7th Day Sabbath Churches of God, 7thday. School and in 1948 married Charles Dean, Powell; daughters Lyrae JEHNAOHSYYOUNGTVAOR I web.officelive.com. who was killed in a construction accident in Pinkston and LaTasha 1956. She is survived by her sons Kevin and Barrett; grandchildren YPAJX IOEYTPLSHTI IHAG South Texas Church of God, Terry Post, P.O. Aaron Dean; her husband of 48 years, Jim Alayna Peters, Aaron Box 1089, La Vernia, TX 78121, terrypost Snook; seven grandchildren, April Dean- Carroll Bryant Pinkston, Ariel Vest and VCJORDANDHGTY I VYRZHV @aireplastics.com. Wishek, Tania Dean-Frampton, Aaron Dean Hope Barrett; great-grand- SVSEMSET I TT IHUTNCOAT Understanding the resurrections of the dead, Jr., Crystal Dean, Trisha Cutter, Amy Cutter son Caleb Peters; and sister June Wilkens. www.goldensheaves.com. and Brad Cutter; and four great-grandchil- Mrs. Bryant receives mail at P.O. Box 920, YECHRJGIOSOWI BOEECMP dren. Funeral services were March 27 with Hawkins, TX 75765. Feast of Tabernacles 2010 in Harrison, Ark., Aaron Dean and Leroy Neff officiating. YQTAO I RLSCXFQMAOSUAA sponsored by Church of God International Dorothy Armstrong Mattson, 89, of Sun City, and United Christian Ministries. Ron Elkins, Chief Master Sgt. Herbert Early Morrow, 80, Ariz., died May 10, 2010, XQC I ARCGI RGASHI TESHV (870) 653-6043. of Prescott, Ark., passed away April 16, after a long illness. She is HCFMVSNHUWPMVEWUCAMF 2010, at his home. He was born Dec. 21, survived by her husband, Identifying the One True God and Jesus 1929, in Nevada County to Thomas Wesley Vern Mattson, daughter Christ, www.cgministry-inchrist.org. and Mary Alma Harris Morrow. Mr. Morrow Ginger and son Danny. XQXUE I I EOAARONQKADOK was retired from the U.S. Air Force after PITIDHHITKQOEHLURESY Free, complete set of Children’s Bible Story. serving his country for 22 years. He was a She was preceded in You pay S&H. (573) 392-8783. recipient of the Bronze death by her brother Rich- LIORVQCVRLORDDHLUSED In search of someone who would like to buy Star while serving in Viet- ard Armstrong in 1958, her property in the Triangle area, North Carolina, nam. Mr. Morrow was a mother, Loma Armstrong, EFGNSHOECDNPDSHNYES I who could permit me to make payments on it Minister, a member of the Dorothy Mattson in 1967, her father, Her- TMAALABOHLCWOBDSGRCL to own it in the range of $1,000-$1,500 a Church of God Sabbath bert W. Armstrong, in 1986, month. I am an owner of a tutoring/editing Day and the VFW and a her sister, Beverly Gott, in 1992 and her PER I ZZ I TESYJAPFGETFV business, working on Ph.D. in education and former school-bus driver. brother Garner Ted Armstrong in 2003. instruct part time at a college. Can’t borrow He was preceded in Robert Keith Luckabaugh, 65, of Bowling ALQJCCRNSZULNAHORAKA money due to destroyed credit. Nervous death by his parents; a Green, Ky., died May 27, 2010. The brother, Hubert Morrow; YQMFVCMKABAFEZGOEBXN about the economy so seeking a way to be Baltimore native was born June 16, 1944. safer. No family. and five sisters, Thelma Herb Morrow Lloyd, Clarice Theobolt, He was retired from architectural construc- BHDPFEKGUKHPWAWDHCDP tion. He was a member of Living Hope Prayer requests Marie Montgomery, Evelyn Latch and Bertie Loraine Morrow. Herb is survived by his Baptist Church and of the church choir at Aaron Canaan Hittites Jebusites Nahor Francis Adams, Jacksonville, Texas, area, re- wife, JoAn Singleton Morrow, Prescott; two Living Hope. He led a small group Bible study Abraham Desert Hivites Jericho Perizzites covering from a head injury caused by a fall. sons, Jon Michael “Mike” Morrow and Sharon, Prescott, Mark Alan Morrow and and was the father of one Jordan Patsy Fisher, Tyler, Texas, area, diagnosed Amorites Egypt hornet Red Sea Christy, Prescott; three daughters; Mary son and the foster father Joshua with a fast-growing brain tumor. Balaam Esau Isaac Shechem Katherine “Kathy” Buffington and Bill, of several children. He Lord James Moran, Tyler, Texas, colon cancer. Edmond, Okla., Pamela “Pam” Diane Mor- was a performer of the Balak Girgashites Jacob Moses Terah row, Prescott, Joy “Rae” Lathrop and Jerry musical arts. He was a Judy Cline, last stages of cancer. “Cowboy” Morrow, Magnet Cove; two sis- loyal husband, father, Laura Moran, Tyler, Texas, suffering from ters, Joy Rhea Slatton and Lymon, Delight, son, brother, uncle and pneumonia. Ark., Carolyn Palmer and Johnny, Prescott; mentor to many. He loved 19 grandchildren and eight great-grandchil- to teach and loved his Robert Jon Porter, Mountain Grove, Mo., recovering dren and several nieces and nephews. many friends and pets. Luckabaugh from heart surgery. Funeral services were April 18 with Wynn He was a son of the late Skelton officiating. Herb is greatly missed. Harry Franklin Luckabaugh and Helen Reed Why do you Obituaries Mrs. Morrow receives mail at 133 Nevada Luckabaugh. He was preceded in death by 68, Prescott, AR 71857. Norma Dick, 84, of Hawkins, Texas, died Feb. two sisters, Joan Chiarenza and Audrey tithe on money? 18, 2010. Mrs. Dick was born Sept. 16, 1925, Avon Maxine Neff, 86, of Big Sandy, Texas, Luckabaugh; and a brother, Ray Lucka- in Cokeville, Wyo. She was died April 23, 2010. Born Feb. 19, 1924, in baugh. He was a 1970 graduate of Am- Few of us have taken a closer look at the a homemaker and mem- Williams, Ore., she was a bassador College, Big Sandy. Expressions ber of the United Church of homemaker and member of sympathy may take the form of contribu- Scriptures to see what it really says about God. Survivors include her of the United Church of tions to Hospice of Southern Kentucky, 5872 sons, Robert Dick, Vancou- God. Survivors include Scottsville Rd., Bowling Green, KY 42104. tithing. Honestly, where does the Bible say, or ver, Wash., Ronald Dick, her husband, Leroy Neff; Survivors include his wife of 37 years, even hint, that we are to tithe on the money we Lexington, Ky., and Randal sons Larry and Donald Marcia Tomes Luckabaugh; a son, Bretton Dick, Seattle, Wash.; sev- Neff; and daughter, Carol Davis Keith Luckabaugh, and his son’s earn? What truly is Biblical “increase”? Few doc- en grandchildren; six great- Hegar. Graveside ser- future intended, Devan Haulk, both of Shep- grandchildren; a brother, vices were at Gladewater herdsville; two sisters, Jean Luckabaugh of Laurel Porter, St. George, trines have been as badly misrepresented as the Norma Dick Memorial Park with Les Baltimore and Betty Raymond and her hus- Utah; and a sister, Beulah McCullough officiating. Maxine Neff doctrine of tithing. If you now tithe on money, on Liechty, North Las Vegas, Nev. Mrs. Dick’s band, Bob, of Berlin, Md.; mother and father- husband, Ray Dick, died in 2004. Peter W.T. Whitting, 63, of Pikesville, Md., in-law, Edmon and Vera Tomes, of Browns- your paycheck, then you owe it to yourself and died May 1, 2010, at his home. Born June 4, ville; four brothers-in-law, Pete Chiarenza, your family to get the facts. Read this detailed Loren Stuart, 93, of Joplin, Mo., passed 1946, in Adelaide, South Australia, he was Frank Tomes, Arlon Tomes and Marvin away on March 16, 2010. Loren had fallen Wilson; four sisters-in-law, Renetta Wilson, and never fully recovered from a broken hip. the son of the late Thomas and Rose study of tithing which has been freeing people from the false teach- (Fraser) Whitting. Peter was the husband of Teri Tomes and Alvetta Tomes and Betty He was preceded in death several years ago Mae Luckabaugh. ings on tithing for over 20 years. (Suggested donation, $3 ppd) by his wife, Kay. Charlotte Ann Whitting (nee Cordell). Mr. Whitting pastored the New Life Fellowship Camilla E. Gill, 88, of Kunkletown, Pa., died Fredonia White Sikes Spears passed away congregation of Baltimore for the last 10 March 18, 2010, just two months short of her June 6, 2010. She was the wife of Gerald years of his 38 years in ministry. He was an Gill. They observed their 47th wedding anni- 94th birthday. Fredonia was an East Texas accomplished artist and an adjunct profes- versary in March. Born in native, born at home near Big Sandy to Joseph sor of painting and drawing at Frederick A sunset-to-sunset weekly Dial White and Fredonia Revill on May 20, Community College. Besides his wife, he is Princeton, N.J., Camilla 1916. Following high-school graduation, she survived by his sons, Thomas, Marc, was a daughter of the late Sabbath is not in the Bible! married Thomas Brewster Sikes, and together Jonathan and Benjamin Whitting; a grand- James and Edith (Drake) they had one son, Thomas daughter, Victoria; and a brother Michael Harris. She had been a Bryant Sikes, in 1936. Wid- and wife Carolyn Whitting of Australia. clerk typist at Line Mate- It is an old story: assuming a belief comes from the Bible, when in owed just 18 months later, rials (now McGraw Edi- Fredonia returned to school, Pat Plante, 74, of Tyler, Texas, passed away son) in Zanesville, Ohio, fact the Bible says nothing of the sort. Most of us came out of earning a bachelor’s degree April 27, 2010. She suffered with COPD for for 10 years. She was a and later a master’s degree a long time. She was the mother of five chil- member of the Church of Protestantism because we saw exactly that. The in library science from Texas dren and a longtime member of CGI, CEM God. In addition to her truth, the Scriptural truth, is the sunset-to-sunset Woman’s University. Prior to and ICG. Camilla Gill her graduate studies, she husband, she is survived weekly Sabbath doctrine is just ANOTHER ONE of taught school or served as Delbert McCurley of Chickasha, Okla., by two sons, Dave Havir of Big Sandy, Texas, and John Havir of Huntington, Fredonia Spears librarian in Pritchett and passed away April 30, 2010. Delbert attend- those beliefs that has no Biblical basis whatever! other area schools. For ed the Fellowship Church of God in Okla- W.Va.; two daughters, Norma Salamah of Shocking though this may be, it is the provable more than 20 years she served as library direc- homa City, Okla., along with his wife, Viola. Quakertown, Pa., and Camilla Kiechel of tor at Kilgore College. In 1970 she was recruit- Mrs. McCurley receives mail at 1224 CR Allentown, Pa.; nine grandchildren; and nine truth. For nearly 20 years the book, The Scrip- ed to be librarian for Grayson College in 1370, Chickasha, OK 73018. great-grandchildren. Sherman, Texas. There she met and married tural Weekly Sabbath is NOT from Sunset-to- Floyd Dean Spears in 1971. Fredonia was a member of the Daughters of Texas, the Amer- Sunset, has shown the vital truth on this crucial ican Library Association and the Disciples of subject. The Biblical facts and history do not lie. Christ Church. In the early 1970s she joined the Church of God, for which her husband was a lay radio4living.com Read the facts for yourself. Is Lev. 23:32 really preacher. She is survived by her grandchildren, Preaching a message of warning and hope to the nations. Cashion Sikes Godfrey of Longview, Si radio4living includes . . . proof of a sunset-to-sunset weekly Sabbath? Could it be an ancient Blackstock Sikes and wife Dr. Anitaben Tailor of Babylonian method of reckoning the day gradually replaced the Arlington, Va.; a great-grandson, Graham God- What Next broadcast ¥ Letter from London ¥ Making Sense of Life ¥ frey; and a daughter-in-law, Cherry Sikes of Creation v Evolution ¥ Your Questions Answered ¥ Weekly News Review ¥ observance of the true Biblical day? This book is a must read. Order Longview. Fredonia’s husband, Floyd Spears, Programming changes and updated each week. yours today. (Suggested donation $3, ppd) and son, Tommy Sikes, preceded her in death. Radio4living is also streamed throughout the United States Wanda Van Westen, 87, passed away May via the Mobile Broadcast Network. 27, 2010. She is survived by a son, John, of Web site: whatnextmedia.com ¥ Email: [email protected] Tyler, Texas. Regular mail to BCM What Next (Attn: John A. Jewell), London, WD1N 3XX, England To order these books write: Marie D’Avila, a member of the Houston Listeners and readers in the United States write to: Independent Church of God, passed away PO Box 30332, Little Rock, AR 72260 ICY and was interred on April 13 in a private cer- P.O. Box 208 • Pocahontas, AR 72455 emony. Her husband, Paul, receives mail at Tell your friends about radio4living, the 24/7 radio station 10307 Larston Rd., Houston TX 77040. on the Internet serving the Church of God

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL 16 ★ ★ ★ THIS PAGE CONTAINS PAID ADVERTISING ★ ★ ★ Issue No. 127 (June 17, 2010) Where Is the... True Church today? Jesus Christ said, “I will build My Church.” He did not say “Churches,” denominations, “sects.” He said the gates of hell would not prevail against that Church. Somewhere that original true Church exists today. But WHERE? WHICH? . . .” (WHERE Is the True Church booklet, Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong). “The Feast of Firstfruits” The Feast of Firstfruits (Pentecost) 2010! This Festival pictures the calling and selec- tion of the BRIDE to become the wife of Jesus Christ. The wedding will fully take place at the time of Christ’s coming, which is pictured by the Feast of Trumpets.

Thrill Beyond Human Comprehen- himself with ornaments, and as a BRIDE the blemished spots from their wedding gar- Numerous conservative writers and speakers sion—The anticipated thought of this adorns herself with her jewels” (Isaiah ments through the WASHING of the WORD make known the difficult times this nation and the A wonderful coming time should be so 61:10; Ezekiel 16:6-14). (Ephesians 5:25-27). This is best described by world have entered unlike no other in this end-age thrilling for the members of God’s Church that And with Christ’s wife at His side—“For as what Jesus Christ said in the following parable: with the forecast that the sun is very close to set- each one should be focusing fully on the prepa- the earth brings forth its bud, as the gar- Christ’s Warning Parable—“. . . A certain ting on the human reasoning of an evil age ruled ration for this WEDDING by the CLEANSING of our den causes the things that are sown in it to man made A GREAT SUPPER and invited by Satan the devil unless there is a dramatic Bridal garments by the WASHING of God’s spring forth, so the Lord God will cause many, and sent his servant (our time change for the better (Galatians 1:4; John 12:31). Word—His laws and His teachings. righteousness and praise to spring forth today—Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong) at sup- Satan’s very strong deception is in evidence The Apostle Paul wrote—“Christ also before all the nations” (Isaiah 61:11). per time to say to those who were invit- on the whole world (Revelation 12:9). This LOVED the Church and gave Himself for The Marriage Supper Follows—“And in ed, ‘Come, for all things are now ready!’ DECEPTION is also in evidence on the 450-plus her that He might SANCTIFY and CLEANSE this mountain (Mt. Zion) the LORD of But they all with one accord began to corporate Churches of God; ministers and her with the WASHING of water by the hosts will make for all people a FEAST of make excuses . . . I say to you that NONE of members, who are rejecting their invitation to WORD that He might PRESENT HER to choice pieces, a FEAST of wines on the lees these men who were INVITED shall taste become the Bride of Jesus Christ. Himself a glorious Church, NOT having (the finest in quality, John 2:10) of FAT things my supper” (Luke 14:15-18, 24). It should be realized, as individuals and as a spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but (Nehemiah 8:10), full of marrow, of well- Through this parable, Jesus Christ is speak- Church, that the beginning of the time of sor- that she might be holy and without blem- refined wines on the lees (margin: wines ing of those who are refusing to come under His rows, in nature, as well as on the political scene, ish” (Ephesians 5:25-27). matured by the sediment). (Isaiah 25:6.) government into His one Church to be with were prophesied to fully befall both Israel and This awesome calling and selection that each Christ’s Loving Caution—“Let your waists those who are faithfully proclaiming the Gospel, the Church of God (Matthew 24:8)—having one has been given to actually be numbered be girded (adorned—wedding garment) and the Ezekiel warning message, and all of the doc- been forewarned over many years by God’s among the FIRSTFRUITS is beyond the limits of your LAMPS BURNING (Matthew 25:1-13); and trinal teachings, with no exceptions, nor liberal- late apostle, and the Elijah to come, is now in human comprehension!—Faithful men and you yourselves be like men who WAIT for izing any of them, while crying out for repen- evidence (Ezekiel 6:11; Leviticus 26:14-39; women who will experience this preliminary their Master, when He will return from tance of their sins for rejecting His laws and Deuteronomy 28:15-68)! harvest upon the return of Jesus Christ! the (preparation for the) wedding, that teachings (Isaiah 58:1-2; Luke 19:27). These prophesied times will also affect terribly Then the Bride (Firstfruits) will be when He comes Only the FEW will be Accepted as His Bride— God’s Church for forsaking Him (Matthew 25:10- gathered together from the four winds and knocks (for his “Then one said to Him (Christ), ‘Lord, 12; Jeremiah 23:1-2; Ezekiel 34:1-10). And, unless by the angels and ascend up into the Bride) they may are there few who are saved?’ And He we are on track and clinging to God in truth, while clouds to meet with Jesus Christ as He (eagerly) OPEN to said to them, ‘STRIVE TO ENTER through the vigilantly watching with prayerful understanding returns to this earth in all power and Him immediately” narrow gate, for many, I say to you, WILL in view of those prophesied horrors (Luke 21:29- great glory (Matthew 24:30-31; I Thes- (Luke 12:35-36; SEEK to enter and will NOT be able. When 36), we could very well die from either the famine salonians 4:16-18). And so shall we Revelation 3:20). once the Master of the house has risen and disease epidemics (100 million in the United ever be with the Lord as His loving wife An Awesome Bless- up and SHUT THE DOOR [Matthew 25:10, as States alone, Ezekiel 5:12), or end up in the at His side. ing—“Then He said did God the door to the Ark of Noah, Genesis Great Tribulation, and endure a martyr’s The Time of Christ to Accept His to me, ‘Write: “Bless- 7:13, 16], ‘and YOU begin to stand OUTSIDE death (Revelation 6:9-11). This will be the price Bride—“And I heard, as it were, ed are those who and KNOCK at the door, saying, “Lord, that will have to be paid due to the rejection of the voice of a great multitude . . . are called to the Lord, OPEN FOR US,” and He will answer the wedding invitations yet being extended. saying, ‘Halleluiah! For the Lord WEDDING SUPPER of and say to you, “I do NOT know you, There is an urgent need to prove from Scrip- God Omnipotent reigns! Let us the LAMB!” ’ And he where you are from [Churches He does not ture where the remnant is of the Philadelphia be glad and rejoice and give Him said to me, “These recognize as His Church] . . . depart from Era of God’s true Church, that Jesus Christ is glory, for the MARRIAGE of the are the true say- Me, all you workers of iniquity,” ‘There now using and then become an active part of it, LAMB has come, and His WIFE has ings of God” ’ ” will be weeping and gnashing of teeth . . . for it is only the members of it who will be count- made herself ready.’ And to her (Revelation 19:9). [Luke 13:22-30]. ‘For many are called, ed worthy to escape those soon-coming horrors! was granted to be arrayed in fine Jesus Christ Will but FEW are chosen’ ” (Matthew 22:14). linen, clean and bright, for the Serve His Bride— Invitations to the Sardis and the Laodicean (They can be easily identified by the study fine linen is the righteous acts of “Blessed are those Church Eras—“Behold, I stand at the door of the 6th Church Era (Rev. 3:7-13.) Paraphrasing the Warn- the saints” (Revelation 19:6-9). servants whom the Master, when He and KNOCK. If anyone HEARS My voice and ings of Jesus Christ: Christ’s Acceptance of His Bride—“Then I comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I OPENS the door, I will come in to him and “It will only be those looked, and BEHOLD, a LAMB standing on say to you that HE WILL GIRD HIMSELF and DINE with him, and he with Me” (Reve- who STRIVE to enter Mount Zion, and with Him 144,000, hav- have them sit down to eat, and will come lation 3:20). that Narrow Door ing His Father’s Name written on their and SERVE them” (Luke 12:37). to Salvation will be foreheads.... These are the ones who The Time Draws Nigh The Invitation from Christ Declined counted worthy to were NOT defiled with women (apostatiz- An Added Urgent Warning from Christ— be accepted as His ing Churches), for they are virgins. These Invitations Now Extended—“. . . The “Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast Bride; the added are the ones who FOLLOW the LAMB wher- Kingdom of Heaven is like a certain king what you have, that no one may take your blessing will be WEDDING CROWN ever He goes (John 10:4-5). These were who arranged a for his son, and . He who overcomes, I will make PROTECTION from redeemed from among men, being FIRST- sent out his servants to call those who him A PILLAR in the Temple of My God, and the Great Trib- FRUITS to God and to the Lamb. And in were INVITED to the wedding; and they he shall go out no more. I will write on him ulation” (Luke their mouth was found NO DECEIT, for they were NOT willing to come” (Matthew 22:1- the NAME of My Father (Born into the Family 13:22-30; John are without fault before the throne of 5 8-14; Revelation 3:20). of God and taking on the Family Name, Elohim, 10:1-7; Luke 21:36). God” (Revelation 14:1, 4-5). John 10:34), and the NAME of the city of My The Time is Near—“Behold, the Day of The Unwillingness to WASH the God, the New Jerusalem (our new home to My heartfelt plea to all members is to please the LORD is coming . . . And in that Day Wedding Garments which the Bridegroom is taking His Bride, consider where you now are—and where you His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives Many Members Decline The Invitation to Revelation 21), which comes down out of should be. It could mean the difference! Time is ... thus the LORD my God will come, and Attend the Wedding—Based on Scriptural teach- heaven from My God. And I will write on running out! all the saints (His Bride) with You” ings, thousands of members are declining him My NEW NAME (A new identity for each one Your caring friend and servant in Christ (Zechariah 14:1-2, 5, 9). Christ’s invitation to become the Bride of Jesus to connect with the Family Name as is now with Jesus our Lord and Savior, JOY Beyond Human Comprehension—“I Christ by refusing to be faithful to all of the doc- families)” (Revelation 3:11-12). Don Billingsley will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul trinal teachings Jesus Christ restored within His shall be joyful in my God; for He who has Philadelphia Era of His Church through His late The quotes above are intended for educational purposes only. Entire contents © 2010 The Church of God. All Rights CLOTHED me with the garments of salva- apostle, and His promised Elijah, Mr. Herbert W. Reserved. The copyright subsisting in material quoted in this publication and trademarks appearing in this publication tion, He has covered me with the robe of Armstrong (Malachi 4:4-6; Matthew 17:10-11). belong to the respective owners thereof, and no claim of ownership therein is made by The Church of God. righteousness, as a BRIDEGROOM decks In this manner they are refusing to cleanse

http://bodyofchristonline.us • http://cog-ff.com • http://www.ezekielwatchman.org P. O. Box 8819 ¥ Modesto, CA 95357 ¥ (209) 772-0737 ¥ (209) 524-1304

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL Issue No. 127 (June 17, 2010) ★ ★ ★ THIS PAGE CONTAINS PAID ADVERTISING ★ ★ ★ 17 The Ezekiel WATCHMAN Warning Message Warnings from God through His Promised Elijah of the Approaching End-Time!!!

“Behold, I will send you Elijah immediate future is of your own choosing. You can The Teacher God Sent to His People the prophet before the coming of take this lightly, let it slip from mind . . . If you do, you Mr. Armstrong wrote: “I will say this. Everything that you have now read YOUR FATE—and I say to you on author- people have and believe, directly or indirectly, came from me. I the great and dreadful Day of the ity of God Almighty that it is absolutely SURE!” wonder if you realize that? In other words, putting all these of LORD” (Malachi 4:5). The promise by God to send the Elijah at the end- things together, into the various major doctrines, is something time has been fulfilled: “Behold, I will send you you didn’t have to do. It was done for you. By Alton “Don” Billingsley Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great “Take the subject of the Sabbath. Take the subject of God’s he startling realization of the approaching and dreadful Day of the LORD” (Malachi 4:5). law. Take the subject of law and grace. Take any theological sub- DEMISE of America and Britain appears to be Note the following writing with the TERRIBLE WARN- ject or Biblical subject, and you receive the doctrines that you so very close as to be very frightening! News believe; all came from me. Now, how did I get it? ING that sums up the end-time prophetic Scriptures— articles are alarming due to what is now being “A minister that we have had to put out of the Church witnessed along with predictions by knowledge- with promise by Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong: “. . . came to see me. He thought that maybe he could save Table and professional people based on the increase of AMERICANS ARE UNDER A CURSE, AND NOW HEADING the situation by more powerful earthquakes, tsunamis, droughts, food RAPIDLY INTO NATIONAL talking to me, and scarcity, floods, a volcano erupting in Iceland that shut DESTRUCTION!” unfortunately he down air traffic in Europe, and serious predictions of “And America today is didn’t. But he others in this nation, along with wars and threats of wars breaking every order of said, ‘Well, Mr. between nations, etc. (Matthew 24:7)! God’s compact, and al- Armstrong you There is also the political scene with many people ready beginning to suffer got all you believe gathering in growing numbers to show peaceful dissatis- EVERY CURSE listed as a just from the Sar- faction with the nation’s leaders because of their move penalty. GOD SAVE AMER- dis Church. You into socialism, increase in taxes, immigration, health- ICA! God help America to just took what care, etc. WAKE UP, and COME TO they had and Wa r nings are made known about other groups who HER SENSES! AMERICA TO- memorized it.’ are not peaceful—and because of possibly their own rea- DAYSTANDS DOOMED! Now, that is ab- sons could by violent acts bring about a possible revolu- solutely untrue. tion within this country about the time of the coming “How YOU “I did not get one elections. The prediction is this could result in martial Personally May doctrine from the law being declared and no elections would be held. Escape Sardis Church. I [http://www.examiner.com/x-37620-Conservative- “The destruction did not get one doc- Examiner~y2010m4d13-Special-army-unit-ready-to-be- will come from the trine from the Sev- deployed-on-American-soil-just-before-Nov-elections] place we least expect. enth-day Adventist Our many national problems have led some conserv- Not Russia, but from Church, the Sev- ative leaders to believe the end of this nation is not that Germany, and a United enth Day Baptists. I far away—imploding within itself just as did Judea in 70 A.D. Europe—the Europe didn’t get one doctrine from the Quaker church in which I was NEW BUCHANAN BOOK DECLARES ‘END we are helping today. raised up from birth. Neither did I get a single doctrine from the OF AMERICA’—“America is coming apart, de- “You CAN DELIVER Methodists, the Baptists, the Roman Catholics or any other composing, and . . . the likelihood of her survival YOUR OWN SOUL FROM church. I did not get one bit of what I have taught you and of as one nation . . . is improbable—and impossible THE TRIBULATIONS the truth that you all are privileged to know and understand if America continues on her current course,” AND THE PLAGUES TO because it is the truth. I did not get it from MAN. I did not get it declares Pat Buchanan. “For we are on a path to COME! (Deuteron- in any theological school. I was not taught it by any human national suicide” (Sunday, Nov. 25, 2007). omy 28; Leviticus 26) being or any group of human beings.” Consider how much worse the national scene has “‘WATCH ye there- To read and view many of the recorded works (re- come to be since his writing in 2007. God and prayer fore’—yes, WATCH stored teachings), please go to our following website: have been rejected. It was declared by the president this is no world events fulfill http://www.herbertwarmstrong.us/. longer a Christian nation! Yet other religions can be prac- prophecy—”and The Philadelphia Remnant ticed with the excuse of not wanting to offend them. PRAY ALWAYS that ye The Warning from God’s Apostle may be accounted worthy to ESCAPE ALL THESE To continually be informed of the warnings that are THINGS that shall come to pass, and to stand coming much closer together and the destruction that is Over 25 years ago God’s apostle, and the Elijah of the before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:36). So warned soon to strike the nations of Israel, and the Church of end-time, Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong via Bible AND PROMISED, Jesus Christ!” God, we offer freely a subscription to our bi-monthly prophecy foresaw the many problems this nation is fac- It is utterly tragic that hardly magazine. It can also be read on our website ing today and wrote the following in his Booklet, pages anyone in the House of Joseph (www.cog-ff.com). 1, 18), 1975 in Prophecy (revised edition 1956): seems to be that alarmed, even in “Today this world is changing—fast! Un- view of what they come to know The Three Elijahs precedented events are shaking the world through the news media about Though the first 12 updated chapters of the proposed already. Yet what we have seen is mild compared the state of this country and book of The Three Elijahs can still be read in serial to the catastrophic happenings that will rock Britain. form on our website (www.cog-ff.com), hopefully the this world (Page 1) . . . Sadly, even the thousands of complete book will be available to read in its entirety in “IT’S LATERTHAN YOU THINK! . . . Before members of the corporate the near future. we realize it, we’ll find ourselves in the throes of Churches of God feel content God had ample reason for these three men to have FAMINE, and uncontrollable epidemics of DISEASE and secure not realizing the terri- the same name as Elijah—though John and Mr. ... Along with the coming famine and disease ble fate of the Great Tribula- Armstrong had their own names, they were “. . . to go epidemic will come an invasion of billions of tion facing them—unless there is forth before Him (Jesus Christ) in the spirit and crop-destroying bugs, insects, and locusts repentance and a repentant power of Elijah” (Luke 1:16-17). The identity of the (grasshoppers) on a scale never before to devas- return to the true teachings as restored within God’s end-time Elijah is proven with Biblical proof and by his tate a land. You’ll read of this in the first chapter Church by Jesus Christ through His late apostle. fruits. of Joel.” The MYSTERY OF THE AGES Mailing address: P. O. Box 8819, Modesto, CA When we view where we are in time, and now seeing 95357; Phone: (209) 772-0737; 524-1304; http:// what was made known by him during those years of his If we really believe that Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong bodyofchristonline.us/ http://cog-ff.com http:// life-time mission, leaves no question but that Mr. was God’s apostle, and the promised Elijah, then it is www.ezekielwatchman.org/ Armstrong was THE PROMISED ELIJAH of the end- incumbent for each of us to USE this book with the Scriptures to keep free from the very strong deception that time—sent to warn Israel and the Church of God The quotes and pictures above are intended for educational purposes only. Entire before the time in which we have now entered, and soon continues to be upon the 450-plus Corporate Churches contents © 2009 The Church of God. All Rights Reserved. The copyright subsisting in the plagues and warfare will strike with deadly force! of God. This Book will also enable the scattered mem- material quoted in this publication and trademarks appearing in this publication belong to the respective owners thereof and no claim of ownership therein is made 1975 In Prophecy, page 30, Mr. Herbert W. bers to know where the Congregation is that Jesus by The Church of God. Armstrong: “. . . YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED! Your Christ is yet using to do His end-time Work.

http://bodyofchristonline.us • http://cog-ff.com • http://www.ezekielwatchman.org P. O. Box 8819 ¥ Modesto, CA 95357 ¥ (209) 772-0737 ¥ (209) 524-1304

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campaign contributions. Congressman A.L. Miller, a former physi- cian, said the leader in pushing fluoridation of water in US Public Health Service is Oscar Now and New World Order Ewing, also a lawyer for Aluminum Com- pany of America! [Getting rid of waste and making a profit!] Fluoridation blunts intelli- Part 6 gence. Even West German scientists got it banned there in 1971, though still heavily occupied by Allied soldiers. The Rise of the Fourth Reich of riches allegedly of Solomon, including Russian and an American arguing: Our Ger- “The CIA has even admitted that its drug testing on college campuses resulted in the ecret Societies that Threaten to Take over ancient texts. Sumerian tablets and cylinders man scientists are better than your German are now available detailing scientific ad- scientists. drug revolution of the 1960s.“ Nazi scien- SAmerica by Jim Marrs (2008): Hitler like- tists’ work on mind control at concentration ly escaped, at least his ideas continued. vances before Noah’s Deluge. So now is not the apex of progress, but a period of relearn- Nazi-US mind control camps was continued in the US under US Operation Eagle Flight aided Nazis to flee authority. In 1977 hearings Senator Ted with their riches, patents and technical staffs. ing. Solomon is claimed to have gathered Winston Churchill insisted that the oc- info from these ancient sources to acquire cultism of the Nazi Party should not be Kennedy told of CIA mind control experi- Company ownership was concealed by ments carried out in 30 US universities and changing names to confuse. “They escaped wealth and knowledge. They were passed known publicly no matter what. Its occultism along by masters and secret societies as the was why NASA had space events coincide institutions of covert drug tests on unwitting with the loot of Europe as well as rocket sci- citizens of all social levels. Auschwitz ence and even more exotic technologies . . . Rosicrucians and Knights Templar. The latter with occult practices, and why the Russians gaining riches and texts preserved under did the same. ‘Doctor’ Josef Mengele was among the lead- remains classified in U.S. government files ers doing so in the US, as CIA’s Sid Gottlieb. even today.” Used secretly in the US. Jerusalem’s Temple Mount. Nazis seek contacting non-human Intelli- [In 1942 the NY Tribune called Senator gences by using rituals they claim to gain CIA agent George White said “Where else Fascism means merging of state and busi- could a red-blooded American boy lie, kill, ness. Mussolini coined fascism from a Ro- Prescott Bush Hitler’s Angel for bank rolling advanced technology. Hitler called Master the Nazis.] “Two prominent U.S. business Dietrich Eckart “the spiritual founder of cheat, steal, rape and pillage with the sanction man fasces, a bundle of rods with axe blade and blessing of the All-Highest?” He was fund- protruding, and two big images are displayed leaders who supported Hitler and served on National Socialism” and Hitler as a soldier in the board of directors of the Union Banking WWI said “I often go on bitter nights to ed by Gottlieb, who later in 1973 destroyed all in the US Senate. The individual is subordi- MKUltra files before leaving the CIA. nate to the state. He and Hitler gained control Corp. were George Herbert Walker and his Wotan’s oak in the quiet glade with dark pow- son-in-law Prescott Bush, father of George ers to weave a union.” At Edgewood Arsenal 7000 volunteer sol- over corporations, while US firms took con- diers got various mind control drugs and were trol over the state—same result. H.W. Bush.” On Oct. 20, 1942, the US Alien Six months in office, Hitler passed law Property Custodian under the Trading with against genetically diseased children (life only told they would suffer temporary pain, “In 21st century America many . . . [saw] a not knowing which drugs or that others had recycling of the events of pre-World War II the Enemy Act seized shares of UBC for unworthy of life), so euthanasia was enforced financing Hitler. “Also seized were Bush’s with sterilization by hereditary health courts. died from them. Paperclip Nazis did such Germany: the destruction of a prominent work there 1947-1966. national structure; rushed emergency legisla- holdings in the Hamburg-America ship line “In 1925 after more than a decade in which at that had been used to ferry Nazi propagan- least 60,000 defectives in the U.S. were legally Many of the same men who aided Hitler tion; the rise of a secretive national security became influential after the war. Such as apparatus; attempts to register both firearms dists and arms.” Crime families lead in the sterilized, Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, writ- US (and globally). ing for the majority in a Supreme Court case, “John McCloy, wartime assistant secretary of and people, coupled with preemptive wars of war, close friend to Deutsche Bank chairman aggression propelled by fervent nationalism.” Escape routes were called ratlines. The stated It is better for all the world, if instead of Vatican aided more Nazis than any other waiting to execute the degenerate offspring for Hermann Josef Abs and attorney for I.G. Anyone speaking out against national policy Farben, was appointed America’s high com- is branded unpatriotic. agency. Nazi Germany signed a concordat or crime or to let them starve for their imbecility, treaty in 1933 with the pope, still in effect. society can prevent those who are manifestly missioner in Germany. He pardoned more After a fake terrorist attack on the Reich- than 70,000 Nazis accused of war crimes.” stag (German parliament) by fire, scared law- John Cornwell’s book Hitler’s Pope told how not fit from continuing their kind.” he was originally in favor of Pope Pius XII, Later sterilization met with much resis- The Marshall Plan to fund restoration of makers quickly gave Hitler the Enabling Act Europe after the war was paid by US taxpay- for similar absolute powers as the fake 911 but after further study of Vatican archives he tance so vasectomy for men was preferred, had moral shock about the pope’s actions and and salpingectomy for women with same ers. Robert McCormick, editor of Chicago attacks and US Patriot Act. Hitler attacked Tribune, criticized it as just another Rocke- Poland after a faked Polish attack on a inactions. Vatican ratlines provided Red effect. Cross passports through Vatican documents, Germans as well and other doctors began feller scheme to bilk American taxpayers. German radio station. And Rockefeller greatly profited. In 1971 White House officials viewed Nazi led to Argentina where the Nazis did not have in late 1800s to quit using minimal doses of to hide. drugs to using them primarily, which began John F. Kennedy—Though he came to propaganda films to demonstrate how to office by hands of the elite, switched when manipulate a nation’s emotions by invoking At a secret meeting with Rockefeller, Jews the rise of giant drug companies. “During the were given the option of vengeance on Nazis late 1800s Opium Wars any type of drug was his father Joseph died. Claiming secret soci- fear. Patriot Act was passed by Congress after eties are a menace. He planned to ban the the 911 attacks without time to read it. Ron in South America or a new nation, not both. used for profit. For example in 1898 the They chose the nation so that in 1948 Israel German Bayer Company began mass produc- CIA—the home base of many Nazis, bring Paul, one of the few to not vote for it, said the back US troops in Viet Nam, and get rid of very name patriot at such a time seemed to became a state. tion of heroin and used that name to market Under the Freedom of Information Act, in the new remedy . . . Bayer also promoted tax breaks for the wealthy. He ordered print- indicate you had to vote for the bill if you ing of US Notes without paying interest to the were patriotic. He said the bill was not read 2000 the CIA admitted its relationship with cocaine, which until the 1920s was an ingre- Nazi Reinhart Gehlen kept secret for 50 dient in the soft drink Coca-Cola.” Federal Reserve. For these plans he was by Congressmen because they could not get a assassinated. copy before voting, and it was very compli- years. He provided intelligence after the war Aluminum in cans and pans has made for the US so his war crimes were exonerat- Alzheimer’s disease the 7th leading cause of Jack Ruby pointed out LBJ as having the cated. He claimed games were played to rush most to gain by JFK’s death. Nazi SS officer approval. Under the act the president receives ed. Hoover gained blackmail leverage over death in the US. Some people are more sus- many high US business and political leaders ceptible than others. The link between ciga- Helmet Streikher worked for the CIA and dictator status in emergencies. said: “One of the worst-kept secrets in the Corporate leaders did not mind making prof- using the Nazi-Interpol intelligence files. rettes and cancer also took decades, many studies exonerated the role since they were (CIA) is the truth about the president’s mur- it by helping Nazis after the war and funded Project Paperclip der . . . the men who killed Mr. Kennedy were them during the war. Hitler was free to attack funded by tobacco companies. US tobacco By 1955 1000 German scientists were companies have always profited from addic- CIA contract agents. John Kennedy’s murder banks in rhetoric, but not in reality. US compa- was a two-part conspiracy murder. One was nies aided German production and promoted granted US citizenship and given prominent tion to a deadly vice. The Nazis did some positions in the US scientific community. good. They were the first to ban smoking in the action end with the killers the other was pro-Nazi sentiment in the US in the 1930s. Car- the deeper part, the acceptance and protec- maker Henry Ford’s book The International Many of these Nazis had conducted experi- public places and use of asbestos. Hitler and ments on humans at concentration camps, Mussolini were nonsmokers while Churchill, tion of that murder by the intelligence appa- Jew in favor of anti-Semitism guided Hitler ratus that controls the way the world oper- who honored him in Mein Kampf. Ford used slave labor and committed other war Roosevelt and Stalin smoked! crimes. A by-product of aluminum and used as a rat ates. It had to happen. The man was too inde- received the highest German award to a non- pendent for his own good.” German for his funding of Nazis. Ford’s son CNN reporter Linda Hunt’s book Secret poison is sodium fluoride. It is commonly in Agenda: The US Government, Nazi Scientists drinking water, claimed to improve teeth. Chemicals in foods—Aspartame is a Edsel sat on the board of American I.G. Farben sugar substitute (in NutraSweet, Equal and providing supplies for Hitler. Ford company and Project Paperclip 1945-1990 tells of Nazi Sodium fluoride was put in drinking water of infiltration within the US federal government concentration camps by Nazis to pacify the Metamucil) in diet soft drinks and 5000 foods built military trucks for Germans. and drugs. Heated to 86¼F it releases metha- Fascists tried a coup in the US to get rid of and military. Nazis went into private business, inmates. “A Christian Science Monitor survey too. Hunt wrote: “The American taxpayer foot- in 1954 showed that 79% of the 81 Nobel Prize nol that breaks down to formic acid and for- FDR but chose the wrong man, Major General maldehyde used in embalming, a neurotoxin. Butler who exposed the secret plot. Or did ed the bill for a project to help former Nazis winners in chemistry, medicine and physiology obtain jobs with Lockheed, Martin, Marietta, declined to endorse water fluoridation. Yet Body heat is 98.6¼. Aspartame can cause dia- they? Researchers believe this was a ploy by betes and cancer. the rich elite who put FDR in power, and North American Aviation and other defense today, two thirds of all municipal water and contractors during a time when many Amer- most bottled water in the U.S. contain sodium Donald Rumsfeld was CEO of Searle, wanted to make it appear FDR was in opposi- manufacturer of Aspartame. The FDA kept it tion to gain public support for his Socialist ican engineers in the aircraft industry were fluoride . . . fluoride is a key ingredient in being laid off . . . It had taken the greatest war Prozac and many other psychotropic drugs. off the market for 16 years, claimed it not safe policies. Nazi means National Socialism. and the company should be indicted for fraud. US ambassador to Germany William Dodd in history to put a stop to an unspeakable evil, Prozac (scientific name fluoxetine) is 94% flu- and now the cutting edge of that nightmare was oride. More than 21 million prescriptions for Statute of limitations ran out and its advocates said in 1937: “A clique of U.S. industrialists is ended up in high places in the government. hell-bent to bring a fascist state to supplant being transplanted to America.” fluoxetine were filled in the U.S. in 2006.” Though a Space Race was hyped, Nazis in School nurses routinely tell parents their Rumsfeld, as member of Reagan’s transition our democratic government and is working team, appointed an FDA commissioner who closely with the fascist regime in Germany and the US and Russia were communicating with unruly child has Attention-Deficit Hyper- each other. High level globalists continued to activity Disorder and recommend Prozac or approved Aspartame. A public outcry led to Italy. I have had plenty of opportunity in my congressional hearings on people being poi- post in Berlin to witness how close some of our control world events through them. At war’s Ritalin taken by 6 million kids or other mood- end the US had what Russia needed to make altering drugs. Parents must allow this or may soned, but they were blocked by those in American ruling families are to the Nazi Monsanto’s employ. Monsanto bought Searle. regime.” [The Heil Hitler! straight arm salute Sputnik, and were required to leave it to them have the children taken away from them (not by the elite. In 1956, a 3-stage US rocket was law yet). One reason for more school shootings The mold prevention chemical of sodium came after the fascist-inspired US Pledge of benzoate in soft drinks creates the carcinogen Allegiance (later changed to hand over heart).] ready to place a satellite in orbit a year before is that they are by kids on them or coming off Sputnik, but direct orders had them delay. them, as at Columbine High School. Stopping benzene when mixed with vitamin C causing Churchill was connected to the empire DNA damage as Parkinson’s disease. Coke and builders in Europe and knew that Germany The Cold War was a ruse to make it look like these drugs can be as dangerous as starting US and Russia were in opposition, when in them because of painful withdrawal symptoms. Pepsi were asked about this. They said they was to be stopped, but not the Nazis saying trust government agencies for safety (but they “This war is not against Hitler or National fact they were part of one space program. Most teen suicides occur while they are on [Later they openly had joint space ventures.] these drugs allegedly for mental health. are under control of giant drug companies). Socialism, but against the strength of the Dr. Otto Warburg was one of only a few German people.” Soviet moles told US secrets, and vice versa. “Virtually all the gun-related massacres that Hunt noted that in the US “the Germans have made headlines over the past decade have Jews allowed to continue cancer research Guinness Book of World Records lists the under the Nazis. He claimed cancer is caused German treasury at war’s end as the greatest dominated the rocket program to such an had one thing in common: they were perpetrat- extent that they held the chief and deputy ed by people taking Prozac, Zoloft, Luvox, by replacement of normal cells using oxygen bank robbery. Gained wealth of Jews and to cancer cells using anaerobic means of fer- plundered nations. Swiss bank accounts hid slots of every major division and lab [as von Paxil or a related antidepressant drug.” Braun].” Both US and Russia used captured The media has not publicized this since mentation. “Oxygen gas, the donor of energy the money. Switzerland was not neutral dur- in plants and animals, is dethroned in the ing WWII. Nazi V-2 rockets to start their space pro- drug companies advertise a lot in the media. Nazis gained knowledge about the location grams. One joke in the 1950s was of a Drug companies lobby Congress and give CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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after he had deleted the cookies on his com- puter. It was forced to offer refunds for fleeced customers. National Cash Register Co. made a Metro Future Store in Germany using RFID. After the hidden tags were known, Germans Now and New World Order of all walks of life wanted the store shut down. Metro had to recall 10,000 loyalty cards. If you want to avoid an RFID tag after pur- chase, you can destroy it, but you could void CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE Corporate power protected (but a person’s used on warehouse pallets. Some RFIDs have the warranty or proof of purchase. cancer cells and replaced by an energy-yield- rights restricted). Power of labor suppressed wafer-thin batteries. Most only send a signal a A man takes photos of Hollywood stars’ ing reaction of the lowest living forms namely or gone (US labor unions squelched). Disdain few feet, but those attached to animals are trash and sells them to make a living. He got a fermentation of glucose.” and suppression of intellectuals and arts (aca- high powered, as tracking whales by beaming the idea after reading about a professor Nazi control over US—“Under the ban- demics were fired for just speaking out against location to low orbiting satellites. who had his students rummage through peo- ner of freedom and democracy, yet pursuing the official 911 story). Obsession with crime Not all tags are RFID, some are just anti- ple’s garbage as a class assignment. Halle the agenda of the globalists who supported the and punishment. Rampant cronyism and cor- theft. An RFID reader and tag must use the Berry was found to not use any Revlon prod- Nazis, the U.S. slowly turned from one of the ruption (Bush’s failures of 911 attacks and same frequency to be readable, and the same ucts though she is highly paid to advertise most admired nations in the world to one of Katrina relief; Cheney’s link with Haliburton protocol to gain access. Clothing tags may them. Some embarrassed celebrities whose the most despised. William Blum, a former contracts ripping off taxpayers; Rumsfeld not be noticeable, the antenna made of metal trash was ‘on display’ bought the photos— State Dept. employee stated: From 1945 to reported that $2.3 trillion was missing from fibers. Spray on ink can be used as an antenna extortion? 2003 the U.S. attempted to overthrow more the Pentagon just a day before 911!). Fraudu- and even the chip may soon be sprayed on ink Many garbage trucks and cans are equipped than 40 foreign governments and to crush lent elections. for a printed circuit with conductive organic with RFID readers and devices. Some tags are more than 30 populist-nationalist movements “Many Americans noticed the similarities polymers. so small they can survive shredding of docu- fighting against intolerable regimes. In the between George W. Bush’s unprovoked at- Each computer chip will contain a unique ments, even the cross-cut ones. The data col- process the US bombed some 25 countries, tacks on Afghanistan and Iraq and Hitler’s’ Electronic Product Code (not the Universal lected can be sold to companies for marketing caused the end of life for several million peo- unprovoked attacks on Poland, the Low Coun- Product Code now in use). With a 96-bit code purposes. An invention allows automatic sift- ple and condemned many millions more to a tries and France.” Both on reasons shown it will be able to label everything up to 2 to the ing of garbage for tags without dirty hands. life of agony and despair.” false later. 96th power or 80 thousand trillion trillion Fiber RFID tags in packaging and product Arnold Schwarzenegger (bodybuilder, ac- Other books of note: Ladislas Farago author objects. A can of soup will have its own web- labels can be 5 microns wide and 1 mm long. tor and governor of California) was asked who of Aftermath: Martin Bormann and the Fourth page to view to know when produced, trans- Used in newspapers to track them, and impor- he admired most: “I admire Hitler because he Reich. Martin Lee wrote The Beast port history, how long on shelf and so on. tant to advertisers who place ads there. came from being a little man with almost no Reawakens: “Fascism is on the march again Marketers, government agents and thieves About a million women and half a million formal education, up to power. I admire him ... unchecked corporate power.” will want to snag info from RFID. There are 3 men are stalked each year, and half of stalk- for being such a good public speaker and for Nazi ideas have spread through all facets of main differences between RFID and barcodes: ings result in violence. Stalkers use the latest what he did with it.” [His quote was down- US life. Spread by globalist elite who control Unique ID so every can of say Coke has its GPS devices, wireless cameras and invasive played in his election. No wonder the elite monopolies over basic resources of energy, own number. Remotely read so just passing computer programs. With RFID tags every- wanted him as governor, an ardent Nazi fan! Is drugs, transportation and communications. near a reader can transfer data. Plans call for where, stalkers won’t have to place them on the Terminator on Reagan’s path to be presi- Nicholas Rockefeller (CFR): “The end goal tags in every part of a house’s construction, their victims, they will have them already. dent? A bill in Congress tries to allow non-US is to get everybody chipped, to control the furniture, appliances and food containers, so Muggers can remotely read expensive pur- born citizens to become president. The bill‘s whole society, to have the bankers and the readers emitting electromagnetic energy could chases by customers leaving stores. Workers author had Arnold in mind.] elite people control the world.” That’s the cause health problems. doing legitimate work in your house could About 2010 Americans may need identifi- conspiracy, straight from the horse’s mouth! IBM claims companies can determine a easily scan items to case the joint to burglarize person’s gender, race, age and income bracket later. Though RFID advocates claim it will aid cation papers for all their activities, ordered by Spychips (2005) Nazi Gestapos. A national ID card was by computer programs studying the tags he law enforcement and be a deterrent to thieves! delayed by states against it. Real ID Act pro- By Katherine Albrecht and Liz McIntyre: carries. “IBM has even developed a device US passports are to have a non-encrypted vided for a national identity card required in “RFID will have a pervasive impact on every actually named the person tracking unit that $8 chip embedded in them, so anyone with a order to take airplane flights, get a job or for aspect of civilization, much the same way can zero in on your RFID tagged products and reader can access the info. Thus targeting financial services. Plans are to go further with as the printing press . . . It will be the biggest use them to watch you like a hawk . . . This is Americans will be easy overseas. A murderer chipped implants to record personal data deal since Edison gave us the light bulb.”— particularly shocking in light of the fact that could use a smart bomb placed by a street beneath the skin and read by scanners. These Rick Duris, Frontline Solutions Magazine IBM leased cutting-edge punch card technolo- tuned to detonate only when a certain car or would most likely be implemented if another Dec. 2003. gy to the Third Reich so that Hitler could track person passed by. major terrorist attack occurred or was faked. Radio frequency identification uses com- Jews and their property.” US troops in Iraq were fitted with wrist- Computer programs are designed to read a puter chips, some smaller than a grain of sand, One company planned on using RFID tags bands when injured for GPS location and person’s body language and speech to indicate to track items at a distance. Uniform compa- in all its clothing in 2005. “Abercrombie & other data. The US military may be chipped potential criminal activity to authorities, as nies like AmeriPride and Cintas embed RFID Fitch would be just the company to do it, too. or face court martial. Some have already said Nazi plans to preempt crime and dissent. The tags into their clothes that can tolerate wash- These are the same guys who have peddled they would rather be court-martialled. Pets UK plans to define mental disorders in people ing. Some companies demand employees use soft porn to kids, glorified teen nudity and por- are being RFID implanted. Some of the poor- to detain or arrest, and to broaden what is con- RFID badges. They may track personal time trayed group sex parties in their advertising est New York school kids were tagged, even sidered defective. such as going to the bathroom. campaigns.” Costumer boycotts ensued, though their basic necessities are wanting. Much unfavorable publicity ensued from People may be arrested if RFID devices claiming they would rather go naked than Supposedly for child safety, yet no one had torture of Iraq prisoners by the US. So show erratic behavior. Is being arrested for wear spy-chipped clothing. A&F cancelled the been lost or abducted. “Kids report that rather President Bush signed Senator McCain’s bill precrime, as the movie Minority Report, 15 million garments to be tagged. than making them feel safer, the program to restrict torture of detainees, but Bush then around the corner? Like the movie, marketers In July 2003 Gillette was found to use tags makes them feel demeaned and insulted. One signed a presidential signing statement which hope to bombard people by name with ads for for its Mach3 razor blades in UK’s largest 15-year old [said it] makes me feel kind of like rescinded the order! Such orders are common their products all day. retail store Texco. A customer who lifted a an animal.” by recent presidents, signing into law various Over 60,000 companies are under RFID package was shot by a camera and the store’s The VeriChip is touted for safety, but acts not under scrutiny of Congress. mandates to implement spychip programs. security personnel were notified of the mug someone with the RFID implanted under- “As documented in Rule by Secrecy, the Many people believe the biblical prophecy shot. Another camera took the shopper’s neath his skin will need a Medic-Alert same financial powers that built the U.S. into of the Mark of the Beast will involve such a photo at checkout. If he did not pay for razors, bracelet to notify medical help of the embed- the world’s foremost superpower also created spychip implanted in the head or arm. he was considered a potential shoplifter. At ded chip. The company boasted of its FDA Communism.” Illuminati symbols and slogans The EU document on RFID Jan. 2005: other stores, tagged lipstick automatically approval, but the FDA warned: “The poten- resemble those of Nazis. “According to U.S. “The ability to surreptitiously collect a variety relayed women’s faces as they picked it up, tial risks to health associated with the device News & World Report, Skull and Crossbones of data all related to the same person; track sent directly to Procter & Gamble. Other are: adverse tissue reaction; migration of members [as the Bushes and John Kerry] sing individuals as they walk in public places (air- items as Huggies baby wipes, Right Guard implanted transponder; compromised infor- their traditional song to the tune of Deutschland ports, train stations, stores); enhance profiles deodorant and Wisk laundry detergent have mation security; failure of implanted Über Alles [Germany’s national anthem].” through the monitoring of consumer behavior been spychipped. transponder; failure of inserter; failure of Demonstrators are herded into free speech in stores; read the details of clothes and acces- Checkpoint’s website refers to invisible electronic scanner; electromagnetic interfer- zones or arrested for speaking out as Andrew sories worn and medicines carried by cus- tags hidden from shoplifters and employees ence; electrical hazards; magnetic resonance Meyer can be seen screaming on the Internet tomers are all examples of uses of RFID tech- alike, glued inside sealed packages or embed- imaging incompatibility; and needle stick.” for merely asking John Kerry why he did not nology that give rise to privacy concerns.” ded in soles of a shoe. If they are good, why Magnetism of an MRI can forcibly move protest the 2006 election vote. It seemed odd Some RFID seem good for home use: hide them? the implant to rupture tissue or heat up burn- how Kerry just gave up, but both he and Bush Monitor expired milk, keep track of food used “Vice President of technology at AIM ing the patient. The VeriChip is lauded for aid- are members of the Skull and Bones Club, so to provide a shopping list to re-supply, or Global Steve Halliday said If I talk to compa- ing finding people, but the reading range is they win either way. clothes that instruct washers how to wash nies and ask them if they want to replace the only a few feet. “America today is a National Socialist’s them. bar code with these tags, the answer can’t be Persephone Inc. wants its RFID implanted dream come true.” Computerized data on peo- Unlike barcodes, RFID does not need to be anything but yes. It’s like giving them an so close to the detector in line of sight. It is dif- opportunity to rule the world.” so deep in bodily tissues it cannot be removed, ple and surveillance devices abound. Corpora- such as the head or organs. For prison inmates tions rule our lives. Private corporate armies ficult for a person not to know that a barcode College students in retail class are assigned as Blackwater are accused of being a US ver- he has is being read, but not so for RFID. “An to follow customers in stores to record their it could not only track them, but vibrate, pro- sion of Nazi Brownshirts. RFID antenna is typically a flat, metallic coil behavior as marketing research, even their duce electric shock or act as a microphone so Laurence Britt notes 14 traits of fascist that looks like a miniature maze or a tiny race- conversations. This is the low tech version. their words could be overheard. Or used as regimes: Powerful and continued expression of track . . . may form a long strip, a circle or an “The computerized versions can hide in your cattle prods or tasers by guards. nationalism (waving flag, pride in military). X-shape. The chip and antenna combination is shoes, ride in your car and even go to bed with Asmart gun with RFID can only fire if the Disdain for human rights. Identification of sup- called a tag or transponder.” you undetected.” owner uses it. Police cite reasons against it: posed enemies (Communists, Jews; freedom An RFID reader sends energy to the tag so Spychipped loyalty cards aid the process— The chip could be disabled in a fight and not fighters become terrorists). Supremacy of mili- the info on the chip is revealed. A passive lower prices for invasion of your privacy to usable by the cop. Criminals could set off a tary to further plans of the elite (50% of US RFID has no energy source of its own. Library target marketing. Electronic means can be jamming device to stop the entire police force budget goes to military spending). Rampant books may have these tags as a logo of the used to manipulate prices for individual cus- while using old firearms themselves. sexism (not so prevalent in US but is male library. An active RFID tag with its own tomers: To help the poor? No, customers who The authors urge buying in cash and not dominated). Controlled mass media (only 5 power source as on FasTrack or EZ-Pass spend less at a store can be given higher prices shopping at stores requiring loyalty cards. firms in US). Obsessed with national security sends a signal for toll collection on toll ways. to discourage them, while profitable cus- “That’s akin to opening your door to marketers (a pretext to strip individual rights). Religion So cars can be monitored even far from the tomers can get discounts and perks to encour- and government agents to let them know and ruling elite combined (regimes attach to the toll booths without the drivers knowing. age their visits. Amazon.com was sued after a exactly what you’ve purchased over time.” dominant religion and became its defenders). Active ones are heavier and more costly, and man noticed different prices for the same item Mr. Jan Young

[email protected] Past articles: http://23jan.spaces.live.com

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God moved His Lamp from Philadelphia to Laodicea and next He will move it to His Two Witnesses! If, for example, Mr Gerald Flurry of the Philadelphia Church of God is correct in claiming Laodicea already exists, then the reader had better go to Laodicea because then Philadelphia is over and God has moved His Lamp from Philadelphia to Laodicea! There can be no simultaneity of two or more active church eras else God would be an Author of Confusion. Surely at anyone time at most one Lamp of God’s Truth will beckon His Elect from Satan’s Darkness!

The majority that came out the former RCG God’s 7th and final era of Laodicea because as head of the Church of England, forbade her Garden of Eden No-D & No-R plain truth and and WCG appear to believe that Laodicea is he was lukewarm on that pivotal marriage sister Princess Margaret marrying the in 1977 married another man’s wife contrary Satan’s rather than God’s church. It is true law that all consummated marriages are divorced Group Captain Peter Townsend. to God’s law for priests (Lev 21:7, 14) and that Revelation 3:14-22 shows that Laodicea unbreakable covenants for life (1 Cor 7:39)? contrary to Jesus’ and Paul’s teaching (Luke is a troubled era but nevertheless it is God’s Mrs Loma Armstrong had been her hus- For some incredible reason in 1974 Mr 16:18, 1 Cor 7:39), we thought we had been and not Satan’s 7th and final church era. band’s spiritual backbone. She saw from the Armstrong replaced God’s Garden of Eden richly endowed. In truth we were wretched, No-D & No-R law with man’s D & R rule. A God’s Lamp shone during the era of Laodicea start the Sabbath truth, whereas he fought naked (!) and blinded and needed the eye- careful reading of Matthew 19:1-12, Mark but only as bright as that era’s human leader against this, threatened her with divorce over salve Jesus offered Laodicea (Rev 3:17-18). allowed it to shine! it and only reluctantly came to agree with the 10:1-12 and 1 Corinthians 7:39 reveals that To avoid the unwelcome truth that the Sabbath truth. once a man and a woman have become one I show in my paper P1 that Mr Armstrong advent of the era of Laodicea would mean the When Mrs Armstrong died in 1967 things flesh—the marriage being consummated— also mistakenly believed that Jesus had end of Philadelphia, some now deny the soon started to go wrong. In 1974 Mr then no man may put that union asunder. married the nation of Israel at Mt Sinai, teaching of Mr Herbert W Armstrong that Armstrong rejected God’s institution of mar- In 1973-74 Mr Armstrong’s “scholars” when in truth God the Father had married twisted especially Paul’s teaching of chapter there are seven church of God eras. However, riage as an unbreakable covenant for life— Israel—see papers A2, A3 and the in-depth 7 of 1 Corinthians around to their own de- my paper Q9, The Church Eras of Revela- “let no man put asunder” (Mark 10:9)—by study P2. Surely a Father cannot be an struction by falsely arguing that they should tion, shows there are seven consecutive replacing God’s Garden of Eden No-Divorce unmarried Father as Mr Armstrong in effect replace God’s Garden of Eden No-D & No-R church eras and that, as one era fails, God & No-Remarriage law with Moses’ man- taught by claiming that Jesus was the law with their contrary D & R law. moves His Lamp from the failed era to the made and contrary Divorce & Remarriage Husband of Israel! They ignored how Paul summed up the following one. rule (Mark 10:4-9). See article A1 and the in- matter by concluding 1 Corinthians chapter 7 Mr Armstrong also taught a third major error. depth study paper P3, The Garden of Eden Zechariah chapters 3 and 4 show that, beyond with, “39 The wife is bound by the law as long He had not been granted to know the date of No-Divorce & No-Remarriage Law. the 7 church eras, God’s Lamp will be passed as her husband liveth; but if her husband be God the Father’s marriage to Israel. Mr to two olive branches and which Revelation My paper P1, Laodicea’s Lamp!, essays that dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom Armstrong had three goes at the date of 11:4 identifies are the Two Witnesses. The by 1974 Mr Armstrong had three major doc- she will; only in the Lord. 40 But she is hap- Pentecost and never got this right. This is reader may like to examine my paper Q12, trines wrong and that all three are related to pier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I fully explained in the in depth study paper The Two Witnesses Identified from the Bible, marriage on which pivotal doctrine Mr think also that I have the spirit of God.” P4, On Sivan 7 Pentecost was Fully Come! because this essays who will be the two wit- Armstrong had always been lukewarm. How Contrary to Mr Armstrong’s 1974 rethink, The Bible shows that Mr Armstrong had by nesses. That paper argues that the Two God continues to see all consummated mar- lukewarm was revealed only after the death 1974 the following three doctrines wrong and Witnesses will not come from our era but that riages as unbreakable covenants for life— of Mrs Loma Armstrong. that these three are related through marriage they can be identified from the Bible. “Let not man put asunder!” (Mark 10:4-9). When in the late 1920s and early 1930s Mr and so jointly point to Mr Armstrong having Another important point to recognize is that Armstrong began the work, no church in Marriage is pivotal to God’s Plan. The Bible rejected God’s No-D & No-R marriage law: the Bible does not identify Mr Armstrong as Christendom would allow either divorce or is the book of three unbreakable marriage 1. His 1974 contrary man-made D & R rule, God’s messenger to the era of Philadelphia. remarriage after divorce. God’s Garden of covenants: man’s Garden of Eden marriage Yes, many may want to believe he was but Eden No-D & No-R law had come down to 2. That Jesus was Israel’s Husband, covenant, God the Father’s marriage cove- 3. The date of God’s marriage—Pentecost. they cannot prove he was. In the light of the Mr Armstrong from the Apostolic church nant with Israel (sic!) and the coming shambles that followed Mr Herbert W through the preceding church eras. Even the marriage covenant of our Lord Jesus with The papers mentioned are available from Armstrong’s 1974 rejection of God’s Garden Church of Rome and the Church of England the Church. my Internet home page www.rightly-divid- of Eden No-Divorce & No-Remarriage law, abided by God’s Garden of Eden No-D & No- ing.net or by writing to: Henk Jens, P.O. Box couldn’t it be that he was the messenger to R law. For example, in 1955 Queen Elizabeth, When Mr Armstrong rejected in 1974 the 121, Belmore, NSW, 2192, Australia.

The Church of God as it is Today and its Future

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL Issue No. 127 (June 17, 2010) ★ ★ ★ THIS PAGE CONTAINS PAID ADVERTISING ★ ★ ★ 21 Just How Righteous WERE the Jews?

e are told that if our righteousness and gave intimation to the soldiers to draw their You KNOW you are bleeding badly and know you does not exceed that of the scribes naked swords. Hereupon the Jews, as it were at might die. and Pharisees we shall not enter the one signal, fell down in vast numbers together, THESE MEN AND THEIR FAMILIES WERE WILLING Kingdom of God. We are told this by and exposed their necks bare, and cried out that TO ACCEPT THAT FATE JUST TO PROTECT WHAT GOD no less than Christ Himself. I would they were sooner ready to be slain, than that SAID.Yet here we sit in judgment of their righteous- hopeW that everyone reading this is fully aware of that their law should be transgressed. Hereupon Pilate ness. I DON’T question Christ’s judgment of their verse and the warning given by it. was greatly surprised at their prodigious supersti- attitudes. I DO question the self-righteous attitude I plan for this to be the first of a series examining tion, and gave order that the ensigns should be we sometimes display of, “WE today, in GOD’S what the Jews did right, what they did wrong, and presently carried out of Jerusalem. Church are SO much better than those people! WE how we may be doing the same thing. This issue I’d like Chapter 10 understand the Law, and WE have been to focus on how we may misread how the Jews who taught by the Apostle, and WE have lived in the 1st century really felt about religion and 3. But now the Jews got all understanding necessary to claim sal- God and offer one view on why Christ told us we together in great numbers vation!” would have to do better than they did. with their wives and chil- These people were willing to die to We’ve heard from worldly churches and from our dren into that plain that was protect God’s laws. They were willing to history in the Church of God that the Scribes, by Ptolemais, and made sup- be a sacrifice. So what did these people Pharisees and Sadducees were hypocritical. We typ- plication to Petronius, first lack that Christ had to warn us about? ically heard at least once a month about what terri- for their laws, and, in the What did they NOT do that we NEED to ble hypocrites they were. How they would twist the next place, for themselves. do? The ministry did help us with that language of the law to justify their own desires. If So he was prevailed upon by answer. We were taught the critical issue you take the time to read out of the Talmud, you can the multitude of the suppli- that the Jews of that time missed was see how they reasoned this way. How they used lan- cants, and by their supplica- the issue of faith. They didn’t listen to guage the same way an irreputable lawyer will today. tions, and left his army and God. They tried to figure it out on their When we see this we typically recoil in feigned hor- the statues at Ptolemais, and own. They had their traditions and oral ror at the lack of understanding of the clear princi- then went forward into laws. I’ve mentioned this several times ples that Christ taught, which the Jews were contra- Galilee, and called together before, but the one thing I see Christ vening by their traditions. I said ‘feigned’ because I the multitude and all the focusing on was God’s written word. hope and pray that most of us realize that we may be men of note to Tiberias, and Numerous occasions He used the phrase just as guilty as they were. showed them the power of ‘It is written.’ He also used the phrase So exactly how bad were these Jews of Christ’s the Romans, and the threat- ‘You have heard it said.’ Typically when time? After all, the implication from Matthew 5:20 is enings of Caesar; and, be- He used the latter phrase it was because that these guys weren’t going to make it to the sides this, proved that their Flavius Josephus he was showing them what they heard Kingdom. Why? The ministry taught us that the petition was unreasonable, was not correct. Pharisees were exceedingly stringent in obeying even because while all the nations If the reports we have are accurate, the least bit of the law. For instance, Christ told us in subjection to them had placed the images of and I believe they are, then we can see that the Jews that they even tithed on the mint from the garden. Caesar in their several cities, among the rest of their of the 1st century were definitely not lacking in zeal. This created some confusion in my mind for a long gods, for them alone to oppose it, was almost like I used to catch myself thinking that they were seek- time. We were told that God expects us to keep His the behavior of revolters, and was injurious to ing to destroy Christ for their own political self- law, AND we were also told that the Jews who were so Caesar. interest. Clearly, that was a factor. However, we can fastidious that they tithed even on the mint in the 4. And when they insisted on their law, and the now also see that they were intent on doing their garden didn’t do enough. How could we in this soci- custom of their country, and how it was not only not best to follow what they understood God required ety possibly keep God’s law correctly? permitted them to make either an image of God, or of them. Lately when I was doing some research, I found indeed of a man, and to put it in any despicable part We can see that these people Josephus and Philo some interesting information about how zealous the of their country, much less in the temple itself, wrote about were ZEALOUS in their religion. Again, Jews were about keeping God’s law. This information Petronius replied, “And am not I also,” said he, let me reiterate that they were willing to die a tor- proved to me that they were more committed than “bound to keep the law of my own lord? For if I tured death to defend what they believed God want- I ever would have believed. I copied the following transgress it, and spare you, it is but just that I per- ed. Not only were they willing to die personally, they I’d like you to look at. These excerpts are from ish; while he that sent me, and not I, will commence were willing to sacrifice their families. Do you think ‘The Wars of the Jews’ by Josephus. I have italicized a war against you; for I am under command as well your minister would “expose themselves, together and boldfaced the relevant parts of these passages. as you.” Hereupon the whole multitude cried out with their children and wives, to be slain?” You can find these on the Internet at: http://www. that they were ready to suffer for their law. Petronius Would you? Some of our brethren in hostile envi- sacred-texts.com/jud/josephus/war-2.htm. then quieted them, and said to them, “Will you then ronments such as China, Africa, and other locations Chapter 8 make war against Caesar?” The Jews said, “We offer do. Some of our brethren in Europe face govern- mental actions for following their 2. Now Pilate, who was sent as pro- faith. Are you willing to go to jail for curator into Judea by Tiberius, sent by I was struck that these people willingly keeping the Sabbath? Those Jews of night those images of Caesar that are that time were willing to give up their called ensigns into Jerusalem. This placed themselves at risk of being hacked lives for God. But it still wasn’t excited a very great tumult among the to death to protest the violation that enough. Jews when it was day; for those that they saw of God’s directions. Christ condemns them for leaving were near them were astonished at the out the weightier matters of the law; sight of them, as indications that their judgment, mercy and faith. They could laws were trodden under foot; for not implement the law in a Godly those laws do not permit any sort of image to be sacrifices twice every day for Caesar, and for the manner. They lacked mercy. They lacked faith. Faith brought into the city. Nay, besides the indignation Roman people”; but that if he would place the that would have allowed them to understand God’s which the citizens had themselves at this procedure, images among them, he must first sacrifice the will. They looked to traditions, and human reason to a vast number of people came running out of the whole Jewish nation; and that they were ready determine what they thought God’s will and law was. country. These came zealously to Pilate to Cesarea, to expose themselves, together with their chil- They let human nature lead them. They didn’t let and besought him to carry those ensigns out of dren and wives, to be slain. At this Petronius was God’s spirit lead them. Jerusalem, and to preserve them their ancient laws astonished, and pitied them, on account of the inex- I used to assume that these people must have inviolable; but upon Pilate’s denial of their request, pressible sense of religion the men were under, and been hopelessly political creatures, intent on their they fell down prostrate upon the ground, and con- that courage of theirs which made them ready to die self-interest at all costs. But by studying more I tinued immovable in that posture for five days and as for it; so they were dismissed without success. have come to the conclusion that, while it might be many nights. See also http://www.earlyjewishwritings.com/ easy to dismiss the leaders of Christ’s time as hyp- 3. On the next day Pilate sat upon his tribunal, in text/philo/book40.html, ‘On the Embassy to Gaius’ by ocrites, there is much more involved that I didn’t the open market-place, and called to him the multi- Philo, Chapter XXXI (207) thru XXXII (242) for see. The stories from Josephus and Philo proved tude, as desirous to give them an answer; and then more evidence that the Jews of the time were willing that to me. gave a signal to the soldiers, that they should all by to die in defense of God’s word. God’s word tells us that we must exceed the righ- agreement at once encompass the Jews with their When I read these, I was struck that these people teousness of the leaders of the Jews. We have been weapons; so the band of soldiers stood round about willingly placed themselves at risk of being hacked to taught by scripture how they failed. Yet it is still the Jews in three ranks. The Jews were under the death with a sword, in order to protest the violation incredibly easy for us to still follow that faulty path. utmost consternation at that unexpected sight. that they saw of God’s directions. Have any of you In the next issue I want to try to use a modern exam- Pilate also said to them that they should be cut in ever been cut badly with a shard of glass or a knife? ple to demonstrate how it is so easy for us to make pieces, unless they would admit of Caesar’s images, I have. It’s frightening. You KNOW what’s happening. the same mistakes they did.

zwbrt89 • P.O. Box 80338 #6833 • Chicago, Illinois 60680-3338 • [email protected]

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Is Polygamy a Sin—in Africa?

olygamy is legal and accepted uncover her nakedness while the other is The goal was to produce a congrega- ue to suffer as a result of the church- in many parts of Africa. His- alive”? (Lev 18:18). This is obviously tion “. . . not having spot or wrinkle or es of God interfering with their mar- P torically, the Church of God talking of an ongoing relationship, a any such thing, but that she should be holy riage structure and misrepresenting has taught that it is a sin. Here’s the marriage relationship. Why would and without blemish” (Eph 5:27b). the mind and word of God. Although Plain Truth About Old Testament Polyg- God make a law like this if any sec- Paul’s instructions to Timothy and he expounded some very important amy by H.W. Armstrong (1963) plain- ond wife was a sin or even a problem? Titus assume the average member of truths, in this case Herbert Arm- ly says “Polygamy is a SIN” (Pg. 3 col. In fact, if a man died married but the congregation could have multiple strong twisted the word of God. He 3, Para. 9). As a result of this belief, without children, the law required wives. Why let the ‘sin’ of polygamy read his own meanings into scripture families in Africa have been forced his brother who lived close by to slide? and ignored God’s clear instruction. into stressful and unconventional cir- father a child with the dead man’s As it turns out according to Craig Those he taught continue to do this cumstances, undermining their sta- wife. There is no exemption if he Keener in And Marries Another (Pg. to this day. The distortion is not lim- bility and peace within the family. were already married (Deu 25:5). In 87) (Hendrickson Publishers, Pea- ited to this issue. Why then did God command at the same way if a man compromised body, Mass. 1991), multiple wives Don’t wait for someone ordained the same time He spoke in thunder a virgin she was to become his wife were illegal under Roman law. In of men to look into this for you. from Mt. Sinai that “If he takes anoth- (Ex 22:16). There is no exemption if Palestine multiple wives were still Don’t assume this is the only thing er wife, he shall not diminish her [the first the man is already married. Only the allowed, but other areas fell in line that the churches of God misunder- wife] food, her clothing, and her marriage girl’s father could prevent the mar- with Rome (Pg. 88). Paul’s recom- stand about the marriage relation- rights”? (Ex 21:10). The Creator does riage. Even then the man would be mendation against polygamous el- ship or the law of God. Develop your not label polygamy a sin, but dictates required to pay the full customary ders was more likely due to the fact own relationship with the real head that one must continue to fully price for the woman. that they would not present a good of the congregation of God by an in- respect and support the first wife. Paul forbids Timothy and Titus (I face to the community at large in depth study of His word. This is sim- Marriage to a second woman was not Tim 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6) to ordain an Asia Minor where Timothy and ply one more cloud in the fog of mis- an adulterous union, but simply “an- elder who has more than one wife. Titus taught. understanding that blinds (Rev 3:17) other wife.” Does this mean polygamy is a sin? If So it is certainly not “the Plain the churches of God. Why does the law say “Nor shall you polygamy were a sin, why was it even Tr uth” that “Polygamy is a SIN.” Our (Click Other studies / Divorce & Re- take a woman as a rival to her sister, to tolerated among the membership? brothers and sisters in Africa contin- marriage at the Web address below.) ★ www.creatorscovenant.org ★ PO Box 1002 ¥ South Pasadena, CA 91031

What did Jesus mean in John 5:37, “Ye have never heard his voice at any time...”?

This is often cited in an attempt to refute my to all that thou desiredst of the LORD thy God Father’s voice. For example, not even Moses tifies God the Father as the God of Abraham, claim that God the Father was the God of in Horeb in the day of the assembly, saying, because as Jesus reminded the Pharisees and of Isaac and of Jacob. Therefore the God of Exodus who spoke to Moses from the Let me not hear again the voice of the LORD His disciples in Mark 10:1-12 that Moses Exodus who spoke to Moses from the Burning Bush. This article explains what my God....”It is clear this refers to Exodus had replaced His Father’s Garden of Eden Burning Bush again was God the Father. Jesus meant by “heard” and gives Jesus’ tes- 20:19, where Israel indicated to no longer No-Divorce & No-Remarriage law with Let no one deny the testimony that God timony that His Father spoke to Moses from wishing to “hear” the voice of the God of Moses’ contrary Divorce & Remarriage rule the Father was the God of Exodus who spoke the Burning Bush! Exodus! for the hardness of their heart. Note in Mark to Moses from the Burning Bush given first I remind my critics that when Jesus said, Let us continue with what the God of 10:1-12 how Jesus stressed that this had not by Jesus and also jointly by Moses and Peter. “Ye have never heard his voice . . .” this was Exodus told Moses in Deuteronomy chapter been God’s (His Father’s) intention from the after His baptism and therefore after God the 18, “17 And the LORD God said unto me, beginning (Eden). In John 5:37 Jesus also added that no one has Father’s voice had been heard saying, “This is They have well spoken that which they have Indeed starting with Adam and Eve in seen God the Father. Exodus 33:11 states my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased” spoken. 18 I will raise them up a Prophet the Garden of Eden, no man has ever truly that the God of Exodus spoke to Moses face (Matt 3:17). Then my critics either remain from among their brethren, like unto thee, heard (attended to, obeyed) God the Father’s to face as to a friend but other scriptures silent or claim that an angel had spoken at and will put my words in his mouth; and he voice! For a fuller explanation see paper qualify what this means. Exodus 33:18-23 Jesus’ baptism. However, no angel could have shall speak unto them all that I shall com- P10, How God the Father Was Seen and reveals that Moses was not granted to see the impersonated God the Father and it is clear mand him.” Heard! full glory of the God of Exodus and that my critics, like the Pharisees, love the tra- Numbers 12:1-8 tell us that Moses beheld dition of man more than God’s truth! We must now establish whether the God of Many will object to my claim that God the only a similitude of the God of Exodus. So What then did Jesus mean, “Ye have never Exodus and who spoke to Moses from the Father was the God of Exodus because not even Moses truly saw God the Father. heard his voice at any time”? The Greek Burning Bush, was God the Father or His Church of God tradition is that Jesus was Although God the Father spoke to Moses, word for “heard” in John 5:37 is “akouô” Son Jesus. that God. However, let us consider just two Moses did not always hear (attend to, obey) (Strong G191). Thayer’s Greek-English For this I will again quote Deut 18:17-18 proofs that God the Father and not Jesus was God’s voice: for example Joshua 5:2-9 but this time adding within brackets the iden- the LORD God of Exodus who spoke to Lexicon of the New Testament offers for 17 reveals how Moses failed to have Israel cir- “akouô” to hear, to attend to, to understand. tity of the two God Persons, “ And the Moses from the Burning Bush. This is thor- cumcised (Lev 12:1-4). LORD God (Father) said unto me, They have oughly shown in the short papers Q6, Q7, A2 Therefore since God the Father’s voice had 18 been “heard” at His baptism, Jesus can only well spoken that which they have spoken. and A3 and in detail in the study paper P2 but Papers Q6, Q7, A2 with A3 and the study P2 have meant with “Ye have never heard his I (Father) will raise them up a Prophet for now the following two additional proofs show that God the Father was the Creator, voice” that, starting with Adam and Eve, (Jesus) from among their brethren, like unto should suffice. the God of Abraham, of Isaac and of Jacob, thee, and will put my (Father’s) words in his First: Jesus’ testimony from Mark chapter the God of Exodus and the Husband of mankind has never attended to or obeyed His 26 Father’s voice. (Jesus’) mouth; and he (Jesus) shall speak 12, “ And touching the dead, that they rise: Israel—indeed a Father should be married! unto them all that I (Father) shall command have ye not read in the book of Moses, how Hebrews 1:1-2 declares that God the Father Man has always disobeyed the OT LORD him (Jesus).” in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am was His own Word to the OT fathers and God. For example, immediately after the From this it is clear that it was God the the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, prophets and that Jesus became the Word God of Exodus gave Israel the Ten Com- Father who foretold to Moses that He would and the God of Jacob? 27 He is not the God of God only in NT times! Paper Q7 also mandments (Exod 20:1-17), the people send Jesus as that special Prophet with God of the dead, but the God of the living: ye shows that mainstream Christendom’s so- rejected Him by saying to Moses, “. . . Speak the Father’s message. Peter too attests to this therefore do greatly err.” Through using the called “I AM” link from John 8:58 to thou with us, and we will hear: but let not in Acts 3:20-23 by quoting from Deuter- pronoun “he” and the noun “God” in verse Exodus 3:14 does not identify Jesus as the God speak with us, lest we die (Exod 20:19). onomy chapter 18 and identifying Jesus hav- 27, Jesus shows His Father was the God of God of Exodus as was mistakenly taught by How the God of Exodus reacted to being ing been that Prophet. Exodus who spoke to Moses from the the former WCG. rejected by Israel is related by Moses in Instead of hearing (attending to) the mes- (Burning) Bush. Deuteronomy chapter 18, “15 The LORD thy sage that Jesus brought from His Father, the Second: in Exodus 3:6 the God of Exodus The papers referred to above may be God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from people demanded He be crucified. identifies Himself to Moses from the obtained from my home page www.rightly- the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto Starting with Adam and Eve mankind has Burning Bush as the God of Abraham, of dividing.net or by writing to: Henk Jens, P.O. me; unto him ye shall hearken; 16 According never heard (attended to, obeyed) God the Isaac and of Jacob. In Acts 3:13 Peter iden- Box 121, Belmore, NSW, 2192, Australia.

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Simplify your DETROIT SEMINAR Bible study By Art Mokarow Bible Study God’s Way

DATE: Sunday, June 27, 2010 PLACE: Townsend Inn Morning Agenda: 100 Townsend, Birmingham, Mich. (Detroit suburb) Mystery of God Who is God? TIME: 12:00 NoonÐ5:00 P.M. (with free lunch) What is life and what is death? http://www.townsendhotel.com/parking-directions.html#maps What is God’s purpose and will? A guaranteed Eternal Paradise God’s system of teaching ★★★FREE LUNCH TO ALL! ★★★

Afternoon Agenda: Meeting Room: Salon IV, Townsend Inn Registration Contacts George Koory, 43510 Colonial Dr., Clinton Mystery of Babylon Free parking on Sunday: Garage, Lots and Meters Twp, MI 48212; 586-995-5240 home, [email protected] The Bible Mystery Why were humans PRE-REGISTER TO Don Kylman, PO Box 37, Onondaga, MI created? How to study God’s Word, the ORDER YOUR LUNCH! 49264, 517-569-2922 home, 517-877-0294 cell, Bible, God’s way God’s property and land [email protected] Who can dwell with God? The Bride in Please register early so we can get Bob Williams, 1310 S. Lakeshore Rd., an approximate count for lunch Carsonville, MI 48419, 810-622-8434 home, God’s Kingdom Overview of The Bible Story [email protected] and Doctrines, Creeds and The Truth

A Feast Site for 2010 that is Family-Friendly September 23–30, 2010 Sponsored by Church of God, International and Miss Nancy and the Puppets United Christian Ministries in Harrison, Arkansas

CGI and UCM invite all Cookout, and Fun Show. Phill Dunagan Church of God people to Enjoy beautiful mountain Ron Elkins attend the 2010 Feast of scenery, horseback riding, Bronson James Tabernacles with us in the river rafting, hiking trails, Dean Roberts beautiful Ozark Mountains at campgrounds, motels, Wynn Skelton Harrison, Arkansas. restaurants. It will be a great family The site is only 40 miles Ferrell Vincent Feast site with traditional from Branson, Missouri. Wes White church services and many Here is a list of speakers Ray Wooten church activities. planning to attend at Services will be held at Activities will include Harrison: Durand Center Auditorium in Peace of Millennium a Family Dance, Church George Crow downtown Harrison.

For more information about the Harrison, Arkansas, Feast site, call Ron Elkins • Fouke, Arkansas • 870/653-6043

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL 24 ★ ★ ★ THIS PAGE CONTAINS PAID ADVERTISING ★ ★ ★ Issue No. 127 (June 17, 2010) HOW and WHEN did Jesus become the Son of God?

By Robert Schmid theology, God is a trinity, and Jesus begotten and born of the other. God God made Adam and Eve in His onsidering that Lucifer and the always existed as the Son of God and created one man Adam who begat image and therefore created with(in) angels can never become true came to earth via an incarnation as a Cain—a new person (a new human them the potential to reproduce C begotten/born Sons of God makes human being and by being born of being), and God begat Jesus—a new through procreation, i.e., to have the question HOW and WHEN did Jesus Mary 2000 years ago. person (a new God being). (physical) children. God then showed become the begotten/born Son of God? Here we can see how the trinity Since neither existence before birth the way through and by His first born one of the most important question we doctrine works hand in hand with the nor the incarnation are Biblical con- Son how to reproduce through procre- can ask. incarnation doctrine where an existing cepts, and since by these doctrines ation, i.e., to have (spiritual) children. Jesus came to show us the way by divine being, Jesus the Son of God, the God’s deity CANNOT be clearly perceived In the beginning God (Gen 1:1). His example, through His birth, life, second person of the trinity, is assum- by the things that have been made, In the beginning the Word (of God), suffering, death and resurrection (born ing human form via an incarnation these doctrines can only be believed which was always with(in) God and again). and by being born of Mary, which is (because HWA said so), but cannot be was God (John 1:1). Satan does not want human beings syncretism that God hates. understood! They are Roman Catholic In the fullness of time the Word to know and understand how and Since neither the trinity nor the mystery doctrines. (of God) BECAME flesh, BECAME the Son when Jesus became the true begot- incarnation, nor pre-existence are According to Unitarians: Unitarians (of God), BECAME Jesus the Christ ten/born Son of God, nor how humans Biblical concepts, and since by these deny the trinity, twinity and incarna- (John 1:14). can become true begotten/born chil- doctrines God’s deity CANNOT be clearly tion doctrines. They believe that Jesus Jesus was the (only so) begotten dren of God, and has confused the perceived by the things that have been is the only begotten Son of God, the Son of God (at conception) and was plain truth with philosophy and made, these doctrines can only be Messiah, the Lord and Savior, but not born as a human being through Mary mythological teachings. believed (because a doctrinal com- God. They believe that God created the (the legal wife of God). He lived, suf- Let us consider and contrast four mittee said so), but cannot be under- seed of which Jesus was born, making fered and died and was resurrected as different teachings of HOW and WHEN stood! They are Roman Catholic mys- Jesus a created being. They believe the (first) born Son of God (Rom 1:4). Jesus became the Son of God. tery doctrines. and teach that: “The crowning piece of Jesus did not pre-exist His birth as a According to Roman Catholicism: According to Herbert W. Armstrong: the plan of God was the creation of second God being. “But when the ful- The first anathema of the Second In his book Mystery of the Ages, HWA Jesus Christ. . . .” ness of the time was come” (Gal 4:4), Council of Constantinople states: “If wrote: “Long before anything else Do not be deceived! Just because God BECAME God the Father and the anyone does not confess that the existed, there did exist two Supreme someone claims that Jesus is the “Son Word of God BECAME the Son of God Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit Beings, immortal, who ALWAYS had of God” does not make Him the “Son (John 1:14). are one nature or essence, one power existed. “So here we find revealed orig- of God.” If God created the seed from God was not and is not a trinity! or authority, worshipped as a trinity inally two Personages. One is God. And which Jesus was born, then Jesus is a God was not a twinity! God did not cre- of the same essence, one deity in three with God in that prehistoric time was created being and not a true son, ate His Son! God is the ONE God Family hypostases or persons, let him be another Personage who also was God— because nature, i.e., the things God that began with the ONE God who first anathema.” one who later was begotten and born created, teaches us that a father DOES married, then in the fullness of time The second anathema states: “If as Jesus Christ.” That is plain and sim- NOT create his seed; the seed has had His firstborn Son—Jesus,and who anyone does not confess that God the ply POLYTHEISM. always been with(in) the father. The is now in the process of adding as Word was twice begotten, the first Although HWA denied the trinity, he Word of God, which is the seed, was many as are led by the Spirit of God, before all time from the Father, non- retained from Catholicism the pre- not created, but has always been to be(come) additional Children of God. temporal and bodiless, the other in the existence of Jesus, i.e., that Jesus with(in) God, so that who is born of Jesus became the SON of GOD when last days when he came down from existed before He was born, and the God is God.What else? He was begotten and born of God, the heavens and was incarnate by the incarnation doctrine, i.e., that an According to the Word of God, the through procreation (not incarnation), holy, glorious, God bearer, ever virgin existing God being became a human Holy Bible: Rom 1:19-20 tells us that 2000 years ago. God did not become a Mary, and born of her, let him be being. we would know the deity of God in the man! God fathered a son who was born anathema.” But God was not a twinity of two things that have been made, so that we as a man. That is the plain and simple In other words, according to Catholic co-equal beings where one became are without excuse. truth according to the WORD of GOD.

Robert Schmid, Westminster, CA • www.logoslogic.info • E-mail [email protected]

Simplified Calendar Mechanics Each Spring I get questions about how to stice occurs. Printed calendars usually tell the season ending with the beginning of the bibli- noxes and new moon occurrences (although determine times for God’s annual feasts. Some time, but a person stranded on a desert island cal new year. Obviously, Winter season offi- some erroneously call the dark portion of the people are surprised to learn they do not need is not likely to have a printed calendar avail- cially ended at the time of the equinox around moon cycle ‘new’). a printed calendar to know correct dates. An able. March 20th. Even the sophisticated computer Internet is individual could be stranded on a desert island A second way is to have a sundial in the First light of the fourth new moon was seen available for use. Any number of sites can be and still know the dates. All they would need to yard. Most people do not. here in Arizona the evening of April 15, 2010. consulted for knowledge about the moon do is be aware of solar occurrences and able The third method is to use a stick poked As far as I am concerned (and I’m not alone in cycle. One source is: http://www.moonconnec- to count new moons. upright in the ground near to December 20th this), it marked the first day of the first month of tion.com. Enter into their search facility your God established the annual feast days so (a freestanding, clear-trunk tree also will the new year. That new month, as determined (or any) location in the world, and everything people could have opportunity to meet with work). The stick (or tree) will cast a shadow by the moon, “shall be the first month of the about monthly moon phases will be shown. Him. These yearly ‘appointments’ are listed in substituting as a crude sundial. Observing the biblical year to you” what The Lord told Moses (Note: I am not connected in any way with Leviticus Chapter 23. Most readers of The sun shadow is all that is necessary to know (Exodus 12:1-2). Note that this new moon these folks, nor agree with every conclusion in Journal are aware of the Leviticus location. when the sun changes direction in the sky dur- occurred after Spring season was underway.To some of their articles. I just found the moon However, some individuals and church groups ing a solstice. establish the date for Passover, I counted 14 part of their website convenient.) have altered (or are ignoring) the method God In some years, the time of a solstice comes days from the first day of the first month of the If you find it easier to count new moons from set up for determining the dates of His festi- in the dark of night. That does not matter. The new year, April 15th (Exodus 12:6). the December solstice, the first light of the fourth vals. God placed the sun, moon and stars in changed shadow direction will be apparent the The Feast of Passover should be kept the new moon will be Day One of biblical Spring and the heavens for signs, for seasons, and for next morning. An exact hour is not needed. No evening of Day 14 (Exodus 12:18) in the same Day One of the first month of a new year. The days and years (Genesis 1:14). These solar solstice or equinox event has any influence on season the Children of Israel came out of Egypt other option would be to use a modern calendar objects are what should be used. the cycle of the moon. They are events associ- (Exodus 13:10). The Israelites did not depart and find the first new moon after March equinox. Some people think that, while God did pro- ated with the sun. Egypt during the Winter season. You can know Either method works, every time every year. vide celestial signs, insufficient information for The December solstice begins Winter sea- this by considering a few other scriptures. If you happen to be the curious type and their use was provided. Since they think accu- son in portions of the earth north of the equa- Deuteronomy 16:1, 6 tells that Passover count all new moons which occur in some rate dates can not be known, they make up tor. This event can be used to determine the occurs in the beginning of each year. That years, there could be thirteen. No problem. times to suit their own requirements. first month of a new biblical year, something beginning time is described as ‘abib’ (Exodus When using the first new moon after March Many folks default to what Judaism says are that needs to be known in order to establish 13:4/Exodus 34:18). ‘Abib’ historically has been equinox as the beginning for a biblical year, the dates. I suggest for true Christians, that the times for all God’s annual feast dates. used as a name for the first month of a biblical any extra days get cancelled out. idea bears closer scrutiny. God never is impre- To determine the date of a new biblical year, year. Abib also means ‘tender’ (implying ‘green’), As far as I am concerned, the above method cise with the things He does. He didn’t keep watch for the changed direction of the sun a direct reference to the condition of plant life. It is how to begin God’s annual calendar. I am secret the method by which people can shadow in December near the time of Winter is not descriptive of wintertime vegetation. not Jewish. I do not any longer use advanced, accomplish His will. solstice. When it occurs, wait until the next new The Children of Israel left Egypt during a postponed or manipulated Jewish dates to In the northern hemisphere of the planet, moon. Counting the first new moon after season when there were tender plants show- determine God’s correct annual feast times. Winter solstice occurs in December around Winter solstice, count three more new moons ing, that is, the vegetation of the land was Some time ago a lady sent me a letter the 21st day. Another solstice comes six for a total of four new moons. newly growing. New vegetation comes during objecting to using moon cycles for determining months later in June called Summer solstice. The average moon cycle is 291⁄2 days long Spring, not the cold of Winter season. Passover and dates for annual Sabbaths. She These two solstices mark when the sun varying slightly month to month. The original Knowing all this, one really does not need to said that the middle of March was Springtime reverses direction in the sky and one season Hebrew word for ‘moon’ also means ‘month.’ count four moons after occurrence of a for her because her daffodils were blooming. ends and another begins. The December sol- The two words are synonymous. The moon is December solstice. One only needs use the Well, honey, here in my yard in Arizona the stice is the most useful for establishing God’s the ‘sign’ indicating months (Psalm 89:37). first new moon after Spring equinox to estab- daffodils bloom in January! feast times. Light of the first new moon after the De- lish the beginning of a biblical new year. When one uses the sun and moon ‘signs’ as Actually four seasonal changes or ‘turns’ cember 2009 solstice showed here in Arizona The only difficulty here is how to know when the method for determining the beginning of a occur each year. Two are solstices, two others on January 15th. Counting the January 15th Spring equinox occurs. There is no visual new year, any discussion about if flowers are are called equinoxes. Unlike solstices, equinox new moon, I counted three more new moons. change in the direction of the sun’s shadow at blooming or if barley grain is ripe (for firstfruits occurrences do not involve a change in direc- January 15 to February 14 was the first biblical equinox time. The mathematics required for observance) is moot. God does not leave things tion by the sun. Equinoxes mark the time when month in what some people refer to as ‘biblical exact solar measurement are significant, to chance. God does not leave establishment of the sun crosses the Equator in its travels back Winter season.’ February 15 to March 16 was something of which most people have no correct dates for His annual festivals to the and forth across the sky. It is important to rec- the second month. March 17 to April 14 was knowledge, me included. opinions and whims of confusing advance- ognize that none of the four seasonal changes the third and last month in a total of four new We live in a modern world. There is nothing ments and postponements. God set the sun can be messed with. They will and do occur moons for the 2009-2010 biblical Winter sea- wrong with taking advantage of what it offers. and moon in the sky as signs for us to use. whether people want them to or not. son. Remember, I use the word ‘biblical’ We can purchase any number of pre-printed Thanks for your time. Any questions or com- There are several ways to know when a sol- because some people like to think of Winter calendars. Most show times for solstices, equi- ments, write me. Martha Schimmel ¥ Ministry Publications ¥ P.O. Box 715 ¥ Cottonwood, AZ 86326 USA ¥ [email protected]

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400 observe feast days in Jamaica with CGI Your Choice of Four Sites! Continued from page 1 based on the book of Joshua. and forgiveness of Christ, our Redeemer by 129 members amid a typically ebullient In it he highlighted and explicated three and Unleavened Bread. Big Sandy Feast Jamaican worship atmosphere. These bap- important principles for spiritual success He showed how it was fear of losing his tisms were a source of joy and a reason for including obedience to the whole law, political influence that caused Pilate to September 23–30, 2010 great celebration as they demonstrated that courage and inner strength, and keeping an deliver Jesus up to be crucified and not any the unwavering emphasis on evangelism unwavering focus on the mission. proof that Pilate found against Him. was continuing to pay rich dividends. He also expounded on lessons on leader- We should be careful, Mr. Boyne ship as well as being good followers. He warned, to live true to our spiritual convic- Alaska Cruise Jamaican model also addressed the influence of sin to affect tions rather than succumbing to expediency This year only! Spend two days at Edgewater Hotel in The Jamaican CGI model maintains a individual lives and the life of the church as and fear of losing things we value. Seattle. Board ship September 24. Arrive back in strong focus on preaching the distinctive well as the importance of faith in claiming The concept of living unleavened bread doctrines of the Church of God as well as God’s promises to those whom He has led beyond the ritual came alive as a result of Seattle October 1. Make reservations through cruise honoring the traditional liturgical forms. out of spiritual Egypt. the sermon for many members, with Mr. expert Kathy Summers at (800) 860-7155. Dennis Boyne never straying far from the practical, and Vickie Mouland, coordinators, (928) 460-0230. These are balanced by rigorous interac- 400 observe last day of UB tions with the best doctrinal challenges to everyday issues facing his listeners. The high spirits of the Kingston Jamaica the faith as well as the inclusion of exciting Man in the mirror contemporary praise-and-worship music. congregation continued to be matched by a Pastor Boyne’s No. 1 priority, however, high attendance of 341 for the last day of The traditional second service on the holy Destin, Florida has always been the fulfillment of the great Unleavened Bread. day was a memorable experience for mem- Our 13th year in Destin! Pelican Beach Resort. Make commission given by Christ in Matthew 28 The capacity of the Sagicor Auditorium bers as Pastor Pedro Hall of the Spanish reservations through the church by calling Shelly at Town congrega- to preach the gospel, (800) 946-5545. Melodee Overton, coordinator, (903) baptize and make tion delivered a new disciples. Pastor Hall said that, for better marriages, families and powerful sermon, 571-2322. “The Man in the 312 observe best relationships, we should develop the discipline Mirror Is the Passover of looking first at the man in the mirror. Problem.” Later that day In it he pointed Big Sandy, Texas 252 persons met at out that for a bet- The site is the property including the building owned the Sagicor Auditorium for what many was challenged as members and visitors ter church, for better marriages and fami- by the Church of God Big Sandy. J. L. and Jeannie filled the hall for a day of high energy wor- lies, for better working relationships, we members said afterwards was for them the Roden, coordinators, (903) 769-3191. best Passover ever. ship, praise and preaching. Meanwhile, should develop the discipline of looking The atmosphere was as poignant as ever about 55 brethren met at the Maroon Town first at the man in the mirror. as the liturgical form was enriched by brief congregation in Western Jamaica, bringing Rather than blaming others, finding fault biblical insights interspersed throughout by total attendance on the last day of the with others, we should follow Jesus’ com- Pastor Boyne. Spring Feast to about 400 in Jamaica. mand to take the mote out of our own eyes Myrtle Beach, Meanwhile 50 persons met for the In his last-day sermon, Mr. Boyne deliv- so we can see to take the speck out of South Carolina Passover in Maroon Town in Western ered a life-impacting presentation titled others’ eyes. Jamaica and 10 at the Ocho Rios CGI wor- “The Passion Story: Lessons from the Mr. Hall’s dramatic, humorous and skill- This will be our eighth year at Myrtle Beach! At ship hall. Characters.” ful use of the mirror metaphor throughout Avista Resort, same as last year. Call Avista directly, In it he explored the lessons from the life rendered his presentation riveting and 1-800-968-8986, refer to group code 1355588. Lyle 312 observe first day of UB of Peter, Judas, Pilate, Herod and Joseph of searching and actuated many brethren to and Kathy Kerby, coordinators, (304) 354-7147. On the first day of Unleavened Bread Arimathea. commit to taking his advice. He showed how emotions of fear, uncer- 312 people met at the Fellowship Contact information Tabernacle Center. Mr. Boyne’s dynamic tainty and experiences of disillusionment sermon was expansive in its scope and rel- and suffering could cause believers to com- Write the CGI at [email protected] or P.O. Church of God Big Sandy evant to the issues faced by members. It had promise their faith. Box 2525, Tyler, Texas 75710, U.S.A. Or something for everyone to reflect on and He demonstrated the importance of call (903) 939-2929. Write CGI Jamaica at P.O. Box 690 • Big Sandy, Texas 75755 implement. knowing how to rebound from failure by [email protected] or P.O. Box 776, Kings- www.bigsandychurch.org He delivered an in-depth study on the contrasting the examples of Judas and Peter ton 9, Jamaica, W.I. key lessons from Israel’s deliverance story while emphasizing the compassion, mercy See also cgi.org and cgijamaica.org.

Melchizedek and Abraham are a One-God Stumbling Block!

This article exposes today’s One-God error. Many appear unaware that Mr Herbert W Armstrong correctly taught that Jesus was the Melchizedek who met Abraham (Correspondence Course lesson 7): especially One-God supporters who deny that Jesus existed before His Bethlehem birth. All this is not helped by Mr Armstrong’s teaching that Jesus was the Creator, the God of Abraham, the God of Exodus and Israel’s Husband (Correspondence Course Lesson 19).

Who is the mysterious Melchizedek? Gene- Genesis 14:18 declaration that Melchizedek Mr Armstrong taught in effect that God the Father remains as a Self-existing God. This sis 14:18 tells us that His name means “King was priest to the most high God. Father is an unmarried (single) Father who misunderstanding is caused by mainstream’s of Righteousness” (Strong H4442) and was Who was the most high God? After begot His Son through His Son’s Wife, 2nd-century departure from Apostolic King of Salem (i.e. Peace H8004). He was Abraham obeyed God’s request to offer his Israel, by Mary but which surely can not be Godhead teaching and their consequent fal- priest to the most high God and partook with son Isaac, the LORD told Abraham that He correct! sifying and mistranslating of John 1:3 and Abraham of bread and wine, which may had sworn by himself (Gen 22:16). In other NT verses to make it appear Jesus was have been the NT Passover symbols. Hebrews 6:13 Paul explains that God had When Jesus said to the Jews in John 8:56, the Creator. sworn by himself because He could swear “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my Unfortunately Mr Armstrong embraced Paul reveals quite a lot about Melchizedek by no greater. Since Jesus explained that His day: and he saw it, and was glad,” He was that 2nd-century error, but note the hidden in the passage Hebrews 6:20–7:4. In verse Father was greater than He (John 14:28), it clearly referring to Abraham meeting Mel- testimony of Acts 4:24b with 27a that the 20 of chapter 6 Paul associates Jesus with follows that the most high God of Genesis chizedek. God, who has a holy child Jesus, is the the everlasting priestly order of Melchi- 14:18 was the NT God the Father and there- When in John 8:57 the Jews questioned Creator! zedek. In verse 3 of chapter 7 he declares the fore His priest, Melchizedek, can only be Jesus’ claim of having met Abraham, “... following attributes to Melchizedek:— the NT Jesus. Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast Because God the Father remains the only thou seen Abraham?”, Jesus declared in Self-existent God certain verses, such as 1. He is without father and mother, That the OT LORD God is the NT God the verse 58 that He had existed before Abra- Deut 6:4 and Isa 45:5, appear to have a Uni- 2. He is without descent (genealogy), Father can be shown from Psalm 110 by ham, “Verily, verily I say unto you, Before tarian message but when read in fuller con- 3. He has no beginning of days, identifying between brackets God the Fa- Abraham was, I am.” text they have no such thing. Also these 4. He has no end of life, ther, Jesus and David in Psalm 110:1 and 4. Paper Q7 shows that in John 8:58 Jesus verses remind Israel that she may relate only 5. He was made like unto the Son of God. 1 The LORD (Father) said unto my (David’s) did not name Himself “I AM” but asserted to her Husband, who is God the Father. Yes, From these 5 attributes we must conclude Lord (Jesus), Sit thou (Jesus) at my that He had existed before Abraham. There God the Father is a properly married Hus- the following about Melchizedek. Because (Father’s) right hand, until I (Father) make is no link from John 8:58 to Exodus 3:14 for band and not a single Father as Mr Arm- Melchizedek has no father and mother and thine (Jesus’) enemies thy (Jesus’) footstool. identifying the God in the Burning Bush strong implicitly but mistakenly taught. 4 has no genealogy, he can not be a man. Also The LORD (Father) hath sworn, and will not with Jesus. repent, Thou (Jesus) art a priest for ever Unitarians also have a problem with the because Melchizedek had no beginning of Indeed Jesus reveals in Mark 12:26-27 notion of a spirit God becoming incarnate as days (start of life) He could not have been a after the order of Melchizedek. that God the Father was the God who had My papers Q6, Q7, A2-A3 and the in- the man Jesus. This problem is similar to that created being, such as an angel because spoken to Moses from the (Burning) Bush. experienced by Nicodemus how a man can angels do have a beginning of days. There depth study P2 show that God the Father It was therefore God the Father who named was the Creator, the God of Abraham, of be born again as a spirit being (John 3:4). An remains only one explanation, namely that himself in Exodus 3:14, the Self-existent explanation of these problems is given in the the Melchizedek who met Abraham was a Isaac and of Jacob (read Acts 3:13), the One, the Eternal or more simply, I AM. LORD God who spoke to Moses from the short paper A4 which was published on page similitude of a Self-existent God Person. This is obvious when it is realized by 8 of Issue 127 of The Journal (April 2008). Burning Bush (study Mark 12:26-27), is the agreeing to be made incarnate and die as A question that remains is, Which God Per- Husband of Israel and was His own Word to man’s atoning Passover Lamb, that Jesus had That Jesus existed from all past eternity as son was this Melchizedek? the OT fathers and the OT prophets (Rom surrendered through this His former Self- an independent Self-existent God is shown Hebrews 6:20 reveals that Melchizedek 1:1-3; Heb 1:1). These papers also show that existent Deity to become an obedient Son to in the in-depth study paper P5. was made like unto the Son of God, which is Jesus became the Word of God only in NT His former fellow God and now His Father a clear reference to His being made incar- times (Heb 1:2). and also depend on His former fellow God to The papers mentioned are available at my nate as Mary’s child begotten by God the Until we understand who was the most resurrect Him from the grave to spirit Life. Internet homepage www.rightly-dividing. Father. This also fits Paul’s association of high God who swore by Himself, we can not net or may be requested by writing to: Henk Jesus with the everlasting priesthood of the correctly understand the Bible. Few understand that from the original two Jens, PO Box 121, Belmore, NSW, 2192, order of Melchizedek (Heb 6:20) and the For example, why aren’t more aware that Self-existing God Persons, only God the Australia.

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL 26 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) God teaches many people different things at different times Continued from page 7 many groups. Obviously, we will all Scripture as well as tradition—many How do we know if someone is on dedicated, enduring the obstacles that or the gods of other religions is not have to work together in peace to of which are attributed to Ezra or even the right track? We do not always will arise. acceptable. reign with Christ. Moses—many brethren desire to in- know. Our Messiah said His followers It could start with a few people They must believe salvation is corporate these scriptures and “good” would do “greater works” than He working on just one project. It would available to all mankind because the Acceptable differences traditions into their lives. (John 14:12). The same spirit that in- be better if it could begin with a larger Father sent His Son to die as a sacri- Here are some areas where differ- These practices include wearing spired our Savior can inspire us. group from diverse church back- fice for all (John 3:16; 1 John 2:2). ences can be expected but which we fringes (Numbers 15:38-40; Luke Obviously, we should reject healing grounds agreeing to work together. Groups that claim certain of the can anticipate and not let derail the 8:44), prayer shawls and kippot (caps) in the name or by the power of This writer hopes many of the human kinds are “beasts of the field,” efforts of our macroministry: in services, starting the Sabbath by demons or other deities. But simply more-successful and capable min- “the serpent’s seed” or are in some Calendars. Almost everyone lighting candles, reading portions of because a person does something dif- istries will encourage one or more other way unable or less likely to who has studied biblical calendars in the Torah every Sabbath, and conduct- ferent from what we have done does people from their groups to partici- achieve salvation should not be includ- depth, and who has tried to convince ing a Seder at Passover. not make it a sin. pate. ed in this ministry (1 Timothy 2:3-4). other similar students of his calendar’s While many believers find these Deliverance from demons. Doz- This must be done to serve our To clearly understand this point, merits, realizes unity is not likely to be practices unnecessary, virtually none ens of scriptures report that our Savior Father and our brethren, not to make a think about how you would feel if you achieved on this point. of them is in any way sinful. And, to and His apostles cast out demons. This bigger name for our congregation or visited a congregation and the people But, then, almost everyone agrees the extent that they steer people’s is a vast subject, but here it is enough ministry. there either politely or aggressively he will follow whatever calendar Mes- minds to the Eternal instead of the to say there is not one example of a told you that you don’t need to come siah authorizes in His Kingdom. So it things of the world, they are good. servant of the Eternal refusing to try to Fear not what might happen back because they do not think you is not something we must solve now. Hebrew names for the Father help a demon-afflicted person because Someone might ask: Even if a ever will qualify for salvation. Every group can proclaim its times and Son. Some scriptures lead breth- doing so was too dangerous or too macroministry starts with the best of They must not teach that their of keeping the holy days, and its feast ren to believe they must use the He- awful or because the servant of the intentions, what is to stop it from turn- group is the only or main group with celebrations can be proclaimed side brew names for the Father and Son Eternal did not believe in demons. ing into a church organization? which the Eternal works. Some by side with others’. and that They are offended if we at- Participation in civil govern- The answer is nothing. Throughout groups preach this openly, while oth- To keep or not to keep. One of tempt to address Them by names that ment. In short, some Bible verses are history thousands of efforts of individ- ers believe it but are quiet about it. the biggest resentments of Sabbath- may have been used for other deities. understood to be commands to partic- uals and ministries have started out This is an especially dangerous keepers who do not keep the Feast is There are other verses in the Scrip- ipate in civil government, and other simply to do the Eternal’s work but teaching if the group claims a person that Feast-keepers have told them they ture that lead other brethren to believe verses are understood to be commands have turned into self-centered church cast out of its membership will lose must keep the Feasts to be saved. the Father accepts the names used for not to participate. organizations or denominations. his salvation. People have wasted But neither Sabbath observance nor Him in any language. This issue can- There are examples of righteous Sometimes the original leaders did years of their life and committed sui- the keeping of the Feast gives us sal- not be solved in this paragraph—and people in the scriptures who did not this. At other times, as in the cases of cide over such things. vation. They are the result of the Spirit maybe not in a whole book. participate in civil government, and Martin Luther and Dwight Moody, Even if such a group may otherwise in us living by “every word of God” However, brethren from both un- there are those who did. We can expect their followers did it. teach much biblical truth, it is a mis- (Matthew 4:4). derstandings often are united on many the same thing today. Some believers There is no way people can control take to encourage someone to attend Those who do not keep the Feasts other important principles of Scripture vote, write letters, sign petitions and the events of the future. An excellent with a group that will essentially en- example of this is the founding of Har- trap him there: to encourage him only vard, Yale and other old universities. to understand what that group teaches This writer hopes many of the more-successful and They were founded by dedicated and do what that group does. Christians to train ministers and solid The group must not allow its capable ministries will encourage one or more believers. But, gradually, secular peo- members to continue in open, flagrant ple gained control of their governing sin. The apostle Paul discusses a man people from their groups to participate. boards. Today they teach evolution whose sins were so flagrant and widely and secular humanism like state-run known that he was an embarrassment often see them as an Old Testament and can work together to serve their even run for office. Others do not. universities. to the church (1 Corinthians 5). “burden.” Rather than arguing doc- Father and others. Views on the “nature of God.” Solomon understood what happens. The macroministry should not pro- trine, it is better for a Feast-keeper and Energetic worship. The Bible Is the Creator composed of one, two, “Then I hated all my labor in which mote groups noted for their apparent a nonÐFeast-keeper to work side by gives us many examples of energetic three or more equal or unequal beings? I had toiled under the sun, because I sins. Sometimes honest investigation side, seeing that their faith, practice, worship of the Eternal: with singing, None of us can change the nature of must leave it to the man who will must take place to determine the true prayers and beliefs are indeed other- many instruments, loud music at the Creator by preaching about Him, come after me. And who knows nature of the group. wise similar. times, shouts of praise, hands lifted in and we have to take everyone’s word whether he will be wise or a fool? Yet Holidays. Some brethren will not the air, and people bowing to the for what he believes anyway. All the he will rule over all my labor in which People and practices to accept observe Thanksgiving because they ground and leaping and dancing. scriptures about judgment say we will I toiled and in which I have shown People from diverse backgrounds believe it is a harvest festival, a coun- When David’s wife Michal de- be judged on what we say and do, not myself wise under the sun. This also is will need to get used to beliefs and terfeit of the Feast of Tabernacles spised his worship (singing, shouting, on our ability to explain the interrela- vanity” (Ecclesiastes 2:18-19). teachings that are scriptural but not a (Exodus 23:16; 34:22). leaping and dancing), he no longer tionship between the Father, Son and Solomon also understood that it part of their tradition. For other brethren, Thanksgiving is lived with her as his wife, and she bore Holy Spirit. was wrong not to start something for We also need to get used to working the only annual festival they observe. him no children (2 Samuel 6:14-23). While many church groups make fear of what might happen. with mistakes others have not seen Some observe Hanukkah and Pu- Thousands of old churches, with this doctrine a litmus test of faith, it “The lazy man says, ‘There is a lion and overcome yet. rim, which are mentioned in the Bible little energy left in their worship, are has little practical effect on repen- outside! I shall be slain in the The spiritual person is one who can but are not commanded. dying out because they do not retain tance, overcoming and service to our streets!’ ” (Proverbs 22:13). help others who are sinning without There are even some groups that their young people. Father in heaven. “He who observes the wind will not being caught up in the sin himself attempt to depaganize Christmas and All worship does not have to be sow, and he who regards the clouds (Galatians 6:1). Easter, observing only the scriptural energetic, but a Sabbatarian macro- Implementing a macroministry will not reap. As you do not know If we consider ourselves members stories about Christ’s birth and resur- ministry needs to accept it and encour- The most common way to do any- what is the way of the wind, or how of the one true church, then of course rection, rejecting Santa Claus, bunnies age it. thing in our modern society is to the bones grow in the womb of her we would expect everyone to accept and other nonbiblical tradition. Speaking in tongues and inter- search for people who are willing to who is with child, so you do not know our teaching and come to us. They will point to the shepherds preting. These practices are certainly commit the money to do a certain the works of God who makes every- But, when we realize our Father is witnessing the choir of angels that found in 1 Corinthians 12 and 14 and project, then offer to pay qualified thing. In the morning sow your seed, working with many people, teaching came to earth to sing on the day of elsewhere in Scripture. Just as we people to do the work. and in the evening do not withhold them different things at different Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:8-14). have heard messages in services that But our Savior did not work that your hand; for you do not know which times, we can expect to be among peo- Are there other scriptures to be turned out to be false, some people way. He prayed for a long time about will prosper, either this or that, or ple who know less than we do in some studied to understand the day of our who speak in tongues or interpret do the ones He would choose, and then whether both alike will be good” areas and need to learn from us—but Savior’s birth? Yes. But we need to so falsely, making idle sounds or He chose them, and they came. (Ecclesiastes 11:4-6). we will also be among those from understand what people know and inventing an interpretation rather than Our Messiah’s ministry did not start whom we can learn. why they do what they do before we being inspired by the Spirit. with a budget. The New Testament Do what you can We are indeed vain if we think pass judgment. As Paul said: “If anyone speaks in a never mentions our Father’s work More important than Solomon, our everyone in the first resurrection will Messianic Jewish practices. tongue, let there be two or at the most being done or not being done based Messiah tells us we need to be doing be someone who came from our par- With the understanding that our Mes- three, each in turn, and let one inter- upon the availability of money. The His work. When He returns He ex- ticular church background. There will siah came to a culture that was largely pret . . . Therefore, brethren, desire people did their ministry, and the pects to find us working, not making be people from many generations and Jewish, with many practices from the earnestly to prophesy, and do not for- Father took care of them. excuses (Matthew 24:45-57). bid to speak with tongues” (1 Co- Today it can work quite similarly. He does not expect us individually rinthians 14:27, 39). Believers with the Holy Spirit can to do what we can’t do, but He expects The gift of prophecy. The New pray about doing His work and ask the us to do what we can do. Testament still had prophets (Acts Father to show them what to do. See 1 He expects to see us working as UCG elders approve $23 million 11:28; 21:9-11). 1 Corinthians 12 and Timothy 3:1-7, especially in the NIV. effectively for Him as we do to feed, 14 give information about prophesying Notice that the person who “sets his clothe and house ourselves (John 2:21; budget for fiscal 2010-11 in meetings. Congregations should be heart on being an overseer” desires a 1 Corinthians 3:17). encouraged to accept prophesying. “noble task.” “Consider your ways! You have Continued from page 1 dent; and Larry Salyer, media and Rather than stirring up doubt that But such an overseer must be “tem- sown much, and bring in little; you chairman for the next two years. communications. someone you have known for years perate, self-controlled, respectable, eat, but do not have enough; you Mr. Rhodes replaces Roy Holla- When Mr. Kilough resigned as could actually be inspired to speak hospitable, able to teach” and be able drink, but you are not filled with day of Portland, Ore., who was not president, his position was assumed under the power of the Holy Spirit, the to “manage his own family well.” He drink; you clothe yourselves, but no reelected to the council this year and by Mr. Holladay, who will soon end best thing to do is to record or take must also enjoy a “good reputation one is warm; and he who earns wages, thus cannot serve as its chairman. his term as interim president and his notes on the prophecy and see if it with outsiders.” earns wages to put into a bag with Also not reelected was Vic Kubik latest term as a council member. comes to pass. The problem with people running holes” (Haggai 1:4-6). of Indianapolis, Ind. The three men Budget and contact information Accurate records of prophecies, many of today’s ministries is they lack “Thus says the LORD of hosts: who resigned since last year and whether they are proven true or false, some of the qualifications listed in 1 ‘Consider your ways! Go up to the whose places were taken by Mr. Ba- The total budget amount for the are beneficial to all. Timothy 3. mountains and bring wood and build ker, Mr. Franks and Doug Horchak year approved by the general confer- The gift of healing. Most con- Rather, they want to look important the temple, that I may take pleasure in (of Plano, Texas) were Richard Thomp- ence $23,250,000, a decrease of $1 gregations accept the practice of pray- or feel close to God, but they do not it and be glorified,’ says the LORD. son, Paul Kieffer and Mr. Kilough. million from last year’s figure. ing over a person and anointing him really want to minister, to serve. ‘You looked for much, but indeed it In other recent news in the UCG, For more information about the with oil. We should also accept other A successful and effective Sabba- came to little; and when you brought it three men resigned as administra- UCGIA see www.ucg.org, or write biblical practices, such as those of tarian macroministry will be done home, I blew it away. Why? . . . tors: Jim Franks, ministerial ser- P.O. Box 541027, Cincinnati, Ohio Christ touching the part in question or through much prayer by volunteers or Because of My house that is in ruins, vices; Clyde Kilough, church presi- 45254, U.S.A. even making mud to apply to the by people working for a subsistence- while every one of you runs to his own afflicted person. level existence. They will need to be house’ ” (verses 7-9). Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) THE JOURNAL 27 The Journal lists Feast sites for 2010

U.S. SITES www.feast2010.org, E-mail: feast@ Antonio, Julian Cruz, 219 Whitefield, Ave., San Brunswick: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Jordan—Amman, the Dead Sea, and Aquaba Alaska—Anchorage: UCG, (513) 576-9796, feast2010.org. Antonio, Texas 78223, Ph. (210) 333-7229, www.ucg.org/feast. Rocky Harbor, tour: UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Anchorage: LCG, Indiana—Auburn: COGMI, E-mail: E-mail:[email protected], churchofgodsa. Newfoundland: LCG, www. www.ucg.org/feast. www.cogl.org. Alaska Cruise: Church of God [email protected]. Jasonville: com. Satler: Embassy of God at Kirby, Texas, cogl.org. Halifax, Nova Scotia: COGMI, E- Kenya—Isibania: LCG, www.cogl.org. Nakuru: Big Sandy, Dennis Mouland, (928) 460-0230, E- Yahweh’s Restoration Ministry, www.yrm.org. Charles Jordan, 432 Frost St., San Antonio, TX mail: [email protected]. Collingwood, UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. mail: [email protected]. Montgomery: ICG, P.O. Box 1117, Tyler, TX 78201, (210) 733-1136, E-mail: eogkirby@ Ontario: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Malawi—Cape Maclear: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Arizona—Prescott: Sabbath Keepers of Arizona 75703, (903) 561-7070. sbcglobal.net. www.ucg.org/feast. Collingwood, Ontario: www.ucg.org/feast. Our Father’s Festival, ww.ourfathersfestival.net. Kentucky—Land Between the Lakes: CGI, West Virginia—Snowshoe: UCG, (513) 576- Canadian Church of God, www. Malaysia—Penang: LCG, www.cogl.org. Tawau (Note dates: Oct. 2-12, 2010.) Prescott: LCG, James Pollitte, (903) 825-5921. E-mail: 9796,www.ucg.org/feast. canadianchurchofgod.com. Niagara Falls, City, Sabah: UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.cogl.org. [email protected]. Pennyrile State Park: Wisconsin—Portage: The Church of God, (920) Ontario: CGI, www.cgi.org. Thornbury, www.ucg.org/feast. Arkansas—Conway: Points of Truth Ministries, Church of God Omaha, (712) 764-2752, E-mail: 349-3604, www.t-cog.org, E-mail: droth@ncon- Ontario: Canadian Church of God (CGOM), Martinique—Sainte-Luce: LCG, www.cogl.org. Larry Lasiter, (479) 498-4524, P.O. Box 102, [email protected]. (Note dates: Oct. 24-31, nect.net. Wisconsin Dells: UCG, (513) 576- www.cgom.org. Mont Orford, Quebec: LCG, Mauritius—Flic-en-Flac: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Russellville, AR 72811, E-mail: lasiter@ 2010.) 9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Wisconsin Dells: www.cogl.org. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan: www.ucg.org/feast. pointsoftruth.com. Harrison: CGI, Durand Maryland—Baltimore: CGI and Affiliates– LCG, www.cogl.org. UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Mexico—San Miguel de Allende: UCG, (513) Baltimore, P.O. Box 2525, Tyler, TX 75710, (903) Chile—El Quisco: LCG, www.cogl.org. Lican 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Conference Center, Ron Elkins, (870) 653-6043, NON-U.S. SITES E-mail: [email protected]. 939-2929, www.cgi.org, E-mail: [email protected]. Ray: UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Tolantongo, (Hildago): LCG, www.cogl.org. California—Carlsbad: Rock Valley Christian Michigan—Eaton Rapids: Assembly of Yahweh, Argentina—Mendoza: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Congo—Kinshasa: UCG, (513) 576-9796, New Guinea—Wewak, Papua: LCG, Church, www.feastoftabernacles.us/. 1017 N. Gunnell Rd., Eaton Rapids, MI 48827, www.ucg.org/feast. Islas del Delta: LCG, www.ucg.org/feast. www.cogl.org. Escondido: UCG, (513) 576-9796, (517) 663-1268, www.assemblyofyahweh.com. www.cogl.org. Estonia—Saaremaa: UCG, (513) 576-9796. New Zealand—Napier: UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Kings Beach: ICG, P.O. (Note dates: Sept. 25-Oct. 2, 2010.) Australia—Bellina, New South Wales: CGI, France—Hyeres: LCG, www.cogl.org. Portbail, www.ucg.org/feast. Nelson, South Island: Box 1117, Tyler, TX 75703, (903) 561-7070. Missouri—Branson: UCG, (513) 576- www.cgi.org, 61-7-5463-2949, E-mail: Normandy: UCG, (513) 576-9796, LCG, www.cogl.org. Lake Tahoe: Lifesource Ministries, P.O. Box 9796,www.ucg.org/feast. Branson: LCG, [email protected]. Merimbula, New www.ucg.org/feast. Nigeria: LCG, www.cogl.org. 66540, Albuquerque, NM 87193, www.lifere- www.cogl.org. Branson: Church of God, in South Wales: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Germany—Schluchsee: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Peru—El Cusco: LCG, www.cogl.org. source.org. Mandalay Beach: Church of God Truth, P.O. Box 1120, Kimberling City, MO www.ucg.org/feast. Caloundra, Queens- www.ucg.org/feast. Huanchaco: UCG, (513) 576-9796, in Peace and Truth, P.O. Box 929, Gold Hill, OR 65686, (417) 338-0033, www.postponements. land: Christian Educational Services, Australia, Ghana—Mpraeso: UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. 97525, www.cogpt.org. Pismo Beach: Church com, E-mail: cogit@flash.net. Branson: www.cesa.org.au. Sunshine Coast, www.ucg.org/feast. Philippines—Baguio City: UCG, (513) 576- of the Eternal God, www.eternalgod.org, COGMl, E-mail: [email protected]. Queensland: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Guatemala—Antigua: UCG, (513) 576-9796, 9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Baguio City: LCG, E-mail: [email protected]. Santa Rosa: Branson: International Congregation of www.ucg.org/feast. Victor Harbor, South www.ucg.org/feast. Quetzaltenango: LCG, www.cogl.org. Davao City: UCG, (513) 576- Hallel Fellowship, www.hallel.info. Squaw Yahweh, P.O. Box 208, Pocahontas, AR 72455, Australia: LCG, www.cogl.org. Ulverstone, www.cogl.org. 9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Davao City: LCG, Valley: Guardian Ministries, P.O. Box 50734, (870) 892-5419, E-mail: [email protected]. Tasmania: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Guyana—Awarewaunau: LCG, www.cogl.org. www.cogl.org. Iloilo City: UCG, (513) 576- Pasadena, CA 91115, E-mail: davidantion@ Kimberling: ICG, P.O. Box 1117, Tyler, TX www.ucg.org/feast. Rockingham, Western Georgetown: LCG, www.cogl.org. 9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Manila: CGI, earthlink.net. 75703, (903) 561-7070. Lake of the Ozarks www.cgi.org. Marangkalan, Capiz Colorado—Colorado Springs: Churchlight State Park: Way, Truth, Life, (417) 683-1929, Province: Church of God, in Truth, P.O. Box www.waytruthlife.com. (Note dates: Oct. 3-12, 1120, Kimberling City, MO 65686, (417) 338- Publishing Association, www.churchlight. These are the Feast of Tabernacles sites for 2010 THE JOURNAL was aware of at press time. net/2010holydays. (Note dates: Oct. 24-31, 2010.) Lake of the Ozarks: Season of Our 0033, www.postponements.com, E-mail: 2010.) Palisade: Christian Church of God, Joy, P.O. Box 1633, Hawkins, TX 75765, (903) Information for the listing comes from www.feastgoer.org, other Web sites and information cogit@flash.net. (970) 858-9299, (970) 434-1284, or toll-free, 769-2750, E-mail: n55154@aol. sent directly TO THE JOURNAL by Feast organizers and JOURNAL readers. ¶ Unless otherwise stat- Portugal—Costa da Caparica: UCG, (513) 576- com. Pomona: Church of God Southern (866) 202-0748, www.ccofgod.org, E-mail: ed, each listing represents an observance beginning Wednesday evening, Sept. 22, 2010, and 9796, www.ucg.org/feast. [email protected]. Steamboat Springs: Missouri, 4333 State Route N, Pomona, MO Rwanda—Muhazi: UCG, (513) 576-9796, UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. 65789, E-mail: [email protected]. Roche- continuing through Thursday, Sept. 30 (referred to as the Last Great Day, Great Last Day or www.ucg.org/feast. Florida—Daytona Beach: UCG, (513) 576-9796, port: Yahweh’s Assembly in Messiah, (573) Eighth Day in many Churches of God). ¶ The listing abbreviates Church of God International South Africa—George: UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Destin: Church of God Big 698-4335, www.yaim.org, E-mail: (CGI), Tyler, Texas; Intercontinental Church of God (ICG), Tyler; Living Church of God (LCG), www.ucg.org/feast. Still Bay: LCG, Sandy, P.O. Box 690, Big Sandy, Texas 75755, offi[email protected]. www.cogl.org. Uvongo: UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.churchofgodbigsandy.com, (800) 946- New York—Cobleskill: LCG, www.cogl.org. Charlotte, N.C.; United Church of God an International Association (UCG), Milford, Ohio; and www.ucg.org/feast. 5545. Destin: ICG, P.O. Box 1117, Tyler, TX Oklahoma—Ardmore/Lake Murray State Church of God Ministries International (COGMI). Note that some phone numbers refer to a Sri Lanka: UCG, (513) 576-9796, 75703, (903) 561-7070. Fort Walton Beach: Park: Congregation of YHWH, www.yahsaves. church’s headquarters in the United States rather than a local Feast contact. www.ucg.org/feast. Sri Lanka: LCG, Christian Educational Ministries, P.O. Box 560, org. (Note dates: Oct. 22-29, 2010.) Broken www.cogl.org. Whitehouse, TX 75791, www.borntowin.net. Bow: www.truthontheweb.org. (Note dates: Thailand—Chiang Mai: Legacy Institute, (626) Sept. 25-Oct. 2, 2010.) Wagoner: CGI, 357-2588, E-mail: [email protected]. Fort Walton Beach: COGMI, E-mail: webser- www.cgi.org. Australia: UCG, (513) 576-9796, India—Hyderabad: UCG, (513) 576-9796, [email protected]. Lantana: Florida www.ucg.org/feast. Togo—Kpalime: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Oregon—Bend-Redmond: UCG, (513) 576- www.ucg.org/feast. www.ucg.org/feast. Christian Church of God, (561) 547-4952, E- 9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Newport: LCG, Bahamas—Nassau: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Indonesia—Batu: LCG, www.cogl.org. mail: [email protected]. (Note dates: Oct. 24-31, www.ucg.org/feast. Trinidad and Tobago—Crown Point: LCG, www.cogl.org. Israel—Jerusalem: Congregation of Yahweh www.cogl.org. Trinidad: Church of God, 2010.) Milton: Congregation of Yahweh, Pennsylvania—Bushkill: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Barbados—Barbados: LCG, www.cogl.org. Jerusalem, www.coyhwh.com. (Note dates: Oct. www.congregationofyhwhmilton.org. (Note Christ Church: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Ministries International, E-mail: www.ucg.org/feast. 23-30, 2010.) Jerusalem: International [email protected]. dates: Oct. 22-29, 2010.)Panama City: LCG, South Carolina—North Myrtle Beach: Church www.ucg.org/feast. Christian Embassy Jerusalem, www.icej.org. www.cogl.org. Panama City Beach: UCG, of God Big Sandy, (800) 946-5545, P.O. Box Bolivia—Cochabamba: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Jerusalem: International Christian Zionist United Kingdom—Kendal, Lake District, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Panama 690, Big Sandy, TX 75755, www.churchofgod- www.ucg.org/feast. Center, www.israelmybeloved.com. Jerusalem: England: Seventh Day Christians, City Beach: Whole World Church of God, bigsandy.com. South Myrtle Beach: CGI, Brazil—Maloca de Moscou: UCG, (513) 576- Origins of our Faith, (253) 569-6228, www. www.sdcuk.org.uk. Windermere, Lake District, (850) 784-0663, www.congregationyhwhpc. Mike Nolen, (843) 761-5211, www.cgi.org, 9796, www.ucg.org/feast. originsofourfaith.com, E-mail: rick@ England: Church of God, John A. Jewell, 27 Old com. Pinellas Park: CGI, Pinellas Park E-mail: [email protected]. Burundi—Buseruko: UCG, (513) 576-9796, originsofourfaith.com. (Note dates: Sept. 21- Gloucester St., London WC1N 3XX, England, Performing Arts, (727) 541-0805. St. Texas—Big Sandy: Church of God Big Sandy, www.ucg.org/feast. Oct. 3, 2010.) whatnextmedia.com. Stirling, Scotland: Petersburg: Church of God in Miami and CGI, (800) 946-5545, P.O. Box 690, Big Sandy, Texas Cameroon—Douala: UCG, (513) 576-9796, Italy—Sabaudia: UCG, (513) 576-9796, UCG, (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. P.O. Box 831566, Miami, FL 33283, (305) 752- 75755, www.churchofgodbigsandy.com. www.ucg.org/feast. Douala: LCG, www.ucg.org/feast. Llangollen, North Wales: LCG, www.cogl. 5275, E-mail: [email protected]. Canyon Lake: South Texas Church of God, www.cogl.org. Ivory Coast—La Me: UCG, (513) 576-9796, org. Newtown, Powys, North Wales: The Georgia—Helen: LCG, www.cogl.org. Terry Post, P.O. Box 1089, La Vernia, TX 78121, Canada—Kelowna, British Columbia: UCG, www.ucg.org/feast. Man: UCG, (513) 576- Congregation of Yahweh in UK, Kennesaw: Congregation of God Seventh (830) 947-3564, E-mail: terrypost@aireplastics. (513) 576-9796, www.ucg.org/feast. 9796, www.ucg.org/feast. www.congyah.co.uk. Day, P.O. Box 2345, Kennesaw, GA 30156, (707) com. Kerrville: UCG, (513) 5769796,www.ucg. Penticton, British Columbia: LCG, Jamaica—Montego Bay: LCG, www.cogl.org. Vanuatu—Orap, Malekula: LCG, www.cogl.org. 427-4189. org/feast. New Braunfels: LCG, www.cogl. www.cogl.org. Victoria, British Columbia: Ocho Rios: CGI, Ian Boyne, 926-765-2160, Zimbabwe—Vicoria Falls: UCG, (513) 576- Illinois—Utica: Church of God Fellowship, org. San Antonio: Church of God San CGI, www.cgi.org. Moncton, New E-Mail: [email protected]. 9796, www.ucg.org/feast. Divine help can bail us out or can let us go through trials Continued from page 1 The exhortation came immediately towed back to Canberra, lose the and I know that a friendly spirit realm want divine actions to be repeatable meters per hour (70 miles per hour). and urgently. I thought for a few sec- weekend completely, organize a tem- exists. and even testable. But of course God Back then there were no villages or onds more and, feeling a bit odd, took porary vehicle, perhaps be unable to does not let Himself be experimented towns along it, no service stations, no my foot off the accelerator: 110, 100, return to work for several days, and do What about others who need help? upon any more than humans do. comfort stops, no emergency tele- 90, finally 80, which felt like crawling. all of this on a tiny budget with no However, some aspects of this What is predictable about God is phones, no streetlights. Mobile phones I thought back again: “Will this do?” reserves. episode bother me. Why was I given His love of justice, righteousness— didn’t exist. No reply, so I concluded it would. I am quite convinced God saved me this kind of help? Why me? Why and mercy. The first half of the road went With cars I had overtaken now from financial disaster and from then? How many other people have through lightly settled farmland, the overtaking me, I carefully chugged myself, even though I hadn’t asked for ruined their engines or worse and Getting there second half through dark, lonely bush- into Mittagong, simultaneously confi- it. Was I grateful? Was I embarrassed? received no divine help at all when Christ as God’s delegate has told land with some steepish grades. After dent that my engine would be quite all Did I maintain my car better after- seemingly they deserved to? me to unload all my cares and con- Mittagong, home lay What about more-weighty matters, cerns onto Him but didn’t tell me to another three hours’ such as people who die young or switch my brains off. He and the drive to the southwest Know how it is when someone speaks to you and stops painfully and slowly of illness or Father expect me to learn from each on slow, twisting, speaking and you remember what was said? I had a distinct injury? Why does God not intervene experience and try not to make the overtrafficked roads. for them? same mistake twice. memory that someone had spoken to me calmly and clearly. When I was 8 why did God let me I’m getting there. Unsolicited advice fall headfirst more than 11 feet until the ______So here I was pounding along the right and a bit apprehensive that it wards? An emphatic yes to all three ground broke my fall and both wrists The preceding article is the fifth in freeway, maintaining an average speed might yet seize up in spite of my heed- questions. and dealt my head a colossal blow? THE JOURNAL’s series about experi- close to the limit, working my engine ing the warning. By the way, I’m glad I didn’t hear In the wider scheme of things how ences readers have had that they think hard indeed. I overtook car after car It didn’t. Mittagong is not a large actual voices. Joan of Arc apparently do I demonstrate that God is not unre- may have involved angels. (lots of dawdlers that evening) and was town, and back then only one service did, and look what happened to her. liable at best and useless or nonexis- If you have had such an experience, only about 10 minutes out of Mittagong station out of its five or six opened at tent at worst? THE JOURNAL would like to hear from when—someone spoke to me. night. Help to my faith The simple, perhaps facile, conclu- you. Send your story, along with your Well, no, not exactly spoke. Know At least there was one. As you can This experience has been a great sion is that God helps us address and phone number and a how it is when someone speaks to you imagine, I was bursting with curiosity help to my faith. Along with it I know only when it is good for good-quality recent photograph of and stops speaking and you remember about the oil level. I have received divine help in other us to be helped. you, to [email protected] or what was said? ways over the years. Help sometimes in- P.O. Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas That’s how it was. Suddenly I had a Nothing on the dipstick Yes, most help came because I volves bailing us out 75755, U.S.A. Or fax distinct memory that someone had Unbelievable. Nothing, nothing, on asked for it, but some of it came of minor scrapes, and your story to (903) spoken to me and had said, calmly and the dipstick. Nothing except a faint, before I even knew I needed it. sometimes letting 636-9097. THE JOUR- clearly: “Slow down. There’s no oil in thin sheen of oil. For the record, I have also had re- us go through NAL will consider print- the engine.” According to the owner’s hand- quests answered with an immediate, stern trials. ing your article in a I pondered this for a few seconds— book, the amount of oil I poured in flat “No.” Some peo- future issue. well, this sort of thing didn’t happen corresponded to a completely empty I have accumulated a little mental ple tran- For more JOUR- every day, did it?—then surveyed the sump and a nearly empty oil filter. My card index of God’s instances of help, scend their NAL articles about dashboard lights and needles and lis- engine was surviving on the small and when I feel down or uncertain I go troubles. angels, see “Did an tened carefully to the engine. amount of oil left in the filter. The back through the cards and revisit the Others are Angelic Couple Vis- warning had been quite correct. times and places. absolutely it a Texas Hospital in Careful chugging Say I’d not heeded it, what then? diminished 1981?” in issue No. All seemed well. I didn’t reply by My engine would have seized up be- I know what I know by them. I am 134, “Motorist Be- talking back. I thought back: to the fore Mittagong. If anyone asks what proof I have still developing ways to lieves Helpful Truck Driv- angel of God or my subconscious or I would have had to flag down a that God exists, I can adduce the Argu- account for this. er Was an Angel” in issue No. 136, whatever the voice represented. You passing car (at night on a freeway), get ment from Experience. One thing I’ve noticed over the “Angels Can Be Helpful, but They thought at me, so I’ll think at you. my car towed into town, spend at least Sure, many people will not be con- years is that for me the occasions of Don’t Like to Socialize” in issue No. “Looks okay here,” I thought. one night and maybe two in town, find vinced by anything so personal, but it God’s help are unique. Each one is 137 and “CGI Member Believes “No! Slow down! There’s no oil in a mechanic able to rebuild Renault doesn’t matter what they think. different. There’s no pattern. Angel Protected Him During Crash” it!” came the voice-memory. engines, likely fail and get the car I know what I have gone through, This bothers some skeptics. They in issue No. 138. 28 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Debaters disagree about Paul, the birth narratives, the canon Continued from page 12 Art Mokarow: You know what? send you some of my books, because By the way [regarding the alleged Ron Moseley: But the Ten Com- was the God of a cultic people on an I’m following, in the last 63 years in I went through jealousy and all that. inequality of women in the Bible], in mandments don’t say thou shalt not obscure mountain in an obscure land my Bible study, your path. Everything Genesis, when it says I’ve given you a kill. It says thou shalt not murder. Pre- is the God that is—after you’ve seen he brought up I agree with. Every- Good and bad jealousy help meet, the word ezer kenegedo meditated murder, actually. what the Hubble telescope can see? Of thing. Ron Moseley: All right, here we go. there is “help meet,” and it means Okay. Let’s look at another one. course not. Ron Moseley: Not me. Jealousy, the Hebrew word for jeal- equal. Inspiration can be “verbal plenary,” The God of the Old Testament says Art Mokarow: This is not fair. It’s ousy, has a good and bad side to it. God’s not for slavery. So you say which means full. I don’t know what in the Ten Commandments, which we not fair because he [Mr. Diehl] doesn’t When He says I’m a jealous God, if why’d He give rules for slavery. your belief is, don’t really care, but— tend to revere, you shall have no other have the opportunity to explain every- you read the context, He says I’m jeal- Because it was already there. But He I mean I don’t because I’m not threat- gods before Me, right? That’s how we thing that brought him to his thinking. ous like a husband. says if you’re going to have a slave, as ened by what you believe. You could view it in our culture. I went through all his thinking. He Then He goes on clearly in the we see with Philemon in the New say everything you said is malarkey From what I understand, a better Testament, He says you’re going to and I’d say amen, I’m glad you’re rendition of that is you shall not bring treat him right. happy with that. any other gods into My presence. Art Mokarow: Could I just say one At the time of the giving of the Ten thing? The word isha in the Hebrew: Defining ‘inspiration’ Commandments polytheism was alive He made woman equal to man. The But nevertheless the word inspira- and well, and God was not offended word isha means in Hebrew “another tion has been blown—I couldn’t more that there were other gods. There were. point of view.” agree with you—it’s been stretched, There were lots of gods. Just don’t pulled— bring them into My presence, because The answers shall be first It’s like when one of these old boys I the Lord your God am jealous. Ron Moseley: Paul does quote gets a tattoo of an ant on his shoulder And as a kid, preÐWorldwide Jesus all the time. He [Mr. Diehl] said and by the time he’s 60 years old it Church of God, I thought: What kind why did Paul write two thirds of the looks like an eagle drug down to his of God is jealous? That’s a human New Testament. Because, in the New knees. Can I get a witness? thing. Testament, all these cats who were A good definition, I think a biblical with Jesus died or had gone off to definition, of inspiration is—since we Can’t mean what it never meant India: Matthew and all these guys don’t have autographed originals any- But when you understand the con- except John. more—that it is a man-written transla- text—you shall not bring any other He tells John on the cross take care tion that points us— gods, which we all know exist because of my mother because you’re the only It may have some mistakes, but we’re polytheists, into My presence one not going to get killed here. Even none of the general stuff’s changed. because I’m a superior god, and I’ll his brother gets killed. For example, Isaiah in the Dead Sea tell you why, it’s because I’m a jealous Paul is like the game show Jeop- Scrolls is 95 percent accurate. God and I don’t want them around— ardy! We don’t have the questions, so It points us to Him who is perfect, WHITEHOUSE VENUE—Gary Woodring (right), visits with Ron Moseley, one of that’s far different from there are no the three debaters. Mr. Woodring, along with Dennis Hughes, is an elder of the it’s dangerous for us to make doctrine and I dare you to find something wrong other gods and what we have evolved Tyler Sabbath Fellowship, in whose building the debate took place. [Photo by out of Paul’s writing. with Him. So that’s the purpose of that scripture into meaning. Dixon Cartwright] All we see is him fire back and say the book: to point us to Him who is You cannot make it mean what it put that old boy on some kind of perfect. never meant. It never meant monothe- excommunication for two weeks and These little nitpicky things, I could ism was always the truth of the Old hasn’t said one thing that I already other verse about worldly jealousy. I’ll be down there with a stick. I’m explain them—I will if I have time— Testament. hadn’t already checked and studied. God does not have that type of jeal- going to hit him in the head with an like the thing with the birth narratives. God used to have a consort, Ash- Not one. ousy. So, yes, a good husband could eight-iron, and we’re going to All of this is very easily explained erah. She’s been written out of the text And everything he said was right. be jealous if some rinky-dink was try- straighten this thing out. because I had the same questions and and turned into a wooden pole. But It’s all correct. He’s just on the path ing to run off with his woman. So we have the answers, like the went through every one of them. I God had a consort. All the gods had and hasn’t finished. But monotheism is completely the game show Jeopardy!, but we don’t haven’t found one today that I’m hav- consorts. I haven’t finished. I believe in the story of the biblical text. They asked have the questions. ing a problem with. God he talked about. He’s nondescrip- Jesus what is the most important thing Can God be jealous? tive. You see, because He is the JHVH in all the Hebrew scriptures. [Dr. Accurately quotes OT Revelation was a booklet So can you believe in God without He can be whatever He wants to be. Moseley quotes it first in Hebrew, then As far as James and Paul teaching In 70 A.D. the book of Revelation a Bible? Absolutely. I do. I just don’t You can’t describe God. in English:] Hear, O Israel, the Lord something different, Paul went to the was a pamphlet passed around to en- know how to define it. But it’s not the The Sumerians started all faiths, all our God is one. gentiles. courage people not to quit when the cultic god, the only description we see religions, all denominations, Christian Now, secondly—or twenty-second- Paul said: The law is good, spiritu- temple era stopped. It was written, by in the Bible. I would like to think that and otherwise, at the Tower of Babel. ly, who knows?—it says God said to al and perfect, and there wasn’t any the way, about 68, and I can prove that God isn’t jealous, that God doesn’t kill All the splits we have today, all the them take all the virgins for yourselves. Scripture, by the way. Why didn’t if I have the time. people randomly, doesn’t slaughter denominations, all started there. But that’s not what it says. Even in Paul quote Jesus? Because the Gos- It was written before the destruc- His way through the Old Testament. I could go through each of their the King James it says take all the pels weren’t written down when Paul tion of the temple. It never mentions In the Bible God is credited with history, because I went from where children virgins so they will not be took off. So he didn’t have any scrip- the destruction of the temple, which is 2,138,000 murders. If you add up the he [Mr. Diehl] is and now am beyond raised in paganism, and then you turn tures except the Old Testament. the most important thing ever among numbers, just the numbers in Chron- that because of gentlemen like Dr. them into good godly wives: children And Paul quotes the Old Testament the Jews. icles: 2,138,000 killings by God’s Moseley. virgins. It doesn’t say take a bunch of so accurately that he had to know The book of Hebrews says when request of Israel or deliberately doing I tell you this: The day’s going to virgins and make polytheistic con- Hebrew because the Bible says that this happens do not accept Jesus and it Himself, according to the story. come he’s going to change, and I’m cepts out of it or anything else. It says when Paul says you’re the temple of then go back and lose your faith. Why In the Bible, Satan kills 10 people, saying this because it changed me. the children virgins. the Holy Ghost that’s what it says in were they saying that? with God’s permission: the children of Now, why do I believe in the Bible? Hebrew. And God came and dwelled Because the temple basically, for Job. Because I try to disprove it. I spent 60 Does God tempt or not? in him, in men. many, was almost their faith, and it That’s disturbing to me. I have a years, 40 of which to disprove it, and Every time you see God killing But in the English version and most was about to be destroyed. It says hard time following a God who allows all I did was prove it. Do I believe the someone He’s warned them, fore- translations it says He dwelled among Jesus is better than the temple, He’s pregnant women to be bashed and better than the altar, He’s better than their children to be smashed against the blood of goats and bulls. And He’s the wall, and I have trouble with a rule Mr. Diehl: ‘I believe in God. I just don’t know much preparing them not to go back. in the Old Testament that you can take Here’s why they would go back. the virgins, kill any woman that’s not more about it. But I don’t believe in slaughter God. I don’t Nero was the emperor, and Nero had a virgin, get rid of her. But the virgins a rule. you can keep for yourselves. believe in cultic God. I don’t believe in jealous God.’ For what purpose? What do you Leaving the umbrella of Judaism think? Now, Christianity was a part of It’s rude, it’s crude, and it’s not to Bible is the holy Word of God? Yes, warned them, He’s said if you don’t them. But the Hebrew says in him, as Judaism up till about 64, then it real- me the ultimate definition of a God because I can’t disprove it. repent you will be wiped out, and a tabernacle. So Paul catches that and ly separated about 90, but in 64 they being. Ron Moseley: You need to leave then, when they’re about like in puts it right in there accurately. began to branch off in two groups. I believe in God. I just don’t know me some time. Noah’s day, when they’re about to When they got out from under the much more about it. But I don’t be- corrupt the whole world and send the OT violence justified? umbrella of Judaism, Rome said to lieve in slaughter God. I don’t believe Three people at different places whole thing to hell with a hat on, then Reg Killingley: Okay, thank you Judaism, as long as it’s peaceful, we in cultic God. I don’t believe in jeal- Art Mokarow: What I’m saying is He wipes them out. Only then. very much, Dr. Moseley. We will skip will leave you alone because you ous God. this: We are all on paths. He’s [Dr. Satan is the tempter. James 1 says I the one question I had here and go to were grandfathered in as a faith be- I believe that human beings are Moseley’s] my friend. He’s my blood [God] tempt no man, but you say the next one. This is the time that Mr. fore Rome. more than what we are. But I just brother. [referring to Genesis 22:1] that the Diehl has given up. So it will be, if I’m Every new religion [in the Roman don’t know what it is. I’m willing to We’re on the same path, but I’ll be Bible says He tempted Abraham. correct, answered by this team. Empire] has to give a sacrifice and get spend the rest of my life wondering somewhere else, God willing, in a Do you know there’s 50 different Now, the question is: Why is the a little certificate saying the emperor is and being grateful for the ability to year from now. Or five years from definitions for the word say in He- God-ordained violence of the Old honored. Christians wouldn’t do that. think it through. I’m not inspired by now. brew? It’s a pictorial language. Like- Testament justified? Mr. Diehl had ad- Jews wouldn’t do that, but they let the Old Testament. It’s a vicious, vio- Or otherwise I’m believing in dog- wise when God said “tempt” He dressed this already. the Jews slide as long as they were lent book, and there are parts of it you matic doctrine and I bury my talent meant I’m going to test you. Ron Moseley: We just did address peaceful. wouldn’t read to your children. and I’m not growing. I don’t know where you all come this. Let’s go to another one. But, when the Christians separated, When you leave here, understand from, but from where I come from Art Mokarow: Can I just say one Nero said you guys are a new religion. Wound up you’re hearing three people at differ- you can’t get out of the first grade thing—because God did flood the You say you’re not a part of Judaism Reg Killingley: Thank you, Mr. ent places in their life of understand- without a test. world and kill everybody? God cannot anymore? You’re going to have to Diehl. And now the same question: ing what the world’s about. We’re just I don’t want to be on pabulum all murder. The reason: because He’d give sacrifice to the emperor. Can you believe in God without be- telling you where we are. Okay? my life. I want to have some steak break His commandment. But the rea- Many of them were big-mouthers, lieving in the Bible? Reg Killingley: Mr. Diehl has gra- every once in a while, but I’m going to son He can’t murder is because He can but when it came to giving their life Art Mokarow: I think I want to ciously agreed to give up his next five have to grow some teeth. Can I get a resurrect you. they went back into Judaism. give a principle here. minutes so Dr. Moseley can have a witness in here? That’s what we You see, the difference between That’s why Hebrews 6 says how Ron Moseley: All right. Leave me full five minutes. Baptists used to say: Can I get a wit- murder and killing: Only man can kill dare you taste of the goodness of God some time. I’m wound up. Ron Moseley: Well, bless your ness? you, or murder you, because he can’t and go back, denying Jesus. Art Mokarow: Well, me too. heart. I’m going to have to give you a But the devil’s a killer, not God. bring you back to life. God cannot The book of Revelation? It was a Dennis Diehl: I was wondering raise. God said I don’t want you to offer murder anybody because He can bring gospel tract passed around in the 1st when you were going to get wound up. Art Mokarow: Hey, I’m going to these children to these pagan gods. you back to life—and will. See DEBATERS CAN’T, page 29 Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) THE JOURNAL 29 Debaters can’t agree on evolution, creation, nature of Bible Continued from page 28 The letters were written to Paul. Dennis Diehl: How can that possi- God will allow free choice for Dennis Dennis Diehl: I’m sure. century. That’s why they put it in in They’re not going to write to a guy bly be recorded in the Bible so quick- and Ron and me. All right? He’ll Art Mokarow: Me too. the 2nd century as part of the canon who tells them they’ve got to be cir- ly as a problem in the church? That allow it because when we become like because they said God’s going to win cumcised when these guys are God- would be like me saying there was no Him, when we see Him as He is—all Hundreds of scientists in the end. fearers, meaning that you can get all Elvis, there was no John Kennedy, right?—we will always follow Him in Dennis Diehl: It’s an endless topic, the benefits of Judaism; it’s called there were no Beatles. faith. Right? because sometimes obviously, if one The primacy of Paul proselyte at the gate. They came to the Art Mokarow: That’s a good ques- But we will be individually think- believes that Genesis has to be literal- Art Mokarow: Could I just make gate but never joined. They never tion. ing and coming up with our imagina- ly true, then evolution has to be liter- one point? were card-carrying Pharisees. They Dennis Diehl: I can see it coming tions, which Adam and Eve weren’t ally false. And that’s the position we Reg Killingley: In fact, your side never joined the church. up a thousand years later, but not de- ready to handle. Okay? defended [in the WCG]. will get this first question, so Dr. Mo- cades, not two decades, later. I can’t [Regarding Dr. Moseley’s com- karow will go first. The question is: Circumcision not necessary envision it, so I’m suspicious. Evolution is out of time ments that scientists believe in the Why is Paul so prominent when he But they could come, they could I recommend if you want to read Ron Moseley: There’s five points to Bible story of creation:] That’s anec- was never one of the 12? You first, Dr. fellowship, they could enjoy, they the other side of the Paul issue Hyam having a hypothesis proven in science, dotal. Who are these scientists? For Mokarow. could go to all the festivals, they Maccoby’s book Paul the Mythmaker and evolution doesn’t have enough every scientist that says, oh, the Bible Art Mokarow: That’s a very good tithed, they gave. But they did not [full title The Mythmaker: Paul and time or fossils to be any one of them, is true and I’m a scientist, there are question. Who thought up that ques- have to be circumcised. the Invention of Christianity]. It’s ex- and I would love to talk to you at hundreds or thousands who say, no, tion? And why would you run to some cellent. another time about that, because my you can’t mix— Ron Moseley: He did. old boys trying to cut you when you Ron Moseley: It is a good book. science teacher was my Hebrew Once you mix the Bible in with sci- Art Mokarow: Very good. could go to Paul, who said you can Dennis Diehl: Hyam is writing teacher, and he also taught sex thera- ence, you don’t have science. You’ve I wanted to say this one thing. Read come in free? from the Jewish perspective about this py. But we won’t go into that. got to keep them separate. It’s either and hear everything Dennis is telling And they’re writing him letters. man called the apostle Paul. Art Mokarow: I just want to add science or the Bible. Okay. you because everything he’s saying is He’s just answering their letters. one thing, and there’s one top cosmol- You can’t have an equation on the right, basically. Everything he’s [Dr. That’s why he’s got two thirds of it. Free choice ogist who said mathematically if we wall that has mathematical symbols Moseley’s] saying is right. Every- And why’s the New Testament called Reg Killingley: For our last part— put together all the time you want— and then in the middle of the equation thing, you’ll find out, I’m saying is the New Testament? Because he’s and I gather that Dr. Moseley has a forget thirteen and a half billion years, it says “Then a miracle happens,” and right. writing to non-Jews instead of Jews. plane to catch so we do need to wrap okay?—if we went to a trillion or a then the equation continues. And I’m for you [Mr. Diehl] in your The whole Old Testament’s to Jews. up—I have a couple more questions googol, okay?— Ron Moseley: One example. experience with dogma because I was Reg Killingley: Dennis, you have that I have written down. I could read Ron Moseley: A googolplex. Dennis Diehl: One example isn’t in the same institution. Right? Same your five minutes on this question one of the questions and then open it Art Mokarow: It doesn’t matter. going to change my mind. prison. about Paul’s prominence when he was up to the floor. The best you would have had today, Ron Moseley: No, I mean you give Dennis Diehl: Good word. never one of the 12. So first question, and we can start if evolution were true, is one cell. me one. out with Mr. Mokarow, Dr. Moseley: Mathematically it’s impossible. There’s Truth never stops Paul by the book If the Bible is indeed the Word of God not enough time. And I mean these Hippos and whales Art Mokarow: But anyway truth is Dennis Diehl: Thank you. I think why don’t all human beings accept it are top, top people in the field who Dennis Diehl: I can give you plen- ongoing. It never stops. I’ve answered it, you know, to my sat- as such? Or does it appeal only to admit it. ty of evidence that a land animal about The Sabbath was written two dif- isfaction. I told you where I stand on weak or superstitious people who Ron Moseley: The word rib means the size of a hippopotamus turned into ferent ways to the Israelites. a whale. You can take a whale skele- In Exodus 20 the Sabbath was a ton apart and find hip bones and pelvis sign to enter God’s rest. from legs that no longer exist. You read Deuteronomy 5 when he Dr. Moseley: ‘The Bible points us to Him who is perfect, and I Ron Moseley: You can take a can- [Moses] came down from the moun- dare you to find something wrong with Him. So that’s the nibal apart and find my grandmother tain after he broke the scroll, and that maybe but that doesn’t mean she ate Fourth Commandment is written dif- purpose of the book: to point us to Him who is perfect.’ him. ferently. Read it. That commandment Dennis Diehl: That kind of talk is [in Deuteronomy 5]: They’re not not scientific. You can make fun of going into God’s rest into the Prom- Paul. Paul is the author of Christianity, need a crutch or who are afraid of the cell. I’m not saying He cloned Eve, ideas, but that doesn’t prove anything. ised Land but 40 years into the wilder- not Jesus. It’s just that simple. If you unknown? but the word dust [in Genesis 2:7] I’m simply saying that generalities ness, coming out of slavery yet. That’s go by the book, Paul is the author of Art Mokarow: Excellent. Excel- goes back to the root of a-tom, not about evolution not being true are the difference. You read it. It’s there. Christianity. lent. Who thought of that question? Adam but a-tom, like atom. themselves not true. There is plenty of God changed the sign and meaning James was eventually written out of Ron Moseley: I think that was you. Art Mokarow: And Genesis goes fossil evidence for many, many things [of the Sabbath] from that given by the text. Peter disappears. John disap- Art Mokarow: That’s why I thought back to gene, doesn’t it? in this planet, and most of it has come God before Moses went up to the pears. And that was very accurate. I it was an excellent question. Ron Moseley: You said that. I don’t in the last 30 years. And it’s not true mount to another meaning in Deuter- think we would be better off if we Reg Killingley: The clock is run- know about that. that the fossil record does not show onomy 5 that was only given to Israel. realize that Paul and his Jesus, this ning. evolution. It clearly shows it. That covenant was never given to the cosmic, hallucinatory, not earthly, Art Mokarow: Okay. For one rea- People have books gentiles. Gospel Jesus, was the Jesus he under- son: free choice. It all started in that Reg Killingley: All right. We cer- Beware of generalities Now the question. The reason Paul stood because the Gospels were not garden. Now, it wasn’t a snake wrapped tainly don’t have a googolplex of Art Mokarow: Now, Dennis, let me is mentioned so long is because the written until long after he died. around a tree. It was a beautiful cher- time, but we do have the opportunity just say one thing. I’m willing to ac- attack upon the Church of God, which Paul came first in the New Testa- ub, and he preached the gospel. for Mr. Diehl to answer the same cept your premise. But I’m not willing Dennis brought up very adequately, ment, not the Gospels. So when you That’s another question. I’m not go- question about the Bible: to accept a lot of generality state- was by gnosticism. Gnosticism is not put things in a little better order you ing to get into it. If it is indeed the Word of God, why ments. The big thing that I try to be a religion. Too many people think get a little perspective, perhaps, of He never lied. He didn’t lie. He just don’t all human beings accept it as careful on is not to attack and say gnostics were a religion that crept in how that came about. deceived you. Someday I’d like to tell such? Or does it appeal only to weak that’s not true. like Simon Magus. The apostle Paul never met Jesus in you what Babylon is, but that’s anoth- and superstitious people who need a This is what I hear the liberals say. The fathers—the church fathers— the flesh. He says that he was a Phari- er subject. crutch or who are afraid of the They will deny stats. They will deny were gnostics. see of the Pharisees in Jerusalem at the When God gave His Command- unknown? data that’s proven and say it’s not true. Ron Moseley: Some of them. time of Jesus’ life, so why doesn’t ments and the statutes or the law, he Dennis Diehl: All cultures have Now, I’m not saying you’re false. Paul show up in the Gospels as one of had to because humans were crimi- their books. The Islamic culture has its Ron Moseley: No, me either. Gnosticism means knowledge Jesus’ persecutors? According to the nals. They had a weak nature to sin. books. Those books are the Word of Art Mokarow: What I’m saying is I Art Mokarow: Yes, some of them. I texts, the Pharisees were his chief per- The New Covenant and Old Cove- God to them because that’s their expe- don’t think an honest debater makes mean, Eusebius and [unintelligible], secutors. nant difference is very simple. rience. those statements. Because you do not they were all gnostics. Gnostics are I don’t know. Nobody knows. If One, God tells you what sin is for The Bible is a Middle Eastern know—you do not know—just like I the politically correct of the day. They Paul was there, why isn’t he in the criminals, which we need to know, book that has made its way to the don’t know what brought you to your started in the Garden of Eden. Gospel story? don’t we? West and been redacted, changed, ap- conclusion— Gnosticism means knowledge. You The answer would be, from most The other is people who are being plied, read in certain ways, and it’s Dennis Diehl: Let me just suggest want to read what a gnostic was? Read theologians: because the Gospel sto- changed into the nature of God where our book. The Buddhists have their a simple read of the most recent book Daniel, where they were the wise men ries never heard of Paul. those laws become part of the makeup books. The Hindus have their books. on evolution, Donald Prothero’s book of the time. They had astrologers, The book of Acts is an apologetic of your being. People have books. Evolution: What the Fossils Say and magicians, right? And Daniel, a true written to connect Paul’s writings to You see the difference? You read And nobody belongs to the wrong Why It’s Important [exact title: Evo- prophet. They were all gnostics, or the Gospels to make them seem more Matthew 5, 6 and 7. It starts with the church. I’ve never met one human lution: What the Fossils Say and Why knowledge people, or the wise. You synchronistic, or more homogenous, letter of the law and it ends with the being who said to me I know I belong It Matters]. following me? All right? with each other. spirit of the law, where you become to the false church. I’ve never met one Ron Moseley: I’ve got that book. That’s why Paul deals so much with I’ll tell you what I disagree with. I perfect like your Father in heaven. human being who said I know that the Dennis Diehl: I’ve spent time with it, because it was the political correct- disagree with the concept that the And that has to do with the word books of the culture that I grew up in him personally. It’s an endless topic. ness. There are Egyptian gnostics, In- New Testament is an accurate descrip- pleroo, which all the Sumerians knew are [nonsense]. Art Mokarow: All I’m— dian gnostics, Chinese gnostics, Baby- tion of Pharisees. I disagree with the and understood. They all knew about Because that’s their experience. If Reg Killingley: To get us back— lonian gnostics. I’ll give you a book concept, that you just gave, that Paul perfection. They knew the whole you had grown up in India you would Art Mokarow: What I’m trying to you could read, very tedious and hard. got to write most of the New Testa- gospel. be just as vocal about the Upanishads say is you’re telling these people you It’s called Gnosis. It goes through the ment because he was addressing gnos- But why free choice? Because as you might be about the Bible in the have the facts and we don’t. whole history of all gnosticism, all ticism and so on. God’s making sons, and sons are Western culture. Dennis Diehl: But aren’t you tell- right? That’s why Paul had to do that Ron Moseley: I didn’t say that. what you are. You’re gods when you If you’d grown up Jewish you’d be ing them you do? and spend that time. I’m finished. Art Mokarow: I said that. become like Him, just like Jesus to- just as vocal about Torah and just as Art Mokarow: No. Ron Moseley: Paul was so promi- day is God. anti-Christian as any Jew would be. Ron Moseley: I’m not. nent and not one of the 12 apostles ‘Not come in the flesh’? Right? He’s the Son of God, just That’s your upbringing. Art Mokarow: No. because Jesus said to the 12 apostles Dennis Diehl: Okay, one of the what you will be, okay? It doesn’t If you grew up with Buddhism Ron Moseley: Give me one ex- go only into the Jews and nobody else controversies in the early church was mean you’re the God, the one true you’d be just as Buddhist because ample. because you guys got real problems if any man says that Jesus Christ has God, no. But you’re going to think that’s your upbringing. Art Mokarow: That’s the difference with circumcision and even touching, not come in the flesh he’s an Anti- like Him, because you have faith and That’s why people don’t accept between the three of us. eating, with these other cats. christ. Let him be accursed. trust in Him. Whatever He becomes other people’s books: because that’s Ron Moseley: Well, the Galapagos Remember, God had to tell Peter How on earth can there be a contro- you’ll always obey, like Abraham did, not their experience. finches were proven to be wrong. The three times in Acts 10 to go see Cor- versy so quickly after the birth, death and that’s why he kept the Command- I would like to say that the com- peppered moth was proven to be nelius, and then when he finally went and resurrection of Jesus Christ that ments and statutes and the Torah. ments you made on evolution, while wrong. The Piltdown Man was proven he apologized first thing for even has people in the church believing He Free choice is there because God’s respected, are not true. to be a hoax. Haeckel’s drawings, coming in his house. never existed in the flesh? creation is multiplied by free-mind Ron Moseley: I would like to talk these little guys evolving from a sea But Paul had a non-Jewish dad. Ron Moseley: Good point. thinking, like all of us are doing here. to you about it. See ALL THREE, page 30 30 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) All three debaters believe in God but disagree on who God is Continued from page 29 one example of anything that’s evolved God could have done it through evo- Dennis Diehl: Well, I can’t ask Art Mokarow: No, that isn’t what it horse into a stallion— into anything. lution. But I don’t believe He did. God. He’s not ever answered me when meant. Art Mokarow: See, the point— We’ve got all these theories, but That’s my personal belief. I’ve asked. I’ve never heard a voice. Dennis Diehl: The impression is Reg Killingley: I would really like every time you turn around one of So you can’t take the Bible and say I’m glad. That’s a medication prob- also that you have the answer. to bring— them’s being misproved and like the it’s not scientific—or it is scientific— lem. Art Mokarow: No. Art Mokarow: Go ahead, my Piltdown Man and it was just ab- because it wasn’t written as a science I’m just saying that genealogies and Ron Moseley: One answer. friend. solutely— book. the story of the virgin birth are incom- Art Mokarow: You see, you came Reg Killingley: And of course the Dennis Diehl: But science—sci- Art Mokarow: Now, to me the patible with each other. There’s no up with that guess of what I meant. If whole topic of evolution would make you read the book, I don’t say that. for a debate of its own. Dennis Diehl: I read the book. Ron Moseley: That’d be wonder- Art Mokarow: Well, then, if you ful. I would love to do it, yeah. did you would have learned— Question from the floor The canon of Scripture Reg Killingley: It would. And it Reg Killingley: Excuse me. The would be fascinating, but unfortunate- question had to do with just one item ly we do not have the time. We have to rebut. There was a question in the several other things we want to dis- back. Gentleman in the back, your cuss. question is? There is time now for a question Man in audience: [Unintelligible from the floor for the speakers. Does because of low volume.] anybody have a question that they Reg Killingley: The question con- would like to ask? You could address cerns the canonization of the Hebrew it to whichever side you wish to ad- scriptures and of the scriptures we dress it to. If you don’t, I can move know as the New Testament. right on to the next question. Yes? Art Mokarow: As long as we get Dave Havir: [Unintelligible be- him [Dr. Moseley] on the airplane— cause Mr. Havir, in the audience, was Dennis Diehl: No, I’m concerned not using a microphone.] about the people [in the audience]. Reg Killingley: Just for the record- Art Mokarow: Is it too long for ing purposes, you [Mr. Havir] want to you? Hey, if we’re boring you and not hear from both sides one item that helping you, then we should stop. they would like to have been able to Ron Moseley: Let me give my rebut in each case. So let’s start with answer to this before they walk out. this side, and again we have the five In 400 B.C. Ezra was considered to minutes. be completed. Jesus accepted that by Art Mokarow: I only have one DEBATE AUDIENCE—This is part of the audience of house, Texas. The debaters answered questions posed by saying the three categories: the thing to rebut about, which is where I about 20 people who viewed and heard the debate in the moderator Reg Killingley and members of the audience. Psalms, the Tanakh—T-N-K is what am, how I approach learning, because building owned by the Tyler Sabbath Fellowship in White- [Photo by Dixon Cartwright] they call it—the Torah, the first five all we’re talking about is how we ap- books, the Nev’im, the Prophets, and proach learning. That’s all it is. the Ketubah, the writings, the Psalms. I have learned in my life, and this is ence—found out that it was absolute- conclusive evidence is this, just this need for genealogies if God is the lit- That’s all that he ever says. what I was trying to say to Dennis, I ly false. one statement: You can go to any eral Father. Around the end of the 1st century have to stay away from general state- Ron Moseley: They never admitted discipline, take any group of experts, I also say that most of the people in they already had all 27 books, but ments. it period. and get them together and they don’t the genealogies, there is no record of there was a strict five rule. It wasn’t If you ever read Dr. [Bart] Ehrman, Dennis Diehl: No, they have ad- agree. them in the Bible. some casual vote. There’s five things head of theology [formerly chairman mitted it. They were tricked by their Ron Moseley: That’s the truth. Some of those people exist, but the that were required. They were pretty of the department of religious studies own kind, just as theologians are others that are mentioned are not in stringent to get in there. at the University of North Carolina tricked by their own kind. The genealogies are a moot point the Old Testament. But Jesus could not have come on and currently a professor at UNC], he Ron Moseley: I agree. But it was Reg Killingley: And apparently we Nobody knows where they came the scene, genealogywise, without has found 28,000 errors in the Bible, still a hoax. don’t agree on time here. Let’s move from. having proven He was from the son of 28,000. Dennis Diehl: But it was a trick. It on to Mr. Diehl, who was going to Art Mokarow: Can I just make one David. But you [Mr. Diehl] say He I went through a big majority of was a trick and when they found it— respond to the same question from Mr. comment to that? wasn’t; the Father was His father. them and studied them. What I’m say- Reg Killingley: Excuse me. The Havir from the floor: If there’s one Dennis Diehl: Yes, if you’re al- In Judaism it doesn’t matter who ing: No one human being should five minutes for both sides— thing that you would like to rebut from lowed. your father is—if your mother is a make generalized statements as if they Ron Moseley: Whose time is it? the other side— Reg Killingley: It’s your time. Jew—and it gives Mary’s genealogy alone—and that’s what he’s saying— Reg Killingley: It’s still your time. Dennis Diehl: Yeah, very specifi- Dennis Diehl: Yes, you can have back to David. and not in his heart. You still have a minute. cally you spent a lot of time on the the rest of my time. I’ve made my Reg Killingley: Let’s pass the ques- Ron Moseley: Probably not saying Ron Moseley: Oh. I have a minute! genealogies of Jesus, the 14 genera- time. tion on [to Mr. Diehl] about the can- that. Dennis Diehl: Go for it. tions, and that’s very contrived, and Ron Moseley: They are in the Old onization of— that’s a Jewish technique of writing Testament, No. 1. Some of them are. We’re all just learning These aren’t goofballs what they write. Right? Rahab’s sure in there. Written during the captivity Art Mokarow: In other words, I’m Ron Moseley: All right. For it not But the bottom-line question that Dennis Diehl: I did say some of Dennis Diehl: Yeah, that’s a huge not denying that you believe what you to be science it has to be tested. And theologians have about the genealo- them. Some of them are. one, and I don’t claim expertise on believe, just as I hope you don’t deny there isn’t anybody at this table, I gies is: Why are they important any- that at all. My sense is that I don’t per- what I believe, and I might be right don’t think, that’s smart enough to test way to be in the Bible? Never basic enough sonally believe that Moses wrote the just as you might, right? That’s my God. I’m certainly not the one. There- Christianity says God is the Father Art Mokarow: I’m going to be- Pentateuch. I believe those things point that I’d like you to carry away. fore, science says, since God cannot of Jesus through Mary, right? The vir- come more basic than that. You see, were written during the Babylonian Be extremely patient with where captivity by the Levites. people are. And he’s absolutely right: I’m not sure that Moses existed. We’re a product of our experience. Israel Finkelstein—who wrote exten- I agree with that 1,000 percent. But Mr. Diehl: ‘Paul’s Jesus, this cosmic, hallucinatory, not earthly, sively; I know him personally; I dug be careful. Don’t make yourself the Gospel Jesus, was the Jesus Paul understood because the with him at Megiddo; over 15 years one to know, because we’re all just ago he told me that there is no archae- learning. Gospels were not written until long after Paul died.’ ological evidence for the characters of Ron Moseley: That’s true. You Moses, that these are stories that their know, I didn’t mean to be smart- culture has, you know, put together to mouthing. I was making a real point, be tested, the creation theory cannot gin-birth story came along into the the greatest mistake in any subject or define their culture, to give them a his- but it probably came out sarcastically be proven. text of the Gospels after the genealo- discipline is that it never starts basic tory—is very Jewish, by the way. and I apologize. That no sea horses If there was evidence, we wouldn’t gies were in there for a long time. enough. They always start their sub- Ron Moseley: Reformed. have ever evolved into a stallion is my be having this argument, because it Once you got into the theology of ject from a point. You follow me? Dennis Diehl: Yes, but he lives in point. would be published and all these old Jesus—that Mary was a virgin, that Like, if I go to a school of econom- Israel, and before he ever wrote his There is no missing link that’s ever boys hadn’t convinced me yet. God was the Father, the literal Father, ics, they’re going to start teaching me book he told me he’s not personally been found or it would be not a theory These aren’t goofballs. These are the genetic Father of Jesus—genealo- economics. But they don’t teach me convinced that the figures of David, anymore. Evolutionary Darwinism, Ph.D.s teaching paleontology and ar- gies become moot. They’re cut off at the basics behind it. Abraham or Solomon existed, or if transformism, as it was originally chaeology and different things at reg- that point. What I’m telling you is: As long as they did they were not as presented in called, would not be a theory anymore ular colleges, major universities. And All the people that are related to it’s a theory—and any true cosmolo- the Bible. if it had evidence. all have their degrees from Duke and Jesus in the genealogies are not relat- gist will tell you evolution is still a They may have existed, but the places like that. ed to Jesus if God is Jesus’ literal theory—it’s a problematic mathemati- glory of it all was not quite as glorious Theories to test The point of it is: It takes as much Father. You can’t have genealogies cal probability. as it’s been presented. I have a list of 500 scientists, and faith to believe one as the other, and and the story of the virgin birth. To answer his question about the You know, sometimes things seem we’re not talking about rinky-dink neither can be tested. It’s, like you They’re exclusive. Either one stays or genealogy, you first have to know true because they seem true and so ones. No, every one of these teaches at said, a moot subject. one goes. what a human being is. often cultures will embellish their cul- a major university, and teaches pale- For instance, here’s a problem and I The trouble is that they’re both very Reg Killingley: Dr. Mokarow, we’ll tures far beyond the reality of how it ontology or science in a major region- would agree completely with you. familiar in the documents, and they just— really started. ally accredited university, and said Some doofus has said that there’s no could get rid of neither because it Dennis Diehl: I would like just 10 I suspect that books like [Isaiah], that they cannot accept, all of them way you can prove the world was cre- would be very obvious. seconds— Jeremiah, Ezekiel contain false proph- Ph.D.s, Darwinism. ated 6,000 years ago and that it was So the whole argument of genealo- You’ve made a point about being ecies because there was a battle be- But the point of it is: A theory has to created in six days. gies of Jesus, it doesn’t matter be- careful about saying that you know tween the Levites and the prophets to be tested, and when you say a miracle But the Bible doesn’t say that. It cause, theologically, God is the Father the answers to everything. I don’t feel prove who gets to run the show. is not science there’s more belief in a says yom. Yom [translated “day” in of Jesus—literally. that’s my point, but I would like to ask The prophets lost, the Levites won, miracle in Darwin’s theory than there Genesis] means the amount of time it Now, I had a teenager ask me one you about your book God’s Puzzle and to make a prophet look stupid and is in God’s. took God to do it. time in the church: Mr. Diehl, if God Solved. “Puzzle” and “solved” are as if he was a failed prophet was an art There’s all kinds of things I’ve got Art Mokarow: That’s what yom is the Father of Jesus but He didn’t strong words. In effect you’re saying I form. Some of that is reflected in to believe. I’ve got to believe that means. marry Mary, isn’t that fornication? know what the puzzle is and I’ve failed prophecies in the books of these things evolved and there’s not Ron Moseley: You could say that Ron Moseley: Ask God. solved it. So— See DEBATE DOESN’T, page 31 Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) THE JOURNAL 31 Debate doesn’t name a winner, but each side makes its case Continued from page 30 but it also does in Revelation 10. cause a lot of what he presented I But it’s my experience that the guy cally the Pharisees were the only one Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel, the proph- Ron Moseley: Okay. myself have gone through, those spe- that’s there knows more about it than of the 27 groups that believe what ecy of Tyre being one of them that was cific questions. He came up with dif- the guy that’s here. Christians believe today: heaven, hell, injected to make the prophets look stu- The mystery of God ferent conclusions. Ron came up with Two hundred years from now if the angels, demons, all of this stuff. pid by the Levites. Art Mokarow: Then He tells him different conclusions. And I come up scholars look back upon our society Now, maybe they were hypocrites you are going to prophesy. Remember with different conclusions. they’re going to look and say, they but they believed the basic doctrine. A Revelation written A.D. 68? after he ate it? You are going to proph- I am glad that he believes in a God. could say, with this same thinking, Sadducee didn’t even believe in the Reg Killingley: Let’s have this as esy to kings and nations and so forth. I’m thankful for that. And I think our that George Washington never lived. resurrection. Herodians didn’t believe. the last question, then, from the floor How could this happen since this all idea of God is the same: We don’t Why would they say that? We have We find that these old boys come so that we can get ready to wrap up transpired? Okay? know who He is. records. Yes, but our records contra- against it, but Jesus and Paul were on soon. Yes, sir? As far as I’m concerned, the whole I’ve read the Koran. I went to the dict themselves because he was born the same page. Why does old Paul—? Gary Woodring: My question is a conclusion of all that both of you said trouble. They [Muslims] call it the on Feb. 11 in the 1790s [sic] but, like Because he is sent not to the Jews question of fact about Revelation. I agree with 100 percent, except he book of the people. They do accept the many countries, we have changed our but to the gentiles. The whole New Ron, you say Revelation was written Testament is written about gentiles’ in about 68 A.D.? churches after we leave Jerusalem, so Ron Moseley: It has to be. I have Mr. Mokarow: ‘I don’t regard this as a debate. I regard this as it should be about Paul. 15 points that prove that in a course, And James and Paul in Acts 15 are although I’m not going to take time to a feeding of each other. If Dennis has struck you with something lined up together, and it says the Holy do it now. Spirit and us all agree. So I give you You know what the original Ara- to make you check and study and find on your own what you my five seconds, brother— maic title of Revelation was? “This is believe, then he has blessed you. Or Ron. Or I. Or anyone.’ Reg Killingley: Let me, then, give a revelation of Jesus Christ concern- you, Mr. Diehl, your 10 minutes for a ing the war, the Jewish war, at the time closing summary presentation, what- of Nero.” A.D. 68. [John] was told to stop the conclusion Torah. They accept Moses. They even celebration date because it interferes ever you would like to leave the audi- Gary Woodring: Do you believe, that occurs at the seventh trump. accept Jesus as a prophet. All right? with our school system, our educa- ence with. then, that Revelation had been totally Then it says—and this is a prophe- But the thing that I really have tional system, so we do it on the 22nd, Dennis Diehl: [Mr. Diehl makes fulfilled by the time of 70 A.D.? cy that did not happen then—it says come to conclude in my life: I don’t not the 11th. extensive personal remarks, deleted Ron Moseley: I don’t know about the mystery of God will now be re- want to use human imagination or So they’re saying he doesn’t really here, that are not directly related to the that. I think a lot of it was. Jesus said vealed. That’s in Revelation 10. Okay? interpretation. exist because they’ve got two stories topic of the debate.] flee to the mountains when it hits the Now, the problem is in the name I remember when I was taking of them and they contradict. Ron Moseley: Dennis, we love fan, and they fled to Pella, and you “tribulation.” We think of the tribula- trigonometry in school. No, it was [Editor’s note: George Washington you, buddy. You’re going to be all know all that. tion that happened, and that was the geometry. I remember the teacher was born Feb. 11, 1731, under the Ju- right. I believe God’s got His hand on But nobody knows everything, and great tribulation that happened to the would teach the formula to come to lian calendar, which became defunct you and you’re going to be full of the I certainly don’t say that I know all. temple when they got wiped out. I the answers of the geometric problem, in Britain and the United States during Holy Ghost and back in the pulpit. It’s enough fulfilled that I know some- agree with all that. and I couldn’t understand how she Washington’s lifetime. The Gregorian Dennis Diehl: You’re scaring me. thing’s going on there. Ron Moseley: But we don’t want to came to that logic or conclusion. But I calendar began in 1582, with nations You’re scaring me. convince anybody of it if they don’t came up with the same answers with a over the centuries gradually adopting Ron Moseley: It doesn’t matter. We Tyre then and now believe it, so— different formula. Are you under- it. Under the Gregorian reckoning, love you, and God loves you. It’s go- But I don’t know one prophecy— Art Mokarow: No, no. But I’m say- standing me? Washington was born Feb. 22, 1732. ing to work out for you. Tyre! Tyre! The Tyre of the Bible! ing the three of us agree on this. [Although for most of 1731 the cal- It says it’s going to be destroyed! It However, Isaiah 66 talks about the Maybe iPods are good endars differed by only 11 days, the On the same path said the pillars in this great city like new heaven and new earth, and it I have no confi- Art Mokarow: Den- New York are going to be thrown into explains biblically the meaning of dence in human nis, I had very little con- the sea. tribulation. It’s like unto a woman in education. I believe tact with you way back Alexander the Great came along travail, or childbirth. And it tells you it is good, like we when. The irony of this and made a causeway there and threw there are false labor pains where the know gravity is whole thing when I the big pillars in the sea. They said it son is a nation born in one day. real as long as think of the years, for would be fishing nets on the ground You see, it speaks of the lapse of there’s not a force me it was 40-50 years and nobody would inhabit it ever. time, that the tribulation, really, was stronger, right? I ago: I never thought in And the Tyre today is not where the not the end of it. It was the continuing believe that. Okay? my life I’d be talking to Tyre was. The place is a fishing village pain for this woman to be born for the That’s the good it people that I talked to 20 miles from there, and all those big Messiah to return. Do you follow me? produces. It makes 40-50 years ago. pillars are fallen into the sea. I think When the true, final seventh trumpet iPods and televi- I see we’re all on the it’s a perfect fulfillment. and Christ returns and the son is born, sions and all these same path. Dennis is on whenever that is, that’s where I am. other things. I’m the same path. He’s just Revelation fulfilled in 70? That tribulation of the birth of the not sure they’re telling us Christianity is Reg Killingley: Let’s get back to return of the Messiah doesn’t occur good, but they’re evolutionary. It’s becom- the question, then, of Revelation. Has until that seventh trump. That has not there. ing like Jesus, who’s that all been fulfilled, or was it all ful- happened. But my point is like God, so we can all filled in 70 A.D.? this, and this is the be one, so God can be Dennis Diehl: Dr. Moseley says: Summing up real thing that I try all in all. Right? Who knows? I’ll be more specific. Reg Killingley: We do have to stop to witness: I never liked debates. The answer is yes. And I totally agree there. Let’s go to the final, the closing, Try not to think I don’t regard this as a with his chronology, that it was writ- or summary presentation that each more of yourself debate. I regard this as a ten just months, in the last months, side will give. where you are than feeding of each other. before the fall of the temple to encour- You will have 10 minutes, so you should. Don’t He’s feeding you, and if age the people who were going to go please, Dr. Moseley and Dr. Mokarow, be so sure of your he has struck you with through hell. if you would decide how you want to human intellect and something to make you Over a million of them were split that. If one of you wants to give interpretation. check and study and going to be butchered on the Temple five minutes and the other one five I’m not wishy- find on your own what Mount. minutes, that’s fine, but you do have washy. I am very you believe, then he has I do not believe the book of Rev- only 10 minutes to give your closing. much a believer of blessed you. Or Ron. Or elation is to be read like a newspaper. Mr. Diehl will also have 10 minutes what I believe. You I. Or anyone. It’s a very profitable book, and in for his closing summary presentation, follow me? And Every time some- the Worldwide Church of God and all and you can address anything that you should be too. body asks you why you of its splinters the book of Revelation you’d like to do to leave your audi- And you move on believe what you do and is key to financial success. There’s ence with. Thank you. when God decides you tell them, you proph- a lot of money in Jesus almost re- it’s time for you to esy, don’t you? The lit- turning. There is no money in Jesus One purpose in regard to God grow. tle widow back there, returning. Ron Moseley: Okay. The concept That’s really my she does that. When It was John in 90 A.D.? That’s of Genesis’ account I would complete- purpose in my el- somebody asks her why baloney. ly disagree with, but I understand derly age to my DEBATE LOCATION—The Tyler Sabbath Fellowship, in Whitehouse, just do you go to this church, Ron Moseley: It’s impossible. where he’s coming from. There are dying breath to get south of Tyler, was the site of the debate. Dennis Diehl, a former Worldwide and she tells them why, Dennis Diehl: It’s absolutely im- just so many of these that I would love across to people, Church of God pastor, stands in front of the building before the debate, she prophesies. possible. I think even parts of it start- to get ahold to. But it’s almost— because what the which began about 1:30 p.m. Feb. 21, 2010. Mr. Diehl, who had pastored I won’t give you two ed out as a Jewish book that was Art Mokarow: Okay. Here’s my Bible is really about WCG congregations in five states until 1998, faced off with another former cents for any guy who is turned into a Jewish-Christian book. purpose. I only have one purpose in —really—it is the WCG pastor, Art Mokarow. Also participating, on Mr. Mokarow’s side, was dogmatic in his teaching From my perspective the book of Rev- regard to God and His Son. And that’s book of the people, Bible scholar and theologian Ron Moseley of North Little Rock, Ark. See the to the people he’s re- elation is history. to witness Jesus. That’s it. I want to be which means the article beginning on page 1 of this issue of THE JOURNAL for details. See sponsible for. Art Mokarow: Can I just add one as much like Him, I want to behave story of human be- more photos on pages 1, 10-12, 28 and 30. [Photo by Dixon Cartwright] If you go to church thing? The three of us are in agree- like Him, live my life like Him, all ings, the world, but and they say you have to ment on the date. I believe all those right? And this Ron and I are in 1,000 it discloses your think this way and if things happened. percent agreement. Father. That’s its real purpose. It Julian year began each March 25, you don’t you’re out, run! Okay, let me explain something Ron Moseley: I completely agree reveals JHVH, Elohim, the one God. whereas the Gregorian year begins where I’m a little different and I dis- that Jesus is the key. That’s it. each Jan. 1. Therefore 1731 dates be- What’s the deal? cussed it with you. Art Mokarow: He’s the keys to the tween Jan. 1 and March 25—includ- Reg Killingley: I do again want to Ron Moseley: I know you have. Kingdom, isn’t He? Paul quoted Jesus ing Washington’s birthday—became thank the Tyler Sabbath Fellowship Art Mokarow: Okay. In Revelation Ron Moseley: He’s somebody I Ron Moseley: Regarding the con- 1732 dates.] and our speakers. Diehl, by the way, is 10—all right?—he [John] stops. He ain’t messing with. cept that Paul did not quote Jesus: All spelled D-I-E-H-L if you’re going to wants to write, and John is told to stop through his epistles he’s quoting Him. Basic doctrine Google him, Dennis Diehl. writing and to eat it. Right? Like Nothing against Dennis He’s, No. 1, answering questions. Acts Ron Moseley: And those—the Dennis Diehl: I have to tell people honey in his mouth and then sour in Art Mokarow: That’s right. Any- 9:20, he said he only preached Christ chief priests and the Sadducees—are in South Carolina: No, not like the his stomach. It picks it up at the sev- time I speak, it matters not whether and nothing else. So either he’s con- the cats right there, by the way, who pickle. enth trumpet. you’re at the same place of human fused about what he’s doing or we’re were trying to kill Jesus. The chief Ron Moseley: Diehl pickle? Ron Moseley: You mean Daniel. imagination that I am. Or Dennis! looking back 2,000 years and con- priests and the Sadducees were the Reg Killingley: So a round of ap- Art Mokarow: Well, Daniel does, I have nothing against Dennis, be- fused about what we think he’s doing. same, and a few Pharisees, but basi- plause again for our speakers. 32 THE JOURNAL Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Pastor has an unusual take on tongues Notes and quotes

By Dixon Cartwright least being understood in known lan- Whether it’s known languages or Herbert W. Armstrong’s sible for drifting away from the IG SANDY, Texas—Speaking guages. gibberish, “either way,” he said, “if we daughter dies faith once delivered and for tying in tongues, even though bibli- The second, as the apostle Paul follow verses 18 and 19 it takes the TYLER, Texas—Dorothy “great knots of deception.” Bcal, is not for everybody, and it mentions in 1 Corinthians, is appar- bullet out of the gun no matter how To get back on track write Mr. can sound a lot like gibberish. But ently what Mr. Havir referred to in his you define it . . . Mattson, 89, of Sun City, Ariz., the last living child of WCG Watkins, who will send you congregations should not kick people sermon as gibberish and what other “I said [to the woman] be careful, chapters as he writes them. He’s out because they commentators sometimes call “glos- be careful. I don’t know if it’s from founder Herbert W. Armstrong, died May 10, 2010. up to No. 5. practice it. solalia” or “ecstatic utterance.” God. I don’t know if it’s not from Write [email protected] So advised Glossolalia is thought (especially God. I don’t know.” Mrs. Mattson’s nephew, Mark Armstrong, president of the or P.O. Box 6928, Clearlake, Dave Havir, pas- by Christians who don’t practice it) as He advised her that, “as long as you Intercontinental Church of God, Calif. 95422, U.S.A. tor of the Church not real languages. don’t hurt the church with it, it’s not a based in Tyler, announced Mrs. ABC’s Class of 2010 of God Big Rather, it seems to be vocalizations matter for the church.” Mattson’s death May 15. MILFORD, Ohio—The 11th Sandy, in a ser- that can sound something like lan- “I’m sorry to have to report mon about mira- guage but are not structurally similar Get along class of Ambassador Bible that we lost Aunt Dottie on Center, sponsored by the United cles on the Sab- to actual language. Mr. Havir still runs into the woman Monday of this week after a long bath of May 23, Whatever the case, whatever speak- from time to time on his frequent Church of God an International illness,” Mr. Armstrong said. Association, graduated May 16, 2010. ing in tongues means, Mr. Havir had church visits, “and she comes up and “Mom and I are sure thankful “How can you interesting and surprising things to say whispers to me, she says, ‘I still do it.’ 2010, at the church’s home Dave Havir we were able to visit with them office, reported the UCG’s know if miracles about it. “And I say, ‘Do you still do it pri- just a week and a half ago. Vern United News in an article by are from God?” he asked his audience. He did not advise that anyone speak vately?’ is a dear man, a faithful member, Whitney Smith. in tongues, but he counseled Church “And she goes ‘yes,’ and I go and still needs our prayers.” Multitude of tongues ABC students graduate after a of God members not to criticize or ‘good.’ ” See page 15 of this issue of nine-month term. For a good part of his sermon Mr. shun their brethren who do. Mr. Havir said not worrying about THE JOURNAL for Mrs. Mattson’s Admissions officer Gary Havir expounded on Acts 2. fellow Christians’ private practices obituary, which includes a photo. Private worship Antion said the church has That chapter gives an account of and beliefs—even if they like to speak Nature of God Seminar accepted 19 students so far for the original 1st-century Day of Pen- He noted that, in a congregation he in tongues—is a way for congrega- the Class of 2011. tecost in Jerusalem when the Holy was pastoring more than 20 years ago tions to live in harmony with fellow SEATTLE, Wash.—The ninth For more information about Spirit fell on the 11 apostles like a in another state, a woman, a member church members. annual Nature of God Seminar the church or ABC, write P.O. rushing mighty wind. of that congregation, spoke to him pri- He strives for the same attitude of (until this year known as the One Box 541027, Cincinnati, Ohio Moments later, tolerance, he said, in God Seminar) will take place in 45254, U.S.A. See also ucg.org. Seattle Oct. 23-24, 2010, cloven tongues of many areas: doctrine, announced Association for Feast at Windermere fire were sitting What Mr. Havir referred to in his sermon as health and medicine, Christian Development founder LONDON, England—John upon the heads of politics, current events, and president Ken Westby. each of the 11. gibberish other commentators sometimes prophecy. Jewell of WhatNextMedia.com One of the conference’s nine and Radio4Living.com an- As a conse- call glossolalia or ecstatic utterance. He asked: “If we speakers will be Kermit Zarley, quence of their mi- are people of convic- nounced a Feast of Tabernacles an evangelical Christian and site in Windermere, in the Lake raculous experi- tion with our prayers retired professional golfer who District of England, for 2010. ences, the 11 began preaching to the vately about an aspect of her worship and our obedience, if we’re not going has come out as a unitarian, or The venue will include inex- cosmopolitan multitudes of the Holy of God. to affect the church but we’re rather believer in one God (as opposed pensive lodging within a short City, and the men, women and chil- “She was nervous because she going to edify the church, why does it to a Trinitarian or binitarian). walk of the Marchisi Centre. dren of the multitudes heard the thought by saying what she was about have to be a problem?” For more information about For more information write Christians’ messages in their native to say she was going to get kicked out the conference see godward.org. From God or not? Mr. Jewell at 27 Old Gloucester tongues. of the church,” Mr. Havir said. Or write Mr. Westby at St., London WC1N 3XX, “Whatever could this mean?” the The woman said to Mr. Havir: Mr. Havir also answered his ser- [email protected] or 27013 England. Or write him at people asked in no telling how many “When I pray I speak in tongues.” mon’s main question: How can Chris- Pacific Hwy. S., No. 400, Des [email protected]. Moines, Wash. 98198, U.S.A. languages. So Mr. Havir asked her: “What do tians know whether miracles are from Feast in Kansas City As described in the early passages you mean by that? Do you speak in God or not? See Mr. Zarley on the Web at of Acts, the phenomenon of speaking languages?” The only sure way to know, he con- servetustheevangelical.com. OVERLAND PARK, Kan.— in tongues was not gibberish. She replied that, no, she did not cluded, is to wait for the Kingdom and Sidetracked Christians The Heartland Church of God However, as described in other pas- speak in a language she was familiar then ask God or Jesus about the nature will sponsor a Feast of CLEARLAKE, Calif.—Darrell Tabernacles observance in sages—such as 1 Corinthians 12 and with. Rather, she spoke in tongues in and validity of specific miracles. Watkins, a 62-year-old Church of 14—the later occurrences of tongues- the 1 Corinthians 14 sense, which Mr. “You’ll see in the future,” he said. Kansas City, Mo., announced God member who graduated Rex Jamerson. speaking seemed to be quite another Havir referred to as gibberish. “Wait and see. from Ambassador College, matter. At that point in their conversation, “And until then be people of con- K.C.’s many amenities include Bricket Wood, in 1971, having its world-class zoo and art The later phenomena apparently Mr. Havir said he thought of 1 Co- viction, and love each other.” also attended at Big Sandy, is gallery, the shopping district, the were not recognizable languages and rinthians 14:18-19, where the apostle Contact information writing a Worlds of Fun amusement park sounded like gibberish to the uniniti- Paul said (this is Mr. Havir’s para- book about and “the best barbecue and ated. phrase): “I thank my God I speak with The Church of God Big Sandy meets what he says pizza west of the Mississippi,” tongues more than all of you. But in each Sabbath at 2 p.m. central time Two kinds of tongues are weird Mr. Jamerson said. the church I don’t do it.” during the daylight-saving-time months beliefs. For more information contact Some Bible students have conclud- and 1 p.m. the rest of the year. Although Not a matter for the church Mr. Jamerson at rexajamerson@ ed that Scripture talks about two dis- The CGBS’s building is on the west Mr. Watkins, hotmail.com, or call him at (913) tinct phenomena when it speaks about Mr. Havir said he believes bibli- side of town on Highway 80. Write a retired 262-6009. teacher and tongues. cally sanctioned speaking in tongues P.O. Box 690, Big Sandy, Texas 75755, Season of Our Joy The first, in Acts 2, has apostles “means languages.” But “let’s assume U.S.A. Or phone (903) 636-4600. See real-estate preaching in known languages, or at I’m wrong and it means gibberish.” also churchofgodbigsandy.com. broker who HAWKINS, Texas—Tim and writes under Angie Kelley announced their Darrell Watkins the pen Ami Yisrael Ministry’s plans for name Kruk its annual Feast of Tabernacles Ed Strait, is a Sabbatarian, he observance, which they call has concluded that “Armstrong- Season of Our Joy. ism and its divisions are just It will take place Sept. 22-30, another denomination filled with 2010, at the Windermere Church false doctrines.” Camp on the Lake of the Ozarks The Journal: His book—so new that it’s not in Missouri. completed yet—is False Doc- Season of Our Joy is a trines in Christian Churches. “Hebrew roots” Feast site, Mr. Subscribe or renew! Modern Christianity, Mr. Kelley said. “We study to try and Watkins says, is “the child of understand the 1st-century bifurcated Judaism” and is a Jewish culture, liturgy and ser- To subscribe, simply send a check or money order. Or now you can pay with a credit “careening runaway train gone vices that Yeshua—Jesus—and card. (Fax 1-903-636-9097 or write [email protected].) Be sure to check your mail- completely off its track.” His disciples would have been ing label. If you have only His volume “calls out the lead- familiar with.” ers of every Judeo-Christian Write the Kelleys at one or two or “zero” issues denomination” because leaders, [email protected] or P.O. Box 1633, Mail to: THE JOURNAL, Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A. remaining, we suggest more than followers, are respon- Hawkins, Texas 75765, U.S.A. Subscribe to THE JOURNAL:NEWS OF THE CHURCHES OF GOD and keep up with your family and friends in all the groups! mailing in your renewal now so you don’t miss any Name issues. Prsrt Std Address Contact THE JOURNAL for TheJournal US Postage News of the Churches of God subscriptions and Paid City/state/zip or postal code/country P. O. 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Issue No. 139 (June 17, 2010) Please rush!