2 Readers and writers, starting on pages 2, 3 and 5, remember Garner Ted 3 Janet Treadway traces her 28-year journey to the ’03 Feast of Tabernacles 6 AC students were Temple Mount TheJournal archaeologists in the 1960s and ’70s 8 UCG publication editor Scott Ashley News of the Churches of God speculates on Islam’s place in prophecy Issue No. 80 (Vol. VII, No. 9) JOHN 8:32 Sept. 30, 2003 Church editor concludes Ladies dedicate Allah is not God of Bible meetings to By Dixon Cartwright Islam you find that Allah is actually Linda White he managing editor of publica- an ancient pagan moon god,” said IRMINGHAM, Ala.—Fifty- tions for the United Church of Mr. Ashley. five women from as far TGod says Islam is not a peace- “Thus you find major differences north as Perry, Mich., and ful religion, and its deity, Allah, is not between Allah and the true God of B as far west as Carrollton, Texas, the same supreme being as the God the Bible. came together at a Marriott hotel of the Bible. “I used to believe Islam was a in Birmingham July 25-27 to share Scott Ashley of Arvada, Colo., a peaceful religion, based on what I their Christian experiences and writer, an elder of the UCG and man- had heard, and I also assumed that make new friends. aging editor of The Good News mag- Allah was just another name for the The conference, themed “A azine, said his research of Islam after God of the Bible. But I was wrong.” Woman’s Walk With Christ,” was the events of Sept. 11, 2001, forever Mr. Ashley also ventures to inter- especially for Church of God altered his view of the religion of pret a few biblical prophecies in his ladies in the southeastern part of Muhammad and his followers, the essay in this issue of THE JOURNAL. the United States and was dedicat- 1.2 billion Muslims of the world. For example, what does Daniel 11 ed to the memory of Linda White, In this issue of THE JOURNAL, Mr. portend, specifically pertaining to the a Carrollton resident who orga- Ashley publishes his second of a Second Coming and the last days? nized several similar conferences two-part series on Islam, the fastest- “Is the current European Union” in her lifetime. growing religion on the planet. the anticipated “resurrection of the Opening greetings on Friday In the first part, which ran in THE Roman Empire?” he asks. night, July 25, were brought by JOURNAL of April 30, Mr. Ashley “I don’t think so,” he concludes. Sondra Beam of Tupelo, Miss. asked if Islam had ever been a reli- “For one thing, it appears to have far Mrs. Beam presented a view of gion of peace. too many nations already in it or the speaking schedule and encour- He concluded that it had not. planning to join it shortly.” aged the ladies to enjoy meeting In this issue Mr. Ashley, 48, com- Several Bible prophecies mention ON THE AIR—Garner Ted Armstrong, about 35 in this photo, records new Christian friends and long- pares the Koran, Islam’s holy book, Islamic regions and nations in an end- The World Tomorrow, the WCG’s radio broadcast, c. 1965. Mr. Arm- time friends in Christ. The ladies with the Bible, the Holy Writ of Jews time context, believes Mr. Ashley. strong died Sept. 15, 2003, at age 73. See related articles on this page See COG LADIES, page 14 and Christians. He cites Psalm 83, which he de- and elsewhere in this issue of THE JOURNAL. [Photo from The Envoy, 1965] “The facts speak for themselves,” scribes as speaking of “an end-time Mr. Ashley told THE JOURNAL. “If you alliance of Muslim nations surround- look at virtually any war taking place ing Israel and determined to cut it right now, you’ll find that Islam is a off.” Garner Ted Armstrong’s passing marks end major factor. He also tackles the prophecy of “Yes, the Koran teaches that it’s Isaiah 13-24, which includes a list of best to spread Islam peacefully, but it prophetic “burdens” against various of an era for many in the Churches of God also advocates the use of force and peoples, nations and kingdoms. violence when necessary.” “These 12 chapters seem to weave By Dixon Cartwright The son of WCG founder Herbert current incarnation of the Garner Ted A big part of the problem with in and out between events of Isaiah’s YLER, Texas—Many Church W. Armstrong, Garner Ted, via The Armstrong Evangelistic Association. Islam is Allah himself, Mr. Ashley day and those of the end time and are of God members acknowledged World Tomorrow, was the first contact While an evangelist and chief says. He noted that many people be- immediately followed by several Tthat the passing of Garner Ted thousands of Church of God members administrator for the Tyler churches, lieve that because the big three reli- chapters that appear to describe the Armstrong in September marked the had with the Radio/Worldwide Church he continued broadcasting, writing gions—Christianity, Judaism and immediate aftermath of Christ’s end of an era for COG fellowships of God, based in Pasadena, Calif. and making “personal appearances” Islam—are monotheistic, their be- return.” and ministries with roots in the World- He served as an administrator over to people attracted to his ministry in lievers all worship the same god. For Mr. Ashley’s latest essay, see wide Church of God. the college and its founding church, the United States and other countries. “But when you look at the roots of page 8. Mr. Armstrong died in a Tyler hos- second in rank only to his father. pital Sept. 15 of complications from After a tumultuous separation from Initial statement pneumonia. his father’s church in 1978, the Mr. Armstrong’s son, Mark, re- For two decades, from 1957 to younger Mr. Armstrong was a founder leased a statement shortly after his 1978, he was a powerful presence on of the Church of God International father’s death. He wrote: Publisher tells all about AM radio, preaching a message of near Tyler. “It is with a broken heart that I must “the wonderful world tomorrow” to After a painful separation from the inform all of you that my precious advertising in The Journal millions of listeners over hundreds of CGI two decades later, in 1998 he dad, Garner Ted Armstrong, died radio stations and—beginning in the founded the Intercontinental Church today at 1:20 p.m. I know that all of By Dave Havir NAL becomes ours, while a paid ad- 1960s—to television viewers as well. of God, also based near Tyler, and the See EVANGELIST’S SON, page 12 IG SANDY, Texas—Although vertisement stays under the control of some readers consider some of the writer,” he said. Bthe advertisements in THE Following is an interview with Mr. JOURNAL to be controversial, Dixon Cartwright to help readers understand The Journal invites BSA invites all to its Cartwright, publisher and editor of the role of advertising in this newspa- this newspaper, credits the paper’s per and to answer questions contribu- reports on Feast 2003 2003 conference in Tulsa advertisers with making possible THE tors may have about submitting ad- IG SANDY, Texas—Members of Churches of ULVANE, Kan.—The annual conference of JOURNAL’s continued publication. vertisements to THE JOURNAL. the Bible Sabbath Association, headquartered “The advertisers in THE JOURNAL Question: In the center of THE God and other Sabbatarian fellowships are meeting together at several hundred Feast of Min Fairview, Okla., is scheduled for Tulsa, have helped us to keep a low sub- JOURNAL is a section called CON- B Okla., Oct. 31 through Nov. 2 in the building owned by scription price for our readers,” said NECTIONS. What is CONNECTIONS? Tabernacles sites this year, with many observances to the Tulsa Church of God at 14509 E. Marshall. Mr. Cartwright. “Since our begin- Answer: The full name is CON- begin the evening of Friday, Oct. 10, and continue Everyone is invited to attend the meetings, an- ning, postage rates have risen four NECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER. CON- through Saturday, Oct. 18. nounced Ken Ryland of Mulvane, managing editor of times. Yet we have had only one sub- NECTIONS, as we call it, is the advertis- THE JOURNAL invites Feastgoers to send in short the BSA’s Sabbath Sentinel magazine. scription-price increase during our ing section of THE JOURNAL. We did reports on the brethren and their activities at the Feast The BSA, which traces its roots to several Sabbath- history of almost seven years. not run ads in the paper when we first as soon as possible after the eight days. observing Christians in Oklahoma in 1943, exists to “I firmly believe THE JOURNAL published in February 1997. CONNEC- Mail information to Festival Reports, THE JOURNAL, promote fellowship and cooperation among Sabbath could not have continued much past TIONS began a year later, in February P.O. Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A. Or keepers; to restore respect for the Ten Commandments, its first year without our advertisers.” 1998. E-mail the information to [email protected]. Or you with emphasis on the Fourth; to encourage the repeal of According to Mr. Cartwright, CONNECTIONS began as a separate may fax it to (903) 636-9097. secular laws that enforce the keeping of Sunday (or any some advertisers have learned they section, published by Mark Farmer, a Photographs as prints or E-mail attachments are also other day); and to defeat the adoption of any calendar have a greater opportunity to have Church of God member from Niles, welcomed. that would disrupt the seven-day weekly cycle. their material published as ads rather Mich. In our arrangement with Mark, Because not everyone observes the same calendar to Directors are Daniel Botkin of East Peoria, Ill.; Bryan than as regular articles. he sold and billed for the ads, and we determine the dates of the Feast, please include the Burrell of Fairview (secretary-treasurer); Calvin Burrell Further, the material can be pub- in Big Sandy typeset them, laid them of Houston, Texas; John Conrod of Lakewood, Colo.; beginning date of your observance and specify whether Sidney Davis of Great Lakes, Ill. (president); Darrell lished in its entirety if they are willing out and printed them. it is the first full day (such as Oct. 11) or the evening to pay for space in the paper. Sometime in 1999, I think it was, Estep of Port Orchard, Wash.; Mike Galimore of before the first full day (such as Oct. 10). Spencer, Ind.; June Narber Harrison of Raleigh, N.C.; Mr. Cartwright described the dif- Mark sold CONNECTIONS to THE JOUR- Please include the name of the church or fellowship ference between the editing process NAL’s publishers, who happen to be John Paul Howell of Glen Burnie, Md.; Tom Justus of affiliation, if any, or other sponsor of the site. Springdale, Ark.; Richard Nickels of Gillette, Wyo.; and for an article in THE JOURNAL and the my wife and me. Please limit the write-up to 300 words; all reports editing process for an advertisement Q: Who is involved in managing Kenneth Westby of Federal Way, Wash. may be edited for length. For more information contact Dr. Davis at in CONNECTIONS. CONNECTIONS today? THE JOURNAL hopes you have a great Feast of [email protected] or (781) 944-7941 or Mr. Westby “An article submitted to THE JOUR- See WRITERS HAVE, page 14 Tabernacles 2003! at [email protected] or (253) 852-3269. 2 THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 Letters from our readers

Time to subscribe In remembrance of GTA am one of your old subscribers Once your thoughts were How to subscribe to THE JOURNAL from the days when everything hit mjust sounds of silence Keep up with news of the THE JOURNAL, c/o Lewis McCann, Ithe fan and have been a member of Until your father’s Churches of God and your friends 24 Bradvue Cres., Bradville, Mil- the church since 1971, attending UCG mprayers were an- in all the groups by subscribing to ton Keynes MK13 7AJ, United since it started. The time has come for mswered THE JOURNAL:NEWS OF THE Kingdom; £16 for 12 issues. E- me to subscribe to THE JOURNAL again In a way that has not CHURCHES OF GOD for (in the United mail 100702.2766@compuserve. because we see several problems mhappened since. States) $12 for six issues, $22 for com. cropping up as we did within the When God anointed your 12 issues or $39 for 24 issues. Gift THE JOURNAL, c/o Friends of the WCG. So please start my subscription mlips to speak His Word subscriptions to THE JOURNAL are Sabbath, P.O. Box 305, Hawker, again with the July issue (send me a available. For non-U.S. subscrip- Millions heard His mes- A.C.T. 2614, Australia; $A29.50 for copy, please) and run it for two years. tions mailed from Big Sandy, the msage and heard yours. 12 issues, $A55 for 2 years; for John Dickson price is $14 for six issues, $24 for Some couldn’t tell your pensioners, $A24.50 for 12 issues, Hedley, Texas 12 issues or $43 for 24 issues. For mvoices apart. $A44 for 2 years; checks payable prices for ordering through one of In memoriam him can probably trace their roots in You spoke of prophecy, and obey- to Friends of the Sabbath; E-mail the international distributors, be- As I’m sure you all have heard, the church back to some of his work. ing God’s Laws, [email protected]. Garner Ted Armstrong died yesterday Come to think about it, I “came Of freedom from sin that binds the low, please check with the individ- afternoon [Sept. 15] in Tyler, Texas. into the truth” by listening to Herbert human heart. ual distributor. THE JOURNAL, c/o Bruce Porteous, To subscribe, renew or order a gift 40 Jillian Dr., Ranui Auckland 1008, I first met Garner Ted Armstrong Armstrong on WOAI, San Antonio, Your father passed his mantle to when I was 16 years old. He came to in 1978-79. Why was the WCG able subscription in the United States, New Zealand; $NZ30 for 12 issues. you. Australia, Britain, Canada, South E-mail [email protected]. speak in Greensboro, N.C., a few to run old radio tapes of HWA then? Many forget. Though it was from months after his father had died. At Because Garner Ted Armstrong had Africa, New Zealand or elsewhere, Canadian subscribers: Please you ripped, use the coupon on the last page or the time I had not even begun attend- built the work up to those many radio You stayed closer to his teaching, subscribe through the Big Sandy ing WCG (that was another two years a plain piece of paper and mail to address. Canadian subscriptions stations before the coup. So you could compared to one of these addresses (when away). Most who claim to, and all who’ve in U.S. dollars are $14 for six When I served as news editor of The say he had a hand in that work even ordering from the U.S. address, after being deposed. tripped. monthly issues, $24 for 12 issues Portfolio at Ambassador University in please remit in U.S. funds): or $43 for 24 issues. Please remit Big Sandy, I helped put together a Of course, his work to the degree You were two witnesses; the song it was blessed by God met with suc- THE JOURNAL, P. O. Box 1020, Big in U.S. funds, drawn, if possible, farewell magazine edition on the histo- you sang Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A.; on a U.S. bank or as a postal ry of Ambassador. [AU closed after the cess and was not of GTA’s efforts Was about God’s Kingdom to come. E-mail [email protected]. money order. graduation ceremonies of 1997.] alone. Apostle Peter said: Since the world I felt it only proper to include Mr. While I was one of his biggest began, Larger than life Soon Mr. Tkach made it optional to Armstrong, as a member of Ambassa- critics among our little group at the That same message, all God’s I saw a biography of Frank Lloyd observe either the Saturday or Sunday dor’s founding family, in the planning time of his stint at the Church of prophets drum, Wright in which his grandson de- Sabbath. process. God International, I am saddened by Two witnesses, two olive trees, and scribed what it was like seeing Frank And now the junior Mr. Tkach is Another AU student and I drove the passing of an era. (Though you disagreed about dead in the hospital. calling for all WCG congregations to down to Tyler one morning in the To paraphrase the words of Rich- Church Eras) He spoke of FLW as domineering, observe the Sabbath only on Sunday. spring of 1997 and interviewed Mr. ard Nixon, “you won’t have the Arm- If you represent Revelation 11’s egocentric and totally selfish, an ab- The WCG leadership is now break- Armstrong about the early days of the strongs to kick around anymore.” two Lampstands, solute [rascal] who made his life mis- ing two Commandments: observance campus. This was probably the first William Robin Wansley of the seventh-day Sabbath and the time in many years that “good stand- Father and son have some unfin- erable, but he could somehow not Laurel, Miss. ished business. help but have a soft spot for him. He commitment of a falsehood. ing” AU students or WCG members I wonder what will happen to the had sought him out. WCG after all its property has been As he reminisced about days gone liquidated and golden parachutes are by, darted around his office locating ‘Good-bye for now, Ted. See you later, when it created for WCG leaders. The WCG various mementos from his own col- no longer stands for anything. Mem- lege days and shared fond memories will be an honor to shake your hand again.’ of his dad, I somehow think that it See MORE LETTERS, page 4 might have been a healing experience for him. Before we left, I gave him one of Reflections unbidden Will an angel yet say, “Rise, and said the man who was larger than life Please let THE JOURNAL the new Ambassador Club lapel pins With GTA’s death, the reflections measure suddenly seemed small and insignifi- know when you move that had been produced that year. He come unbidden. One such thought: The Temple of God, and the altar cant in death. He cried. Please notify THE JOURNAL before you truly seemed touched. What will happen to his church And them that worship therein”? I know how he felt. move or change your mailing I saw Mr. Armstrong again in the now? Will a resurrection of two Scott Murphey address. Post offices do not forward spring of 1999, when he spoke in I was saddened to learn of his Strong Arms raise the Midnight Arlington, Texas periodicals-class postage, therefore Fayetteville, N.C. I had to make him Cry? THE JOURNAL must pay the U.S. Postal death; the news made me think back The WCG doesn’t exclude feel welcome in “Tarheel country” by Or will those prophets be two Service for each issue returned from to many of the positives I remember I wish I could have a long leisure- giving him a UNC ball cap (I encour- about his public role from my early other? an invalid American address. Send aged him to wear it on a fishing trip). Geoffrey R. Neilson ly meal with Ms. Anne Hanna [see your old and new addresses to days in the church. “Christian Anti-Semitism Advances The last time I saw Mr. Armstrong His departure reminds us that the Fish Hoek, South Africa Change of Address, P.O. Box 1020, in WCG,” THE JOURNAL, July 31]. Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A., or to was in April 2002. He came to speak senior generation of our era is dying Good-bye, Ted the appropriate address listed in the in Durham, and I had him sign my I’ve read her article over and over and off. Will we learn from their mistakes Just a letter to say how shocked over, and I get the feeling that Ms. box at the top of this page. Or you original 1977 hardback edition of The to be more cautious about proclaim- and saddened to hear of the death of may phone (903) 636-9974 or E-mail Real Jesus (he had signed a paper- Garner Ted Armstrong. Hanna thinks that the Worldwide ing prophetic fulfillments, among so Church of God is anti-Semitic or is [email protected] to report your back edition in 1986). He was my wife’s and my “father address change. many other things? being led in that direction. I had planned to see him again this On another level, his death for me in the faith.” We first heard him on the past spring when he spoke in Cary. At so-called pirate radio stations in As I see it, we are only pro-Chris- reinforces the importance for all tianity, which is for all people, where- the last minute I made the decision to Christians not to look to any individ- spring 1965. We had our first Plain visit friends on the opposite end of the Truth June 1965; I was 18 years old. as Judaism was inclusive for Jews but ual as a “chosen one.” Our fellow I was privileged to meet him and exclusive of everyone else. TheJournal state. Somehow I had the feeling deep human beings can help us, guide us, News of the Churches of God down that I had just walked away from shake his hand at Ambassador Col- I wish Ms. Hanna would read Ro- encourage us and teach us, but none lege in 1969. mans 10-12. She would see that Israel P. O. Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755 my last opportunity to see him. of them should ever take the place of USPS 015-343 There were many things that I did His broadcasts and articles were is still God’s people and it is only by the One who alone is perfect. always great. In spite of any trouble grace that all mankind can be saved. THE JOURNAL:NEWS OF THE CHURCHES OF GOD is pub- not see eye to eye with him on. lished monthly by JMC Associates. Periodical I hope that all religious leaders and along life’s highways (none of us is The only thing the WCG is anti is Nevertheless, he was a connection to organizations can understand that postage paid at Big Sandy, Texas 75755, and exempt; 1 Kings 8:46; 1 John 1:7-10), Satan. Thanks for THE JOURNAL. additional mailing offices. my past, to the faith and spiritual her- their responsibility is to promote the in my mind he was a great man and Jim Perry POSTMASTER:Send change-of-address no- itage that has made me who and what growth and independence of every would not hesitate in saying the I am and all that I hope to be. Via the Internet tices to THE JOURNAL, P.O. Box 1020, Big single member, to teach him to be words of 2 Samuel 1:17-27: “How are Sandy, Texas 75755. God bless you, Garner Ted. May No longer a need able to stand firmly on his own two the mighty fallen.” SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.: $12 for six issues; $22 you rest in peace until the trumpet feet. Good-bye for now, Ted. See you I was interested in reading Bill for 12 issues; $39 for 24 issues. Outside calls. Of course we need others, but not later, when it will be an honor to Stough’s article reporting that the U.S., mailed from Big Sandy: $14 for six John Brian Heath in a dependency model. Spiritual shake your hand again—God willing, leader of the WCG is calling for elim- issues; $24 for 12 issues; $43 for 24 issues. Chapel Hill, N.C. maturity cannot be achieved in any and I’m sure He is! inating the seventh-day Sabbath, Old THE JOURNAL is an independent publication Passing of an era other way. Jim and Barbara Edwards Testament dietary laws and tradition- not affiliated with any church organization. Say what you will about GTA, but Reg Killingley Banbury, England al dates for the yearly autumn festival Printed in U.S.A. © 2003 JMC Associates. [“Pastor General Says ‘Jewish’ Trap- All rights reserved. No part of this publica- most of the most judgmental against Big Sandy, Texas Church history tion may be reproduced or transmitted in The one single action that affected pings Harmful to Christianity, WCG any form or by any means, electronic or everyone's life in the Worldwide Must Drop Sabbath, Feasts,” THE mechanical, including photocopying, record- Church of God, that changed the JOURNAL, July 31]. ing or any other information-storage-and- Policy on letters to the editor course of their history, was Herbert In 1995 most of the local San Fran- retrieval system without the written permis- Armstrong sending his son Garner cisco and Oakland congregation peo- sion of the publisher. Because of limited space, please limit the length of letters. Longer EDITOR AND PUBLISHER: Dixon Cartwright letters are subject to editing for length. All letters are subject to edit- Ted, now deceased, away in 1978. No ple were not in agreement with the one with any connection to the doctrinal changes mandated by Jo- CONTRIBUTORS: David Antion, Scott Ashley, ing for length, clarity and technical style. Worldwide Church of God was unaf- Ewin Barnett, Ian Boyne, Trey Cartwright, seph Tkach Sr. and his leadership Ronald Dart, Gary Fakhoury, Dave Havir, Brian Please include full name, city, state or province and country in let- fected by that irrational and almost group. They sent evangelist Jimmy Knowles, Kathleen McCann, Ellis Stewart, Bill ters sent by regular or electronic mail. THE JOURNAL does not pub- incomprehensible event. Friddle to sway our groups to go Stough, Scarlett Stough, Janet Treadway, Gary Vance along with the WCG’s new doctrines. Darlene Warren, John Warren lish unsigned letters but may occasionally publish letters with Tulsa, Okla. writer’s name and/or city of residence withheld. During his Bible studies Mr. Frid- CIRCULATION: Linda Cartwright, Jamie Cartwright GTA’s passing dle repeatedly swore that the WCG WEB SITE: Trey Cartwright, [email protected] Mail letters and subscription inquiries to THE JOURNAL at P.O. Box I just heard about GTA’s passing. I would never switch from the Satur- THE JOURNAL will not knowingly print inaccu- 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A. Fax (903) 636-9097. E-mail had no idea he was in failing health. day Sabbath to Sunday. Other congre- rate information. THE JOURNAL will run correc- [email protected]. E-mail the editor at [email protected]. tions if notification of errors is received with- Steve Tremble gations were told the same thing by in a reasonable time after publication. Claremore, Okla. WCG evangelists. Sept. 30, 2003 THE JOURNAL 3 Columns and commentary It’s been a long road to my 29th Feast The writer works in the home office of the truck it read “Ambassador thought I would never have. of the United Church of God, Milford, College.” The excitement did not stop there. I Ohio. Mrs. Treadway and her hus- I had heard of the huge tent at Jekyll was awestruck at the tent that we had band, Charles, have four children. Island (like the tent at Big Sandy), and church services in. I had never in my I knew that the life seen such a huge canopy filled By Janet Treadway truck must be with such happy people. AMILTON, Ohio—My first headed to Geor- This was also the one and only time Feast of Tabernacles was in gia for the Feast. I met Herbert W. Armstrong. I was so H1974. I had been attending My heart sank filled with excitement that I just ran up church for only two months when I as I thought of to where he was to shake his hand and was baptized. I was only 19. I had how I could nev- introduce myself. been baptized only a month before the er experience Apparently we were supposed to be Feast. what it would be sitting down, and he reminded me of With just starting a new job, I found like to attend. that. little time to save money for the Feast, I had also giv- My first Feast will always hold such so the church helped pay for my Feast. Janet Treadway en up for the special meaning, because it represent- Artand Nova Explosion I rode down to the site with a family. same reason my ed freedom. God took me from a OURNAL For a young girl who had never trav- mother gave up, because of a great world of terror and placed me among J HE eled outside of Tennessee, this was fear of my father. I prayed about these the most loving and kind people I T certainly an adventure. things a lot, but it seemed I was in a could possibly know. To be able to I will never forget seeing the ocean hopeless situation. view God’s vast creation, the ocean, “. . . Good-bye, friends.” at Jekyll Island, Ga., for the first time. One day God allowed some things was the icing on the cake. Cartoon by I remember, after getting ready for ser- to occur that jolted me out of my state It is profitable to reflect on our hum- vices that first evening, just standing of hopelessness. My father went into ble beginnings. It is good to remember on the balcony and looking out over one of his weekly rages, but this one all that God has done for us. the ocean, where the sun was about to was even worse. He took a loaded gun, Garner Ted Armstrong set. All I could do was stand there and held it to my head and said he was Command to rejoice sob, thanking God over and over again going to kill me. This year I celebrate my 29th Feast! for this huge blessing. I simply froze and prayed silently We have all come a long way since the got a lot of things right You see, it was only a couple of that God would spare my life. time I stood in that backyard watching months earlier that I had been living My father put down the gun. It was the Ambassador College truck go by, Mr. Knowles, former managing nal advances might have been made with my parents—existing in a differ- then that I knew I had to do more than thinking I would never be a part of the editor of The Plain Truth, published within the existing dynastic order. ent world. pray. I had to take action. Feast. by the Worldwide Church of God, Unfortunately, many who sur- I first attended church when I was So, while my mother and father God commands us in Deuteronomy makes his living as a writer. This rounded Herbert Armstrong felt 14 with my mother. But, because of slept, I took one change of clothing 16:15: “Seven days you shall keep a article is part of his “Out of the threatened by my violent father, she could no longer and left, not knowing where I would sacred feast to the LORD your God in Box” series of columns. Ted’s presence withstand the pressure and left the end up. the place which the LORD chooses, and by his role church when I was 16. because the LORD your God will bless By Brian Knowles as heir appar- After we quit attending church, I Big tent you in all your produce and in all the ONROVIA, Calif.—Not ent to the Arm- never forgot about the Feast (even I ended up in another city (which is work of your hands, so that you surely being without sin myself, it strong family though I had never attended). I knew it another story and miracle in itself), rejoice.” Misn’t my place to discuss business, the would be a joyous time. When the and a wonderful family in the church God certainly blessed me in 1974. I other people’s sins and shortcom- WCG. They cov- leaves would turn in the fall, I would took me in. learned that what might seem impossi- ings. But I am willing to talk about eted the power think of the Feast. I was baptized two months later, ble to us is never impossible with God. some of the good things they did. positions—so and now here I was standing on a bal- I am proof of that. Ted Armstrong, like all of us, was Brian Knowles they did what AC 18-wheeler cony, looking at this vast body of Let us go and rejoice before God a flawed but unusually gifted human they had to do One day while standing in the back- water and pouring my heart out to and thank Him for the wonderful being. He sang, he danced, he hunt- to position themselves to inherit yard I saw a huge semi truck on the God with thanksgiving. I thanked things He has done for us. God has ed, he flew, he painted, he preached, them, at Ted’s expense. road, behind our yard, and on the side Him for giving me something I given us a lot to rejoice about. and he wrote. But those weren’t the things that impressed me. Image of God I think one of the most important A particularly poignant moment things he attempted, but failed, to do for me came the night Ted told me, was to achieve accreditation for Am- at Dave Antion’s house, that Broadcaster made a lasting impression bassador College in the mid-’70s. It whenever he prayed he often was the right thing to do but the The writer pastors the Church of television broadcaster in the history scription Tuesday [Sept. 16] when introduced himself to God as a big God Big Sandy and is a regular col- wrong time to do it. Paranoia on the ol’ piece of s——. of the Radio/Worldwide Church of we read that the Rev. Armstrong had right ended up spiking it. umnist for THE JOURNAL. God or any of its offshoots. cashed his checks the day before That, apparently, is how his father I understand that I am claiming Ted, after he had left Worldwide, over in Tyler at the age of 73. also repudiated the doctrine of suc- had made him feel about himself. By Dave Havir that his preaching ability exceeded “Of all the radio preachers who He added that it was hard to get IG SANDY, Texas—Garner the effectiveness of his father. That’s cessive “church eras” in an excellent inhabited the airwaves in what we article written while he was head of the image of his dad out of his head Ted Armstrong died unexpect- what I believe. remember as the Golden Age of Au- when he prayed to God the Father. edly Monday, Sept. 15. Most Throughout the years Ted had a the Church of God International, B dio Sanctifying, Garner Ted Arm- which he founded. (The neo-WCG He somehow had to filter the image people who knew him could probably good track record of drawing the strong was probably the most inter- under the Tkachian dynasty later of God the Father through that in- acknowledge the positive ways that interest of new people to the WCG. esting. timidating picture. Ted influenced their lives. repudiated it as well—to its credit.) When he preached in the Church of “He was not a healer, like Oral At that moment the Holy Spirit (I I was not all that well acquainted God International from 1978 to Helping joy with Garner Ted. Understand that at Roberts, or a hollerer, like Jimmy believe) animated a certain scripture 1997, he attracted many new people Swaggart, or a goofy carnival barker, Ted also made advances in under- to my mind and I said to Ted, “Re- my present age of 50 I am a generation during that time. From 1998 to the behind him. I was not a childhood like Jim Bakker. standing the true nature of church member Romans 8:1?” present he attracted new people to “Garner Ted Armstrong was a government, after his father jetti- He didn’t. So I gently reminded friend of his like Wayne Cole. I was not the Intercontinental Church of God. a close employee for years like Ron spellbinder, and the tools of his trade soned him from the Worldwide him of what it said: “Therefore, To show the reach that Ted had in were a silky baritone voice and the Church of God. there is no condemnation for those Dart, Robert Kuhn, Les McCullough, society, I’ll quote a few paragraphs Ron Kelly or Tom Justus. ability to string sentences together in One statement that Ted often who are in Christ Jesus, because from an editorial in the Sept. 18 edi- a beautiful and seductive rhythm that made for which I am grateful was, through Christ Jesus the law of the Solicited prayers tion of The Denton (Texas) Record- masked the fact that most of them “Ministers are not supposed to be Spirit of life set me free from the law Chronicle. Even though I was not a close made no sense whatsoever . . . [In a spiritual policemen, but helpers of of sin and death.” The newspaper editorial was not your joy.” friend of GTA, let me tell you about resurrection this man will realize “Hmm,” he said, “I hadn’t thought from a devoted follower of his Truer words were never spoken. an extremely positive gesture that Ted that Ted made more sense than he of that. That’s good!” church or from an ardent fan. The best sermon I ever heard him made for my family on two separate realized.] He visibly perked up. These are words of give was titled “Let Your Con- occasions. “Other preachers rant- Ted Armstrong now sleeps the a person in the news- science Always Be Tender.” I’ve Without going into detail, I’ll men- ed, sang, chanted and sleep of death, along with a growing tion that I had negative experiences in paper business who tried to live by it ever since. hissed. GTA . . . spoke number of his peers. my departure from the Worldwide had criticisms of Ted like a slightly smart- Had Ted and his father been Church of God in 1995 and from the but appreciated as- allowed to have a “normal” father- Someday, I believe, he will arise alecky history professor to the realization that God the Father United Church of God in 1998. The pects of Ted’s min- trying to get his point son relationship, things might be dif- reason I make a general reference to istry and was willing ferent today. The split might never is infinitely more merciful than any across to a particularly have happened, and needed doctri- both of these experiences is that Ted to cut him some slack. slow class of freshmen . . . of us could have ever imagined. Armstrong did something nice for my “There was never any mean- Silky baritone family in both of those instances. ness to his public persona, and we During the time of both occasions, Following are the excerpts, writ- never recalled him asking his listen- Garner Ted in sermons asked the con- ten by opinion editor Mike Trimble. ers for a red cent. gregation where he was ministering to “A journalist of our acquaintance When you’re out and about on the Web, stop in at pray for me and for my family. Mem- “Perhaps it was for that reason, or bers of those congregations told me once defined the quintessential red- perhaps it was just because he was so about it, and they gave me tapes of the neck experience as driving three entertaining, but we found ourselves sermons so that I could hear it. sheets to the wind down a string- hoping Tuesday that the Final Judge TheJournal I appreciated his thoughtfulness straight stretch of two-lane blacktop would cut Garner Ted Armstrong a News of the Churches of God during those stressful times. at 2 a.m. with mayflies committing little slack. mass suicide on your windshield and “The reverend had been our only We’re right where you’d expect us to be, at Reached new people Garner Ted Armstrong preaching on companion on a few of those noctur- www.thejournal.org It is my opinion that Garner Ted your radio. nal road trips, and he was always Armstrong was the best radio and “We were reminded of that de- good company.” 4 THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 More letters from our readers

Continued from page 2 much less ruling that one should keep muddied, and I was just emerging unless it begins in our hearts. music and TV programs or movies, or bers who no longer believe in the earli- his hands under his or her legs to pre- from a decade of spiritual stagnation. We all need the Morning Star of unruly and rebellious attitudes from er traditional WCG doctrine are better vent the horrible semisin of clapping. It had been a difficult time for me the Anointed One rising up within us. our children or their friends. off to attend neighborhood mainstream [See “Unwelcome Interference?,” THE in terms of coming to grips with these Only then will our enlarged buildings In other words, we are to be wise churches. They don’t need the WCG. JOURNAL, Aug. 31, page 4.] and other issues involving the proper be bursting at the seams. However, and discern between good and evil. Earl Cayton Don’t you guys have something bet- understanding of the role of we do need to speak in plain English, We are not just housewives. We are San Francisco, Calif. ter to do already? I cannot believe good works in our lives (de- in a language that people can under- stand, using words that tell a story, the the queens of our homes. God has that you would want to make this termining our reward, not our called us for this job. So let no man or 70th anniversary a policy issue when so many salvation), and the knowl- greatest story ever. Several Sabbaths ago the Eugene, Graeme White woman despise you for following the other things call for more edge that Jesus lives His New Zealand Scriptures and your calling. Ore., WCG commemorated the 70th scrutiny and study. life in Christians. anniversary of this church with the Also, why would you He concurred with my Mercy beaucoup We are not just serving our hus- stated goal that the congregation would want to squelch the observation that, even It’s minister-bashing time! bands and children but also our King move to Sunday as soon as possible. spirits of your con- though these concepts were Is there anything more sublime and Lord within the sacred walls of Makes one wonder. Anyone know gregants who feel found in WCG expression Than to hate a minister? our homes. We are handmaidens of the exact date in 1933 when the moved to respond in and literature, they were Malign a minister? the Most High. We are in charge of the church began? It’d be ironic if Eugene a physical manner to seldom understood or Than “elder” resentment, big time? future generation of priests and kings. were to meet on the Sabbath for exact- the inspiration of an uplifting correctly applied. Many younger women and girls ly 70 years and then go to Sunday. Oh, yeah, we’re to love our brother, or sobering or motivational For instance, I had spo- Our father, our neighbor, our mother; haven’t had proper upbringing; they Noel Rude piece of music? ken to another WCG minister haven’t been taught God’s ways, even Via the Internet They’re not perfect, okay? I know of no biblical injunction op- of the concept that Jesus in us is a Who is, anyway? within the Churches of God. The older Comprehend the incomprehensible posing the response of a congregation vital key to overcoming. He actually But love elders? Let’s not even bother. generation should train and help the In response to Maximo Sarmien- to something that is inspiring. Didn’t said that any such notion could ex- next generation in its walk. The younger to’s letter in the July JOURNAL [“Mys- the OT congregations respond with pose a person to demon possession! So the ministers didn’t move fast? women desperately need godly exam- teriously, Three Are One,” page 10], “amen” from time to time? Does not Richard presented many helpful How long will we dwell on the past? ples, women who fear the Lord, love Maximo says “God” is incomprehen- the NT say “Rejoice, I say, rejoice”? sermons, but I will always remember Get this understood: their husbands and are submissive. Mario, Aaron, Paul and my other They did what they could sible to the “human finite mind.” his standout sermon of Jan. 22, 1983, Many young women would love to Nevertheless, he goes on to describe UCG friends: Come on, for crying out In the blitz that has left us aghast. loud. I hope that the members of the to the Imperial PM congregation in have a God-fearing and wise mentor, and explain “God.” Pasadena. He outlined many of these Some of us were not quick to depart Is Maximo superhuman? Is Maxi- UCG ignore this silly edict and let the but they don’t know where to turn. A Spirit move them to show their appre- points including the “missing dimen- When the devil was tossing his darts. lot of older women are not doing their mo’s mind not human and infinite? If sion” in the lives of many: Jesus Some of us have delayed, the Eternal is incomprehensible to the ciation of inspirational music. jobs. They are too busy with their I will applaud all who do so. Christ living His life in us. What a Hurt, bewildered, dismayed, careers outside the home. human mind, then how can any Not yet ready for any fresh start. human explain Him? Keith Speaks radical idea! But one way or another we are Sounds like dogma of the regimes Hammond Ind. Though Richard was somewhat Who is patient with you and with I? teaching them, whether it be in a tied to the notion that the WCG was that say, “You little ones are too sim- Tribute to Richard Rice Whose mercy is Higher than High? godly way or the way of this world. pleminded to comprehend God, so the one organization through which Do you really believe Like it or not, much of the break- I remember Richard Rice as friend- God was working, he was a minister Elders will not receive we’ll explain Him to you.” ly, helpful, nonjudgmental and will- down in morals, reverence and respect You can’t have it both ways, Max- ahead of his time. He was not afraid Of that mercy? If so, tell me why. is traceable to the absence of godly ing to listen [see “Richard Rice Dies,” to express his views even though they imo. Either we “finite humans” can THE JOURNAL, mothers who are keepers at home. July 31]. sometimes put him at odds with his God allowed the brethren to see comprehend Him or we can’t. The During the ’70s and ’80s he was a The falling-away prophecy fellow ministers. Your family is your career. We need Eternal’s Son said that in seeing Him standout among the WCG ministry in Come to pass from above. women encouraging other women to His disciples had seen the Father. If terms of his attitude and views. He Robert Macdonald But our job is to love, Pasadena, Calif. be faithful daughters of God. other “finite human” minds can’t com- felt that Jesus Christ had been relegat- Yes, love, too, for the flawed Stand up in the gap and fulfill your prehend “God,” then neither can yours. ed to a minor role, being pushed off Don’t call me a Christian ministry! calling. Let the Bible be your guide in If indeed “God” is incomprehensible to into the periphery of the thoughts of To be called Christians in today’s Lucille Boone this matter. Your family depends on humans, then what in the world is He all too many, not occupying the cen- world places us with a group of peo- Vicksburg, Miss. doing communicating with us? you, and so does God! Name withheld Elizabeth Johnson Valley Lakes, Ill. ‘So the ministers didn’t move fast? How long will St. Petersburg, Fla. Site seen Throw the feds out There is a new unitarian Web site. we dwell on the past? Get this understood: The vast degree of federal amalga- Looks good to me. It is www. They did what they could.’ mation since the Constitution was biblicalunitarian.com. conceived and adopted by the United F. Paul Haney States has undermined individual Watertown, Conn. tral role in our lives. ple that number about 1.7 billion, all Provocatively dressed teens freedom and self-determination with He noted that we seldom brought of whom follow the teachings of It was with interest and sadness the mediocrity of secular humanism. The loss of Gov. O’Bannon up His name in our daily conversa- that I read the article about the “Titus Christ. Like the founding fathers of our Today is the last day that flags will tions, and when we did it was often in But what does this word Christ, for 2 Camp” in the June 30 issue of THE nation, I am against public funding to fly half-mast in our state of Indiana in a casual, offhand, arm’s-length man- this is where the word Christian JOURNAL. remembrance of Gov. Frank O’Ban- ner as if He had little to do with our comes from, mean? First, a big thank-you to the people promote any specific denomination or non. He died Saturday, Sept. 13. everyday lives and thought processes. Christ or Messiah means “anoint- who recognized the need and gave of that persecutes anyone’s reasonable While I have not personally known By contrast, another WCG minister ed,” so the early Christians were their time and talents. free exercise of religion. However, we many public officials, I will have to say expressed something to this effect: “It called the “anointed ones.” It was saddening to read a quote have a Judeo-Christian national her- that Gov. O’Bannon, along with his goes without saying that our sins are This word Christian, which we from camp organizer Cindy McLen- itage upon which our laws and culture wife, Judy, has exemplified servant forgiven through Christ. We all un- have used as a noun, when spoken in don: “Many women are so busy they are founded. The Ten Command- leadership in a most effective and derstand that, so we don’t need to plain English becomes an adjective, do not have the time to pass these skills ments are common to that foundation. down-to-earth way. They genuinely keep talking about Jesus in sermons describing something that has hap- [of homemaking and proper attire] on If the people of the sovereign state cared for people and seriously took and writing about Him. We just need pened in our lives, for when we were to their daughters,” and “There is a big of Alabama recognize the societal their public role to help, build and serve converted we received it and we were void in schools for teaching this.” bedrock God provided with the Ten their constituents. In life as well as in sealed with the Holy Spirit from our Since when have parents in God’s Commandments and want to empha- death they showed care and service. heavenly Father. church transferred this responsibility I met Judy O’Bannon for the first size this fact publicly, I say keep the This experience must surely be the to the schools? feds out! time in 1999. She greatly helped sup- greatest thing that has ever happened in To the fathers: Are you, also, so port our not-yet-started charity Life- busy that you do not notice how your Hey, they already outlawed the our lives. Texas tradition of praying for good Nets and helped give it life and sup- In Revelation 2-3 we find tremen- daughters are dressing and not teach- port from many others. [See “Cher- dous promises for those who have ing them how dressing provocatively sportsmanship, etc., at the start of nobyl-Plant Blast in 1986 Led to Life- been anointed with the Holy Spirit. puts wrong ideas and impressions in high-school football games! Nets in 1999; Ministry Ships Aid for The seventh or final promise is that the heads of males? Wake up, folks! We are being Pennies on Dollar,” THE JOURNAL, we will sit on the throne with the Last but not least, are not the quickly assimilated! June 30, 2002.] Anointed One as He sits on His “church corporations” teaching mod- Rick Stanczak I traveled with her to Russia in Father’s throne in the heavenly glories. esty, etc., anymore? (“Why haven’t Round Rock, Texas October 1999. Afterwards, in 2001, we 2 Corinthians 13:5-6: “Test your- we been told that”? one of the teenage helped with a Moldovan orphan, Na- Titus 2 Camp participants asked.) Just what do you mean God selves and find out if you are really isn’t a Republican? tasha Vasilitsa, who came to Indian- true to your faith. If you pass the test, Are the church organizations so apolis for two major surgeries for con- you will discover that the Anointed busy “doing the work” that they are There is a remarkable open letter genital birth defects, a project spon- One is living in you. But if the neglecting the church family? (1 written to President Bush and mem- QUARTET—Richard Rice sings Timothy 5:8). sored and endorsed personally by the with a quartet at a dance at AC in Anointed One isn’t living in you, you bers of Congress by Norman Edwards O’Bannons. Natasha was a remarkable Pasadena in 1958. From left: Gar- have failed.” Sadly, it seems the Father’s most pre- in Servants’ News, January-February child; you can see her story at http:// ner Ted Armstrong, Mr. Rice, Rich- Four years ago our son Paul cious resource, future spirit members of 2003 [read the letter at www. www.lifenets.org/natasha. ard Hopkins and Ron Chandler. brought me a plate of ice cream for His family, our very own physical chil- servantsnews.com/docs/bushletter. dren, are being thrown to society. The death of the governor before [Photo by Robert Macdonald] dessert. Two hours later we found him html or subscribe to Servants’ News his time is a great loss to us who grew dead in his room. G. Neely to love and respect him and his wife. Gulf Breeze, Fla. by writing P.O. Box 107, Perry, Mich. to emphasize more-useful and pro- I went to go to his body when I 48872, U.S.A.]. His example will live and should ductive matters.” heard this loud, powerful voice say: Not just housewives serve us as a model for how to care I am not a fan of Mr. Edwards, or Other ministers had voiced similar “Don’t touch him. I have taken him.” As mothers and wives in the Body anyone else, but truth is what matters. for the needs of people in this life. sentiments, but not all. One minister I froze and feared to go any nearer of Christ, we have been called by God The truth is that too many church Victor Kubik rightly observed that “to outward ap- to our son. to be keepers at home (Titus 2:3-5). Indianapolis, Ind. pearance you would never know we Paul had received the baptism of Our calling is extraordinary and a folks, especially in the South, think For crying out loud are Christians.” It wasn’t Richard, but the Holy Spirit in Motueka [a place in wonderfully divine privilege. that God is an American who has an For once I agree with pettifoggering he probably had such thoughts. New Zealand], but what wonderful We not only care for the needs of American flag on His throne. ex-coworker Reg “Vinnie” Killingley He was especially helpful to me words to hear from the Anointed One. our family and cultivate domestic tran- These folks are more Republican with respect to his comments about the during the times we talked in the late When that trumpet sounds and the quillity, but we keep watch over evil conservative than they are Christian. UCG bigshots even considering the ’70s and early ’80s. The waters of saints are raised into the clouds, will influences that can enter into the home They are not outraged by our hy- policy of clapping for special music, biblical truth had been thoroughly we all be there? Revival cannot begin such as ungodly reading material, See MORE LETTERS, page 13 Sept. 30, 2003 THE JOURNAL 5

NEW GRAD—Gar- ner Ted Armstrong Columns and commentary presents a diploma to graduating senior Linda Isom Cart- wright in com- CGI Jamaica remembers church founder mencement cere- monies at Ambas- The writer is pastor of the Tyler, I would like to give my brief reflec- Armstrong. sador College, Big Texas–based Church of God Inter- tions on the life of my organization’s The first thing that struck me about Sandy, in 1971. See national in the island nation of founding presi- his preaching—and the profound im- remembrances of Jamaica. dent, Garner Ted pression and impact never left me— Armstrong. was how practical and relevant he Mr. Armstrong be- By Ian Boyne Unlike the made Christianity. ginning on this page INGSTON, Jamaica—Here hundreds, some Had I not heard the voice of GTA, and page 3. See are just a few words to give say thousands, it is unlikely that I, who was fatherless also the lead article Kyou a perspective from the who have re- at 10 and whose mother moved to the beginning on page 1 third world in the days immediately ported that they United States when I was 15, would of this issue. [Photo after the death of Garner Ted Arm- have been dam- have achieved what I have through by Sam Duncan] strong. aged by the God’s gracious help. As the pastor of the largest congre- Ian Boyne “Armstrong Garner Ted Armstrong has always gation of the Church of God Inter- experience,” my been very loved in Jamaica in and out- national (CGI) in the Caribbean and story is the exact opposite. side the church. He appealed to many An outside writer looks one of the the largest ex–Worldwide I was an underachiever in high high-school and university students Church of God congregations in the school before hearing the resonant, when his program was carried every entire world (with attendance of 220), captivating voice of Garner Ted See GTA TALKED, page 10 at Garner Ted’s legacy Mr. Barrett is an author who decided to write my thesis on the lives in Britain whose book The schisms of the Worldwide Church New Believers (Cassell, 2001) fea- of God, I usually try not to give my tures a long chapter on the World- personal opinions about anything ‘The Voice’ was my greatest influence wide Church of God. Mr. Barrett is in the Worldwide “family” of James Tabor is professor of ancient Ted Armstrong that I was turned to- I am also sorry that he was not researching churches. Judaism and early Christianity at the ward a biblical understanding of the able to find himself more fully, be- his Ph.D. on My academic work has to be University of North Carolina at God of Israel. cause I think he could have done the schisms in objective. It’s not my role as a Charlotte. much more. I am sure he felt that too the Churches sociologist, for example, to make The most influence the last few years. of God since any comparative judgment on the By James Tabor I suppose, given that measure, he the death of truth of the spiritual beliefs of the HARLOTTE, N.C.—I am could be said to be the most influential Personal correspondence Herbert W. different churches. Neither would deeply saddened to hear of Ted person in my life. I will miss him, though I did not Armstrong. it be right for me to express any CArmstrong’s death. My sympa- Through that initial experience I know him as closely as many others. I Because of preferences for or against individ- thies go out to have made lifelong and loyal friends spent some time with him face to face, his unusual po- ual people or offshoot churches. his family and from whom I could be separated only but most treasured to me are some per- sition as an Why, then, did I allow myself to all who knew by death. sonal letters he wrote me, long letters, outside schol- David Barrett become involved in a recent some- him well and My academic and scholarly career so they were not formalities, a decade ar who is times-acrimonious online discus- loved him. was set on a course that contributed or so after my Ph.D. experience at knowledgeable about the WCG sion about Garner Ted Armstrong The Scrip- toward the recapture of the essential Chicago when I was searching so des- and its offshoots, THE JOURNAL on the Missing Dimension Web tures admonish, Hebraic roots of the early messianic perately for a place of faith again invited Mr. Barrett to comment on site? “Remember your movement led by Yeshua the Naza- within the biblical tradition. the churches in light of the death of Missing Dimension (www. Creators [Hebrew rene, John the Baptizer and James the He was very gracious and under- Garner Ted Armstrong. missingdimension.com) is a site is plural] in the brother. standing and incredibly encouraging. run by a former WCG member, days of your James Tabor I doubt I would have ever seen the I realize that many had other expe- By David V. Barrett Gavin Rumney, who is critical of youth,” which I Hebraic way of looking at things riences and feel profoundly negative ONDON, England—Apart both the current WCG and the off- take to mean parents, mentors and except through that work. And here I things about HWA, GTA and the from one previous piece in shoot churches. In some ways it is others who have contributed to our am, 40 years later, still wrestling with whole WCG experience. LTHE JOURNAL (Sept. 25, the online successor to the late lives in positive ways. the great issues of God, Torah and My contacts, memories and deal- 1997), which was actually before I See WHAT WOULD HAVE, page 11 I can honestly say, though I know it Israel and the plans of our Creator in ings were always totally positive. I was Herbert Armstrong in the begin- terms of the Kingdom of God “on know there are others who can say the ning, that beginning from age 17 or so, earth” as it is in heaven. same. when I used to listen to him on the I am profoundly sad to lose this tal- This is not to negate another’s radio as a senior in high school six ented and incredible VOICE. There is no experience but simply to record a dif- GTA’s was last media success days a week, it was through Garner one out there who can fill these shoes. ferent one. of the Churches of God The writer is founder of Barnabas ed with a closed coffin, after services Ministries and the Biblestudy.org Web it was opened for viewing Mr. Arm- Evangelist planted the seeds of truth site and a former member of the strong one last time. The writer is an elder in the on the Ambassador College campus as if he were ad-libbing. You could Worldwide Church of God and As I slowly walked past the casket United Church of God an Interna- in Pasadena, Calif. So I frequently not tell the difference. Church of God International. Mr. and glanced at the face viewed by tional Association who began at- climbed the stairs up to the “pent- But these things are not what I Ruth has studied more than 300 millions around the world, one tending Worldwide Church of God house” to watch will most remember Ted for. Church of God–related groups and thought permeated my consciousness: services in 1956. him making a Garner Ted was instrumental in visited 100 of their ministries or Sab- There is nothing dynamic about live, and simul- 1965 in my being transferred from bath services. He is self-employed as death. By Ellis W. Stewart taneously re- Pasadena to the Big Sandy campus an Internet and computer consultant. In spite of Hollywood’s sometimes IG SANDY, Texas—I first corded, radio to run the new Texas press opera- romanticized view of death, it is not a met Garner Ted Armstrong program. tion. While laying out, shooting, By Alan Ruth friend or a welcomed occurrence but Bin August of 1956. Ted was I was im- stripping and printing the fruits of ARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. a cold, brutal thief that steals the sum just beginning to do some of the pressed with his writings, I was amazed at Mr. —Like many, I was surprised of a person’s existence right out from World Tomorrow radio broadcasts, his Hollywood Armstrong’s ability to compose, to Fand saddened by the death of under him. which until then had mostly fea- looks, his ani- speed-read and to analyze. Garner Ted Armstrong on Sept. 15. Death is mankind’s collective ene- Upon hearing my, the final adversary that God tured his father, Herbert Armstrong. Ellis Stewart mated presen- As time went by, I saw this mul- My family and I lived across the tation, his live- titalented young man sing, play the news of his Himself will kill (Revelation 20:14, street from the old library building, ly voice and personality. guitar and entertain guests at sing- untimely pass- 21:4). which then housed the radio studio, He could read and make it sound See WE TALKED ABOUT, page 13 ing, I quickly The day after the funeral, as I pon- made plans to dered the significance of GTA’s attend his funer- departure, it occurred to me that there al in Gladewa- was another death that took place. ter, Texas. This other death was subtle and quiet. I’ve fond memories of a childhood friend He affected The press did not report it. The major The writer, a former member of er, Dick, and several of my cousins aircraft carrier USS Antietam and my life, like the TV networks were oblivious to it. lives of count- And, I am quite sure, most Church of the Church of God Seventh Day and and I played hooky from church and was leaving from San Francisco for Alan Ruth Worldwide Church of God, attends spent time together at Dever School, Korea (during the Korean conflict). less others, so it God brethren are unaware that this Sabbath services with the Church of Conner School, Scravel Hill School Dick Armstrong and I, who were seemed only fitting to pay last respects other death happened. God Big Sandy and other congrega- and other places inseparable buddies, decided to go to to one of the most prominent Church Yet, as the realization of this other tions. where Ted’s fa- San Francisco and spend a few days of God leaders of the last 50 years. death begins to seep into the minds of ther preached in with Ted before his shipping out. Although the funeral was conduct- See OF COGs, page 10 By C. Wayne Cole the 1930s and Though Ted was on duty during the YLER, Texas—Garner Ted 1940s. days, we spent our evenings together Armstrong and I were friends That is, we and had a great time. since childhood. My family played hooky When you’re out and about on the Web, stop in at T Main radio speaker first met Herbert W. Armstrong and until one or his family in 1937. Ted, the youngest more of our par- Some years later, after Ted was of the four Armstrong children, and I ents came out discharged from the Navy and were both 7 years old at that time. and dragged us enrolled in Ambassador College, he TheJournal Ted liked to say when we saw each Wayne Cole by the ear into rose rapidly in the work of the News of the Churches of God other in recent years, “Wayne and I as church. church. kids chucked rocks at the same Later in life, when I first attended Within a couple of years he was We’re right where you’d expect us to be, at woodpiles behind the schoolhouses Ambassador College in 1950, Ted doing radio programs, first substitut- www.thejournal.org where my dad was preaching.” was in the U.S. Navy. In the spring of ing occasionally for his father and This was true. Ted, his older broth- 1951 he was stationed on board the See NOT MANY KNOW, page 13 6 THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 AC students suddenly found themselves digging in Jerusalem By John Warren occupied the entire Sinai peninsula, the everal hundred people—mostly Gaza Strip, the Golan Heights, the West Ambassador College students— Bank and Jerusalem’s Old City. Swere part of a continuing archae- A new plan ological excavation known informally as the “big dig” in Jerusalem from the Mr. Hunting, an evangelist-ranked late 1960s through the early ’70s. WCG minister at the time, remembers In this issue THE JOURNAL talks the change in plans. with people who were part of the big “On the day the Six Day War com- dig during those years. menced, the trip had to be aborted,” he told THE JOURNAL. “Mr. Armstrong had Ray Dick, now 80, of Hawkins, made some taped broadcasts which I Texas, provided many details to this was given to take to Jerusalem, hoping writer of his personal involvement with to have them aired. The others went the archaeological excavation spon- back to Bricket Wood. sored by the Worldwide Church of God. “Radio Jerusalem was taken over by Mr. Dick served from 1967 to 1970 the Israelis. Radio Amman in Jordan as manager of the church’s office near began the broadcast on a much-less- the Holy City and was closely involved powerful station with weak reception in with the startup of the church’s and col- Israel.” lege’s participation in the dig. Mr. Dick stayed in Bricket Wood Although anyone who was a WCG until he moved to the office in Cypress, member during that era was well aware THE DIG’S FIRST YEAR—The Ambassador College students partici- which Ray and Norma Dick manned that there was a dig sponsored in part by pating in the first year of the dig, in 1969, are as follows (as identified for until their move to the office in Israel in the church, many of the details chroni- THE JOURNAL by 1969 digger Don Bjoraker): Front row, sitting, from left: the town of Beit Hanina between Jeru- cled in this article may not be so well ZoeAnn Ghourdjian, Robin Sutcliffe, Pat Hill, Kathy Crocker, Janet For- salem and Ramallah. known. ney, Sharon Phillips, Donna Shonyo, Kathy Kruger, Dick Paige, Denys In 1968 Herbert W. Armstrong, chan- Fell, Danny Martin, Russell Johnson, Jean Bristow, Cheryl Tupper, Karyl Why are we here? cellor of Ambassador College and pas- Coates. Second row: Melva Mickelson, Connie Johnson, Terry Johnson, Mr. Dick picks up the story: tor general of the WCG, announced that Mark Kaplan, Deanna Langbraaten, Pat Boehnhardt, Lloyd Briggie, “Mr. Armstrong was sure the United the church had arranged with Hebrew Richard Davey, Helmut Levsen, Sandy Gent, Virginia Howell, Faye Nations would have the Israeli-Arab sit- University and Professor Benjamin Bronkar, Jim Wisman, Carol Burman, Alan Corrie, Owen Willis, Sam uation settled in a few months. Mean- Mazar to begin participation on an Kneller, Freddy Martin. Third row: Unidentified Israeli, Jim McNiese, Mike while, we should live in Cyprus, and as archaeological excavation at the Temple Ghourdjian, Chris Patton, Ruth Van Buren, Darwin Nelson, Steve Fallaw, soon as Radio Jerusalem was back Mount in the Jerusalem. Tom Smith, Richard Elfers, Joe Dobson, Dave Summerfield, Dave Fraser, under Jordan’s control we should re- Mr. Armstrong told coworkers in a EARLY DIGGERS—Ray Dick (left) and Benjamin Mazar are on Sheila Tremlett, Don Bjoraker, Ken Smylie. Not shown is digger Dave sume our original plans. letter dated Dec. 10, 1968: Gunn. [Photo courtesy Don Bjoraker] “The Jewells stayed in Bricket “Today I can announce this big news duty at the dig site c. 1968. [Photo courtesy Ray Dick] Wood, the Jerusalem office was unoccu- at last. were told I were being transferred to a rationale for opening an office in pied, and we left for our new assign- “I have just returned from my second “He stated that a five-year contract foreign office.” Jerusalem. ment in Nicosia.” visit to Jerusalem in approximately four had been signed with Jordan’s King Since the Docken family had been “We had opened the office as a result The Dicks arrived in Nicosia the weeks. Four weeks ago all preliminary Hussein to air The World Tomorrow on headed for Jerusalem, a vacancy for an of the possibility of gaining access to var- evening of July 5. They never glimpsed discussions took place, and [on] this trip Radio Jerusalem and that new short- office manager was open in Manila. Mr. ious radio outlets in the Mediterranean Israel until mid-August. The war had it was made official! It’s one of the most wave-radio equipment had been or- Dick instantly assumed that Mr. Arm- Sea area,” he said. “Before the Six Day changed the plans for the radio pro- important things that ever happened for dered from Germany to increase its strong was offering him the job in the War [in June 1967] we were in England gram, and that affected Mr. Dick’s job. God’s work. power so it could be heard anywhere on Philippines. and had begun negotiations with the “There we were on a beautiful Medi- “Ambassador College has just been earth.” “I replied that I supposed I would go Hashemite Broadcasting Co. [of Jordan] terranean island with a lovely, fully fur- given the great honor and responsibility The World Tomorrow, the church’s home and start packing,” Mr. Dick said. to air the World Tomorrow broadcast on nished home and a new car but without of entering joint participation with broadcast, which featured the voice of “Since I didn’t seem as shocked and their Radio Jerusalem station. a job description. Why were we here?” Hebrew University of Jerusalem in the Herbert Armstrong and later his son elated as he thought I should be, he “In anticipation of successful negoti- Thanks to the war, “Jerusalem was most important archaeological excava- Garner Ted speaking on hundreds of restated his question. He said he meant ations, the business director of the newly united, and Israel lost no time tion of our time—uncovering 3,000 demolishing every barrier that had once years of history!” separated them from their holy places,” Fruitful arrangement said Mr. Dick. ‘Later in the summer, at night, we could look toward “The Mandelbaum Gate was reduced It is THE JOURNAL’s conclusion that to a pile of bricks, mortar and rubbish. Mr. Armstrong’s public announcements Jericho and we could see flashes of light from There were no longer checkpoints with about the dig in those early years were police demanding to see our passports. incomplete and in some cases inac- bombings and fighting,’ said Mr. Bjoraker. “Seven miles beyond Jerusalem, on curate. the way to Ramallah, we came to the After the contacts had been made and AM stations in the United States and transferring to the place to which Christ Hashemite station, Adli Muhtadi, and I beautiful villa we were to later call much behind-the-scenes work had been elsewhere, was a program begun by the would return. He meant Jerusalem. located a suitable office-residence in home. Bob Smith, the college decorator, undertaken through the auspices of the senior Armstrong in the 1930s (original- “Yes, I was shocked.” Ramallah about seven miles north of had gone to Beirut to find the quality church’s office in Jerusalem, the exca- ly called Radio Church of God) and Jerusalem. furnishings that perfectly suited this vation arrangement indeed came to later expanded to include television Didn’t seem right “This was in anticipation of handling magnificent structure.” fruition. broadcasts. Mr. Armstrong and other church the mail, correspondence and literature Mr. Dick said he and his wife had not But Mr. Armstrong’s announcements “To take care of the mail this daily elders had met that morning on campus distribution resulting from the Radio planned to move to Israel, but as winter were incomplete in that they failed to broadcast [over Radio Jerusalem] would and decided that “it just hadn’t seemed Jerusalem broadcast.” set in they couldn’t seem to keep warm mention that one of the men most generate,” said Mr. Dick, “an office and right to send the Dockens to Jerusalem, Mr. Dick continued: “My wife, our in their Cyprus residence. responsible for the negotiations that led a home had been leased near Jerusalem. a war zone, because they had four son and I were waiting to leave for “Since the home in Israel had central to the dig, and indeed for the existence “The college interior decorator was young daughters,” said Mr. Dick. Jerusalem the next morning, but Mr. heating, we were given permission to of the arrangements in the first place, already there to completely furnish this But to change plans and send some- [Herbert] Armstrong decided that be- move. We arrived Christmas day 1967, was Mr. Dick. 18-room villa. one else to Jerusalem instead required cause of the tense political situation in and, except for my press credentials, I Most are not aware of the story be- “Since the Israelis could not send the approval of Herbert Armstrong. the Middle East my wife, Norma, and had no assigned duties to occupy my hind the college’s and church’s involve- mail to an Arab address, a second office “He [the elder Armstrong] was con- our 15-year-old son, Randall, should time.” ment with the Israelis on the project. In had been leased and furnished in Nico- tacted, he agreed to send the Dicks, and come later.” an amazing succession of events, things sia, Cyprus. Office managers for both the change was made,” said Mr. Dick. A history lesson just seemed to work out—say some for- offices had already been selected, and The Dicks soon left Texas on the first Israel at war With time on his hands, shortly after mer diggers—that resulted in many AC the first broadcast was scheduled to be leg of their journey to a new assign- Early on the morning of June 5, moving to Jerusalem Mr. Dick decided students spending their summers in aired live from Jerusalem at 8 p.m. ment. Their first stop: Pasadena. 1967, Mr. Dick and Mr. Armstrong to go to Eilat and continue all the way to Jerusalem. Wednesday, June 7, 1967.” “I received a card stating that I was a were on their way to London’s Heath- the north end of the country to locate How it began press representative for The Plain Truth row Airport. and visit the sites that would be of spe- Mice and men magazine,” said Mr. Dick. “Those were “Mr. Charles Hunting and Mr. cial interest to members of the church. Mr. Dick, who came to Ambassador Mr. Dick recalls that the Jerusalem the days of instant experts. Journalists, Howard Clark, our head photographer, He knew from experience, he said, as a married student in 1957, tells how office’s manager was to be Art Docken, photographers, teachers, ministers and had gone ahead,” remembers Mr. Dick. how easy it was to pay for an expensive it all began for him during the Days of who was a church employee managing even the first jet pilots were in-house” “We were midway between our Bricket trip and yet miss most of the sites that Unleavened Bread in 1967. the church’s Manila, Philippines, office. church and college employees. Wood campus and the airport when a were important to WCG members. “During the afternoon sermon on the John Jewell, an employee from the Am- “We arrived at the Bricket Wood news flash came over the car radio. Mr. Dick met an Israeli reporter who first day of Unleavened Bread at bassador campus in Bricket Wood, campus of Ambassador College in En- Israel was at war. was also a professional tour guide Ambassador College in Big Sandy, England, would manage the Cyprus gland on Sunday, May 28, 1967.” “We rode in silence. Mr. Armstrong named Richard Stoehr. When Mr. Texas, Mr. Ted Armstrong [vice chan- office. Mr. Dick’s supervisor in England said nothing more until we arrived at Stoehr learned of Mr. Dick’s plan to cellor of Ambassador and son of church Mr. Dick, who at the time was direc- was Charles Hunting, who then served the airport. He had reached a decision. tour the country, he asked to go along. founder Herbert Armstrong] shocked tor of the church’s mailing department as the business manager for the college Mr. Charles Hunting would fly to Jor- “Returning from Eilat, Mr. Stoehr his audience by saying the Jews had to on the campus in Big Sandy, vividly in Britain. dan to deliver the backup tape so the said we would pass [David] Ben- build a temple,” said Mr. Dick. remembers subsequent events. Mr. Hunting, now 84 and a resident broadcast would go out on schedule.” Gurion’s kibbutz [communal farm],” “The only place to build it was on the “The next day it was back to work as of Sarasota, Fla., recently talked with Mr. Hunting got as far as Athens. said Mr. Dick. “He knew Mr. Ben- Temple Mount in East Jerusalem, so usual,” he said. “The college had a very THE JOURNAL about the church’s and “All flights into the war zone had Gurion and said we should stop and see something had to happen soon to place fine, elegant faculty dining room, and college’s involvement in Jerusalem. been canceled, and six days later the him. I explained it was almost the Sab- it under Israel’s control. Remember, this faculty members and certain key em- “I went to Ramallah and located an Temple Mount was under Jewish con- bath, we had been on the road for three was April 1967, and the church was ployees had lunch there during the office there,” Mr. Hunting said. “We trol, just as Mr. Ted Armstrong had pre- days, we had not been invited, and we expected to flee [to Petra, in Jordan] in week. had also opened an office in Cyprus. We dicted,” said Mr. Dick. “But, alas, there were not going to stop.” 1972. “At noon I went to the dining room had purchased radio time on Jerusalem was no longer a Radio Jerusalem. With- Mr. Ben-Gurion, an early prime min- “The main announcement that after- as usual, but the seating arrangement Radio. I had negotiated and got the out a broadcast there was no need for an ister of Israel, “was one of the greatest noon was about establishing an office had been changed. There was an empty property to rent in Ramallah. When I office. My job had ceased to exist.” statesmen who ever lived,” said Mr. and having a contract for The World chair across from where I was seated. got it, it was in Jordanian hands.” The Israeli air force had attacked air- Dick. “He was instrumental in the cre- Tomorrow.” “Mr. Ted Armstrong had been re- Mr. Hunting, who had entered Am- fields in Egypt, Syria, Jordan and Iraq ation of the state of Israel.” Radio Jerusalem cording a broadcast and came in a few bassador at Pasadena in 1958, was a and destroyed about 400 aircraft, most After learning that they would not minutes late. I was surprised to see him 1961 graduate of Ambassador in Brick- still on the ground. During the war stop at the kibbutz, Mr. Stoehr asked Garner Ted Armstrong (who died come right to the empty chair across et Wood. His first ordination was as an Israel would lose 759 soldiers and suffer almost immediately: “Are you interested Sept. 15, 2003) revealed much “new from me. elder at the Feast of Tabernacles at Big about 3,000 wounded. in archaeology? Professor Mazar is start- information” in that sermon, remembers “Almost immediately he turned to Sandy in 1959. The Arabs would lose about 15,000 ing an archaeological dig at the southern Mr. Dick. me and asked me what I would do if I Mr. Hunting explained the church’s soldiers and airmen. At war’s end Israel See THE BIG DIG, page 7 Sept. 30, 2003 THE JOURNAL 7 The ‘big dig’ in Israel became part of Church of God history Continued from page 6 “He [Mr. Armstrong] was surprised and take us into the Arab areas.” the lobby walls were pitted also. more than pleased. Getting something “Later in the summer, at night, we wall of the Temple Mount. Would you Not your average tourists be interested in volunteering to dig?” of importance started in Israel had long could look toward Jericho and we could “Yes, I would,” Mr. Dick responded. been his fondest wish.” Mr. Bjoraker told THE JOURNAL what see flashes of light from bombings and “We arranged that on Sunday morn- In June of the next year, 1969, about the workday was like. fighting.” 65 Ambassador students arrived in Jeru- “We worked heavy half days. The ing we would meet at the dig office at 7 Desperate hunger o’clock,” Mr. Dick said. Mr. Stoehr salem to donate their labor for the next day started early to beat the heat, and we “would introduce me to Mazar, and we two months. were usually done by around 2 in the THE JOURNAL asked Mr. Bjoraker where would both dig. “We booked a small hotel and hired a afternoon. That gave us a chance to walk the students stayed while in Jerusalem. “I was middle-aged, overweight and city bus to transport the students be- around Jerusalem and tour the sites. “We stayed at the Cliff Hotel in the out of shape, but I received no special tween their hotel and the dig.” “We were digging on the Temple Arab section of the city,” he said. “It consideration. Our square measured Mr. Armstrong transferred Ray and Mount. I had the feeling we were recog- was called that because it was up high. about 15 feet by 15 feet and was about Norma Dick back to Bricket Wood in nized. People knew we were there dig- We could look down on the Temple 10 feet deep.” DIG 1974 1970. Their son Randall had begun his ging on the south wall. We didn’t look Mount and the valley. The Mount of —Diggers in Jerusalem college education there in 1969. Mr. in 1974, the sixth year of Ambas- like the average tourist. Typically we Olives was right across from us.” All was vanity Armstrong named Richard Frankel the wore short-sleeved, light-colored shirts, Perched on top of the Mount of sador College’s participation, new office manager in Jerusalem. Mr. Dick’s digging partner was pause for a picture. From left: hats and shorts. Olives was the luxurious Intercontinen- “We were instructed to drink a lot of tal Hotel. someone named Yitzhak. Sammy O’Dell, Angie Mohler, Deb- Valuable exposure “This young muscle man was mak- bie Mohler, Laurie Wagner and water. It was extremely dry. It was “When we got desperate for Ameri- ing me look pretty bad. We had rubber Kevin Hudson. [Photo courtesy When this writer asked Mr. Dick amazing how fast you could become can food, we would climb up there to a tubs into which we shoveled our dirt. Angie Mohler Kelley] what the benefits of the dig were for the dehydrated.” coffee shop where we could get coffee When the tubs were full, they were church, he responded: “Mr. Armstrong Mr. Bjoraker explained where the and a hamburger.” handed up to the Arab workers up on was exposed to the top people in Israel. students excavated. As many people who travel abroad ground level. Mr. Dick remembers asking the man, It gave him an opportunity that he “We dug on the south and west wall have found, food can cause problems. “If I had been content to let Yitzhak a Dr. Bull, a professor from a college in would not have had otherwise.” of the Temple Mount. We were digging “Many of us got Pharaoh’s revenge,” outwork me, this account might never New Jersey, what equipment he needed Some 500 students were involved in down through the Byzantine era. We he said. “It turned out that we were get- have taken place, but I was too vain for and what the cost would be. Dr. Bull the dig over the years, from 1969 found a very interesting inscription as ting it from the hotel. For a few days I that. We had nearly a dozen rubber tubs. said he needed about $30,000. through 1975. well as coins and pottery. only ate food from street vendors and I I found that the moist, loose dirt would This could be an open door, Mr. Dick “They also got to tour Israel and parts “The tools we used were very small didn’t have any problems.” thought. It shouldn’t be too difficult to of Europe. It gave them an experience picks and shovels. The dirt was lifted roll down in a neat grade. I could fill A warm good-bye seven tubs in about seven minutes. I raise that relatively small amount. they never would have had.” out of the holes with pails made of old showed Yitzhak what I was doing, but “Ernest Martin brought in a group of Professor Mazar would continue the tires sewed together with a handle. If The day the Ambassador students left he insisted on continuing to fill his tubs students and faculty from the Bricket dig until 1978 with assistance from the the hole got so deep we couldn’t hand for home was an eventful one, Mr. one small scoop at a time.” Wood campus each year,” said Mr. Israel Exploration Society. the pail out, it was lifted up by a rope. Bjoraker recalls. Mr. Dick’s tubs were going up at a Dick. “The tour was over, they were Mr. Dick’s friend Benjamin Mazar, We were moving small amounts at a “The day we left was a memorable provocative rate of seven at a time, in- leaving, and we went to see them off. I who was born Binyamen Maisler in time so it could be examined. one; it made the world news,” he said. spiring an undercurrent of grumbling briefly told Dr. Martin about being able Ciechanowiec, Poland, on June 28, “We were there in conjunction with “A young man from Australia named among the dirt haulers. to get into archaeology.” 1906, was educated in Germany. He Hebrew University, and they had an office Rohan had set fire to the al-Aqsa “Apparently Mazar must have no- Mr. Dick didn’t hear anything back immigrated to Palestine at age 23, in in a nearby building. If we found some- mosque. It is the second most holy place ticed the increased activity at our from Dr. Martin until late August. 1929, and joined the faculty of Hebrew thing interesting it would go to them.” in the Arab world.” square,” Mr. Dick said. “I was hard at At 10 o’clock one evening Mr. University in 1943. One day Mr. Bjoraker sensed things The man was Dennis Michael Rohan, work when he appeared at our square.” Dick’s phone rang. In 1952 the university named him rec- were somehow different at the dig sight. a non-Jewish tourist from Australia. “Deek,” called out Professor Mazar. “It was Ernest Martin. Mr. Arm- tor, and in 1953 he became president. He “One morning some Orthodox Jews AWeb site at www.palestinefacts.org He always called Mr. Dick “Deek.” strong had arrived [at Bricket Wood] to served in that capacity for eight years. moved in right where we were digging. sponsored by the Jewish Internet As- “Deek, come to the office for coffee.” sociation (JIA) de- So Mr. Dick climbed out of his scribes Mr. Rohan as square and joined the professor for a “an Australian Prot- cup of strong, thick, sweet coffee. estant follower of an “After that, this ritual took place a evangelical sect known couple of times a day, and if there were as the Church of God. any important visitors I was called out By his own admission, of my square to meet them.” Rohan hoped to hasten Mr. Dick’s digging duties continued the coming of the Mes- for only four days, but during that time siah by burning down the professor “adopted” him, he says. the al-Aqsa Mosque” so “I was part of the team and a person- Jews could “rebuild the al friend.” Jewish Temple on the These events happened in March of Ray Dick Charles Hunting Don Bjoraker Ken Treybig Dave Havir Kimberly Mabry Temple Mount.” 1968. “All spring and summer I would The “Church of God” visit the dig, and Mazar would proudly described on the site show me what had been uncovered begin the new school year. Dr. Martin Professor Mazar died Sept. 9, 1995. They were there illegally. They were was the Worldwide Church of God. Mr. since my last visit.” had given him my information, and Mr. More information about him can be testing the waters, so to speak. We tried Rohan turned out to be a “coworker,” Armstrong was interested.” found at the Web site of a former Am- to ignore them and continue working one who had regularly donated money Expanding the project By this time Dr. Bull had left Israel bassador professor, Michael Germano, even though they were in our dig area.” to the church. Mr. Dick remembers the professor and returned to the United States. Mr. www.bibarch.com. After a short time the authorities The JIA Web site said Mr. Rohan was being “almost like a father” to him. Dick read an article in The Jerusalem ordered them away. hospitalized in a mental institution, “He was a great man whom I great- Post that announced that another archae- A student’s good idea “Ernest Martin was our dig director, found to be insane and eventually de- ly admired and respected. He had been ological project was in need of funds. One of the first student volunteers at and Ray Dick was there as the church’s ported back to Australia. the president of Hebrew University for Mr. Dick explained: “The next day, the dig was a 28-year-old junior who office manager. Randall [Dick] came The fire Mr. Rohan started was on a number of years. He was a great the day before the Feast of Trumpets, a attended the Big Sandy campus of around the dig often and spent a lot of the southern end of the Temple Mount, scholar, a great writer and a leading full-page article appeared in The Ambassador. Don Bjoraker, who lives time there. Being a resident, he knew remembers Mr. Bjoraker. archaeologist.” Jerusalem Post all about the dig. Norma in Hawkins, Texas, entered Ambassador his way around Jerusalem, and he was “We had been working right below it. During this time a faculty member at asked, ‘Did you see this?’ If finances as a 25-year-old in 1966, coming from able to give us a lot of information even I had gone there as a tourist and looked Bricket Wood, Ernest Martin, and a permitted, they would dig the year Owatonna, Minn. though he was just a kid.” around the mosque. As we looked down small group of AC students were in round.” Mr. Bjoraker, now 62, and his wife, All work and some play from the Cliff Hotel, it was almost like Israel on an annual educational tour Mr. Dick decided to visit the dig site the former Gladie Osborne, talked with looking across. We saw smoke coming during the college’s summer break. and meet with officials there. THE JOURNAL about his memories of that The students held to a pretty strict out of the place.” Mr. Hunting explained how the “In Israel, Trumpets is a two-day hol- first year of the project in Jerusalem. schedule, but they found time for leisure One of the students, Freddy Martin, church’s involvement in the dig iday,” he said. “Mazar had gone to “I suspect it was a little different for activities as well. from the Bricket Wood campus, ran expanded. Haifa and would be back the third day. students from Pasadena and Bricket Mr. Bjoraker shared an experience: down to investigate the blaze. As a “Ernest Martin [who died in January Only Meir Ben-Dov and another man Wood, but those of us from Big Sandy “Four of us got on a bus and spent a few result, the Israeli authorizes almost did 2003] presented the idea to Mr. Arm- were in the office. Meir agreed we had to come up with the money for the days in Eilat. That is on the northern tip not allow the students to leave. strong, who saw its immediate possibil- should join their dig. The other man was trip,” Mr. Bjoraker said. of the Gulf of Aqaba, also known as the “I think it took some fast talking to ities: possible further inroads into get- Yosef Aviram. “Basically, the expense was the Gulf of Eilat.” get those guys out of there,” said Mr. ting the gospel to Israel, prestige for the After Mr. Aviram became convinced transportation cost; it did not cost us Eilat, which had a population of about Bjoraker. “I feel it was our close rela- college in its tie-in with Hebrew Uni- Ambassador’s involvement would be a while we were there. My dad provided 50,000, is Israel’s southernmost city, on tionship with Hebrew University that versity, and a great chance to broaden good thing, in walked Professor Mazar. the funds for me. He had sold his busi- the eastern sleeve of the Red Sea. got those guys out of there.” “There was a place where we could The authorities were taking people the educational background of our stu- Mr. Dick remembers the professor’s ness, and I convinced him this was a response: “When he heard our proposal, rent snorkeling gear. From there we into custody and questioning them. dents.” good idea.” traveled five or six miles to the coral Mr. Dick added some details of the his reaction was, ‘Fantastic, absolutely Two pastors’ perspective fantastic.’ ” Mr. Bjoraker remembers flying from reefs. We snorkeled and camped out on events that led to the big dig. Love Field in Dallas to Kennedy Air- the beach for two days. We spent most Two church pastors now serving in “Dr. [Herman] Hoeh, from the Pasa- One little string port in New York, where the Big Sandy of the time in the water. the Big Sandy area were members of dena campus of Ambassador College, students met up with Pasadena students “It was very impressive. We don’t the 1972 contingent of students who asked that I find some pictures of Pella Mr. Dick remembers the skepticism of some of the Israelis. on their way to Heathrow in England. have anything like that in East Texas.” traveled to Israel for a memorable sum- for him. “Why would anyone offer to give “I didn’t know what to expect when The students ended up walking the mer at the dig. “Although Pella was in Jordan, I them $100,000 a year unless there were we reached Jerusalem,” he said, “but five or six miles back to the bus sta- Ken Treybig, who came to Ambassa- rushed to the government archives in strings attached? Other organizations there were signs there welcoming us to tion, running out of water on the way. dor in Big Sandy from Houston, Texas, Tel Aviv. There were thousands of pic- had offered support, but their conditions the country. Moshe Kol was the minis- They arrived tired and thirsty. and later graduated in 1974 from the tures but none of Pella.” had not been acceptable. ter of tourism at the time. He had a good “When we boarded the bus for the church-operated college, spent the sum- Mr. Dick’s search for Pella, where “Our only request was that we be relationship with Ambassador. return trip, we were surprised to see a mer of ’72 in Jerusalem. early Christians were said to have fled written up in their journals, and this was “We stayed at the Cliff Hotel, which soldier with a tommy gun in the right- Mr. Treybig is pastor of the United when the Romans invaded Jerusalem in only to help us in our quest for [college] was south of the dig. It was an Arab hotel. hand seat by the driver. We had to go up Church of God congregation that usual- A.D. 70, led him to the American School accreditation.” That was a good experience because we to Tel Aviv and back down to Jerusalem ly meets in Gilmer, Texas. He lives in of Oriental Research in Jerusalem. Mr. Armstrong made a trip to Israel developed a very close relationship with because of the threat of terrorism.” Gladewater with his wife, Kathy. THE JOURNAL asked Mr. Treybig what Open door in November of that year, 1968, to spe- some of the Arab employees. A routine Mr. Bjoraker remembers cifically approve the arrangements that “We had a term of 11 weeks. The first well is traveling to church services each made him decide to dedicate a summer “As I entered the lobby [of the had been made regarding the dig. week was devoted to an intense tour of Sabbath. to an archaeological project in faraway school], I heard a man who seemed “I related all the events as they devel- Israel. We had two very nice Arab buses “We boarded a bus and went to a Jerusalem. thoroughly frustrated telling about the oped and details of the agreement I had with Arab tour guides. YWCA for church services. The hall we “I wanted to visit the land of the problems at his dig on Mount Girazim,” reached with Professor Mazar on behalf “It was good to have Arabs because met in was on the second floor. The ele- Bible,” he replied. “My brother had said Mr. Dick. of Ambassador College,” said Mr. Dick. things were very tense, and they could vator was riddled with bullet holes, and See AC DIGGERS, page 39 8 THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 Essay Are the supreme beings of Islam and the Bible one and the same?

The writer is managing editor of The this young man—and such happens all Ancient Egyptians could say that Ra, “Neither does Allah ‘have feelings’ this would include you and me.] Good News and booklets for the United too frequently in the Middle East—our Isis or Osiris was the one true God, but toward man. That concept is foreign to “Arrest them, besiege them, and lie Church of God, Milford, Ohio. This reaction is typically to feel sick inside. this didn’t mean that the Hebrew God Islamic teaching. That would reduce in ambush everywhere for them.” essay is based on a sermon Mr. Ashley But that is not the typical reaction in Yahweh and the Egyptian deities were Allah to being a mere man—which Note here that Muhammad’s follow- delivered in several UCG congrega- the Muslim world. Customarily the one and the same. again is blasphemous to a Muslim.” ers are specifically told to fight dirty— tions in recent months. A previous essay family of a suicide bomber is showered The Canaanites could have taught to lie in wait to ambush others, not to by Mr. Ashley, “In View of Sept. 11, Was with praise and gifts, and, in the case of that Baal or Molech was the one true Active vs. passive fight them out in the open. Islam Ever a Religion of Peace?,” ran Saddam Hussein until recently, he re- God, or the Greeks and Romans could “Allah does not personally enter into This reminds me of the passage in in THE JOURNAL April 30, 2003. warded families of suicide bombers have argued that Zeus or Jupiter or human history and act as a historical the Bible concerning the Amalekites with $25,000, which is a fortune in that Saturn was the one true God. But mere- agent. He always deals with the world attacking the Israelites when they came By Scott Ashley part of the world. ly arguing that there is one God doesn’t through his word, prophets, and angels. up out of Egypt. RVADA, Colo.—Mohammad You may have seen footage of automatically mean that the one God He does not personally come down to The Amalekites attacked the rear of was a student at Al-Najah Uni- Palestinians dancing in the streets and you choose to worship is the right one deal with man. the Israelite column, killing the weak Aversity in Nablus, a Palestinian cheering in the aftermath of the attacks or that they are all one and the same. “How different is the biblical idea of and the infirm, the young children and city a few miles north of Jerusalem in of Sept. 11, 2001. You may have heard In the Bible the one true God has the incarnation, in which God himself the elderly, rather than targeting the the West Bank. This was a special time that immediately after that tragedy the revealed Himself in such a way that His enters history and acts to bring about Israelite fighting men. for him, because today was the day of most popular name for newborn boys in character and nature cannot be confused man’s salvation.” I think this could be the earliest re- his final exam to graduate from the uni- the Muslim world was Osama, after with the nature and character of the corded incident of terrorism, and that’s versity, and to- Osama bin Laden. pagan deities of other peoples. Ignorance of the differences exactly what it is. morrow was to More recently you may have heard The cult of the moon god that wor- Mr. Morey concludes: “Many West- It’s the same people still doing it, and be his wedding that earlier this year the most popular shiped Allah was transformed by Mu- erners assume that Allah is just another it’s the same mentality at work over the day, a day he had name for newborn boys in the Muslim hammad into a monotheistic faith with name for God. This is due to their igno- centuries from the time of the Exodus to planned for three world was Saddam, after Saddam Hus- its own holy book and eventually more rance of the differences between the the time of Muhammad right down to years. sein, who at the time was being por- than a billion followers. But, since Allah of the Quran and the God of the our day. He arose early trayed on Arabic TV stations as defeat- Muhammad started his religion with a Bible and also due to the propaganda of Of course, God’s judgment on the that morning to ing the American and British forces pagan god, it should come as no sur- Muslim evangelists who use the idea Amalekites was that their actions were go to the nearby before he suddenly disappeared and his prise that he ended up with a pagan god. that Allah is just another name for God so despicable that God instructed that mosque for prayers nation collapsed. What are some of the differences as an opportunity to convert Westerners they were to be wiped out entirely. and the reading between Allah—the God of Muham- to Islam. of the Koran. Af- Motivating beliefs mad and the Koran—and the God of the “The Bible and the Quran are two Sentence of crucifixion ter that he went Scott Ashley What drives this kind of thinking? Bible? competing documents that differ in their Another sura (chapter from the to the university, What beliefs would make a college stu- The book The Islamic Invasion, by concept of deity. This fact cannot be Koran) that illustrates Allah’s cruelty is where he took his final exam. Then he dent plan for three years to blow himself Robert Morey, chapter 5, has a helpful overlooked just because it is not in con- Sura 5:34-35: “Those that make war went to the mosque again for another of up while trying to take with him as analysis of the differences. Let’s look at formity with the present popularity of against Allah and His apostle [Muham- the five daily prayers required of many Jews as he could? And what can some of them because they do disprove religious relativism.” mad] and spread disorder in the land Muslims. we expect to see out of the Arab and this dangerous assumption. shall be slain or crucified or have their Then he returned home, where he Muslim world in the years ahead? Blunt summary hands and feet cut off on alternate sides, and his family sat up talking late into What is the Muslim worldview, and Knowable vs. unknowable A source that I read months ago con- or be banished from the land. They shall the night because, after all, this was the how can it help us better understand so “According to the Bible, God is cisely and bluntly summed up the dif- be held up to shame in this world and last night before his wedding. much of what’s going on in the world? knowable,” writes Mr. Morey. “Jesus ferences between the God of the Bible sternly punished in the hereafter . . .” The next morning Mohammad again Let me start with the caveat that Christ came into this world that we and Allah of the Koran. It said that, in Notice that here Allah commands rose early, because this was the big day. Muslims, like followers of traditional might know God (John 17:3). Christianity, God sent His Son to die for torture of prisoners. Crucifixion was a He washed himself, sprinkled himself Christianity, don’t all believe and prac- “But in Islam, Allah is unknowable. you. In Islam, you send your son to die horrible form of torture and execution. with perfume and put on his best clothes tice the same things. A range of belief He is so transcendent, so exalted, that for Allah. Cutting off a prisoner’s hand on one for his wedding. exists within Islam just as a range of no man can ever personally know Allah. The book Inside Islam, by Reza Safa, side and his foot on the other side was When he left the house, he kissed his belief exists within Christianity. We see While according to the Bible, man can features a short section that perfectly barbaric and deliberately crippling and mother’s hand as he usually did and again maimed a person for life. went to the mosque for morning prayers. In Islamic lands ruled by Islamic law, After morning prayers he finished The information here is in the Koran and teachings of thieves’ hands are typically cut off as preparations for his wedding, which punishment for their stealing. included putting on a large, heavy belt Muhammad, and plenty of Muslims believe it. These are the Contrast that to God’s punishment that would insure that his marriage for theft. The thief had to restore the would go as planned. major beliefs that motivate the majority of Muslims. value of the stolen item several times Back out in the bright sunlight, he over. If the debt were paid, the thief pre- caught the morning bus along its regular extreme conservatives, extreme liberals come into a personal relationship with illustrates this concept. Mr. Safa, a for- sumably had learned his lesson, would route, a bus that carried mostly Jewish and a whole lot of people who simply God, the Allah of the Quran is so dis- mer Muslim, writes on page 41: repent and could go on with his life. passengers back and forth among the don’t know what their religion teaches. tant, so far off, so abstract, that no one “To a Muslim, dying and killing for But under Islamic law a thief would many towns and settlements that ringed Nevertheless, the information cov- can know him.” the cause of Islam is not only an honor, be permanently crippled, marked and Jerusalem. ered here is to be found in the Koran but also a way of pleasing Allah. The humiliated, branded as a thief for the After boarding the vehicle, Moham- and teachings of Muhammad, and plen- Personal vs. impersonal only way Muslims can have assurance rest of his life, with no room for mercy, mad worked his way onto the middle of ty of Muslims believe it. I’m trying to “The God of the Bible is spoken of as of salvation and eternal life is by repentance and forgiveness. the bus, thinking all the time of his com- help you understand the major beliefs a personal being with intellect, emotion, becoming a martyr for the cause of During and after the recent war we ing wedding. that motivate the majority of Muslims. and will. This is in contrast to Allah, Islam. This is why so many young boys heard incredible accounts of torture and When the moment was right, a who is not to be understood as a person. in Iran volunteered to become a basiji cruelty out of Iraq in the reports of how strange smile came over his face. He Allah vs. God This would lower him to the level of (‘the mobilized’) [in the Iran-Iraq war in Saddam Hussein and his cronies dealt opened his mouth, shouted, “Allah First, keep firmly in mind an impor- man.” the 1980s]. with people who opposed them. akbar!” (Arabic for “Allah is great!”) tant truth from which so many other “[Ayatollah] Khomeini went on tele- Those incidents didn’t happen in a and pressed a switch on his heavy belt. truths flow: Allah and the God of the Limited vs. unlimited vision asking for ten thousand volun- vacuum. The cultures in that part of the Mohammad exploded into a pink Bible are not one and the same. “The biblical God is limited by His teers to fight in the war. The next day all world are cruel. Islam is a religion of mist, as did the Israeli passengers What I have just stated is one of the own immutable and unalterable nature. the boys on the street who had volun- the desert, started among people who around him. most politically incorrect statements a Thus God cannot do anything and teered had a piece of red tape on their lived in a hard and cruel land and who Screws, nails and ball bearings shot person can make but one that I firmly everything. In Titus 1:2, we are told, foreheads. Their task would be to die for worshiped hard and cruel gods. out in all directions from his explosives- believe: God and Allah are not the ‘God cannot lie.’We are also told this in the cause. We shouldn’t be surprised that from packed belt. The bus burst into flames. same. Hebrews 6:18. God can never act in a “A basiji was committed to death, that environment came a religion and a The roof of the vehicle peeled back But nearly everyone simply assumes way that would contradict His divine not just the possibility of death. The culture and a god that were also harsh from the force of the blast. they are. I assumed that for a long time. nature (2 Timothy 2:13). basijis volunteered to clear the mine- and cruel. When the smoke had cleared, more However, after looking into the Koran “But when you turn to the Quran, fields with their bodies, and they did it. than a dozen Israelis lay dead, several and seeing what Allah supposedly you discover that Allah is not limited by Military leaders would send out as The hell of the Koran dozen more were injured, and Moham- revealed to Muhammad and what Allah anything. He is not even limited by his many as five thousand boys at once to Another way in which this harshness mad Al-Bustami had, in Muslim teach- wants his followers to do and how he own nature. Allah can do anything, any- run through the fields and trip the and cruelty are spelled out is in the ing, gone to his wedding. wants them to think and the values he time, anyplace, anywhere with no limi- mines. Sometimes they asked the boys Muslim view of hell. We recognize that He was now in paradise, with 72 wants to instill in them, and reading tations.” to clear high voltage border fences by the popular view of hell isn’t found in beautiful, dark-eyed, perpetually young material that shows the connections throwing their bodies against the fences. the Bible, and God isn’t the kind of virgins who would be his brides and between Islam and ancient moon-god Trust vs. caprice “Thousands of young bodies were cruel being who would torment people companions for all eternity. worship, it all makes sense. “Because the God of the Bible is lim- shattered and electrocuted in this man- for eternity in unquenchable flames. Allah is simply an ancient pagan ited by His own righteous nature and ner. Many of the boys were only twelve We know that these kinds of ideas Suicide on the Web deity, and Islam is simply continued there are certain things He cannot do, or thirteen years old. To them, Kho- came into Christianity from sources The story you just read can be found worship of that pagan god. He is completely consistent and trust- meini gave the promise of behesht outside the Bible. on the Web site of the Palestinian Stu- The underlying assumption of nearly worthy. (‘paradise’). To symbolize this false However, Islam most definitely dents Association at Al-Najah Univer- everyone is that, since Christianity and “But when we turn to study the promise, he gave them a key which teaches the existence of a hell in which sity, where it serves to recruit other sui- Islam and Judaism believe in a supreme actions of Allah in the Quran, we dis- they hung around their neck—a key non-Muslims will be tortured forever. cide bombers (it appears there in Arabic; being, and since there can in reality be cover that he is totally capricious and with which they could open the gate of Apparently Muhammad took some an English-language translation appears only one Supreme Being, all three faiths untrustworthy. He is not bound by his heaven.” false ideas about hell from false on an Israel Defense Forces Web site). believe in the same supreme being. nature or his word.” Christianity and incorporated them into Palestinians refer to Al-Najah Uni- Belief in one supreme being or one A cruel difference the Koran as Allah’s revelation. versity as “the greenhouse of the mar- God is called monotheism, from mono, Love vs. no love One area in which the differences The Koran describes many tortures tyrs” because eight of its students have meaning “one,” and theism, meaning “The love of God is the chief between Allah and the God of the Bible for residents of hell who had refused to blown themselves up as suicides. “belief in God.” attribute of the biblical God as revealed is evident is in the absolute cruelty and submit to Allah and become a Muslim. The institution is considered an But monotheism—belief in one in such places as John 3:16. God has lack of mercy that we see in the Koran. Sura 9:35 describes the punishment of arboretum where the seeds of martyr- God—doesn’t in and of itself tell you feelings for His creatures, especially Here are a few examples: hoarders of gold and silver who didn’t dom are planted and nourished until anything about the nature and identity man. Sura 9:5 says: “When the sacred spend their treasurers in their lifetimes they can bear their deadly fruit. of the one God being worshiped. In “But when we turn to the Quran, we months are over, slay the idolaters on Allah’s cause. other words, it isn’t enough to say there do not find love presented as the chief wherever you find them. [Keep in mind According to the Koran, their gold Sick inside is only one God if you worship the attribute of Allah. Instead, the transcen- that, in Muslim thinking, an idolater is and silver objects will be heated up in When we hear a story like the tale of wrong God. dence of Allah is his chief attribute. anyone who doesn’t worship Allah, so See JIHAD, page 9 Sept. 30, 2003 THE JOURNAL 9 Jihad, the struggle to spread Islam, is a sacred duty for Muslims Continued from page 8 Muhammad devised an effective In fact, anytime you eat in paradise of paradise you can take your pick. civil wars in some Muslim countries the fires of hell, and the miscreants will marketing plan for his religion. In war you smell like perfume because, ac- A number of suras also describe that where more hard-line factions battle for be branded on their faces, sides and against the infidels, Muslims have noth- cording to Muhammad, in paradise you in paradise the men will not only have control. back with those objects. ing to lose. Islam conquered much of never have to visit the bathroom. their 72 dark-eyed virgins, but all The Arab world is united against Sura 8:50 says: “If you could see the the known world in the seventh century The food you eat or drink in paradise around them will gather fresh-faced Israel because it is an abomination in a angels when they carry off the souls of because Muslims had a powerful moti- is transformed into perfume that oozes young boys as pretty as pearls who are land that was once dar al-Islam, part of the unbelievers! They shall strike them vation. The Koran spelled out that four out of your skin and makes you smell there to serve them if they are so the reign of Islam, to revert to dar al- on their faces and their backs, saying: fifths of the booty of a victory went to good all the time. inclined. harb, to come under domination of ‘Taste the torment of the Conflagration! the Muslim fighters, with the other fifth Also, whenever you burp or hiccup, I won’t go into more detail than that. Jewish or Christian heretics. This is the punishment for what your conveniently going to Muhammad or you smell like perfume. In fact, every- I will just say that the particular practice This is also why Osama bin Laden hands committed.’ ” charity (Sura 8:41). thing and everyone in paradise smells implied here is widespread in the Arab and others have been so motivated to So war was a self-financing effort. like perfume. world and apparently was also back in drive all Americans out of the Middle Road to perdition Muhammad didn’t have to pay soldiers Muhammad’s day. East in its entirety. Being sure So here you have Allah’s to fight to spread Islam; they It is not politically correct to say so, This also explains why in recent angels beating and maiming were happy to do so be- In paradise everyone is healthy, com- but the paradise of the Muslims is noth- decades incessant wars have been the souls of non-Muslims cause they could share plete, as tall as palm trees and in his ing more than the rantings and ravings fought on the fringes of the Islamic as they carry them away in the spoils. prime at the age of 33. of the sick and diseased mind of a self- world. In those areas Muslims have to hellfire. If a Muslim Still, in paradise some have it better proclaimed prophet, not a spiritual gained enough power to see victory Sura 44:43 states: man won in battle than others. If you are a good Muslim mind. within their grasp, so they wage terror- and lived, he man or woman who makes it into par- ist and civil wars to gain control of spe- “The fruit of the Islam and jihad Zaqqum tree shall be acquired loot and adise, there you will be married to the cific areas or entire countries. the sinner’s food. plunder, children spouse you had in this life if you both Another concept that we need to This Islamic quest for control lies Like dregs of oil, like for slaves, wom- were good enough. If not, you look understand is jihad, an Arabic word that directly behind the civil wars and scalding water, it shall en to take as around for someone else. means “struggle.” Jihad is a sacred duty unrest in Algeria, Ethiopia, Ivory simmer in his belly. A wives or sexual But, according to the Muslim author for Muslims. Coast, Kosovo, Kenya, Nigeria, Russia voice will cry: ‘Seize slaves. If he died, he of Inside Islam, you can never be sure You’ve probably heard some of the (Chenya), Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, him and drag him into the went to paradise. that you’re good enough to make it into debate about what jihad means. Some China, the Philippines, Israel and India depths of Hell.’Then pour out What could Muslim paradise, because Allah can be harsh in say that jihad refers simply to the per- (Kashmir). scalding water over his head, say- warriors look forward to in his judgments. sonal struggle a Muslim makes to The unambiguous teaching of Islam ing, ‘Taste this, illustrious and hon- paradise? I’ll summarize some pertinent In Muslim teaching there is only one become a good person. Some say jihad is that it is the supreme and only true ourable man! This is the punishment passages from the Koran. sure way to make it into paradise, and means holy war. religion and that it will win out over all it’s also the way you can be guaranteed In fact, both are right because jihad is other religions, and eventually the entire which you have doubted!’ ” Pearl decking Here again we have people tortured the best that paradise has to offer. the struggle for the cause of spreading world will come under its rule. without mercy, force-fed scalding liq- In paradise the faithful would enjoy That way is illustrated in the story I Islam. Sura 61:9 states: “It is He [Allah] uids, having boiling water poured over great wealth. Those who went there described in the beginning of this arti- Islam means submission or surren- who has sent for His apostle [Muham- them. If you don’t think Muslims take would be “decked with pearls and cle, the story of Mohammad the suicide der. So one who struggles with himself mad] with guidance and the true faith, this seriously, you’re mistaken. Mus- bracelets of gold, and arrayed in gar- bomber. to submit to Allah is carrying out the so that he may exalt it above all reli- lims have tortured infidels to death just ments of silk.” They would eat from You might have wondered why I duty of jihad, and the one who strug- gions, much as the idolaters [those who as this describes, boiling them to death gold dishes with gold and silver uten- kept mentioning that the day of his gles to spread Islam is also carrying out worship other gods, including Chris- in cauldrons. tians] may dislike it.” Sura 9:73: “Prophet, make war on Prophecies of Islam the unbelievers and the hypocrites and Some say jihad refers to the struggle a Muslim makes to become deal rigorously with them. Hell shall be So what does all this mean for the their home: an evil fate.” a good person. Some say it means holy war. Both are right future? Where might this be headed? Here Muhammad justifies the bru- At the conclusion of the earlier essay tality of his religion. He says that because jihad is the struggle for the cause of spreading Islam. (in April), we took a look at Daniel 11. Allah himself revealed to him person- Let’s go there again. This is a crucial ally that people of other religions are prophecy because its fulfillment triggers evil and belong in hell. Therefore, sils. They would “recline on green cush- death was his wedding day. In Muslim the duty of jihad. a series of events that will lead directly according to the Prophet, any barbaric ions and fine carpets” and “jeweled teaching, you see, that’s exactly what it Muslims who believe in jihad as holy to a worldwide bloodbath and the return act against unbelievers is justified couches.” is, because the only sure way to enter war have no problem finding verses in of Jesus Christ as King of Kings and because they deserve it and they’re In short, they would enjoy wealth paradise is to die as a martyr fighting the Koran and the hadiths that justify Lord of Lords. headed for hell anyway. unlike anything they were likely to see for Islam. violence. To many of them, in fact, the “At the time of the end the king of in this life. As soon as a martyr sheds the first teachings of Islam require violence to the South [south from the perspective of People of the Book In the desert of the Middle East, the drop of blood, he is guaranteed a place spread Islam. Note a few passages from the Holy Land] shall attack him; and the Sura 98:6: “The unbelievers among inhabitants didn’t have much water. So in paradise. When he arrives, he has the Koran. king of the North shall come against the People of the Book and the pagans the new resident of paradise would ben- waiting for him 72 young, dark-eyed, Sura 8:60: “Let not the unbelievers him like a whirlwind, with chariots, shall burn forever in the fire of Hell. efit from many springs of water, each beautiful virgins—or houris—whose think that they will ever get away. They horsemen, and with many ships; and he They are the vilest of all creatures.” one with a different taste. The most skin glows like sunlight. These are to be have not the power so to do. Muster shall enter the countries, overwhelm Understand that “People of the prominent were a spring that would his brides on his wedding day. Let’s against them all the men and cavalry at them, and pass through” (verse 40). Book” refers to Christians and Jews. So, taste like the camphor tree, one that notice a few passages concerning this. your command, so that you may strike Egypt has generally been the center would taste like nectar, one that would terror into the enemy of Allah and your of the land of the king of the South, according to Muhammad, Christians Soft couches and Jews who don’t accept Islam are no taste like ginger and one that would enemy, and going back to the time of the giving of better than pagans and deserve to burn taste like wine. Sura 37:40-48: “But the oth- this prophecy. Egypt is directly in the forever because “they are the vilest of Rivers flowed in paradise. One was true servants of Allah middle of the Muslim Arab lands on the all creatures” in the world. a river of water, another of milk, an- shall be well provided for, one side and Muslim North Africa on Sura 22:19-21: “Garments of fire other of honey and another of wine. feasting on fruit, and hon- the other. It’s directly in the heart of the have been prepared for the unbelievers. Muhammad was promised his own oured in the gardens of Islamic world. Scalding water shall be poured upon river, which featured banks made of delight. Reclining face to So this end-time king of the South their heads, melting their skins and that pearls. face upon soft couches, “attacks” the king of the North. which is in their bellies. They shall be Paradise was loaded with fruit trees they shall be served with a This word attacks is also translated lashed with rods of iron. Whenever, in covered with apples, dates, grapes, basil goblet filled at a gushing “push at” in the KJV. The Hebrew word their anguish, they try to escape from and flowers, all with trunks and branch- fountain, white and deli- is used to described the way a goat butts Hell, back they shall be dragged, and es made of gold. cious to those who drink it. at objects with his head, so either “push- will be told: ‘Taste the torment of the On earth the acacia tree doesn’t bear It will neither dull their es at” or “attacks” or “rams” would be Conflagration!’ ” fruit, but in the Islamic paradise it bears senses nor befuddle them. ers besides them who valid translations. Sura 18:28-29: “For the wrongdoers fruit with 70 tastes and colors. They will sit with bashful, dark-eyed are unknown to you but Whatever this “attack” or “pushing We have prepared a fire which will Because shade in the desert was hard virgins, as chaste as the sheltered eggs known to Allah.” at” is, it triggers a massive retaliation encompass them like the walls of a to come by, there would be plenty of of ostriches.” Sura 9:14: “Make war on them: Allah from the forces of the king of the North. pavilion. When they cry out for help shade in paradise, the result of a tree so Sura 52:17: “They shall recline on will chastise them at your hands and The king of the North we have long they shall be showered with water as large that, according to Muslim tradi- couches ranged in rows. To dark-eyed humble them. He will grant you victory understood to be the leader of a federa- hot as molten brass, which will scald tion, it would take a horseman 100 years houris [virgins] we shall wed them.” over them and heal the spirit of the tion of nations formed from a resurrec- their faces. Evil shall be their drink, dis- to ride past it. Sura 55:54-77: “Therein are bashful faithful.” tion of the Roman Empire. mal their resting-place.” Maybe you’re thinking: I thought virgins whom neither man nor jinnee Sura 8:12: “Allah revealed his will to Is the current European Union that The Koran contains many more Muslims weren’t allowed to drink [desert spirits, from which we get the the angels, saying: ‘I shall be with you. resurrection of the Roman Empire? I graphic passages that describe the tor- alcohol. word genie] will have touched before Give courage to the believers. I shall don’t think so. For one thing, it appears ments of hell, but you get the picture. That’s true, of course, unless you’re ... Virgins as fair as corals and rubies cast terror into the hearts of the infidels. to have far too many nations already in They graphically show the differences Saddam Hussein or one of his sons or ... Virgins chaste and fair . . . Dark- Strike off their heads, strike off the very it or planning to join it shortly. between the merciful and loving God of some other Muslim ruler. Muslims eyed virgins, sheltered in their tents . . .” tips of their fingers!’ ” Will this prophesied resurrection aren’t supposed to drink alcohol in this In the hadiths, the sayings of come out of the European Union? I def- the Bible and the nature of the god Spheres to influence whom Muhammad envisioned and wor- life, though that doesn’t stop some of Muhammad, he goes one step further initely think so. The EU is already eco- shiped, Allah. them from being hypocrites in that and expands the promise of virgins to In Islamic theology the world is nomically unified, working on a Euro- Muhammad’s Allah is a sadist. Since regard—claiming to follow Allah when include a free sex “market” with no divided into two spheres: dar al-Islam, pean constitution to further politically sadism is clearly described in the Koran it suits them and ignoring the Koran limit on the number of sex partners. meaning “the land of Islam,” and dar unify them. as part of Allah’s nature and character, when it interferes with their baser This hadith reads: “Ali reported that al-harb, meaning “the land of the unbe- The Europeans are also working on a we shouldn’t be surprised to see the desires. the Apostle of Allah said, ‘There is in liever [or heretic].” common European military force. Do kind of cruelty practiced that we see in So, even though Muslims are forbid- Paradise a market wherein there will A fundamental aspect of Islamic you think they learned something from much of the Muslim world. den to drink wine in this life, in paradise be no buying or selling, but will con- teaching is that all non-Muslim lands seeing what the U.S. military did in the wine is different. It’s nonintoxicat- sist of men and women. When a man must eventually be absorbed or con- Afghanistan and Iraq? The paradise of the Koran ing, so you don’t get drunk or act stu- desires a beauty, he will have inter- quered by Islam, preferably by peaceful You bet they did. The description Since Muhammad had such a warped pidly, and, best of all, you can drink all course with them’ ” (Al Hadis, Vol. 4, conversion but by force if necessary. here couldn’t better describe the U.S. view of hell, we shouldn’t be surprised you want without becoming sick or get- p. 172, No. 34). This theology and approach perfectly military invasion of Iraq: He “shall that he also had a warped view of heav- ting a hangover. Notice that in that market are both explain what we see in the world. come against him like a whirlwind, with en, or “paradise,” as it’s called in the And, after you drink it, your body men and women. Muslim countries are generally at peace chariots, horsemen, and with many Koran. smells like perfume. In other words, in the Muslim view among themselves, though there are See HOW DOES THE KING, page 39 10 THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 GTA talked a lot about Jesus before it became fashionable Continued from page 5 conservatism blinds them to many tuals and scholars and never felt night in Jamaica in the early 1970s on things. They are unreachable, for they threatened by them. Give that to him. the Jamaica Broadcasting Corp., then are what Eric Hoffer calls “true Ron Dart’s finest work was facili- one of only two radio stations. believers.” tated and encouraged by him when He was regarded as bright, icono- Had Ted Armstrong been allowed Mr. Dart was in the CGI. clastic and controversial. He was to carry on the reformation he began GTA fought against the excesses appealing to the Jamaican personality. in 1974 and had the political scheming in the healing doctrine, triple When he came here for a campaign of Stan Rader and others not succeed- tithing, the place-of-safety doctrine, in 1987, he pulled more than 700 per- ed in 1978, the Worldwide Church of authoritarianism, exclusivism, sons on the day of the funeral for the God would today look more like the church eras, 19-year time cycles The golden age of the church in terms of theological growth and administrative change was in the 1974-1978 period when GTA’s leadership was at a zenith. wife of a Jamaican national hero and CGI and the United Church of God and race. He came a far way theo- the father of a Jamaican national polit- than the Protestant movement it has logically. ical movement! In the 1970s he was a become. He rejected his father’s deempha- household name. The golden age of the church in sis on Jesus and emphasized both the I know only too well about GTA’s terms of theological growth and message and the Messenger. personal foibles. I read the works of administrative change was in the He talked a lot about Jesus long David Robinson, John Tuit, William 1974-1978 period when GTA’s leader- before it became fashionable in the Hinson, William Martin, which were ship was at a zenith. now-Protestant WCG. enough to pry me away from the It was under GTA that such serious But he never flinched from the fun- church, but I was too convinced of the scholars as Lester Grabbe, now a damental truths that God revealed to fundamental doctrines to abandon the highly accredited theologian, George his father, Herbert W. Armstrong. He movement. Geis and Robert Kuhn came to the was loyal to them to his death. fore. WCG reformer Under Ted, men of ability like Ron Correcting the record GTA IN JAMAICA—Garner Ted Armstrong accepts the gift of a carved I have read the most influential Dart, David Antion and Brian Knowles The ultraconservatives who came map of Jamaica from members of the Church of God International on the anti-Armstrong sites on the net. increased their influence, the first two back to power in 1978 after his unjus- island nation on Feb. 14, 1987. With Mr. Armstrong in this photo are Tamla But whatever you say about GTA being significant change agents tified ouster screamed at his “liberal- and Gordy Fisher. Mr. Armstrong also visited the Jamaica CGI brethren you cannot detract from his undoubt- against ministerial abuse and authori- ism.” in 1988. [Photo courtesy Ian Boyne] ed, indubitable contribution to reform- tarianism. Let’s set the record straight, be- ing Armstrongism. Under GTA the Systematic Theol- cause some media reports have it The United Church of God, the CGI, as Living Church of God mem- Every careful historian or analyst of ogy project (STP) was facilitated, rep- wrong: largest ex-WCG body, has a lot to be ber Bob Thiel will tell you, and has the the Armstrong movement must ac- resenting the finest theological docu- GTA was not excommunicated in grateful for in the WCG leadership of greatest opportunity to reach people knowledge that Garner Ted was the ment ever produced by this move- 1978 for moral reasons. Go back to Garner Ted Armstrong. and be effective in taking God’s truth first significant reformer in the World- ment, moving us away from the ob- HWA’s letters. Many of the reforms UCG mem- to the world. wide Church of God. scurantism and eisegesis that had He was ousted for political reasons. bers take for granted were initiated by GTA influenced far more of us than The extremists in the movement characterized former eras. He lost the power struggle with Stan GTA. we realize. will not see this, but then their hyper- GTA was comfortable with intellec- Rader. The UCG is doctrinally close to the His good works shall never die. Of COGs, the ICG has largest percentage of new people Continued from page 5 ing millions of subscribers world- pel to the world is such that the vast should cause us to reevaluate our requires more resources to retrieve it the greater Church of God, its ramifi- wide, there is now not one Church majority of brethren believe it is still mass-media efforts. than it once did. cations will without question affect of God–related group or outreach the best fruit-bearing way to evange- A certain aspect concerning re- And, though the greater church has the church’s course for years to come. that has a magazine with more than lize the nations. sponses, however, either hasn’t been endeavored to plant and water new half a million subscribers. What few realize is that there are considered or is not taken as seriously Last man standing fruit, the aged big-three methods of only around four Church as it should be by the church. the last century simply aren’t doing The primary mass-media methods of God-related groups The question we must explore to the job in the new century. utilized to preach the gospel during out of 300-plus that are accurately gauge the status of current the last almost 70 years have been either using commercial techniques used to carry out “the State of the work magazines, radio and television. They television or have large- work” is: Where does the fruit gath- The death of Garner Ted Arm- sized cable-channel out- ered by the church come from? have constituted the “big three” tech- strong is sad and sobering and should niques engaged by the greater Church reaches. United News, a church newspaper of God to carry out its Matthew 28 Even if a group has a published by the United Church of cause us to reflect on the state of “the commission given by Christ. deep enough pocket to God an International Association, work” within the church. Mr. Arm- I believe GTA’s death signals the afford some commercial gave statistics in its September- strong represented the last reasonably death of the church’s effective use of television, many of the October 2003 issue to indicate that successful use of one of the big-three any of these once successful, but now channels carrying its pro- close to 75 percent of the 200 people methods to bring those with no previ- well-worn, big-three mass-evange- gram can be of the free, it baptized last year were those who ous Church of God background or lism tools. He was the last man who, local, public-access ca- had been previously associated with exposure into the Body of Christ. by virtue of his God-given talents, ble-channels kind. Such the Church of God. I have no doubt that many in the could attract a significant number of channels, though free, The January-February 1999 issue greater Church of God have put their new people to the Church of God have tiny audiences and of the independent Servant’s News sincere hearts and minds into various using the medium of TV. CANADIAN APPEARANCE—Garner Ted inspire extremely few stated that from its inception in 1993 efforts to preach the gospel to the My friends and I have had the op- Armstrong (left) stands with ICG member Alex responses. to the end of 1998 the Global Church world. Their hard work, commitment portunity over the years to visit quite a Nicholson in Toronto, Ont., Sept. 9, 2000. As of September 2003, of God (which split in 1998, with most [Photo courtesy Alex Nicholson] and willingness to sacrifice are not few Church of God groups and fel- the rough-total number members forming the Living Church questioned. lowships. The Intercontinental Church of channels the four of God) had only 45 out of 605 bap- However, whether we like it or not, Radio, for a good part of the last biggest television outreaches com- tisms (8 percent) where the person of God, founded by GTA, was one of techniques and technology once several churches we visited. century, was the effective means by bined were on was 271. Of that total baptized was “new” to the church. Whether visiting regular church or which the church took the gospel to at least 227 of the TV channels were From my personal experience, I dynamically used to bring the good holy-day services or campaigns held the world. Over the years millions of the public-access type. conclude that such relatively small per- news of salvation to the world no by the ICG, we noticed a common were exposed to Bible truth through Even though yearly-response num- centages of baptisms where the person longer are as effective and efficient as pattern. The ICG seemed to have the radio, and many were led to repen- bers quoted by some groups may is new to the Church of God is true of they were in their heyday. largest percentage, and biggest raw tance and conversion. seem encouraging, further evaluation many other fellowships in the church. The church must change its evan- number, of new people attending its Today, however, responses to radio shows that on a total cost-per- Much of the fruit harvested today gelistic strategies if it hopes to meet services compared with any we’ve the challenges of spreading the gospel seen in other fellowships. in the 21st century. The number of new folks at the Mr. Armstrong represented the last successful use of a big-three It is imperative that, if it is to sur- ICG’s largest Feast of Tabernacles site vive and thrive, the Church of God in Florida especially struck us last method to bring those with no previous Church of God must adapt to a changing world so it year. background or exposure into the Body of Christ. can powerfully bring it God’s time- Well, what about the rest of the less message. Church of God? Don’t some of them So, you may wonder, what are the have major mass-evangelism efforts? evangelism used within the greater response basis TV’s effectiveness is by the Worldwide Church of God new and emerging ideas and evange- Let’s take a brief look at the status Church of God are only the tiniest dwindling. splinter groups is from the field plant- fraction of what they were during this ed and watered years ago by the pro- listic methods the church should pur- and fruit of the big-three evangelistic Reaping where others planted methods still used by a majority of the medium’s heyday. ductive evangelistic efforts of the sue and develop for “the work”? church. The global reach and fruits pro- There is no question that Church of WCG during the HWA-GTA years What are the tools available for the duced in years past by church-spon- God groups continue to receive a cer- (pre-1986). Church of God: The Next Generation Status of big three sored “televangelism” are known to tain amount of responses utilizing the Part of the difficulty the church is to boldly preach the gospel where no We’ll first quickly tackle the sta- most folks even with a cursory big-three methods of evangelism. in is that this field has been pretty well one has gone before? tus of magazines in the church. knowledge of Church of God history. Total responses, however, from such picked over by the current splits. The That, as they say, is a whole ’nother Though the Worldwide Church of Suffice it to say that TV’s perceived tools are at best only a shadow of fruit remaining in this field is steadily topic and one I hope will be explored God once had a magazine number- glory in effectively carrying the gos- what they were. This fact alone shrinking, is harder to come by and in a future article in THE JOURNAL. Sept. 30, 2003 THE JOURNAL 11 What would have happened had GTA returned to the WCG? Continued from page 5 beliefs and prac- der’s loyalty, and so followed his ily of churches, past and present, John Trechak’s Ambassador Report. tices. advice. ever approached anywhere near his Most readers of THE JOURNAL would Mr. Rader, I suspect, hated both league. disagree with most of its content, Inquiring minds GTA’s popularity and the threat GTA particularly many of the letters. By then the posed to his own power. It seems to Worth a chapter Yet many within the offshoot widely held be- have been Mr. Rader who encour- In both the ordinary usage of the churches access it regularly, partly be- lief in the Be- aged people to believe—incorrect- word, and the sociological sense, cause it is often the first with the news; ginning of the ly—that GTA was behind the 1978 Garner Ted Armstrong was a charis- many of its informants are members End in 1972 had receivership, and it was Joseph W. matic leader. In any psychological of assorted Churches of God. been shown to Tkach who, working with Mr. study of guru figures, he would easi- I learned from Missing Dimen- be mistaken. An Rader, was a bulwark of strength to ly merit a full chapter. sion on Aug. 25 that Mr. Armstrong atmosphere of HWA in those months. And so, per- The question being asked now had entered a hospital. There were doubt prevailed haps, the future was formed. that he has died is: What will happen progress reports whenever new about the former What could have happened if to his church? information became available. GTA certainties. Garner Ted Armstrong had returned My book The New Believers has a came out of intensive care; he was People—minis- to the Worldwide Church of God and chapter on what happens “After the understandably weak but cogent; he ters and other eventually succeeded his father? As Prophet Dies.” was expected to go home in a few members—were C.S. Lewis once wrote, “We are My sociological model suggests days. asking questions. never given to know what might four major possibilities: continua- Then suddenly he became danger- APPEARANCE PREP—Garner Ted Armstrong pre- Are women have been.” tion, dissolution, reform/revolution ously ill again. pares for a personal appearance before members of really harlots if and schism, following an initial peri- the public c. 1974. [Envoy photo] they put on a Blaming Garner Ted od of transition. Gross offense dab of lipstick? A further group of people that is In GTA’s case, of course, many At this point a couple of letters Meredith was a major player. Prob- Are members of the church really antagonistic to GTA includes the such changes had occurred before appeared on the site from people ably most powerful of all, Stanley breaking the commandment against ones who recently wrote to Mr. his death. who were delighted about his condi- Rader was the éminence grise idolatry, as GTA himself had written Rumney’s Missing Dimension site. In 1996, when large numbers had tion and looked forward with undis- behind HWA. in The Good News way back in They are former members who left Worldwide because of the guised glee to the day he would meet But, love him or loathe him, this 1964, if they seek medical assistance believe they were badly scarred by changes in doctrine since HWA’s his Maker and have to account for was GTA’s decade, from his first for an illness? their time in WCG, and they blame death, and large numbers had left the himself. They were dancing on his suspension in 1971 to his final ouster Such matters had caused people to GTA. CGI because of GTA, I corre- grave before he was even dead. in 1978. be disfellowshipped; they were To paraphrase their own words sponded with him. I found this grossly offensive and I once read that during GTA’s hugely important in the personal, briefly, they scrimped and saved to appallingly insensitive to his family longest period of suspension, when practical lives of members. send in their tithes and were casti- No plan for succession at this traumatic time for them. his voice wasn’t heard on The World GTA was looking at the theology gated for not giving enough while Among other questions, I asked I broke my usual rules of academ- Tomorrow, WCG income plummet- of the church as well. The Sys- they watched GTA acting like a him if he had made any plans for a ic distance and wrote a letter that ed by 40 percent before he was al- tematic Theology Project (a manu- playboy, gambling in Las Vegas, fly- smooth succession in his own said in part that, yes, GTA had his church, perhaps to one of his sons. sins, but I have mine, and you have He replied that there were other yours, and I for one don’t know how It was GTA’s golden voice, his powerful delivery of ministers in the CGI who could take God rates them, but I’m certainly not up the TV ministry (as indeed they going to cast the first stone. his father’s message on Radio Luxembourg, that did after he left), but that “none of Mr. Rumney posted my letter Sept. my sons are in any way being 15 a few hours before Garner Ted introduced me to the WCG in the mid-1960s. ‘groomed’ to succeed me in any Armstrong died. fashion whatsoever.” lowed back. (I’ve mislaid the source script of several hundred pages in a ing the church’s jet for the fun of it, (Now, seven years later, specula- A step back for this; if anyone can confirm it, I’d loose-leaf binder, copies of which living in considerable luxury. tion arises that Mark Armstrong Additional responses later ap- be grateful.) went to all WCG ministers) was the All of this may be true, but it ne- might step into his father’s shoes peared, both for and against my It was Garner Ted Armstrong’s first attempt to systematize in one glects to mention that when GTA after all.) stance. I won’t detail these here; golden voice, his powerful delivery document the church’s beliefs. was pushing hard-line practices in Interestingly, in reference to the anyone interested can read them on of his father’s message on Radio Initially, according to GTA, his the WCG he was following the party doctrinal changes in the WCG after the site. Luxembourg, that introduced me, father not only knew about the STP line established by HWA and others. his father’s death, GTA also told me: Instead, at JOURNAL publisher Dix- along with perhaps millions of oth- but approved it. When he rebelled against such, he “I doubt very much, if anything on Cartwright’s request I’m stepping ers, to the WCG in the mid-1960s. But the STP team had liberalized was slapped down and chucked out. were to happen to me such as com- back and taking a brief look at the Among the many senior ministers several doctrines, and, when it was Of course, he was by no means the plete incapacitation or death, that the significance of Garner Ted Arm- who left the WCG for a variety of eventually published in three-ring only evangelist in the church living a CGI would change its doctrines. For strong and the range of responses to reasons during the 1970s, there were notebooks, the conservatives in the comfortable life. Mr. Rader’s salary these past 18 years, I have pointed him in his life, which clearly influ- some who left because of GTA’s church reacted strongly against it. in the late 1970s was $200,000; his people directly to Jesus Christ, urged ence the responses to his death. alleged personal behavior or how And they won. house was worth more than $1 mil- them never to follow a man, and My Ph.D. thesis is mainly about HWA dealt with it. But there were Many factors lay behind GTA’s lion. Other WCG ministers had com- have seen, even through the trauma the events since Herbert Arm- many others who stuck by him— ouster from his father’s church, but mitted offenses, repented and been of this past year, how many leaders strong’s death, in 1986, to the pres- either pragmatically, believing he his liberalizing of doctrines was one reinstated. and how many families there are in ent. Initially I intended there to be was the church’s greatest asset, or of the most important. The clash Though in no way do I condone the CGI who will staunchly remain one introductory chapter covering because they accepted his repen- between two strong personalities— the behavior that got GTA into trou- with the ‘faith once delivered to the the beliefs and history up to 1986. tance and practiced active forgive- father and son—was another. ble, I do find it remarkable that in saints’ as they have learned it and This has grown into three chap- ness, or just because they liked the Once GTA was gone, HWA, with spite of the publicity he was able to who will not veer off into some other ters, totaling 35,000 words, with one guy. the support of senior ministers who set up not just one but two churches. doctrinal path.” full chapter on the 1970s. Ted Armstrong, it seems, was a had been most opposed to GTA, At its height the Church of God In- That was obviously written before Even with the vast amount I’ve thoroughly likable person. One could delight in the fact that the ternational, founded in 1978, had GTA and the CGI parted company. read both from and about that WCG evangelist was quoted as say- church’s traditional booklets were around 100 churches in the United But, so far as I can see as an out- decade—HWA’s books, booklets ing, “Ted can charm the rattle off a “back to full length.” GTA, once heir States alone and around 5,000 mem- side observer, he was right: There and coworker letters, published and snake.” to the throne of the WCG, was out of bers altogether (including children). appear to be few if any doctrinal dif- unpublished personal accounts, Many years later, when I began the picture. I don’t know how many members ferences between the CGI, the ICG, other books (by David Robinson, writing about the WCG, I inter- the Intercontinental Church of God the Churches of God Outreach Min- Marion McNair, John Tuit, Stanley viewed senior figures in the offshoot Unconverted seats and the GTA Evangelistic Association istries, Christian Educational Min- Rader, etc.), and interviews I’ve con- churches, people who had worked I understand that, after their final have, but according to their Web sites istries and other churches and min- ducted with people who were there alongside GTA in the 1960s and blazing row in 1978, Herbert and they have 25 ministers and 134 con- istries that have stemmed from at the time—I know I cannot claim 1970s. Almost without exception, Garner Ted never met again. That gregations associated with them. Garner Ted’s version of his father’s to have a full understanding of though they hadn’t seen him for must have been a source of great That’s pretty impressive, consid- teaching. everything that went on in that most years, they spoke fondly of him. sadness for Ted Armstrong. At ering Garner Ted had to start from troublesome decade. One was critical of his managerial HWA’s funeral his son and former scratch and for the second time. The post-GTA future I doubt if anyone can, including— skills—“He was a very mercurial heir was relegated to the unconvert- Whatever his faults, GTA could So what about the future, post- perhaps especially—those who were man who never really had any inter- ed seats. draw people with his message. GTA? Is there any possibility that, involved in it, for they will in- est in the details of operations . . . He According to one church leader I unusually for ex-WCG churches, evitably have a personally biased was very capable; like many people interviewed, “Herbert Armstrong, A league of his own they might come back together viewpoint; they will have been in who are an instant read, quick-wit- before he died, said, ‘I’m choosing So where does this brief glance at again? one faction or another or caught ted, he lacked the patience to Joseph Tkach because I know he reactions to Garner Ted Armstrong Organizationally, I think probably somewhere between all of them. become profound; that, I think, is the will protect this church against Ted leave us? not. As always, memories linger of (If you doubt the inevitability of problem”—but then emphasized Armstrong.’ ” My source then ironi- He was clearly a complex and which ministers left and which ones personal bias coloring an account, “He’s a very, very pleasant man.” cally added that GTA “was the one contradictory character. His personal stayed at different times and for dif- just compare the books about the Another told me, “Ted is a great person who didn’t attack” HWA. behavior can certainly not be ex- ferent reasons, and such memories 1978 State of California receivership man, and great men tend to have Indeed, we have good reason to cused on the grounds that as God’s may inspire bad feeling. by Mr. Rader and Mr. Tuit!) great sins.” believe that GTA would have wel- Chosen Minister he was above nor- But at the grassroots level I’d As a scholar, I simply have to Perhaps this is not the most ring- comed a return to the WCG, and mal moral restrictions. guess there will be considerable con- accept all accounts, however contra- ing endorsement of a man of God, even that HWA would have liked He probably had many of the tact, both socially and in sharing dictory, as equally valid personal but it shows an acceptance of the him to, but Stanley Rader was im- other faults that people have each other’s Feasts of Tabernacles— viewpoints of events. reality of his failings while display- placably opposed to it and blocked ascribed to him. and, because of the doctrinal close- ing a genuine warmth for Ted the any attempt at a rapprochement. Yet even some of the letters to ness, there will probably continue to One name stands out man. Although Mr. Rader claimed to Missing Dimension have empha- be some sharing of literature. In these accounts, through nearly There were others who were have been the devoted servant of sized that as a person he was warm But I doubt that one figure will all of the decade of the ’70s, one opposed to him because of the HWA, the consensus both then and and friendly, and, as the second- emerge to draw together the various name stands out: Garner Ted Arm- changes he brought about in the now is that all too often the tail was ranking person in the WCG, happily strands of the GTA branch of the strong. WCG in the mid-1970s when, for a wagging the dog. joined in with informal social activi- Worldwide family of churches. Yes, HWA was still at the top and fairly brief period, he had a position By this stage in his life HWA was ties such as sports and music. And I regret that I now shall never at times still had a huge influence on of real power and was able to liber- distrustful of many of his ministers, I doubt that as a preacher anyone meet Garner Ted Armstrong to inter- his church, and, yes, Roderick C. alize some of the more conservative but he believed utterly in Mr. Ra- else in the extended Worldwide fam- view him face to face. 12 THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 Evangelist’s son says church will continue his father’s work Continued from page 1 Home manager, estimated as many as quarters two days later). the days after his death listed two However, some in attendance at the 700 people sat or stood in the chapel books among his writings (apart from Sabbath service said they were in the you prayed with all you had as we did Good-bye, friends here, and fully expected God’s inter- and in other areas of the building church-produced works such as The process of urging Mr. Armstrong to vention. We cannot fully understand while the audio from the service could Mr. Trent delivered the funeral ser- Plain Truth About Child-Rearing), assume many of his father’s responsi- why the healing we begged for was be heard everywhere in the facility. mon, which included an outline of the Mr. Armstrong wrote at least three bilities, including television broad- not granted. But God’s thoughts are Mark Armstrong delivered his plan of God as understood by many books published by outside publish- casting. not our thoughts, and He has plans father’s eulogy, saying he was “one of people in the congregations and min- ing firms. But Mr. Armstrong said the church sometimes that we as mortal humans the foremost teachers and professors istries derived from the Worldwide He wrote The Real Jesus, released will continue to sponsor his father’s cannot see . . . Church of God. in 1977, and Peter’s Story: A New telecasts, including its airing on WGN “I’m in the process of contacting all The service—the two messages and Gospel, in 1978, published by Sheed, in Chicago, Ill. of the area coordinators and leaders a prayer—lasted a little less than an Andrews and McMeel of Kansas City Mr. Armstrong, addressing the Sab- throughout this fine organization you hour. (the latter was revised and rereleased bath-service audience, said, “I know all have helped my dad build. I will be Mr. Trent said the “200 to 300 in 1981 under Mr. Armstrong’s Emer- that you respect and admire my dad looking to them for wisdom and coun- splinter groups” from the Worldwide ald Enterprises label), and a novel, greatly. How could you not?” Church of God owed their “core Churchill’s Gold, published in 1988 by sel. Thank God for the fine gentlemen Making a difference who have unselfishly given of them- Tudor Commu- selves during this most recent phase of nications, New In his Sabbath sermon Mr. Trent my dad’s ministry. Thank you all for York, which Mr. described what he considers to be “the the generous support you’ve shown Armstrong wrote most endearing quality” of members my father.” under the pseu- of the Intercontinental Church of donym William God. Near family members Talboy Wright. A trait that he said “typifies” the ICG is that its members are “willing to Mr. Armstrong, 73, was laid to rest No changes Sept. 18 in Gladewater Memorial forgive.” Park, off U.S. Highway 80 between Mark Arm- “They say that of the 250 to 300 fel- Gladewater and Big Sandy, Texas, strong and Mr. lowship groups out there, we’re all the four miles down the road from the for- Trent also both same,” he said. mer campus of Ambassador College. spoke at the Sab- “We have the Sabbath. We have the His grave lies next to a huge old bath service on holy days. We tithe. live-oak tree near the graves of mem- Sept. 20 at ICG “There may be a few differences bers of the Roy Hammer family. headquarters, in about the place of safety and about the Roy Hammer was the father-in-law Flint, south of seven church eras. of Garner Ted Armstrong. Roy’s son Tyler. “But I’m here to tell you that there Buck (who was in attendance at the Mr. Armstrong is one very important difference. funeral and brief graveside service) INTERCONTINENTAL LEADERS—A ranking member of the board of the said that “we here at headquarters in “The Intercontinental Church of was the donor in the early 1950s of the Intercontinental Church of God, after the passing of his father, Garner Ted Tyler intend to carry this work and my God took on the nature of its leader, original parcel of land that became the Armstrong, Sept. 15, is Mark Armstrong (left photo) of Flint, Texas. The father’s message forward as long as and I can assure you when he breathed central area of the campus of Ambas- younger Mr. Armstrong here delivers a brief message at ICG headquarters God provides the strength and sup- his last breath on that hospital bed sador College, which began near Big in Flint the Sabbath of Sept. 20, the first Sabbath after the death of the ICG port. There will be no—capital N cap- over in Tyler, Texas, he had no ani- Sandy in 1964. founder. Right photo: At that Sabbath service, Cecil Reece of the Tyler area ital O—changes in doctrine or policy. mosity against any man, because he Mr. Armstrong’s interment came (left) and George Trent of Princeton, W.Va., visit. Mr. Reece is a longtime The Sabbath, the holy days and the had in him the capacity to forgive.” after a funeral attended by an estimat- Church of God member. Mr. Trent is the ICG elder who delivered the main true doctrines of God’s church will Mr. Trent mentioned Israel’s watch- ed more than 600 people at Croley message at Mr. Armstrong’s funeral in Gladewater Sept. 18 and the sermon continue to be honored and observed.” man, prophesied in Ezekiel 33. Funeral Home in Gladewater with at the first Sabbath service at headquarters. [Photos by Dixon Cartwright] After noting that the Armstrong “Mr. Armstrong was the watch- ICG elder George Trent of Princeton, family is “shocked, incredulous, stu- man,” he said. “Mr. Armstrong is still W.Va., officiating. pefied” because of his father’s demise, the watchman. Mr. Armstrong, in my Mr. Armstrong is survived by his of the misunderstood truths of God in teachings” to Garner Ted Armstrong Mr. Armstrong noted that some fellow eyes, will always be the watchman.” wife, the former Shirley Hammer, this time.” and his father, Herbert W. Armstrong. ICG members have urged him to step He concluded with a warning to sons Mark, David and Matthew, five Garner Ted, said his son, could “get Mark Armstrong encouraged into his father’s shoes. “grievous wolves.” grandchildren, and a sister, Dorothy people to look into their own hearts Church of God members not to let his But “I hope you’ll understand when “This church is solid,” Mr. Trent Mattson of Sun City West, Ariz. and look into their Bibles.” father’s work “be in vain.” I say his shoes are huge and too big for said, so “all you wolves that intend to Pallbearers were Mr. Armstrong’s He said that anyone who had been He ended his message with the me,” he said. “For now I’ll do my best cover yourselves up in sheep’s cloth- three sons, Mark, David and Matthew; “out of touch” with Mr. Armstrong words Mr. Armstrong had pronounced to step up to the plate as it’s required ing, you just forget it. The work of Mark Petkovich of Austin, Texas; over the past several years had at the end of thousands of radio broad- and appropriate.” God will continue as it is until Jesus Chester Roberson of Frankston, Texas; “missed his very best work.” casts, “Good-bye, friends.” Mr. Armstrong said his father’s Christ returns because we’re built on a and Earl Timmons of Lexington, Ky. Mark said his father “was a wonder- “beautiful sermons, books and televi- solid foundation, and that foundation The service took place in the chapel ful dad” and “a romantic and loving GTA early history sion programs will always be made is the Rock.” of the mortuary, which could accom- husband to my sweet mother.” He was Mr. Armstrong was born Feb. 9, available” through the church and the modate about 200 seated persons. “a disciplinarian, but was forgiving.” 1930, in Portland, Ore. He served in Garner Ted Armstrong Evangelistic Contact information However, many others sat or stood in Mark Armstrong departed from the U.S. Navy on an aircraft carrier Association. The Armstrong family receives mail other rooms, hallways and a lobby his prepared text to read a message during the Korean War. “My dad’s sickness and now his at the Garner Ted Armstrong Evan- throughout the facility, which is a for- of condolence and remembrance He entered Ambassador College in death have brought us close to God,” gelistic Association, 17444 Highway mer residence converted into a mortu- from family friend Robert Kuhn of Pasadena, the school founded by his he said. “Now let’s stay there.” 155 S., Flint, Texas 75762, U.S.A. ary in the mid-’90s. Pasadena, Calif. (which he also read father, in 1956. Mr. Armstrong noted that the E-mail messages to the family and Bubba Smith, Croley Funeral at Sabbath services at ICG head- Although newspaper obituaries in church’s area coordinators and other church may be sent in care of Chris leaders, “all of them, have pledged Cumming at sunshiner@worldnet. their loyalty to me,” and “I take that att.net. very humbly and solemnly.” See also “Garner Ted Armstrong in At one point Mr. Armstrong re- Hospital With Pneumonia,” THE JOUR- Woman escorted out after attempt ferred to himself “and the other minis- NAL, Aug. 31. ters,” then quickly corrected himself, See also tributes to and comments to address Garner Ted Armstrong funeral referring instead to himself “and the about Mr. Armstrong in articles begin- ministers,” an apparent indication he ning on pages 3 and 5 of this issue and LADEWATER, Texas—One “She just had something on her briefly read the scriptures that were does not consider himself to be an in letters to the editor, beginning on of the guests at the funeral, on mind she wanted to announce and used on her mind,” Mr. Havir told THE elder or evangelist. page 2. GSept. 18, of Garner Ted Arm- extremely poor judgment in wanting JOURNAL. “The three of us listened to strong was escorted from Croley to discuss it at the funeral,” he said. her for a short time. Once we got the Funeral Home when she attempted to The woman turned out to be a gist of what was on her mind, the speak at the conclusion of the service Church of God member from Illinois minister from Intercontinental wrote in the mortuary’s chapel. who had traveled here to visit a rela- down her name and again offered to George Trent of Princeton, W.Va., tive and to attend Mr. Armstrong’s talk with her in the future.” had concluded his message with a funeral and attempt to make an an- The scriptures, concerning Pass- prayer when a woman began walk- nouncement. over and the Days of Unleavened ing up the aisle and asking if she “She had attended the Worldwide Bread, were from Deuteronomy 16. could say something. Church of God in her youth,” Mr. The scriptures she wished to read At that point some men escorted Havir said. “I believe she has family “had nothing to do with Mr. Arm- her from the building and the proces- that attends the Intercontinental strong or the funeral,” Mr. Havir sion of guests by the casket began as Church of God in another state, and I said. “It was a doctrinal matter. Like scheduled. know her aunt in another part of Texas I said, she just used poor judgment.” Dave Havir, pastor of the Church who attends the United Church of God. After the ICG minister “was fin- of God Big Sandy, was present at the She came from Illinois to see her aunt.” ished handling the matter,” said Mr. funeral and, when he saw what hap- When Mr. Havir approached the Havir, “I asked where she was pened, walked outside the mortuary woman outside the funeral home, an parked and I escorted her to her pick- and talked with the woman. elder from the ICG (which Mr. Arm- up truck. We talked briefly at her “I went outside to see if I could strong founded) was already talking vehicle. I found out that she was help,” Mr. Havir said. “My main con- with her. staying in the home of people I cern was that this woman might try to “He stressed to her that the funeral know. I told her that I would be say something critical about Mr. Arm- service was not the appropriate time happy to talk with her, and I invited REST IN PEACE—Garner Ted strong, and I wanted to help maintain for her to speak up,” said Mr. Havir. her to church on the Sabbath.” Armstrong was laid to rest Sept. 18 the dignity of a funeral service.” Mr. Havir was present when an- The woman attended Sabbath ser- beside a huge live-oak tree in But, after conversing with the other ICG member joined the group vices with the Church of God Big Gladewater Memorial Park. Visiting woman, Mr. Havir decided she was and asked the woman what she had Sandy two days later and a brunch at the grave site Sept. 19 are Linda not attempting to say anything that wanted to say. the church building that Sunday Cartwright of Big Sandy, Texas (left could be considered critical. “The lady opened her Bible and morning. in above photo), and Connie Evans of Tulsa, Okla. [Photos by Gary Vance] Sept. 30, 2003 THE JOURNAL 13 Not many know the real story behind the events of 1978 Continued from page 5 Body of Christ, the true Church of In 1978, when Ted Armstrong was beside his father during his dad’s last firmly believe, in the same spiritual then increasingly becoming the dom- God at large. going through one of his greatest days alive and that he, Ted, should organism, the same “Body of inant voice of The World Tomorrow, struggles, resulting in his separation have been the person to carry on the Christ,” that makes up the true the one-half-hour daily program. Australian visit from the Worldwide Church of God work of the Worldwide Church of Church of God. By the late 1950s Ted was doing In 1961, after we had been in Aus- and his own father, I can thankfully God. virtually all the radio work, with his tralia for less than a year, Ted, who say I was one of the few who worked After all, it was his work that in a Remained friends father recording only an occasional was the director of the overseas diligently in an effort to bring father dramatic way had been instrumental I loved and respected Ted for more Sunday program. work, visited us in the Sydney office. and son together in the hopes of rec- in the growth and development of the than 65 years. Though Ted may have Ted’s radio ministry was powerful While there he had a heavy and onciling the differences. Worldwide Church. bugged me occasionally along the and effective. Requests for visits by full schedule of work including the We cannot second-guess God as to way—and I am sure I bugged him as trained ministers that were received production of several radio programs Trumped-up charges why things worked out as they did. well—it was never essentially over at headquarters in Pasadena, Calif., at a local recording studio, but he Few know the whole and real However, we can and should second- doctrinal matters, and we always increased in volume. Those of us took the time to come to our modest story of the events that transpired at guess and criticize the carnal and cor- remained friends. who were field ministers were chal- Every time I saw Ted, whether in a lenged to keep up with making per- Tyler restaurant or at the airport or sonal visits in response to these re- Doris and I still find it hard to believe any other place, we gave each other a quests, and local church groups made hug and exchanged very pleasant steady and rapid growth. that Garner Ted Armstrong is no greetings. A powerful voice for God, wit- longer among the living. Doris and I still find it hard to nessing to the masses and resulting in believe that Garner Ted Armstrong is regular growth in church member- no longer among the living. We will ship, was speaking out. home for an evening and dinner with that time, nor of the trivial and rupt actions of men. surely miss him! And the powerful and dynamic our family. trumped-up charges leveled against Garner Ted Armstrong can now And our love, best wishes and sin- voice and personality at the very Ted was a friend to many of us. He Ted, and I don’t believe the whole say, as the apostle Paul said, that he cere condolences are extended to source of this burgeoning work was was an associate and fellow worker story needs to be told now. has finished his course. He has Shirley, Mark, David and Matthew that of Garner Ted Armstrong. to some of us. But before God I can honestly fought his fight. He has traveled his and families. We wish them well as Many thousands of members in The road that we as Christians say that I remained Ted’s friend dur- road through life, and he awaits the they continue in the footsteps of the scattered Church of God groups have all traveled has been at times ing those troubled days, and later words of his Master, Lord and Savior Garner Ted Armstrong. today first heard the voice of Ted as difficult, always full of challenges Ted thanked me several times for in issuing the final decree. I believe the world has lost a pow- the very beginning of their personal and personal struggles and quite fre- doing so. Even though we were not working erful voice that cried out and spared conversion process that brought quently unpredictable. But travel that I have long believed and have told side by side in the same organization not in preaching a message of hope them to repentance and receiving the road, with its ups and down, we have many people that Ted Armstrong during the last years of Garner Ted in a dying world, offering a way to a Holy Spirit, placing them in the all done. should have been allowed to be Armstrong’s ministry, we were, I better tomorrow. More letters from our readers

Continued from page 4 ple Mount Faithful movement and ing responses from several, and God WCG ministers and later by two . . . this moment bewildered and seeking pocrisy and national sins and think that mention that I’m a Christian member has used THE JOURNAL and me and my ministers [of a WCG derivative]. He help but do not know whom to trust. “God bless[ing] America” is a per- of it who was deported for my personal experiences in the church to had concluded (based on his experi- THE JOURNAL is making this possible. manent state of affairs like doctrine. beliefs. help some who appealed to me for ences) that he had lost his salvation Those who contact us soon realize Vic Singh One Israeli son (about 30) was help in understanding what has hap- when he ran across my article in THE who and what we are and that they can Fresh Meadows, N.Y. explaining to his mom and dad about pened to them. JOURNAL. trust us not to mislead them. I even heard from people I knew God’s Spirit in me was able to America the beautiful Christian Zionists, and they were all I tell people out front that I cannot impressed. I loved the opportunity to back in the ’50s and ’60s while work- assure him that he had not lost his sal- I’ve just returned from traveling solve their problems for them but that become all things to all men, in this ing at Radio Church of God head- vation (we had an extremely profitable for just over two weeks across this God will guide me in helping them case Jewish and Israeli, to help plant quarters in Pasadena. One gentleman conversation). He is now on the road great nation of Manasseh (Menashe find the solutions but that they are the some scriptural seeds for God to wondered if I recalled corresponding to spiritual recovery. in Hebrew). Praise God for letting me ones who must solve the problems water in His good time. with him in the late ’50s and early At the end of our first telephone continually stand in awe of His great with guidance from God through the David Ben-Ariel ’60s when the church did not have conversation (we have had two phone creation that was foretold by the contacts), he assured me he received Holy Spirit. Toledo, Ohio local congregations and people prophets. sought help from headquarters via more help from me in 45 minutes than God is not playing games with us. Along the way, at various national More help correspondence. he had received from all others over a He offers us salvation—eternal life— parks, whenever I heard an Israeli I am personally very thankful to In spite of the thousands with 25-year period. in His family. accent I started speaking with people THE JOURNAL and editor Dixon Cart- whom I corresponded, I did recall his The response received confirms This is real. It is time to cut through in Hebrew and we’d enjoy a friendly wright for printing my letter to the letters. what I have believed and solidifies the the religious confusion and the hurt but brief conversation in which I editor in the March 2003 issue and Another response received was reason my wife and I began the Living and disillusionment and get on track would mention “We the People Are my article on “what counts with God” from Ontario, Canada, from a person God Ministry, and that is that there are for the eternal Kingdom of God. Manasseh” (www.britam.org), men- in the April issue. who has been in the church for 25 many people scattered all over this Bill Glover tion Gershon Salomon and the Tem- I received very good and encourag- years. He was traumatized by two earth for whom Christ died who are at Eugene, Ore.

AMBASSADOR DAYS— We talked about why we Right photo: Three young Ambassador College stu- dents, David Jon Hill (left), can’t get together Garner Ted Armstrong and Norman Smith, fellowship Continued from page 5 I’ve thought of his comment during the reception for alongs with the students. many times since then. Ted be- incoming freshman stu- He loved sports, including bas- lieved he played a part, along dents in the old Ambassa- ketball, handball, hunting, fishing with God’s Spirit, in the calling dor College library building and flying airplanes. process and building of the spiri- in Pasadena, Calif., in 1953. He had the ability to focus on tual church. So seeing the divi- Below photo: Mr. Arm- sions that once were one church strong and three other one task at a time and do an excel- musicians lead a sing-along lent job. really bothered him. I watched Ted’s broadcasts on the Ambassador Col- We will also remember these lege campus in Pasadena things about Mr. Armstrong, but grow from radio to TV and into c. 1974. From left: Lee Pet- they are not what we will remem- an audience of millions that in- tijohn, Mr. Armstrong, Jim ber most about him. spired the growth in circulation of Thornhill and Mark Arm- Over the years we went our The Plain Truth to more than 8.5 strong. [Right photo cour- separate ways and saw each other million copies a month in its hey- tesy Doris Cole; below only infrequently. The last time day in the ’70s. photo from The Envoy] Ted and I had time for a conver- We will remember Garner Ted sation was after he officiated at most for his speaking out, for giv- Betty Cunningham’s funeral in ing this world the real gospel and Hawkins, Texas, a couple of years announcing the coming world ago. government that will bring life to We talked then about the mem- a dying world. bers of the various Churches of I’ll remember Garner Ted Arm- God in attendance at the service. strong most for his unique way of Garner Ted said: “Ellis, it’s too presenting urgently the message bad we can’t all get together . . .” of the Bible with his powerful I said: “Well, you know why voice and personality, with God we can’t get together.” using him to broadcast seeds of He said: “I know. It’s because truth that resulted in many thou- the leaders [of the Church of God sands being called into the spiri- groups] keep us apart.” tual church. 14 THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 COG ladies discuss their favorite female Bible characters Continued from page 1 treating it nat- After the music the speakers were enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and fellow- urally.” She as follows: ship the rest of the evening. gave several Rebecca Blevins of Fort Wayne, On Sabbath morning the ladies had pointers on Ind., spoke on “focusing on the center breakfast and were greeted by Aggie fighting malig- line.” She showed how people’s lives Jacques of Brevard, N.C., who acted nancies tend to focus on wrong things and not as mistress of ceremonies for the day. through foods on Jesus and how He should be a per- After the opening prayer by Pat and juicing as son’s focal point. Morgan of Memphis, Tenn., the wom- well as mak- Patsy Adams of Somerville, Tenn., en joined their voices with a few wor- ing available spoke on “finding your place in the Body ship songs, and Mrs. Beam introduced cancer pam- of Christ through spiritual gifts.” By special music by herself and other solo phlets and understanding one’s spiritual gifts, she vocalists Rhonda Oprean of Hillsboro, handouts. said, one can understand other people. Mo., and June Felix of Alabaster, Ala. Rhonda Aggie Jacques presented “Why Peggy Wooten of Pelham, Ala., Oprean spoke Do We Allow It?” She gave the read a dedication to Mrs. White and on “Christ’s ladies pointers on how to detect read exhortations from others and her- sacrifice” and domestic violence and survive it self concerning Mrs. White’s contri- what it should through God’s help. WOMEN’S CONFERENCE butions to Church of God women’s —Here mean to Christians. Closing words conferences. are some of the participants in the She brought a prop “Karen Metcalf [of Carrollton] was recent women’s conference in Birming- showing how lambs The closing speaker was Mrs. recognized for her contribution in ham. Above left: Joanna Carrol of were sacrificed in Wooten, on “honor,” and pointing out serving as Linda’s right hand in these Locust Fork, Ala. (left), and Sondra Old Testament times the difference between honor and obe- conferences also,” Mrs. Beam said. Beam of Tupelo, Miss. Above: Sharon and likened it to dience and that there is no age limit Ledy of Laingsburg, Mich. (left), and Christ’s sacrifice and for one to be a person of honor. Morning speakers Carol Boyer of Perry, Mich., sing for spe- what His blood Thanks and closing statements came from Mrs. Jacques, Mrs. Wooten Mrs. Jacques introduced the speak- cial music. Left: Jenny Baughman of means for His Westchester, Ohio (left), and Judy Post people. and Mrs. Beam. Then the ladies joined ers for the morning session: The responsibility hands in a circle for a dismissal prayer Sharon Ledy of Lainsburg, Mich., of McQueeney, Texas. [Photos courtesy Sondra Beam] then fell on Mrs. by Jenny Baughman of Canton, Ohio. on “love languages” and how to love Beam for a brief dis- “The ladies in attendance were each other to be instruments in God’s “Oh, that You would bless cussion about the ladies’ favorite moved with tears and laughter as they hands. me” from 1 Chronicles female Bible characters. listened to the many Spirit-filled mes- Lanice Shults of Jackson, Tenn., 4:9-10 and “expanding Before the break for the evening, sages,” Mrs. Beam said. spoke on “worship” and being women your territories.” the organizers gave door prizes to “Each lady thoroughly enjoyed after God’s heart. “The ladies then broke everyone and made hand and neck meeting new Christian friends and also Carol Boyer of Perry, Mich., gave the ladies several pointers on massages available. seeing longtime friends in Christ.” spoke on “holes” and filling them with for a wonderful candlelight, elegant “God’s intervention for our safety.” dinner where much spiritual conver- “I’m so full I’m bubbling over,” humility and a personal relationship Music and the center line with God. She is a certified safety and health spe- sation was shared,” Mrs. Beam one participant commented. Judy Post of McQueeney, Texas, cialist and travels all over to help in reported. “On Sunday morning the ladies met Another said, “I could go climb a OSHA (Occupational Safety and for breakfast and joined together again mountain with the Spirit of God that spoke on “kindness, wisdom and Surviving cancer work” and that God wants His people Health Administration) training and their beautiful voices for several I’m filled with.” to have virtue and moral excellence other safety programs. Mrs. Jacques introduced the eve- hymns and then heard special-music “With the unanimous response and character. Raina Shults of Jackson spoke on After a break for lunch, Mrs. “an extreme walk with Jesus” through Jacques welcomed the ladies back, prayer and Bible study, worship, re- Mrs. Wooten read a dedication to Mrs. White and read exhor- then special-music pieces were given pentance, meditation and fasting. tations from others and herself concerning Mrs. White’s con- by Carol Boyer, Sharon Ledy, Linda Raina was the teen speaker of the con- Carter and Lori Kemp. ference. tributions to Church of God women’s conferences. Vicki Calvert of Springville, Ala., God’s intervention spoke on the “power of words” and that Mrs. Jacques introduced the after- one can exercise such power on peo- ning’s speakers: pieces by Carol Boyer and Sharon from the ladies, we will be back next noon’s speakers: ple’s lives positively and negatively. Evelena Goff of Belmont, Miss., Ledy, June Felix and Lori Kemp,” year to have another conference,” said Sharley Pettit of Atkins, Ark., Mrs. Beam spoke on the phrase spoke on “surviving breast cancer and said Mrs. Beam. Mrs. Beam. “So stay tuned.” Writers have discovered that advertising has its advantages Continued from page 1 otherwise be printed because of space tise the man’s products. nal discourses or other opinion articles In that case we either receive per- A: Darlene Warren has been our limitations. Q: Since you ran an advertisement that for various reasons we chose not to mission from the advertiser to edit out advertising lady for about six years Q: Do you have a criterion for topics from an Orthodox Jew as long as he run as an article in the paper. So the potentially libelous material, or we ask now. Not only does Darlene do a that can appear in ads? promoted his product, would you con- writers decided to place their materials him to do such editing himself—or we bang-up job of selling ads, she is also sider running an advertisement from a as ads. simply decline to run the ad. a talented writer. As many of our read- non-Sabbatarian who was promoting Q: What are some reasons that arti- Q: Newspapers generally sell their ers know, Darlene writes a monthly his product instead of his ideas about cles are not printed in THE JOURNAL yet advertisements on almost every page column on page 1 of each CON- the day of worship? appear in CONNECTIONS? throughout their newspaper. Why do NECTIONS section. I’ve heard many A: Yes. If a Baptist wanted to adver- A: Various factors can affect wheth- you group your paid advertisements people say her article is the first thing tise his motel for the Feast of Taber- er an article makes it into print in THE into one section of the paper? they read in the newspaper. So the first nacles, I would have no problem run- JOURNAL. Maybe the topic has recently A: Part of the reason is simply that item those people read is a part of ning his ad. been adequately covered. Maybe the we’ve always done it that way. We had CONNECTIONS. Q: Don’t most advertisements in article doesn’t fit our editorial or tech- grown accustomed to having the ads in Q: What is the purpose of CON- newspapers promote a product or ser- nical style. We may decide an article is a separate section and we haven’t felt a NECTIONS? vice rather than buying space for a let- too long for the available space in a par- need to change that. A: One reason we run ads is to ter or article? ticular issue of THE JOURNAL. Or we Q: For ads, do you charge by the broaden the forum that THE JOURNAL NEWSPAPER—Dixon and Linda A: Yes, but so what? It is not un- may feel that the article is too long for word? provides. Of course another purpose is Cartwright are publishers of THE common for newspaper advertisers to the point the writer is making. A: No, except for classified ads. For to provide THE JOURNAL with another JOURNAL. [Photo by Trey Cartwright] buy space for a letter or article. For It is natural for a newspaper to freely display ads—a display ad is an ad that source of income. Income from sub- example, Herbert Armstrong in Read- edit any news story, editorial or essay for is not a classified ad—we charge by scriptions by itself will not pay for the A: Yes. In general, we run ads from er’s Digest advertised his magazine as a length, clarity and technical style. A space. production of THE JOURNAL. Sabbatarian Christians who are not pro- product, but in newspapers he bought 5,000-word article that someone sub- A full-page ad with 100 words will Q: What is the journalism standard moting a belief in the invalidity of the space for letters, which could be con- mits could end up being, for example, cost an advertiser the same as a full- for the proportion of advertisements in Old or New Testament or the invalidity sidered short articles. 1,500 words when it’s printed. page ad with 7,500 words. a newspaper like THE JOURNAL? How of the law of God or the invalidity of Q: Although you have declined to That’s not the case with ads. An Q: Why are some ads in color? closely does your newspaper adhere to the identity of Jesus as Savior and run certain advertisements, is it easier advertisement can be as many words as A: Because some advertisers realize a standard article-to-ad ratio? Messiah. to place an article in CONNECTIONS than the advertiser wants. they can make their ads more notice- A: Larger newspapers generally try able by printing them in color. We do to sell up to 70 percent of their space for have to make an extra charge for ads advertising, which is also the maximum that are not just black and white. allowed by the U.S. Postal Service if a ‘When we have more pages of ads, we often add more pages Q: Why do some ads include draw- paper wants to keep its periodicals- to THE JOURNAL. This enables us to use more of the fine articles ings and other graphics, yet other ads class postage permit. do not? Seventy percent ads is not practical that may not otherwise be printed because of space limitations.’ A: Well, some advertisers like for a small paper like THE JOURNAL. We graphics, and some do not. Advertisers usually run between 40 and 55 percent can supply their own artwork, or we ads. We have reached as high as about There can be exceptions to our to have it in THE JOURNAL? Q: How much editing do you do to a can add it. We have a 750,000-image 60 percent, although those were 40- guidelines, however. For example, we A: Quite a bit easier. THE JOURNAL submitted advertisement? library of digital clip art available at no page issues, which contained more have run ads from an Orthodox Jew receives many more articles than we A: Most ads run virtually verbatim, extra charge to advertisers. pages than we usually run. who advertised the availability of some have space available. CONNECTIONS can although we look out for misspelled Q: How can a person check on ad- Q: So, the size of CONNECTIONS can small trees that might interest Church expand to accommodate interested words or typographical errors. We also vertising rates in CONNECTIONS and sub- influence the size of THE JOURNAL? of God members of a Hebrew-roots advertisers because it pays its own way. look for material that does not fit our mit an advertisement? A: Yes. When we have more pages persuasion for use during the Feast of Q: Have some people submitted arti- broad guidelines for advertisements. A: Just write Darlene Warren at of advertising, we often add more pages Tabernacles. Even though that ad was cles to THE JOURNAL that have ended up For example, we do not want to partic- [email protected] or 2150 Catalpa to THE JOURNAL. This enables us to use not from a Sabbatarian Christian, we as advertisements in CONNECTIONS? ipate in communication that could libel Rd., Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A., more of the fine articles that may not decided it would be just fine to adver- A: Yes. Some have submitted doctri- somebody. or call her at (903) 636-4470. Connections: MMeemmbbeerr ttooMMeemmbbeerr Issue No. 68 PUBLISHED BY THE JOURNAL: NEWS OF THE CHURCHES OF GOD Sept. 30, 2003 There’s a little weirdness in all of us By Darlene Warren of prophets, angels and the ever- there never seemed to be a year can take on a whole new level of ebrating the Feast in a joyous and IG SANDY, Texas—With the popular two witnesses. when there wasn’t talk about an savagery. harmonious manner. Feast of Tabernacles only During the middle of a sermon at upset, unconverted husband arriving The history of the world revolves If we spend all our time worrying Bdays away, you know what one Feast site I attended, I saw a at the Feast to take his wife home. around different religious systems about why certain brethren feel com- that means. We are all about to be man walk down the aisle, climb the In all those years I never once warring against other religious sys- pelled to dress after a Hebrew tradi- surrounded by people just as weird steps to the stage, and approach the heard of an upset, unconverted wife tems—much like the Churches of tion, we’ll never have enough time as we are. It is a historical fact that podium. arriving at the Feast to force her hus- God today. to confront the women wearing high the Feast attracts, shall we say, the The speaker apparently assumed band to come home. We as brethren need to realize we heels and makeup. Please, let’s get unique among us. the man was there to make a legiti- Women are funny that way; they don’t all think exactly the same way our priorities straight. If we’re not There’s an old saying: It takes all mate announcement of some sort know how to recognize and take (as we were once instructed to do) careful, these women will try to kinds to make the world go round. and surrendered the advantage of a vacation when they and that there is a pretty good commandeer the podium. Well, it doesn’t take all kinds to podium and micro- see one, especially if he took the chance we will be interacting with make the Feast go round, but they phone. kids with him. some folks who may think very dif- Ecclesiastical debates sure can make it a lot more inter- The visitor ferently from us. We find so many important issues esting. commenced to Weirdos in the midst Why don’t we go over some of to deal with at the Feast. Tra- Have you ever been to a Feast site tell everyone The unique among us don’t the tough situations we may have to ditionally, the Feast of Tabernacles that didn’t have a weird person in that God could always come from the outside face during the Feast this year and is a time where we dine out more attendance? If you have, I bet it was raise up “don- world. In more re- see if we can come up with some than usual. A debate among some of a boring eight days. keys” to preach cent years we’ve solutions? the ministry and brethren is whether (If you didn’t encounter any if He wanted seen an ab- To begin with, some brethren we should eat at a restaurant on the unusual people, have you considered to. The man normal attending the Feast this year will be Sabbath or not. that you may have been the one?) proved him- increase wearing clothing and accessories If you believe you should abstain Weird is wonderful; it has a nor- self perfectly in abnor- that are tailored more toward the from eating out on the Sabbath, and malizing effect on the rest of us. It correct, but it didn’t mal behav- Jewish culture. if someone invites you out after ser- puts us at ease knowing that we’re take long before that donkey was ior right here in Not a problem. After all, Jesus vices on the first holy day, what will not the weirdest of the weird. escorted to the door. and amongst our own fellowships. was a Jew. (Of course, I’m not sure you say? (Some people think the office of Of course defining abnormal that if He visited our present-day What you say really isn’t impor- Can donkeys preach? deacon is an antiquated one, but you (weird) is so subjective. What I do is Feast sites He would be dressed the tant. Just make sure you get a rain Throughout the history of the never know when a couple of burly normal, what you do is bizarre. That, same way He was 2,000 years ago.) check. modern-day Feast of Tabernacles ones will come in handy.) brethren, is human nature. When Regardless, these brethren are Why do some people observe the there have been numerous sightings In my early Feast-keeping years you throw religion into the mix it wonderful, peace-loving people cel- See DARLENE’S STORY, page 17

Advertising deadline: Contact Darlene Warren at We’re looking Free Special Report [email protected], 2150 Catalpa Rd., Big Sandy, Texas Sabbath 75755, U.S.A., or (903) 636-4470 to check on the deadline for for Eugene The N-E-W Covenant Singles the current issue and to place your ad today. Walter’s Thesis “F-E-A-S-T!” Connection on Music Send for Your SSC • P.O. Box 647 Please contact Cindy Burson Free Copy Today! Biggs, Calif. 95917, USA at 10758 Highway 155 S., Big THE ROADMAP Sandy, Texas 75755; E-mail E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]; or P. O. Box 4154-F SSC Web Site: call (903) 636-4288. Kansas City, KS 66104 http://www.sabbathsinglesconnection.com/ Church of God Big Sandy

CHURCH ON THE CHURCH ON THE ABCM Perspective TELEPHONE INTERNET A Message to Individual Christians Simply dial 918-222-7103 See details at When prompted, enter www.BigSandyChurch. n Peter’s letter to the brethren scattered the world, but now they are identified as the org Conference Call Code throughout several nations, he reminds people of God. 6289# Service starts at 1 p.m. them that they are a special people. In 1 p.m. Central time every Central time every I Peter pleads with them to not let their Sabbath Sabbath fact they are a new Israel that God has called scattered situation cause them to be distract- The per-minute long- Message available for to be the recipients of His promise to ed from who they are and to let their con- Abraham. This was not to replace the old distance cost to you will streaming or download- duct and actions reflect his identity. depend on your long- ing beginning one hour Israel but it was a new Israel that included “Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pil- distance rate later Gentiles. grims, abstain from fleshly lusts which was He points out that they “are a chosen gen- against the soul, having your conduct honor- eration, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, www.BigSandyChurch.org able among the Gentiles, that when they His own special people,” with a job to do 1-800-946-5545 speak against you as evildoers, they may, by “that you may proclaim the praises of Him your good works which they observe, glorify who called you out of darkness into His TAPE PROGRAM FEAST SITES marvelous light; who once were not a people God in the day of visitation.” Monthly package of eight Big Sandy, Texas— but are now the people of God, who had not This message is as true today as it was messages on four tapes Church of God Big obtained mercy but now have obtained when Peter wrote it. There will be a day of Write Church of God Sandy’s building mercy.” They were a group of people with- inspection when God will reveal who are Big Sandy, P.O. Box 690, Destin, Florida—Pelican out a national identity scattered throughout “the people of God.” Big Sandy, TX 75755 Beach Resort Or visit Angel Fire, New www.BigSandyChurch.org Mexico—Angel Fire This is a perspective of Community Center Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin—Park Place ABC Ministries CHURCH VISITS Hotel, Baraboo, Wis. (A. Boocher Christian Ministries). Our congregation encour- Myrtle Beach, South Publishers of the free monthly publication of Christian Encouragement ABCM Fellowship Letter ages our pastor to make Carolina—Ocean Reef church visits. Resort PO Box 702 • Tipp City, OH 45371 Email [email protected] • Check out [email protected]

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL 16 ★ ★ ★ THIS PAGE CONTAINS PAID ADVERTISING ★ ★ ★ Sept. 30, 2003 Is a Calendar Required for Salvation?

his is a simple must have a calendar and face least half a dozen different authority on all issues of question. We may the issue of one calendar being ways to determine the First or Salvation also?

try to throw in better than another. Which Last day of the week. To made The purpose in writing this T some “buts and one of the many existing cal- the calendar issues even more is not to require you to answer complicated, we also have the what about this or that,” but endars or newly modified cal- this question one way or the endless issues based on the bottom line is YES or NO. endars do we choose? other, but rather to point out equinoxes, phases of the Lets look at where we are from If we say a calendar is the will-o’-the-wisp nature of moon, etc. both sides of this issue. required for salvation and that calendar issues and suggest I do not think it is unsympa- If we say NO, a calendar is only one calendar is accept- that we seek together the solid thetic to suggest that these cal- not required for salvation, able, then we have a wide vari- foundation of weightier mat- endar issues could degenerate then there is no point in dis- ety to choose from, with more ters of salvation. I am not into calendar cults and may cussing Your Sabbaths versus calendars and modifications to expecting you to accommodate have already done so. others’ Sabbaths, or any other present calendars being pre- my endless fixations on any Apparently no one has the calendar issues, unless we are sented as better or more per- issue, and very frankly I am perfect calendar, or, if they do, considering something other fect than other all the time. not willing to listen endlessly they are keeping it a secret. If than salvation. Salvation is the to a dialogue on divisional The issue is no longer a SUPPOSED perfect calendar is issue we hope to discuss here. simply Saturday or Sunday finally found, will it be recog- issues. If the calendar is not a If we say YES,a calendar is because even on the “Day of nized, and will those responsi- divisional issue, what is?

required for salvation, then we the Week” issue we have at ble for finding it have special —Phil Griffith, Delight, Arkansas

The Plainer Truth about The Days of Galatians 4:10

Yes they are Holy Days But . . . “Three TIMES in a year shall all they males appear shows the word in Gal 4:10 and Lu 6:7, 14:1, 20:20, indebted to forgive that one occasion even though before the lord . . . the feast of unleavened bread . . . Mk 3:2 is #3906 (para-tereo) which is different than the offering could not purge the conscience. See n high school I was on the wrestling team. We had the feast of weeks . . . the feast of tabernacles . . .” to observe commands as in Mat 23:3, 28:20, acts Rom 4:4 “reward is . . . reckoned of debt.” a move called a double reverse.When you were on Note: the Greek word times is translated season 21:25 (#5083, tereo). top of your opponent, you were in the winning posi- I in Lu 12:42 “. . . meat in due season.” and other What were the Galatians doing to scrupulously What are the Weak and Beggarly Elements? tion, so to speak. When he got a “reverse” he was on top and he scored points. In a double reverse, you places. observe these days? It should be very clear in Gal One area that was also misunderstood in an used your opponent’s momentum as he was gaining Nu 28:2 “. . . My offering . . . in their due SEASON.” 3:3. Paul asks “are ye so foolish? having begun in the attempt to say that 4:10 was talking of pagan days a reverse on you (essentially rolling you over) to con- Nu 28:16–Nu 29:39 show the details of the offerings. spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?” What was vs 8 and 9. In verse 8 Paul reminds the tinue the motion and roll him right back to the bot- Nu 29:39 “these things ye shall do unto the lord FLESH is he talking about here? In Hebrews 9 we find Galatians that they offered sacrifices to idols in the tom. You went from top to bottom and back to top in your set feasts . . .” discussion of the first covenant and its “worldly sanc- past. In vs 9 he says “. . . how turn ye again to the again. So, the order is the same as is stated in Gal 4:10: tuary” (vs 1). In Heb 10:6 we find the flesh offerings: weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire To those who think the Holy Days are done “Ye observe days (including Sabbath) and months “sacrifice and offering thou wouldst not, but a body again to be in bondage?” Was the law of carnal ordi- away . ..ON GUARD! for a double reverse! (new moons) and times (seasons, or Holy Days) and hast thou prepared for me.” Also the worldly sanctu- nances weak? Heb 7:13, 16, 27 (vs 18 “. . . for the The days of Gal 4:10 have all the trappings of years.” ary had “gifts according to the law” Heb 8:4. weakness and unprofitableness thereof”). Just like being the Sabbath, new moons, holy days and spe- Notice II Chron 31:3 “He appointed . . . for the The Galatians had come to think that they had the animals offered to idols, the animals offered by cial years such as seventh year and jubilee. This morning and evening burnt offerings, and for the to offer animal sacrifices to be perfect with God, the Levites were earthly, came from the dust and verse is probably used by hundreds of preachers to burnt offerings for the Sabbaths (DAYS) and the new that believing in Christ was good, but believing returned to dust (ashes). Notice the word “elements” dissuade people from keeping the Sabbath and moons (MONTHS), and for the set feasts (SEASONS), as in Christ and offering sacrifices was better. is the same word Paul uses about his bondage to annual Holy Days God commanded in Lev 23 and it is written in the law of Moses.” Notice Paul’s question in vs 2: “This would I learn of Jewish religion Gal 4:3. elsewhere. Because it is so obvious that the WHAT? Have those who deny the need to keep you, received ye the spirit by the works of the law, or Another overlooked point here is that the second Galatians were trying to be as Jewish as possible, it the Holy Days been right all along? So it by the hearing of faith?” In 2:16 he is telling them ‘. . . use of “again” in “. . . again to be in bondage” is not is an easy scripture to misapply. The late Herbert seems—UNTIL the KEY to verse 10 is revealed. A a man is not justified by the works of the law” but by just one word but two. In the first use of “again” (“how Armstrong, a well-known teacher in the Church of man named Charles Dorothy (deceased), one who “the faith of Christ.” Man cannot be justified by the turn ye again”) the Greek is “palin.” “Palin” is the God, kept and taught the Annual Holy Days. As part raked the scriptures seeking truth, told me in a class offering of animals’ blood. “It is not possible that the Greek commonly translated “again.”The second use of his early years Holy Day teaching, he taught that he taught at Ambassador College, Pasadena, in the blood of bulls and goats should take away sin” Heb (whereunto ye desire again) is “palin anothen.” Pentecost was on Monday. In the mid-seventies he mid 1970’s that key. He, in humility, did not even take 10:4. The Galatians were thinking that they needed Anothen is translated in scriptures two ways “again” was confronted by a man who had proved that the credit for it, but said an AC student brought it to his to be as “Jewish” as possible. Notice they were and “from above.” So Paul is saying “. . . how turn ye day of Pentecost was not on Monday.The same man attention. I still have the answer I received from pushing circumcision, Gal 5:2. Paul told them he again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereun- also put forward that the days of Gal 4 were Holy Worldwide Church of God Letter Dept. ignoring this was a strict Jew (Gal 1:13, 14) and even Titus was to ye desire again from above (Moses got the law Days and Paul was saying he was afraid for them truth which Charles was afraid to present and which not compelled to be circumcised (Gal 2:3). from God above) to be in bondage?” because they were keeping these days. I tried to present in 1980. Here is that important key: What was Paul’s concern for these, then? Notice Ye s, offering animal sacrifices daily, monthly, he was AFRAID for them. He did not say what they Herbert Armstrong used the only defense he Touché! The Double Reverse yearly was a form of bondage as we see Paul sum- knew to defend Holy Day keeping; he proclaimed the were doing was outright sin, but he was afraid they marizing in Gal 4:24-25: “. . . for these are the two days of Gal 4:10 were pagan days. To bolster this Ye s, they are Holy Days of the Old Covenant. were looking to those fleshly offerings and not to covenants ...one from the mount Sinai ...and teaching he quoted Gal 4:9: “. . . how turn ye again But . . . Christ. He was not saying don’t observe the annual answereth to the Jerusalem which now is, and is in to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye The word for “observe” has a prefix. The word for Sabbaths or it’s now all right to work on these bondage with her children.” Notice Rom 8:15 “for ye desire again to be in bondage?” observe is normally “tereo” in the Greek (Strong’s Sabbath days of God! have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear “Paul would certainly not call the Holy Days, etc. Concordance #5083). The word here is “para-tereo” Paul “blameless”? ...”No, the Sabbath and annual Holy Days were not weak and beggarly elements” was his correct argu- (#3906). “Para” is a prefix with a broad meaning, weak and beggarly elements. But the animal sacri- ment. strongly modifying the word. Paratereo means to Paul says that he was “. . . touching the right- fices were. Let’s give those who say that these days are Holy “observe scrupulously’ ” or “observe in addition to,” eousness which is in the law, blameless” Phil 3:6f. Ye s, the days of Gal 4:10 are Sabbaths and new Days, etc., their “reverse” of Herbert Armstrong’s among other meanings. Paratereo is used in Lu How was he blameless? Because he had offered all moons and Holy Days and jubilee years. But Paul teaching. So: 20:20 and translated “watched” in the KJV. Here the the commanded sacrifices for his transgressions was not saying don’t observe them. He was saying What are the DAYS? Nu 28:2,3 “. . . My offering . . . spies were watching Jesus scrupulously to see if under the law. Notice Ezra 10:19 “. . . and being he was afraid they were looking to and offering ani- shall ye OBSERVE to offer unto me in their due season they could find the slightest accusation against him. guilty, they offered a ram of the flock for their tres- mal sacrifices as a supplement to Jesus’ sacrifice. ...day by DAY.” Vs 9 “and on the Sabbath DAY two What were the Galatians doing then? How pass.” Certainly there were some who did not con- lambs of the first year . . .” were they “scrupulously” observing these days? The fess their sins and offer the sacrifices. But those that © 1994, 2003 Bill Hillebrenner The Plainer Truth, PO Box 292 What are the MONTHS? Nu 28:11 “and in the New World Translation of the Greek Scriptures did among the Jews were considered righteous. Zebulon, NC 27597; [email protected] beginning of your MONTHS ye shall offer a burnt (Jehovah’s Witnesses) has picked up this connota- Notice Lev 4:3, 13, 14, 20, 27, 31, 35. If someone offering . . .” tion of paratereo, even though it is missed in the offered an offering for their sin according to the law, Permission is hereby granted to copy this article What are the TIMES (or seasons)? Deut 16:16 Interlinear Bible. Strong’s Concordance clearly it says, “it shall be forgiven them.” The law was in its entirety including this line.

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 ★ ★ ★ THIS PAGE CONTAINS PAID ADVERTISING ★ ★ ★ 17 Connections runs classifieds

ONNECTIONS runs classified an E-mail prayer-request line called, Information needed Check out “A Virtual Church” live every Prayer requests Sabbath, 11 am Pacific Time, 1 pm ads: help wanted, for sale, pen appropriately, “Prayer Lines,” from Anyone with information on Dr. Eu- Please add my daughter Melissa to pals, prayer requests and more. her home. Central, 2 pm Eastern. Call 918-222- C gene Walter’s thesis on music, please 7158. Check website for coming topics your prayer group. She is age 11 and Send classified ads (including prayer Through this service, more than contact Cindy Burson at 10758 and speakers, www.godward.org. recently diagnosed with a brain tumor, requests and obituaries) to CONNEC- 200 people receive up-to-date prayer Highway 155 S., Big Sandy, Texas glioblastoma multiforme, 8/2003. She Write Dean Neal at P.O. Box 20496, TIONS (see the address and more infor- requests on a weekly basis. 75755; Email thefaithfulword@cs. currently is being treated with radiation com; or call (903) 636-4288. Carson City, NV 89721 or call 775- mation in the box elsewhere in CON- If you or someone you know and then will be receiving chemo. We 882-3510 for more information on a appreciate all the prayers we can get. NECTIONS). You may also send prayer would like to request prayers, please Resources Sabbath conference phone hookup. requests to Rosy Halley, who operates write to Mrs. Halley at 4502 Skyline Help us receive a miracle. The Ragusa Dr., Chandler, Texas 75758, tele- Study Resources, Feast Info, News, Pen pals Family, P.O. Box 84, Bogota, NJ her “Prayer Lines” service on the Links, and More! www.olivebranch- 07603. Internet. phone (903) 849-2271. Her E-mail es.net. Send for our free “Resource My name is Janice Miracle. I am a sin- Mrs. Halley, a member of the East address is [email protected]. As gle deaf woman, looking for a single Bonita Kilgore requests your contin- Guide.” Olive Branches, P.O. Box 1293, ued prayers as she battles a serious Texas Church of God in Mount space is available, requests sent to Fairview, TN 37062. deaf man for a pen pal. Someone who is middle-aged, kind, honest, easygo- kidney infection. Pleasant, Texas, is the right person for Mrs. Halley will also be printed in Mid-South Sabbatarians-News, Events, this job. For some time, she has run CONNECTIONS each month. ing, likes outdoor activities, knows how Grant Bierman of Little Rock, Ark. and Directory. On the web at www. to have fun and is a Sabbath keeper. sabbatarians.net. would appreciate your prayers as he E-mail: [email protected] or awaits the results of a biopsy. For a free tape dealing with the subject [email protected]. Various International Feast Sites of marriage, send your request to: H Prayer is requested for Mrs. Tressie Wayne and Claudia Speed, 1313 N. Health Parker of Reedly, Calif. Mrs. Parker, a diabetic, has also been suffering with UKCHVTBMMBBUDSYDNEYP 25th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85009; or HRT concerns? What’s a woman to email [email protected]. the flu for the past week. She is the S CQROKYNEECEPETXAOOU do? Male/female high cholesterol mother of Mrs. Charlotte Tessore, of COATUDC I ZPNJUZXBARDC If you know of a young person in need problems? Prostate health issues? Orange Cove, Calif. of a Bible write: Yann and Margaret Obesity, diabetes, migraines, thinning YZGRUOJOFEEDAFHRTBOU Vidal, 2372 Laurel Lane, Bunnell, FL bones, other illnesses, etc., woes? Steve Seachord requests prayers as M FJPTTBXLJEAOWFVEART 32110-5061. Or email: yrmrv98@hot- Learn about our safe and proven solu- he recovers from a procedure to clear mail.com for more information. tions. Call: 626-458-9126. a blocked artery in his heart. JWOFDAMRX L BRV Z I KV T AH GTXLSNGXAOIDALAR I ETG Advertising deadline: Contact Darlene Warren at [email protected], 2150 Catalpa VXDTKMAEAHCNARZHAMEQ Rd., Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A., or (903) 636-4470 to check on the deadline for the cur- NUDBJEJLNNSHGTAPNARU rent issue and to place your ad today. OVSOAFSESAWFOWLHMNED OOJWUGGTRICOFROWLSUB SNSGZAUVOUEPLO IOPBQJ Darlene’s story Continued from page 15 A DHDHF L I MNS I MECODALQ HUMRWX J AOFEABPKASYST Feast on certain days while others observe it on other days? We just EDBALL INACLRL IHVRAHN have to acknowledge that God’s ANAVZT I I ALIFRERSQRWA people have always been numerical- DAATQAL I NAMTKMMBXCPP ly challenged and let it go. SLHSSPCGILAMYNDKCCHI Why do some people prefer to ULCONTONOUMENAD I KAAE attend a site that’s geared toward the RABBQVNIAGARAFALLSER tourist industry and others prefer to observe the Feast from their own personal Petra? Accra Collingwood Kelowna Noosa Heads Highly populated areas can be Baguio City Contonou Llandudno Oaxtepec Ballina Douala Manila enjoyable and oftentimes culturally Ocho Rios educational, but we need to remem- Bateman’s Bay Evian Mendoza Port Vila ber that the Feast is not a time to rub Bribie Island Folkestone Nadi elbows with the world. If we do, it is Queretaro Cartagena Harare Napier quite likely that the mix of heathen Coffs Harbour Jerusalem Niagara Falls Sydney weirdos and converted weirdos could overload the congregation and there just won’t be enough dea- A reminder from Church Member Welcomes Church Members cons to handle the outbreak. Golden Sands Inn, on the beach at Myrtle Beach, S.C. We’re right on the ocean front! Specials include Sunday through Thursday (five Raise your right hand Church of God Big Sandy nights) as low as $195. Phone 1-800-782-0513. Pets welcome. I look forward to meeting church families! Last but not least, an issue has resurfaced for the umpteenth time in certain sections of the ecclesia. Connections: Member to Member Should congregations applaud for Darlene Warren Until You Come Out of Satan’s special music? Advertising Manager Corporate Box—The Synagogue of What kind of question is that? Of 2150 Catalpa Rd., Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A. course we should. How would we Telephone (903) 636-4470 • E-mail: [email protected] Satan—he will Jerk you Around Like wake up the old men and babies if Connections: Member to Member is published by THE JOURNAL:NEWS OF THE a Puppet and a Yo-Yo on his String, we didn’t applaud? CHURCHES OF GOD. © 2003 JMC Associates. All rights reserved. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising for any reason or for no reason. and Dance you Straight Into the I know this is a touchy situation Classified advertisements are 25 cents a word. Prayer requests, obituaries and for some people, so here is a sug- prayer-request updates of reasonable length are run free of charge as space is Lake of Fire Along With him!!! gestion for those of you who feel available. For display-advertising rates and deadline information, please write Darlene Warren at [email protected] or 2150 Catalpa Rd., Big Sandy, Texas (Rev. 3:9). See how Satan has taken you shouldn’t applaud for fear that 75755, U.S.A. Or call her at (903) 636-4470. Connections is an advertising sup- you might get escorted out of the plement to THE JOURNAL, P. O. Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A. over every Church in America!! auditorium for rebellion: When you Send for FREE Literature at feel like showing your appreciation for a job well done, try raising and Truth Publications lowering your right hand at a very The Two Natures in 5861 Geddes Rd. • Ypsilanti, MI 48198 rapid pace (as you would if you were clapping your hands with great enthusiasm). The Heir of Promise The performer will see the hands shooting up and down in the air and Bibles For Our Youth know that he is much appreciated. “What shall I do to Free Bibles You won’t have to worry about being escorted out by burly deacons inherit eternal life?” for your insurrection because they’ll For your free copy: still be asleep. Here’s hoping that all of us as Truthsearch Ministries Free Bibles brethren, bound together by many Juan R. Rains common beliefs (and a few differ- Just Write or E-mail Yann & Margaret Vidal ences), can come together and have PO Box 1082 • Andrews, NC 28901 2372 Laurel Lane • Bunnell Florida 32110-5061 • [email protected] a safe and wonderfully weird Feast! This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL 18 ★ ★ ★ THIS PAGE CONTAINS PAID ADVERTISING ★ ★ ★ Sept. 30, 2003

You Are Christ’s Earthly Court, His Temple—So Place Your Leaders on Trial. Read 1 Cor. 3:16, 17; 5:5, 12, 13 and chapter 6:2-5!

By Dean Neal tions,” where most of these leaders in and around the saints until Christ in-hand in their Gentile method of to continue in sin, but to repent and 9/2K3 hide their moneys, retirement funds, comes! Only a few of those many ruling and stealing—they must stop all the “old man” of sins habits! hy are the CEOs of so many extorted properties (in pressured called by God, Himself, will be left, always appear as the “great ones”! The ecclesias have become hold- W“Churches of God” afraid to “wills” of the now dead saints), etc.! who tested, proved all these “tares” Preach to the followers free? ing-corrals for rebellious, vain, silly, allow this newspaper, The Journal, Shame! Shame on them! They even to be the enemy of God, and so Forget it—these ministers only care weak, God-less women deserters— to be read by their naive, timid, tithe- have the audacity to place God’s exposed them constantly of who they for the money and property they’re they find any excuse to desert their paying congregations? name, plus our names (the ecclesia), are! Read hard Mt. 13! These “few” able to pilfer from you by totally mate and wander aimlessly from one group to another—some ministers The congregations exist, in effect, on their dead, inanimate, non-living will be resurrected at Christ’s return mutilating and misapplying God’s even promote this evil so that they to mine the tithe-paying “gold corporations! Perhaps Christ is to be His special, chosen priesthood Word into a “curse.” If you don’t can target them for themselves! mine,” their peoples! beginning, like He did in the early and kings! You saints need to finally comply—H.W.A. was a “pro” in Some have openly been seen being Keeping their congregations from churches (Rev. 2:15, 16, 20-23; 3:3, get on a one-on-one relationship using such sales tactics! His minis- with and around these silly reading The Journal keeps them 19) to personally start culling these with Christ; after all, He’s your only ters all follow his lead—only one I women—a certain minister was from learning, for example, that in order to finally bring fear to the Savior! know preaches tithes don’t belong to doing just that and certain law-abid- “tithing” is not appropriate for saints in following mere men (and Test your leaders with I Tim 3 and the ministers, yet he erroneously ing saints accused him as God com- Christians and applies in the Bible women!), instead of worshipping Titus 1—if they fail any of these teaches Malachi is Shem and Christ mands! You know what he did? He only to ancient Israel. Him and Him only! qualifications, put them out! Quit had a beginning. berated his accusers and said that he Because The Journal faithfully Those who insist on cluttering the messing around with these spiritual I don’t see your money-inflated would immediately resign—he reports church news without preju- saints with all their material, litera- “tares,” who want your moneys and ministers mentioned here, but only walked out, got in his car and went dice or any special personal slant, ture, books, videos and tapes, thus your souls! You’re telling me that to the saints who need help! How many home! This is the psychology he the newspaper should have complete keeping them from searching and worship Christ, you must have one ministers made sure all the poor used on his blind followers, instead access to all those that comprise the studying God’s Word, will find their of these poor excuses to follow? were assisted in making it to “their” of apologizing and repenting for many members of the church enter- end insured, stamped and sealed— 9/15/2K3: Excerpted from a letter (not God’s) feasts? You’re all in the even making an appearance of evil (which is one of the qualifications of prises—that’s only fair! watch! to a “Church of God” “minister”: business to make money, not lose it a minister; I Tim. 3:2). In tears, his Some of these leaders will quickly If I, as a man, am totally fed up “You’ve stolen moneys, etc., from on the less fortunate ones! They blind followers actually said they allow The Journal to print their per- and tired of the plans, works and the saints for too long—your whole want no one who can’t contribute to were sorry and begged him back. tinent events, works and plans antics of these “ministers,” think life you’ve lived off the saints. them in their multitudinous “great Weak, wicked wives always blurt (which is advantageous to them what Christ feels; they take from the You’ve deceived them into believing works,” which amounts to turning out, “My head is now Christ, not my only), yet they will not promote The saints; they teach adultery by living that you are the end-time apostle of their backs on the world, and facing husband, and my minister is so and Journal to their members. in it; they bring “other” works and the New Jerusalem church, a Peter- and preaching to their “choirs” their so, who is more biblical than my stu- Could it be that leaders of the var- illogical, pagan, secular teachings type necessary leader. You, like the goal of reaching the world—why is pid husband!” Satan’s ministers help ious “churches” are afraid that their instead of the Scriptures; they ply pope, are trying to be the mediator it the two witnesses and an angel them to make this rebellious, evil “members” will learn too much, will their feasts for titillating the senses between the saints and God—if you must do the job? Rev. 11 with Rev. transition—the churches house these gain too much understanding, will (treated just like Christmas!) of their don’t quickly repent, openly and get 14:6! Figure it out! spirit-less women! Proof? Look “grow in too much grace and knowl- imitation saints, while appropriating down from the throne you’ve built 10/1/2K3: Expose all who openly around in your congregation, and edge”? their followers’ unbiblical 2nd tithes for yourself, you, too, will be sin, especially ministers. Identify once these leavened types are found, Nothing, naturally, can ever take (vacation moneys for each individual destroyed. All your stolen moneys, them—their names and acts go to him or her personally and tell the place of God’s Word (nor ever family, not the minister’s)—yet look properties, retirement funds, etc., them their sin and that they must revealed? Yes! Is it wrong for all stop it. If they don’t, go to the minis- should—that’s the problem with all at all the demands for money—that’s will be of no value, for the grave is involved to cover up and “hide” ter? No! Take two or three others the churches, today; they put book- why they initiated their Feast plans now yawning open to accept you! knowledge of crimes, evil plans and with you to this unrepentant sinner lets, books, tapes, videos, etc., long in advance in order to compete You better repent—you’ve been transactions? Isn’t that even carnally as witnesses. Now if he or she still always ahead of the Scriptures!). with all the other worldly-formed cor- warned more than all the others of and rightfully called “withholding doesn’t repent, go to the minister? The Journal is truly a “mirror” of porational enterprises—to get the Satan’s ministers! You think that evidence” of wrongdoing? You No! Take it directly before the eccle- all the churches. It’s easy to see warm, yet spiritually dead followers you’re invincible because nothing become an accessory of the crime! If sia!—It’s a command; Mt. 18:15-17! utterly gross errors, plus the well-lit of as many of their competing corpo- has happened to you, but it will if you saw a man molesting a little girl Don’t wait for the ministers to do truths, in the same paper. rations’ members! It’s all centered you continue on saying that you can in a neighborhood garage, you mean anything, for most, like H.W.A.’s These leaders have been and are around money—it’s a criminal, bind or loose anything on earth to tell me and even God that it’s not ministers even condoned his marry- guilty of enforcing that their peoples deceitful business! Robbers of the (that’s a lie! Read it in the Amplified any of your business or responsibili- ing a divorcee (hundreds of true wid- drink of their spiritual kool-aid laced temple—us? Yes! Like Christ, drive what Mt. 16:19 and 18:18 really ty to immediately make it known, ows, and he just had to marry her). heavily with error, and for them to them out! says)—you mistranslated this scrip- not only to the law-preserving These types are in this tithing busi- subscribe to The Journal would Where is Christ in all this temple ture on purpose in order to make you authorities, but to the neighborhood? ness for money, never rocking the show them too much truth! (us!) activity?! The scriptures implic- the great one! You’ve not only ele- boat—they need to retain “their” What if it was the father of the members in order to live off of them, Remember, Satan’s greatest influ- itly state to “remember the poor,” vated yourself up into Christ’s posi- child? Would you point the authori- in fact they are always trying to steal ence is right in the middle of the “remember the poor,” not “remem- tion, but have stolen from His tem- ties quickly to this man if he was try- members from one another just for churches—the world’s already ber to totally support your ministers ple—us! You will yet pay for your ing to kill her, and perhaps did? Do money’s sake, nothing else! Read deceived. These men are afraid to with tithes, or a curse will come on great sins you’ve committed against you think that it may be proper to try The Journal, for their motives are have The Journal shared with “their” you.” And you “ministers,” quit Christ’s brothers, but your demise to stop the man to continue his crime easily seen—they’re special to them- called-out ones! To demand moneys using Malachi, whose message was will come quickly! You have over- while you’re watching? Yet, spiritu- selves! Anyone who tries to hinder and tithes is blatantly wrong and not for you but was expressly written looked the many warnings given you ally, right in Christ’s face, you saints and repress the truth, whether pub- unscriptural, but it has gone on for for the nation of Judah, its Levites these many years. You repent? I pre- are committing the great sin of total- lishers, writers, evolutionists, scien- ’way too many years! But why? and priests, and especially Malachi’s dict, not you, for your vanity and ly ignoring and turning your blind tists or ministers, God will show His Because no minister is going to day—read it, you saints, for your greed will not allow you to! You eyes away from the molestation and wrath upon them, Rom. 1:18! Truth expose the truth for fear of losing his leaders have deceived you! Wake up even steal from the poor—in murder (spiritually) of your own must be foremost in the saints’ lives. livelihood—that’s why they never and study God’s Word and it alone essence, Christ! Christ is fed up!” brethren (family) in Christ! But Those who reject truth, whether sci- preach the real, whole truth on this for truth! Read Matthew 25:35-46! how? entist or minister, God will turn them subject! Why can’t you saints get off If we ever go into a deep depres- Drop these false ones who crimi- You allow too many of the “imita- over to a reprobate mind, which then your spiritual rears, and, like the sion, these trade-less ne’er-do-wells nally prey on you by stealing from tion” ministers of Satan to not only can’t know or believe truth—this is describing the spiritual disease so noble Bereans of old (Acts 17:10- will be the first to yank bread out of you, God’s temple, plus having the steal your moneys and tithes, by many of your leaders have; Rom. 12), get your nose into God’s Word children’s and widows’ hands in rule over you, treating you as a low- demanding them, or your salvation is 1:24—Some don’t even know what (that’s the only place it should be order to live! The only reason Christ class, spiritless, stupid layman saint, in jeopardy, plus you take in all their God is! These men are now (or any way, if you want unadulterated allows some of them to operate is to who never ever can learn anything lies! Sure, they all, like their father, always were) devoid of God’s truth—stay away from secular test the saints on whether they’ll fol- which Heb. 5:12 and I Jn. 2:24-27 mix truth with error—that’s why you Spirit—yet you follow them! Wake works, for Satan’s deceptions come low men (I called one headquarters totally refutes! all are so deceived! These molest the up and change! And you greedy, through them—remember, they and asked who the head of their cor- We, the ecclesia, not a group of saints, continually! Throw them out, lying temple robbers had better searched the scriptures daily, not any poration is, and the secretary asked self-elevated ministers who live off of like the Ephesus church was com- repent, for your life may taken as an mended in doing—Rev. 2:2! Read other Biblical works by others, to who I was. I answered her, but then us, are God’s earthly court, yet your example—remember Ananias and Eph. 5:5, 10, 11 which commands Sapphira? Your sins put theirs to prove whether what Paul was she wouldn’t tell me, but put me over ministers make the decisions, never you to expose them, plus “never have preaching, was true. Can’t you saints to a phone answering service—these you—you, the saints, are and always shame! Christ is angry enough to kill any part in and have no fellowship certain leaders! Change quick for if ever get to the place where Christ are your fearful leaders, whose secre- will be to them, just inane, lower- with their fruitless deeds and enter- and His Word are obeyed and fol- taries are instructed not to answer class, unlearned idiots! Get rid of we saints don’t clean our house, prises (corporate religio businesses!) Christ will! lowed only? I Cor. 2:3! Remember, certain questions—Christ-like? No!). them, and replace them with unselfish of darkness, but instead EXPOSE, we have the N.T., which they didn’t Wimps all! Christians among yourselves! REPROVE AND CONVICT THEM.” Verse For comments and questions, have to magnify and make plain the What has happened to Christ These leaders sail in pirate ships 12 shows these men are doing evil, write P.O. Box 20496, Carson City, O.T.—this is why I Jn. 2:27 can eas- being our only head, and husbands with no rudder (no biblical direc- shameful (including homosexuality, NV 89721. To read previously pub- ily be obeyed—read it—it’ll be total- being the head of their wife and fam- tion), or keel (no stability in that adultery, theft, etc.) things behind the lished articles of Dean’s, visit The ly new to you!). ily? Who are these Gentile-cloned, they don’t observe the law of God ecclesia’s back—secretly! Even dot- Journal’s website at www.thejour- The various “Church of God” cor- hierarchical misfits who have concerning the qualifications of a ing, weak, usually divorced or sepa- nal.org. His articles are part of the porations (totally misnamed, for cor- squeezed themselves in and between minister)—“They are utterly and rated from their true husbands, are downloadable PDF files of the porations are of this world) are afraid the saints (also husbands and willfully and disgracefully ignorant, these false ministers’ prey. Connections advertising section that that you’ll find out, finally, that to wives—wives most always put min- and continue to be so, lacking the Men who act and talk like homo- are listed near the end of the index of demand tithes, and to put their hier- isters ahead of their husbands! They sense of God’s presence (His Holy sexuals are probably just that—they each issue of The Journal (for index ply their horrid, forbidden sexual of back issues, click on “Morgue.”) archical, gentilian leaders ahead of say “such and such minister is my Spirit) and all true knowledge of acts not only in the “parlors of illicit If enough true saints who are Christ, is a wicked thing to do. The leader and Christ is my new head!”) Him, I say this to your shame.” This love,” but in among the ecclesia! Of tired of putting up with greedy, Journal is thereby condemned by and their only mediator, Christ. They verse (I Cor. 15:34) had to do with course they keep it secret, but God thieving tithe-demanding false them, for fear of losing followers, no more choose ministers by the their ignorance about the resurrec- knows—God called these fornica- ministers would like a Sabbath thus money—it’s all a Babylonish only scriptural authority so com- tion, and is typical of the ministers; tors, adulterers (so many so-called conference phone hookup, write business which uses unbiblical manded in ITim. 3 and Titus 1 today, in regard to the subject of ministers live openly in adultery me at P.O. Box 20496, Carson phrases and unscriptural indoctrina- expressly, etc., or follow only “tithing” and “controlling the today that it’s become a giant stench City, NV 89721, or phone me at tion, housed in worldly “corpora- Christ—the tares are allowed to mix saints”—these two subjects go hand- in God’s nose) and homosexuals, not 775-882-3510.

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To the true and faithful members An Open Letter: of God’s Church—worldwide

Dear Brethren in Christ Jesus, Santa Barbara in 1994 by the one who had replaced Mr. Armstrong “They Didn’t Believe What He as Pastor-General! Many of us were left stunned and in total shock! said!” This was the title of a That night left me sleepless and literally crying. Knowing the changes Personal . . . from Mr. Herbert W. that had already been made from 1986 until the time of that confer- Armstrong. In this letter he wrote ence should have prepared me for what this man would do, but it did of the sickening conditions that not. It hurt me severely. he observed while traveling These men did not really believe that God used Mr. Armstrong to restore around the world. His doctrinal teachings within His Church. To further their own goals He became convinced that the and achieve their purposes, they pretended to believe Mr. Armstrong real root cause of humanity’s was chosen and flattered him (Mr. Armstrong) in his presence. troubles and evils could be Do you know most of the ministers today do NOT believe ALL of those summed up in six words: “They doctrinal teachings either? They say they do, but many speak disre- didn’t believe what He said!” He spectfully of Mr. Armstrong, and at the same time have made then added, “And they still don’t changes in many of those restored doctrinal teachings. believe what He says today!” Since they could not accept ALL of the erroneous changes, as made The Jewish people did not believe what Jesus Christ said during His known by that leader from 1986 to 1994, they were not content to stay ministry here on earth; and tragically the same is true with many of within that organization, but carried over the erroneous doctrines the Church members today. they did accept into the newly forming Churches. Most of the few thousand members who yet remain within the over- The members have been deceived by these men mainly because of all framework of the teachings of Christ do not seem to care that their who they are rather than by what they believe and teach! ministers have watered down some of the teachings; while others have walked away from some of them completely! One member said to me, “I am sleeping!” He still is, for he has remained within the false Church he is in. It is NOT God’s Church! One elder asked me at the close of a very large conference of minis- ters, about five years ago, what I thought about that organization. I Consider the following erroneous teachings I personally know of that replied that I found several doctrinal errors (and named them)— are within at least two of the larger organizations: A dual gospel, the important teachings that had been revealed to Mr. Armstrong. He one that Christ brought and the other ABOUT Jesus Christ. Another is paused, and then said, “I’m satisfied.” THEIR version of Born Again, not what was restored and taught by Mr. Armstrong. This is where most are today, satisfied; even though there are and continue to be serious problems within the teachings! Very few both- They also do not believe there is any such thing as Physical Sin, thus er to seriously look into the teachings of the organization they attend. watering down the belief in Divine Healing, and in so doing this also affects the symbols of the Passover service, making them one and Many care more about being able to fellowship with others than they the same, with no distinction, or recognition between spiritual and do about the Faith Once Delivered to the Saints! physical sin! Too many just do not believe ‘ALL’ that Christ tells us in Scripture These are just a sampling of the carryovers from the erroneous about our very own troublesome, trying, and deceptive times! To changes made in the doctrinal teachings restored by Mr. Armstrong them ALL of the teachings of Christ do not seem to matter all that that came into existence after his death! Then there is the problem of much! Government! Yet, all of us, are being JUDGED by God today within the standards of And virtually all of them will not even consider re-instituting the rul- ALL of the Scriptural teachings of our God just as He led Peter to write ing on Makeup! THEY DON’T DARE—for they would lose much of their to all of God’s people: membership and finances—as did we by so doing! Even so, it is our “For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God: . . . desire to obey God in ALL of the teachings regardless of the cost. and if the righteous one is scarcely saved, . . .” (I Peter 4:17-18). One could ask: “Are they like King Saul who FEARED the people rather And this judgment that is upon us NOW will determine whether the than God? (I Samuel 15:24). door to the place of safety and salvation will be OPEN to you and me Many of you are going to the various Feast of Tabernacles sites, where (Matthew 25:10; Luke 21:34-36). God has NOT placed His name! I caution you: God’s presence will NOT Numerous times throughout the Scriptures Jesus Christ warned His be there! It would be well for each one to reconsider and determine Church of the danger of false ministers and their subtle deceptive prac- where God’s presence will be. tices, and in particular at this time of the end! Those times began com- With all of these things in mind, we need to think of what Jesus said to ing upon us in a very rapid and abrupt manner after January 16, 1986— those who followed Him, yet would not believe Him: “Why do you call the date of the death of God’s late apostle, and the Elijah to come! Me, Lord, Lord, and do NOT the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46) To His Mr. Armstrong himself warned us time after time in almost every let- disciples, He further said, “. . . there are some of you who do NOT believe” ter about Satan and his devious practices as did the apostle Paul (Acts (John 6:47). Many walked away! It is no different in our time today. 20:28-31; Ephesians 6:10-12, plus). Mr. Armstrong ends his writing about the world with the following But the majority of the various Church members do NOT fully believe words: “. . . men, except for the very few, don’t believe what God what Christ or His apostles wrote about Satan and his counterfeit says!” Do we? ministers who would come on the scene in our time deceiving minis- Brethren, THE FINAL TIME OF OUR JUDGMENT IS ALMOST HERE!!! Will you ters and members alike! Often their reasoning is the tendency to and I be judged worthy by Christ to escape ALL of the horrors that think this WARNING applies to others, and not themselves! shall come to pass? More importantly, will we be judged to be found I read these Scriptures back in the 1950s, and I asked myself: “Could acceptable to stand before the Son of Man (Luke 21:36)? Or will we these false leaders to come from among us be this one, or that one?” be found sleeping with insufficient oil in our lamps? Unable, or Then I would answer the question, saying, “No, it couldn’t be!” unwilling, to join our Savior for the Marriage Feast. It was just too much for me to believe these ministers, named by me Brethren, God is using me in these Open Letters to WARN you before in my thinking, could possibly be used by Satan in this manner! But the final closing of the door! sadly and tragically it has happened with many! Some from that time, Will YOU believe FULLY what Christ said Himself—as well as what He and many later! Many were my teachers, and all were my friends. led His apostles to write, and speak? While listening to a taped Bible study recently of Mr. Armstrong, I Remember, each one of us is being heard him make a comment that he had decided to take the Bible judged as to whether we are truly study that night rather unexpectedly. BELIEVING and LIVING by EVERY word of As a result he was disappointed to find only one minister who was in God (Matthew 4:4; Luke 4:4). attendance. With a note of sadness in his voice, he said, “I would rather Let all of us with love and great con- have two or three faithful ministers than 500 ministers of Baal!” cern pray for one another. I, along with Though God blinded him to what would actually take place after his others, pray earnestly for all of you. death, he did have grave misgivings. He said as much in his last ser- Don Billingsley mon, “. . . They are like vultures waiting for me to die!” Prophecy had to P. O. Box 8819 be fulfilled, and it was, and is yet before us today to be further fulfilled! Modesto, CA 95357 After the death of Mr. Armstrong, all that we believed and held dear (209) 772-0737 was thrown out on the very first day of our ministerial conference in www.cog-ff.com

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lished a city where an eagle with a snake in ‘Eye’ of God. The Egyptians knew this. Ra its beak rested on a cactus.” pronounced Ray from Sun Ray was the child, “On June 20, 1782, the Continental the son in Egyptian folklore. The Trinity Flag Idol 3: Congress of the United States of America comes from this concept. Osiris, Ra and Isis. adopted my image on its seal to signify that Father, Son and the Holy Spirit . . . Algeria’s this new country should rely on its own flag looks just like the Shriner’s symbol virtues. My likeness can be found on Ameri- [crescent & 5-point star] . . . Is there any- can coinage beginning in 1795. In the 19th where on Earth the Masons have not con- Sun Worship century, French troops under Napoleon con- quered? . . . our 1st flag in America was quered Europe using me as their symbol. [as almost the all-seeing eye. In the U.S. the Beast!] Many French soldiers gave their National Archives are preserved the two pro- lives to protect the golden eagle which sup- posed [Eye] flags for the new Confederacy.” ported the French flag on the battleground. he sun is worshiped as main deity is 80% sun rays or 80% for the sun. The “In 1911 the Boy Scouts of America Sky God Worship as US Flag Design among pagan gods and US is no excep- “divine goal” is really the sun, the sun god or selected me as their highest achievement “The crescent moon and star symbol actu- Ttion. Most Americans keep Sunday, Satan since the sun is a star. So the US flag is award. On July 20, 1969, I arrived on Earth’s ally pre-date Islam by several thousand years observe Easter sunrise, and solstices of really a sun worship flag; religious depicting moon when a lunar module named Eagle ... these ancient celestial symbols were in Christmas and Independence Day (fireworks a divine goal. commanded by Eagle Scout Neil Armstrong use by the peoples of Central Asia and for sun, its earthly counterpart is fire). landed in the Sea of Tranquillity. Siberia in their worship of sun, moon and sky Persian Sun Worship, Phoenix as Eagle “Today, I enjoy a prominent place in Early US Idolatry & Sun Worship gods. There are also reports that the crescent © 2003 Anne Wright “A symbol of the America as a symbol of power and authority. moon and star were used to represent the How idols of maypole, liberty tree and US Sun and a lion appears on the flag of Persia, The emblems of the President, vice-presi- Carthaginian goddess Tanit or the Greek god- flag combined: “New Yorkers had erected whose people have always been Sun wor- dent, several members of the President’s cab- dess Diana.” © 2003 About, Inc. two flagpoles on the common to celebrate shipers. Kings and emperors have frequently inet and most branches of the armed forces Malaysia flag modeled after US, 14 red [King George III’s] birthday center on my Persia Malaysia Tibet and white stripes, yet crescent and 14-point in June [1766]. The public image. Several star in blue canton. Sun, moon or star repre- ceremony, however, was states picture sents sky gods as US. With 14 points or rays more a celebration of the me on their the star resembles the sun (sign). repeal of the Stamp Act and a state flags and Tibet flag features a 12-ray yellow sun, typical fertility rite of spring on their state and triangle relates to pyramid and Eye (the poles looked like may- seals.” Masonic motif. poles) than a commemoration So US eagle Uruguay copies US design except blue of the Hanoverian dynasty.” represents stripes instead of red; sun face of 16 rays

“One night in August 1766 Uruguay Argentina Lebowa Venezuela instead of stars. The Flag several soldiers cut one of the Detective website has category poles . . . next day New of “star/sun pattern” with 3 divi- Yorkers held a meeting in sions: 1 star, many stars, sun. protest. A party of soldiers “My little flag book . . . refers with drawn bayonets attacked to the suns as Sun of May for those attending and prevent- Argentina and Star of May for ed the raising of another pole. Uruguay. This obviously refers Suddenly a flagpole became to the same astrological-leg- a ‘Liberty Tree’ . . . Each pub- Soviet Air Force associated their terrestrial endary object.” © 2000 Flags Of lic ritual and every civilian- power with the celestial power supreme god or sun god. Freemason Daniel The World military clash added to the of the solar orb and have Beard founded Boy Scouts of America so no The object is sun or star, both with face. pole’s symbolic weight.” accepted the Sun or one of its surprise that its rank symbols of fleur-de-lis, Lebowa has yellow half sun, yellow and Rioting in America (1996) by symbolic beasts or birds as 5-point star, ‘heart’ and eagle are from wor- white rays. Venezuela sports 5-point stars in Paul Gilje their emblem, as with the lion ship of Trinity (Nimrod, Semiramis and son). half circle as half sun. Its 3 early flags had 32- Most US founding fathers of the Great Mogul and the Scout logo uses 2 5-point stars like UCG’s rayed sun face, upper half sun face and half were Freemasons (1/3 presi- eagles of Caesar and Napoleon. new logo. sun rising. dents, too) and sun wor- “Thus throughout antiquity Head of NASA for Apollo Space Program Soviet Air Force flag had hammer and shipers according to patriot Thomas Paine’s the animal and the constellation always have became Grand Commander of Masons. First sickle inside a red 5-point star on a 14-ray Age of Reason, Origin of Free-Masonry: been identified with the Sun—indeed in all astronauts were Masons. Their House of the yellow rising sun with winged propeller. So “Masonry (as I shall show from the cus- historic ages till it finally appears on the royal Temple in Washington DC hallows gods star and sun reinforced each other. toms, ceremonies, hieroglyphics and chro- arms of England, as well as on those of many Hermes, Isis, Nephthys; has photo of Neil nology of Masonry) is derived and is the of the early noble families of that country. Armstrong on moon, his Masonic apron over Masonic Eye (Sun) & Pyramid remains of the religion of the ancient Druids; During the 12th century it was the only ani- his space suit. NASA missions, rockets and Djibouti, East Timor, Mozambique, Puerto who like the Magi of Persia and the Priests of mal shown on Anglo-Norman shields. craft are named for false worship as Apollo, Rico and Zimbabwe sport same design as Heliopolis in Egypt were Priests of the Sun. (Starnames, Their Lore and Meaning Saturn, Aquarius. Cuba of ‘Masonic apron’ of 5-point star in tri- They paid worship to this great luminary as Richard Hinchley Allen 1889, a reference angle. Many others are similar but minus the the great visible agent of a great invisible first book . . . for astronomers)” Freemasonry Sun Worship star. Triangles, especially equilateral, are cause whom they styled.” “The Phoenix represents the sun itself Encyclopedia of Freemasonry explains used to represent deity as Deity Triangle for “The Christian religion and Masonry have which dies at the end of each day but is All-Seeing Eye—“An important symbol of Trinity. one and the same common origin: both are reborn the following dawn. Christianity took the Supreme Being borrowed by the Masons prominently display radiant Eye derived from the worship of the Sun. The dif- the bird over and the authors of bestiaries Freemasons from the nations of antiquity. On triangle at their lodges, though claim their ference between their origin is that the equated it with Christ who was put to death the same principle the Egyptians represented club is not religious. Yet embrace all false Christian religion is a parody on the worship but rose again.” John Sparks The Discovery Osiris their chief deity by the symbol of an religions as their open display Bible may be of the Sun in which they put a man whom they of Animal Behavior (1982) open eye and placed the hieroglyphic of him replaced by Koran in Moslem areas. call Christ in the place of the Sun and pay him Arizona blazing 5-point star flag symbol- in all their temples.” The 2 founders of Mormons and Jehovah the same adoration which was originally paid izes the sun and its capital of Phoenix. Eagle “Those Brethren who delight to trace our Witnesses were Masons. Used Masonic sym- to the Sun, as I have shown in the chapter on replaced phoenix in early US history. emblems to an astronomical origin find in the bols and terms in their churches and both the origin of the Christian religion.” compass a symbol of the sun and circular grave markers have Masonic pyramid and Paine didn’t know the true Christ. One of Eagle—Boy Scout Goal of Heathen Lore pivot representing the body of the luminary, Eye. Mary Baker Eddy’s husband was a many Manly Hall’s books on Freemasonry, Jupiter’s eagle mascot represents sky gods and the diverging legs his rays . . . Obelisks Mason and evident in her Christian Science. Secret Destiny of America (1944), quotes a as US national use. While learning skills is were originally erected in honor of the sun Many buildings feature a pyramid on top certain unnamed man called Professor instru- important, scouts learn pagan lore. Eagle god.” as NY City skyscrapers. World Trade Center mental in founding the US, in this case scout ceremony unashamedly associates with “Hardly any of the symbols of Free- has 1 plus a stepped pyramid (were by Twin designing its flag: paganism: masonry are more important in their signifi- Towers). “The sun of our political air like the sun in “I am the Eagle . . . ancient Assyrians asso- cation or more extensive in their application New Mexico flag’s sun has 4 sets of styl- the heavens is very low in the horizon—just ciated me with Ashur, the great sun god. I than the sun . . . as the regenerator or reviver ized rays as a cross. The symbol is sun, cross now approaching this winter solstice which it was awed and worshiped for my majestic of all things is the Phallic Worship which and 4-point star all rolled into 1. will reach very soon. But as the sun rises beauty . . . To the peoples of India I was the made a prominent part of the Mysteries.” Seal of Bernalillo County, NM has the sun from his grave in Capricorn, mounts toward symbol of fire, of wind and storms, and the Sex worship evidenced by Washington cross with slogan In This Sign Conquer. his resurrection in Aries and passes onward bringer of immortality. Monument, a huge phallic and sun sign. Constantine led false Christians by declaring and upward to his glorious culmination in “In the golden age of Greece I was a sym- Grand Commander Albert Pike of 1800s Sunday worship instead of Sabbath. He saw a Cancer, so will our political sun rise and con- bol of victory and supreme spiritual energy. I claimed, “Freemasonry is identical with the cross and the slogan in sky and conquered. tinue to increase in power, in light and in was the sacred bird of Zeus, the ruler of all Mysteries” (Rev 17:5 mystery Babylon). He embraced former sun religion of Mithra glory; and the exalted sun of summer will not gods. The Greeks depicted me with out- Worshipful Master H. Meij, Sinim Lodge changing terms to Christ. have gained his full strength of heat and stretched wings holding a serpent in my 2000, explained US seal (on $1 bill) and its Roswell, NM, flag has sun cross over tri- power in the starry Lion until our Colonial claws, the triumph of good over evil.” numerous Masonic emblems as Eye: angular peak. Its logo has UFO with beams Sun will be in the glorious exaltation “In Rome I represented Jupiter, the su- “The Great Seal does indeed demonstrate (forming pyramid above ground) celebrating demanding a place in the governmental fir- preme god. As the Roman legions conquered many features that when seen from and inter- 1947 Roswell Incident. It depicts night with maments alongside of, coordinate with and in the world, they marched under the standard preted in a Masonic point of view, are or crescent moon; day with red and white stripes no wise subordinate to any other sun of any of the eagle. I became the personal emblem could be Masonic in origin. Finally, if such an streaming from flying or solar disk. So alien other nation upon earth.” of the Caesars, signifying supreme authori- occurrence happened once or twice we could disk, All-Seeing-Eye and sun are inter- No wonder a book is called America’s ty.” [as the Beast!] shrug it off as a coincidence, but the number changeable—sun gods. Occult Holidays! House of Representatives “To the early Christians, I was the symbol of occurrences is such that it is impossible to Turkey, Assyria, Kashmir: Star = Sun flag book 1977: “The star is a symbol of the of the ascension. In early icons, I was best casually sweep it under the rug of coinci- heavens and the divine goal to which man has known as the symbol of St. John the dence.” “Turkish Probe ... © 2000 Turkish aspired from time immemorial; the stripe is Evangelist. To 12th century Christians, my He told of many various relations between Daily News ... a heated discussion is going symbolic of the rays of light emanating from flight represented renewal of the church. Seal and Masonry as “32 feathers correspond on among Ankara’s citizens about its logo the sun.” When the Spanish arrived in central Mexico, to the 32 degrees of the Scottish Rite.” which was a Hittite Sun symbol . . . This sun The stripes depict sun rays so the US flag they found that the ancient Aztecs had estab- Freedom Domain website: “The Sun is the CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE becomes idolatry. physical activity; as Evening star for beauty, She cites Richard Realf’s Hymn of Pitts- pictogram was considered by the Hittites to “The U.S. Capitol Building was modeled sexuality and fertility. Both illustrate how 5- burgh that begins with: be a symbolic description of the universe. directly on the Pantheon of Rome . . . a tem- point star is used in US and other nations for My father was mighty Vulcan The traditional metal sun disk was combined ple to all the false gods of that culture. In the war and military power; and yet denotes I am Smith of the land and sea, with . . . stars. This sun symbol was used in top of the dome of the U.S. Capitol is a fres- feasting and love, too! Opposites indicate a The cunning spirit of Tubal Cain ... Hittite religious ceremonies.” co entitled ‘The Apotheosis of George fickle goddess of war and love, an addictive Pittsburgh was important in WWII making Sun, moon or star conveys starry heavens. Washington.’ ” love/hate relationship to a false god. Explains war products. Tubalcain’s name (Gen 4:22) is Having its capital logo of sun worship for so “The central grouping in the highest part why a colored star can be a child’s reward or used favorably in Masonic ritual. Mackey’s long, we would expect Turkey’s flag to be of the dome depicts Washington being taken party shape, yet same symbol on war plane Revised Encyclopedia of Freemasonry states sun oriented, too. Search for the Origin of the up to heaven, done by Italian artist Brumidi dropping bombs! Now that’s a mad symbol! he is the Roman god Vulcan. Crescent and Star Motif in the Turkish Flag in a style strongly reminiscent of paintings of The “divine goal” of US flag is thus sun She says, “Although the ancient Greek © 1997 Polat Kaya: the Assumptions of Jesus or Mary. Brumidi god or Venus, Nimrod or Semiramis. Greek statue of Athena Parthenos no longer exists, “[Moon] was a religious symbol from the had previously painted in the version of her was Diana whom all the world the replica standing in the Nashville earliest times. It has been used alone or Vatican. In this case, how- worships (Acts 19:24-28). Had many breasts Parthenon is the largest indoor sculpture in together with a star or sun symbol on war ever, it is not angels of or with baby at breast. Now she is Mary (with the Western World. It stands 41 feet tall; the

standards, ancient seals, coins and Roswell child), the divine goal of US. Depicted stand- winged victory (Nike) in her hand is over 6 monuments. The star used in the Roswell, NM logo ing on top nation’s Capitol, goddess of feet.” ‘crescent and star’ motif repre- immaculate conception. She has highest University of Georgia in Athens, Ga., dis- sented the Sun and hence the sun- pedestal of Capitol and its land from plays another statue of Athena. Maine’s capi- god most of the times. In other Virgin(ia) and Mary(land). tol dome is a pedestal for Minerva. Several times it represented the planet You still want to keep any holiday by such states have Ceres, goddess of agriculture, Venus and hence the goddess . . . an idolatrous nation, ruled by false gods, atop theirs. Both are used on state seals for ’Ishtar’ to Babylonians.” demons who set holiday law? official signs. “The Origins and Descrip- Former librarian of Library of Congress: Francis Scott Key wrote words of The tion of the Assyrian Flag by Ho- “The report I am currently working on is a Star-Spangled Banner to drunkard’s tune To mer Ashurian, History & Cultural multi-part work in progress about the Queen Anacreon in Heaven about carousing of gods of Heaven in her manifestation as False Apollo, Bacchus, Jove and Venus. New lyrics Director, Assyrian Universal Tur key Assyria Alliance . . . 2000. The Assyrian Liberty as one of the prevailing spirits in were added to popular tunes as Maryland’s flag is designed with a white our culture.” state song uses O Tanenbaum or Oh Christ- background on which three wav- “Dominating the landscape of Birming- mas Tree. US puts the spirit of the pagan gods ing stripes emerge from each cor- ham for most of the 20th century was a to work again. ner of a center design which is in large statue of the demon Vulcan . . . 56 feet the shape of a four headed star. At tall; 180 feet including his pedestal. He is Idols in All National Holidays & Flags its center, the star encompasses a the largest cast iron statue in the world. He So you can see why all holidays are idola- golden circle representing Sha- was built to represent the state of Alabama trous, stemming from past idol worship. The mash the Assyrian sun-god who at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. days retain the same theme just modernized was believed to give life to all “In 1930, Vul- and slightly changed to fit the nation. things on earth.” Kashmir Party colored stars Know Your War Planes can was rescued Demons rule the nations disguised as pagan “Hovering over the star and the from the fair gods, setting up their own holidays opposed emblem of Shamash there is a rep- grounds and to God. resentation of the image of god placed on a 124- This 3-part study of flags came from Ashur the ancient Assyrian su- foot pedestal on research on US holidays; all are for worship preme deity. The emblem of the side of Red of gods as other nations. Can a good holiday Ashur features the deity standing Mountain from come from an idolatrous nation steeped in in a circle with two eagle wings which he over- pagan gods, naming products after them or spanning and over stretching its looks the city. In proudly displaying them? Sports teams length on two sides. Ashur has drawn a bow God who accom- 1946 he was giv- named badly as top college team the Duke and his arrow is ready to fly.” pany Washington en an interesting Blue Devils. The new flag continues old ideas. Sun god in his assump- job. His torch was For the most part, the fact that all worldly Shamash represented by golden circle at tion, but the fe- fitted with a large holidays are for pagan gods has been kept star’s center and sun circle within star is male figures of neon light, which secret. Why? Most COG writers favoring reverse of Soviet Air Force. Also, god Ashur Liberty and Victory. (Liberty/Minerva and glows green most some holidays have not done their home- shown among eagle wings as if he is an eagle. Winged Victory/Nike are very prevalent in of the time, but work or fairly debated. Otherwise they Eagle aspect corresponds with US as sun the civic iconography of the U.S. and are glows red when would have come across how idolatrous all god, and stars replaced former Eye known for often pictured together) . . . there has been a holidays are, for pagan gods just by reading sun god. “Around the edge of the dome are painted traffic fatality. Red, about holidays in the same books they cite Kashmir sun face flag 530-1320 AD: 6 groups of figures representing war, com- of course, would against others. Reeks of hypocrisy. Hardly “This flag has a yellow Sun in the center of a merce, marine, agriculture, science and be the natural proving all things. blue ground with multiple Zafrani (safron mechanics. Included in these groups of fig- color of a torch Even if they came to the conclusion that color) rays. The sun was painted with black ures are the false gods Mercury, Neptune, and this function some are all right to observe, they should to show the eyes, nose and lips of the Sun. Ceres, Minerva and Vulcan [portrayed aiding is especially inter- have addressed why the negative aspects This flag clearly represents the people’s affil- US heroes]. esting in light of Vulcan’s association with were somehow not bad enough to stop obser- iations to sun god. Many kings and dynasties “In 1841 a twelve ton marble statue of Mollech [known for child sacrifice, pass vance. Instead silence, except for perhaps changed during this period but all of them Washington . . . was modeled on the famous through fire] . . . one of the earliest labor commercialism. UCG could have reported on retained it as the official flag of the country statue of the seated Zeus in his temple at unions there was called the ‘Sons of this earlier but rejected the data. The only and many of them kept it high.” Olympia, sculpted by Pheidias . . . A small Vulcan.’ ” Free Indeed website good rest days are Sabbaths. It is safe just to “After the conversion of Kashmir into a figure of Winged Victory (Nike) is included She tells of a fifth in size replica of Statue keep Sabbaths (weekly and annual) and avoid Muslim state, the need for the change of flag with Washington, as with Pheidias’ original. of Liberty and 2nd in size overall known holidays since many are already known to be was felt as majority of the population has On the base . . . is Apollo. The eagle was locally as ‘Vulcan’s Girlfriend’ in plain view idolatrous. adopted Islam as a faith . . . yellow sun was Zeus’ special symbol . . . Lincoln memorial of him 33 years. Now in Liberty Park by In part 1, US history told of crosses, stars retained as such . . . [Later in 1947:] Green is modeled after the Olympian Temple of Vulcan Materials company and regional for All-Seeing-Eye or sun god and Satan’s and yellow colors of the earlier flags were Zeus.” headquarters of Boy Scouts. Her torch burns image of rattlesnake. Part 2 showed modern retained, sun was replaced by the crescent On west coast a huge statue of witchcraft natural gas perpetually. Israelite flags, mostly crosses (as 3 of and star.” © 2001 Kashmir Record & Re- goddess Hecate watches over Portland, She cites Pittsburgh at night by Captain Britain), substitutes for stars of false worship; search Council Oregon, office buildings with trident and 6- Willard Glazier 1855: “It is as though one as Canada’s Trinity Maple Leaf, grotesque Sun, star or moon replaces each other. point star. had reached the outer edge of the infernal things (as Green Man) on government build- Horizontal stripes stand for sun rays though Raymond McNair’s book Ascent to regions and saw before him the great furnace ings; and dragon entrance ‘guards’ and flags. changed to green (sunlight contains all col- Greatness (1976) has glowing terms for US of Pandemonium with all the lids lifted . . . After 9-11 many US COG members began ors); crescent and 5-point star instead of sun. idols as east coast idol of Statue of Liberty! the tortured spirits writhing in agony, their proudly displaying the US flag on their web- “Paganism has always showed its trinities Seems to be mentality of major COGs claim- sinewy limbs convulsed and the very air sites or on poles in concrete in their yard. It’s in art by the sun (with a face) representing the ing greatness of US as if God blessed it for its oppressive with pain and rage . . . This is the time for them to get rid of their flag idols! male sun god, the moon (with a face) repre- righteousness and promoting freedom so its domain of Vulcan . . . this gigantic workshop Someone might claim the US flag is not senting the moon goddess (or queen of heav- ‘secular’ holidays are good. This despite in the midst of the materials of his labor, the worshiped—who bows down to it? Yet same en) and the all-seeing eye representing their plainly idolatrous ‘religious’ ones; actually god of fire, having left his ancient home on could be said of a Christmas tree yet it is still offspring.” Evangelical Truth all are for false gods. Thus ministers instead Olympus and established himself in this an idol. Both idols of the heart (Eze 6:9; 14:3- Smiling sun is a pagan symbol meaning of exposing great idolatry, embraced it. US newer world, stretches himself beside his 8; 20:16 Israel polluted My Sabbaths, as US re-birth of a pagan god used before Christ, was blessed for Abraham’s righteousness, not forge and sleeps the peaceful sleep which is does). later for His resurrection continuing sun its own; and its freedom means free to sin as the reward of honest industry. Israelites invented their own holy days in worship. ban Bibles out of schools. “Right at his doorway are mountains of opposition to God (1 K 12:32-33). Sound The New Colossus poem on Statue of coal to keep a perpetual fire upon his altar; familiar? What was wrong with God’s Sab- US Graven Images; Vulcan Liberty pedestal compares her with Helios within the reach of his outstretched grasp are baths that they should want other annual In US Pantheons (Journal #66) I described the sun god, Colossus of Rhodes whose rayed rivers of coal oil; and a little further away days? Pagans change the truth into a lie; wor- pagan gods on national buildings. Here’s crown she copied. Also calls her Mother of great stores of iron for him to forge and weld, ship, reverence and serve created objects Pamela Simpson’s view: “I’ve been doing exiles, same as Isis and original Mother of and shape into a thousand forms; and at his more than the Creator (Rom 1:25). [work] for a while on the identification of Mother’s Day. Pagan custom in April was to feet is the shining river, an impetuous Keeping holidays and proudly displaying George Washington with false gods in the fast. Then May Day celebrated sun’s birth (in Mercury, ever ready to do his bidding. national flags actually serve the devil (De civic iconography of the United States.” spring of year, later as Easter for Christ). May Grecian mythology never conceived of an 32:17-19). Holidays mean fellowshiping with “[I] started by studying the statues, paint- Day urged fertility and sex and thus month abode so fitting for the son of Zeus as that demons, not God (1 Co 10:20-22). Thanks- ings and architecture of public and gov- for mothers and Mother’s Day. which he has selected for himself on this giving Day or any other rest day to try to ernment monuments. I came to the conclu- A 5-point star represents orbit of Venus or western hemisphere. And his ancient tasks honor Him does the opposite (Ex 32:1-10 sion that most of these were graven images the planet itself. As Morning star it was were child’s play compared with the mighty precedent of setting up such a day). and that at a certain point patriotism known as goddess of battle, hunting and ones he has undertaken today.” [email protected]

Soviet Air Force by Jaume Ollé © 1998 Flags of the World • Know Your War Planes © Coca-Cola Co.

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An Open Letter to All Husbands in the Church of God A reminder from Church of God Is God Pleased With Our Marriages? Big Sandy y wife and I came into God’s church in 1968. I seminar. I thought to myself that maybe she would learn was 21 and my wife was 19. The only thing we something that would help her to be a better wife, and Mknew about marriage was taught to us by this maybe there was an outside chance I could get some world. The husband’s responsi- material for a sermonette. bility was to “bring home the So I went with my wife and listened for 10 hours about a bacon.” The wife was to stay husband’s responsibility to be Christ-like to his wife. I home and raise the children. came away from the seminar so embarrassed I could The only instruction we received from the Church was hardly look my wife in the eye. God, through this mar- through marriage sermons, and riage seminar, had shown me what a fraud I was. To call Virgins of Light this was only 2 or 3 times a year. myself a Christian husband was an insult to Jesus Christ. The scripture “My people are destroyed for lack of knowl- What is Biblical light? Jesus said let your light shine before men Back in those days it was not proper to go “outside” the edge” became very clear to me. Because of ignorance, I (Matthew 5:16). church to learn anything “lest was systematically destroying my wife’s love for me, and, Job said the light of the wicked shall be put out (Job 18:5). we be led astray.” We were basically left to fend for our- at the same time, I had been teaching my children, The writer of Proverbs said the light of the righteous rejoiceth selves. So it was no surprise to anyone when we heard through my bad example, how to carry on the sins of their father to the next generation. (Proverbs 13:9), but whoso curseth his father or mother, his lamp that the number one problem in the church was mar- shall be put out in obscure darkness (Proverbs 20:20). riage. Has anything changed? My wife and I signed up for Ken Nair’s marriage class. It was a college-level course that required attending every God is light (1John 1:5). Looking back over the years, I believe we received so few marriage sermons because the ministers, themselves, had Monday night for three years. It was a huge commitment, In Matthew Chapter 25 the Kingdom of Heaven is likened to 10 vir- such poor marriages that they didn’t want to have to look but was priceless in terms of what we learned, and it gins which took lamps to meet the Bridegroom. Five had lamps of their wives in the eye while they gave a “how to have a changed our lives. Because of what I’ve learned, I’ve recom- light, five had lamps that were dark. happy marriage” sermon. The sermons were basically mitted my life to be a Christ-like leader to my wife and love Do you carry a lamp? What type of light does it display? Virgins of reminding the wives to be submissive. For years I tried to her as Christ would love her, holding nothing back. Light is our new study guide. Write for your copy. improve my marriage by reminding my wife of the scrip- We in the Church are so focused on Satan’s attack tures that demand this. I don’t know about you, but this through heresy that we’ve left the back door wide open Ministry Publications never worked for me. It was like throwing gasoline on a for Satan to attack us through our marriages. Are we fire. My wife and I struggled for years with our own rela- spending as much time seeking out ways to improve our P. O . B o x 715 tionship. Of course no one knew this because, being a marriages as we are trying to prove doctrine? Husbands, deacon, I made sure that my wife put on her “Happy Cottonwood, AZ 86326 USA when we stand before God and his judgment do you Face” before we went to church. I had to be sure she think he’s going to be impressed with the amount of didn’t tarnish my image. time we’ve spent on our computers doing word studies? About seven years ago my wife asked me to go to a I think he would be more impressed with how much marriage seminar put on by a man named Ken Nair. He time we’ve spent learning how to care and love our wives Why Do You Transgress the had written two books, Discovering the Mind of a Woman and children. and Discovering the Heart of a Man. I first argued, “How My wife and I have been applying what we’ve learned for Commandments of God, And Keep can this man teach me anything? He’s not even a five years now, and we shared this knowledge with others Sabbath-keeper and knows nothing about the Holy days.” the F.O.T. on (10-11-03) by Jewish by presenting a seminar on marriage. If you’re interested, We have since come to the understanding that this was a we have the seminar on tape. It’s yours free for the asking. Tradition, And Reject Christ’s very naive stand to take. I reluctantly agreed to go to the Send your request to one of the addresses below. Command to Keep His F.O.T. on (11-9-03)? (Mat. 15:3-9) Wayne and Claudia Speed WHOM WILL YOU OBEY— 1313 N. 25th Ave. • Phoenix, AZ 85009 • E-mail: [email protected] SATAN OR CHRIST? Send for FREE Literature at Truth Publications 5861 Geddes Rd. • Ypsilanti, MI 48198 A DIVIDED CHURCH Receive answers to life’s questions from scripture at: Is Not of God! http://AskYourBible.com he Church of God certainly Revelation 3:11? And to what are we seems to have become splin- to hold fast? Advertising deadline Ttered and divided more than What is the right form of govern- Contact Darlene Warren at Dial in [email protected] or (903) 636-4470 to at any other time in its history. There ment for God’s Church? Does this check on the deadline for the current issue and to place your ad today. are almost as many groups of God’s even make any difference to Jesus for . . . Church as there are protestant Christ, the Head of the Church? “A Virtual“ Churches of this world. But why is What does God’s Word say about New the Church divided? Who should be Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong? Was he “Church” Testament held accountable for this division? used to teach us true doctrines or was Live Every Tour plus Are we in the Laodicean era? he also off track? Did he put the Sabbath Noah’s Ark The three largest splinter groups Church back on track in the late he Biblical Archaeology from the Worldwide Church of God 1970’s and early 1980’s? And just 11 am Pacific Time Foundation along with Marv and TRenetta Wilson and Micha Ashkenazi (renowned tour guide and believe that preaching the gospel is what do you mean off track? Where 1 pm Central archaeologist) is sponsoring an exciting tour of New Testament sites paramount. Should that be our main was the Church off the track? What 2 pm Eastern in Greece and Turkey. The date of this special tour will be June 10-23, focus while the Church remains does the near future hold for us? 2004. Sites to be visited will include Call Athens (Mars Hill and the Acropolis), divided? These and many other questions ancient Corinth, Berea, Thesaloniki, Philippi, Kavala (Neapolis), the Isle of Which group, if any, is truly hold- are answered in our booklet: “The 918-222-7158 Patmos, and Delphi in modern day Greece. In Turkey, we will visit ing fast as instructed by Christ in Work of God In The Laodicean Era.” Istanbul and the remains of the 7 Check website for church areas talked about in Revelation. A highlight of our Turkey coming topics and visit will be a trip to the mountains of Ararat and what is believed to be the Stedfast Church of God speakers remains of Noah’s Ark. The tour will include many other sites and histori- P.O. Box 1545 • McMinnville, OR 97128 • (503) 472-2277 cal areas plus wonderful food and www.godward.org shopping. Please call for a packet of Fax (503) 472-8877 • E-mail [email protected] • www.StedfastCOG.org information at 972-382-3220 or e-mail [email protected].

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For a Divided Church God Wants Unity

oday, God’s Church is divided, fragmented us from the ways of this world. We are to live by We had an end-time apostle that taught us about and in much disarray. All one needs to do is His standard, His Way of life (II Corinthians 6:17). the two trees in the Garden of Eden. He showed us Tread this Journal to see that division. We The spiritual family always take precedence where Adam had to make a choice, a decision. That need to understand how the Church became this over the physical family. That’s why Christ makes choice has affected the future of all mankind since. way and how to once again have real unity. it clear we must put Him first if we are going to be Adam’s decision has affected you and me. The Church is the house of God (Ephesians a disciple (student) of His (Luke 14:26-33). These God gives us free moral agency to make choic- 2:19). It is supposed to be united and compacted verses should always be explained thoroughly to es, the prerogative to make our own decisions. But together (Ephesians 4:11-16). Jesus Christ tells us: those seeking baptism. He encourages man to make right decisions for his “And if a house be divided against itself, that But for us already called and placed into His own good (Deuteronomy 30:15, 19). house cannot stand” (Mark 3:25). Division in the Church, God definitely wants us to be united Brethren, do we in God’s Church realize what Church today is not of God. He wants unity. together (Ephesians 4:1-6). We must be speaking God’s apostle, Mr. Armstrong, was trying to tell Jesus does mention God’s way of life may very the same things (I Corinthians 1:10). Unity is a us? Do we yet fully understand every decision we well divide families, even those closest to us good and pleasant thing for brethren to enjoy make, no matter how big or small, is based on one (Matthew 10:36). On one hand, Jesus says a divid- (Psalm 133:1-3). of those two trees? ed house cannot stand, but then on the other, He Jesus stated this same desire for unity in His One tree, the Tree of Life, leads to eternal life in says there will be division within a house. This prayer for His disciples. He included us in His the Kingdom of God. The other tree, the Tree of the sounds like a no-win situation! In Luke He says: prayer: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for Knowledge of Good and Evil, ends in eternal “Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on them also which shall believe on me through their death. It is the Tree of Death. Do we understand earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: word; the significance of our daily choices? God makes “For from henceforth there shall be five in one “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art this quite clear: house divided, three against two, and two against in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in “See, I have set before thee this day life and three. us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent good, and death and evil; “The father shall be divided against the son, me. “In that I command thee this day to love the and the son against the father; the mother against “And the glory which thou gavest me I have LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep the daughter, and the daughter against the moth- given them; that they may be one, even as we are his commandments and his statutes and his judg- er; the mother in law against her daughter in law, one: ments, that thou mayest live . . . and the daughter in law against her mother in “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be “I call heaven and earth to record this day law” (Luke 12:51-53). made perfect in one; and that the world may know against you, that I have set before you life and In these verses He is speaking of the physical that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, family. When one is put into the spiritual family of thou hast loved me” (John 17:20-23). that both thou and thy seed may live: God, the Church (I Corinthians 12:13), it may well Jesus said He and His Father are ONE (John “That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, cause division within the physical family. 10:30). We in God’s Church should also be united and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou Division is not of God for He wants unity, but it as ONE. We are to have the same mind Jesus mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life . . .” commonly happens to those who believe and act Christ had, the same mind of the Father: (Deuteronomy 30:15-16, 19-20). upon hearing His Word. Family members may “If there be therefore any consolation in This is what Mr. Armstrong, God’s apostle, was become enemies of a Church member (Micah 7:5- Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of trying to get us to understand those last few years 6, Matthew 10:21, Luke 21:16). the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, of his life. He kept saying over and over to us: When initially converted, you and I made the “Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having “Brethren! I don’t think most of you get it, and decision to come out of this world, spiritual Egypt. the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. that includes most of you ministers” (Pentecost We began to live a different lifestyle patterned after “Let this mind be in you, which was also in sermon, 1985). Time has proven he was right with God’s Way of life. We now think and act different- Christ Jesus:” (Philippians 2:1-2, 5). that statement. The divided and splintered Church ly than relatives and people of this world. We pur- Is the Church today of the same mind as God the today is proof positive that most of us, including sue different goals than before conversion. Father and Jesus Christ? No, we are not! Being the ministry, truly did not “Get it.” Do we even Although we continue to live in this world, we divided and splintered into various groups is posi- now fully grasp what he was saying? Do we “Get are not to be part of it (John 17:14-17). We worship tive proof many are not of the same mind as they, it”? Apparently most do not. God differently. God says we are not to mix this else we would be united together as one. SHAME Why are we in God’s Church today divided? world’s ways with His (II Corinthians 6:14-17, ON US!! The Church needs to repent of being And just who is Jesus Christ holding accountable James 4:4, I John 2:15). These differences cause divided, among many other things. for this division? Finally, how can we become unit- alienation from friends and family. Divided homes Now, in order for us to become united once ed once again? These questions will be answered in have been the natural result. The Bible says two again, we must first learn what caused the Church the future ads. Meanwhile, please request our eye- cannot walk together unless they are in agreement to be divided and fractured in such a short time opening booklet “The Work of God in the (Amos 3:3). after the death of Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong? Laodicean Era.” It explains why, and how to This principle applies to everyone, even those This division is an effect. There is a cause for solve, the division in God’s Church today in sim- closest to us, our immediate family members. If we every effect. This is a principle taught to us by Mr. ple, understandable terms. are truly striving to live God’s Way, it will separate Armstrong. —Arlen Berkey

“Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown” (Rev. 3:11). Stedfast Church of God “Therefore, brethren, stand fast, hold the traditions which you have been P.O. Box 1545 • McMinnville, OR 97128 • Telephone (503) 472-2277 taught, whether by word, or our epistle” (II Thes. 2:15). Fax (503) 472-8877 • E-mail [email protected] • www.StedfastCOG.org

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The 7 Churches, 7 Days of Unleavened Bread, and the 7 Weeks’ Journey to Pentecost By Brian Convery P. O. Box 316 • Kendall, NY 14476 • [email protected] • http://steve.bruns.com/brianconvery.html • Edited 9/26/03 Our Peace We Give to You [My comments within quotes will be actions of men. God is very clear and any aspect of it with that of another aroma to Me,” at their appointed times. within brackets.] direct in what He wants us to do. His appointed time or day, as verse 37 so So why is nothing mentioned here? oday we are going to cover a instructions to those who are called are clearly tells us. This is a very sobering lesson to the subject which I have brought up the difference between life and death in My purpose today isn’t to badger any- Church here in these chapters. It is a T in many studies of the past but metaphorical terms. one on what day or for that matter how wake-up call to all of us about the bick- did not elaborate on at the time. Christ told us He will never leave nor they keep the Passover. We, however, ering and deceit which has engulfed the It is directly tied to the time setting we forsake us. That is a promise which has need to spend a little time on this subject Body of Christ today in regard to the currently find ourselves going through, not, and never will, wane. He has left a to show there is a reason why the Passover of the Lord. that being the 49 day count, or, as we will record of what we are to know and do in Passover of the Lord is separate from the No burnt offering we can come up see journey, to the Feast of Pentecost and the pages of the Bible. God has given us seven days of Unleavened Bread. with is acceptable as His food or as a the marriage of Christ. This was a seven appointed times to meet with Him. Each has its own significance in the sweet aroma to God on this day, the 14th week journey for ancient Israel, and that Leviticus 23 lists them. God has given us plan of salvation and must not be mixed. of Abib. journey and time setting hold many the visual means to know when each one I am going to offer up a point which It is set aside, reserved, for one sacri- lessons for the Church of God to under- of these appointed times is. It is our very few considered when formulating fice and offering made by fire alone. It is stand. Some are positive and should be responsibility to complete the command their belief on this subject of great debate reserved for the Lamb of God, the very to proclaim these very specific times of encouraging, some are negative and in the Church. Creator of Heaven and Earth and all that public rehearsal, of sustained communi- should be avoided. I have often men- is in them. That is He who is known as cation, at the very time God says to do so. That point is simply this. There is only tioned that the lessons taught in Rev. 2 one offering made by fire on the 14th of the Word of God, the I am, the Son of God did not and does not want any and 3 pertaining to the 7 Churches are Abib. You do not find it listed here in God, Jesus the Christ and many other mixing of these days or appointed times. intricately tied to these lessons learned Leviticus 23. In fact, you don’t find it names, but to our salvation He is preem- and presented to Israel on this journey. God is so specific about this that He actu- inent as the Lamb of God. ally gives us the month and specific day listed in Numbers 28 and 29, either. But So, too, are the lessons learned from the you do learn something very educational He is the only Lamb acceptable as a 7 days of UB. As we are aware, this 49 that each is to occur. As far as the week- ly Sabbath goes, that travels through there as to this sacrifice. sacrifice and offering made by fire, on day count always starts on the Sunday this day, to the Eternal. which falls during the 7 days of UB. every month. He also tells us there are In numbers 28 and 29 we find the appointed times for the offerings made Let this sink in deep. It is written for To even suggest as some have that specific things to be done on each of these specific days which were used in by fire. Numbers 28:2 tells us: us, the called of God, those who are try- there is no relevancy between what takes 2: Command the children of Israel and ing to understand God’s meaning and place in the 7 Churches of Revelation honoring and worshiping God. In Leviticus 23:37 we read: say to them, My offering, My food purpose for these appointed times so that and the 7 days of attempting to be leav- for My offerings made by fire as a we can worship God in spirit and in truth. en-free and the count of 7 weeks to the 37: These are appointed times of the sweet aroma to Me, you shall be Yes, to us who have received the spirit of Feast of Firstfruits is to deny the spirit of Lord which you shall proclaim loud- careful \[#8104, shamar, keep, ly, holy public rehearsals of sustained God, so that we can understand the prophecy and a sound mind. watch, preserve] to offer to Me at things of God. As 1 Corinthians 2 tells communication [or worship] between their appointed time. So today we are going to study just God and those He has called by us, it is the word of God written right some of these relevancies and patterns in name, to offer an offering made by Once again a very clear warning from here in the Bible that tell us when and a broad overview of the subject. These fire to the Lord, a burnt offering and God not to mix up the times on which how to keep and proclaim the appointed scriptures and patterns reveal truths of a grain offering, a sacrifice and drink burnt offerings are to be made. times of God each on its own day. God and hopefully will help us all gain a offerings, everything on its day. God goes on to instruct Moses and God tells us right here that the better understanding of what God Here God has clearly told us and thus ourselves of the specific burnt offer- Passover of the Lord is on the 14th day of expects of us personally and as a body warned us that these very special days ings and their appointed times. Abib. That means every function of it. It and why over the millennia the Church which He has appointed have very spe- In these verses He instructs Moses that doesn’t overlap with any other day, no goes through so much pain and shortness cial sacrifices and burnt offerings which there are regular burnt offerings each mixing whatsoever. In fact, we are of critical understanding. must be done on the exact day God has evening and morning. instructed often that it does not start until For us to gain a better understanding appointed. That is, two of them on each day: one after sunset. of the lessons we learn under the second I mention this at the beginning of this in the evening and one in the morning. Let’s see why God has done this. covenant are to learn and teach, we must study because of its importance to the That is, one after sunset and one after There is only one account in the Old have a sound understanding of what took called of God. We are not to mix the days sunrise. Testament which clearly and thoroughly place with Israel under the first covenant. or the burnt offering sacrificed on their The instruction here goes on to tell us tells us of the Passover of the Lord, its In regard to the subject today we need specific day with that of another day. what specific sacrifices were to be setting, the day, and the sacrifice and to understand 2 very important keys The next verse we are going to read is offered on the weekly Sabbath, New offering made by fire of that day. before we proceed with it. very representative of that command, but Moon, Unleavened Bread, Firstfruits, It is found in Exodus 12. Let’s read Number 1. I have translated the full in the Church today is a source of much Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles and verses 5-10. I will be reading from J.P. meaning of the word miqra (convoca- interpretation and pain: interpretation of the Last Great Day. On each of these they Green’s Interlinear Bible. men and pain to the called of God. tion) throughout so we can gain a clearer were also to offer the regular burnt offer- 5: A flock animal, a male without blem- understanding of what God is saying. To Leviticus 23: ings also. ish, a yearling, shall be to you. You limit this word to “convocation” is a 5: On the fourteenth of the first month at Now, no doubt some of you are saying shall take from the sheep or from the twilight is the Lord’s Passover. great injustice to God’s intent. Leviticus he missed one: Passover! goats. 23:4-8: Brethren are now fighting and arguing 6: And it shall be for you to keep until amongst themselves, individually and as No, I didn’t, brethren. For in this thor- 4: These are the appointed times of the ough delineation of which burnt offer- [that is the Hebrew word “ad” which Lord, holy public rehearsals of sus- groups, over which day one must keep as means “up to” or “even to”] the four- the Passover of the Lord. Some say the ings are to be offered at their appointed teenth day of this month. And all the tained communication between God times we read nothing about the Passover and those He has called out by name 14th, some the 15th. There are those who assembly of the congregation of which we individually as well as col- say the 13th and some who say we don’t of the Lord except the following: Israel shall kill it between the lectively shall proclaim loudly at have to keep it at all. 16: On the fourteenth day of the first evenings. their appointed times. month is the Passover of the Lord. 7: And they shall take from the blood, Well, brethren, I guess I am a Simple and put it on the two side doorposts That is probably a little different than Simon, for I believe what God has writ- Now, I hope our minds are swimming what’s written in your Bible. But that is in thoughts over this. and on the upper doorpost, on the ten. He tells me here and in countless houses in which they eat it. the meaning and intent of the Hebrew Verse 16 does not mention any of the other scriptures that the Passover of the 8: And they shall eat the flesh [My words written here. Lord is on the 14th day of the first month. regular burnt offerings or any other, does food] in this night [which night? The The instruction given in verse 4 is crit- Thus all His commanded functions, sac- it? only one ever mentioned in the Bible, ical to our relationship with God. God is rifices, and burnt offerings for the But these are the chapters in which the 14th of Abib], roasted with fire not the author of confusion; the Devil is, Passover are to be conducted on the 14th God gives us specific instructions as to [start of the offering made by fire], and he manifests it in the thoughts and day, period, no other! No mixing with what is His “food, My offerings, a sweet CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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3: They departed from Rameses in the found herself traveling through the land- often, brethren, have we fallen into doubt first month on the fifteenth day of the scape of the surrounding territory of and fear about the way of life we have 7 Churches first month; the day after the Egypt. been called to and which we have will- Passover the children of Israel went ingly accepted? How often have we felt out with boldness in the sight of all In Numbers 33:5-9 we can read the CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE the Egyptians. following sequence of events: we are in a wilderness alone, apart from and they shall eat it with unleavened On the 15th she traveled from what seems appealing to the eye? How bread and bitter herbs [Hebrew: with Now let’s sum this up. They came out often have we stumbled and sinned? bitterness]. of Egypt on the night of the 15th of Abib. Rameses and camped at Succoth. She Thus that is not the Passover, for on the was now a true sojourner living in tem- Christ says to us at these times of test- 9: Do not eat it raw, or at all boiled in ing and possible weakness: Do not be water, but roasted with fire; its head Passover of the Lord they had to kill the porary dwellings. No longer was she in with its legs and with its inward parts. lamb, put the blood on their doorposts, Pharaoh’s presence and under his influ- afraid, move forward, don’t look back to sin, but be vigilant and focus on the Lord 10: And you shall not leave any of it until roast the lamb, eat it, burn its remains ence. morning. And you shall burn with fire before morning, and, yes, not come out On the 16th of Abib she left Succoth for He will help in the fight. In fact, He that left from it until morning [the of their homes until morning (Boqer, and camped at Etham on the edge of the will never test us with more than we can finish of the offering made by fire]. “sunrise” or “dawn”). wilderness. She was not yet ready to face endure. But be absolutely sure, brethren, we will be tested, often and hard, for He We have just read God’s account that Now that has to be the 14th just as God that yet; that is, the true wilderness. took place on the night of His Passover. has a purpose for us and we must prove says throughout the Bible. So, God’s On the 17th they left Etham and ourselves worthy of it. Here is the offering made by fire of the word does not mix any of the things of camped near Migdol. This is so symbol- 14th of Abib. one appointed time with another just as ic of what was about to happen to them. In chapter 15 we learn that after Israel We are commanded not to mix up, He says. There is no confusion from God They were about to pass from the fortress summoned the courage to pass through confuse, or swap these commanded on this point. He does not mix His of Egypt to the pillar of the Lord. the Red Sea that God had a great victory over sin. things to another appointed time of God appointed times or the required sacrifices On the 18th of Abib they left there and in any way, shape, or form. These sacri- or functions to be conducted on each. passed through the midst of the sea and Here Israel was symbolically baptized, fices and appointed times of God are When an annual Holy Day or new moon went 3 days’ journey in the wilderness of but then was immediately tested without very important to our understanding of falls on a weekly Sabbath or any combi- Etham and camped at Marah. So here we finding water for 3 days, and when they the plan of salvation and the Church’s nation thereof, God clearly delineates see the 18th, 19th and 20th of Abib con- did it was bitter. participation in it. that in Numbers 28 and 29. sumed. In relevant terms those days were Do we have enough stores of water to These scriptures tell us that on the All this is very important to be able to the 4th, 5th, and 6th days of UB. But now carry us through such times, brethren? same night the lamb was killed, it was understand the intended spiritual lessons on the 21st of Abib they moved from What do we do when we are faced with eaten, and made to be an offering made we who are under the New Covenant are Marah, the place of bitterness, to Elim, only bitter water? Would we drink it and by fire. All on the same night. required to function by. the place of 12 springs of water and 70 taint ourselves in desperation, or would Verse 11 tells us it is the Lord’s With this said let’s go back to Le- palm trees. we be vigilant and wait on the Lord, Passover, all in the same night, the 14th. viticus 23 to see what the second impor- The spiritual significance of these drawing on our reserves? God is not the author of confusion. tant point is before we get into the pattern springs and trees and the number of each Once again Israel was tested and once On the night of the Lord’s Passover, of the scriptures about 7 days of UB, 7 on the last day of UB should be racing again she murmured. It was after this Israel was not to leave the household of weeks’ count to Pentecost, and the 7 through our thoughts. These 7 days of that God said to Israel in verse 26 of their fathers. If the firstborn did, the Churches of Revelation. UB here were times of great testing and chapter 15: blood of the lamb would not protect them Let’s start in verse 6: joy for Israel. Much of it was very diffi- 26: If you diligently heed the voice of the from the death angel which was to pass 6: And on the fifteenth day of the same cult. Remember how this journey started. Lord your God and do what is right in month is the appointed time of Exodus 12:41-42: His sight, give ear to His command- over at midnight. Verse 22 tells us: ments, and keep all His statues, I will Unleavened Bread to the Lord. Seven 41: And it came to pass at the end of the 22: And take a bunch of hyssop and dip put none of the diseases on you days you MUST eat unleavened bread. four hundred and thirty years, on that in the blood which is in the basin. which I have brought on the Egyp- very same day, it came to pass that all And apply some of the blood in the This function is not a choice. We are tians. For I am the Lord who heals the armies of the Lord went out from basin to the upper doorpost and to the commanded to eat UB for 7 days. This is you. side doorposts. And you shall not go the land of Egypt [15th, Numbers the big lesson that is to be understood by He then blessed them at Elim with out anymore from the door of his those called of God. We have to eat 33:3]. house until morning. 42: It is a night of vigilant watching rest, and 12 springs of water, and 70 palm unleavened bread for all seven days. It is trees on the 7th day of UB. Without this sacrifice of the Lamb of our responsibility to remove all leaven- [#8107] to the Lord [no longer God, we would not have received His Pharaoh] for bringing them out of the Keep in mind the 12 pillars and the 70 ing immediately when we find it or land of Egypt [Deuteronomy 16:1]. shed blood on the doorposts of our mind remove ourselves from its presence. That Elders of Exodus 24 of the feast of This is that night of the Lord of vigi- Pentecost at Mt. Sinai. which allows the spirit of God to be is it in a nutshell. We are of the Firstborn lant watching [#8107] for all the chil- available to us which then leads us in the or of His body, and we must not tolerate dren of Israel throughout their gener- There are many more events in which process of trying to maintain the unleav- sin in that body if we are to become the ations. we could read about the testings of Israel, ened state we have received from Christ. firstfruits. Why vigilant watching? Because sin is as well as the blessings they received The Passover of the Lord sets the stage Verses 7-8: sure to follow, and if we are not watching during these 7 days of UB as well as the for us to thus come out and participate in 7: On the first day [15th] you shall have the Lord vigilantly it will overtake us and 7 weeks count to Pentecost which started the process of unleavening and maintain- a holy public rehearsal of sustained destroy us. Thus this is an important les- on the 4th day of the 7. Do not forget that ing that state for 7 more days. communication with God. You shall son we are to learn. is also the day they crossed the Red Sea, a day of great victory over sin. It is rep- That unleavening is very instructive to do no customary work on it. In Exodus 13 we read about the events us, the Church. The very specific ap- 8: But you shall offer an offering made resentative of the day of the wave sheaf surrounding the 15th, 16th and 17th of offering. Christ gained a great victory pointed times for it in the scriptures are by fire to the Lord for seven days Abib or, as we know them here, the 1st, the 15th through the 21st of the first [these are spelled out in Numbers over death that day as He was accepted 28:17-25]. The seventh day as well is 2nd and 3rd days of UB. by God the Father into eternal life. month. We must not confuse the lessons a holy public rehearsal of sustained It is important to note that on the 15th of this unleavened bread with that of the So did Israel remain leaven-free dur- communication with God. You shall of Abib, the 1st day of the appointed time ing these 7 days? unleavened bread of Passover. One was do no customary work. of Unleavened Bread, God instructed done on our behalf by the Lamb of God, We are to learn many lessons from the Moses to teach Israel about His laws of Physically, maybe; but spiritually, no the other is done by us, the Church, in keeping of these 7 days of UB. They are the firstborn. There was an assembly on way. trying to maintain that state made possi- to be all kept, leaven-free. That takes a this holy day in which Israel received When they allowed spiritual leaven to ble and given to us by Christ, a perfect lot of effort individually and collectively. that instruction. Its fundamentals were: move in, God gave them help and even at man, so we can attain to the measure of It takes a great deal of personal involve- God owned all the firstborn and they times fought for them. His stature and fullness. ment. No one else can do it for us, but we were not to eat (take in) any leavened All this is symbolic of what God is Let me play the fool to some of you for can help one another in accomplishing bread. (Beware of the leaven of the doing for the New Covenant Church. a moment. the task. Pharisees and the Sadducees or their doc- Not all of Israel was fearful and not all To me the 15th of Abib represents the Christ had already died for our sins the trine, Matthew 16:6, 12). wanted to return to sin. But the vast start of the 7 days of Unleavened Bread, day before on the 14th, the Passover of In chapter 14 we see that God hard- majority did stumble over it. We must not and the start of the individual march the Lord. He had become our perfect, ened Pharaoh’s heart so that he would forget that Israel was not alone in this away from sin and maintaining that state unleavened sacrifice. He had become a pursue them. Israel was tested at that journey. Exodus 12:38 says: by remaining vigilant as to sin’s presence sweet-smelling aroma to the Father. time. She was tested throughout these 7 38: A mixed multitude went up with and its ability to hide. Christ started the unleavened process for days of UB to see if she would remain them also. [If you are not familiar I read in Deuteronomy 16:1 that Israel us. So now His body, His Church, must vigilant and watchful. with this, refer to our study on the started out of Egypt by night: keep leaven out for 7 days, or for 7 Pharaoh overtook her on the 4th day Mixed Multitude and the Tares.] 1: Observe the month of Abib, and keep Church eras, or for the 7 Church types and she became afraid, in fact the scrip- What effect did this mixed multitude the Passover to the Lord your God. spoken of in Revelation 2 and 3. tures tell us “very afraid.” She doubted have on Israel? Numbers 11:4: For in the month of Abib the Lord In 1 Corinthians 5:7 we read: God and His promises after all He had 4: Now the mixed multitude who were your God brought you out of Egypt 7: Therefore cleanse thoroughly [#1571 shown her and done for her. They actual- among them lusted to intense crav- by night. ekkathairo] the old leaven, that you ly wished to return to Egypt and serve in ing; so the children of Israel also Israel started their journey out of may be a new lump, since you truly bondage to Pharaoh rather than the seem- wept again and said: Who will give Egypt on the night of the 15th of Abib. are unleavened. For indeed Christ our ingly severe onslaught and hardships us meat to eat?” [Monkey see, mon- key do!] How do I come up with this? I know this Passover, was sacrificed for us. with God. This is so indicative of spiritu- cannot be the Passover for Israel could Brethren, we the members of the body al Israel, as we will see. God told Moses Here Israel not only had to deal with not come out of their homes on the night of Christ must individually continue the to instruct Israel to move forward and He their own shortcomings and weaknesses of the Passover. That we just clearly read process Christ started for us and in us, would fight for them. But she continued but also with the bad influence of those earlier. So this night talked about here in regardless of where we find ourselves in to look back and not forward, to the point amongst them who were not of Israel. 16:1 cannot be the Passover. the landscape of the Churches. she was afraid and confused and didn’t Sound familiar? It should. The NT I further read in Numbers 33:3: During Israel’s first 7 days of UB she know right from wrong desires. How CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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who are before His throne, Watch how clear and crisp His lists of fight. We live in an age where the 5: and from Jesus Christ, the faithful dos and don’ts are. Revelation 2:1-7: Nicolaitan system engulfs not only the 7 Churches witness, the firstborn from the dead, 1: To the angel of the church of Ephesus world but also the Church. These thorns and the ruler over the kings of the write, These things says He who and thistles choke the life out of many CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE earth. To Him who loved us and holds the seven stars in His right who are called. calls this equivalent “tares.” They per- washed us from our sins in His own hand, who walks in the midst of the blood, These Nicolaitans put themselves and form the same obstacle to the Church as seven golden lampstands: their doctrines between God and His the mixed multitude did to Israel. 6: and has made us kings and priests to 2: I know your works, your labor, your His God and Father, to Him be glory called. Their rules and regulations are With this under our belt let’s turn to patience, and that you cannot bear and dominion forever and ever. those who are evil. And you have more important than the word of God. the NT scriptures of 1 Corinthians 10 Amen. tested those who say they are apostles They become the focus of what is right before we go to Revelation 2 and 3. 7: Behold, He is coming with clouds, and are not, and have found them and wrong, and their followers, who are Here we learn a lot about what we and every eye will see Him, even liars; deceived, follow their evil ways. 2 have just read. they who pierced Him. And all the 3: and you have persevered and have Thessalonians 2:4: Let’s actually read verses 1-13: tribes of the earth will mourn because patience, and have labored for My 4: who opposes and exalts himself of Him. Even so, Amen. name’s sake and have not become above all that is called God or that is 1: Moreover, brethren, I do not want 8: I am the Alpha and the Omega, the weary. worshiped, so that he sits as God in you to be unaware that all our fathers Beginning and the End, says the the temple of God, showing himself were under the cloud, all passed 4: Nevertheless I have this against you, Lord, who is and who was and who is that he is God. through the sea, that you have left your first love. to come, the Almighty. 5: Remember therefore from where you Yes, these NIKA LAON, or “he who con- 2: all were baptized into Moses in the 9: I, John, both your brother and com- cloud and in the sea, have fallen; repent and do the first quers the people” are to be shown to be panion in the tribulation and kingdom works, or else I will come to you liars and not tolerated. 3: all ate the same spiritual food, and patience of Jesus Christ, was on quickly and remove your lampstand 4: and all drank the same spiritual drink. the island that is called Patmos for the Much of this should sound familiar. from its place—unless you repent. These works are commendable. They are For they drank of that spiritual Rock word of God and for the testimony of 6: But this you have, that you hate the that followed them, and that Rock Jesus Christ. a lot of work and effort. But they are not deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also enough! Revelation 2:4: was Christ. 10: I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day, hate. 5: But with most of them God was not and I heard behind me a loud voice, 4: Nevertheless I have this against you, 7: He who has an ear, let him hear what that you have left your first love. well pleased [many are called but few as of a trumpet, the Spirit says to the churches. To are chosen], for their bodies were 11: saying, I am the Alpha and the him who overcomes I will give to eat With our involvement in all the out- scattered in the wilderness. Omega, the First and the Last, and, from the tree of life, which is in the ward commendable works, we can forget 6: Now these things became our exam- What you see, write in a book and midst of the Paradise of God. about the inward ones. We can get so ples, to the intent that we should not send it to the seven churches which Brethren, can we relate to any of this? caught up in the fight for truth in Christ’s lust after evil things as they also lust- are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to name that we can forget about our very ed. Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to I know that I certainly can. Christ says: I Philadelphia, and to Laodicea. know your works (#2041, ergon). It deeply personal relationship with Him. 7: And do not become idolaters as were Our “protos agape!” some of them. As it is written, “The 12: Then I turned to see the voice that means just that, “work, employment, people sat down to eat and drink, and spoke with me. And having turned I task.” We are to be employed by our He says the Church has aphiemi, “left rose up to play.” saw seven golden lampstands, Husband the Christ. We are to be doing alone, forsaken, neglected, that love.” 8: Nor let us commit sexual immorality, 13: and in the midst of the seven lamp- the things which are pleasing to Him and Do we understand how important this as some of them did, and in one day stands One like the Son of Man, our Father. This is very personal. is to our Husband? Are we enraptured twenty-three thousand fell; clothed with a garment down to the Many deceivers over the years have with Him, with spending time with Him, 9: nor let us tempt Christ, as some of feet and girded about the chest with a inserted the meaning of another Greek not wanting to be away from Him? Do them also tempted, and were de- golden band. word for the simplicity of ergon. They we awaken in the morning with Him on stroyed by serpents; 14: His head and hair were white like say we are to be doing a #2039, ergasia, our minds, and go to sleep at night talk- 10: nor complain, as some of them also wool, as white as snow, and His eyes “a work.” They have used this to take the ing with Him? Do we let Him talk to us complained, and were destroyed by like a flame of fire; focus off those being called to Christ by during the day from His word and do we the destroyer. 15: His feet were like fine brass, as if the Father, and place it on themselves. spend time talking to Him? Is our rela- 11: Now all these things happened to refined in a furnace, and His voice as tionship so intimate that it is hard to be the sound of many waters; That same methodology is used in them as examples, and they were away for any length of time? 16: He had in His right hand seven stars, every walk of life by those who want oth- written for our admonition, upon Oh, brethren, this one can really hurt. whom the ends of the ages have out of His mouth went a sharp two- ers to look to them and their great leader- come. edged sword, and His countenance ship and vision. We are not to do that. We can get so caught up in just the was like the sun shining in its endeavors of life that we can substitute 12: Therefore let him who thinks he Remember this: James tells us, “For as strength. stands take heed lest he fall. the body without the spirit is dead, so our outward actions of fighting for what 17: And when I saw Him, I fell at His is right and true for the tender and devot- 13: No temptation has overtaken you faith without works is dead also” (James feet as dead. But He laid His right ed relationship we should have with our except such as is common to man; 2:26). hand on me, saying to me, Do not be beloved! but God is faithful, who will not afraid; I am the First and the Last. These works are very personal, just as allow you to be tempted beyond what our faith is also very personal. So here Look how Christ addresses this. you are able, but with the temptation 18: I am He who lives, and was dead, and Revelation 2:5: behold, I am alive forevermore. we see that the message to the Ephesus will also make the way of escape, that Church contains positive and negative 5: Remember therefore from where you you may be able to bear it. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death. comments. have fallen; repent and do the first Yes, brethren, we must be vigilantly works, or else I will come to you 19: Write the things which you have The positive are: quickly and remove your lampstand watching. If not, sin will overtake us. Its seen, and the things which are, and leaven will consume us and puff us up so 1. They are patient and persevere. from its place—unless you repent. the things which will take place after 2. They cannot tolerate those who are we appear pleasing to the eye but are full this. Do you remember how it was when of the emptiness of death. evil. you were just called? I do! Everything 20: The mystery of the seven stars which 3. In fact, they have tested those who Paul here has concisely prepared the you saw in My right hand, and the else in life became less significant. I pretend to be apostles and have found wanted to spend almost all my time way for our study of the 7 Churches of seven golden lampstands: The seven them to be liars. the NT. stars are the angels of the seven buried in the Bible, listening and learning churches, and the seven lampstands 4. They labor for Christ’s name’s sake from Christ. They have the same baptism, the same which you saw are the seven church- and do not weary in doing so. spiritual food available to them, and the I left that after a time. It became more es.” 5. They hate the deeds of the Nico- important to debate with others, to serve same spiritual drink. But are all of them Verse 19 tells 3 things; past, present, laitans. acceptable to God? the congregation, to spend more time and future. I ask again, can we relate to any of working so I had more to give to the Let’s now look at the state of spiritual Brethren, we are told here in verse 20 these? work. Israel on her 7-week journey to the feast that there are literally 7 churches. Does Many of us display our patience and 1 Corinthians 13:1-2: of Firstfruits or Pentecost as depicted in this mean 7 eras of the same church? perseverance by our keeping of the faith the messages to the 7 Churches. 1: Though I speak with the tongues of Does this mean 7 concurrent, different once delivered. Many of us at times have men and of angels, but have not love, We are going to see Christ is instruct- churches? Does this mean any of the had no one else to fellowship with out- I have become sounding brass or a ing these 7 Churches on putting out spir- other explanations put forth by writers as side of a few family members, but we clanging cymbal. itual leaven. to their timing and presence over the past have not let down. 2: And though I have the gift of prophe- Let’s get the setting here first. 1910 years, give or take a few? Is it Many of us have fled from spiritual cy, and understand all mysteries and Revelation 1:1-20: important to debate such things? NO,it fornication. We have rejected those who all knowledge, and though I have all 1: The Revelation of Jesus Christ, isn’t! The lesson we are to learn from this have presented evil doctrine to us. We faith, so that I could remove moun- which God gave Him to show His group of 7 Churches and the messages have tested them and have found them to tains, but have not love, I am nothing. servants—things which must shortly given to each is very, very clear. be liars and have gone to great lengths, to Forsaking our first or foremost love is take place. And He sent and signified Many are called and few are chosen. Christ’s name’s sake, to warn them of a terrible thing. It can cause us to be it by His angel to His servant John, It’s that simple. These 7 churches depict these evil men. In fact, we still do so. We removed from the grace of God and thus 2: who bore witness to the word of God, for us the situations and conditions in have rejected their system of hierarchy, our ability to be His bride. We must and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, which Christ will work with His bride, their self-gratification and dominion over always do these “first works” as well as to all things that he saw. those who will be acceptable to Him after the called of God. not leaving the others undone. We must 3: Blessed is he who reads and those the 7-week count to Pentecost. Christ is Christ’s words ring loud and clear, become the tamin or whole package. who hear the words of this prophecy, teaching us here that we need to undertake “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, So Christ’s corrective measure to and keep those things which are writ- Ephesus is to repent and do the first ten in it; for the time is near. and maintain the state of being unleav- hypocrites! For you shut up the Kingdom ened regardless of our surroundings. of Heaven against men: for you neither works. 4: John, to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from We are to be able to identify ourselves go in nor do you allow those who are In verses 8-11 of Revelation, we read Him who is and who was and who is in these messages and take the necessary entering to go in” (Matthew 23:13). His message to the Church in Smyrna. to come, and from the seven Spirits steps to prepare ourselves for Him. Yes, we have and continue to fight this CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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Remember Israel the 3rd day out. between them and God. This is the doc- keep His works until the end. 7 Churches Exodus 14:10-12: trine of the Nicolaitans. “You need to go Here are brethren who function in lov- 10: And when Pharaoh drew near, the through the great ones to get to God.” ing, faithful, service while in the midst of children of Israel lifted their eyes, With this said, Christ tells us that a perverse church. CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE and behold, the Egyptians marched Pergamos still holds fast to His name and So much to understand about today 8: And to the angel of the church in after them. So they were very afraid, did not deny His faith. can be gained from these messages of Smyrna write, These things says the and the children of Israel cried out to So here we see a Church which still First and the Last, who was dead, and the LORD. Christ. came to life: faithfully does things in His name but In Revelation 3:1-6, we read about 11: Then they said to Moses, “Because allows deceivers to work in her midst, there were no graves in Egypt, have Sardis: 9: I know your works, tribulation, and being surrounded by the ministers of poverty; and I know the blasphemy of you taken us away to die in the 1: And to the angel of the church in those who say they are Jews and are wilderness? Why have you so dealt Satan. Sardis write, These things says He not, but are a synagogue of Satan. with us, to bring us up out of Egypt? Christ tells Pergamos to repent quick- who has the seven Spirits of God and 10: Do not fear any of those things which 12: Is this not the word that we told you ly of these two egregious sins. She is to the seven stars: I know your works, you are about to suffer. Indeed, the in Egypt, saying, Let us alone that we put her leaven out immediately. that you have a name that you are devil is about to throw some of you may serve the Egyptians? For it Many of us found ourselves tolerating alive, but you are dead. into prison, that you may be tested, would have been better for us to serve this very thing. We found ourselves in the 2: Be watchful, and strengthen the and you will have tribulation ten the Egyptians than that we should die midst of Satan’s synagogue. Their false things which remain, that are ready to days. Be faithful until death, and I in the wilderness. die, for I have not found your works will give you the crown of life. apostles were teaching the brethren it After we come out of sin and are led was okay to eat unclean things and fel- perfect before God. 11: He who has an ear, let him hear what by our Husband, who has started a good 3: Remember therefore how you have the Spirit says to the churches. He lowship with those who worship at the work in us, we surely will be tested by altars of demons. Their greed and lust for received and heard; hold fast and who overcomes shall not be hurt by the Devil. A little bit of fear let in will repent. Therefore if you will not the second death. all things unrighteous has led many of watch, I will come upon you as a grow into a very compelling thing if we the called away from God. We are to use Here we see a Church in a very differ- let it. We must never sound retreat on thief, and you will not know what ent situation than Ephesus. Ephesus had the two edged sword, the sword of the hour I will come upon you. what we have started. We must move for- mouth of God, which is the word of God, outgoing works, things they initiated and ward, we must overcome, we must be 4: You have a few names even in Sardis pursued. But here in Smyrna we see those to rid ourselves of this sinful state. who have not defiled their garments; faithful unto death. Yes, endure the tribu- and they shall walk with Me in white, who are on the receiving end of much lation and poverty and stand against the Christ now moves on to address the condition in Thyatira. Revelation 2:18- for they are worthy. hardship. Her works are tribulation, blasphemy of the angels of light. poverty, and being blasphemed by the 29: 5: He who overcomes shall be clothed Revelation 2:12-17: in white garments, and I will not blot great ones of the congregation of Satan. 18: And to the angel of the church in 12: And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write, These things says the out his name from the Book of Life; These false apostles, deceitful work- Pergamos write, These things says Son of God, who has eyes like a but I will confess his name before My ers, angels of light, ministers of Satan, He who has the sharp two-edged flame of fire, and His feet like fine Father and before His angels. persecuted those called of God who sword: brass: 6: He who has an ear, let him hear what rejected their evil doctrine. 13: I know your works, and where you 19: I know your works, love, service, the Spirit says to the churches. This tribulation they endure, #2346 dwell, where Satan’s throne is. And faith, and your patience; and as for A dead church! A church which has lit- thlibo “to suffer affliction, to be troubled, you hold fast to My name, and did your works, the last are more than the tle recognition as the body of Christ. As has reference to suffering due to the pres- not deny My faith even in the days in first. the body without the spirit is dead, so which Antipas was My faithful mar- sure of circumstances or the antagonisms 20: Nevertheless I have a few things faith without works is dead also. tyr, who was killed among you, against you, because you allow that of persons.” Vine’s also says of this word where Satan dwells. This church has very little in the way “refers almost invariably to that which woman Jezebel, who calls herself a 14: But I have a few things against you, prophetess, to teach and seduce My of works. Yet Christ encourages them to comes upon them from without.” because you have there those who servants to commit sexual immorali- be watchful and strengthen the things Her poverty is #4432 ptocheia. Vine’s hold the doctrine of Balaam, who ty and eat things sacrificed to idols. which remain which are almost dead. says of it “destitution.” taught Balak to put a stumbling block 21: And I gave her time to repent of her He tells the members to remember! Go We find these same words spoken by before the children of Israel, to eat sexual immorality, and she did not back and think about what you received things sacrificed to idols, and to com- repent. Paul in 2 Corinthians 8:1-2 and verse 9: mit sexual immorality. and heard at your onset. Don’t let it fade 1: Moreover, brethren, we make known 22: Indeed I will cast her into a sickbed, away but hold fast to it and repent. 15: Thus you also have those who hold and those who commit adultery with to you the grace of God bestowed on the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which Believe the Bible! On the one positive the churches of Macedonia: her into great tribulation, unless they note He says there are a few (puny num- thing I hate. repent of their deeds. 2: that in a great trial of affliction the 16: Repent, or else I will come to you ber) who will make it. abundance of their joy and their deep 23: I will kill her children with death, and quickly and will fight against them all the churches shall know that I am This represents a church which has poverty abounded in the riches of with the sword of My mouth. gone from having truth to not having it. their liberality.” He who searches the minds and 17: He who has an ear, let him hear what So many today have been beguiled by 9: For you know the grace of our Lord hearts. And I will give to each one of the Spirit says to the churches. To you according to your works. unrighteous deception and have not Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, him who overcomes I will give some yet for your sakes He became poor, 24: Now to you I say, and to the rest in maintained the love of the truth, so they of the hidden manna to eat. And I Thyatira, as many as do not have this receive strong delusion that they believe that you through His poverty might will give him a white stone, and on become rich. doctrine, who have not known the the lie of Satan and his pleasures. the stone a new name written which depths of Satan, as they say, I will put Over the millennia the Church has no one knows except him who on you no other burden. Now we come to one of the most receives it. turned-to sections of the scriptures of the gone through much tribulation, much 25: But hold fast what you have till I poverty, and much maligning. After reading this, remember that there come. hypocrites. Revelation 3:7-13: But as verses 10 and 11 of 2 is one of the seven lampstands of Christ 26: And he who overcomes, and keeps 7: And to the angel of the church in Corinthians 8 tell us, we must be willing in their midst. He starts out this message My works until the end, to him I will Philadelphia write, These things says to complete what we have started in spite to Pergamos by stating that He has the give power over the nations— He who is holy, He who is true, He who has the key of David, He who of circumstances. sharp two edged sword (#4501, rhom- 27: He shall rule them with a rod of iron; opens and no one shuts, and shuts and That is why Christ tells Smyrna, “Do phaia, of large size). They shall be dashed to pieces like no one opens: not fear any of those things which you A two edged sword is used for heavy the potter’s vessels—as I also have received from My Father; 8: I know your works. See, I have set are about to suffer.” Why? battle. It cuts going forward or backward. before you an open door, and no one In Revelation 2:8 He encourages them It is not what one would use for fencing 28: and I will give him the morning star. can shut it; for you have a little by stating what He is about to tell them or sparing, but for major battle. 29: He who has an ear, let him hear what strength, have kept My word, and comes from He who is the First and the This Church is not only in the midst of the Spirit says to the churches. have not denied My name. Last, who was dead, and came to life. leaven, she is full of leaven. So we read that there are those in 9: Indeed I will make those of the syna- Continuing in verse 10 of Revelation 2: In spite of all that, Christ gives her the Thyatira who love others, serve others, gogue of Satan, who say they are keep the faith and who are patient to per- Jews and are not, but lie—indeed I 10: . . . Indeed, the devil is about to throw opportunity to repent. He specifically severe. Christ tells them their works are will make them come and worship some of you into prison, that you may tells her she tolerates those who hold the stronger than when they started. before your feet, and to know that I be tested, and you will have tribula- doctrine of Balaam. What is the doctrine have loved you. tion ten days. Be faithful until death, of Balaam? 2 Peter 2:15: But we see that they allow a woman to and I will give you the crown of life. 10: Because you have kept My command 15: They have forsaken the right way and claim to be a prophet and let her teach to persevere, I also will keep you Yes, we may die by the hand and the gone astray, following the way of and beguile the called of God. The con- from the hour of trial which shall efforts of those who are of the synagogue Balaam the son of Beor, who loved sequences of these actions are very come upon the whole world, to test of Satan. That is not very appealing to the wages of unrighteousness. severe and far reaching. Christ says this those who dwell on the earth. me. How about you? Well, it has hap- Jude 11: must be repented of, for her teachings 11: Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold pened in the past and will happen again. 11:Woe to them! For they have gone in lead to spiritual adultery. fast what you have, that no one may Will we be fearful of such things? Will the way of Cain, have run greedily in The other thing Christ has against take your crown. they prevent us from completing the the error of Balaam for profit, and them is that some know what is called the 12: He who overcomes, I will make him work we started? perished in the rebellion of Korah. deep things of Satan. Brethren, these are a pillar in the temple of My God, and The doctrine or teaching of Balaam is sins which go far beyond what we would he shall go out no more. And I will I have heard some say there is nothing write on him the name of My God negative or in need of repair in Smyrna. that for a price one will give unrighteous associate with normal worldly lusts and actions. We need not elaborate. and the name of the city of My God, If that is the case, why does Christ say to counsel which will result in those called the New Jerusalem, which comes her, “He who overcomes shall not be hurt of God to stumble and sin. They teach Look how individual all this is. Later down out of heaven from My God. by the second death”? What is she to others to worship God by keeping pagan part of verse 23: “. . . And I will give to And I will write on him My new overcome? The fear of the things which practices. each one of you according to your name. are about to come upon her to cause her Pergamos also tolerates those who works. Verse 24: “Now to you I say and 13: He who has an ear, let him hear what to suffer. What will it take to make us would have dominion over the brethren, to the rest in Thyatira . . .” the Spirit says to the churches. quit the works we have started? who become their benefactors stepping So Christ says repent, overcome, and CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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my thoughts wandered to this section of His body is maturing and coming of tered flock? John 10:1-4: scriptures. I turned to it and read it age. He is calling us out of the sheep 1: Most assuredly, I say to you, he who 7 Churches through for probably the hundredth time. folds which have been overcome by rob- does not enter the sheepfold by the But on this occasion it was different. For bers and thieves. door, but climbs up some other way, CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE now I saw myself being talked about. So here in Revelation 2 and 3 He tells the same is a thief and a robber. It is obvious why so many organiza- These scriptures became very real and us what we will see at the end of the age. 2: But he who enters by the door is the tions wish to claim this name, isn’t it? personal to me. Where do we fit brethren? What are we shepherd of the sheep. Look at the simplicity and humility of I had been taught by my keepers that to do? 2 Timothy 3:1-5 and 1 Timothy 3: To him the doorkeeper opens, and the these people. in fact I was a Philadelphian and not one 6:3-5: sheep hear his voice; and HE CALLS 1. They have kept Christ’s word. of these “other six inferior churches.” I HIS OWN SHEEP BY NAME AND LEADS 1: But know this, that in the last days THEM OUT. 2. They have not denied His name. knew in my heart that day that I was not perilous times will come: 4: And when he brings out his own 3. They have kept His command to per- sincere in that understanding. 2: For men will be lovers of themselves, sheep, he goes before them; and the severe. You see, I was part of an organization lovers of money, boasters, proud, sheep follow him, for they know his They are absolutely aware that it is that searched land and sea seeking prose- blasphemers, disobedient to parents, voice. unthankful, unholy, through His strength, that it is He, who lytes who would be “of like mind.” I held In verse 1 notice the setting: Thieves opens and no one shuts. It is Christ alone the belief that we were the one and only 3: unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers and Robbers! And they use the Church who sets before them an open door. true church of God. My organization had for gain! These brethren do not suffer from delu- of good, all the truth figured out because we were A shepherd calls to his sheep. He has sions of grandeur. 4: traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers special. We had nothing to learn from of pleasure rather than lovers of God, an intimate or personal relationship with They know it is Christ who has the key others for we were the teachers. We had 5: having a form of godliness but deny- each of them. They know and recognize of David just as He says, and not some lots of money, buildings, TV programs, ing its power. And from such people each other. Revelation 3:20: surrogate or wannabe. To clearly under- magazines, etc. We were it! turn away! 20: Behold, I stand at the door and stand what is said here to the On this particular day the scales fell And: knock. If anyone hears My voice and Philadelphians, it is necessary to better off my eyes. It was one of those moments opens the door, I will come in to him translate verse 8: 3: If anyone teaches otherwise and does in time which needs few words to not consent to wholesome words, and dine with him, and he with Me. 8: I know your works. See, I have describe. I am sure we have all had them even the words of our Lord Jesus Oh, yes, we live in perilous times. As placed before you a door being from time to time. My actions did not Christ, and to the doctrine which a result of that, the churches are for the opened which no one is able to shut, show love for others, but contempt. For accords with godliness, most part laced with leaven. Christ is because you hold little power, have even a tax collector loves his own. kept My word, and have not denied 4: he is proud, knowing nothing, but is careful to point out that even in that state My name. Here Christ told me and the rest of the obsessed with disputes and argu- there is still some good mixed in. Laodiceans that I did not have one ments over words, from which come So what are we to learn about our These humble folks take their instruc- envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, tion from God Himself. They do not lis- redeeming quality to mention. Not one! behavior from the messages to the 7 He said to me, Revelation 3:18: 5: useless wranglings of men of corrupt churches? ten to the lies of the great ones who are of minds and destitute of the truth, who the synagogue of Satan. They have done 18: I counsel you to buy from Me gold suppose that godliness is a means of Christ has left us with a very clear road well at keeping leaven out because they refined in the fire, that you may be gain. From such withdraw yourself. map to following Him, a clear trail as to rich; and white garments, that you believe their Head. They are true Now let’s read about the actions of our personal behavior, as to what He may be clothed, that the shame of expects of us. If we are to be counted sojourners going out often. Christ gives your nakedness may not be revealed; those who are self-important and view them a very special promise in verse 10. and anoint your eyes with eye salve, and use the Church for gain. Ezekiel among the firstborn we must meet, at a He will keep them from the trial of the that you may see. 34:1-12: minimum, the criteria He gives us here in Revelation 2 and 3. great tribulation. It was on that day that God truly 1: And the word of the LORD came to 10: Because you have kept My command allowed me personally to go beyond as me, saying, Let’s look at the good works we are to to persevere, I also will keep you we are taught in Hebrews 6:3. Many tri- 2: Son of man, prophesy against the be doing. In each message He closes with from the hour of trial which shall als started after that. My God opened my shepherds of Israel, prophesy and say a promise if we do one thing, OVERCOME. come upon the whole world, to test to them, Thus says the Lord GOD to Revelation 3:21: those who dwell on the earth. eyes that day and kept His promise to rebuke and chasten me for my own good. the shepherds: Woe to the shepherds 21: To him who overcomes I will grant to 11: Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold of Israel who feed themselves! sit with Me on My throne, as I also fast what you have, that no one may Christ says to the Laodicean: Should not the shepherds feed the overcame and sat down with My take your crown. 1. Be zealous and repent. flocks? Father on His throne. We should long to be numbered 2. Forget your organization, your great 3: You eat the fat and clothe yourselves We are required to do what Christ did. amongst these called of God who are ones, and your delusions of grandeur with the wool; you slaughter the Who and what did He overcome? The known for their love for the brethren as and open the door to your mind so I fatlings, but you do not feed the Greek word used in these instances is can come in and teach you Myself. flock. their name so readily depicts. #3528, nikao, from #3529; to subdue (lit- I hope it is becoming obvious to us all To say I was puffed up with leaven 4: The weak you have not strengthened, erally or figuratively). It is translated: would be a gross understatement. For the nor have you healed those who were that the language used by Christ in these sick, nor bound up the broken, nor conquer, overcome, prevail, get the vic- messages is to all 7 churches, and is in first time in my life I realized that when tory. Christ told His disciples to beware of the brought back what was driven away, the contextual timing of the very end of nor sought what was lost; but with What we are being told here is not a leaven of the Pharisees He was talking to the age just prior to His return: force and cruelty you have ruled passive thing. It is a war, a war we cannot me today. I became a repentant “But hold fast what you have till I them. win on our own. We need help. Laodicean. I decided I would let Christ come.” 5: So they were scattered because there Revelation 12:11: and only Christ teach me through one- was no shepherd; and they became “Behold I come quickly.” on-one Bible study: me and Him sitting 11: And they overcame him by the blood food for all the beasts of the field of the Lamb and by the word of their So let’s move on to His last message, at the table. when they were scattered. Revelation 3:14-21: testimony, and they did not love their In time I realized I must share with 6: My sheep wandered through all the lives to the death. 14: And to the angel of the church of the others, who would listen, the things God mountains, and on every high hill; By Christ’s blood! Laodiceans write, These things says had taught me. It was all new. I had never yes, My flock was scattered over the the Amen, the Faithful and True Without that we are helpless. Do we reached out to others that way before. I whole face of the earth, and no one Witness, the Beginning of the cre- was seeking or searching for them. understand the extent of His sacrifice? If ation of God: had to show genuine outgoing concern Christ had sinned, He would never have for all the others called of God. I had to 7: Therefore, you shepherds, hear the 15: I know your works, that you are nei- word of the LORD: been able to return to the glory He had ther cold nor hot. I could wish you divest myself of all my spiritual preju- with the Father before the earth was and dices. 8: as I live, says the Lord GOD, surely were cold or hot. because My flock became a prey, and from eternity. That is an awesome sacri- 16: So then, because you are lukewarm, I knew then that I was to be a sojourn- My flock became food for every fice! We must understand it completely and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit er amongst these 7 churches of God. I beast of the field, because there was to effectively use it in the word of our you out of My mouth. had now become a part of the body of no shepherd, nor did My shepherds testimony. That is listed here with 17: Because you say, I am rich, have Christ as others were becoming as well. search for My flock, but the shep- Christ’s shed blood. It takes two things: become wealthy, and have need of Our Husband is calling us out by herds fed themselves and did not feed His shed blood and the word of our testi- nothing—and do not know that you My flock— are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, name, revealing Himself to us in a very mony. One part is His the other is ours. In intimate way. We were not in need of a 9: therefore, O shepherds, hear the word the messages to the churches, He tells us and naked— of the LORD! 18: I counsel you to buy from Me gold surrogate, a benefactor, a leader, for the how to do our part. Head was now going to nourish us 10: Thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I refined in the fire, that you may be am against the shepherds, and I will So who and what are we overcoming? rich; and white garments, that you Himself. To whom much is given require My flock at their hand; I will Revelation 12:9: may be clothed, that the shame of brethren, much is expected. We must all cause them to cease feeding the 9: So the great dragon was cast out, that your nakedness may not be revealed; do our part in love, one unto the other. sheep, and the shepherds shall feed serpent of old, called the Devil and and anoint your eyes with eye salve, Christ is unleavening His Church themselves no more; for I will deliv- Satan, who deceives the whole that you may see. today. But He is not doing it as most er My flock from their mouths, that world; he was cast to the earth, and 19: As many as I love, I rebuke and chas- would suppose. Instead of keeping us in they may no longer be food for them. his angels were cast out with him. ten. Therefore be zealous and repent. a particular church and then removing 11: For thus says the Lord GOD: Indeed I We overcome the Devil by the blood 20: Behold, I stand at the door and the leaven, He is removing us from the Myself will search for My sheep and of Christ. He made that possible by His knock. If anyone hears My voice and leaven. seek them out. victory over death but we have to over- opens the door, I will come in to him 12: As a shepherd seeks out his flock on come the Devil’s deceit personally. and dine with him, and he with Me. That is the only way to do it because of the day he is among his scattered 21: To him who overcomes I will grant to the amount of steadfast sin accumulated sheep, so will I seek out My sheep Romans 12:21 says: sit with Me on My throne, as I also in the churches. and deliver them from all the places 21: Do not be overcome by evil, but overcame and sat down with My Christ is building His body at this where they were scattered on a overcome evil with good. Father on His throne. time. He is adding the feet, hands, legs, cloudy and dark day. Just look at the vivid opportunities that A few years back, while doing a study, and all the other parts. How does a shepherd seek his scat- CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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them, as to which of them should be himself also to walk just as He body, till we all come to the unity of the considered the greatest. walked. faith which was once delivered to 7 Churches 25: And He said to them, The kings of 7: Brethren, I write no new command- mankind in the holy scriptures and thus the Gentiles exercise lordship over ment to you, but an old command- to the knowledge of the Son of God, to a CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE them, and those who exercise author- ment which you have had from the perfect man, to the measure of the stature the churches have to do this in the mes- ity over them are called benefactors. beginning. The old commandment is and fullness of Christ. sages to us in Revelation 2 and 3. Do we get that. Those who are being the word which you heard from the beginning. And why are we to do so? Ephesians 1 John 2:14: lorded over actually are deceived to think 4:14-16 tells us loud and clear: their oppressors are benefactors. 8: Again, a new commandment I write 14: I have written to you, fathers, to you, which thing is true in Him and 14: that we should no longer be children, Because you have known Him who is 26: But not so among you; on the con- in you, because the darkness is pass- tossed to and fro and carried about from the beginning. I have written to trary, he who is greatest among you, ing away, and the true light is already with every wind of doctrine, by the you, young men, Because you are let him be as the younger, and he who shining. trickery of men, in the cunning crafti- leads as he who serves. strong, and the word of God abides in 9: He who says he is in the light, and ness of deceitful plotting, you, And you have overcome the No, we do not fight or hate those who hates his brother, is in darkness until 15: but, speaking the truth in love, may wicked one. are deceived into following such things. now. grow up in all things into Him who is Does the word of God abide in us so We fight those who are doing the deceiv- 10: He who loves his brother abides in the head—Christ— strong that we can be skilled in wielding ing just as Christ did by using the word of the light, and there is no cause for 16: from whom the whole body, joined the sword of truth in overcoming the God to expose their evil ways. stumbling in him. and knit together by what every joint deception of the Devil? Christ spent a lot of time with the 11: But he who hates his brother is in supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does We do not war against flesh and blood. sheep. He taught the masses who were darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, its share, causes growth of the body We war against the Devil and his minions around Him the word of God and chal- for the edifying of itself in love. who have deceived, and are deceiving, because the darkness has blinded his lenged the leaven of the Pharisees and Our seven day process for keeping the called of God. Scribes. eyes. So to all of us, wherever we are found, leaven out is only the preparation, the Satan has deceived the whole world. It We are to do no less. We are to be starting point, for putting that to the test is our part to expose that deception in our spending this time in the wilderness we have a cumulative message as to what our relationship is to the body of Christ. during our personal count to Pentecost, works so all can see. Remember, faith developing our skills in using the whole the Feast of the Firstfruits, the Feast of without works is dead. armor of God. 1. We are to labor in Christ’s name [those called of God] and not weary Weeks, the resurrection of those who We are told in 1 John 5:4: And we are not to put a bushel over in it. have died in Christ and the instantaneous 4: For whatever is born of God over- our heads. 2. We are to be patient and persevere change for those yet alive who have been comes the world. And this is the vic- One of the greatest examples of how a with our brothers and sisters. zealous for their Husband and who have tory that has overcome the world— servant of God can get into a bad attitude kept His commands. This can only begin our faith. 3. We must not endure those who are and forget about his brothers can be evil. with the sacrifice of Christ being applied So by the blood of the Lamb and by found in 1 Kings 19:11-17: 4. We must test those who pretend they to us at this time. the word of our testimony (the ascending 11: Then He said, Go out, and stand on are sent by God to see if they are We cannot start the 7 days of UB with- of it) we overcome the Devil. the mountain before the LORD. And liars. out the Passover of our Beloved, the We read in the messages to the church- behold, the LORD passed by, and a 5. We must hate the deeds, the doc- Lamb of God. It is His shed blood on the es that the brethren are persecuted by the great and strong wind tore into the trines, of the Nicolaitans of ruling the 14th of Abib and our ingesting of His synagogue of Satan, that Satan dwells mountains and broke the rocks in brethren with force and cruelty and body and blood on that day which en- among them, that these are those who pieces before the LORD, but the LORD feeding on everything the brethren ables us to enter the 7 days of being teach the deep things of Satan or his doc- was not in the wind; and after the have. Their doctrines of dominion unleavened. Please do not lump His sac- wind an earthquake, but the LORD trines to the churches. This is a real war. and greed have caused many to stum- rifice with ours. was not in the earthquake; ble on their way to the kingdom. Remember, thieves and robbers have Remember it is the word of our testi- taken over the sheepfold. These liars use 12: and after the earthquake a fire, but the 6. We are never to allow anyone or any- LORD was not in the fire; and after the mony which helps us to overcome the deceit and guile to take control. They thing to come between ourselves and fire a still small voice. our Husband. Our first love must be Devil along with the blood of the Lamb preach love of this world and to hate their 13: So it was, when Elijah heard it, that he as fresh at the end as it was in the of God. So doctrine is important. John brothers who do not agree with them. wrapped his face in his mantle and beginning. 7:17: We are to flee from that spiritual leav- went out and stood in the entrance of 7. We must be willing to suffer tribula- 17: If anyone wants to do His will, he en, but we are to love our brother at the the cave. Suddenly a voice came to tion, poverty, and even death to stand shall know concerning the doctrine, same time. We are to lay down our life him, and said, What are you doing against the blasphemy of those who whether it is from God or whether I for him. It is not enough to just flee from here, Elijah? call themselves spiritual and of the speak on My own authority. it. We are to follow Christ’s example. 14: And he said, I have been very zealous body, who in actuality are members Many perils await us, just as many After He had been tested in the wilder- for the LORD God of hosts; because of the synagogue (or place of learn- have in the past. We must remain ever so ness and then was strengthened and nour- the children of Israel have forsaken ing) of Satan. vigilant and alert to keeping leaven out. ished by God, He didn’t stay there in the Your covenant, torn down Your 8. We must hold fast to the name of That is why Israel started the seven days altars, and killed Your prophets with wilderness did He. Christ and remain in His faith. with a nightly vigil, for the Devil is sure the sword. I alone am left; and they 9. We must love and serve the brethren He returned to confront the liars, hyp- seek to take my life. to follow with his destructive lying wherever they are found. We are not deceit. ocrites, blind fools, offspring of the ser- 15: Then the LORD said to him: Go, return at war with the brethren, but with the pent, or as Paul calls them, false apostles, on your way to the Wilderness of implements of Satan who deceives This vigil is not about eating, about deceitful workers, and angels of light, Damascus; and when you arrive, them and keeps them captive. ingesting, but in reality about keeping who do not enter the kingdom and pre- anoint Hazael as king over Syria. 10. We must be strong in the word of things out. vent those who are trying to enter from 16: Also you shall anoint Jehu the son of God and not deny Elohim’s plan of We, as the body of Christ, must under- doing so. Nimshi as king over Israel. And salvation so that we will have an stand these examples, for they were writ- Yes, we must be willing to lay down Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel open door before us to keep His com- ten for our admonition on whom the ends our lives for our brothers. Meholah you shall anoint as prophet mand to have love for one another. of the ages have come. in your place. We were once captives but now are 11.We are to be very eager and willing to Therefore, brethren, let us clean out 17: It shall be that whoever escapes the repent of our own nakedness and free. sword of Hazael, Jehu will kill; and blindness as we grow in the grace and the old leaven which may still be linger- Have we abandoned the weak, the whoever escapes the sword of Jehu, knowledge of our Lord Jesus, the ing so that we may become a new lump sick, the broken, those that were driven Elisha will kill.” [In other words, go Christ. so we are truly unleavened. The blood of away and are lost? and be about your work I have given 12. We must always guard the door, the Christ has washed us clean. Therefore In our zeal to flee the spiritual fornica- you to do.] gate to our mind so that we are able to let’s maintain that state and keep the tion that the churches have with the And, oh, by the way, Elijah, verse 18: rightly divide the word of truth so we feast. We cannot do that with the leaven world and the Devil, I hope we have not 18: Yet I have reserved seven thousand in can keep the leaven of Satan and his of Satan but with the unleavened bread of lost sight of the fact that our brothers and Israel, all whose knees have not false ministers of righteousness out. sincerity and truth. Make full use of this sisters who are called in Christ are being bowed to Baal, and every mouth that It is important for us to remain positive time in the wilderness, grow in the grace ruled with force and cruelty. has not kissed him. and strong during this ever darkening and knowledge of Christ, learn to use the day. We must keep our focus on the light armor of God and when you have be- Christ tells us in Revelation 2:6, 15: What a lesson for us today, brethren! Forget the woe-is-me pity party. of the world, our Savior Jesus Christ. come skilled in it so you can defend 6: But this you have, that you hate the 1J ohn 2:1-11: We must make great efforts to keep yourself it’s time to start thinking about deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also your brothers who are held captive under 1: My little children, these things I write leaven out and when we find it in us we hate. the workers of deceit. 15: Thus you also have those who hold to you, so that you may not sin. And must act immediately to remove it. the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which if anyone sins, we have an Advocate Christ has shown us the way. Just as Be about our Father’s and Brother’s thing I hate. with the Father, Jesus Christ the ancient Israel was accompanied by a business, for if you carry that sword of righteous. This doctrine of inserting a man mixed multitude who caused them to sin, truth and try to only save your life with it, between the Husband and the bride 2: And He Himself is the propitiation so too are we mixed in among tares who then you will perish by it. for our sins, and not for ours only but look so much like ourselves. We must be Always be willing to lay down your life should be hated by all who love their also for the whole world. Husband. This is the doctrine of hier- very careful in how we deal with them so for your brother whether you feel he is 3: Now by this we know that we know as not to endanger our brothers. worthy of it or not. For not one of us was archy. It is no different from going to a Him, if we keep His commandments. confessional and confessing your sins to There is a mighty need for those who or is worthy of Christ’s sacrifice for us. 4: He who says, I know Him, and does So much more could be said, but I a Catholic priest and expecting for- not keep His commandments, is a have the gift of being a Pastor. I person- giveness. liar, and the truth is not in him. ally do not possess that gift. leave it to you to pick up from where I have left off. Look what Christ had to do immedi- 5: But whoever keeps His word, truly Christ has given gifts to each and ately after the Passover and foot wash- the love of God is perfected in him. every one of us in His body. He has done Have a peaceful and successful count ing. Luke 22:24-26: By this we know that we are in Him. so for the equipping of the saints, for the to Pentecost. 24: Now there was also a dispute among 6: He who says he abides in Him ought work of service, for the uplifting of the Our peace we give to you.

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hristians the world over believe in Bible. When you read God’s word, God is Have you ever heard a knock on the door when I became a man, I put away child- God, and a good portion want to teaching you. But what end must you final- in the middle of the night? You’re awakened ish things. 12 For now, we see through a Cobey Him. So perhaps we should ly come to? He says, “5 But now mine eye from a sound sleep and can’t be sure who or glass darkly.” In other words, the best you know about this God. What does He look seeth thee.” Job finally knew who and what what caused the noise? Are you a bit fear- can hope for in one’s lifetime is to see only like? Does He have skin, bones, and tissues? God was and what He looked like. This was ful? Not David. Read about why he was the in shadows, knowing just a part of the truth. Is He old? Is He young? What’s His person- the hard lesson Job had to learn, and why he instrument used to take Goliath down. He No one can see completely, or have full ality? What can we learn of His character? said, “3 I understood not; things too won- says, “My heart shall not fear; though understanding. All are handicapped by just What type of Being is He? What makes derful for me, which I knew not.” One of war should rise against me, in this will I being human. You will see only parts such God, the only Almighty One? As you go the steps in discovering how wonderful God be confident.” (David was confident.) “4 as the Holy Days, the Sabbath, which is a through the scriptures, you will find the real is is that you must learn who God is and One thing have I desired of the Lord. shadow of things to come. What God story about the true and only one God. what He looks like. Job continues, “6 That will I seek after.” This is the end reveals about Himself through His holy Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in David went after. It was his goal in life. word will not be a total picture because to JOB SEES GOD dust and ashes.” Job summarizes: He, now, “That I may dwell in the house of the know Him is unsearchable. “12 For now [Job 38:3-4] 3 Gird up now thy loins just doesn’t hear God; doesn’t just under- Lord all the days of my life,” and do what? we see through a glass, darkly; but” like a man; for I will demand of thee, stand His words; but Job virtually sees God, “To behold the beauty of the Lord. And (when we are changed, we will see Him) and answer thou me. 4 Where wast and knows what He really is like. Job knows to enquire in his temple.” David is telling “then face to face.” When you are changed, thou when I laid the foundations of how God acts and how He thinks and looks you God is beautiful. In checking the you will be like God and His Son. When the earth? declare, if thou hast like. Job knows what God has done. He Hebrew the word “beauty,” it actually you look at God (and not an angel), you will understanding. said, “I abhor myself.” How many Chris- means “beauty.” The problem with the see completely. To know the whole process Job had some very, very hard lessons to tians have ever come to the place Job did? English language is that many times it’s of salvation, which comes only through learn in the greatest depth of repentance Job realized his righteousness was nothing, much too limited. Frankly, every language Jesus Christ, you will come to see the known to man. He had to lose his family; he just as Paul knew (Philippians 3:6-8) his is limited. A big problem is that the English Father. The more you come to learn of the had to lose his career; he had to be afflicted righteousness was like dung. vocabulary is inadequate and not descrip- Father, the more you grow in knowledge, tive enough. In this case, it means “delight- with sickness and excruciating pain. If that GOD IS BEAUTIFUL the more you grow in understanding. When wasn’t enough, his friends tried to tell him fully pleasant.” When you look at God, He’s you come to know what God is doing and delightfully pleasant, not the picture you’ve about all the problems he had. Then he had Most have a view of God as an elderly why He’s doing it, you will see it was the man with long, white hair with a white seen with white long hair, long beard, wrin- to contend with God himself. only possible way. This gift of love, the ulti- beard who sits on a stool with his hand on a kled face and probing eyes. Instead, David mate gift from God is when we see Him God began by asking Job who he thought globe, depicting the earth. This picture said God looked handsome. But in reality, face to face. he was. God told Job to listen to Him, about makes God look very old with a very God is beyond description. Words are just all the things He had created. He told Job wrinkly face. This image of God almost too limiting. When you strive to know God, WHAT GOD IS when He made the oceans “that the waters seems frightening. He could do such mirac- He will, in time, reveal to you his overall [John 4:9-10] 9 Then saith the would only go so far and no more,” relat- plans. Your goal should be to get knowl- ulous miracles, so powerful that He can woman of Samaria unto him, How is ing how He “rolled out the heavens as if it edge. Only then will you understand the real make mankind fearful and afraid of him. it that thou, being a Jew, askest were a curtain.” He was describing how This is the image most Christians have of purpose of life. When you learn about God, drink of me, which am a woman of He created the world. Job finally had to real- God. What are your thoughts of what God you finally know who God is. Samaria? for the Jews have no deal- ize what God was trying to explain to him. looks like? Compare your impression with [I Corinthians 13:11-13] 11 When I ings with the Samaritans. 10 Jesus He was seeing the Creator of the universe that of David’s impression: was a child, I spake as a child, I and His hand that made everything and answered and said unto her, “If thou [Psalm 27:1-4] 1 The LORD is my understood as a child, I thought as a everything that upholds it. knewest the gift of God, and who it is light and my salvation; whom shall I child: but when I became a man, I [Job 42:1-6[ 1 Then Job answered that saith to thee, Give me to drink; fear? the LORD is the strength of my put away childish things. 12 For now thou wouldest have asked of him, the LORD, and said, 2 I know that we see through a glass, darkly; but life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2 and he would have given thee living thou canst do every thing, and that then face to face: now I know in When the wicked, even mine ene- water.” no thought can be witholden from mies and my foes, came upon me to part; but then shall I know even as thee. 3 Who is he that hideth counsel eat up my flesh, they stumbled and also I am known. 13 And now [John 4:19-24] 19 The woman saith without knowledge? therefore have I fell. 3 Though an host should en- abideth faith, hope, charity, these unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art uttered that I understood not; things camp against me, my heart shall not three; but the greatest of these is a prophet. 20 Our fathers wor- too wonderful for me, which I knew fear: though war should rise against charity. shipped in this mountain; and ye say, not. 4 Hear I beseech thee, and I will me, in this will I be confident. 4 One that in Jerusalem is the place where KNOWING GOD GIVES UNDERSTANDING men ought to worship. 21 Jesus saith speak: I will demand of thee, and thing have I desired of the LORD, that declare thou until me. 5 I have heard will I seek after; that I may dwell in The world knows I Corinthians 13 as the unto her, Woman, believe me, the of thee by the hearing of the ear; but the house of the LORD all the days of love chapter. It tells you about real love, but hour cometh, when ye shall neither now mine eye seeth thee. 6 wherefore my life, to behold the beauty of the it also reveals something far more intricate in this mountain, nor yet at Jeru- I abhor myself, and repent in dust LORD, and to inquire in his temple. after the Apostle Paul tells about the differ- salem, worship the Father. 22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know and ashes. Why should you know this Being called ent gifts you should seek: faith, hope and what we worship: for salvation is of Job answered, “2 I know that thou canst God? David writes, “1 The Lord is my love or charity. The translation in the King the Jews. 23 But the hour cometh, do every thing and that no thought can be light and my salvation.” He acknowledges James uses the word “charity” rather than witholden from thee. 3 Who is he that this thought from the very beginning. As “love” because there are different types of and now is, when the true worship- hideth counsel without knowledge?” you study, you will understand why David love. In the Greek, there’s an intellectual pers shall worship the Father in spir- Job’s problem was he was “perfect in his was a man after God’s own heart. You will love, which is “agape.” This is not just talk- it and in truth: for the Father ways.” He depended on his righteousness. see how freely David opens his own heart to ing about an emotional love; it’s talking seeketh such to worship him. 24 God To come to a logical conclusion, you must God. He continued, “1 The Lord is my about an intellectual love, a giving, a chari- is a Spirit: and they that worship have all the facts before any reasonable dis- light and my salvation; whom shall I table, ever outward, a moving type of love him must worship him in spirit and cussion or solution can take place. No one fear? Of whom shall I be afraid?” He always concerned for the other. In reference in truth. can counsel or have discussions when you wasn’t afraid of God. He said, “The Lord is to knowing what God is and what He looks The account of the Samaritan woman have only partial knowledge about it. His the strength of my life.” In contrast, man like, you need to know what this definition coming to the well and Christ asking for argument was what? Who is God? Wasn’t has vulnerabilities just being in this human means to all Christians. “11 When I was a water is a most beautiful account. The disci- that what he argued about? He adds, “3 flesh. So, as with David, when you learn child” (speaking about these gifts), “I ples were shocked Jesus would talk to a Therefore, have I uttered that I under- more of God, those fears will diminish. spoke as a child. I understood as a child.” Samaritan woman. He says, “10 I’m going stood not; things too wonderful for me, David didn’t have those fears. He said, “Of Sounds like Job. It was as if Job was saying: to give you water of which you will never which I knew not. 4 Hear I beseech thee, whom shall I be afraid. 2 When the “Why should I counsel? I didn’t have thirst.” He tells her He is Christ, and He and I will speak. I will demand of thee, wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, knowledge.” He really didn’t have the cor- will give her living waters. In John 4, “19 and declare thou unto me.” Job, then came upon me to eat up my flesh, they rect facts. He didn’t have enough truth to The woman said unto him, ‘Sir, I perceive gives a summary of what he had learned, “5 stumbled and fell” (God was there for speak sensibly. Paul is saying, “11 When I that you are a prophet. 20 Our fathers I have heard of thee by the hearing of the him.) “3 Though a host” (talking about an was a child, I spoke like the child who worshiped in this mountain; and ye say ear.” God talks to you through his word, the army) “should encamp against me.” understands. I thought as a child, but CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE was in the flesh telling Phillip God looks Christ who was like the Father you will refers to “eons” or “ages.” With God there is that in Jerusalem is the place where men like Christ. He looks just as a human being experience joy. “5 This then is the mes- no time. The only way you can note time is ought to worship.’ 21 Jesus saith unto would look. Christ continued, “9 He that sage, which we have heard of him and when you have something to measure time her, ‘Woman believe me, the hour cometh hath seen me hath seen the Father.” He declared unto you, that” (now you can see with. If God weren’t the ancient of days but when ye shall neither in this mountain, wasn’t made of the substance of which the second substance of God) “God is old, it would mean He was young once. If nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Christ was made. Christ was in the flesh still Light.” you could measure that He was young once 22 Ye worship ye know not what. We on this earth. God is made of wind, consist- You now have two elements. God is and became old, that’s time. Instead, He’s know what we worship: for salvation is of ing of great energy. Christ’s height was made of (l) wind, and God is made of (2) just ancient. Notice the Bible refers to time the Jews.’ ” The Jews were given the ora- somewhere between 5 feet 7 inches and 6 light. All these electromagnetic forces, light, periods as “aonion” or “age lasting.” In fact, cles (or the truth) of God. They were to wor- feet 5 inches, and perhaps within that para- gamma rays, ultraviolet rays, nuclear forces, many religions call a “time span” occurring ship in the Temple where God resided. “23 meter is the height of God, the Father. He which even science has discovered, are in in one age period as dispensation. God has But the hour cometh, and now is, when has eyes, ears, mouth, legs, thighs—every- God. But long before the scientists discov- different ages to accomplish different the true worshippers shall worship the thing you have. He said, “9 He that hath ered this, God told you, “All those forces things—that’s dispensation. At one age, He Father in spirit and in truth.” seen me hath seen the Father.” It’s very are in God.” Only now science comes to the created the heaven and the earth. In another After the destruction of the temple, there plain; He looks like a man, but made of spir- place they finally realize the origin of all age, He made it habitable for Adam and was no physical place for Christians to get it or wind. Understand that wind is real even these forces is “light.” The most prevalent Eve. God is ancient because He always has together. Now, Jesus Christ resides in every though it cannot be seen. Did you ever see a material God is made of is light! Light has been, and is today, and always will be. tornado or a tsunami? Have you ever been converted Christian person. “For the power. In science, they found it’s made into GOD’S CLOTHING Father seeketh such to worship him” in a windstorm? That’s the power of God. If little packages called photons, and the ener- (those who worship in spirit). “24 God, is a you think of the scriptures where God was gy in these photons of light are filled with What type of clothing do you think God Spirit.” Spirit is a substance God is made telling Job all that God is, He stated, “I’m little waves. The higher frequency of the wears? God does not run around as today’s of. Mankind, on the other hand, has skin and in the frost. Even in the frost of winter, waves and faster the waves, the greater movie bare-chested heroes with oily, dis- bones, can be burned and end up in ashes. I’m in that.” Yes, He made the frost, too. If amount of energy is produced. The stronger gusting, sweaty skin. God appears to be You cannot be resurrected as skin and God weren’t constantly keeping the uni- the photons, the more energy produced. very modest. He is so modest that He’s bones. To be in the family of God, you will verse going, it would collapse, and all God is composed of light energy. Einstein clothed down to his feet. His clothing “was be resurrected as a spirit. The word “spirit” would be gone. was right. E = MC2. Energy—which is what white as snow.” It’s white. And there’s a specific reason for this. We are seeing God in the Greek language is “pneuma” (in the GOD’S SUBSTANCE God is—equals mass times the speed of New Testament.) It is “ruak” in the Old light squared. Now you know what God is looking like a human being. As Christ said, Testament, both meaning “wind,” “a huge “10 Believest thou not that I am in the made of. He’s made of light, and he’s made “Just as he was.” We know He’s made of blast of wind” as powerful as a tornado. Father, and the Father in me? The words of spirit. Isn’t it ironic when you start to light, and He’s made of spirit. He’s been Wind cannot be seen. You can only see what that I speak unto you I speak not of look at His physical makeup, you see every- around forever, and now we find He wears it can and does whip up within itself. You myself: but the Father that dwelleth in thing about him radiates a powerful light. garments. “And his garment was white as see all the debris it carries, but never the me, he doeth the works.” Jesus Christ him- Even beyond these little photons, they’re snow, and the hair of his head was like wind itself. You feel its impact or energy, self plainly tells you He and the Father look finding little squiggly things—“strings”? pure wool.” You mean God has curly hair? and you can see the damage it does. You the same. God looks as a human being These are little light particles that are com- When one looks at a herd of sheep and know the force of the wind; so this force is looks. He’s made of spirit, but there’s more. posed of energy. You can look at a light bulb notices their hair, it’s curly, isn’t it? Did you the construction of God’s energy. It is ener- [I John 1:1-5] 1 That which was from in a room, and it illuminates. You probably ever think of God having curly white hair? gy that is constantly on the move, all the the beginning, which we have heard, don’t think of the light as a force. What is The Scriptures confirm it. God just natural- time, a self-perpetuating energy. God is self- which we have seen with our eyes, electricity? Electricity is energy. So God is a ly has his hair looking like wool. We now perpetuating energy. You can learn how which we have looked upon, and our great amount of energy. What type of ener- have two more descriptions of how God energy works and how it functions within hands have handled, of the Word of gy? He’s all put together in a way that if you looks. But what is missing? No beard. What His body. God is made of wind or energy life; 2 (For the life was manifested, beheld him He would be “delightfully comes out from his presence? Fiery flames? propelling the wind. and we have seen it, and bear witness, pleasant.” He’s very handsome. No wrin- He’s made of light energy and spirit. If you [Romans 1:20] For the invisible and shew unto you that eternal life, kles, no long white hair or beard, no crinkly, are in front of him with his woolly hair, things of him from the creation of the which was with the Father, and was wrinkly skin. there are all kinds of flames coming out from him. Daniel 7, “9 His throne was like world are clearly seen, being under- manifested unto us;) 3 That which we [Daniel 7:1] In the first year of the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning stood by the things that are made, have seen and heard declare we unto Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel fire.” Notice, His throne also has wheels as even his eternal power and God- you, that ye also may have fellowship had a dream and visions of his head burning fire. head; so that they are without with us: and truly our fellowship is upon his bed: then he wrote of the excuse. with the Father, and with his Son dream, and told the sum of the mat- [Ezekiel 1:4-7] 4 And I looked, and, behold, a whirlwind came out of the The invisible things of God by the things Jesus Christ. 4 And these things write ters. north, a great cloud, and a fire that He has created. God is telling you He is we unto you, that your joy may be [Daniel 7:9] I beheld till the thrones infolding itself, and a brightness was like the wind. There is an electrical energy full. 5 This then is the message which were cast down, and the Ancient of about it, and out of the midst thereof from the wind. Manmade windmills can we have heard of him and declare days did sit, whose garment was as the colour of amber, out of the create energy. So God’s energy creates this unto you, that God is light, and in him white as snow, and the hair of his midst of the fire. 5 Also out of the electricity, through which you will see what is no darkness at all. head like the pure wool: his throne midst thereof came the likeness of His body looks like. You will see lightnings, As you put line upon line, precept upon was like the fiery flame, and his four living creatures. And this was along with energy of blowing wind. God is precept, all the unknown mysteries of God wheels as burning fire. a combination of all these electromagnetic will be pieced together, so you can see the their appearance; they had the like- To solidify another part of the puzzle in ness of man. 6 And every one had forces. Yet these forces are just a part of complete (as humanly possible) picture of the Old Testament, Daniel had the same what He’s made of. the puzzle. It sounds almost sacrilegious. four faces, and every one had four information John had in the New Testament. wings. 7 And their feet were straight [John 14:8-10] 8 Philip saith unto Yet, God has laid it all out for you, so, in Nebuchadnezzar, the King of Babylon, had feet; and the sole of their feet was him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it truth, you will see what God is and what He a dream about a big image. Daniel explains like the sole of a calf’s foot: and they sufficeth us. 9 Jesus saith unto him, looks like. “1 That which was from the to the king: “This image and the interpre- sparkled like the colour of burnished Have I been so long time with you, beginning, which we have heard, which tation, he says is you. You are the head of brass. and yet hast thou not known me, we have seen with our eyes, which we this image.” (The four kingdoms that will [Ezekiel 1:27-28] 27 And I saw as the Philip? he that hath seen me hath have looked upon and our hands have exist until the return of Christ. The first colour of amber, as the appearance of seen the Father; and how sayest thou handled, of the Word of life” (speaking of one:) “1 In the first year of Belshazzar, then, Shew us the Father? 10 Christ). “2 For the life was manifested, king of Babylon, Daniel had a dream and fire round about within it, from the Believest thou not that I am in the and we have seen it.” (This is the Apostle visions of his head upon his bed: then he appearance of his loins even upward, Father, and the Father in me? the John saying he saw Jesus, along with the wrote of the dream, and told the sum of and from the appearance of his loins words that I speak unto you I speak other Apostles, and lived with Jesus.) the matters.” Then the angel reveals in even downward, I saw as it were the not of myself: but the Father that “And shew unto you that eternal life, Daniel 7:9 the dream about the animals that appearance of fire, and it had bright- dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. which was with the Father, and was man- would rule. “9 I beheld till the thrones ness round about. 28 As the appear- “8 Shew us the Father, and it sufficeth ifested unto us. 3 That which we have were cast down.” This is after all the earth- ance of the bow that is in the cloud of us.” They wanted to see God. They would seen and heard declare we unto you, that ly rulership have been completed and all the the day of rain, so was the appear- be satisfied if they could see what God ye also may have fellowship with us: and kingdoms of the world are finished. “9 The ance of the brightness round about. looked like. “9 Have I been so long time truly our fellowship is with the Father, thrones were cast down, and the ancient This was the appearance of the like- with you, and yet hast thou not known and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4 And of days did sit.” You start to have a descrip- ness of the glory of the LORD. And me, Phillip? He that hath seen me hath these things write we unto you, and your tion of God, and how old is He? He’s when I saw it, I fell upon my face, seen the father. And how sayeth thou joy may be full.” With the knowledge of ancient. Not old—it doesn’t say old, it says and I heard a voice of one that spake. then, shew us the Father?” Jesus Christ this information, he’s telling you by seeing He’s ancient. This Hebrew word “ancient” CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE wonderful and that handsome. said unto God ‘Who am I, that I should God and only one God. He is the only exist- In Ezekiel 1, you read about the Bible’s “28 the appearance of the bow.” This go unto Pharaoh?’ (when told to take the ing one. The one and only one! God is One. UFOs. More people get into trouble over brightness exuding from him is as the children of Israel out of Egypt) ‘And that I The Books of Job and Proverbs tell you UFOs. They write books, start clubs, open appearance of the bow in the cloud in the should bring forth the children of Israel that when God makes a decree all he has to tourist areas and start religions with various day of rain. What type of brightness sur- out of Egypt.’ 12 And He said, ‘Certainly, do is stretch the heavens as a curtain. That UFO beliefs. They spend their time looking rounds God? The rainbow from God’s light I’ll be with thee; and this shall be a token motion in the heavens could have been the for aliens. Thousands of years ago, God energy. His glory radiates a rainbow! Is it unto thee that I have sent thee. When Big Bang. It should now be more significant wrote about a type of UFO. Ezekiel was in any wonder that in Noah’s day God could thou hast brought forth the people out of than ever. If God didn’t exist, what would captivity in Babylon disclosing this vision, not have given a better promise than to say, Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this happen to the universe? It would be gone. which is a prophecy yet to come. And he “I will never again flood the earth”? He was mountain.’ 13 And Moses said unto God, God upholds the whole universe, and every- says, “4 And I looked, and, behold, a giving His covenant of the rainbow in the ‘Behold, when I come unto the children thing and everyone in it. whirlwind came out of the north.” What heavens, and this promise comes straight of Israel” (not only before Pharaoh but the [Genesis 5:1-2] 1 This is the book of is God like? A blast such as a tornado. “A from God from His throne. When you children of Israel), “and shall say unto the generations of Adam. In the day great cloud, and fire infolding itself.” In behold God and see the brightness which them ‘The God of your fathers has sent that God created man, in the likeness this cloud, there was something so energetic exudes from him, you see blue, violet, me unto you’ ” (notice: The God of your of God made he him; 2 Male and it had hot flames. It was fire—almost an orange, yellow, red, all the brilliant hues, all fathers, so they knew the God of the fathers. female created he them; and blessed atomic blast of energy. “And a brightness the magnificent colors of the rainbow com- What they didn’t know was His name) them, and called their name Adam, was about it, and out of the midst thereof ing from God. If you remember the movie “hath sent me unto you; they shall surely in the day when they were created. as the colour of amber, out of the midst of Wizard of Oz, it had a wizard who lived in say to me. What is his name? what shall I As you found in I John, God looks like a the fire.” So you know He looks human, Oz. When the movie first showed the wiz- say unto them?’ 14 And God said unto human being. Genesis 1 and Genesis 5 tell made of energy (wind and light), and now ard’s throne, it showed the rainbow. Moses, ‘I am that I am.’ ” In the Hebrew, you He made mankind in His image, but you see an amber color. Many different col- Remember the song “Somewhere Over the only the consonants are used—“JHVH.” No much more. It explains why man and ors exude from God. This is confirmed in Rainbow”? They took the rainbow from the one would attempt to pronounce it because woman are to become one flesh. In Genesis the Greek and Hebrew languages. Some Bible’s description of God’s throne and used no one knew the vowels. It is just JHVH. 5, “2 Male and female created he them in definitions do not specify the exact colors, it in the movie. This wizard or the man-made It’s translated exactly that way. In Hebrew his image.” What does that mean? Even but God is composed of over 20 different god in the movie was supposed to be beam- where it says, “I am that I am,” it is saying though God is a male as a being, all the jewels. This might give you an inkling as to ing with this brightness and glorious emer- what He actually is. He said, “You shall say DNA of a female and the male is in Him. why women like jewelry so much. To look ald colors of the rainbow. “28 So was the unto the children of Israel, ‘I am’ has sent The author has to use the word DNA or upon God, it appears as if you’re looking appearance of the brightness round you.” All of which means—‘I’m the exist- genes to make an attempt to explain this. upon glowing magnificent jewels, an entire- about. This was the appearance of the ing one.’ Who is what He is? In Hebrew, it Many times women think they are left out. ly different picture than most had of God. likeness of the glory of the Lord.” How means the ‘existing one’—the ‘only exist- They’re not left out; they are as much a part They see amber, and “5 out of the midst many times in the Bible do you hear the ing one.’ This ties in with the ancient of of God as the male. The ‘light’ substance thereof came the likeness of four living statement “The glory of the Lord”? In the days, meaning He always existed. He exists that is God is both male and female, and He creatures.” This was their appearance. Hebrew language they call it “shekinah.” In today, and he always will exist. But the said, “And he called their name Adam.” They had the likeness of a man. Then it the days before the temple was destroyed, name means much more; it means the one Why did they both take the same name of describes four cherubim. The cherubim the Levitical priesthood said they heard a who ‘always exists.’ In other words, He is the husband and not a husband’s name and have four wings, and they are part of a voice echoing, “It’s going; it’s going.” It was self-life. He is perpetual energy. He needs a wife’s name? Because God is the existing wheel within a wheel—just as a UFO where the “shekinah” or the Glory of God (all nothing outside of himself. He is everything one, and He is male and female all in one; it has a wheel, and then it has a wheel with- God’s brilliance and power) that was that is. This has a lot deeper meaning than all humans belong to ‘I Am.’ Adam was a in that wheel. In Ezekiel 1, “27 I saw as the going—literally leaving the temple. When just saying, “You’re a God.” You could use symbol, a figure, of Christ as God altogeth- colour of amber, as the appearance of fire the people entered the Temple before it was Elohim, which is plural, or “more than one” er, and men are to be one flesh with their round about within it, from the appear- destroyed, God’s very presence was there as speaking universally. It’s speaking of all his wives. That’s the express reason men and ance of his loins even upward,” describing the spirit, His Glory or “shekinah.” When Godliness. As opposed to, “I alone as God women marry, to become one flesh. God is God. From God’s loins upward the color looking up the word glory, “Glory of the is the existing one,” or when he says “El One. All that man and woman are is in God. you see is amber, an alloy of silver and gold. Lord” means “copious splendor.” When the Shaddai, the almighty one.” Those are Did you realize that the DNA of the female “his loins upward”—which means from Bible speaks of the Glory of the Lord, it’s titles, but JHVH is his name. His name can as well as the male is in God? And the word, roughly about his thighs upward is this talking about a being. When something is never apply to anything or any other being “Elohim,” or God’s leading you, gives you amber color exuding from God. In the color copious, it’s “saturated”—“saturated splen- because He is the only existing one. an additional piece of the puzzle for you to spectrum (the rainbow), white is not consid- dor.” (Saturated like a multitude of jewels). [Exodus 20:1-4] 1 And God spake all put together. It’s a beautiful picture and a ered a color as all the colors of the rainbow That’s the Glory of the Lord. David knew these words, saying, 2 I am the beautiful message. contain white. So, the more intense some- this, and Job finally came to see it. Now it’s LORD thy God, which have brought [I John 1:5] This then is the message thing is in energy or heat or light, the your turn to know the Glory of the Lord. thee out of the land of Egypt, out of which we have heard of him and brighter or more ‘white’ it is. When the Going before God in prayer, and realizing the house of bondage. 3 Thou shalt declare unto you, that God is light, color spectrum opens up as a rainbow, the the magnificence of God is mind-boggling. have no other gods before me. 4 and in him is no darkness at all. next levels after white are the blues and the Thou shalt not make unto thee any [Exodus 3:11-14] 11 And Moses said Compare the extremes—what God is and violets. As the color spectrum unfolds and graven image, or any likeness of any unto God, Who am I, that I should what God isn’t. “5 This then is the mes- the energy becomes less, it goes into the thing that is in heaven above, or that go unto Pharaoh, and that I should sage which we have heard of him and reds and oranges and yellows and then the bring forth the children of Israel out is in the earth beneath, or that is in declare unto you, that God is light. And in bronzes. of Egypt? 12 And he said, Certainly I the water under the earth. Him is no darkness at all.” You may have will be with thee; and this shall be a Next we find the face of God exudes the Why does God tell you in the second seen little gadgets you put in the sunlight, token unto thee, that I have sent greatest source of energy. From his head, commandment “4 not to make any images which makes the gadget spin—a radiome- and from his face, it is this whiteness rush- thee: When thou hast brought forth even of his likeness”? Think about the pic- ter. How can sunlight make that gadget ing up from his thighs upward in the color the people out of Egypt, ye shall tures depicting Christ, the idols, icons, stat- spin? Sun has energy on the spindle and it blue hue. A comparison may be a diamond serve God upon this mountain. 13 ues or the pictures you see of God and His reflects the light. There are little white with a spark of blue shimmering within. And Moses said unto God, Behold, Son. It’s unbelievable. How could anyone squares. There are also little black squares Imagine bumping into a Being who looks when I come unto the children of ever think of making an image of God? It’s on the spindle, and those black squares this radiant. Most Christians or religions do Israel, and shall say unto them, The unthinkable. It’s impossible. God says, absorb the light. The white squares move not know God has disclosed this much God of your fathers hath sent me “Don’t do it because it will be a lie.” The from the light, but not the black squares. about himself. “27 The appearance of his unto you, and they shall say to me, second commandment is so powerful (“You And in God there is no darkness. That’s why loins even downwards, I saw as it were What is his name? what shall I say shall make no images even of me”) that it there are black holes. Black holes can build the appearance of fire, and it had bright- unto them? 14 And God said unto shouldn’t and can’t be done. When artists up energy that can actually swallow up the ness round about.” In other words, it Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, try, people begin to worship those dumb exudes so much energy from His body, the Thus shalt thou say unto the children false images. A person might say, “I know light. God has no darkness. Nothing but whole is so bright, it’s no wonder David of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. that’s not God, but it makes me think about light and only light. said, “All I want to do is sit in the temple God is called by a particular name. In God.” No, it doesn’t. It doesn’t make any- There are two beings. One being is the of God and look at his beauty?” There’s reality, God has many names, some are titles one think about God because God doesn’t son of the other. They both look alike. yet another surprise as to what he looks like. (telling what He is or what He is doing at a look like that. How powerful that com- They’re both of the same ‘I Am’ family. Remember, from the invisible things of God particular time), but He has a specific name, mandment is when you know its true mean- Adam was of that family; he and his wife we can see his creation. Those colors are so which is very hard to pronounce. In fact, the ing. Now you understand why that com- were one. The Son and the Father are one, magnificent, so overpowering, so delightful Israelites were never able to pronounce it. mandment is there for you and all Christians exactly as Adam and Eve were one. that all you’d like to do is sit in amazement That name was so holy that they never to obey. It’s easier to understand the First [Revelation 1:8] I am Alpha and looking at Him. He’s that awesome, that attempted to pronounce it. “11 and Moses Commandment when he says there is one CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE should follow God’s admonition to look as the sun shineth in His strength.” (This is ther to look thereon. 5 And one of the Omega, the beginning and the end- he looks. the Son. Does the Father look the same?) elders saith unto me, ‘Weep not: behold, ing, saith the Lord, which is, and [I Corinthians 11:7-15] 7 For a man [Revelation 5:2-7] 2 And I saw a the lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of which was, and which is to come, the indeed ought not to cover his head, strong angel proclaiming with a loud David, hath prevailed to open the book, Almighty. forasmuch as he is the image and voice, Who is worthy to open the and to loose the seven seals thereof.’ 6 [Revelation 1:12-14] 12 And I turned glory of God: but the woman is the book, and to loose the seals thereof? And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne.” to see the voice that spake with me. glory of the man. 8 For the man is 3 And no man in heaven, nor in (The Father’s throne had a sardine stone with a jasper and emerald rainbow And being turned, I saw seven gold- not of the woman; but the woman of earth, neither under the earth, was above his head. He said then,) “6 In the en candlesticks; 13 And in the midst the man. 9 Neither was the man cre- able to open the book, neither to look of the seven candlesticks one like thereon. 4 And I wept much, because midst of the throne, and of the four ated for the woman; but the woman beasts, and in the midst of the elders, unto the Son of man, clothed with a for the man. 10 For this cause ought no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look stood a lamb” (speaking of Christ) “as it garment down to the foot, and girt the woman to have power on her thereon. 5 And one of the elders saith had been slain, having seven heads and about the paps with a golden girdle. head because of the angels. 11 unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion seven horns and seven eyes, which are the 14 His head and his hairs were white Nevertheless neither is the man with- seven spirits of God sent forth into all the like wool, as white as snow; and his of the tribe of Juda, the Root of out the woman, neither the woman David, hath prevailed to open the earth. 7 And he came and took the book eyes were as flame of fire. without the man, in the LORD. 12 For book, and to loose the seven seals out of the right hand of him that sat upon “8 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the as the woman is of the man, even so thereof. 6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the throne.” Jesus as the slain lamb went to beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, is the man also by the woman; but all the midst of the throne, and of the the Father and received the book to open it. which is, and which was, and which is to things of God. 13 Judge in your- four beasts, and in the midst of the In Revelation 4 and 5, the Father sitting on come, the Almighty.” Here he is telling you selves: is it comely that a woman elders, stood a Lamb as it had been the throne looks the same as Jesus in He is what the beginning and the ending is pray unto God uncovered? 14 Doth slain, having seven horns and seven Revelation 1. Jesus and the Father not only supposed to be. So whether in the beginning not even nature itself teach you, that, eyes, which are the seven Spirits of look like human beings, they, in their glory, or the end, you are going to see what He’s if a man have long hair, it is a shame God sent forth into all the earth. 7 also look like each other, as members of one like. “12 And I turned to see the voice”— unto him? 15 But if a woman have And he came and took the book out family—God’s family. This is who and the Apostle John turned to see this voice that long hair, it is a glory to her: for her of the right hand of him that sat what God looks like. His name is ‘I Am,’ spoke to him—“and being turned I saw hair is given her for a covering. upon the throne. and He looks like a human being. He’s seven golden candlesticks. And in the [Revelation 4:2-7] 2 And immediate- made of spirit and, primarily, a super, pow- The Apostle Paul reiterated the same erful light. His body glistens like jewels midst of the seven candlesticks, one like information in I Corinthians 11:7-15. God’s ly I was in the spirit: and, behold, a unto the Son of man.” Who is this in the throne was set in heaven, and one sat with changing colors. The brightness from a male even though the female strain is in around Him gives off the colors of a rain- middle of the golden candlesticks—Jesus on the throne. 3 And he that sat was him. No long hair, no beard, and not old, but bow. This is what your God and my God Christ? You will now see what Christ looks to look upon like a jasper and a sar- ancient—a completely different picture of looks like. He is the one and only God. like after his resurrection. dine stone: and there was a rainbow the one you have known. These are the electromagnetic powers that “13 Clothed with a garment down to round about the throne, in sight like [Revelation 1:15-16] 15 And his feet unto an emerald. science is beginning to discover. But these the foot.” He is fully clothed in a modest like unto fine brass, as if they burned breathtaking revelations have been in your In Revelation 5 is the account of the book manner and wears a belt. “And girt about in a furnace; and his voice as the Bible all these thousands of years. with the seven seals, which no man was able the paps with a golden girdle.” A golden sound of many waters. 16 And he In summary, God is composed of perpet- to open, and John began to cry. And the girdle! He must believe in quality. You’ve had in his right hand seven stars: ual energy like the wind. Primarily, He is angel told him, “Don’t worry, there’s one already proved his hair was like wool. But made of photons, or light. He is ancient, not and out of his mouth went a sharp here “2 Who is worthy to open the book, here we see that “14 his head and his hairs old. There are no wrinkles, no deterioration twoedged sword: and his counte- and to loose the seals thereof?” Revelation were white like wool.” So his hair looks of his body but a continual glorious glowing nance was as the sun shineth in his 4, “2 And immediately, I was in the spir- like wool, and it’s of a white color. Why is of gem colors exuding from Him as a rain- strength. it: and, behold, a throne was set in it white? White carries the whole color bow and changeable garments at his com- “15 And his feet like unto fine brass.” Heaven and one sat on the throne. And he spectrum. “As white as snow; and his eyes mand. His face and His hair are a brilliant The face is the peak source of his energy that sat was to look upon like a jasper.” white (all the color spectrum). His hair is were as a flame of fire.” Energy is coming (his brain). White is the intensity, somewhat (At times He was amber.) “And a sardine curly like wool and short. Proceeding down right out from God’s eyes. If you looked as the sun. The lower part is amber. Going stone: and there was a rainbow round his body, His color is blue, violet and right into his eyes, you’d see burning fire, an down to his feet (burnished brass) where about the throne, in sight like unto an becoming like burnished brass at his legs. intense temperature unknown to man. His there’s less energy. There are 20 gems in the emerald.” (There’s an emerald rainbow The brilliance from His body surrounds hair is white (but no long hair); his face is New Jerusalem. So if you virtually were about the head, and the whole color spec- Him like the colors of a rainbow and the white (no beard). (There is a time to have looking at God, He changes color. (What trum of brightness exudes out of his body.) emerald color above His head. His name is, long hair when you are under a vow.) God race is God? He’s a combination of all the “4 And round about the throne were the “I Am, JHVH, the EXISTING ONE.” doesn’t live under a vow, so he doesn’t need races!) “16 And He had in his right hand four and twenty seats and upon the seats long hair. God doesn’t break his own laws. seven stars.” (You will see later these seven are twenty-four elders sitting.” (To see Job and David knew who God was and Women are to have long hair because they stars are angels.) “And out of his mouth who this is, read Revelation 5:4.) “And I what he looked like; now you know who are under the authority of their husbands. went a sharp twoedged sword and his wept much, because no man was found God is and what He looks like. Men are not to have long hair, as they countenance” (or his appearance) “was as worthy to open and to read the book, nei- © 2003 ARTHUR C. MOKAROW Subjects to be covered in God’s Puzzle Solved, Volume 1

Is God Real? (God—the only logical God’s Library (God’s plan written in His The Covenants (God writes His law in our answer for the universe) mind) hearts and minds) God’s Puzzle (Bible purposely written as a God’s Mind Revealed (Bible story from Lucifer, God’s Helper (God uses Satan in puzzle) Genesis to Revelation) His Plan) Who Is God? (God’s essence and what The True Gospel (Goodness of God’s God’s Eternal Fire (The purpose of the He looks like) spiritual kingdom) Lake of Fire) God’s Character and Personality (God’s Marriage, the Great Mystery (Bible is all God’s Kingdom (The love and beauty of nature and His powers) about a marriage) God’s spiritual kingdom)

God’s Puzzle Solved (Volume 1) will be printed in the Fall of 2003. It will Send to: be sent free of charge. No moneys are ever accepted. Please honor this request. For your free copy, please print your name on label at right (will be used for mailing). Mail to: Art Mokarow 9775 Pozos Lane Conroe, TX 77303-2105

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Spiritual Leaders The MIRACLE and Other Major Issues Concerning the Body of Christ of the MANNA A Book that Gives Answers to Many Issues of Vital Interest to the Elect Are you sure you got the right message? The majority of the Sovereign Father’s elect want to think of themselves as having godly attributes and behaviors. However, very few have care- fully examined what is required in order to be found worthy of special consideration, empowerment, and protection in the end of this age. Ex. 16:4: “Then the Lord (Yahweh) said to Moses, Behold I will rain bread from the heavens for you; and the people shall go out and gath- According to Revelation chapters two and three, in the end of the age, er A DAY’S PORTION EVERY DAY, that I may PROVE them, whether six-sevenths of those who have been called will be punished by Christ for they will walk in My law or not. V-29: See the Lord (Yahweh) has given their failure to diligently pursue righteousness. According to the parable you the Sabbath, therefore He gives you on the SIXTH day the of the ten virgins, at least fifty percent of the elect are unprepared for the BREAD FOR TWO DAYS”! (Lesson in Sabbath keeping)! first resurrection. The reality is that the majority of the Father’s elect are Church in serious trouble spiritually and woefully unprepared to engage the Note the capitalized portions carefully, only on the sixth day is more than a “day’s” portion allowed to be gathered. Also note the following instruc- enemy. tions, V-19: “Let none of it be left until morning”! (See also Lev. 7:15.) of God For many of the elect, the discovery of the identity of the church of Did the Israelites who had FORGOTTEN when the Sabbath was in Philadelphia will come too late, which is what the parable of the ten vir- Egyptian captivity, get the message and willingly OBEY? NO! gins teaches. Clearly the time to identify and cultivate the Philadelphian attitude and behavior is before it becomes apparent that one is a member V-20: “But they did not listen to Moses, some of them left it until morning; Big of one of the other six churches described in the book of Revelation. and it BRED WORMS, became FOUL and STANK, and Moses was angry with them. V-21: “they gathered it EVERY MORNING each as much as he Through the Prophet Hosea, God said, “My people are destroyed for lack needed; for when the sun became HOT IT MELTED.” Sandy of knowledge: because you have rejected knowledge, I will also reject When was it given for each day? you, that you shall not be my priest: seeing you have forgotten the law of you God, I will also forget your children.” The lack of and rejection of Ex. 16:13: “In the evening quails came up and covered the camp; and in reminds knowledge are the primary reasons for the following: the MORNING the dew lay round about the camp. And when the dew had gone, behold, upon the face of the wilderness there lay a fine, round, and • The disappearance of apostolic church as a powerful, unified entity. flake-like thing, as fine as hoar-frost on the ground” (Amplified). you to • The failure of the Worldwide Church of God to remain faithful to God DEW does not last long when the sun comes up! The message? Start the Father and his Son. your day at DAWN; don’t wait for the sun to get hot. • The continuing disunity and doctrinal chaos within the Father’s earth- V-22: “And on the SIXTH DAY (remember, in the morning) they gathered ask ly family today. TWICE as much bread” (Manna). “Spiritual Leaders and Other issues Concerning the Body of Christ” not Once again, what is the significance? only discusses the problems and their cause but also provides vital infor- mation concerning how to make sure that one does not fall prey to the The next verse is CRITICAL! V-23: “TO-MORROW is a solemn rest, a Holy Sabbath to Yahweh, bake and boil what you will bake and boil destructive forces at work within the majority of the congregations of TODAY; (sixth) and all that remains over put aside for you to keep UNTIL A Church of God today. MORNING.” YES, MORNING, not evening, was the beginning of the 7th God in Scotland This book provides answers to many questions that many would like to day! A small group of Sabbath ask, but may be afraid to ask because of fear of ridicule or excommuni- Strange, isn’t it, the Creator is TEACHING them when the Sabbath is, cation. If you are serious about your salvation, you cannot afford to be even performing a miracle to emphasize the point, yet HE did not inspire keepers meets fortnightly without the knowledge contained in this book. Moses to say, “this evening at sunset is the Sabbath” as per Jewish tradi- on Saturdays for Bible tion! Neither did He tell them to keep it only for the evening meal when Study and uplifting This book is a hard hitting, forthright, no-nonsense look at the problems that face the Father’s elect today and the simple biblical solutions, which according to “Jewish tradition” a new day (sic) would start at SUNSET, discussion. The venue is (sic) rather until the NEXT day, in the MORNING. will result in eternal and immortal life for those who truly hear and heed in Central Scotland. what the spirit is saying to the churches. What was the actual miracle? Visitors welcome. Each topic is carefully researched and analyzed from a Biblical perspec- V-24: “They laid it aside UNTIL MORNING, as Moses told them; and it DID Enquiries: Please phone tive and focused on the importance of knowing your enemy within and NOT BECOME FOUL, NEITHER WAS IT WORMY”! (44) 07050-235490. without the congregations. Topics include how to survive spiritual war- FOLLOW THE CONTEXT: For 5 nights some disobedient Israelites HAD Email: [email protected] fare and how to be about the Father’s business in order to secure eternal tried to keep the manna overnight but it was unfit to eat the next morning, Website: http://myweb. salvation. but on the 6th night miraculously it remained PERFECTLY FRESH, EDI- BLE as FOOD FOR ALL OF THE SEVENTH DAY! Note again; tiscali.co.uk/sdcuk/ About the author: B.L. Cocherell has dedicated almost 40 years to bibli- homepage.htm cal research, authoring and co-authoring eight books, and publishing over V-25: Moses said, eat that TO-DAY; for TO-DAY is a SABBATH to the 200 in-depth studies on various aspects of the Sovereign Father’s plan for Eternal, TO-DAY you shall find none in the field.” NOTE again, it says humanity. His life experiences cover a wide range of professions, which nothing about the evening/NIGHT before being part of the Sabbath! include construction, engineering, supervision, education, and spiritual Did this miracle convince them? Advertising deadline: leadership. Contact Darlene Warren at V-27: “On the SEVENTH DAY (read morning) some of the people went out “Spiritual Leaders and Other Issues Concerning the Body of Christ” is to gather, but they FOUND NONE”! Also read V-28-29! [email protected], 2150 Catalpa a 372-page 5 × 8 paperback and is free of charge as long as supplies last. Rd., Big Sandy, Texas 75755, However, help with the shipping and handling is appreciated. What is the lesson for today? U.S.A., or (903) 636-4470 to check Order this book from The Congregation of God, P.O. Box 612440, Simply this, we should “prove all things” BELIEVING SCRIPTURE, not on the deadline for the current San Jose, CA 95161, or online at www.BibleResearch.org or blindly following “Jewish myths and fables” (Titus 1:14) just as we no issue and to place your ad today. www.BibleProphecy.net. longer follow the pagan derived Christian traditions we rejected on prov- ing they deviated from scripture. If your mind rejects this message, remember this: The Creator does not contradict Himself! Scriptures you have been led to Church of God Big Sandy believe teach an “evening to evening day” (sic) do not say that. We will pro- vide the evidence in future ads. In the meantime, we have numerous arti- cles available that explore the scriptures to determine consistency of Old and New Testament teaching about when a DAY starts! Check our web- site: CHURCH ON THE TELEPHONE CHURCH ON THE www.patriotsofthekingdom.org. Simply dial 918-222-7103 INTERNET When prompted, enter Conference Call Code 6289# See details at YES, there was much more involved than just showing the Israelites 1 p.m. Central time every Sabbath WHICH day was the 7th. It also taught them WHAT A DAY IS! That is a www.BigSandyChurch.org VITAL foundational understanding that would do away with many of the The per-minute long-distance cost to you will depend on Service starts at 1 p.m. Central arguments among Sabbatarians! The “divisive issues” of whether your long-distance rate time every Sabbath Passover is early or late 14th (or 15th), when the Israelites left Egypt, Message available for streaming when the Messiah was crucified, buried and resurrected, ALL directly www.BigSandyChurch.org or downloading beginning one relate to the FALSE Jewish tradition of an evening to evening DAY! hour later Just like Christians claim to have “Christianized” pagan holidays with new 1-800-946-5545 meanings, Judah is also deceived (Rev. 12:9) having accepted some Greek Hellenist philosophies, just as they “borrowed” many pagan con- TAPE PROGRAM FEAST SITES cepts from the Babylonians in creating a new calendar. Monthly package of eight Big Sandy, Texas—Church of God Big Sandy’s building For further research on this crucial new understanding, request E-mail- messages on four tapes Destin, Florida—Pelican Beach Resort able essays titled: “New Testament PROOFS Days DO NOT Begin at Write Church of God Big Sandy, Angel Fire, New Mexico—Angel Fire Community Center Evening” and “Twelve Reasons WHY the Jewish Calendar is NOT P.O. Box 690, Big Sandy, TX Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin—Park Place Hotel, Baraboo, Wis. Biblical,” or write us: 75755 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina—Ocean Reef Resort Patriots of the Kingdom Or visit www.BigSandyChurch.org Ste. 424 • 6-6855 Airport Rd. • Mississauga, ON L4V 1Y9 • Canada

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shooting a moving target, but anyone in the instruction instead of as merely acts of an area is more likely to get shot accidentally that angry God. way. We are not to harden our hearts toward poor Considering the question of hunting led me brethren, nor aid them in a grieving manner Soft Hearts to the larger issue of vivisection that was very (De 15:7-10). Though someone merely lazy is well explained by advocates against it as dead to be prodded by hunger pangs (2 Th 3:10). We wrong. How we treat animals tells a lot about should not be so soft we feed another’s bad ourselves (Pr 12:10). habit as giving money to a drunk so he can buy od enacted some laws for the Israelites intended for us. Also, dominance of males over God allowed swearing (De 6:13), but liquor. A man did just that after begging for which He did not intend for them to females is detrimental; not to be treated as there is no need to swear an oath. Just Yes or money to buy a can of beans. Gkeep! He only provided concessions mere property, having no say. Leading is dif- No is enough (Mat 5:33-37). A truthful person Here is a classic example. Before a music based on the hardness of their hearts. Here are ferent from domineering. Again, though per- need not verify his word, while a liar will still recital by the famed pianist Jan Paderewski, some examples. You can find more on your fectly legal according to what God stated to lie despite an oath. men in tuxedos and ladies in long gowns were own. Not every law God commanded does He easily divorce then. In a confrontation harsh words provoke milling about and chatting. A mother brought desire we keep (though be careful which you If a man had 2 wives, the firstborn was anger, while a soft answer turns away strife (Pr her son to interest him in playing the piano, but don’t!). still to be given a double portion even in the 15:1). We must learn to be peacemakers (Mat got distracted while conversing and he wended He told the Israelites through Moses that a case when he is the son of the hated wife (De 5:9), not be advocates of war to solve problems up to the piano on stage and began playing married woman could be divorced for 21:15-17). God was making sure the callous- (Ps 120:7; 2 Cor 10:3-5 we war not after the Chopsticks badly. “uncleanness” (De 24:1). This was construed ness of the human heart didn’t adversely affect flesh). Jonah learned the hard way to have a People yelled out: Get that kid out of there! as divorce for most any reason. The word fairness of rights. And here again, equalness of soft spot even for enemies (Jon 4:10-11). Where’s his mother? Somebody do something! means nudity, figurative or apparently expos- females with males an issue as the practice was King Ahab was warned of dire conse- The master pianist was almost ready when he ing too much of herself literally. If women for multiple wives, not husbands. quences if he continued evil. He repented, fast- heard the commotion and hurried up. Did he wore as much clothing as burkas with only Jacob’s marriage with Rachel and Leah ed and went softly (1 K 21:20-29). Ahab’s quickly put his arms around the boy and yank face and hands exposed to strangers (still the should have demonstrated the trouble involved response was opposite of his previous arrogan- him out of there? No! He played along with custom in Mid-East nations) this wouldn’t take and this despite all 3 being righteous. Also, cy as if stomping on anything in his path. him and encouraged, saying That’s it! Keep much! common practice of the day as ‘loaning’ a Job 23:16 For God maketh my heart soft, going! The audience applauded. Jesus later explained this law was intended slave woman to procreate with as barren Sarah and the Almighty troubleth me: Some transla- His soft heart meant: Audience was corrected for those hard-hearted (Mat 19:3-9). That He suggested was legal but really wrong. tions have faint instead of soft which could be to become compassionate. He didn’t crush a really meant divorce only for sex outside the Including aiding a sister-in-law if she was correct but also the word means mollify or ten- young boy’s fascination with the piano, proba- marriage, a much higher standard (though childless and her husband, the brother, had der. The natural state of man is to be hard- bly visualized himself when younger. The boy even this could be forgiven by the spouse). died, law God set up (25:5-6). Not needed for hearted and self-centered (as Satan) which would remember this occasion as positive (That it is even better not to marry and be a procreation now with overpopulation, though God tries to soften. instead of humiliating for him and mother. She kind of eunuch for the kingdom of God [19:10- she should be cared for by the brother-in-law. God hardened the heart of the Exodus was left off the hook and her effort to interest the 12]. There tends to be a feeling of superiority God has allowed hunting, but also Pharaoh (Ex 4:21), but he had hardened him- son was accomplished in the best possible way. among COGs that those married are in a better allowed many things as Satan to commit per- self by cruel treatment of humans, likely by God as the Master accompanies our feeble position; singles are to be pitied. Paul versions. Is God against hunting though mak- degrees from his childhood. While living this efforts to become like Him. Tells us to be ten- explained more in 1 Cor 7. Those married tend ing law for it (Lev 17:13)? life of testing, we should not harden our hearts derhearted one with another, give the benefit of to care for the things of this world, pleasing There will be no hunting of wild animals in under the hand of correction as the Israelites in the doubt and pardon when asked for forgive- spouse and pay less attention to God.) the Millennium (Isa 65:25). Hunting generally the wilderness (Ps 95:8-11) and thus fail to see ness. Known for our tender mercies and loving So legislation by God for divorce for any is shooting of a standing still beast. Hardly His rest. We are to accept adversity as a means kindness as God is (Ps 25:6). reason was not according to what He fully much skill in that. More skill would be in of teaching us, punishment for correction or —Mr. Jan Young

RECAP OF ARTICLES

Number indicates The Journal issue (find at religious to begin with urging attending church day months exactly. Hezekiah’s Blast was part of makeup is not natural, actually abnormal. www.thejournal.org/morgue.html and click and prayer. Many atheists keep both days. of pole shift, sun setting later (Isa 37:36-38:8). God’s Least Feast Applied to Makeup Connections link). Fireworks displays are costly, dangerous and Resulted in 19-year cycle with added 13th #67—Days of Unleavened Bread lessons of Animal Mistreatment #68—Torture of ani- from war use. Common sense tells us to avoid month in 7 years and Chinese changing 360- humility are opposite of makeup to show off mals in sports as bull riding. No wildness means playing with fire, how much more explosives? degree circle to 365.25 to match days in year. with eye-catching means as bright colors. How no hunting during Millennium; applies to Labor Day is merely May Day moved. Basic problems with observing new cres- makeup exalts the self (and high heels obvi- Christians today. The “fantastic error” of testing Holidays are poor substitutes for Sabbaths and cent moon (varies according to location) and ous!). Jesus said He who exalts himself will be animals for human safety from chemicals back- conflict with them. Many holidays already abib barley (growth differs in areas). Valid rea- abased. Makeup is used in attempt to become fires. Do you support a charity doing research known to be occultic as Halloween. Satan trans- sons for postponements in Jewish calendar. more attractive, but this is sex appeal and lust, that is not cruelty-free? Chickens are kept in forms dark holidays into light to appear good as New Moons should be kept now? Buying a sin. Why women apply it before going out tiered, crowded, wire cages, beaks clipped, Mother’s Day from Mother Goddess worship. meals on Sabbath is against command to rest and not for home and hubby. starved to lose feathers, above their manure and Halloween Practices of British Guy those serving us. Red lipstick and rouge copy flush of face we expect good eggs or meat from them? Fawkes Day in US Election, Independence & GCTS 2 #70: Those who keep holidays and during sex, why used by prostitutes to attract Thanksgiving Days #74—Pagan British birthdays according to pope’s calendar are men by lust. Teen guide: Ban the red lipstick Holiday Idolatry Thanksgiving customs carried over to US. aligned with him. More postponements and and rouge, and half the pregnancies will stop! U.S. Pantheons #66—Israel’s pagan gods British Halloween clone led to ungodly rites of reasons behind them. Pentecost is always 1st Girls advertise they are available for sex with (1 K 12:28) displayed in statues and paintings US Election and Independence Days of fire- day of week as Jubilee after 7 Sabbaths of it, as prostitutes. of US national buildings. Official government works, bonfires and burning all available wood years. When is Pentecost when Passover is on Is Makeup All Right in Moderation? sources even describe them as teaching famous for riotous ‘fun.’ a Sabbath? Pharisees and Sadducees agreed on #73—Media hype makes us think God erred, Americans! Lincoln Memorial copied Parthe- False Worship of Hymns and Holidays a postponement! women have to reshape and color themselves; non, Greek temple to false gods. Jefferson #72—HWA claimed in purple Hymnal we GCTS 3 #71: Reasons why Passover is not ‘run through hoops.’ What exactly is modera- Memorial based on Roman Pantheon. Library should not sing a lie, why Protestant hymns within DUB, 10 times in OT stated as 14th, 10 tion? Many want to hide behind that vague of Congress has Neptune and over 20 were used less and less, though seeming to be times Passover named meal of Christ and disci- term or “non-garish.” If changing lip color is Minervas, his sister. Capitol resembles St. scripturally correct. God is not pleased by ples. Must wine be in the Passover cup? How so all right, surely switching eye color (with con- Peter’s church of Vatican. singing hymns of false worship or changing a many went so far so fast to the Red Sea parting. tacts) is, too. Or changing one’s skin color, say Another nation with half these gods on dis- few of the ‘bad’ words to fit. Onward Christian black to white. World’s sexual obsession play we would call a heathen nation and not Soldiers and Battle Hymn of the Republic Sin of Makeup and fueled by makeup and high heels. keep its holidays. US follows pope calendar advocated war in real battles between brothers, High-heeled Shoes Occupational hazards of makeup found in with names of the gods for each day of week, hardly Christian! Why God Is Against Makeup #66—Can’t beauticians. Makeup chemicals are ingested and why any holiday which falls on one of Key advocate of Mother’s Day for peace in be merely adornment since women are embar- from lips, breathed or passed through skin of these days to false gods is false also. Anything US wrote the latter song urging war. Harvest rassed to go out without it! What sales hype by mother to fetus. What is moderation of make- based on a false foundation is false, too, so hol- Home songs wrong; its pagan practice led to Satan! Can’t put hands on made-up face or up which causes birth defects? By law no idays based on the Gregorian calendar are also Thanksgiving Day in US. Years after Pilgrims must look in mirror, clean and reapply. Early health warnings are necessary! And likely why false. It was set up as an ecclesiastical calendar kept the day, they tried to exterminate their 1900s advertisers blurred distinction between many feel safe in using the products. Or safe for Catholic holy days. Indian benefactors. makeup (paint) and cosmetics (skin aids). by animal testing which doesn’t really apply to Solstice Fire Worship USA Independence Flag Idols 1: Worship of Flags #76: Early Bible view: Jezebel used paint for seduction humans, not the same flesh (1 Cor 15:39). Day #64—Does the US worship the sun in US flags of snake (Satan’s image), All-Seeing- wanting Jehu to ‘pull a Zimri,’ adopt the for- How media distorts women’s view of them- keeping both solstices? Half proved by Eye (sun god Horus), finally 3 crosses of mer king’s wives as his (2 K 9:30-31; 1 K selves as not adequate, needing a fix even cos- Christmas. Here’s the other half about cele- Britain replaced by 5-point stars, same symbol 16:11). Isa 3:16 is against wanton eyes (eye metic surgery. Ads create a problem that is brating fire or fireworks for sun as Midsum- atop Christmas tree. Pagan gods on state flags. makeup used to allure) and mincing steps, only fixed by their product. mer’s Fires of Britain and old solstice date was Freemason flag designs as their apron for affected walk or wanton wiggle (as high heels, Sin of high heels: Beauty contestants with July 4 before US accepted Gregorian calendar. Cuba, 5-point star instead of Eye, as 2 pro- decorative leg chains or tight skirts). Jer 4:30 bikinis, strippers with G-strings, pornography Many nations cited keep solstice for weeks posed archived US flags. Eye and triangle and Eze 23:40 depict adulterous wives enticing with nude women—all wearing high heels to around it anyway. (pyramid) of company logos as AOL, surveil- lovers, perhaps ruining eye lids in process. promote lust. Holidays or Holy Days? Not Both! #65— lance (all-seeing). Still common colorant of red lipstick and Reasons against holidays in general and in par- FI 2: Modern Israel #78: Mostly crosses of rouge is from unclean insect. Those for make- Others Topics ticular. Jewish national days from idolatry: false worship. Canada Maple Leaf for Trinity up rarely at least cite the dangers of it—igno- God Is None (of the false gods) #77—Why Hanukkah and Christmas are variations of as French fleur-de-lis and Irish shamrock. rant or deceitful? History of makeup strewn God is stated as being 1, yet Bible indicates 2. Feast of Lights or Saturnalia (sing same carol Grotesques on Parliaments, Green Man. with the marred or dead bodies of its users, Definitely not 3 at the present. Jesus is God by tunes, spin metal tops with letters, exchange Goddess Britannia for Britain as Liberty for continues even now. Makeup ingredients go definitions of God as Creator of all things. gifts). Purim perpetuates a feud, jester-rabbi US. Dragon flag of Wales, dragons in English through skin like effect of transdermal patches. Born Anew Now #75—Bible does not use copies jester-pope of ‘Christians.’ past and 2 dragon statues at London entrance. Barbie is best selling toy and worst role model ‘born again’ for a resurrection. Many plain So-called secular holidays invoke separation State of Israel uses Nimrod’s hex. Liberia— for girls leading to digestive disorders. Mattel verses refer to babes in Christ now needing of church and state, but as Bible leaves school US clone—switched 5-point star to cross and got rights for the doll from male sex toy, why she milk, later meat; not a fetus (not fed that way)! in comes evolution. While policy aids some back again. is in constant high heel mode. High heels are We are born after the Spirit even now (Gal freedom for Church, it promotes Satan’s ideas. FI 3: Sun Worship #80: This issue. dangerous, tiring and cause foot ailments. 4:22-27, 28-29). Courts rule Christmas and Thanksgiving secu- God’s Calendar in Time and Space 1 #69: If makeup enhances natural beauty, why do Mad Sermon #79—Mad magazine calls lar though Christ and God are supposed to be Calendars tend to reflect changes in the heavens. beauty experts recommend allowing 1 day a New Morality Stupid! Fresh look at 10 Com- honored (making them religious) and both were Year before 800 BC was 360 days with 12 30- week without it for skin to breathe? Coloration mandments.

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL 36 ★ ★ ★ THIS PAGE CONTAINS PAID ADVERTISING ★ ★ ★ Sept. 30, 2003

A Loving Tribute to Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong Weekend of January 16–18, 2004 in Orlando, Florida

We’ll gather to: (1) Remember his passing. (2) Reminisce about his zeal, drive, and accomplishments. (3) Pay tribute to this man of God. (4) Lay to rest all the controversies surrounding his ministry. (5) Inaugurate the next phase of God’s Work: Straightening out the mess the world is in by restoring all things in preparation for Christ’s return as King of Kings. Hosted by Timothy Michael Devine, The real end-time Elijah Just who was Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong in God’s eyes? God works in duality. Mr. Armstrong fulfilled the same role as that of John the Baptist who preceded Jesus. Both men were a “type” of Elijah. John and Mr. Armstrong had similar personalities and similar ministries. Mr. Armstrong prepared the way and made straight the crooked paths enabling the end-time Elijah to emerge. Mr. Armstrong was the pre- decessor of the end-time Elijah. He and the final Elijah fulfill the dual prophetic role as that of John and Jesus. Jesus Christ’s second coming can’t be factored in as this prophetic fulfillment because He won’t be human. It takes two men. Timothy M. Devine 5784 Jack Brace Road Saint Cloud, Florida 34771-9234 Phone (407) 957-0134 PS Local meetings are beginning immediately if you wish the contact. Send for article: “Seven Reasons Why HWA was not Elijah.” $5.00 Book Manuscript: “9/11 Why God Attacked America.” $25.00 (The end-time Elijah is truly a “voice crying in the wilderness.” Incessant, massive persecution during the last 40 years of trials and tests left him isolated and penniless. Silver and gold has he none. He would be living in a cave if there were any mountains in Florida. Therefore, efforts to make contact may be difficult. His mail is always tampered with, sent back undeliverable, and even responded to as if it were from him saying he is “out of business” or some such lie. Phone calls are electronically intercepted, plagued with constant rings, busy signals, or a phony answer- ing machine giving a false message. But keep trying. If all that fails, just come to the above address. To counteract efforts to keep him isolated, he is scheduling regular meetings so that any- body can just drop in.)

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 ★ ★ ★ THIS PAGE CONTAINS PAID ADVERTISING ★ ★ ★ 37 UNIQUE Bible Study Tools now available from BibleStudy.org! The BibleStudy.org Web site continues to experience explosive growth in its efforts to preach the Gospel to the entire world:

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IN VIEW OF ITS POPULARITY, the site is NOW timeless worship songs for church Ted Armstrong, Richard David offering specially created CDs containing services or personal use! CD contains Armstrong, Rod Meredith, Herman many of the most helpful study materials sheet music, in PDF format, to 46 songs Hoeh, Norman Smith and others. and tools visitors return to use again such as Amazing Grace, Blessed Assurance, Set of Four Classic and again! In the Garden, Rock of Ages, Sweet Hour church of God messages of Prayer and more! The latest Adobe The Bible Study Toolbox Listen to four historic messages taken Reader software is included to This CD is an easy-to-use aid for study- from the early years of the church of view/print songs! ing God’s word! It contains books such God on CDs playable on ANY CD as The Two Babylons, Nave’s Topical Bible, BibleStudy.org’s Top 25 player. No computer is needed to listen to Hitchcock’s Bible Names Dictionary and We’ve collected the top 25 most request- these rare CDs! Messages are: Why Are We more! All material on CD is viewable ed articles, audio sermons (in MP3 for- Here? God’s Purpose for Man (Herbert through your existing Web browser, mat), personalized answers to questions, Armstrong, April 6, 1955), What IS the with TWO study materials able to be and sheet music on BibleStudy.org and Gospel? (Garner Ted Armstrong, around reviewed at same time! Bible maps, KJV put them on this special CD! Twenty- 1972), Why Trials? (Richard David Bible, 110+ Biblical articles and other two Biblical maps and complete KJV Armstrong, June 5, 1954) and What Is helps are also included. Bible are also included. The latest Adobe the Kingdom of God? (Rod Meredith, The World Asked . . . The Bible Reader software for viewing PDF files July 25, 1953). Answered! and the popular WINAMP multimedia Each of the six CD offerings above is software is included. This CD contains 100 to-the-point, KJV- available for a donation of just $9.95 linked Biblical answers to questions sub- Back to the church of God Future US. AND, as our thank you for orders mitted by the site’s visitors, 90% of Five hundred hours were spent reclaim- totaling $30 or more, choose either a whom have NO church of God back- ing these never before available church of FREE CD containing Hebrew Holy Day ground! 100+ Biblical articles expanding God messages, which are in MP3 format. Calendar software useful to retrieve cal- on answers are also included. Listen to sermons given in the 1950’s by endar/Holy Day information for ANY Timeless Songs of Worship Herbert Armstrong (including a 1951 year inputted OR a FREE CD of music Possess some of the most beautiful, message given in Pasadena, CA), Garner from the church of God!

Order Form for BibleStudy.org CDs The Bible Study Toolbox CD Qty: Subtotal (Total Qty. from previous column × $9.95): nnn$ The World Asked . . . The Bible Answered! CD Qty. Shipping/handling Timeless Songs of Worship CD Qty. mm(add 10% USA, 20% International of subtotal): nnn$ BibleStudy.org’s Top 25 CD Qty. TOTAL (Subtotal + shipping/handling): nnn$ Back to the church of God Future CD Qty. My Total is above $30 and I want one of the following FREE: Set of Four Classic church of God messages Qty. mm Holy Day Calendar Program mm Music CD llllTotal Qty. Mail to: Name Barnabas Ministries Address PO Box 3393 Farmington Hills, MI 48333, USA City/state/postal code Please make payment in U.S. Funds to Country Barnabas Ministries. Please allow one to two weeks for U.S.A. orders and more for Email address international orders.

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Announcing: Christian Women’s Conference March 12–14, 2004 Reflecting the Light of God

For the third year in a row, the East from all over the United States for a relax- opening our hearts, homes, and resources Texas Women’s Conference, a group of ing but stimulating three intensive days. to our fellow man.” Church of God ladies who live in and The East Texas Women’s Conference Sign up now by filling out and sending in near Big Sandy, will sponsor a conference Mission Statement says it all: “Giving God the coupon below (or use a facsimile). If especially for Christian women. the glory for our lives and for His light in you need more information or registration Plan now to participate in a weekend of us, we work to increase our knowledge of forms, visit ww.BigSandyChurch.org/cwc. God’s Word to guide our actions and to Feel free to call for more information presentations and interactive workshops, be a mirror of truth to those with whom 903-769-2691, 1-800-946-5545 or music, fun, food and fellowship with your we come into contact. Emphasis is given 903-636-5545, OR you can also send an sisters in Christ. to daily walking in wisdom and love, E-mail to [email protected] In years past, participants have traveled laboring for one another in prayer and with any questions.

Yes! I wish to attend Confident Christian Woman III: Reflecting the Light of God

Name Address

City State/Province/Country Zip/Postal code

Phone: E-mail address Please send this registration coupon (or facsimile) and registration fee of US$25 to: East Texas Women’s Conference, P.O. Box 690, Big Sandy, TX 75755, U.S.A. Check Web site frequently for announcements, including housing information (see www.BigSandyChurch.org/cwc). If you are interested in staying with one of our host families, please contact Michele Mischnick at (903) 769-2691 or Shelly Howell at (800) 946-5545 or (903) 636- 5545. If you are interested in performing music selections, please contact Lyna Jane Bryant at [email protected] or (903) 438-8715.

The Faithful Word Is Back! After an interruption of several years, the publishers of The Faithful Word have once again decided to say some of the things that we believe so desperately need to be said. We are resurrecting The Faithful Word to this end. We will begin online, hoping to add a printed version later. The purpose of The Faithful Word remains the same as always: to say what needs to be said without the editorial restraints of churches or other organizations. We answer to God for what we believe, and for what we say. We take this responsibility very seriously. We see gaping, sad, empty holes in what is being taught. We will consider including in this publication any articles from anyone—if they display a love for the truth. Please submit to [email protected]. Tr uth (as we define it) is whatever can be simply and directly proved from the Word of God, and repeatedly produces identical results when applied in this physical world. Our only prayer is that this effort will be of value to you.—Ed and Cindy Burson Just what is an APOSTLE? Today we find the Church of God in a “wilderness of religious confusion!” The confusion is not merely around the Church—within the religions of the world outside—but WITHIN the very heart of The True Church itself! A reminder from Does the voice of God speak through chaos? Is Christ going to return to a harem of hun- dreds of bickering churches? Or is there still just one pure bride—a single spiritual Temple—to whom Christ will return and marry? Church of God Big Sandy This subject was once very clear to us: “God doesn’t use a Babylon of confused, disagreeing reli- gious organizations, divided into hundreds of different concepts of theological doctrine, as His instruments” (Mystery of the Ages page 350). So, how should we conduct ourselves within the present situation? It’s Appointed Unto All Men The subject of this booklet—“What is an Apostle?”—may not at first sight seem linked to the above. But it is. It provides the missing link in understanding the very Government Once to Die—Then the of God—government that must flow from God Himself down to His people for eternity. Judgment (Heb. 9:27)! This booklet therefore presents the subject in that light, as a vital ingredient for unity and singleness of purpose, given to us by God, as a guide to His true people. Ezekiel (37) and the (8th) Day of the F.O.T. Do Not Picture a Request your FREE copy: Send to: Send to: Second Chance for CHURCH OF GOD CHURCH OF GOD Name —in Wales —Faithful Flock Salvation—That Is a Lie!!! See Address PO Box 7 PO Box 8819 how Satan has deceived Whitland Modesto, SA34 0WG CA 95357 many by this deception!! U.K. U.S.A. Post Code/Zip Send for FREE Literature at email: email: [email protected] Country offi[email protected] Truth Publications 5861 Geddes Rd. • Ypsilanti, MI 48198

This page is part of CONNECTIONS: MEMBER TO MEMBER, the advertising section of THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 THE JOURNAL 39 AC diggers of ’60s and ’70s lived a summer of a lifetime Continued from page 7 immersed in that culture. On the trip there were things about Jerusalem he thinking about it.” members Mrs. Mabry. gone the year before, and after talking home we also got to tour Greece includ- enjoyed even more that the dig. Mr. Havir says two basic types of “The boys lived on the second floor, to him I was interested in the chance to ing Corinth and a little bit of Asia.” “The relationships were more im- work were carried out at the dig. and we girls had the third floor where we After returning to Bricket Wood, the portant to me than the archaeology,” he slept in bunk beds. We did our own cook- travel. I wanted to see Jerusalem and the Grunt workers surrounding area.” group made one last side trip before said. “I have wonderful memories of ex- ing. We had crews for breakfast and din- The students from Big Sandy traveled coming home. periences with Karon Martz, Glenda “Some of the students were digging ner duty. For lunch we were on our own.” to New York City, from where they flew “We went on a whirlwind tour of Osborne [now sister-in-law of Mr. Bjora- for pottery and other fine items, and Mrs. Mabry remembers the routine: to London and then met up with students Europe after the dig. After spending the ker], Judy Jackman, Gary Lock, Chuck they had to be very careful,” he said. “We would start digging at 7 in the from Pasadena at the Ambassador cam- weekend at Bricket Wood, we traveled Gehringer, Patty Fields and others. “Others did the grunt work. We tried morning and work until 1 in the after- pus at Bricket Wood. After a weekend through seven countries in five days. “We made friends with some of the to see how much dirt we could move. noon. We dug at assigned holes and lift- stay in England the would-be archaeolo- During our tour of London we got to see Arab employees at the hotel. One was We spent a lot of time busting rocks. We ed 20-pound buckets of dirt over our gists were off to the Middle East. the crown jewels of England. That was named Charlie. He spoke pretty good liked that better than the pottery stuff. heads all day.” “It was my first experience with ar- a most spectacular thing.” English but with a heavy accent. “Ken, Clyde and I worked in a cou- When this writer asked Mrs. Mabry “Clyde Kilough and I would stay up ple of tunnels, and we got under the if she found anything of interest, she chaeology,” Mr. Treybig said. “They Painful cut had it all laid out in grids. They told us late to talk to him.” Temple Mount. As soon as the dig su- responded: “We literally moved wheel- where to dig. We had to sift everything.” Dave Havir, who entered Ambassa- Mr. Kilough and Mr. Havir visited pervisors found out where we were, barrows full of dirt. One day we did find Mr. Treybig soon found an “inscrip- dor at Big Sandy as a 17-year-old from Charlie at his residence in Jerusalem they pulled us out of there.” a Byzantine lamp. Except for that, there tion,” he said. “It looked like part of a Allentown, Pa., and now lives in Big more than once. When THE JOURNAL asked Mr. Havir was nothing exciting.” parapet. It said something about blow- Sandy with his wife, Pam, also dug in “He was 38 and had nine children,” about the benefits of the dig, he Some excitement was generated away ing a trumpet. We only found a small Jerusalem in 1972. said Mr. Havir. “The children got a big responded: from the dig, Mrs. Mabry remembers. piece, but I understand that later other Mr. Havir, a staff member of and kick out of our tape recorder.” “On the college level it was an oppor- “There was a bombing that year,” she columnist for THE JOURNAL, is pastor of tunity for Ambassador to let its light said. “A relative of the family we were pieces were found and it is now in a ‘Tonight I will kill him’ museum in Paris.” the Church of God Big Sandy. shine,” he said. “The Ambassador stu- staying with was injured by the bomb. Digging in another hole, Mr. Treybig He explained to this writer his first Mr. Havir described a practical joke he, dents had a good reputation as hard work- “The house we were in had a flat and fellow AC students found a tunnel roof, and we were able to watch as the they quickly determined followed a family sacrificed a goat. That was after route under the Temple Mount. Mr. Treybig remembers the summer of ’72 as the they knew the injured person was going “They shut that down quick,” he said. to survive. They offered the goat, roast- ‘most educational’ summer of his life. ‘I got to travel ed it and had a big dinner. We watched Like a chain gang the whole thing.” THE JOURNAL asked Mr. Treybig overseas and be immersed in that culture.’ Shutting down about the student housing and the post- war atmosphere while he was at the dig. Archaeological digs are a continuing “We stayed at the King David Hotel, impression of Israel. Mr. Kilough and fellow Big Sandy student ers. Other groups who participated on the fact of life in Israel, but Ambassador Col- which was in what had been the Arab sec- “We landed at the airport in Tel Aviv Dave Robinson played on Charlie. dig did not have as good a reputation. lege and the Worldwide Church of God tor,” he said. “There was a bit of tension and saw the spot where a number of “We staged this scene where Dave “On a personal level it expanded my discontinued their involvement in 1976. still. The people we were around were all people were gunned down just a few came into the hotel yelling at me and horizons. It was the trip of a lifetime, Mr. Dick and his wife returned to the friendly. We didn’t have any problems. days before we arrived,” he remembers. acting like he was upset and ready to hit and it helped me focus on what I want- site in 1982 and visited with Professor “We did see signs of the war like Mr. Havir reminisced about a typical me,” Mr. Havir said. “Clyde stepped ed to do in life.” Mazar’s assistant, Meir Ben-Dov. burned-out tanks. It was very different day on the dig. between us and held Dave back. After When asked what the greatest lesson “Meir and his secretary were still than what we were used to, being in an “We would dig in the mornings, and Dave left, Charlie came to me and qui- he learned on his summer overseas, the there working on the dig records,” he area where soldiers walked around with in the afternoon Dr. Martin would teach etly said to me, ‘Tonight when he is Big Sandy pastor said: “God is the God said. “After a very warm greeting, Meir machine guns.” a class at the hotel.” sleeping I will kill him.’ of all people, and we all need His pointed to the dig and made this state- Mr. Treybig talked about the digging Mr. Havir talked about field trips. “I said, ‘No, no, it was a joke.’ Kingdom.” ment: ‘What you see there was only pos- routine. “We dug five days a week. It “We got to see Galilee and other his- “Charlie may have been kidding, but sible because of the financial support of was a grueling job. It would get hot, torical sites. I remember Dr. Martin it sure didn’t seem like it.” Not for men only Mr. Herbert Armstrong and the labor of between 105 and 110 degrees, and it opening his Bible to 1 Samuel and Mr. Havir would somehow secure Kimberly Mabry (then Kimberly the students of Ambassador College.’ ” was dry. We got up early to get out teaching us about a certain battle. We dinner invitations to various Jerusalem- McCullough) decided to go to the dig in Meir Ben-Dov, who was the active before the heat of the day. were standing there looking out at ites’ residences. 1975 as a 21-year-old. Miss McCul- supervisor of the dig site, is the author of “There was free time after work, but where the armies would have been. “We never discussed unclean meats lough had entered Ambassador at Big the book In the Shadow of the Temple: they got a lot of work out of us. I “We went to the Dead Sea and swam with our hosts,” he said, “but it was Sandy in 1972. The Discovery of Ancient Jerusalem, learned what it would be like on a chain in the salt water. We had cuts on our legs never a problem. We were served chick- “I think 24 of us went that year,” she Keter Publishing House, Jerusalem. gang. We smashed a lot of rocks with from smashing rocks with sledge ham- en or fish.” told THE JOURNAL. “I believe there were “There was no plan for Ambassador sledge hammers.” mers. The salt made those cuts sting.” Another memory of Mr. Havir’s 12 boys and 12 girls. We stayed in the to become involved with archaeology,” Mr. Treybig remembers the summer Mr. Havir, who enjoyed the dig with involved Big Sandy coed Judy Jackman. Arab section of Jerusalem in the home said Mr. Dick, “but for a few years of ’72 as the “most educational” sum- two of his fellow classmates and “Judy was a blonde. One man of- of a well-to-do family.” some church and college employees mer of his life. friends, Mr. Treybig and Clyde Ki- fered Thad Russell 75 camels for her. An Arab family lived on the first and hundreds of students enjoyed the “I got to travel overseas and be lough, now of Sacramento, Calif., says We would tell her that we were still floor of their temporary residence, re- summer of a lifetime.” How does the king of the North decide who to invade? Continued from page 9 presumably that’s where the attack ing Israel and determined to cut it off. so they’ll learn their lesson and finally this is talking about a region of mod- ships; and he shall enter the countries, came from. Psalm 83:1-8: realize that You alone are the one true ern-day Jordan. overwhelm them, and pass through.” As the United States invaded Af- “Do not keep silent, O God! Do not God.” Damascus and Syria (17:1-3): That will be the model for Western ghanistan because that was the center of hold Your peace, and do not be still, O I find that interesting because all of These names haven’t changed over all countries’ warfare tactics in the Middle power for al-Qaida, this power seems to God! For behold, Your enemies make a these areas are absolutely convinced these years. East for the foreseeable future. The invade these areas because that’s where tumult; and those who hate You have that Allah is the one true God, and it will Israel (17:4-11). Europeans no doubt also learned that, if the threat seems greatest. lifted up their head. They have taken take something drastic to shake them “The multitude of many people” they want to be taken seriously in the Of course, to do anything militarily crafty counsel against Your people, and out of that belief. (17:12-14): God destroys them. world, they’ll have to have some mili- in this area you must have access to the consulted together against Your shel- Long prophecy Ethiopia and beyond (chapter 18). tary power to back up their bravado. Suez Canal, in Egypt. tered ones. Egypt (chapter 19): This also in- It will take some time for them to Verses 44-45: “But news from the “They have said, ‘Come, and let us Another long, long prophecy is to be cludes clear end-time markers: that the build up their military, no question east and the north shall trouble him; cut them off from being a nation, that found in Isaiah 13-24. This section con- Messiah will deliver Egyptians and they about it. This won’t happen next week therefore he shall go out with great fury the name of Israel may be remembered tains a list of prophetic “burdens” will repent, and Egypt, Assyria and or next month or next year, but it will to destroy and annihilate many. no more.’ For they have consulted to- against various peoples, nations and Israel will be allies. happen. Watch for Europe to start a mil- “And he shall plant the tents of his gether with one consent; they form a kingdoms. Egypt and Ethiopia again (chap- itary buildup, and when that happens palace between the seas and the glori- confederacy against You: These 12 chapters seem to weave in ter 20). watch out. ous holy mountain; yet he shall come to “The tents of Edom [including and out between events of Isaiah’s day Babylon again (21:1-10). his end, and no one will help him.” Palestinians and some of the Turks] and and those of the end time and are imme- Entering the land Edom (21:11-12): Again, this ap- So it appears that this stirs up a hor- the Ishmaelites [Arabs in general]; diately followed by several chapters pears to refer to many of today’s Pales- “He shall also enter the Glorious tinians and Turkey. Land [the Holy Land, today’s Israel], Arabia (21:13-17): This would be and many countries shall be over- Some fascinating prophecies mention Islamic regions and the area of what is today called Saudi thrown; but these shall escape from his Arabia. hand: Edom, Moab, and the prominent nations in an end-time context. Though there doesn’t seem Jerusalem (22:1-14). people of Ammon [these are the people Tyre and Sidon (chapter 23): of modern-day Jordan, so this ruler to be a direct connection, we read some intriguing hints. These were both city-states in what is invades Israel but stops, apparently at today southern Lebanon. the Jordan River]” (Daniel 11:41). net’s nest among other nations to the Moab [central Jordan] and the Hagrites that appear to describe the immediate Judgment against the entire earth Verses 42-43: “He shall stretch out east and north of this region, and this [apparently the descendants of Hagar, aftermath of Christ’s return. Notice who (chapter 24): This appears to apply to his hand against the countries, and the leads to other events described in the mother of Ishmael]; Gebal [equated these “burdens” are set against: the end time. land of Egypt shall not escape. He shall book of Revelation including, ultimate- with the Phoenician city of Byblos, Babylon (chapter 13 and 14:22- Waiting to explode have power over the treasures of gold ly, Jesus’ return to prevent the annihila- modern Jubayl in Lebanon], Ammon 23): This includes a time setting of the and silver, and over all the precious tion of humanity. [the environs of Amman, Jordan], and Day of the LORD (verses 6, 9) marked That all are mentioned in the same things of Egypt; also the Libyans and Do other prophecies tie in with these Amalek [a branch of Edomite Pales- by heavenly signs (verses 10, 13). overall context one after another Ethiopians shall follow at his heels.” events or with Islamic regions in gen- tinians]; Philistia [the Gaza Strip] with We understand this “Babylon” to be appears to indicate that all are involved So Egypt and Libya to the west of eral in the end time? the inhabitants of Tyre [southern Leba- an end-time system rather than the liter- at some level in end-time events. These prophecies are nowhere as Egypt and Ethiopia to the south of Some fascinating prophecies men- non along the coast]; Assyria [ethnical- al city of Babylon, because the literal Egypt are also dominated by this end- tion Islamic regions and nations in an ly we believe this to be Germany; geo- specific as the predictions of Daniel 11, time power. This would also include end-time context. Though there doesn’t graphically it was northern Iraq] also city does not exist at this time. but it is intriguing to see how this region Sudan, which is between Egypt and seem to be a direct connection, we read has joined with them; they have helped Assyria (14:24-27). of the world dominates the headlines Ethiopia and anciently was part of those some intriguing hints. One of these is the children of Lot [Moab and Ammon, Philistia (14:28-32): Philistia to- and how the whole Middle East is like a two powers. in Psalm 83, a prophetic hymn written modern-day Jordan].” day is the area primarily occupied by powder keg waiting to explode. Why does the king of the North by Asaph. It describes an end-time In the rest of this psalm, Asaph in the Gaza Strip. As we can see from these prophecies, invade these specific areas? Because alliance of Muslim nations surround- effect says to God, “Wipe them all out Moab (chapters 15-16): Again, eventually it will explode. 40 THE JOURNAL Sept. 30, 2003 Back issues of The Journal Notes and quotes available as singles or as a set Prayers for Mr. McNair and young adults who are SAN DIEGO, Calif.—Raymond Church of God members. IG SANDY, Texas—THE To order one back issue, send $2 and Eve McNair have reportedly The camp, sponsored by the Church of God Kansas City, will JOURNAL is running a special ($1 in U.S. funds for the paper, $1 requested prayers on behalf of sale of back issues of this for postage and handling) to P.O. Mr. McNair, who has been diag- begin at noon Sunday, Dec. 28, B and run through Wednesday, newspaper. Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755, nosed with a tumor on his spine. Mr. McNair was an evangelist for Dec. 31, at the Salvation Army Regularly $2 each, back issues U.S.A. Camp and Conference Center in are available for a limited time for Mrs. Cartwright said that, for or- many years in the Worldwide Church of God and an early Kansas City. The cost will be $30 $1, announced circulation manager ders of two issues or more, postage per person. and copublisher Linda Cartwright. and handling are included at no graduate of Ambassador College. For more information contact An even better deal, said Mrs. extra charge. Mrs. Frazee at (816) 461-3252, Cartwright, is the entire collection Specify the issue or issues desired Commandments on [email protected] or 3201 N. of 79 back issues of THE JOURNAL, by date (for example, February the march Union, Independence, Mo. which began in February 1997. 1997) or issue number (No. 1). 64050, U.S.A. The application LITTLE ROCK, Ark.—Alfred deadline is Dec. 10. A complete set is available for To see an index of all the back Harrell’s Christian Leadership $60 plus $10 postage and handling. issues, visit www.thejournal.org. Academy is organizing rallies to Global ad campaign support the Ten Command- SAN DIEGO, Calif.—Warren ments, announced Theda Zehrung of the Church of the Horton. The first is planned for Eternal God announces that the Little Rock in October, then other Global Church of God in the cities including Richmond, Va., United Kingdom, affiliated with Subscribe to or renew and finally Washington, D.C. the CEG in the United States, For more information see has received 1,200 responses to www.CL-academy.org. an ad campaign to distribute the Baptists for the Feast booklets God’s Commanded Holy Days and Don’t Keep AUCKLAND, New Zealand— Christmas. The Auckland Baptist Taber- For more church-related infor- The Journal nacle plans to observe the mation see www.eternalgod.org. Feast of Tabernacles this year with a “special service,” reports The faithful word To subscribe, send a gift subscription or renew for Gavin Rumney of Auckland on BIG SANDY, Texas—Ed and his Web site, www. Cindy Burson are resurrecting missingdimension.com. the newsletter they produced in yourself or a friend, simply send a check or money “How come it’s okay for the ’80s, The Faithful Word. This Auckland’s most prominent time they will publish online, at order along with the coupon below (or provide the Baptist church . . . to celebrate www.thefaithfulword.com. the Feast of Tabernacles with a “There are many great, special service, and yet it’s not gaping, sad, empty holes in information on a plain sheet of paper). okay for Worldwide Church of what is being taught” in the God members to as much as churches, said Mr. Burson. use that term to describe the “We see a dire need in the Be sure to check your mailing label for the number events organized around this Church of God today.” time of year?” wondered Mr. Write the Bursons at ed@ of issues remaining in your subscription. If you Rumney. thefaithfulword.com. Creation cornered Mr. Armstrong’s 111th have only one or two or “zero” issues remaining, we INDIANAPOLIS, Ind.—C. CAPE TOWN, South Africa— Frazier Spencer, who has com- July 31 was the 111th anniver- piled a book promoting creation- sary of the birth of Herbert W. suggest mailing in your renewal now so you don’t miss ism (as opposed to evolution), Armstrong, announced Geoffrey reports he has a new E-mail Neilson. address: fraziernow@ For a continuing commemora- any issues. wmconnect.com. Or contact him tion of Mr. Armstrong’s birthday, at (317) 859-0391 or 7534 Mr. Neilson noted the availability Inverness Dr., Indianapolis, Ind. of free DVDs and CDs contain- Please include your mailing label or a photocopy of it, 46237, U.S.A. For more informa- ing audio and video material tion about his book, Creation from Mr. Armstrong’s ministry. Corner, see “Notes in Quotes” in “They are ideal for showing at or hand-copy the information from the label. THE JOURNAL of Aug. 31. the Feast, as reminders of the Final prophecy worldwide work which Mr. Armstrong and the church era Contact THE JOURNAL for subscriptions and renewals DAYTON, Ohio—“If you desire that supported him did,” said Mr. to know what will transpire in the Neilson. near future concerning prophecy, For more information write at Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A., or then meticulously read the little COG CDs, Box 442, Wadsworth, book of Revelation 10,” advises Ohio 44281, U.S.A., or E-mail at the distributors’ addresses on page 2. See also THE Kenneth Plummer. [email protected]. For more about the “secret thunderous message” of Beyond the book of Acts JOURNAL’s Web Revelation 10, which Mr. Plum- PALM BAY, Fla.—A new book, Mail to: THE JOURNAL, Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755, U.S.A. mer also describes as “a riddle Beyond Acts: New Perspectives Subscribe to THE JOURNAL:NEWS OF THE CHURCHES OF GOD and keep up with your wrapped in a mystery,” see his in New Testament History, by family and friends in all the groups! site, at www. Web site, www.finalprophecy. Paul R. Finch, is available at com. Or write Mr. Plummer at Trafford Publishing. Beyond Acts Name thejournal.org. 5338 Pollard Way, Dayton, Ohio is a serious study of New 45424, U.S.A. Testament history that “will open Address Teens and young adults our understanding of New to retreat Testament history as never City/state/zip or postal code/country For information before,” said a press release. New subscription Renewal Start with back issue dated ______/______KANSAS CITY, Mo.— Mr. Finch dedicates the book to (specify any month and year from February 1997 to present). Individual back issues are about ordering Organizer Paula Frazee the memory of Ernest Martin, $1 each, with 2-issue minimum order. (No minimum if ordered with new sub.) announces this year’s Teen and the founder of Associates for In U.S.: $39 for 24 mo. issues $22 for 12 issues $12 for 6 issues. Non- Young Adult Retreat for the Scriptural Knowledge, Portland, U.S. mailed from Big Sandy: $43 for 24 mo. issues $24 for 12 issues back issues of Kansas City area. The camp is Ore. $14 for 6. For distributors in other countries, see box on page 2. Please remit meant to provide fellowship and For more ordering information in U.S. funds drawn, if possible, on a U.S. bank. THE JOURNAL, the chance to meet other teens see www.trafford.com/robots/ Give THE JOURNAL: NEWS OF THE CHURCHES OF GOD see the article Send gift subscription to at the top of TheJournal Time-sensitive Address News of the Churches of God P. O. Box 1020, Big Sandy, Texas 75755 material City/state/zip or postal code/country this page. New subscription Renewal Start with back issue dated ______/______(specify any month and year from February 1997 to present). Individual back issues are $1 each, with 2-issue minimum order. (No minimum if ordered with new sub.) Thanks for In U.S.: $39 for 24 mo. issues $22 for 12 issues $12 for 6 issues. Non- U.S. mailed from Big Sandy: $43 for 24 mo. issues $24 for 12 issues $14 for 6. For distributors in other countries, see box on page 2. Please remit reading THE in U.S. funds drawn, if possible, on a U.S. bank. Use a copy of this coupon or plain paper to order from THE JOURNAL or any of JOURNAL! our distributors. 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Sept. 30, 2003 Please rush!