A Vital “Key” to Spiritual Growth

A personal message from the Editor in Chief, Roderick C. Meredith

In our hurried, mixed up, distracted lives, we often mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him? fail to find time—or to take time—to think about what For You have made him a little lower than the angels, is really important. and You have crowned him with glory and honor” Sometimes, at the funeral of a dear friend or loved (Psalm 8:3–5). one, we may pause to realize how quickly the “hustle David took time to meditate and to think on what and bustle” of our daily lives could end. We may quiet- was truly important. He often did this outdoors, in the ly think and meditate on the real issues of life: Why are midst of God’s marvelous creation, looking up at the we here? What is the real purpose of our lives? How moon and stars. He did not have a radio or television should we fulfill that great purpose? blatting away in the background, or a phone ringing, Most of us realize that we need to be more sure of or other distractions while he was spending time seek- our relationship with our Creator, and truly draw close ing God. to Him. Most people feel in a general way that they When David was hiding out in the wilderness of would like to fulfill His will. So they think about it Judea, as King Saul was trying to destroy him, David briefly… until the phone rings, or it is time for their literally cried out to God: “O God, You are my God; favorite television show, or… So, once again, they early will I seek You; my soul thirsts for You; my flesh delay their opportunity to draw closer to God. longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is Let me share with you a very important “key” that no water. So I have looked for You in the sanctuary, to has helped me during my 54 years in Christ’s ministry. see Your power and Your glory. Because Your lov- I have experienced many trials and “ups and downs” in ingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. my life. I have been terribly disappointed in years past Thus I will bless You while I live; I will lift up my at the actions of some of my own teenagers and other hands in Your name. My soul shall be satisfied as with young people as well. I have been hurt by the slights or marrow and fatness, and my mouth shall praise You indiscretions of others whom I loved. My first wife of with joyful lips. When I remember You on my bed, I more than 20 years died in my arms, from cancer. I meditate on You in the night watches. Because You have seen dozens of friends and loved ones turn away have been my help, therefore in the shadow of Your from the Truth of God. So there have been plenty of wings I will rejoice. My soul follows close behind You; “reasons” to become discouraged. Your right hand upholds me” (Psalm 63:1–8). However, one practice has always helped me to This beautiful passage tells us a lot about David’s “bounce back.” In fact, it was that very practice that approach to God. He would continually “seek” God in helped me to become genuinely acquainted with God almost every conceivable situation. God was the very in the first place. center of David’s life, the One whom David genuinely That vital “key” is the regular practice of setting worshiped and adored and with whom he “fellow- aside time and energy to truly seek God. shipped.” God was truly the center of David’s life! We How? truly are made in God’s image, and—just as David Although King David of ancient Israel experienced did—He wants us to learn to walk with Him, talk with literally hundreds of trials and tests—and profound sor- Him and fellowship with Him (1 John 1:3). row—he always “bounced back.” In spite of his human But, remember! To draw truly close to our weaknesses, he became “a man after God’s own heart” Creator, we must worship Him the way He tells us! (Acts 13:22). Scripture gives us a little glimpse of how Jesus Christ instructed us, “God is Spirit, and David related with God: “When I consider Your heav- those who worship Him must worship in spirit and ens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are (Continued on page 30)

How Your Subscription Has Been Paid Tomorrow’s World has no subscription price. It is made possible by the tithes and offerings of Living Church of God members, and by others whoTomorrow’s have chosen World to becomehas no coworkers subscription in proclaiming price. It is Christ’s made truepossible gospel by to the all nations.tithes and Donations offerings are of gratefully Living Church acknowledged, of God members,and may be tax-deductible.and by othersAll scripturwhoe rhaveeferences chosen are from the to New become King James Versionco-workers©Thomas Nelson,in pr Inc.,oclaiming Publishers) unless Christ’s otherwise true noted. gospel to all nations. Donations are grateful- ly acknowledged, and may be tax-deductible. Contents Volume 9, Issue 3 • May–June 2007 Cover 22 The Future of Jerusalem Disputes over Jerusalem are constantly in the news. Arabs and Israelis are fighting over its future, but God has an amazing plan for this long-troubled city. Will Jerusalem ever see peace? The answer may surprise you!

Features 4 YOU Need Salvation! Millions do not understand their need for salvation. Sadly, many who believe they are “saved” are not even Christian! Are you learning the truth about salvation—and acting on it? You need to be sure! 10 Religion Under Fire! Is belief in God “delusional”? A vocal number of militant atheists say so. Yet around the world, religion continues to grow in popularity. Why is this happening—and what does it mean for Bible prophecy? 16 Fatherless Families? Many children today grow up without a father in the home. What does it mean to have a father? What does it mean to be a father? The Bible shows how God the Father is the author and example of successful fatherhood. 28 The Tomb of Jesus? Archaeologists recently announced an amazing discovery—a tomb which, they say, contained the bones of Jesus and several members of His family. What does this “discovery” actually reveal? Departments 9 Questions & Answers 26 Watch and Warn 14 Prophecy Comes Alive 31 TV/Radio Log 21 Letters to the Editor

Tomorrow’s World ® is published bimonthly by the Living Church of GodTM, 2301 Crown Centre Drive, Charlotte, NC 28227. ©2007 EDITOR IN CHIEF Roderick C. Meredith Living Church of God. Printed in the U.S.A. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is DITORIAL IRECTOR Richard F. Ames prohibited. Canada subscriptions: Canada Post Agreement Number 40034253. Send change of address information and blocks E D of undeliverable copies to P.O. Box 409, Mississauga, ON L5M 2B9. Postage paid at Charlotte, NC and at additional mailing offices. EXECUTIVE EDITOR William Bowmer Postmaster: Send address changes to Tomorrow’s World, P.O. Box 3810, Charlotte, NC 28227-8010. REGIONAL EDITORS Rod King (Philippines),

Tomorrow’s World is protected through trademark registration in the United States, and by international treaties. Trademark Bruce Tyler (Australasia), Gerald Weston (Canada), registration pending in other countries. The symbol ®, appearing herein, does not indicate trademark registration in countries where Douglas S. Winnail (Europe) it is not yet registered or protected by treaty. ART DIRECTOR Donna Prejean All scripture references are from the New King James Version (©Thomas Nelson, Inc., Publishers) unless otherwise noted. PROOFREADERS Sandy Davis, Linda Ehman,

PHOTO CREDITS: ©CORBIS, ©ISTOCKPHOTOS, ©LIQUIDLIBRARY, ©2007 NEWSCOM, ©PHOTOS, ©PHOTOSPIN, June Olsen ©TOMORROW’S WORLD NEWS BUREAU Don Davis BUSINESS MANAGER J. Davy Crockett, III By Roderick C. Meredith

Are you under God’s protection? Does God consider you a “Christian”? Read this article to be sure!

his world is teetering on the increased interest in religion in the edge of oblivion. Thoughtful United States. Multitudes are thinking men everywhere are beginning more and more about making peace T to fear. We are living in the with somebody, preferably God. shadow of violent death. It could come But are people really “making peace” any day or night. It could come at any with God—being truly converted, being moment. It could be unleashed by the changed, and coming under His divine tiniest political spark in a far-distant protection? land. Earlier this year, the Bulletin of The true Creator God says most reli- Atomic Scientists moved the famous gious people are being deceived! Your “Doomsday Clock” forward two minutes, Bible describes our very end times as a to just five minutes to midnight! period when Satan the Devil “deceives People know we are living in dan- the whole world.” gerous times, and many are restless. Jesus described our day when He Many are thinking more seriously than said: “For many shall come in My name, ever before about many things—not the saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive least of which is the hereafter. many” (Matthew 24:5, KJV). Yes, the many preachers who claim to be Christ’s Increased Religious Interest ministers, who proclaim that He is Christ, but preach their own humanly devised This era of violence and potential message about Jesus’ person, are deceiving world suicide has helped stimulate an millions and millions of people! 4 TWM wwww.tomorrowsworld.orgww.tomorrowsworld.org

Yet, in order to be regarded by ful Creator God. You must know It is to be obeyed! For Jesus God as a true Christian—in order that the Bible is His inspired reve- also said, “Why do you call Me to be under His protection in these lation of the real purpose of life, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things perilous times, in order to be led and of the spiritual laws of happi- which I say?” (Luke 6:46). by His Spirit—you must believe ness and success. You must prove Jesus came to “reveal” the and obey the very message Jesus and know that the Bible carries Father (Matthew 10:27). Above all Christ brought to this earth from authority—that its words are else, He revealed God as the God the Father. For Jesus com- backed up by the power of the liv- Supreme Ruler of the universe. He manded, “The time is fulfilled, ing God who gives you every taught that human beings are not and the kingdom of God is at breath of air you breathe. to follow their own ideas and tra- hand. Repent, and believe in the You may already understand ditions, but should “live… by gospel” (Mark 1:15). this. But please be sure you have every word of God” (Luke 4:4). In this age, above every other, proven it so completely that you “Search the scriptures,” Jesus said. you desperately need God—His would fear to disobey what God In the “model prayer,” Christ guidance, His blessing and His commands. You must regard taught His disciples to pray, “Your protection! There is no use in “kid- God’s word as the authority over kingdom come. Your will be done ding” yourself about this fact. This your very life. Christ said: “He on earth as it is in heaven” (Luke is your life—how will you use it? who rejects Me, and does not 11:2). receive My words, has that which Christ continually taught obe- What You Should Do judges him—the word that I have dience to the law and will of God. spoken will judge him in the last When a young man asked Him the You need to face the fact that day” (John 12:48). Once you way to eternal life, Jesus answered: you are very likely one of the mul- have fully proved these basic “If you want to enter into life, keep titude going the broad way that principles to yourself, you need the commandments” (Matthew leads to destruction (Luke 13:24)! to keep studying to understand 19:17). So, to be a true Christian, If you are following the crowd—if and obey the true message of you must yield yourself to obey you have the same general attitude Almighty God contained in the God’s will, keep the Ten toward religion that most people Bible. Commandments, and surrender do—then without doubt you are your will so completely to your deceived! For remember that Satan Christ’s Message Maker that you will sincerely strive the Devil “deceives the whole to “live by every word of God.” world” (Revelation 12:9). Jesus Christ gave us the per- The New Testament reveals Thankfully, some of you are fectly clear revelation of God’s that God is now forming, within different. Many thousands of you plan and purpose. To be a the people He calls holy, His right- You must prove and know that the Bible carries authority—that its words are backed up by the power of the living God who gives you every breath of air you breathe. realize that through the Tomorrow’s “Christian” simply means to eous and perfect spiritual character World telecast and the pages of believe in and obey what Jesus as a prerequisite to the precious this magazine, you are receiving Christ taught—to accept and sub- gift of eternal life in His kingdom. the very message that Jesus Christ mit to the message He brought The basis of that perfect character brought to save this world from from God the Father. is absolute yieldedness to obey itself. If you are to come under the Jesus stated: “For I have not God’s perfect spiritual law— blessing and protection of God, spoken on My own authority; but revealed by the Ten you need to be sure of that mes- the Father who sent Me gave Me a Commandments and spiritually sage—then act on it and obey it. command, what I should say and magnified in the New Testament. You need to prove to yourself, what I should speak” (John This requires completely surren- once and for all, that there is a 12:49). So Christ’s message comes dering your personal will to God. personal, living, active, all-power- directly from God the Father. This means a complete change in May–June 2007 5 attitude, belief and way of life. The giveness of our sins through You Must Believe Apostle Paul was inspired to write: Christ’s shed blood, we are then the True Gospel “And do not be conformed to this promised the “gift” of God’s Holy world, but be transformed by the Spirit—His very nature and Jesus Christ and His apostles renewing of your mind, that you character implanted within us. always preached the gospel of the may prove what is that good and This alone gives us the strength kingdom or world-ruling govern- acceptable and perfect will of God” to “overcome” ourselves and ment of God. We read: “Now after (Romans 12:2). truly obey God. For it is “Christ John was put in prison, Jesus Remember, human will and in us” who is obeying God’s per- came to Galilee, preaching the strength cannot bring about this fect, spiritual law—just as He gospel of the kingdom of God, and change. The spiritual love and did in the human flesh (John saying, ‘The time is fulfilled and power must come as a gift from 15:10). the kingdom of God is at hand, God. repent, and believe in the gospel’” God’s Help Is Required (Mark 1:14–15). Again, notice Most of us have known peo- that the two things ple who made “resolutions” to Jesus commanded live a better life—alcoholics who were repentance and decided to “give up the bottle,” belief in His mes- or criminals who “reformed” by sage. some means or other. Few of Regarding belief, these changes are either perma- Jesus taught that nent or satisfactory. Even when belief in the true a change in one area of life gospel He preached, seems to have become perma- and obedience to the nent, we can see that the per- laws of God, are son’s entire life, attitude, and After real conversion, you inseparable. He said: “The law and actions are not totally yielded to begin to study the Bible, meditate the prophets were until John. the complete and perfect will of on God’s law, and pray and talk Since that time the kingdom of the Creator. to God continually. You truly God has been preached, and Human beings cut off from seek God always (see my everyone is pressing into it. And it the true God can “reform” them- Personal on page 2 of this selves to a limited extent. But issue)! By this process, and You must do what God says. You must repent and be baptized, or you will never receive God’s Holy Spirit. they can never bring about the through His Spirit, you come to process we call “conversion.” For have the very thoughts and nature is easier for heaven and earth to true conversion is a total change of God within you. For Christ is pass away than for one tittle of the which God brings about in one’s living within you through the law to fail” (Luke 16:16–17). very mind and nature. The Apostle Holy Spirit! Here we see that the law and Paul proclaimed, “I am crucified Your whole life is completely the prophets—the Old Testament with Christ: nevertheless I live; changed—converted—and you scriptures—were God’s only reve- yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: grow in grace and knowledge day lation to mankind before John the and the life which I now live in by day. In spiritual attitude and Baptist’s ministry. But through the flesh I live by the faith of the character, you become more like Christ, the spiritual message of Son of God, who loved me, and gave Christ in every phase of life. A total salvation, and the magnification of himself for me” (Galatians 2:20, change takes place within you that God’s laws in their spiritual intent KJV). could never occur except as a and purpose, was revealed. That, my friends, is the supernatural act of the Almighty Notice also how Jesus con- “key.” Through genuine repen- God. nected obedience to God’s laws tance from sin, then total surren- However, God makes this with the New Testament gospel of der to God through Jesus Christ supernatural help available under the kingdom. Furthermore, as if to and humble faith in God’s for- certain very important conditions. squelch any doubt that He was

6 TWM www.tomorrowsworld.org

referring to God’s spiritual law tism is the next essential step you never have been, and never will revealed in the Ten must take to be truly converted be—unless you are finally willing Commandments, He specified the and receive God’s Holy Spirit. In to surrender your life to God the transgression of one of those very fact, it is a test of your real repen- Father, and accept Jesus Christ not laws to which He was referring: tance and willingness to obey God. only as your Savior, but as your “Whoever divorces his wife and Jesus Christ commanded the High Priest, your coming King, marries another commits adultery; apostles: “Go into all the world your ruler, whom you will obey and whoever marries her who is and preach the gospel to every throughout all eternity! divorced from her husband com- creature. He who believes and is God’s Spirit is the very nature mits adultery” (Luke 16:18). baptized will be saved; but he and life of God through which we Throughout the book of Acts, who does not believe will be con- become His begotten children. His we find the inspired servants of demned” (Mark 16: 15–16). Spirit will help us grow to maturi- Christ continuing to preach the Jesus meant exactly what He ty in Christian character. What gospel of the kingdom—including, said! does it bring to us? “But the fruit of course, obedience to the laws of In His parting commission, of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, God. We see that Philip preached Jesus said: “Go therefore and longsuffering, kindness, goodness, this gospel in Acts 8:12. Paul said make disciples of all the nations, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” he preached it to the Gentiles at baptizing them in the name of the (Galatians 5:22–23). Ephesus in Acts 20:25. And in Father and of the Son and of the The Holy Spirit gives us power Acts 28:30–31, we find that Paul Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). for self-mastery, self-discipline and continued to preach this same mes- In Peter’s inspired sermon on self-control. Through it, God’s love sage to the end of his ministry— the day of Pentecost, he shouted: is poured out in our hearts even to the Gentiles at Rome. “Repent, and let every one of you (Romans 5:5). The Holy Spirit This is the true gospel. It is a be baptized in the name of Jesus conforms us to the image of God message of the government of Christ for the remission of sins; (Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians Almighty God over our lives now, and you shall receive the gift of 3:18). as preparation for entrance into His the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38). You need God’s Spirit. You soon-coming, world-ruling king- Notice that God only promises need His guidance and protection. dom, when Jesus Christ will return the gift of the Holy Spirit on the But it is a tremendous deci- with divine power and glory as condition that you repent and are sion to yield yourself wholly to King of kings and Lord of lords. baptized. Later, Peter speaks of the God—to live by His every word And, since God’s kingdom has laws, Holy Spirit, which “God has given and obey Him throughout all eter- ys. You must repent and be baptized, or you will never receive God’s Holy Spirit.

it is a message of surrender and obe- to those who obey Him” (Acts nity. Such a decision must not be dience to the laws and rule of God. 5:32). You must do what God says. taken lightly. To prepare for that kingdom, You must repent and be baptized, you must first repent of your sinful or you will never receive God’s Baptism Involves ways. You must turn from sin, Holy Spirit. a Vital Decision which is the transgression of God’s There is no other way! spiritual law contained in the Ten The Apostle Paul stated: “Now Baptism symbolizes the death Commandments (1 John 3:4), and if anyone does not have the Spirit and burial of our old, sinful self, believe the true gospel. Then, there of Christ, he is not His” (Romans and our rising from the watery is another vital step you must 8:9). In other words, unless you grave to a new, changed and con- take: water baptism. have fully repented of your sins, verted life. It also pictures Jesus come to God through Jesus Christ Christ’s death and burial to pay for Water Baptism Is as your personal Savior, and been our sins, and His resurrection as Absolutely Necessary baptized as He has commanded, the firstborn from the dead. you are not Christ’s—you do not The Apostle Paul writes: “Or After total repentance and belong to Him. Therefore, you are do you not know that as many of belief in the true gospel, water bap- not a Christian in God’s eyes— us as were baptized into Christ

May–June 2007 7 Jesus were baptized into His “they loved the praise of men Be Sure of Your Decision death? Therefore we were buried more than the praise of God?” with Him through baptism into (John 12:43). God seems far If you still have some ques- death, that just as Christ was away to some people, and their tions about baptism, then write raised from the dead by the glory friends seem so close and so immediately for our free booklet, of the Father, even so we also important. Which do you Christian Baptism: Its Real should walk in newness of life” worship? Which do you obey? Meaning. This will answer many (Romans 6:3–4). If you had to give up your questions you may have. Your decision to be baptized job—your only source of income— But the decision to be baptized hinges on your willingness to is yours. If you feel that you are completely surrender your will ready to make an unconditional sur- and your life to God, through render to God through His Son Christ as your Savior. He paid the Jesus Christ as personal Savior, then penalty for your past sins. But write us an e-mail or letter telling us when you know the truth, you that you want to be baptized. can no longer do willfully what You can also write a letter to you know is sin and expect God’s the regional office nearest you forgiveness without genuine (listed on page 30 of this maga- repentance. zine), or phone us, or contact us God rules by His law! “Keep through our Web site, www.tomor- the commandments,” Jesus said. rowsworld.org. One of our repre- Paul wrote: “Do you not sentatives will then contact you know that to whom you present and arrange to meet you at a time yourselves slaves to obey, you are and place agreeable to you. In that one’s slaves whom you obey, most areas of the world, we have whether of sin leading to death, ministers to counsel with and or of obedience leading to right- baptize those who are ready to eousness” (Romans 6:16). in order to obey some point of fulfill this command of God. So do When you must choose truth you found in God’s word, not delay! between following the ways of would you do it? Would you exer- You need salvation! But you your friends and family, or obey- cise faith, as Jesus did, and rely on need to be absolutely sure that you ing what you have found to be God’s many promises to “supply are willing to do your part and the will of God—which course do all your need” (Philippians 4:19)? give yourself to God. Then you can you follow? Do you take the easy Would you worship God—or be certain that He will grant His way out and follow men? Do you Mammon? blessings, His protection and His serve and thereby worship the These questions apply to you! salvation to you! ways of men more than the ways of God? Do not “kid” yourself! You can Christian Baptism: Its Real Meaning never fool God! When you learn some new point of truth in the pages of this magazine, on the Tomorrow’s World Have you been properly baptized? Have you truly repented telecast, or in your own personal of your sins, and begun living according to the will of your Bible study, do you put it into Savior,Savior, with the help only He can provide?provide? If God is calling practice in your life—do you obey you, act now! it—or do you reject it because it conflicts with what your church or your particular society believes and observes? Write for our FREE booklet, Christian Baptism: Its Real Meaning, or download it from the Booklets section Are you like the Pharisees of our Web site www.tomorrowsworld.org. who rejected Christ because

8 TWM Question: Jesus said, “Do you not perceive that whatever enters a man from outside cannot defile him, because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and is eliminated, thus purifying all foods?” (Mark 7:18–19). Does this mean Christians can eat anything they want?

Answer: People sometimes use Mark 7:18–19 ing, “What God has cleansed you must not call to justify their desire to eat foods the Bible calls common” (Acts 10:15). “unclean.” It is important, however, to under- Did Peter understand this as the revocation stand this verse from a parable of Christ, in con- of the law of clean and unclean meats? No! Peter text, so we can truly appreciate what He was himself explained the lesson of the vision, saying teaching. “God has shown me that I should not call any Notice the verses immediately following: man common or unclean” (v. 28). God had given “And He said, ‘What comes out of a man, that Peter the vision to show that he should preach defiles a man, for from within, out of the heart to, and keep company with, Jews and Gentiles of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, for- alike. There is no account of Peter eating unclean nications, murders, thefts, covetousness, foods either before or after this vision! wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, An end-time prophecy from the book of blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil Isaiah demonstrates that when Christ returns, things come from within and defile a man” He will bring judgment on those who persist in (vv. 20–23). eating unclean animals, including those “eating Clearly, Jesus was making a point about the swine’s flesh” (Isaiah 66:17). If Christ had truly importance of godly conduct. But was He also allowed human beings to eat swine’s flesh, this making a point about diet? Notice the parallel prophecy would make no sense—unless we account of this parable in Matthew 15. Here, assume Christ plans to punish people for obey- Christ explained—in the context of ritual hand- ing Him! washing, not dietary requirements—that every The biblical laws of clean and unclean meats plant “which My heavenly Father has not plant- are not merely a way God sets His people apart; ed will be uprooted” (Matthew 15:13). This was they are laws that protect the physical health of a parable about godly conduct, not about what those who obey them. As Eerdmans’ Handbook should be on our lunch menu! of the Bible reminds us, “These lists [of clean and If this were a literal instruction about diet, we unclean creatures] have a significance often should ask ourselves, “Can Christians today ignored. Far from being based on fad or fancy, expect to eat arsenic and other poisons, yet not these lists emphasize a fact not discovered until be affected?” Of course not! The parable late in the last century… that animals carry dis- describes that all foods pass through a man. eases dangerous to man” (p. 176). Those who However, it does not say unclean items are con- obey God’s law today can experience the bless- sidered “food”—Christ was not telling us to eat ings He intended for His creation. arsenic, nor to eat the animals Scripture plainly To learn more about the biblical law of clean labels as “unclean” in Leviticus 11. and unclean meats, and how it can help you The Apostle Peter confirmed this understand- both physically and spiritually, please write to ing in Acts 10. God gave Peter a vision of a sheet the regional office nearest you (listed on page coming down from heaven, in which were some 30 of this magazine) and request your free copy animals he considered “unclean.” In the vision, a of our article, Do You Really Want to Eat That? voice told Peter to kill and eat the animals, but Following God’s dietary guidelines may change Peter refused, and God again spoke to him, say- your health—and your life! Amazingly, even while these authors are frantically waving the ban- ner of atheism and claiming that belief in materialism and evolution are the only rational conclusions any thinking person can hold, we are today witness- ing a worldwide resurgence in religious interest and activity! The appearance of such deliberate attacks on the God of the Bible—at a time of increasing vio- lence on the world scene, growing con- cerns over planetary climate change and the global resurgence of religious activi- ty—is significant in ways that few real- ize. The Bible provides vital insights explaining what is behind the resur- gence of religion and the skeptics’ attacks on God, Christianity and the Bible—and where this is leading. Before you accept misleading ideas and argu- ments, you need to understand why these issues are erupting today!

Wild Ideas

Modern atheists like to promote the idea that their anti-religious views are scientific, intellectually mature and rest By Douglas S. Winnail upon solid, irrefutable evidence. From such a premise, you would expect their books to be loaded with carefully assembled facts and unassailable infor- What is the real significance of the current mation. Instead, readers are pelted with attack by militant atheists on God and a steady stream of wild claims, unsub- religion? Where is it leading? stantiated statements, false information, antiquated arguments, risky assump- n the last several years, a handful of militant atheists have tions, open ridicule and erroneous con- launched a frontal assault on God and religion—especially clusions. Echoing Sigmund Freud who I on Christianity and the Bible. Their deliberate attack on reli- viewed religion as an illusion, an infan- gious belief is remarkable because it ignores the lessons of history tile delusion and a form of mental and the discoveries of modern science! Intentionally provocative illness, and Karl Marx who described books by Oxford zoologist Richard Dawkins and American writer religion as “the opiate of the people,” Sam Harris are clearly “no-holds-barred, anti-religion polemics Dawkins calls belief in a supernatural that call for the eradication of all manifestations of faith” god “delusional,” and labels religion (Christian Science Monitor, January 4, 2007). Dawkins, a devoted “the most common form of supersti- disciple of Darwinian evolution, has been called the “high priest tion” and a “virus of the mind” of modern atheism.” In his own words, he says he is “attacking (Dawkins, pp. 5, 15, 67, 186). Parents God, all gods, anything and everything supernatural, whatever who teach their children about God, and whenever they have been or will be invented” (The God Dawkins says, are guilty of brainwash- Delusion, p. 36). Harris similarly asserts, “I have set out to demol- ing and child abuse! Dawkins asserts, as ish the intellectual and moral pretensions of Christianity” (Letter do other aggressive atheists, “Those to a Christian Nation, p. ix). who believe in God are therefore dis-

10 TWM www.tomorrowsworld.org honest, deluded, or stupid” own agenda in mind” (ibid., p. many traditional “proofs” of God because they follow an “idiotic 85). Harris promotes similar ideas are weak, his own arguments are medieval superstition.” about the “stupidity” of religious often lacking in substance. Dawkins’ book The God faith. McGrath then provides a Regrettably, many in our day Delusion has been hailed as definition of faith accepted by the- accept or reject the idea of God “smart… brave… refreshing… ologians: “the conviction of the without ever requiring or examin- demolishes religious leaders’ mind based on adequate evidence” ing any evidence. attempts to prove the existence of (ibid., p. 86). This resembles the The atheistic attack on the God.” However, when examined biblical definition of faith as “the Bible reveals a failure to understand closely and critically, the ammuni- substance of things hoped for, the Scripture and an ignorance of his- tion Dawkins uses against religion evidence of things not seen” torical evidence. Harris labels as and belief in God turns out to be (Hebrews 11:1). Real faith is not “false” and an “absurdity” the idea little more than “rubber bullets” blind faith—it is belief based on that the Bible is divinely inspired by fired by ivory-tower academics substantial evidence! McGrath cri- God (Letter to a Christian Nation, who have a poor grasp of the sub- tiques Dawkins as one “who, pp. 5–8). He completely overlooks ject they are attacking. Perhaps knowing nothing about Christian the evidence that the Bible is a the most audacious exercise in bad theology, rushes headlong into the totally unique text. Harris cites taste employed by this current field… There is a total failure on scriptural examples out of context atheist offensive is the “blasphemy Dawkins’ part to even begin to and then claims the teachings of challenge” directed at young peo- understand what Christian theolo- the Bible are “muddled and contra- ple. An Internet group invites gy means by its language” dictory” (ibid., p. 11). He states that young people “to create videos in (Dawkins’ God, p. 99). This same “the gospels contradict one anoth- which they renounce belief in the criticism can apply to others who er” (ibid., p. 58), yet he fails to ‘sky God of Christianity’ and have launched the modern attack mention that the gospels are com- upload it on the site” as “a way for on God, religion and the Bible— plementary accounts of events writ- people to show their non-belief they simply do not understand the ten by different authors—in which and encouraging others to come subject they are trying to attack! we would expect some difference in out” (Christian Science Monitor, Dawkins frequently resorts to details. He claims New Testament January 4, 2007). ridicule in his attempts to prove writers made the events of Jesus’ life there is no God. He claims the conform to Old Testament prophe- “Theologically existence of God is “no more cies (ibid., p. 57), yet he fails to probable than the tooth fairy” or a explain why thousands of Jews rec- Challenged” Authors “Flying Spaghetti Monster” ognized Jesus as fulfilling prophe- Many critics have challenged (Dawkins, pp. 52–53). In his cies—including being visibly resur- the arguments and information intemperate and irreverent man- rected from the dead—which had presented by aggressively atheistic ner, Dawkins asserts, “The God of been in Scripture for hundreds of writers. Alister McGrath is the Old Testament is arguably the years (Acts 2:22–41). Professor of Historical Theology at most unpleasant character in all Harris dismisses the idea of Oxford University and a world- fiction: jealous and proud of it; a inspired prophecy because the renowned theologian who also petty, unjust, unforgiving control- Bible did not predict such innova- holds a Ph.D. in molecular bio- freak; a vindictive, bloodthirsty tions as electricity and computers physics. He writes: “To put it ethnic cleanser… homophobic, (Letter to a Christian Nation, pp. bluntly, Dawkins’ engagement racist… malevolent bully… psy- 60–61), yet he fails to mention with theology is superficial and chotic delinquent… the monster how the Bible describes prophetic inaccurate, often amounting to lit- of the Bible” (ibid., pp. 31, 38, promises that revealed the future of tle more than cheap point scoring” 45). This malicious diatribe, how- Abraham’s descendants long before (Dawkins’ God, p. 83). McGrath ever, simply does not disprove the they arrived on the scene (for more cites Dawkins’ definition of faith existence of God. In fact, it totally on this vital topic, request our free as “blind trust, in the absence of overlooks how the God of the booklet, The United States and evidence” as totally ludicrous in Bible challenges people to prove Great Britain in Prophecy). Harris that it is merely “Dawkins’ own that He exists (see Malachi also neglects to mention that the definition, constructed with his 3:8–10). While Dawkins claims health laws recorded by Moses May–June 2007 11 were unique and far in advance of by history and archaeology, that create anything resembling life. He their time. Showing his ignorance the books of the New Testament notes that, contrary to evolution- of comparative religion, Harris were written during the lifetimes ary theory which asserts all life lumps the Bible together with other of the apostles (Sheler, p. 33; developed from simple to complex religious books which “pretend to Baker Encyclopedia of Christian organisms, the actual fossils in the divine authorship” (Letter to a Apologetics, Geisler, p. 520), and oldest Cambrian rocks show com- Christian Nation, p. 79), yet he fails that manuscript evidence confirms plex forms of life appearing sud- to acknowledge how the Bible dif- that “in substance of the text the denly, fully formed and without fers from other religious books. Bible is certain… This can be said evolutionary ancestors—the so- Harris simply does not know much of no other ancient book in the called “Cambrian explosion” that about the subject he sets out to world” (Evidence that Demands a even Darwin recognized was a demolish! Verdict, McDowell, pp. 44–45). problem for his theory (ibid., pp. Outspoken and combative, 35–39). Dawkins makes similar outrageous Frauds and Wells points out how Darwin’s and ill-founded claims contrary to Missing Evidence idea of a branching “tree of life,” existing evidence. He asserts that depicting how all life developed the gospels are “ancient fiction,” Aggressive atheists are often from a single ancestor, is now no more credible than legends of quick to attack religious beliefs largely discredited. He shows how King Arthur and his Knights of like the idea of Purgatory, and the the variation in beak structure of the Round Table. He opines that assumption that the earth is only Darwin’s finches in the Galapagos the apostles almost certainly never 6,000 years old. Like Charles Islands, and the coloration of pep- met Jesus, that Jesus probably Darwin, today’s atheists also recoil pered moths in England, are mere- never lived and that David proba- at the idea of a god who would ly examples of variation within a bly never existed (Dawkins, pp. devise the “damnable doctrine” of species and do not prove evolu- 93–97). However, Dawkins fails to people burning forever in the fires tion can produce new species. He mention Peter’s claim that he and of Hell (Dawkins’ God, pp. 74–75). reveals that paleontologists no the other apostles were “eyewit- However, those “religious” ideas longer regard Archaeopteryx—once nesses” to the events they record- are not actually found in the called “the almost perfect link ed about Jesus’ life (2 Peter 1:16), Bible! While they correctly point between reptiles and birds”—to be or that historians in ancient Rome out some weak spots in man-made an ancestor of modern birds (ibid., referred to Jesus (see Tacitus, The religious doctrines, atheists fail to pp. 112–114). Wells relates how Annals, xv:44; Suetonius, Life of acknowledge serious flaws in their another supposed “missing link” Claudius, xxv.4; Josephus, own “sacred” teaching—the theo- between reptiles and birds— Antiquities of the Jews, XVIII.iii.3). ry of Darwinian evolution. Archaeoraptor, a fossil smuggled Dawkins appears to be unaware of And there are many such out of China—turned out to be a the discovery of a ninth century flaws. Jonathan Wells, who holds hoax, and that another possible BC inscription about the “house of a Ph.D. in religious studies from “link” named Bambiraptor has David” (Is the Bible True?, Sheler, Yale University and a Ph.D. in been depicted with hair and feath- p. 60). Dawkins asserts that “the molecular biology from the ers, “but nothing remotely resem- gospels are not reliable accounts University of California at bling feathers was found with the of what happened in the history of Berkeley, has written an informa- fossil. The hair-like projections the real world” and that “all were tive book explaining how the and the feathers are imaginary” written long after the death of major “proofs” put forward for (ibid., pp. 126–129). He quotes an Jesus” such that “huge uncertain- evolution “in one way or another, ornithologist who predicts the ty” surrounds the New Testament misrepresent the truth.” Wells dinosaur-to-bird theory will even- texts (Dawkins, pp. 92–95). points out that much of the “over- tually be “the greatest embarrass- Dawkins, however, chooses to whelming evidence” for Darwin’s ment to paleontology of the 20th quote only liberal theologians who theory of evolution turns out to be century” (ibid., p. 130). harbor doubts about the Bible. He “false or misleading” (Icons of Wells also points out that fails to notice that people and Evolution, pp. 7–8). He shows how widely published drawings made places mentioned in Scripture supposed “origin of life” experi- by embryologist Ernst Haeckel in have been dramatically confirmed ments were flawed and did not the 1890s—which Darwin took to

12 TWM be convincing evidence for his there is no God… then there are numbers of people have become theory of evolution—were “doc- no absolute values and truths… disenchanted with the bleak, pur- tored” by Haeckel to show similar- no sins… no judgment on sins” poseless, random, atheistically sec- ities that do not exist, and have and therefore no limits on human ular world of the 20th century, been exposed as “one of the most behavior and no accountability and are once again turning to reli- famous fakes in biology” (ibid., (ibid., pp. 151, 153). By claiming gion to regain a sense of meaning, pp. 90–92). Wells concludes that that human existence has no ethics and order (ibid., p. 47). As the “icons” that supposedly pro- meaning or purpose and denying more than one scholar has noted, vide the strongest evidence for absolute values, atheists promote “People need to find meaning and evolution actually “misrepresent the idea of liberation from restric- purpose in life” (New York Times, the evidence”—and that some tive morality systems that interfere November 21, 2006). have actually turned out to be with sexual freedoms and give fraudulent (ibid., p. 229). people license to decide for them- Prophetic Significance Even so, atheists like Dawkins selves what is good (ibid., p. 152). have latched onto Darwinian evo- However, the sobering lesson of Many who study the Bible are lution because it is the only way the last two hundred years of his- aware that prophecies about the they can explain why we are here tory is that “to remove God is to end of the age describe a time of without invoking any reference to eliminate the final restraint on increasing concerns about war, God. True believers in Darwinism human brutality” (ibid., p. 149). violence, natural disasters and simply refuse to accept any other Contrary to the expectations global environmental crises— explanation for why the world is of secular thinkers, the last half of which certainly fit our world the way it is—regardless of the the 20th century has witnessed today (Matthew 24). However, evidence, or lack of evidence. This the “twilight” of the rule of athe- end-time prophecies also foresaw is why Darwinism has been called ism. The godless ideas of Darwin, the appearance of blasphemous “the greatest engine of atheism Marx and Freud—which Dawkins, attacks on God and the Bible, fore- devised by man.” Yet atheism, and Harris and other atheists are pro- telling that in the last days, “per- Darwinian evolution upon which moting—came under discrediting ilous times will come: for men will it rests, both reveal serious short- fire. Not only did “the great athe- be lovers of themselves… boast- comings to those who examine the istic messianic ideology” of com- ers, proud, blasphemers… despis- evidence carefully. munism established by the ers of good… headstrong, haughty, Russian revolution collapse, but lovers of pleasure rather than Crisis of Meaning religion in the Soviet Union and lovers of God” (2 Timothy 3:1–4). Eastern Europe refused to die (The We can recognize this biblical and Purpose Revenge of God, Kepler, p. 191). description in Dawkins’ references Theological historian McGrath Today, we are seeing the rival of to God as a “tooth fairy… psy- writes that one of Darwinism’s “re-Christianizing” movements chotic delinquent” and “the mon- major consequences is that “evo- sprouting from the ruins of com- ster” of the Bible. Harris claims lutionary theory leads to a godless, munism—which has been a shock purposeless world” (The Twilight to secular intellectuals. Increasing (Continued on page 29) of Atheism, p. 108). In Dawkins’ own words, “There is no need to believe in God after Darwin” and The Bible: Fact or Fiction? in a Darwinian world “there is… no design, no purpose, no evil and Is biblical rreligioneligion a fantasy, or is it grounded in truth no good, nothing but blind pitiless that you can prproveove for yourself? The answer may indifference” (Dawkins’ God, pp. surprise you—and could change your life! 50–51). Darwinism postulates that human beings are simply animals, accidents of the evolutionary process with no higher purpose Write for our FREE booklet, The Bible: Fact or Fiction? or download it from the Booklets section than natural selection—survival of of our Web site www.tomorrowsworld.org. the fittest. McGrath observes, “If

May–June 2007 13 PProphecyrophecy ComesComes AliveAlive Scoffers in the Last Days! More peo- ry; it is conjecture that could well be fiction. Similarly, ple profess in The Jesus Papers, Michael Baigent provides no solid Christianity evidence—and certainly no proof—for his assertion than any other that Jesus did not die in the crucifixion. religion. More Modern scholars often adopt ideas that run contrary than two bil- to the biblical record because they do not believe the lion people Bible contains an accurate record of history, so they take alive today the scriptural accounts apart, then reassemble them in a say they manner they think is more correct. Tabor and other mod- believe Jesus ern scholars base their ideas about the Gospels on the Christ came so-called “Q” document” or Gospel of Q—a hypothetical to this earth collection of Jesus’ sayings envisioned by a 19th century as the Son of God to be cru- German scholar. As one theological encyclopedia notes: cified for the sins of the world, and that He was buried, “Since Q allegedly contains sayings, not works or mira- rose from the dead and ascended to heaven. The Bible cles of Jesus, it is used as a basis for denying the resurrec- presents Jesus’ miracles and His resurrection as proof of tion” and also the deity of Christ (Baker Encyclopedia of His divinity. Scripture shows that these events were wit- Christian Apologetics, pp. 618–621). However, no one has nessed by many and were powerful reasons for the spread ever seen this theoretical Q document, and one former of the Christian religion. proponent of Q now states, “This is the stuff of fairy However, some modern writers and scholars are tales” (ibid.). The idea of a Q document “is based on a suggesting that these fundamental teachings of reconstructionist view of history that rejects New Christianity are only myths and fables. Skeptics have Testament history in Acts. If the Q hypothesis is cor- postulated that Jesus was not divine, that He married rect… the book of Acts must be altogether false. Yet no and had a child—and that He did not rise from the book in the New Testament has more authentication of dead, but was secretly buried in a family tomb in its historical accuracy than Acts” (ibid.). By postulating a Jerusalem with his wife and son. While some speculate never-seen Q document as the basis for the Gospels, that this new “understanding” about Jesus Christ modern scholars can take liberties in reconstructing “could be among the most significant in history” Jesus’ life as they imagine it to be—so it is no wonder that (Charlotte Observer, March 4, 2007), what we are wit- these “new” perspectives on the life of Jesus differ so dra- nessing today is simply more prophecy coming alive! matically from the actual events recorded in the Bible. Some scholars point to apocryphal writings—never Imagining the Past accepted by the Church—for evidence that Jesus was married and had children. One such suggestion that Where are these “new” ideas coming from? What Jesus had a romantic relationship comes from the are their sources? A closer look is revealing. Dr. James Gnostic Gospel of Philip—a source considered spurious Tabor, author of The Jesus Dynasty, asserts that his and heretical by early Church leaders—yet some mod- recently published book “presents the story of Jesus in ern scholars view it, and other similar writings, as valid an entirely new light. It is history, not fiction” (p. 4). history. Dan Brown, author of the Da Vinci Code, draws Yet he states: “History is not merely an assemblage of on these sources as well as other pagan and occult facts. It also involves an attempt to retrieve and imagine works—yet even scholars who rely on some of the same the past” (p. 305). Critics note that Tabor’s book—and works recognize Dan Brown’s novel as pure fiction! the television documentary The Lost Tomb of Jesus to which he contributed—contain “a lot of speculation.” The Biblical Record In the concluding pages of his book, Tabor writes: “There is much we can never know… With regard to A study of the Gospels quickly reveals how some areas we are left to guess and speculate… [what] the Bible differs from the speculative pronouncements might have taken place…” (p. 308). That is not histo- of modern liberal scholars. The Bible states plainly

14 TWM mmeses AliveAlive

that a “virgin die for the sins of the world, as His dis- shall conceive ciples recognized (1 John 2:2). Yet and bear a Son, some revisionist scholars speculate and shall call that the Gospels are mistaken, and His name that Jesus had a wife and children Immanuel”— with whom He intended to start a meaning “God with dynastic line. These scholars say us” (Isaiah 7:14). He believed He would not die by Jesus’ enemies crucifixion, but that “God would mocked Him as not intervene to save him from his having a physical enemies at the final moment” father (John 8:41). (The Jesus Dynasty, p. 310). This makes for Modern scholars, operat- entertaining speculation, but totally ing on the assumption contradicts what the Bible that miraculous events clearly reveals—and cannot occur, reject the undermines the very biblical account of Jesus’ message of the Gospels. supernatural concep- tion and virgin birth. End-Time Scoffers The Bible clearly Prophesied states that Jesus’ body was not present when The increasing number His disciples of scholars and writers mak- entered the tomb ing headlines by openly on the third day, and that challenging fundamental cloths that wrapped the body were left teachings of the Bible should behind (Mark 16:6; Luke 24:3–7; John 20:1–7). come as no surprise to students Unable to accept a miraculous explanation, some mod- of Scripture. Long ago, God ern scholars suggest Jesus’ body was taken from the foretold that “scoffers will come tomb and secretly buried elsewhere, though the Bible in the last days, walking according to their own lusts” (2 explains Roman soldiers were paid to circulate that very Peter 3:1–6). In The Expositor’s Bible Commentary this lie in order to deny the fact of the resurrection (Matthew phrase refers to “false teachers… who deny biblical 28:11–15). truths” (volume 12, p. 284). The Bible states that “in the Scripture explains that Jesus appeared alive after the last days” men “having a form of godliness but denying resurrection on many occasions—even to a group of 500 its power” will actually deny that “all Scripture is given onlookers (John 20:19–20, 26; 21:1–7; 1 Corinthians by the inspiration of God” (2 Timothy 3:1–17). They 15:6–8). Jesus’ resurrection on the third day was the pri- will agree with Dan Brown’s phrase, “The Bible is the mary sign that He was the promised Messiah (Luke 9:22; product of man, my dear. Not of God” (The Da Vinci 18:31–33; 24:46). Modern liberal scholars, however, Code, p. 250). Looking to the end of the age, the Apostle with their anti-supernatural bias, deny that a dead body Paul predicted that “the time will come when… they can come alive and walk out of a grave, so they operate will have itching ears [to hear some new idea], they will on the assumption that Jesus’ body must be buried some- heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn where. Think about it: if Jesus’ body were buried in a their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to family tomb near the site of His crucifixion, as some crit- fables” (2 Timothy 4:1–5). This is where we are today! ics now assert, surely the religious and secular authori- Modern writers and scholars are twisting the Scriptures, ties would have been able to find that body and show it denying the inspiration of the Bible, rejecting fundamen- to the public to squash the new Christian movement! tal teachings of Christianity and creating in their imagi- The Bible explains that Jesus preached about a nations entirely different views about the life of Jesus coming kingdom of God (Mark 1:14–15), which He Christ. Prophecies are indeed coming alive! said “is not of this world” (John 18:36). Christ came to —Douglas S. Winnail

May–June 2007 15 even higher—41 percent in France, roughly 50 percent in Norway, and 62 percent in Iceland (Daily Policy Digest, March 27, 2002). Compounding the problem is that the U.S. has the second-highest divorce rate in the world. Recently, married couples for the first time became a minority, accounting for only 49.7 per- cent of households with children.

Choosing Fatherlessness

Increasingly, older single mothers are choosing to become pregnant without a husband. One 31- year old single mother noted that when she became pregnant “it didn’t matter if I had a man, because I knew I could do it alone.” A single mother said that her 9-year old daughter “does cry sometimes about not having her dad around, but we talk about it… I do feel guilt sometimes, but we don’t let it overwhelm us” (Monterey Herald, December 25, 2006). What about the effect on children? Kay Hymowitz, a senior fellow at the Manhattan By Rod McNaiir Institute, said, “Children raised by single moms have a greater risk of poverty, emotional prob- lems, school failure… Cohabitating parents don’t show quite the same strength; neither do steppar- ents. Marriage carries with it a whole set of mes- Will the “good family man” soon be extinct? sages about how to live, which are consistent with middle-class life in this country” (ibid.). illions of families will observe Father’s Day this Out-of-wedlock pregnancy and divorce are so year on June 17. The United States is one of widespread, according to author David several dozen countries that observe this much- Blankenhorn, that “before they reach the age of M eighteen, more than half of our nation’s children beloved holiday on the third Sunday of June each year. Other countries set different dates for Father’s Day; India are likely to spend at least a significant portion of observes it on the first Sunday of June (June 3 this year), their childhoods living apart from their fathers” and several European countries (including Italy, Portugal (Fatherless America, p. 1). In studying divorce, and Spain) observe it on March 19. In Australia and New researchers Paul Amato and Alan Booth concluded Zealand, Father’s Day falls on the first Sunday of that “at most a third of divorces are so distressed September (September 2 this year). that the children are likely to benefit. The remain- As we approach this day when we honor fathers, we der, about 70 percent, involve low-conflict mar- should ask: What is the state of “fatherhood”? Does it riages that apparently harm children much less have real significance in society today? than the realities of divorce (“Two parents, even True fatherhood is not just the biological capacity to unhappy, are better,” Today, January 7, 1998). father children. In-vitro fertilization can accomplish that In Bringing Up Boys, psychologist James with no father present. True fatherhood involves a father Dobson points out that in spite of such evidence, being in the home, training and loving his children in the con- some believe not only that fathers are unnecessary, text of a committed marriage relationship. By that definition, but that the institution of fatherhood is harmful to fatherhood in the United States is at an all-time low. Nearly families (p. 65). He cites Carl Auerbach and Louise 40 percent of U.S. births now occur out of wedlock, Silverstein, authors of Deconstructing the Essential according to December 2006 statistics from the Centers for Father, as well as Karla Mantilla, a radical feminist Disease Control. In some European countries the figure is author, who said, “I am highly suspicious of the…

16 TWM www.tomorrowsworld.org necessity of kids to have a male duced by paternal authority as ‘the bond is frequently charged with role model… The propaganda that root of religion’ and ‘the secret of distance, tension, and even hostili- children, especially boys, need who we are…’ In short, antagonism ty, all stemming, at least in part, fathers I think, has contributed toward paternal power seems to go from the typically distinctive con- incalculably to the misery of chil- with the territory of fatherhood” tent of paternal authority… the dren all over the world” (ibid.). (Blankenhorn, p. 93). father’s power, as a general anthro- Some years ago, a greeting-card pological proposition, is more con- Roots of Paternal Conflict company started a special Mother’s flictual than the mother’s: more Day program for federal prison rule-oriented, more emotionally Some mistakenly believe that inmates. Prisoners received a free distant, more aggressive… Much Jesus Christ came to earth to card, postage paid, to send to their of this tension is rooted in the fact counterbalance a harsh “Father- mothers for Mother’s Day. The that the child both craves and figure” God. They fail to see how response was overwhelming! The resents authority. So does a culture” Jesus showed only deep respect, lines were so long, representatives (Blankenhorn, p. 93). honor and love for His Father. He had to return to the factory to get Is fatherhood a valid excuse said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, more cards. The program was so for abusive behavior? Of course the Son can do nothing of successful, the company decided to not! Violence against wives and Himself, but what He sees the come back on Fathers’ Day. What children is a horrible and tragic Father do… For the Father loves happened on Father’s Day? Nothing. crime. Women and children need the Son… I do not seek My own There were no lines at all. Not a sin- to take steps to protect themselves will but the will of the Father who gle inmate wanted to send a card to against criminal behavior when it sent Me” (John 5:19–20, 30). In his father. Truly, a loving relation- occurs. However, it is wrong to John 14:28, Jesus said His Father ship with a father has a profound believe, as some do, that the was greater than He, in position effect on one’s life. And the lack of fatherhood role itself increases vio- and authority. He said He came to an engaged, active father is a strong lence against women. In fact, evi- earth to reveal and declare the determining factor in behavior gone dence from the National Crime Father (John 1:18). awry (Dobson, p. 60). Victimization Survey showed that Christ taught that we are to Where did antagonism against boyfriends and ex-husbands— pray to, worship, and love “our fatherhood originate? In the distant unmarried men—are six times Father in heaven” (Matthew 6:9). past, before mankind was created, more likely than husbands to He said, “O righteous Father! The the archangel Lucifer rebelled commit violence against women world has not known You, but I against God, our Father in heaven. (ibid., p. 35). Clearly, when men have known You, and these [His We read: “How you are fallen from are married, the risk of abuse is disciples] have known that You heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morn- dramatically decreased. God man- sent Me. And I have declared to ing!... For you have said in your dates that the father is to be the them Your name, and will declare heart… I will ascend above the head of the home (Ephesians it, that the love with which You heights of the clouds, I will be like 5:23), but his role of leadership loved Me may be in them.” (John the Most High” (Isaiah 14:12–14). must be exercised in love and 17:25–26). Jesus, as our personal Lucifer became Satan, and as Satan kindness (v. 25). Savior and Elder Brother, is teach- he transmitted his attitude of rebel- The Bible reveals four distinct ing us to love His—and our— lion to Adam and Eve in the roles that fathers are meant to ful- heavenly Father as well! Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:5). That fill. We can also see these roles Yet many still recoil from same spirit of rebellion against fulfilled by our spiritual Father in fatherhood, in the family or in reli- authority—even the authority of heaven. What are these roles? gion. “Consider this dilemma of our heavenly Father—has been the father’s power. It is a funda- passed on to all mankind, and the Fathers Provide mental human problem, shaping result is sin (Romans 3:23). psyches and cultures. The anthro- Human nature naturally resists When God thrust Adam and pologist Weston La Barre, for authority—whether the father of a Eve out of the garden, Adam’s role example, probing for the origins family, or the Father-figure God was to provide for the sustenance of religion in human societies, (Romans 8:7). “More than the of the family (Genesis 3:17–19). finally views the ‘anguish’ pro- mother-child bond, the father-child The Apostle Paul taught that

May–June 2007 17 Do Boys Need Fathers?

• The National Center for Children in Poverty • Don Elium, author of Raising a Son, says reports that fatherless boys are twice as that with troubled boys, the common theme likely to drop out of school or go to jail, is distant, uninvolved fathers. and nearly four times as likely to need • Prisons are populated primarily by men who treatment for emotional and behavioral were abandoned or rejected by their problems. fathers. Bill Glass, a dedicated evangelist • Dr. William Pollock, Harvard psychologist who counseled almost every weekend for and author of Real Boys, says divorce is dif- 25 years with men who were incarcerated, ficult for children of both sexes, but is dev- says that among the thousands of prisoners astating for boys. He says the he had met, not one of them basic problem is the lack of disci- genuinely loved his dad. Ninety- pline and supervision in the five percent of those on death father’s absence, and his unavail- row hated their fathers. ability to teach what it means to be a man. Pollock also believes (Source: Bringing up Boys, fathers are crucial in helping James Dobson, M.D., pp. boys to manage their emotions. 55–56, 60)

wives’ and mothers’ primary need to step into the “primary Fathers Protect responsibility was to be managers breadwinner” role. But the general of the home (Titus 2:5; 1 Timothy biblical principle is that a husband God designed fathers to pro- 5:14). These passages shock and should provide for his own tect their wives and children. Men embarrass some people today, but (1 Timothy 5:8). are generally bigger and stronger they outline basic biblical roles. Does God, as our Father, than women—ideally suited for Indeed, when men shirk their provide for His children? Of the role of protector and provider. responsibility to provide, they cause course! He sends the sunshine Their larger frames and stronger untold suffering. Author Aubrey and the rain to all (Matthew muscles were designed to help Andelin describes the reaction of a 5:45). God takes special care to care for—not abuse and terror- woman whose husband quit a high- put bread on the table of those ize—a wife and children. er-paying job for another which who honor and love Him, so that Not that long ago, society made him happier, but at which he “in the days of famine they shall took for granted that a father’s role only worked four hours a day. “[My be satisfied” (Psalm 37:19). was to protect his daughters from husband] does not seem to care David wrote, “I have been boys’ unhealthy advances. Meg whether or not he provides for us… young, and now am old; yet I Meeker describes her father this we are desperate for money. We have not seen the righteous for- way: “My dad protected me fierce- have been living with his parents saken, nor his descendants [chil- ly, to the point where I was almost for the past seven months and it dren] begging bread” (Psalm too embarrassed to date anyone… doesn’t even look hopeful that we 37:25). Jesus taught His disciples But he protected me, not from might possibly have our own place to ask their Father in heaven to predatory boys or monsters, but to live. I am losing all respect for “give us this day our daily from myself. I was young and too my husband and without respect bread” (Matthew 6:11), and that trusting of people and he knew there is not real love” (Man of Steel it is God’s pleasure to “give good that long before I did” (Strong and Velvet, p. 78). Yes, a man’s things to those who ask Him” Fathers, Strong Daughters, p. 3). desire and earnest attempt to pro- (Matthew 7:11). Let us look to Today, we see rampant gang vide for family members is vital if our spiritual Father for our sus- violence in communities where he is to retain their respect. tenance and needs. And let us fathers are largely absent from their Sometimes, of course, a man uphold the biblical role of physi- children’s lives. “Neighborhoods may be unable to provide for his cal fathers to do the same in without fathers are neighborhoods family. Sometimes a wife may families here on earth. without men able and willing to

18 TWM www.tomorrowsworld.org confront errant youth, chase ical and emotional needs. Fathers, is committed to helping us do that, threatening gangs, and reproach on the other hand, are typically so we can enjoy “the peaceable fruit delinquent fathers… the absence more concerned about character of righteousness to those who have of fathers… deprives the commu- growth than fulfilling immediate been trained by it” (v. 11). nity of those little platoons that emotional needs. Scripture Fatherhood is not a curse. It is informally but often effectively reminds us: “Chasten thy son a necessary complement to moth- control boys on the street” while there is hope, and let not thy erhood for the training of the next (Blankenhorn, p. 31). soul spare for his crying” generation. If you had a father Does our Father in heaven (Proverbs 19:18, KJV). Both moth- who trained you, give thanks for take care of us? The Bible is full of ers and fathers are necessary for the guidance he passed on to you, examples of the protection our bringing up healthy children, however imperfectly. And let us all Father affords us—especially in because they complement and bal- be grateful that God, as our the Psalms. Even salvation itself— ance one another. Author Tim Father, is willing to train us for rescuing us from the final destruc- Russert recalled, “Although Dad’s life with Him in His Kingdom. tion of death—is God protecting disciplinary tactics were rarely His children (1 Corinthians appreciated by his kids at the time, Fathers Nurture 15:57). God loves us, even to the I could have filled this whole book point of giving up His Son for our with grateful testimonies from Though fathers may not have lives (John 3:16). sons and daughters who were at the same deep “emotional well” If you value God’s protection the receiving end years ago” that mothers have, their comfort in your life, be appreciative of (Wisdom of our Fathers, p. 223). and encouragement is also essen- Him. And be thankful for the Discipline, however, does not tial for their children’s growth. similar role He established for mean lashing out in anger. Paul While gentleness, tenderness and fathers on earth. wrote, “Do not provoke your affection may not come as natural- children, lest they become discour- ly to some men, those qualities Fathers Teach aged” (Colossians 3:21). Along must be present in fathers who with teaching, measured, hope to nurture balanced, healthy God has also given fathers a consistent and firm discipline— children. “Gentleness is to the unique role in the education of “exhorting” and “charging”—is steel qualities what mercy is to their children. The word “disci- what it takes for fathers to “bring justice. When justice is meted out pline” did not originally mean [children] up in the training and alone, it is cold, undeviating, and punishment; it meant teaching. admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians unsympathetic…. Although justice Just a few hundred years ago, in 6:4; 1 Thessalonians 2:11). is in reality given for the benefit of colonial America, fathers “bore God our Father has established the individual, without mercy it the ultimate responsibility for the a program of character develop- appears intent on the suffering or care and well-being of their chil- ment for us. Sometimes that even the destruction of the per- dren… fathers assumed primary includes trials and tests (Jeremiah son…” (Andelin, p. 213). responsibility for what was seen 17:10), for our eventual good. We A father who is not attentive as the most essential parental are told, “‘My son, do not despise to his children’s emotional needs task: the religious and moral edu- the chastening of the Lord, nor be will seem cold and distant. When cation of the young.” As the discouraged when you are rebuked warmth, communication, and industrial revolution removed by Him; For whom the Lord loves encouragement are absent in a men from the household econo- He chastens… Furthermore, we father, family roles can devolve my, women became the primary have had human fathers who cor- into “master-slave” relationships. influence in the home. This shift rected us, and we paid them Sadly, as authors Ernest Havemann has been one of the “defining fea- respect… For they indeed for a few and Marlene Lehtinen note, this is tures of American domestic life days chastened us as seemed best to how many today see traditional since the 1840s” (Blankenhorn, them, but He for our profit, that we marriage roles (Marriage and p. 237). may be partakers of His holiness” Families, p. 206). But God never In general, mothers are better (Hebrews 12:5–7, 9–10). If we are intended fathers to be cold and equipped to pay special attention to be in His Kingdom, we need to aloof. Notice how He describes to their children’s immediate phys- grow and change. God our Father Himself as our Father: “As one

May–June 2007 19 Do Girls Need Fathers?

• Girls who are close to their fathers exhibit • Girls with involved fathers wait longer to less anxiety and withdrawn behaviors. become sexually active and have lower • Daughters who perceive that their fathers rates of teen pregnancy. care a lot about them, and who feel connect- • Seventy-six percent of teen girls said fathers ed to their fathers, have significantly fewer influenced their decisions on whether they suicide attempts and fewer instances of body should become sexually active. dissatisfaction, depression, low self-esteem, • A daughter from a middle-class family has a substance use and unhealthy weight. five-fold lower risk of out-of-wedlock preg- • Girls with involved fathers are twice as likely nancy if her father lives at home. to stay in school. • Girls who lived with their mothers and fathers • Girls with fathers who are involved in their have significantly fewer growth and develop- lives have higher quantitative and verbal mental delays, and fewer learning disorders, skills and higher intellectual functioning. emotional disabilities and behavior problems. • Girls whose parents • Girls who live apart from their divorce or separate before fathers have significantly less ability they turn twenty-one tend to control impulses and delay gratifi- to have shorter life spans cation, and have a weaker sense of by four years. right and wrong. • Girls with good fathers are less likely to flaunt (Source: Strong Fathers, Strong themselves to seek male Daughters, Meg Meeker, M.D., pp. attention. 23–25).

whom his mother comforts, so In a speech for the National Will “good family men” become I will comfort you…” (Isaiah Father’s Day Committee, General extinct? Not as long as there are 66:13). Paul explained that in Douglas MacArthur said: “By profes- men—and women—who appreciate his dealings with the church, he sion, I am a soldier… But I am fathers’ importance in society, today tried to be like a caring, compas- prouder, infinitely prouder, to be a and in the future. God has given us sionate father who comforts father… It is my hope that my son, the father’s role as a mirror-image of (1 Thessalonians 2:11). when I am gone, will remember me His protection, providence, disci- As society becomes more deca- not from the battle, but in the home” pline, and love for all humanity. As dent and self-obsessed, children (Dobson, pp. 68–69). True father- Father’s Day approaches, we should need more than ever the strength hood is a noble and honorable role thank God—our Father—for the and love of devoted fathers who for a man, and is worth striving for. gift of fatherhood. will stand by them, support them and be a hero for them. British psy- chiatrist Dr. Joshua Bierer once God’s Plan for Happy Marriage observed “[America is] still the fatherless society. The husbands are not husbands. All the women are When mother and father areare crying out for a strong man and he’s following God’s way, happiness just not there” (Andelin, p. xi). is the suresure result!result! YouYou can have Children need fathers—and women happiness in your own marriage! need husbands—who will not bend to peer pressure of “what other par- ents do.” Children need committed fathers who look out for their Write for our FREE booklet, Gods Plan for Happy Marriage, or download it from the Booklets section future character—not just bowing of our Web site www.tomorrowsworld.org. to their every whim and wish.

20 TWM I have read many of your booklets again expecting different results. I don’t want to online and some of your magazine arti- be insane anymore. I yearn for the peace of mind cles, and I found them to be to the that God grants by living His way. point and cogently argued. In partic- ular, I appreciated reading your D.M., Hugo, OK booklets The Ten Commandments and Who Controls the Weather?. As a former criminal I want you to think and pray long and hard lawyer, now working in the area of immigration, about what you are doing. Jesus did not empha- I can attest firsthand that when there is a lack of size the end of the world. He emphasized how to the presence of the father in a family, this is treat one another. I pray you desist in marketing probably the strongest reason for the increase of fear and focus on love and mission. I demand you crime. Keep up the good work, and know that remove this address from your mailing list. your message is being heard. C.R., Adrian, MI D.J., Oshawa, ON, Canada Would you please send me the booklet, I was surprised to read Douglas S. Winnail’s arti- Satan’s Counterfeit Christianity? I can’t get enough cle (“The Earth Strikes Back!”) in the March-April of your information. I received the Tomorrow’s 2007 issue. I agree that the earth’s climate seems to World two days ago, and we were traveling be causing more disasters than in the recently immediately thereafter. I read over half of it at the recorded past. This is consistent with Bible prophe- family’s home and finished it when I returned. The cy. However, do we really know the causes? Some only problem with it is there is never enough for points not addressed in your article: Burning fossil me. I am currently working on Lesson 22 of the fuel releases carbon monoxide, not carbon diox- Bible Study Course and it is even better than the ide. Volcanic eruptions release great amounts of last. I pray for your continued work. Thank you carbon dioxide. Water vapor contributes to the and the Lord for this work you are doing. This “greenhouse effect” about three times as much as comes from the bottom of my heart. carbon dioxide. Solar activity also seems to play a role, as suggested by recent findings of “global I.M., Starrucca, PA warming” on Mars. Ice core data shows carbon dioxide levels are the result of, not the cause of, One of your subscribers, a friend of mine, temperature change. I wish your article had been gave me her Tomorrow’s World magazine to read. more thorough in analyzing the different aspects of I got my Bible out and your Tomorrow’s World this complex issue. Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth together and had a blast. Your magazine was so is not a credible source, as Gore is a self-interested helpful in understanding the truth in my studying. partisan, not a scientist. Legitimate scientists still dis- agree about the causes of recent climate change. E.C., Birmingham, AL

J.A., Chicago, IL Thank you so much for your literature. I have been able to wipe out a lot of confusion and false I just want to say thank you so much for pro- data that I was brought up with. Years ago when I viding God’s wonderful Truth to a people in des- first read John 1:1 I was so astounded I just could perate need of light—like me. For so long I’ve not believe what I was reading. I was led to believe struggled to do things my way, only to find out as so many others that Genesis was the beginning. in the end that it just doesn’t work! It’s like being insane—doing the same things over and over T.T., Bay of Plenty, New Zealand

We encourage you to share with us your reactions to Tomorrow’s World. Please direct your correspondence to “Letters to the Editor” at our United States address, or send e-mail to [email protected]. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. Remember to include your name, address and daytime phone number. By Richard F. Ames

Today, Jerusalem faces ongoing violence and the threat of all-out war. But your Bible reveals that this historic city will soon be the capital of the world!

erusalem is a focal point of conflict in the Other less strident voices have also called for Middle East. Across the Arab world, millions Israel to give up at least some of its control of oppose Israel’s hold on this historic city. Jerusalem. In 1980, when Israel declared Jerusalem to Around the globe, millions of Muslims hope be Israel’s “united and eternal capital,” the Vatican theJ day will come when Jerusalem is no longer under strongly objected to that declaration. By 1984, Pope Israel’s control. John Paul II was calling for Jerusalem to have a “spe- Will their hope be fulfilled? Last March, Iranian cial internationally guaranteed status.” More recently, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad met with leaders of Pope Benedict XVI has angered many Israelis by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, and expressed refusing to condemn all Palestinian attacks against his support of its efforts to wrest control of Jerusalem Israel, and by noting that Israeli response to those from Israel. “The time of fulfillment of the godly attacks has sometimes violated international law. In promise is near. The Zionist regime [Israel] is going his Ash Wednesday message to Jerusalem’s Roman through its worst phase, and is on the verge of elimi- Catholics last February, Latin patriarch Michel Sabbah nation. The Palestinians should stay vigilant and sup- criticized Israeli policy, calling for an end to “the evil port their elected government to prepare grounds for of occupation, with all of its oppression,” and liberation of holy Quds [Jerusalem] and deliverance denounced “the Israeli soldiers who, at any time, from wicked Zionist fetters,” said Ahmadinejad. He enter our Palestinian cities, kill people, take prison- urged Hamas to persist in its efforts “for continuing ers, uproot trees, and destroy houses.” resistance and throwing out the Zionist tyrants from To understand the future of Jerusalem, we need to the holy soil of Palestine. Resistance should continue understand its past. After Rome fell, Jerusalem came until not even an inch of Palestinian soil” is under under the control of the Byzantine Empire until Israeli control, Ahmadinejad said. Muslim armies conquered the city in 638. In 1099, the

22 TWM First Crusade saw control of densely peopled city, with an esti- Savior was crucified, and where He Jerusalem pass to European mated population above 700,000. taught in the Temple—and as the invaders, who held it until 1187 About 32 percent of the city’s pop- place to which He will return to when it was taken by the Muslim ulation are Arab Muslims, who establish His kingdom, with general Saladin, whose successor often find themselves in conflict Jerusalem as world capital. al-Khamil gave the city to Emperor with the 65 percent of the popula- Frederick II of the Holy Roman tion who are Jewish. Military Movements Empire in 1228. In 1244 the Prophesied Ayyubids of Egypt took Jerusalem, Three Religions, One City and it remained under Egyptian rule until 1516, when armies of the Can Israel and the Arab states What does Bible prophecy Ottoman Empire seized the city. find peace while Jerusalem reveal will happen to Jerusalem? Four centuries later, during remains a source of conflict? Will Eventually, this ancient city will World War I in 1917, General the city ever be the capital of a be the capital of the whole Edmund Allenby commanded the Palestinian state? Will it come world. But before that time, dra- British forces that defeated the under international control? Your matic military movements will Ottoman Turks and occupied Bible shows that the conflict over affect Jerusalem. A time will Jerusalem. Britain issued the Jerusalem will be a central focus come, near the end of the age, Balfour Declaration in November of end-time events. when enemy armies will invade 1917, declaring its plan to establish Jerusalem today is a city of the Holy Land and surround the a Jewish homeland in Palestine, many faiths; one survey in 2006 city of Jerusalem. As Jesus Christ and the League of Nations ratified identified 1,200 synagogues, 150 Himself warned, “But when you the Declaration in 1922. churches and 70 mosques within see Jerusalem surrounded by The League of Nations fell its boundaries. armies, then know that its deso- apart. But in November 1947, Jews look to Jerusalem as the lation is near” (Luke 21:20). another international body—the city of the great prophets, and as These will not be just any newly created United Nations— the capital of the Kingdom of armies of the Middle East; Christ’s passed General Assembly Israel and Judah under King David prophecy shows that these will be Resolution 181, which included a and his son King Solomon. armies of the Gentiles. He contin- plan to put the area around Ancient Israel’s first and second ued: “For these are the days of Jerusalem under international temples, in Jerusalem, were the vengeance, that all things which control. A year later, Arabs and center of Jewish worship until the are written may be fulfilled. But Israelis went to war, and the Romans destroyed the city in woe to those who are pregnant and United Nations’ hopes for peace in 70AD. Today, Jews worship at the to those who are nursing babies in the region were dashed. From Western Wall, or Wailing Wall, those days! For there will be great 1947 to 1967, West Jerusalem which they believe is the only sur- distress in the land and wrath remained under Israeli control, viving element of the Second upon this people. And they will while Jordan administered the ter- Temple now accessible to Jewish fall by the edge of the sword, and ritory of East Jerusalem. worshipers. be led away captive into all In the “Six-Day War” of 1967, Jerusalem is also the third nations. And Jerusalem will be Israeli forces countered Arab most holy city of Islam, after trampled by Gentiles until the attacks and took control of East Mecca and Medina. Today, the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled” Jerusalem, uniting the whole city Mosque of Omar, also called the (vv. 22–24). under Jewish rule for the first time Dome of the Rock, dominates the Be sure to read the parallel in nearly 1,900 years. Not since Temple Mount. The Arabic term accounts in Matthew 24 and the Roman general Titus and his for the Temple Mount is al-Haram Mark. 13. As you read these, note army destroyed the city in 70AD as-Sharif, which means “The that the destruction of Jerusalem had Jerusalem been under Jewish Noble Sanctuary.” Muslims believe in 70AD was a prophetic foreshad- governance. that Muhammad ascended to heav- owing of the end-time desolation Since 1967, Jerusalem has en from there. described in these prophecies. remained under Israeli administra- Christians remember After Jerusalem falls again to tion. Yet tensions persist in this Jerusalem as the place where the Gentile control, for how long will

May–June 2007 23 the Gentiles remain in charge? The fice will be stopped, or “taken those who are in Judea flee to the answer is in the book of Revelation, away.” This obviously implies that mountains” (Matthew 24:15–16). which confirms that at the end of the sacrifices must be started, Jesus warns us to be alert to an this age, Israel will once again lose before they can be stopped! There end-time abomination of desola- control of Jerusalem. The Apostle are indeed Orthodox Jews who are tion. Just as Antiochus Epiphanes John wrote: “Then I was given a already planning to reinstate animal profaned the Temple in 167BC and reed like a measuring rod. And the sacrifices when it becomes possible prohibited the sacrifices, so a angel stood, saying, ‘Rise and meas- to do so. At the moment, however, future profane authority will pro- ure the temple of God, the altar, Jews are not allowed to publicly hibit sacrifices. What or who will and those who worship there. But worship on the Temple Mount, so it be this end-time Abomination of leave out the court which is outside remains to be seen where and when Desolation? Notice: “Let no one the temple, and do not measure it, the Jews will begin sacrificing. It deceive you by any means; for that for it has been given to the will likely take a national crisis to Day will not come unless the Gentiles. And they will tread the precipitate that event. falling away comes first, and the holy city underfoot for forty-two Notice the other key item man of sin is revealed, the son of months’” (Revelation 11:1–2). Daniel mentions, “the abomination perdition, who opposes and exalts Yes, Jerusalem will be under of desolation.” What is it? himself above all that is called God the control of the Gentiles for 42 Historically, the Greek ruler or that is worshiped, so that he sits months at the end of the age. As Antiochus Epiphanes issued a as God in the temple of God, you read through the book of decree in 167BC that prohibited showing himself that he is God” Revelation, you will see that this sacrifices in the Jerusalem Temple. (2 Thessalonians 2:3–4). period of three and one-half years The Jewish historian Josephus Yes, a great false prophet will precedes the return of Christ. Two described Antiochus’s actions: “He sit in the temple of God. You need prophets of God will witness with [Antiochus] also spoiled the tem- to be alert. You need to under- great power during that same ple, and put a stop to the constant stand the future. Do not let your- period of three and one-half years practice of offering a daily sacrifice self be deceived. (Revelation 11:3–15). These two of expiation for three years and six This false prophet will perform witnesses will contend with the months.” Josephus also explains amazing signs. Notice this descrip- Gentile force then dominating the how Antiochus profaned the altar. tion: “Then I saw another beast Middle East. “Now Antiochus was not satisfied coming up out of the earth, and he either with his unexpected taking had two horns like a lamb and Daniel’s Vision Explained the city, or with its pillage, or with spoke like a dragon. And he exer- the great slaughter he had made cises all the authority of the first The prophet Daniel received a there… he compelled the Jews to beast in his presence, and causes vision from an angel, giving us dissolve the laws of their country, the earth and those who dwell in it another perspective about and to keep their infants uncircum- to worship the first beast, whose Jerusalem’s future. When he asked cised, and to sacrifice swine’s flesh deadly wound was healed. He per- about the meaning of the vision, upon the altar” (Wars of the Jews, forms great signs, so that he even the angel told him: “Go your way, Book I, Chapter 1, Sections 1–2). makes fire come down from heav- Daniel, for the words are closed up Antiochus further profaned the en on the earth in the sight of and sealed till the time of the end” temple. He erected a statue of men. And he deceives those who (Daniel 12:9). More than 2,500 Jupiter Olympus in the temple and dwell on the earth by those signs years later, we can now understand directed everyone to worship it. which he was granted to do in the these prophecies—this is the time This abomination, referred to in sight of the beast, telling those of the end! Then: “And from the chapters 8 and 11 of Daniel’s who dwell on the earth to make an time that the daily sacrifice is taken prophecy, was a foreshadowing of image to the beast who was away, and the abomination of deso- an end-time event. This is what wounded by the sword and lived” lation is set up, there shall be one Jesus said: “Therefore when you see (Revelation 13:11–14). thousand two hundred and ninety the ‘abomination of desolation,’ While the Beast power con- days” (v. 11). God reveals that at spoken of by Daniel the prophet, trols Jerusalem, God’s two witness- the time of the end, shortly before standing in the holy place (whoever es will prophesy and prepare the the return of Christ, the daily sacri- reads, let him understand), then let way for the Messiah, the King of

24 TWM www.tomorrowsworld.org kings, to take over Jerusalem, and “Then the LORD will go forth and Isaac, and Jacob is the Messiah. the whole world. The book of fight against those nations, as He Remember the Rock of Israel? Revelation describes the work of fights in the day of battle. And in Speaking of ancient Israel, the two end-time prophets. “And I that day His feet will stand on the Apostle Paul writes, “Moreover, will give power to my two wit- Mount of Olives, which faces brethren, I do not want you to be nesses, and they will prophesy one Jerusalem on the east” (Zechariah unaware that all our fathers were thousand two hundred and sixty 14:3–4). The Mount of Olives is under the cloud, all passed days, clothed in sackcloth” just east of the Temple Mount in through the sea, all were baptized (Revelation 11:3). Jerusalem, across the Kidron into Moses in the cloud and in the The book of Revelation goes Valley. sea, all ate the same spiritual food, on to explain that at the end of Jerusalem will be prosperous and all drank the same spiritual their witness, the Beast power will and flourishing when the Messiah drink. For they drank of that overcome and kill these two rules the world from Jerusalem. spiritual Rock that followed prophets, but God will resurrect Notice this description: “And in them, and that Rock was Christ” them after three days, to the aston- that day it shall be that living (1 Corinthians 10:1–4). Yes, that ishment of their enemies. God will waters shall flow from Jerusalem, Rock was the Messiah—and He then begin His judgment by caus- half of them toward the eastern will soon return! ing a great earthquake in the city. sea and half of them toward the As Isaiah wrote: “Behold, the Seven thousand will die. Then the western sea; in both summer and Lord GOD shall come with a strong seventh trumpet will sound the winter it shall occur. And the hand, and His arm shall rule for good news of the Messiah’s return LORD shall be King over all the Him; behold, His reward is with to earth. “Then the seventh angel earth. In that day it shall be—‘The Him, and His work before Him. He sounded: And there were loud LORD is one,’ and His name one” will feed His flock like a shepherd; voices in heaven, saying, ‘The (Zechariah 14:8–9). He will gather the lambs with His kingdoms of this world have I hope you are looking forward arm, and carry them in His bosom, become the kingdoms of our Lord to that day foretold by the prophet and gently lead those who are with and of His Christ, and He shall Isaiah. “O Zion, you who bring young” (Isaiah 40:10–11). reign forever and ever!’” (v. 15). good tidings, get up into the high Yes, the Lord will save His mountain; O Jerusalem, you who people, and He will educate and Peace Is Coming bring good tidings, lift up your wisely rule over all nations. Notice voice with strength, lift it up, be not this prophecy concerning Today we live in a world of afraid; say to the cities of Judah, Jerusalem. “The word that Isaiah war and terrorism. Nations strive ‘Behold your God!’” (Isaiah 40:9). the son of Amoz saw concerning for peace. But, as the Apostle Paul Yes, as we have seen, the Judah and Jerusalem. Now it shall cautioned us, “As it is written: Messiah is coming to Jerusalem! come to pass in the latter days that ‘There is none righteous, no, not The whole world will soon under- one; there is none who under- stand, that the God of Abraham, (Continued on page 29) stands; there is none who seeks after God’” (Romans 3:10–11). He The Middle East in Prophecy continues: “Their feet are swift to shed blood; destruction and mis- ery are in their ways; and the way Jerusalem will become the capital of Christ’Christ’ss kingdom of peace they have not known. on the earth, but until then it will remain at the heart There is no fear of God before of political and religious intrigue—and worldwide war! their eyes” (vv. 15–18). How will turmoil in the Middle East affect your life— The only one who will bring wherever you live? us world peace, is the Messiah, Jesus Christ. He is coming back as King of kings, and Lord of lords, as it tells us in Revelation 19:16. Write for our FREE booklet, The Middle East in Prophecy, or download it from the Booklets section And Scripture tells us the exact of our Web site www.tomorrowsworld.org. location to which He will return:

May–June 2007 25 WatchWatch andand WarnWarn At the Precipice of Economic Collapse

Can North Americans afford to fill their gas tanks power our energy-dependent and debt-riddled nation. at $4.00 or $5.00 per gallon? If not, what will millions We are seeing the truth of the biblical maxim, “The rich do when oil prices rise? With very few exceptions rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the (such as Canada), the governments of most oil-produc- lender” (Proverbs 22:7). Americans have been living on ing nations now hate the United States, and many are borrowed money for the last few years, using the inflat- faced with the threat of war at home. When troubles ed value of real estate to take “equity” out of their come, U.S. oil supplies are certain to be hit hard. homes and fuel an ever-more-extravagant lifestyle. The political and economic situation in the Middle East can be likened to an America the Broke! open barrel of gasoline— and Iran, Iraq, Syria, Saudi The U.S. government is Arabia and the U.S. are all broke! It must borrow more playing with fire around it. than $2 billion per day to When will it explode? fund its programs at home America’s actions in the and its military operations Middle East are deepening around the globe. America’s long-held Arab resentments trade imbalance is also a against the world’s only huge problem for its econ- superpower. An all-out war omy. At the current spend- between Sunni and Shiite ing rate, North Americans Muslims in the region is also a buy $810 billion more in very real possibility; not only goods and services each would war interrupt oil pro- year than they sell overseas. The Treasury duction, it would also prevent oil tankers from safely Department’s printing presses are spewing out new cur- transporting their product through the Persian Gulf. rency at a frantic rate. These factors together put the Experts warn that as tensions escalate in the Middle nation in grave danger that inflation will soon spin out of East, the price of a barrel of the “black gold” could control. As the dollar declines, everyone buying and sell- rocket to $100.00 or higher. ing in dollars will see their purchasing power reduced. The dollar holds its value only so long as people around Trouble Brewing South of the Border the world have confidence in its strength. If you have U.S. dollar holdings, what is your level of confidence? In 2005, Mexico sent the U.S. 1.7 million barrels of Thankfully, for the time being, the nations holding oil per day. By December 2006, shipments were down U.S. IOUs have not demanded payment. They know that to 1.2 million barrels daily. Mexican oil production is doing so too quickly would destroy the value of the dol- decreasing; experts estimate that in just four years, lars they own. Just one rogue nation intent on destroying Mexico’s state-owned oil company Pemex will reduce the U.S. could start a stampede away from the dollar by its production by half. A recent Money and Markets quickly selling off its U.S. currency holdings—bringing report pointed out that since oil revenues sustain the U.S. down almost overnight in an economic crash. Mexico’s social welfare programs, a drop in those rev- However, any nation doing this would be committing enues will likely spur greater social unrest in Mexico, economic suicide, as this would also plunge the whole and increase the rate of illegal immigration to the U.S. world into the depths of another Great Depression, (March 7, 2007). bringing worldwide political and social instability—and What can the U.S. do in response? Because of their in all probability leading to World War III! Instead of economic indebtedness, Americans have largely lost the risking such chaos, many national treasuries around the ability to direct their nation’s future. That power is world are slowly diversifying out of dollars, moving into increasingly in the hands of bankers and governments gold, euros and other financial instruments they consid- overseas, controlling the money and oil needed to er more stable and secure. So far, the dollar’s decline

26 TWM has been house. War abroad and social pro- relatively grams at home are devouring U.S. slow. But resources, even while the hungry American wolf of inflation is at the door of the foreign policy average citizen struggling to pay has made the this month’s bills. nation an inter- David Walker, head of the national pariah; U.S. Government Accountability at some point, if a Office, recently warned, “We’re country with large underwater to the tune of $50 dollar holdings trillion, and that number is decides that the going up three to four trillion a year... we planet would be bet- need to start getting serious ter off without the soon to make sure U.S., it can “pull the that our future is bet- trigger” and quickly ter than our past.” bring about America’s America owes a economic destruction. significant portion of its The 400-point debt to nations it defeat- plunge in the U.S. ed in World War II. God stock market in warned that if His people early March of did not obey Him, they 2007, when would have to serve their American markets fell enemies. “I will give as plun- in sympathy with declining der your wealth, all your Asian exchanges, illustrated how national treasures, and your high economies are intertwined. International currency places of sin within all your traders had been borrowing billions of Japanese yen at borders. And you, even your- low interest rates, and investing in higher-yield mar- self, shall let go of your heritage kets around the world. When the central bank in Japan which I gave you; and I will cause you to serve your began to raise interest rates, a sell-off that began in enemies in the land which you do not know; for you Shanghai ignited panic selling around the globe. have kindled a fire in My anger which shall burn for- For years, foreign investments in the U.S. have ever” (Jeremiah 17:3–4). Just as a family that cannot propped up the “housing bubble” which made cheap pay its mortgage payment will lose its home, so too homeowner mortgages available to poorly qualified will Americans lose their land if their national debt buyers. As those investments leave American soil, we cannot be paid. can expect real estate values to fall in many U.S. com- As gas prices rise—along with the cost of food and munities. This in turn will increase the number of other necessities—due to scarcity and inflation, how foreclosures, and will slow the construction industry will the average citizen cope? Will you be prepared for by raising costs for new borrowers. Warren Buffett, what is coming? To whom will you look for your safe- perhaps America’s best-known investor, referred to ty and security—the governments of this world, or the these international money flows as “financial great Creator God who made you and loves you? weapons of mass destruction” (Worldwide Credit The U.S. and the other English-speaking nations ‘Event’ on Verge of Going Boom,” Register Guard, are losing God’s blessings and protection, as described November 14, 2006). in Deuteronomy 28. However, you can protect yourself personally from the worst effects of the coming crash. The Government Will Not Save Us God will intervene on behalf of those who are obeying Him and seeking His protection. Turn to Him, while The costs of meeting America’s ever-increasing there is still time! wants and needs is driving the nation to the poor- —Don Davis

May–June 2007 27 The Tomb of Jesus?

Did you watch The Lost Tomb of Jesus—the However, that is not how the exchange recent Discovery Channel special produced by between Paul and Agrippa really happened; you filmmakers James Cameron (of Titanic fame) and can read for yourself how Luke, the first century Simcha Jacobovici? It caused quite a stir when it Church historian, recorded it in Acts 26:22–32. aired, exploiting society’s current fascination Even in the white-hot heat of terrible first century with the Da Vinci Code spirit of “creative history.” persecution, when so many were desperate to The show points us to a tomb near Jerusalem, stamp the young Church out, no one was able to which was thought to be uninteresting archaeolog- produce a body—let alone an entire family tomb— ically when it was discovered in 1980. The tomb to refute the Christians’ persistent claim of Jesus’ contained ossuaries (coffins, or “bone boxes”) resurrection. No one! No matter how passionate- bearing a few names shared by Jesus’ family mem- ly the Church’s enemies searched, no matter how bers—and one labeled “Jesus [Yeshua] son of viciously they interrogated the many Christians Joseph.” The filmmakers say this is the tomb of they arrested—there was simply no body to be Jesus’ family, and that He was buried there—defi- found to demonstrate the Christians’ “lie.” nitely not resurrected from the dead. Paul and the other apostles would have become What are we to make of such a claim? Well, laughingstocks if Jesus’ tomb and body could have for starters, scholars and other experts quickly been produced. Instead, history regards them as pointed out that the show’s assemblage and men who “turned the world upside down” (Acts interpretation of the facts represented bad sci- 17:6), who changed the course of history forever. ence and pseudo-archaeology. Even the proba- Is it reasonable to believe that the religious bility calculations were questionably applied. and political authorities of Jesus’ time could not— In fact, the program’s loose science and slip- with all the power and resources at their disposal— shod “archaeology” aside, the arguments that discover the location of a family tomb located in have proven the truth of Christianity for cen- the very area from which this disruptive new mes- turies are as strong as ever, and suffered not sage was spreading? Are we to believe that Jesus’ even a dent from this stunt. original followers voluntarily suffered unimaginable Imagine the scene. A hush spreads across the torments—even violent deaths—to proclaim the court of King Agrippa, as the Apostle Paul winds message of the risen Christ if they knew the mes- down his defense, sage was a lie? discussing the The men who produced The Lost crucifixion and Tomb of Jesus want you to believe resurrection of so—but believing their scenario Jesus Christ: requires far more faith than a bad-sci- “This thing was ence-but-ripping-yarn television spe- not done in a cor- cial deserves. ner. King Agrippa, The recipe for The Lost Tomb of do you believe Jesus consists of a pinch of fact, sur- the prophets? I rounded by a heaping cup of fanciful know that you do storytelling. Yet not even the truth believe.” Agrippa within that pinch casts any doubt on then says to Paul, “Very passionately delivered, the truth that has defeated all challengers for near- Paul, but your tale is a fantasy. The tomb of this ly two millennia: the tomb of Jesus Christ was man you say rose from the dead is there, this empty. He is risen, and He lives today. day, outside Jerusalem! His bones rest alongside If you are interested in really proving the those of his mother and the rest of his family. truth of the Bible, please request our free book- Why you persist in this horrible and perverse lie let The Bible: Fact or Fiction? Do not take any- to your own destruction is beyond me! Festus is one’s word for it—prove it for yourself! right: you truly are mad!” —Wallace Smith

28 TWM The Future of Jerusalem the Kingdom of God. This world- streets of Jerusalem, each one with (Continued from page 25) ruling kingdom will be governed his staff in his hand because of by the Messiah, the King of kings, great age. The streets of the city the mountain of the Lord’s house Jesus Christ! That is the good shall be full of boys and girls play- shall be established on the top of news we all look forward to. I ing in its streets’” (Zechariah the mountains, and shall be exalt- hope that you are looking forward 8:3–5). ed above the hills; and all nations to that time of world peace! I The city of Jerusalem will shall flow to it” (Isaiah 2:1–2). hope that you are yearning for the finally live up to its name, “City of Kingdom to come! I hope you are Peace,” because the Messiah, Jesus Peaceful World praying for the Kingdom to come, Christ will actually dwell there. Government Ahead as we are taught to pray in Only then will the whole world Matthew 6:10! begin to experience genuine peace. Mountains are a biblical sym- Notice this beautiful descrip- Jerusalem will be the capital of bol for a kingdom or government. tion of future life in Jerusalem: planet earth, and you can have a Isaiah states plainly that the Lord’s “Thus says the LORD: ‘I will return part in the glorious Kingdom kingdom will be established in to Zion, and dwell in the midst of ruled from that capital. Jerusalem. All nations will submit Jerusalem. Jerusalem shall be Tomorrow’s world will be here to the new world government. called the City of Truth, The sooner than you realize. As events This will not be government in Mountain of the LORD of hosts, move toward this wonderful cli- the hands of selfish human beings. The Holy Mountain.’ Thus says max, be sure you are watching The new government will be a the LORD of hosts: ‘Old men and world news in the light of Bible world-ruling divine Kingdom— old women shall again sit in the prophecy!

Religion Under Fire! Numerous prophecies also speak of a revival of (Continued from page 13) religious activity at the end of the age. The Apostle Paul foresaw the appearance of a prominent end- that we do not need moral guidelines from the Bible, time religious figure who will deceive millions with and that “our own search for happiness” is sufficient miracles (2 Thessalonians 2). The prophet Isaiah guide for morality (Letter to a Christian Nation, pp. predicted that this person would promote an ecu- 23–25). The Apostle Peter warned that “scoffers will menical movement of “daughter” churches back to come in the last days, walking according to their own a mother church which claims to be the only true lusts, and saying, ‘Where is the promise of His com- church (Isaiah 47:1–9). The book of Revelation ing?’” (2 Peter 3:3–4). Dawkins scoffs at the idea of indicates that this prominent religious figure will God. Harris ridicules the idea of the virgin birth and insert itself into world politics and promote the the resurrection of Jesus and then makes the interest- revival of a European power with roots that go back ing observation, “If the basic tenets of Christianity are to the Roman Empire and that this revival will have true, then there are some very grim surprises in store global implications (Revelation 13; 17; 18). All for nonbelievers like myself” (Letter to a Christian these events will occur at a time when unbelievers Nation, p. 5). Today, in our “enlightened” and “intel- are launching vicious attacks against God and the lectually sophisticated” world, many call homosexual- Bible. Dawkins dismisses the book of Revelation, of ity and same-sex marriages “good” and ridicule anyone course, calling it “one of the weirdest books in the who promotes or follows biblical morality. Yet the Bible Bible” and asserting that the Apostle John wrote it warns, “Woe to those who call evil good, and good while he was “on acid” (Dawkins, pp. 257–258). evil… Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes… But the time is soon coming when Dawkins’ attacks because they have rejected the law of the LORD of will be seen for what they are, and the Bible will be hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of recognized as the source of truth that explains what Israel. Therefore the anger of the LORD is aroused is happening in our world and what will happen in against His people” (Isaiah 5:20–25). The Bible clear- our future. If you read your Bible, you will continue ly reveals that a time of judgment is coming to see how true biblical religion is relevant and (Revelation 11:15–18)—Dawkins, Harris and their prophetically significant in ways that few realize collaborators have reason to be concerned! today!

May–June 2007 29 A Vital “Key” to Spiritual Growth they entered into a covenant to seek the LORD God of (Continued from page 2) their fathers with all their heart and with all their soul” (v. 12). truth” (John 4:24). Jesus Christ also stated, The Bible describes how Uzziah was blessed when “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth” he walked with God. “He sought God in the days of (John 17:17). Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of So, to worship the true God—the God who inspired God; and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him the Bible—we must zealously study the Bible. We must prosper” (2 Chronicles 26:5). “feed” on Christ by saturating our minds and hearts Again, God’s word helps us see how and why these with God’s word—by constantly reading with an open righteous kings were blessed. “Thus Hezekiah did mind, meditating on and honestly “seeking” God’s will throughout all Judah, and he did what was good and as revealed in His inspired Scripture. Then we will right and true before the LORD his God. And in every learn how to walk with God, how to pray to God and work that he began in the service of the house of God, how to “fellowship” with God. Otherwise, like most of in the law and in the commandment, to seek his God, the billions of confused people in this world, we will he did it with all his heart. So he prospered” (2 end up serving God with our human imagination—in Chronicles 31:20–21). the wrong way—perhaps by following a false religion or The lesson is that if we truly want to do the will simply letting our human imagination tell us what to of the great God—who created us and who gives us do. Yet the Bible strictly warns us not to do that! life and breath—we should zealously “seek” Him “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end with all our hearts. We should do this by urgently is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:12; 16:25). making time to focus on God’s will by studying What may seem like the right way of life may be what He has revealed in the Bible, then meditating directly contrary to the will of our Creator! So we carefully on what the Bible says His will truly is— must all be willing to study, to meditate and to “prove then fervently praying to our Father in heaven for all things”—to compare any and all of our ideas and the strength and understanding to know and do His philosophies with what God tells us in the inspired will. Finally, we must act on His will, and “walk with pages of the Bible! Then we can truly “pour out our God”—as did Abraham, David, Jesus and the many hearts” to God in fervent and continual prayer! We can others whom God sets for us as examples in inspired then, in absolute faith, ask Him to guide our lives, lead Scripture. us and use us in His service—and bring us into His Then, absolutely, God will hear us and answer us if everlasting Kingdom! we respond to His will, as He has done for those before This desire must be first in our minds and in our us. Remember, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, lives, as expressed by the actions we take. As Jesus today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). said, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His right- For, as God promised His people when they were eousness, and all these things shall be added to you” in captivity in Babylon, “I know the thoughts that I (Matthew 6:33). think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and Many Old Testament scriptures show us how God not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you truly blessed all the men and women who put forth the will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will lis- effort to “seek” Him. Notice: “Now the Spirit of God ten to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when came upon Azariah the son of Oded. And he went out you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah to meet Asa, and said to him: ‘Hear me, Asa, and all 29:11–13). Judah and Benjamin. The LORD is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you’” (2 Chronicles 15:1–2). How did they respond? “Then

UNITED STATES: P.O. BOX 3810 • CHARLOTTE, NC 28227-8010 • www.tomorrowsworld.org • PHONE: (704) 844-1970. AUSTRALASIA: PO BOX 300 • CLARENDON, SA 5157, AUSTRALIA • PHONE: (61) 8-8383-6288 • FAX: (61) 8-8127-9667 CANADA: P.O. BOX 409 • MISSISSAUGA, ON L5M 2B9 • PHONE: (905) 814-1094 • FAX: (905) 814-7659 NEW ZEALAND: P.O. BOX 2767 • AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND • PHONE/FAX: (09) 268 8985 PHILIPPINES: PO BOX 492 • ARANETA CENTER POST OFFICE • 1135 QUEZON CITY, METRO MANILA, PHILIPPINES • PHONE: (63) 2-723-0499 • FAX: (63) 2-414-5349 SOUTH AFRICA: PRIVATE BAG X7 • HATFIELD, PRETORIA, 0028 • PHONE: (27) 58-622-1424 • FAX: (27) 58-623-1303. • UNITED KINGDOM: BM Box 2345 • LONDON, WC1N 3XX • PHONE/FAX: 44 (0) 844-800-9322

30 TWM IL, Peoria: Insight, Ch 20, SUN 7:30 pm PA, Philadelphia: Time Warner—Ch 5, THUR 9:00 pm; SUN 5:30 pm INTERNATIONAL: IN, Bloomington: CATS—Ch 3, MON 5:30 pm PA, Sayre: Time Warner—Ch 18, MON-FRI 5:00 pm IIN,N, Fort Wayne: CComcast—Chomcast—Ch 57, MON 3:30 pm PPA,A, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre: FFOX56OX56 & WOLF—Multi Channels, —AUSTRALIA IN, Indianapolis: Comcast—Ch 72, SUN 7:00 pm WED 5:30 am NSW, Sydney: TVS—Ch 31, SUN 6:00 am KS, Chanute: Cablevision—Ch 5, SUN 7:30 am; TUE 5:30 pm RI, Providence: WPXQ—Ch 69, MON 11:30 am QLD,QLD, Brisbane: BrizBriz 31-Ch 31, SUN 9:00 am KKY,Y, Latonia: PPEGEG 17—Ch 17, WED 5:30 pm; THUR 12:00 am TTN,N, Chattanooga: WWDEF—ChDEF—Ch 12, SUN 8:30 am SA, Adelaide: Access—Ch 31, SUN 11:00 am KY, Lexington: Ch 14, Check Local Listing TN, Knoxville: WVLT—Ch 8, SUN 6:30 am VIC, Melbourne: MCTC—Ch 31, SUN 11:30 pm KY, Louisville: Insight—Ch 2, SAT 12:00 am TN, Knoxville: WVLR—Ch 48, SUN 7:30 am WWA,A, Perth: AAccessccess 31—Ch 31, SUN 9:30 am LLA,A, Baton Rouge: KKZUP—ChZUP—Ch 44, SUN 8:00 am TTN,N, La Follette: WWLAF—ChLAF—Ch 12, TUE 10:30 pm —BARBADOS LA, Lafayette: KATC—Ch 3, SUN 9:00 am TN, Memphis: WPTY—Ch 24, SAT 6:30 am St. Michael: CBC—Ch 8, SUN 9:30 am LA, New Orleans: WHNO—Ch 20, SUN 8:30 am TN, Nashville: WZTV—Ch 17, SUN 6:30 am —ICELAND: LLA,A, Shreveport: KKSHV—ChSHV—Ch 45, SUN 8:30 am TTX,X, Austin: CCommunityommunity Access—Ch 11, WED 7:00 pm Reykjavik: Gospel Channel—SUN 7:00 am MA, Cambridge: CCTV—CH 22, FRI 11:00 am; SUN 3:00 pm, TX, Bryan: KYLE—Ch 44, SUN 7:00 am SSatellites:atellites: EEurobird—Churobird—Ch 770, Hotbird 6, Thor II WED 9:00 am TX, Dallas: Community Television—Ch 14b, SAT 1:00 pm; —JAMAICA MA, Everett: Community TV—Ch 3, TUE 1:00 pm SUN 11:00 am Kingston: TVJ—Ch 7, 9, 11 & 13, SUN 9:00 am MA, Malden: Access TV—Ch 3, SUN 11:00 am TX, Dallas: KFWD—Ch 52, SUN 8:00 am —NEW ZEALAND MD, Baltimore: Community Media—Ch 75, SUN 9:00 am TX, Houston: TVMAX—Cable, SUN 9:00 am Nationwide: PRIME TELEVISION—SUN 8:00 am MD, Rockville: Community TV—Ch 19, SAT 5:30 pm TX, Lufkin: KTRE—Ch 9, SUN 6:30 am —PHILIPPINES MD, Westminster: Adelphia—Ch 19, THUR & FRI 10:00 am TX, Midland: KMID—Ch 2, SUN 9:00 am Borongan: Borongan Cable—Ch 4, SAT 3:00 pm ME, A Auburn:uburn: GFTV—Ch 11, S SATAT 9:00 am; SUN 8:00 pm TX, T Temple:emple: KPLE—Ch 31/45, S SUNUN 7:30 pm Naga City: PBN—Ch 5, SUN 8:00 am ME, Brunswick: Cable 7—Ch 7, SAT 8:30 am; SUN 6:30 am TX, Tyler: KLTV—Ch 7, SUN 6:30 am —SOUTH—SOUTH AFRICA MI, Detroit: Comcast—Ch-Multi SUN 7:30 am TX, Waco: KWKT—Ch 44, SUN 7:00 am Randburg: CSN—SUN 5:30 pm MI, Kalamazoo: CACTV—Ch 9, 20-21, 95, SAT 11:30 am; SUN 11:30 am UT, Salt Lake City: Comcast—Ch 95, SUN 8:00 am —TTRINIDADRINIDAD & TOBAGO MI, Portage: Access—Ch 19, 20, FRI 10:30 am, TUE 2:00 pm VA, Charlottesville: Adelphia—Ch 13, MON 1:00 pm & 6:30 pm Trinidad, Port of Spain: CCN—Ch 6, SAT 3:30 pm MO, Kansas City: Time Warner—Ch 4, SUN 10:00 pm VA, Chesterfield: Comcast—Ch 6, THUR 6:30 pm —UNITED KINGDOM AND NW EUROPE MO, Springfield: KSPR—Ch 33, SUN 8:30 am VA, Fairfax: FPA—Ch 10, MON 12:00 pm United Kindom: WORD Network-SKY-TV—Ch 771, FRI 6:30 am MO, St. Charles: Charter—Ch 47, SUN 9:30 am & 9:00 pm VA, Roanoke: WDRL—Ch 24/54, SUN 7:00 am The Gospel Channel: Sky—Ch 770, FRIFRI 4:30 pm MO, St. Louis: Double Helix—Ch 22, MON 4:00 pm VA, Virginia Beach: Cox—Ch 99 & 74, SAT 8:30 am —EUROPE,—EUROPE, NORTH AFRICA, MIDDLE EAST: MS,MS,J Jackson:ackson: TimeTime WWarner—Charner—Ch 18, SUN 10:00 am; WED 4:00 pm VTVT,, Bennington: CACAT—ChT—Ch 15, WED 9:30 am & 12:00 am; EurEurope, Nor Northth Africa, M Middleiddle East: Hotbird 6 FRI 6:30 am UTC MS,MS, Jackson: WAPT—Ch 16, SUNSUN 8:30 am THURTHUR 12:00 am & 9:30 pm; SATSAT 8:00 am & 4:30 pm & 4:30 pm UTC NC, Burlington: Time Warner—Ch 5/10, SUN 9:00 pm VT, Burlington: Community Access—Ch 15, THUR 11:30 am & NC,NC, Charlotte: WAXN—ChWAXN—Ch 64, SUN 7:00 am FRIFRI 12:00 PM NCNC, Charharlotte:lotte: INSP—ChINSP—Ch Multi, SAT 1:00 am VTVT, Montpelierontpelier:: CommunityCommunity Access—Ch 15, TUE 8:30 pm; UNITED STSTATES:ATES: NC, Charlotte: WHKY—Ch 14/19, MON 7:30 pm WED 2:30 pm NCNC,, Gr Greensboro:eensboro: GCTV—Ch 8, SA SATT 8:00 pm; MON 8:30 pm VTVT,, Richmond: Community TV—Ch 15, SUN 6:00 am, AK, Anchorage: GCI—Ch 18, SA SATT 10:00 pm NCNC,, Wilmington: Time WWarner—Charner—Ch 4, WED 10:00 pm 9:00 am, 12:30 pm, 7:00 pm; MON 7:00 am, 1:00 pm AL, Birmingham: Bright House—Ch 4, TUE 2:30 pm NE, Omaha: KPTM—Ch 42, SUN 8:00 am VT, Springfield: SAPA TV—Ch 8, THUR 10:00 pm; MON 12:00 pm AL, Troy/Montgomery: WRJM—Ch 67, SUN 6:30 am NH, Hanover: CACATV—ChTV—Ch 6, SUN 6:00 pm; WWA,A, Everett: Comcast—Ch 77, WED 4:30 pm AR, Fayetteville:Fayetteville: KNWA—ChKNWA—Ch 51, SUNSUN 6:30 am MON 12:00 am & 6:00 am & 12:00 pm; THUR 7:00 pm; WA,WA, Kennewick:Kennewick: Charter—ChCharter—Ch 13/99, SUN 8:00 pm; TUE 8:00 pm AR, Faayetteville:yetteville: Access TV—Ch 8, SUN 8:30 pm FRI 1:00 am & 7:00 am & 1:00 pm WA, Seattle: TCI—Ch 29, SUN 9:00 am AR, Fort Smith: KFTA—Ch 24, SUN 6:30 am NJ, East Windsor:Windsor: Comcast—Ch 27, WED 5:30 pm WA,WA, Seattle: Comcast—Ch 17, THUR 6:30 am AR, Little Rock: KASN—Ch 38, SUN 9:30 am NJ, Camden: Comcast—Ch 19, SUN 8:00 am WA, Spokane: AT&T—Ch 14, MON 8:00 pm AZ, Lak Lakee HaHavasuvasu City: KLHU—Ch 45, SUN 10:30 am NJ, Oakland: Cablevision—Ch 76, SUN 7:00 am & 11:30 am; 7:00 pm WA, Vancouver: FVCT—Ch 11, SUN 11:30 am AZ, Phoenix: KAZT—Multi, SUN 11:30 am NJ, T Trenton:renton: Comcast—Ch 16, MON 11:00 pm WI, W Wausau:ausau: CharCharter—Chter—Ch 10, THUR 9:00 pm; FRI 7:30 am AZ, Prescott: Cable—Ch 13, SAT 5:30 pm; SUN 6:30 am NM, Albuquer Albuquerque:que: CCC27—Ch 27, SUN 6:30 pm WYWY,, Casper Casper:: KTWKTWO—ChO—Ch 2, SUN 10:00 am AZ, Tucson:Tucson: Access—Ch 73, SATSAT 11:30 am; SUN 9:30 am NM, Rio Rancho: Cable One—Ch 51, THUR 7:00 pm WY,WY, Cheyenne:Cheyenne: KLWY—ChKLWY—Ch 27, SUN 10:00 am CA,CA, Eureka:Eureka: Sudden Link—Ch 12, SUN 8:00 pm NV, Carson City: SNCAT—Ch 10, SUN 6:00 pm CA,CA, Garden Grove: Time Warner—ChWarner—Ch 6, SUN 9:30 am & 6:30 pm NV,NV, Gardnerville:Gardnerville: Community Access—Ch 16, SATSAT 4:30 am CCA,A, Glendora: Adelphia—Ch 3/99, TUE 7:00 pm & 4:30 pm; SUN 4:30 am & 4:30 pm RADIO STATIONS: CA,CA, Hollywood:Hollywood: Comcast—Ch 24 & 27, SUN 8:00 am & 11:00 am NV,NV, Reno/Sparks: SNCAT—ChSNCAT—Ch 30/16, FRI 6:30 am CCA,A, Los Angeles: Time WWarner—Charner—Ch 101, SUN 8:00 am NYNY,, Alban Albany:y: Time WWarner—Charner—Ch 18, THUR 5:00 pm Argentina,Argentina, Bahia Blanca: Vida—107.7 FM, MON 8:00 pm; CCA,A, Livermore: Comcast—Ch 26, THUR 2:30 pm NY,NY, Batavia:Batavia: Time Warner—ChWarner—Ch 19, TUE 5:30 pm THUR 12:00 pm; SA SATT 2:00 pm CA, Modesto: Community Media—Ch 8, TUETUE 5:00 pm; FRI 1:30 pm NYNY,, Binghamton: Time WWarner—Charner—Ch 4, FRI 5:00 pm Argentina,Argentina, Buenos Aires:Aires: Radio General San Martin—610Martin—610 AM, CA, North Orange County: Adelphia—Ch 95/97/98m SUN 3:30 pm NYNY,, Brookhaven: Cablevision—Ch 20, FRI 3:30 am SUN 10:00 am CA, Sacramento: RCCTV—Ch 96, MON 5:30 pm NY,NY, Brooklyn: BCAT—ChBCAT—Ch 35/68, SUN 7:30 pm Chile, Santiago: Radio Arcolris—105.3 FM, MON, WED, FRI at CA, San Diego: Cox—Ch 18 & 23, THUR 6:00 pm NY, Buffalo: Adelphia—Ch 20, THUR 10:30 am 12:00 am & 8:00 pm CCA,A, San DieDiego:go: Time WWarner—Charner—Ch 19, SUN 6:00 pm NY, Canandaigua: FLTV—Ch 12, SUN 11:00 am Costa Rica, San Jose: Radio La Gigante—800 AM, SUN 8:00 am CA, San Francisco: Access TV—Ch 29, SUN 9:30 am NY, Elmira & Corning: Time Warner—Ch 1, SUN 8:00 am Guadeloupe: Kilti FM—99.4 FM, MON-FRI 6:15 am CA, San Jose: Community TV—Ch 15A, SAT 11:30 pm NY, Fairport: FACT—Ch 15, SUN 7:30 pm Guyana, Georgetown:Georgetown: NCN—560 AM, TUE 7:30 pm CA,CA, Sonora: TCCCA—Ch 8, SUN 8:00 pm NY,NY, Hauppauge: Cablevision—Ch 20, FRI 3:30 am Martinique: Radio Banlieue-Relax—103.4 FM, SUN 6:15 am CCA,A, T Turlock:urlock: CharCharter—Chter—Ch 2, MON 8:00 pm NYNY,, Ir Irondequoit:ondequoit: ICAICAT—ChT—Ch 15, SUN 7:30 pm; Mexico, Monterrey: XEMR-1140 AM SAT 4:00 am; SUN 11:00 am CT, Enfield: Comcast—Ch 15, THUR 6:30 pm WED 11:30 am & 7:30 pm PPeru,eru, Lima: Radio Santa Anita-105.1 FM, SUN 9:00 am, MON-SA MON-SATT 9:00 pm CT, Naugatuck:Naugatuck: Tele-Media—Ch 10, TUE 9:30 pm NY,NY, Ithaca: Pegasys—ChPegasys—Ch 13, SATSAT 8:00 pm; SUN 7:30 am & 1:30 pm Philippines, Cebu City: DYLA—909DYLA—909 AM, SUN 6:00 am FL, Davie: Comcast—Ch 76, SUN 8:00 am NY, Manhattan: MNN—Ch 57/85, FRI 11:00 am Philippines, Davao City: DXUM—See Local Listing FL, Ft. Lauderdale: Comcast—Ch 76, SUN 8:30 am NYNY,, Niagara Falls: Community TV—Ch 20, MON 6:00 am Philippines, Manila: DWBL—1242 AM, THUR 10:30 pm; FL, Gainesville: CoCox—Chx—Ch 55, SUN 8:00 pm NY, Oneida: Community Access—Ch 99, THUR 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm SUN 3:30 pm FL, Hialeah/Coral Gables:Gables: Comcast—Ch 19, SUN 7:30 pm NY, Oneonta: Time Warner—ChWarner—Ch 23, WED 8:30 pm Philippines, Ozamiz City: DXOC—1494 AM, SUN 5:00 am FL, Key West: Comcast—Ch 19, SUN 8:30 am NY, Queens: QPTV—Ch 34/35, SAT 3:30 pm; TUE 9:30 pm Sri Lanka, Columbo: TNL Radio Networks—101.7 FM FL, Jacksonville: WTEV—Ch 47, SUN 7:00 am NY, Rochester: Community TV—Ch 15, SAT 6:30 am; SUN 9:30 am USA, La Follette, TN: WLAF—1450 AM, SAT 3:00 pm FL, Mar Margate/Sunrise/Plantation:gate/Sunrise/Plantation: Comcast—Ch 76, SUN 7:00 pm NYNY,, Rockland County: Cablevision—Ch 76, SA SATT 12:30 pm FL, Miramar: Comcast—Ch 19&76 SUN 7:30 am NY, Staten Island: CTV—Ch 34, SUN 8:00 pm; TUE 12:00 pm FL, NorthNorth Dade: Comcast—Ch 19, SUN 7:30 am NY,NY, Syracuse: Community Access—Ch 98, SUN 7:30 pm FL, Ocala: Cox—Ch 71, SUN 10:00 am NY, Utica: Adelphia—Ch 3, MON 9:00 pm • Nationwide Cable FL, Orlando: Bright House—Ch 21, SAT 9:30 pm NYNY,, Wappingers Falls: Cablevision—Ch 21, FRI 10:00 pm FL, P Pensacola:ensacola: WPWPAN—ChAN—Ch 53, THUR 6:30 pm NY,NY, Watertown:Watertown: Time Warner—ChWarner—Ch 99, SUN 6:00 pm; MON 7:00 pm; WGN—SUN 6:00 am ET FL, Pompano:Pompano: Comcast—Ch 76, SUN 7:30 pm TUE 7:00 pm FL, South Broward: Comcast—Ch 79, SUN 8:00 am NY, Webster: WCA—Ch 12, SUN 11:00 am WORD—FRI 1:30 am ET FL, Tampa: WTTA—Ch 38, SUN 8:00 am NY, West Seneca: Adelphia—Ch 20, MON 11:35 pm GA, Atlanta: AIB—CableAIB—Cable,, THUR 9:30 pm; SAT 1:30 am NYNY,, W Woodbury:oodbury: Cablevision—Ch 115, SUN 6:30 am GA, Atlanta: PTV—Ch 24, FRI 2:00 pm OH, Centerville: MVCC—Ch 23, FRI 2:30 pm • DirecTV GA, Savannah:Savannah: Comcast—Ch 7, SATSAT 8:30 am OH, Cincinnati:Cincinnati: Media Bridges—Ch 8 & 24, SUN 6:30 pm; GA, Macon: Cox Cable—Ch 18, FRI 2:00 pm, SUN 6:00 pm; TUE 7:30 am TUE 12:30 pm WGN—CH 307, SUN 6:00 am ET IA, Davenport: Mediacom—Ch 19, MON 4:30 pm; WED 8:30 am OH, Dayton: DSTV—Ch 12, SAT 3:30 AM; TUE 11:00 am IA, Des Moines: Mediacom—Ch 15, SA SATT 10:00 am; OH, Fairborn:Fairborn: CAC—Ch 23, TUE 12:00 pm WORD—CH 373, FRI 1:30 am ET SUN 11:00 am OK, Tulsa:Tulsa: KMYT—Ch 41, SATSAT 12:30 am IA, Dubuque: MediaCom—Ch 16, THUR 8:00 pm; OR, Ashland: RVTV—CH 15/31/95, SUN 10:00 pm MON 3:30 pm & 7:30 pm; TUE 10:00 am; WED 2:00 pm OR, P Portland:ortland: MCTV—CH 11, SUN 12:30 pm • Canada IDID,, Boise: TVTV—Ch 11, SUN 9:30 pm; MON 11:30 am OR, Willamette FFalls:alls: WFTV—CH 23, FRI 4:00 pm; SA SATT 8:00 am; ID, Pocatello: Vision—Ch 12, WED 2:30 pm; FRI 1:00 pm SUN 8:00 am; WED 4:00 pm CTV—WED 5:00 am local time in most areas* IL, Bloomington: Insight—Ch 20, SUN 1:00 pm; PA, Allentown:Allentown: TV2—Ch 50, FRI 4:30 pm (*4:30 am on CFTO, CIVT, CKT; 5:30 am on CFQC) MON 10:00 pm PA, Altoon: Atlantic Broadband—Ch 9, SUN 9:30 am IL, Chicago: WGN—Ch 9, SUN 5:00 am PA, Johnstown: Atlantic Broadband—Ch 9, MON 10:00 pm VISION—SUN 5:30 pm ET; MON–FRI 3:00 am ET IL, Moline: MediaCom—Ch 19, MON 4:30 pm PA, Lehighton: BRCTV—Ch 13, SUN 10:30 am WGN: SUN 6:00 am ET WORD: FRI 1:30 am ET VISION,VISION, Canada: SUN 5:30 pm ET; MON–FRI 3:00 am ET CTV: WED 5:00 am (4:30 am on CFTO, CIVT, CKT; 5:30 am on CFQC) NEW U.S.A. TELEVISION STATIONS: CA,CA, Los Angeles: KDOCKDOC—CH—CH 56, SUNSUN 6:30 am CA, San Diego: Cox Media—CH 4, SUN 8:30 am IL, Chicago: WEDE—CH 34, MON-FRI 6:00 am MA, Boston: WWBPXBPX—C—CHH 68, WWEDED 7:00 am MO, St. Louis: WRBU—CH 46, SUN 7:30 am NJ, Audubon: Comcast—CH 2, SSUNUN 6:30 pm NJ, Cape May: Comcast—CH 9, SUN 11:00 am SSC,C, MMyrtleyrtle BeacBeach:h: TTimeime WWarnerarner—C—CHH 447,7, SSUNUN 6:30 pm AUSTRALIAUSTRALIA SA, Adelaide: Access—CH 31, SUN 11:00 am