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Dear Members, Co-Workers and Friends:

We are living in a world of awesome progress and accomplishments, but we are at the same time confronted with violence, misery, pain, suffering, appalling evil and awful squalor. Decades ago, Herbert W. Armstrong, the late human leader of the Church of God, used expressions like these to convey an incredible paradox—that man, capable of sending a human being to the moon and bringing him back safely to this earth, is seemingly unable to solve his most fundamental problems on his planet. Since Mr. Armstrong died in 1986, the magnitude of this paradox has even increased at least one thousand times over.

Mr. Armstrong spoke repeatedly about the two trees in the Garden of Eden—the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, and the Tree of Life. These trees, even though real, were of symbolic significance. They represented the wisdom of this world and the mysterious hidden knowledge of God. The first man chose to eat from the forbidden fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, thereby rejecting and losing the possibility to eat from the Tree of Life. He elected to decide for himself what seemed to be right in his own eyes, and he lost thereby the privilege of accepting from God the knowledge of the true, eternal and never-changing values of the right way of life. Man acquired human wisdom—including the wisdom of relying on himself and of creating terrible weapons of mass destruction; but he could not and does not understand the way to peace, happiness, prosperity and reliance on God (Romans 3:10-18), as this is spiritual wisdom which only God can grant (1 Corinthians 2:7-12).

Throughout the times of human existence, God specifically called certain ones out of this man-made and Satan-inspired civilization to give them the opportunity to understand and accept and live what is truly right, and to reject what is so terribly wrong. These are the “called-out-ones”—those whom God chose out of this world and placed in the body of Christ—the spiritual organization which is the Church of God. These are the ones who conduct themselves as ambassadors for Christ—who are citizens of a better world to come, whose names are recorded in God’s heavenly books, who live a different lifestyle and who show the world what could have been—and what will be, once Christ rules this earth with love, righteousness and justice, as well as with a rod of iron reserved for those who reject peace and happiness, while craving for and delighting in dissension, rebellion, war and destruction.

And still, having grown up in this world and living in this world, the “called-out-ones” must constantly be on guard to become and remain faithful. They must consistently reject the tempting and enticing influences of this present evil age (Galatians 1:4) and the god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4)—that serpent of old, called Satan the Devil, who deceives the whole world (Revelation 12:9). They must persistently conquer their old carnal nature, which is unwilling and unable to submit to God and His timeless Law (Romans 8:7). They must grow in God’s faith and their reliance on Him, while overcoming self-reliance and their passion and lust for self-aggrandizement. It is (and must be) a constant struggle—truly a battle that begins in their minds. This spiritual warfare can only be won if they are clothed with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17)—and not only that, but also, if God the Father and Jesus Christ live, reside and dwell in them through the Holy Spirit (John 14:23). Where Adam and Eve failed, God’s disciples must succeed. While the first man and his wife ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil and were barred from access to the Tree of Life, God’s followers today must decide to continuously eat from the Tree of Life, while barring for themselves any access to the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

God’s true followers must not be “Christian” in name only, while denying God by their works. But as truly converted and obedient Christians, they are learning to place every thought into captivity to the obedience of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5)—always willing to submit their will to the Will of God. They realize that man’s ways are not God’s ways, even if they think they are right. They accept the fact that God’s ways, deeds and thoughts are so much higher than the words, deeds and thoughts of man (Isaiah 55:8-9). To the degree that they subject themselves under God’s wise hands, they agree more and more that God works out His plan for them in their lives (Proverbs 20:24), even though they might have other plans, ideas and desires (Proverbs 16:9). In retrospect, they will understand that God’s Way was indeed the right one—the only one that really brought and brings lasting success and accomplishment.

Sometimes, they don’t quite see it yet. Sometimes, they think they know it better. Sometimes, they feel there must be a different way—an easier alternative. But in time, they will realize, regardless of the odds and the unpleasant direction that their life may be taking, that God is their Father who knows best and who loves them and wants them in His Kingdom—and that for all eternity.

You and I are those special people whom God has called today, to understand and practice His Truth. With our calling comes responsibility. We have been called to make right choices. There is one of Mr. Armstrong’s many articles which I remember very well. It is called, “Let God Fight Your Battles.” We all must learn to do that. Then, our victory is assured.

Yes, we must go through many tribulations or trials to enter the Kingdom of God (Acts 14:22). It is not an easy way, and we must count the cost before we decide to commit. But let’s not focus too much on the aspect of the trials. Rather, let’s think of what we are to enter—the Kingdom of God. THAT is something to reflect on! To be in God’s Kingdom—in His ruling Family. To be a glorified Spirit being, as the Father and the Son are Spirit beings, full of power and glory and might. To be immortal and eternal, unable to die or to get sick! To be sinless, immune to sin. To be able to always choose the right way. To never again have to fight against and to conquer the temptations of sin, society or self. To be perfect. To be God’s child—and a brother or sister of Jesus Christ. To be able to help others—including our loved ones—to choose the right way. To heal all sicknesses and diseases—not to allow sickness anymore. To enforce true peace, prosperity, happiness and gladness on this earth… and so much more…

If we concentrate on these things, the God of peace will be with us (Philippians 4:7). Always.
Forever and ever.

In Christian love,

Norbert Link

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

Have you been SHOCKED by what is happening?

Jesus Christ spoke of things that “must come to pass” (Matthew 24:6), and He continued by telling of devastating events that would signal “the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:8).

When we witness the unprecedented scale of destruction that has been striking so many nations, it becomes unmistakably apparent that prophecy is coming to fruition! The very developments spoken of by Jesus Christ are signals we should carefully WATCH:

“‘Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors! Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away’” (Matthew 24:32-35).

Yet, we must understand that this is only the THRESHOLD and that this world will face unparalleled terror in the coming years:

“‘And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved [alive]; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened’” (Matthew 24: 22).

The “elect” are those who are the true and faithful Christians—the ones who do not compromise with the Truth; who overcome and endure in their calling from God; who are committed to preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of God; and who love one-another, just as Christ loves us.

There is also something else that the “elect” are instructed to do, and this applies very specifically to our generation. First, we are to WATCH: “‘Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming’” (Matthew 24:42). Next, we are to BE READY: “‘Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect’” (Matthew 24:44).

We have this additional warning from Jesus:

“‘But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man’” (Luke 21:34-36).

In Proverbs, it is stated, “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself…” (Proverbs 22:3; 27:12).

Are we PREPARED for the evil that we KNOW is coming—that even now has begun; and how do we “hide” ourselves?

The answer to both of these questions lies in the strength of our relationship with God! Like Jesus Christ did, so must we learn to rely on God. Our key is to fervently use the Holy Spirit of God!

On June 12, 2011, we will once again observe the Feast of Weeks—Pentecost. This is a time of particular meaning and significance for the elect of God who have been called to be among the firstfruits (Revelation 14:4)—those who will be in the first resurrection (Revelation 20:5) and who will live and reign with Jesus Christ for one thousand years (Revelation 20:4).

We have the record of many true followers of God who have lived before us—it is found in the Word of God, and it is for our instruction and inspiration. Hebrews, chapter eleven, rehearses the walk of faith and the outstanding example of men and women who will also be among the firstfruits of God.

Theirs is a story of success and the victory that comes through God’s help (1 Corinthians 15:57). God has also given to us His unbreakable promises for help in times of need (Hebrews 4:16), and we can faithfully commit ourselves to this assurance of hope (compare 1 John 5:4-5; Revelation 15:2).

While we continue to witness the terror that is arising from so many sources, we must be attentive to and magnify our personal relationship with God and Jesus Christ,  “casting all [our] care upon Him, for He cares for [us]” (1 Peter 5:7).

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris

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Dear Brethren:

We have just observed Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread. We focused on the fact that the annual Passover reminds us of the great Sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Because He was willing to shed His blood for the sins of humanity, we can in the future become a part of the Family of God, ruling with and under Christ in the Millennium and throughout eternity.

The Passover was preceded by a period of self-examination to ensure that we were taking the Passover in a worthy manner, as admonished by Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:28-29: “But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.”

It was and still is important, not only to examine ourselves, but also to root out any sin which we may have, by first identifying it. That is where the Days of Unleavened Bread came in.

We concentrated on the truth that the seven Days of Unleavened Bread are an annual reminder of the need to remove sin from our lives and to replace sin with righteousness. The seven days denote completion, so at the end of the seven days, sin should have been completely conquered and removed. Of course, this is the ideal, but we all know that this is not how it works. As some of us may have found leaven in our homes during the Days of Unleavened Bread, which we inadvertently failed to remove, so we are still confronted with sin. No human being, who is alive today, has reached the state of sinlessness.

However, we must strive to remove each and every sin. The importance of this cannot be overemphasized, since sins, even in small quantities, corrupt the thinking of a person—just like a little leaven which leavens the whole lump, as we read in 1 Corinthians 5:6: “Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump?”

Likewise, a little sin that is not dealt with and removed, can corrupt the whole mind. Compare this to a virus in a computer! If it is not dealt with, it can corrupt the hard drive to the point where it becomes totally dysfunctional.

Let us consider Job. God said that he was righteous; that is, he was not committing any outward sin, but he had a deep-rooted problem of being self-righteous, which, as any sin not being dealt with, can totally corrupt the human mind. It took God a while through some really tough trials to get Job to finally see his problem and to repent for his own benefit. He said in Job 42:5-6: “I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, But now my eye sees You. Therefore I abhor myself, And repent in dust and ashes.”

Once this happened, God restored the losses that Job had suffered, and He rewarded Job. It took a while, but from God’s perspective, it was worth it, which is an important lesson for us.

Sin must be repented of daily in order for it not to get a hold on us. That is why daily prayer is so important, since we can ask for forgiveness for any sins of commission and omission, and we can beg God to help us not to allow sins to sneak up on us and overpower us.

The next annual Holy Day in God’s master plan is the day of Pentecost, which will be kept this year on June 12. It reminds us of the gift of the Holy Spirit which God bestowed on the New Testament church in 31 A.D., enabling the disciples to become more and more successful in their endeavor to overcome and conquer sin.

As we move forward, we must also consider the job that we as a Church and individually have been given. We are to participate and support our commission of preaching and publishing the gospel to this sick world as a witness, in order to facilitate and hopefully speed up the return of Christ, which is the only solution for mankind.

World conditions are deteriorating at an accelerating pace, and it has become evident that God has removed His blessings that He had promised unconditionally to the modern descendants of Abraham—the modern house of Israel, and more specifically, the descendants of the sons of Joseph—Ephraim and Manasseh—who can be found today in Great Britain, Canada, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and, of course, the United States of America.

Recently we observed flooding in Australia and earthquakes in New Zealand, and currently we are plagued with droughts in certain areas of the United States, while fires are burning out of control in Texas, and storms and tornadoes are descending by the hundreds on states like the Carolinas, which is historically unheard of.

And while our nations condemn the killing and slaughter of protestors and demonstrators by the governments of Libya and Syria, we ourselves murder millions annually by abortion. What hypocrisy! Those nations in the Middle East are killing hundreds of people, and our Israelite nations kill millions of innocent babies each year, while pointing the finger at others.

Things are going to get progressively worse for our nations as we approach the time when God will have to literally save the very elect to prevent them from being exterminated. Plainly stated, things will get worse for us as we are currently under the self-inflicted curse of our sins.

But those of us who are called by God, know that there is hope, and that hope lies in Christ who will return to save mankind from itself.

Therefore, our focus at this time should be on finishing the Work that God has given us, as God opens doors before us to accomplish that goal. Now is not the time to slack off or to be or become complacent. Rather, now is the time to zealously seek God and do His Will which is clearly stated, and to ensure that we do not become victims of sin in our lives, but, as admonished by Christ, we are to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Because of our involvement and collective and individual efforts, Christ will eventually give us eternal life at His return. Isn’t that a goal worth striving for and being totally involved in?

In Christ Service

Rene Messier

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Dear Brethren, Co-Workers and Friends:

Thank you for all your prayers in regard to our annual conference—they were greatly appreciated and their power was felt. During the conference, which concluded just over a week ago, we were able to complete everything that we set out to do, and more. We used this time to assess where we have been and evaluated where we should go. We looked at the past year specifically to see if we have accomplished what we planned, and to the future to set more goals in order to better fulfill the Great Commission that we have been given.

The ministers gave reports that included areas specific to them, as well as other regions that need to be looked after. We are beginning to notice more and more needs in areas that we do not currently have the resources to serve. As the necessity becomes more pressing, the reality that we must tend to the prospective members there becomes more tangible. As we preach the gospel of the Kingdom of God, as God has commanded His Church to do, this is the outgrowth that we can expect. Because we have done this in accordance with His Will, we faithfully wait for and anticipate the means by which we can carry out this next step.

We are making the most of what we have been given. As we continue to experience the economic crisis that besets our nations, our organizations have begun to take some financial hits. We expressed our financial needs to our members, and asked for prayer and fasting, and we are sincerely appreciative of the generous response to those needs and the special offerings that have been sent in. Our duty has been and will continue to be that of wise stewards with that which God has given us. We sincerely try to be as effective as possible with all that we have been entrusted. We will not spend what we do not have, but we firmly believe that God will give us what we need to fulfill our responsibilities.

One of the areas that exemplifies this and continues to develop is that of our Internet presence. The percentage of positive change has been phenomenal in several different areas. We have seen numbers nearly twice as high as the year before—this is a 100% increase over last period’s figures. In human terms, this seems unsustainable, but with God nothing is impossible—so we will not doubt what He can and will do. Our hopes and expectations are to carry on this momentum to a point of critical mass—a time when an explosive self-sustaining growth is triggered.

The technical team’s efforts were bolstered with the ordination of Mr. Eric Rank to the rank and office of an Elder. Mr. Rank has been heavily involved in this aspect of the Work for years. Exodus 31:1-5 was cited within the ordination message in the context that God can give more of His Spirit to help someone do an even better work than they are otherwise capable of. Our Internet presence is currently one of the main means of getting the gospel out to the world—a crucial aspect of our commission. The ministry concluded that Mr. Rank’s attitude, combined with his tireless dedication, made him an obvious candidate for the eldership.

The other aspect of our commission, as mentioned in Matthew 28:19-20, is the feeding of the flock. In this vein, Mr. and Mrs. Norbert Link and their family will be heading to Germany to visit the brethren there. Recently, the area has experienced startling growth and the need to support it is evident. They will leave in about one week and remain there for the duration of the Spring Holy Days.

We are now in the pre-Passover season, the beginning of the annual festivals of God. We have already heard many messages directed toward us in preparation for this most meaningful and pivotal time. As we pray to be led by God’s Spirit, we need to take to heart these messages, as we examine ourselves.

At this time of the year, many issues may come to the surface, and real problems are magnified. There is an explanation for this… but there are two sides to the coin, though!

Firstly, we need to be aware of the fact that Satan is going to be making trouble for us. He will use every means at his disposal to take us off point. We need to be cognizant of all his evil devices and be on guard for his attacks. When trouble hits, we must be ready for his end game.

The other side of the coin is that God wants us to grow and overcome the faults and character flaws that we have. At this time of the year, in particular, He wants us to critically examine ourselves. God wants us to see ourselves the way He does—so that we can change for the better and become more like Him.

So, especially before the annual Passover, we can expect dilemmas and difficulties to arise. How we respond to them will determine whether we progress or regress. Remember, Satan tempts us in order to bring out the worst, and God tests us in order to bring out the best.

We are admonished not to give way to the devil, but rather, to submit to God. When we use the power of God’s Holy Spirit in us, we can successfully navigate the season we are in and come out of it spiritually augmented.

Brethren, God has tasked us with a vital undertaking. Please continue to diligently pray for one another and the Work that God has given us to do, so that we may be found “so doing” when Christ returns in the very near future.

In Christian love,

Norbert Link

Dave Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

Eric Rank

PS We are enclosing a renewal card for our readers in the USA. Please fill out and return the card in order to continue to receive our member letters and booklets.

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Dear Brethren and Friends!

According to man’s calendar, another year has come and gone, and 2010 is not one that too many will look upon with any great affection.

The ongoing problems in Afghanistan and Iraq continue to take young lives, and a large majority of people in both the UK and the USA are suffering financial difficulties, following the well documented economic problems that have beset many nations around the world.

The coalition government that we now have in the UK has the unenviable task of trying to reduce a massive budget deficit, and those who are affected inevitably complain at the measures being taken. Benefit fraud and the “milking” of the system has been endemic for some years. The Daily Telegraph reported, in September of last year, that “Four million households in Britain have no adults in work, official figures show, with the number rising this year to reach a 10-year high.”

In addition, Sky News commented last October that “Incapacity benefit claimants will today start being reassessed for their ability to work – part of the first phase of the Government’s welfare reform programme. The move comes as new figures showed that almost £135bn had been spent over the past 10 years keeping two million people ‘on the sick’. Very few people argue against the fact that huge financial abuse has taken place and this reflects a society where ethics are disregarded in the pursuit of self.”

Also in 2010, earthquakes continued to regularly take their toll of human life, and a BBC report on the floods in Pakistan said that 12 million people had been affected. More recently, an earthquake generated tsunami devastated remote islands in Indonesia. And on October 28th, just over two months ago, it was reported that 28 European Union leaders meeting at the European Council in Brussels approved a plan to revise the Lisbon Treaty to facilitate the creation of a permanent framework for ailing euro zone economies. As we stated in our November 5th Update: “The time for the creation of a ‘core Europe’ and a strong leader in Europe may arrive soon.” It seems that events are moving at an alarming rate.

But there is one disturbing aspect that society as a whole would not want to consider at all, but which will have quite an effect in the future. That terrible reality is man’s rejection of God.

In Stephen Hawking’s new book, which was published last year, he stated that “Modern physics leaves no place for God in the creation of the Universe.”  Atheist Richard Dawkins wrote “The God Delusion” in 2006, and this book has sold in huge numbers. And Christopher Hitchens, another atheist, published with great success his book “God is not Great”.

One Christian commentator opined: “But judging by the unanimous acclaim given to ‘The God Delusion’ in the national press, it is likely that the ideas contained in it will have a big influence on policymakers and the nation as a whole over the coming years. And if this turns out to be the case, we as Christians will find ourselves to be an increasingly persecuted people.”

The three high profile agnostic or atheistic British authors (mentioned above) have helped delude millions by their utterances which have been taken as truth by so many. Basic understanding is ignored because it is Bible based – understanding that would, if implemented, solve so many problems. But without practicing the truth of the Bible, there is really no hope that world conditions could improve.

For example, 2 Thessalonians 3:10 states: “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat”. If this simple basic instruction was implemented, those whose lifestyle is living on state benefits would be a thing of the past. That would save the country billions of pounds.

Another truth is that “… the borrower is servant to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7). If this was taken seriously, the huge debts that so many have incurred would never have happened. Nevertheless, the nation sets no example in this regard, printing money seemingly at will.

Husband and wife relationships are covered in a number of passages (see, for example, Ephesians 5:22-29; Colossians 3:18-19; and 1 Corinthians 11:3). If such admonition was taken seriously, we wouldn’t have the misery of separation or divorce and the negative effect this inevitably has on any children of that union.

The First of the Ten Commandments instructs us that we should have no other gods before the great Creator God (Exodus 20:3). If this was followed by humanity, we wouldn’t have agnosticism or atheism or any of the false religions that abound, particularly the aggressive terrorist type of misplaced zeal that is such a plague on society today.

Further, if the Fourth Commandment was taken seriously (Exodus 20:8-11), then the observance of the 7th-day Sabbath, a day of rest from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset, would refresh and help those whose frenetic lifestyle for the other six days of the week can cause illness and health problems by continuous overuse of their bodies.

Because the Bible is mocked by such agnostic or atheistic authors as mentioned earlier (and others), these truths are not known, understood or taken seriously. The Bible is a storehouse of wisdom and truth, with Proverbs particularly standing out in this respect, but if the Word of God is “rubbished” by these “intellectuals”, millions are influenced by their views and turn against biblical revelation.

Man is thumbing his nose at God, but that disrespect will only be allowed for so long. Blasphemy is endemic in our society where God’s Name is used by the youngest to the oldest as a swear word and an epithet. Many simply may have no idea what they are saying and doing, and if they did know, they would probably not be concerned anyway.

God and His way does not figure in most people’s lives. The sense of decency, courtesy, politeness and respect that we used to practice has simply been discarded, and God is just not in the picture. The freedom of expression that we enjoy has been exploited by those whose agenda is anti-God. This unnoticed aspect of our society will bear fruit because “whatever a man sows, that he will also reap” (Galatians 6:7). The initial part of that verse is chilling. It says: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked”, and so the godless society we live in will only be allowed for so long until God’s purpose is fulfilled.

A few days ago, after having been absorbed in the pagan holiday of Christmas, the world celebrated its New Year with all the antics and behaviour that is so often associated with it and which characterizes this pagan festival year after year. It was observed with the usual high expectations for the coming twelve months, but the signs are not good.

Next it will be Easter, and that “Christian” world’s holiday will again be kept in due time. But God has given His people the marvelous truth about His way of life and the master plan of salvation as revealed in the Holy Days that will commence in April of this year. As a special service to our readers, we are enclosing pocket calendars for the dates of God’s annual Holy Days until 2017.

Now is not the time to let down. It is high time to maintain our trust in God, not in politicians, business tycoons, various other leaders and misguided authors. Many of these high profile individuals may be well intentioned, but unless one understands the truth, repents of one’s wrong ways of thinking and practices, and unless one has received God’s Holy Spirit, one cannot have the answers necessary to resolve the insurmountable problems that we will continue to experience in 2011.

Those problems will only be resolved when Christ returns, and how long will that be? In spite of various predictions by some who should know better, we simply have no idea as to the year of His coming (Matthew 24:36; Acts 1:6-7). God simply hasn’t revealed the date. (That our calendar lists God’s annual Holy Days until 2017 is only because of space considerations. No other meaning should be attached to this fact!). We can say, however, that as the world continues to degenerate in just about every way, Christ’s return will surely have to happen soon to save us from ourselves (compare Matthew 24:22, 32-35).

Satan is angry and will continue to intensify his efforts to derail us. Let us intensify our efforts in becoming and staying close to God. That way we will be able to weather the storms that lie ahead with the promise of a wonderful future—for eternity. It will be worth all the effort!

With Christian love,

Brian Gale
(Great Britain)

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Dear Brethren and Friends:

Within a few weeks, this world celebrates Christmas. Paradoxically and perhaps surprisingly to many, it is not only the “Christian” world, which observes this popular festival. Many non-Christian nations observe it too—but this fact is not all that startling when we consider that Christmas is anything else but Christian. Its origins are steeped in paganism, and any objective researcher will have to admit this truth. Many don’t care, though, thinking that it makes no difference whether it’s pagan or Christian, as long as it’s nice, fun-filled, family-oriented and, perhaps, resembling the appearance of “some” warm religious “feelings.”

From a strictly human point of view, this concept might even make sense. After all, what could possibly be wrong with a family gathering; a common meal; a beautifully decorated Christmas tree; colorful lights in the front yard; nice carols; the exchange of gifts; donations to worthy causes of feeding the hungry; the smiling faces of children receiving presents; and even the rare walk or drive to a nearby Church service? One would be well-advised, of course, to overlook rampant alcoholism, brutal crimes and strife at home, and the many “nice” fabricated stories about Santa Claus or the little Christ child, which are told to innocent and believing children… but apart from these accompanying circumstances or “excusable” white lies, what could possibly be wrong with observing a most joyous Christmas season—a time of peace and good will toward man?

As it is the case with so many affairs of life, it is wrong because God tells us so. Man, by himself, does not know right from wrong. It must be revealed to him, and he must be willing to accept it and live by it. If you are in doubt as to whether or not it makes a difference to God whether His people participate in humanly-devised pagan holidays (whether or not the “Christian” element is emphasized), please read our free booklet, “Don’t Keep Christmas.” It proves to you that Jesus was not born on December 25; that the early Christians never kept Christmas, but that idol-worshipping pagans did; that the Roman Catholic Church adopted this festival and its customs for the sake of sun-adoring heathens in order to bring them into the “Christian” fold; and, most importantly, that and why God condemns its celebration with the strongest of terms.

Most of you know about and have accepted God’s viewpoint on Christmas. But what about other areas of life? Do we sometimes feel that we don’t always have to follow God’s directives—at least perhaps not that carefully and precisely? Do we occasionally think that we might know a better way or an alternate course of action, which might also work and which God would accept as well?

Examples are perhaps too numerous to list here, but let’s ask ourselves: Are we convinced and convicted that it is always wrong to advocate or even go to war; to vote in government elections; to participate in jury duty; to support or have an abortion; to cheat on our mate; to commit premarital fornication; to lie or stretch the truth a little; to take God’s name in vain; to use foul language; to smoke or get drunk; to hurt or offend our fellow man; to refuse to do good when it is in our power to do so, or to be truly peacemakers???  Many or perhaps even most Christians would agree that “all of the above” is wrong, but how often do we fall short, thinking perhaps at that tempting moment that it does not really matter “that much” to God.

However, all of it—and much more—matters a great deal to our Creator. We are to become perfect, as He is perfect (Matthew 5:48)—and could we imagine that God would lie just a little or that He would compromise just one iota of His law? Christ said in Matthew 5:18 that not one of the smallest letters nor one tittle will pass from the law until all is fulfilled or accomplished—until everyone will have been given the opportunity to accept and keep it. After all, the law of God describes the very immutable and unchangeable character of God.

When we become too indifferent to God’s Word, we will have to learn the hard way. God chastens everyone whom He receives (Hebrews 12:6). Sometimes, God does it directly, by bringing about circumstances which should teach us and wake us up. When things just don’t go right for a prolonged period of time, we should ask ourselves what God might be telling us. Sometimes, however, penalties come automatically, because sins have built-in consequences. Blessings are the effect of obedience, while disobedience (sin) results in automatic curses (Deuteronomy 11:26-28). God wants us to become Christians who are astute enough to recognize why certain events may be happening in our lives. He tells us in Proverbs 15:31: “The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise” (Authorized Version). This is not just talking about reproof from friends which, if heeded, prolongs our lives, but it is mainly addressing life’s reproofs or corrections. We are to listen and consider those, and learn from them, if we want to become wise and succeed.

God has told us, individually and collectively, what He expects of us today. He wants His gospel OF the Kingdom of God to be proclaimed in all the world as a witness (Matthew 24:14); He wants His Church to prepare for Christ’s Second Coming (Revelation 19:7); He wants all of us to watch world conditions and ourselves, and to pray always (Mark 13:33; Luke 21:36); and He wants us to always abound in the Work of God (Mark 13:34; John 14:12; 1 Corinthians 15:58)—not delaying, but hastening the day of Christ’s return (2 Peter 3:9, 12). He wants us to live in peace with each other (Hebrews 12:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:13); to encourage each other; not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together (Hebrews 10:24-25)—in short, to replace all carnal selfishness with outgoing concern for others.

It’s just another way of saying: “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind… [and] you shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37, 39). But again, God must show us HOW to love—because man does not know that kind of godly love which is required of him. To God, it’s not a small thing. As our truest friend, He is never indifferent about loving us at all times (Proverbs 17:17). God IS love (1 John  4:8), and He wants us to BECOME love as well. We are not talking about that warm, cozy, fleeting feeling of “love,” which is popularized and “embraced” at Christmas time, but we are accepting God’s Word, which tells us: “For this IS the love of God, that we keep His commandments (1 John 5:3).”

In these dark days—especially quite literally during winter time in the Western hemisphere—let us shine brightly (Proverbs 4:18), by reflecting God’s light to the people in this world. Rather than being temporary, passing candles on pagan Christmas trees, let us be enduring, ever-burning and never extinguishing representations of God’s loving character, so that people can recognize and even glorify God in us (Matthew 5:16). That is what God wants—that is what He expects of us. That is why we are called today. Let us always walk worthy of our calling (2 Thessalonians 1:11).

With brotherly love,

Norbert link

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

We believe that we are living in what the Bible calls the end of this age, and the signs of our times bring this truth into clearer focus, day-by-day! And for those of you who have either directly or indirectly followed the message we bring, you know that the preaching of the gospel of the Kingdom of God reigns paramount in our activities.

Of our present generation, the apostle Paul was inspired to write a warning for Christians to take to heart:

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

Much of what Paul identifies as being characteristic of “the last days” has also arisen in other times, but in these verses, he is writing about society becoming irretrievably saturated with all kinds of evil—much as was the case in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, when unspeakable practices so inundated those people that God was moved to destroy them (compare Genesis 18 and 19)!

Likewise, we find a similar record of those living in the days just before the Flood:

“Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the LORD was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. So the LORD said, ‘I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them’” (Genesis 6:5-7).

Now, in this context, consider what Jesus also said in a warning to us:

“‘But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be’” (Matthew 24:37-39).

For most people in this age, things seem to just be going on—as it has always done. God condemns the blindness of those who should lead in these dire times:

“All you beasts of the field, come to devour, All you beasts in the forest. His watchmen are blind, They are all ignorant; They are all dumb dogs, They cannot bark; Sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. Yes, they are greedy dogs Which never have enough. And they are shepherds Who cannot understand; They all look to their own way, Every one for his own gain, From his own territory. ‘Come,’ one says, ‘I will bring wine, And we will fill ourselves with intoxicating drink; Tomorrow will be as today, And much more abundant’” (Isaiah 56:9-12).

In the context of the approaching nearness of “the great day of the LORD” (Zephaniah 1:14)—a terrible time of God’s wrath just preceding the return of Jesus Christ—note how the people have ruled God out of events of the world of this generation:

“‘And it shall come to pass at that time That I will search Jerusalem with lamps, And punish the men Who are settled in complacency, Who say in their heart, “The Lord will not do good, Nor will He do evil”’” (Zephaniah 1:12).

This blind complacency that evil has begotten is about to reap its consequences! God, through His written Word and through the proclamation of His servants, has and is warning those who will heed—who will stay awake, ready and watching!

What about us?

As world events spin faster and faster into prophetic fulfillment, will we become hardened to sin and grow weary in our calling? The need to serve God even more diligently, even more fruitfully—until our job, our work, is completed—does not diminish, but grows in urgency!

Brethren and friends, much has happened to the Church of God in the past few decades, and even in this year, divisions continue among those who have been called into the Truth. While we can and must prayerfully consider these circumstances, we, nonetheless, must not be dismayed—for, even these events have been prophesied.

What we have been taught, we also teach, and that is summed up in the words of Jesus Christ, “‘But he who endures to the end shall be saved’” (Matthew 24:13); and in the message He gave to the seven churches in Revelation, chapters 2 and 3, which states that we must overcome to receive eternal life!

Finally, go back and reread the verses from 2 Timothy 3, along with the other Scriptures quoted and their context—and consider these words of Jesus Christ, as well:

“‘Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near’” (Luke 21:28).

Once again, we THANK you who so faithfully continue in the calling of God and in supporting this Work that He and Jesus Christ are accomplishing through us all!

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

We have concluded this year’s observances of God’s annual Holy Days. Some among us have experienced their very first attendance of the Feast of Tabernacles, while most have been faithfully keeping all of God’s commanded Feast Days for many years.

The Bible both records God’s revelation and His instructions for His special Feasts. We also find the results that came about when His people walked faithfully before Him and observed these times set aside by God: Hezekiah kept the Passover and turned the people back to God (compare 2 Chronicles 30)—as did Josiah (compare 2 Kings 23); Ezra and Nehemiah taught those returning from captivity in Babylon to keep God’s laws—including the Feast of Tabernacles (compare Nehemiah 8).

Hand-in-hand with keeping these designated observances has come the knowledge of God’s plan of salvation and how He is making it possible that all of mankind will have an opportunity for eternal life! This is what Jesus spoke of when He taught the people who were at Jerusalem keeping the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day (compare John 7).

We read in 1 Kings 12 of the terrible consequences for the ten tribes of Israel who chose to follow Jeroboam when he not only changed the place of worship but the times of worship:

“(28) Therefore the king asked advice, made two calves of gold, and said to the people, ‘It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem. Here are your gods, O Israel, which brought you up from the land of Egypt!’ (29) And he set up one in Bethel, and the other he put in Dan. (30) Now this thing became a sin, for the people went to worship before the one as far as Dan. (31) He made shrines on the high places, and made priests from every class of people, who were not of the sons of Levi. (32) Jeroboam ordained a feast on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, like the feast that was in Judah, and offered sacrifices on the altar. So he did at Bethel, sacrificing to the calves that he had made. And at Bethel he installed the priests of the high places which he had made. (33) So he made offerings on the altar which he had made at Bethel on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, in the month which he had devised in his own heart. And he ordained a feast for the children of Israel, and offered sacrifices on the altar and burned incense.”

We further note that Jeroboam’s disobedience of God’s instructions violated the role of the Levitical priesthood, and they were forced to make a stand for the true knowledge of God:

“For the Levites left their common-lands and their possessions and came to Judah and Jerusalem, for Jeroboam and his sons had rejected them from serving as priests to the Lord. Then he appointed for himself priests for the high places, for the demons, and the calf idols which he had made. And after the Levites left, those from all the tribes of Israel, such as set their heart to seek the Lord God of Israel, came to Jerusalem to sacrifice to the Lord God of their fathers” (2 Chronicles 11:14-16).

Now, in our own time, there are those who also devise from their own heart their own choices of when and how to keep what only God can reveal. Doing so will lead to a darkening of and loss of understanding—just as has always occurred when people depart from the truth of God. Unfortunately, some give lip service to the Holy Days of God, but they do not obey what only He has established.

In the face of this, we can truly rejoice in the knowledge God has revealed to us!

Not only are we growing in our understanding of God’s Will, but we are strengthened “…to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude, verse 3). By keeping all of God’s Holy Days at the right time and in the right way, we serve as witnesses to this world and as shining lights in the spiritual darkness. Note how our faithful obedience concerning the Passover is used by God to proclaim His gospel:

“For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body which is broken  for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’ In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.’ For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

Now, we offer the following reports from our Feast sites in North Wales and California for 2010:

North Wales

“This year, the Global Church of God in the UK held the Feast of Tabernacles at Deganwy near Llandudno in North Wales. In the last 11 years, the Feast had been held at Chatsworth House in beautiful rural Derbyshire on no fewer than 10 occasions. It was felt that, perhaps, a new venue for 2010 might be appropriate.

“One of the concerns was that after the truly millennial setting that is the Chatsworth area, it might be difficult to find a venue that would be appropriate. However, after much investigation and prayer, God provided a site at the Quay Hotel. This proved to be an excellent venue, with views across the harbour. Set in the idyllic waterside location, the Quay Hotel is situated overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Conwy Castle. It is peaceful, tranquil and very uplifting and is a fitting replacement for Chatsworth House. The hotel was warm and inviting and was ideal for our purposes.

“New visitors were warmly welcomed along with many who have become regular attendees. Everyone enjoyed and appreciated outstanding messages from Evangelist Norbert Link as well as from Brian Gale, Andrew Burns, Bill Koeneke and Douglas Mitchell. In addition, to the delight of all, Norbert Link and Brian Gale baptized two new members from Germany during the Feast (Mr. Link had also baptized one member in Germany before the Feast). There was also the blessing of one child at the Feast.

“Messages included such topics as Purpose, How to Observe God’s Holy Days, Trial and Tribulation, God Will Dwell With Us, No-Go Areas in the Millennium, Living Waters, My City, Let There Be Light, Current and Future Practice, The Second Resurrection, The Mighty Power of Leverage, A Service Attitude and a number of other interesting subjects.

“Whilst the spiritual food is the most important reason for attending the Feast, many other activities were arranged and enjoyed by all. A church social was arranged and enjoyed by all as well and the Feast dinner was again a highlight as in previous years, with everyone delighting in good food and great company. An organised coach tour visited a number of places in the Snowdonia region, which is a beautiful part of the British Isles.

“The Feast was over all too soon and time to return home. Those who attended will remember a Feast in an area of beauty, peace, serenity and camaraderie with others of a like mind. We are all now waiting for the reality of what the Feast pictures!

California

“The Church of the Eternal God in the USA and the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship in Canada were privileged to meet in Pismo Beach on the central coast of California. The Mission Inn of Pismo Beach served both as our meeting location and the lodging facility for most attendees.

“We experienced ideal, sunny weather throughout our stay, and the local area provided exceptional eating establishments along with opportunities for a beach party, All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) rides, an excursion into Morro Bay to view sea life, attending the farmers’ market in San Luis Obispo and wine tours in Paso Robles.

“Being able to really spend quality time fellowshipping with one another highlighted this Feast. Breakfast was included as a part of the extremely reasonable room rates, so we could visit informally—adding to time together!

“Two young children took part in the blessing of little children. Additionally, we enjoyed a Hawaiian themed dinner-dance evening and a very entertaining fun-talent show.

“The sermons and sermonettes were well prepared and given, and they all projected the positive hope of the future God has in store when His government is established on this earth through Jesus Christ. Many commented that theirs was a very spiritually fulfilling Feast! Speakers included Dave Harris, Rene Messier, Bill Grams, Terry Grade, Robb Harris, Michael Link, Eric Rank, Kalon Mitchell, Bob Bourque and Joe Bourque, addressing a variety of topics, including Joy and Rejoicing, Why Are We Here, The Thousand Years, God’s Plan and His Tools for Us, Caring for the Poor, Perfection and Completion, Statutes and Judgments, the King of Kings, Becoming God, The Last Great Day, Forward Even Forever, and additional interesting subjects.

“We also note that Lois Bargar, who died on October 13, 2010, was able to attend the Feast of Tabernacles. However, she became sick and had to leave on the Last Great Day. All of us are deeply saddened by her death, and we know how valiantly she endured much personal suffering in order to set such an example of zeal in her calling. She will be greatly missed! Information regarding a Memorial Service will be announced soon.”

Brethren, although God’s annual Feast Days have been completed for this year, God continues to provide the weekly Sabbath for us! The deep meaning of this seventh day, as well as God’s annual Festivals, are lost to this age. We would like to encourage you to read or re-read our free booklet, “God’s Commanded Holy Days,” which explains in detail the real purpose of God’s weekly and annual Sabbaths, and WHY God commands us to observe them properly.

As prophecy marches forward in its fulfillment, our obedience will stand in greater contrast to those around us, but we are challenged to continue to grow in God’s knowledge, to zealously overcome and to endure what we will face!

We are assured that God will never leave us, and we will always have His help!

Jesus Christ has left us an example in this regard—and so have those faithful brethren who, with us, are promised to be among the firstfruits of salvation and who will all receive life evermore!

In Christ’s Service,

Norbert Link

David Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

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Dear Brethren and Friends:

Warm greetings to all of you who are dedicated to supporting the Work of the Eternal God.

You should receive this member letter prior to the annual Feast Days—especially the Feast of Tabernacles which is going to be celebrated and kept where God has placed His name. This year, God led us to select Feast sites in Pismo Beach, California, USA, and also in North Wales, in the United Kingdom.

The Feast of Trumpets and the Day of Atonement picture Christ’s return and the banishment of Satan. It is so very important that these events will happen soon. Just look at all the problems
facing this world today—be it the news about assassinated people in Mexico due to drug cartel wars going on in that country; the flooding in Pakistan; the increasing U.S. debt which is virtually impossible to reduce or eliminate, leading to an inevitable collapse of the U.S. economy in due time; the ongoing real fear of war in the Middle East; terrorist threats; earthquakes; hurricanes and tornadoes; volcanic eruptions; droughts; and other terrible occurrences. The average thinking person has to ask: “What’s wrong with this picture?”

The answer is clear: We have gotten it all wrong because Satan rules this world. Ever since the rejection of God’s ways and His government by Adam and Eve, the world has been in a deteriorating downward spiral, facing utter oblivion. It gets pretty bad when Christ pronounces that unless our days were shortened, no flesh would be saved alive. Left to our own devices and our tendencies to destroy, we would obliterate all human and animal life from the face of the earth. A pretty grim future would await this planet, if God were not to intervene. Thankfully, man will not be allowed to take it that far. Jesus Christ will return to save us from ourselves, and to bind Satan so that he cannot deceive the nations anymore. While politicians and governmental leaders promise us peace and prosperity, we know that they are unable to bring us peace. As Paul says in Romans 3:17: “And the way of peace they have not known.”

Christ’s return and the establishment of God’s Kingdom here on earth is the only hope for mankind. And you and I—God’s saints—can have a part in this. While we do not participate in the political affairs of this rotten evil and Satan-inspired world, we WILL be ruling this earth under Christ for a thousand years in the Kingdom of God. We will rule on this earth over this earth—teaching and guiding mankind to live a better way of life, which will lead to true prosperity, peace and joyous fulfillment. That is what the Feast of Tabernacles pictures—a time when mankind will have access to the Holy Spirit. And the Last Great Day or the Eighth Day foreshadows the joyous time when all who have lived and died, without knowing and understanding God’s way of happiness, will be granted their opportunity to live righteously—as God had intended from the outset.

Mankind will have to choose whether to obey or reject God’s ways and laws. This will be true for the people living throughout the Millennium and during the Great White Throne judgment period. But when their minds are open to the truth of God, and when they will be able to compare their past destructive ways of Satan with the peaceful ways of God, most—we believe—will make the right choice.

Knowing all of this, we are to show God today how much we appreciate His plan for mankind. We are commanded in Leviticus 23 and in many other passages to keep the annual Holy Days—the feasts of the Lord, not of man. In order to be able to attend these commanded holy assemblies of God’s people—especially the Feast of Tabernacles—we are to faithfully save our second tithe. We are also admonished to rejoice before God at the place that He chooses for us. Although we are to rejoice in the physical sense (having saved enough money to buy during the Feast what our hearts desire), the real meaning of and purpose for our joy is found in the spiritual aspects—the godly fellowship highlighted by messages which have been prepared for this special occasion.

Christ’s return and His rule on earth is the only solution for mankind. The Feast of Tabernacles pictures a time when there will be true peace on earth—when man does not want to learn anymore how to fight wars. War and hatred are learned from an early age. Man is trained in the “art of war.” Wars have become commonplace. A world without wars seems to be unimaginable. But with God nothing is impossible. Rather than hating others, people will learn to love. And love is the fulfillment of the LAW of God. We in God’s Church today must embrace and proclaim and live with all our being the gospel of the Kingdom of God—a gospel of love and peace. We are to seek peace and pursue it. As true peacemakers, we will live God’s law of love.

In the future, the law of God will flow from Jerusalem—the new capital of the world. Man will be taught to keep all of God’s laws, including the true Lord’s day—the weekly Sabbath, which is to be observed from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset. No more cheap Satanic substitutes will be permitted to be kept, such as Sunday, an ancient pagan holy day on which the sungod was worshipped. People will also be taught to keep God’s Feast of Tabernacles, as mentioned in Zechariah 14 and in other places.

The Feast of Tabernacles pictures a time of peace and harmony when people’s minds will be open to the truth of God’s Word. This is truly a time to look forward to, so it is incumbent upon us to make every effort to be there and to partake attentively of the spiritual food. We are to visualize in our minds the time when God’s entire plan will have become reality. Anticipating what the annual Holy Days picture, let us ensure that we all will have a great and fulfilling Feast.

With brotherly love,

Rene Messier

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

It is only a few weeks since the UK general election took place, which initially resulted in a hung parliament from which the first coalition for 65 years was formed. This coalition agreement between the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats inevitably necessitated a lot of horse-trading and compromise, and the new Prime Minister David Cameron said that give and take was not a sign of weakness but of a mature approach. Balancing a government that comprised two parties was obviously a tricky and difficult business, but was probably the only way round an impasse that threatened to turn into a crisis, had such an agreement not been reached. Of course, we are not suggesting that the crisis was averted for good and that not even bigger problems are awaiting us.

The Daily Mail stated the following on 15th May: “Let the Mail say at once that we join in welcoming this auspicious start to the coalition, which raises real hopes of a stable Government with the authority to tackle our nightmare deficit. But a word or two of caution. First, remember that nobody voted for the legislative programme, cobbled together by a handful of politicians, which blithely ignores manifesto commitments and is now to be imposed on us. Indeed, 10.7 million Tories voted for something very different from the wealth-redistribution measures and constitutional reforms we’re now to get.  Of course, everyone recognises that compromises were inevitable if this coalition was to have a chance of survival.”

Compromise, give and take and horse-trading may be an acceptable ploy in the political world, but is not an acceptable practice for true Christians when it comes to the way of life to which we have been called. It is a vital difference that sets us apart and just one of the many reasons why we should have no involvement with politics.

In the build-up to the election, the usual issues were raised with the economy at the top of the list, together with tackling the UK’s huge budget deficit. Many other issues were also discussed, but, as always, money was the main issue—taxation, welfare benefits, interest rates, cutting costs—and the list went on and on.

I was reminded of a phrase used in Bill Clinton’s first presidential race, “It’s the economy, stupid.” Wikipedia states the following about this phrase:  “‘It’s the economy, stupid’” was a phrase in American politics widely used during Bill Clinton’s successful 1992 presidential campaign against George H. W. Bush.  For a time, Bush was considered unbeatable because of foreign policy developments such as the end of the Cold War and the Persian Gulf War. The phrase, coined by Clinton campaign strategist James Carville, refers to the notion that Clinton was a better choice because Bush had not adequately addressed the economy, which had recently undergone a recession.”

Is it always about the money? You would think so if you listened to the politicians. But there are far more important issues.

Morals and ethics have gone downhill at a hugely accelerated rate in the last 10-15 years in the UK. Just think about these issues: Practicing homosexuality is now allowed and even promoted. If you quote the Bible where it says that it is an “abomination” and a “perversion” (these are God’s Words), then you can be in serious trouble. Same sex couples are now allowed in the UK to “marry.” Unfortunately, the new government, following the routine as instituted by their predecessors, last month invited “Gay Pride” to a reception at 10 Downing Street. On the 11th June, Downing Street was quoted as saying that the reception was a “celebration” of the achievements of gay equality campaigners. A spokesman said: “Ahead of a summer of Prides, it will be a recognition of the importance gay people play in national life.” A new government but the same old acceptance, approval and promotion of a practice that God calls an “abomination” (see Leviticus 18:22; 20:13).  Of course, this same attitude is prevalent in the United States and in many European countries—all under the “cover” of “loving” and “tolerant Christianity.” The spirit of Sodom and Gomorrah is alive and kicking today—with no knowledge of God and His ways (see Hosea 4:1-2).

The previous UK government’s deputy Prime Minister said: “Families come in all shapes and sizes. We don’t favour one way of family life over another.”  (President Obama recently spoke approvingly about a family with “two fathers.”) There has been a serious assault on the family, and the Civitas think tank published a report in September of 2005 which said that parents can receive £4,000 more in handouts if they split up, and unemployed parents can be 35% better off if they split up. Married couples are penalised, financially, for staying together.

Britain leads Europe in teenage pregnancy—the government promotes safe sex rather than abstinence. Binge drinking has been allowed to escalate out of control and the opportunity for 24 hour drinking licences have been made available.  Drug use and abuse has become, and is part of the fabric of society.  Excessive gambling—especially by those who can least “afford” it—has been encouraged by the introduction of super casinos. Smacking children can be penalised by jail, but drug pushers can be let off with a caution.

Many, if not most schools are hot beds of behavioural disruption with bullying endemic in many areas, and drug taking by many young children. Teachers and police can be hamstrung in being able to use sensible discipline with troublemakers taking advantage of the situation. Of course, we are aware of and do not advocate in the least, police brutality and physical or even sexual abuse of children through teachers and priests—sadly, these terrible developments have also become part of our modern “Christian” societies.

Blasphemy is everywhere and is accepted as the norm in every strata of society. Words which were not allowed to be uttered in television programmes for adults are now commonplace in programmes for children. There is the continual pandering to Islam—an unbiblical practice that is contrary to the teachings and commandments of the God of your Bible.

We now have such an embedded compensation culture that many people are frightened to do anything in case they are sued.  Europe is allowed to dictate so that our laws are subservient to those of Europe and where the human rights act often favours the villains rather than the victims. I could give many more examples.

There is a huge difference between fiscal and moral and ethical issues. The government, for many years now, has concentrated on the fiscal and ignored, to a great extent, the moral and ethical dimensions of our society. Edward Gibbons’ well-known set of books, “The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire,” asserts that one of the causes of the decline and fall of the Roman Empire was the dissolution of the family. Do we never learn from history?  Apparently not!

I did mention in a recent editorial (in Update 444 on 28th May 2010) that “In the soon coming Kingdom, the ways of God will be practiced. And families—properly constituted Godly families—will once again be the bedrock of society. That will be a time when the disintegration of the family will be left well behind and society will benefit enormously when God imposes His rules which will be, as always, for the benefit of all of mankind.”

Will our new coalition government in the UK review the moral collapse in our society and address these important issues? Certainly, there have been comments about “our broken society,” but a meeting of minds between the politicians and true Christians is not likely to bear much fruit.  When the UK deputy Prime Minister is an atheist and “not a man of faith,” he is hardly likely to influence policy with true Christian ideals.

The world has been going the wrong way for the last 6,000 years, and new Presidents and Prime Ministers, however well intentioned, will not hold back the tide of evil that is sweeping through the nations. The optimism that usually greets a new leader can very often fade rather quickly when it is realized that the problems in society are greater than their ability to solve them. This is even assuming that the political candidates did not just make idle promises to get into power, never intending to keep their word, and knowing full well that they would not. Sadly, far too often, this has been the modus operandi of many politicians. It is hardly surprising, really, when we understand that Satan, the arch-deceiver, is the god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4) and the prince of the power of the air (Ephesians 2:2).

In just over two months’ time, we will be preparing to keep the annual Feast of Tabernacles, which is commanded by God (Leviticus 23:33-44). It is not an option, but a command to attend in person the daily worship services, unless we have serious health problems or other considerations that preclude us from doing so. And that is a time that gives us encouragement and hope that things will be better for all of mankind, not just for our own nation, in the not too distant future. It is a joyful time to look forward to when properly constituted government will be from the top down, with those ruling, having qualified to do so over a lifetime of testing and trials. It will be a time when the current problems, anxiety and ultimate demise of our nations will be reversed (please read our booklets “The Fall and Rise of Britain and America” and “Human Suffering—Why… And How Much Longer?”). A time when joy will be unconfined and the future will be rosy—very unlike today.

I would reword that slogan of Mr Clinton’s campaign this way: “It’s much more than the economy, stupid!” There will be so much re-education to do in the World Tomorrow when true values will be restored. Politicians of today will be a thing of the past, and government will be run righteously. By what has been happening in society, not only in more recent times but over the millennia, there will be much work to be done! And that is what God’s people are preparing for now—to be in government, but it will be a government of which our leaders today have no knowledge.

With Christian love,

Brian Gale
United Kingdom