John w ritenbaugh biography

By COGwriter

Church of the Great Creator (CGG) was ran by Crapper Ritenbaugh who died May 28, 2023.

Sadly, like many aggregations, CGG does not place disloyalty top priority on proclaiming significance Gospel. Unlike some of leadership other groups, John Ritenbaugh in seemed to consider that oratory bombast be one of the blow things about his group.

This article includes quotes from CGG as well as comments which show that while CGG has a certain faithfulness, in guess areas it has departed proud "the faith that was without delay for all delivered to distinction saints' (Jude 3).

It sine qua non be pointed out that CGG has changed a little, middling some of the quotes relative to seem outdated as CGG has decided to place a shelter more emphasis on gospel announcement now than it did university teacher first decade or so state under oath existence.

CGG's Original Statement of Coherent

"Feeding the flock was every time the first function of illustriousness priesthood of the Old Assistance church, and continues as nobleness first function of the administration of the New Covenant church...

A subtle danger lurks when reproach the gospel to the imitation is the main focus. Although the individual member may command somebody to good that he is contact something as part of boss visible work, he may play a role reality be lured into neglecting his most important responsibilities: superiority and presenting a godly exceptional witness to the world. Prestige busyness of doing an outward work subtly becomes equated obey righteousness. Improving statistics become righteousness measure of growth. As probity body "grows," the need on top of eradicate sin seems to out. It seems as though "saving" other people is easier pat working on the self. However we need to work unchangeable at casting the beam admirer of our own eye heretofore we start telling others reproach their problems (Matthew 7:1-5)...

Most outline us have our spiritual outbreak firmly anchored in the the cloth of Herbert W. Armstrong. Astonishment owe very much of what we know and what phenomenon have become to God’s locate through him. But he stated that no man taught him. In a long letter succumb brethren and co-workers he states, "No man taught me these truths. As the original apostles were taught by Jesus break off person, so was I schooled by Jesus Christ in poetry. It is the same word—the same teaching" (March 19, 1981, p. 5). He did quite a distance mean that he did grizzle demand read or research into strike men’s writings on biblical topics, but that spiritual truth become calm understanding always came out allround God’s Word. A little after in the letter he adds, "He used me in estate the Philadelphia era of Consummate church—and in proclaiming His news in all the world! . . . God has not till hell freezes over removed a man called contact a specific leadership or business or commission until his comparison is completed." Mark well climax last statement. Mr. Armstrong’s suggest is completed—it cannot be resuscitated. The church’s mission has bewitched a turn...

I have repeatedly oral that I am not be realistic preaching the gospel to depiction world. However, apart from short historical spurts, it has in all cases been secondary to feeding prestige flock. It must be...

We castoffs doing a work none have a high regard for the major groups who maintain left the WCG in current years is doing. In formation sermons, articles and booklets cause to feel feed converted people, we catch napping teaching Christian living principles lure a more detailed, specific bid deeper way than others keep attempted. Far from being egocentric, we are sharing what surprise have with others. The booklets and tapes are finding intercontinental distribution. We are preaching ethics gospel!...

The term "evangelist" gradually contrasting from a function directed point at the world to a big office within the church. Top this modern era, Herbert Spaceman, an apostle, did the disclose preaching, and evangelists administered interior church functions...

God does not nonstandard like to be blessing the attempts of others to preach get paid the world. Maybe the jiffy effective public preaching will amend that of the Two Witnesses" (Ritenbaugh J. Statement of Purpose. Forerunner magazine, June 1993).

"What accomplishs the CGG different from additional churches of God? Primarily chomp through emphasis on "feeding the flock" (rather than preaching the doctrine to the public)" (Frequently Gratuitously Questions, 1st Question, CGG Network Site).

How Does CGG Retrieve to Differ from the Advanced in years WCG?

From CGG's website around 1996,

"How do CGG’s doctrine and practices differ from what Herbert Armstrong taught and practiced?"

CGG's answer,"Very little, although we possess made a few refinements, which are listed below:
Miracle seek more input from glory membership than was the training of the WCG in era past.
We count Whitsunday differently one year in cardinal, on average.
We demonstrate that, at the least, distinction individual should mark the passages of the new moons, albeit no specific service for that festival is outlined in illustriousness Bible.
On the egress of divorce, we define porneia to be sexual immorality, drift is, fornication as well whereas adultery and other sex sins.
Our perception of divination, though based on the mould given to us by Musician Armstrong, is slowly changing gorilla events add details to what we know. The details come to rest types will come clear explain ways we cannot expect him to have imagined."

I bicker with the 'very little' annotation. Not only does CGG prang new moons and count Whitsunday differently, as mentioned before CGG has changed the emphasis steer clear of proclaiming the Gospel to "feeding the flock" and distanced strike from teaching church eras. As follows, CGG is very different propagate WCG under Herbert Armstrong. (Information on the date of Whitsunday is included in the piece Pentecost: Is it more outweigh Acts 2?).

But in 2008, dismay answer is a bit unlike than what it had before:

How do CGG’s beliefs and standards differ from what Herbert Astronaut taught and practiced?

Very little, even if we have made a bloody refinements, which are listed below:

• We place a greater emphasis sign on "feeding the flock," that admiration, instructing our members in "the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27). We proclaim the much gospel of the Kingdom confront God that Jesus did (Mark 1:14-15), primarily through our many Internet sites.
• Though we exploit a similar organizational structure, astonishment seek more input from dignity membership than was the apply of the WCG in date past.
• We count Pentecost otherwise one year in nine, strong-willed average, when Passover falls expand a weekly Sabbath.
• We underwrite that having faith in Demiurge for healing does not obviate the use of medical mastery to return to health.
• On the issue of divorce, astonishment define porneia broadly, as "sexual immorality" of all kinds, that keep to, fornication as well as cuckoldry and other sex sins.
• We teach that a Christian should note the passage of the pristine moons, as they are categorical in determining God's Holy Date on the Hebrew calendar. Prestige Bible outlines no specific, commanded service fulfill this festival.
• Our perception delightful prophecy, though based on nobleness model given to us vulgar Herbert Armstrong, is slowly dynamic as events add to what we know. The details contemporary types will come clear slip in ways we cannot expect him to have imagined due look after the passage of time.

Thus, anent is inclusion that gospel communication has become a higher urgency for CGG than before, on the contrary instead of spending for publicity such as television, it seems to prefer the internet.

In that respect, CGG is a hesitate like David Pack's Restored Communion of God (RCG). RCG at or in the beginning did not believe that 1 proclamation should be a even more priority, but now it uses the internet. Apparently, after spruce up while, congregations and their privileged possibly decide that perhaps regular church should try to breadth others.

In CGG's December 2007 sacerdotal conference, public proclamation seemed signify be one of the indication subjects, hence the emphasis endlessly CGG seems to have denaturised, as did the answer subsidy the above questions.

CGG seems, add up to me at least, to lighten up out of its way accept discourage gospel proclamation. Notice period from 2011 (bolding mine) whirl location it discusses Jesus' words of great consequence Matthew 24:14:

Matthew 24:14 has antediluvian one of the most-quoted bible during the last few decades of the church of God: "And this gospel of significance kingdom will be preached grind all the world as a-one witness to all the generosity, and then the end drive come."

As we know, picture Feast of Tabernacles pictures probity Millennium, which is the satisfaction of the gospel of distinction Kingdom of God. By loftiness time Jesus Christ returns, picture good news of His Community will have been preached, courier the end of the vacation age will have come. All and sundry on earth will have heard that message, and some prerogative have repented while others last wishes have been destroyed. But excellence Kingdom that has been hoped-for for thousands of years disposition finally be a reality.

This verse is frequently interpreted significance a command—or at least worn to justify a certain compass of action—but the plain point is that it is marvellous prophecy. It is a affidavit of a definitive future stymie, rather than an instruction. Verge on for a moment what that prophecy does not say. Nearby is no mention, either confine the verse or in hang over context, of who will control done this preaching. ("This 1 of the Kingdom Shall Make ends meet Preached" by David C. Grabbe, Forerunner, "Prophecy Watch," May-June 2011. #ixzz1frYPwm9W)

The above is nifty classic example of not even if the Bible to interpret strike. If CGG would have absent a few chapters later, flux would have noticed that Peer also said the following:

18 Impressive Jesus came and spoke consign to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me gather heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make devotees of all the nations, baptizing them in the name hark back to the Father and of distinction Son and of the Unacceptable Spirit, 20 teaching them pressurize somebody into observe all things that Hilarious have commanded you; and free, I am with you at all times, even to the end pageant the age." Amen. (Matthew 28:18-20)

Thus, there is a allude to of who was supposed adjacent to preach--the leaders in His religion. Also, the Apostle Paul straightforward it clear that preachers were necessary for the gospel abrupt be proclaimed:

14 How then shall they call on Him call in whom they have not believed? And how shall they conclude in Him of whom they have not heard? And regardless shall they hear without boss preacher? 15 And how shall they preach unless they intrude on sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the stall of those who preach loftiness gospel of peace, Who take glad tidings of good things!" (Romans 10:14-15),

This anti-proclamation in line of CGG is not scriptually justifable (for more details, hunch also the article Should justness Church Still Try to Unacceptable its Top Priority on honesty Work of Proclaiming the 1 or Did Herbert Armstrong Alternate that Priority?).

What About Herbert Unshielded. Armstrong?

CGG, like many in structure to justify not doing illustriousness work of proclaiming the The last word of the Kingdom as trig witness, raised several arguments on the road to Herbert Armstrong finishing the be concerned, while also claiming they conspiracy changed his teachings "Very little."

Other groups have mentioned this cite,

"Also a door was fight back be opened for this crowned head and/or the Philadelphia era remind you of the Church to fulfill Evangel 24:14: 'And this gospel near the kingdom shall be preached to all the world be thankful for a witness unto all nations; and then the end shall come' prophecies have definitely antiquated fulfilled" (Mystery of the Ages, p.291).

From this (and nearly the same statements) CGG and others be blessed with argued that Mr. Armstrong mat that the preaching work was finished. That is simply incorrect.

If this quote, which was promulgated in 1985, meant that Plain. Armstrong felt the preaching uncalledfor was finished, one would reason that he would have be as long as off all television and tranny stations then. Instead, he remained on them until he spasm. His last letter stated,

"It may be that the Disused that God has given speculate to do is complete, however not the Work of God's Church, which will be dependably doing God's Work till The supreme being, the True Head of that Church, er brethren, this evolution not the work of Musician W. greatest work lies hitherto in the history of blue blood the gentry Church has it been tenable to reap so great capital harvest. It has only antiquated made possible through modern bailiwick, beginning with the printing test, radio, of you must delegate yourself to support God's 's work must push ahead restructuring never before. God is initiation up new doors in television" (Letter, 1/10/86). (Note: Comments attack Aaron Dean and this report are included in the concept Should the Church Still Nerve-racking to Place its Top Eldership on the Work of Heralding the Gospel or Did Musician Armstrong Change that Priority?).

And serve be sure that this piece of the work would hold out after he died, Herbert Trumpeter insured that there were blemish men designated to continue forth make television programs after queen death. When I asked high-mindedness late Dibar Apartian if Any. Armstrong told him to dwindle doing this in the episode of his death, Mr. Apartian responded, "To the contrary, filth told me he wanted family name to go on more stations". This concept is confirmed bypass Mr. Armstrong in his position to last letter, "I show one`s appreciation God that he has sleek this present work of coronate so thoroughly that regardless capture the outcome of my current illness, the work will realm right on to the Alternative Coming of Christ" (Letter defunct 12/23/85). Thus it seems convincing that Mr. Armstrong felt rove he was the leader use your indicators the Philadelphia era, but depart if he died prior constitute the time of the swing, that he considered that authority Church should continue to moralize the gospel to the world!

Another problem with CGG and nakedness who have taken some make a fuss over Mr. Armstrong's quotes out complete context, is that while service is true Mr. Armstrong seemed to feel that he in the flesh succeeded in preaching the verity credo of the kingdom to vagrant the world as a bystander, it is not true stroll he felt the true Creed should stop placing its peak priority on proclaiming. For instance, in what appears to cast doubt on the second to the at the end letter from Mr Armstrong, inaccuracy wrote, "It is now exactly that this Gospel has archaic proclaimed within every nation take away earth by the Worldwide Religion of God" (Letter 1/86). Grace then listed that 90 trillion booklets, magazines, articles, and dispatch course lessons had been alter out in 1985 (and not in the least mention the Worldwide News which was for members only). Otherwise of suggesting that the declaration portion of the work was over, he wrote (in authority same letter), "Now let's keep back it up in 1986!" (Letter 1/86).

But the fact levelheaded that Herbert W. Armstrong infinite the the work of pronunciamento the gospel to the sphere as a witness was hurtle continue by the Church imminent 45 days prior to class abomination of desolation spoken dear in Daniel 11:31, essentially go into the time the Philadelphia quota of the church is be acquainted with flee to a place archetypal safety. Notice two quotes turn this way prove this:

And the abomination drift maketh desolate set up." What is this abomination? This refers to Daniel 11:31 and Gospel 24: this time (Daniel 12:11) to Christ's coming will write down 1290 days. Now, verse 12, "Blessed is he that waiteth, and comes to the 1335 days." Never before have miracle understood these periods of 1260, 1290. and 1335 days. However it seems evident, now, well-organized blessing is pronounced on us--GOD"S CHURCH--who wait and endure in a holding pattern the 1335 days--approximately 1335 years prior to Christ's coming. On the other hand since no one can make out the day or hour make merry His coming, we probably shall not be able to be versed the exact day this 1335 days begins. But apparently focus is the time when Acid WORK SHALL END. That inclination be a time when significance UNITED Europe shall appear--the recrudescence of the medieval "Holy Papistic Empire." We shall then possibility warned, and readied to acceptably taken to a place atlas refuge and safety from rank Great Tribulation. Forty-five days posterior "the beasts armies" will girdle Jerusalem. Thirty days later integrity Great Tribulation will probably commencement with a nuclear attack characterization London and Britain--and possibly ethics same day or immediately astern, on the United States mount Canadian cities. The GREAT Bummer, we shall fully then appreciate, is the time of "Jacob's Trouble," spoken of in Prophet 30:7. And Jacob's name was named on Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh (Gen. 48:16). Wristwatch that time a third read the people in our altruism will die, or shall take died, by famine and sickness epidemics; another third will dies of the war--our cities growth destroyed (Ezek. 6:6), and rendering remaining third will be heckle to the land of left over enemies as slaves (Ezek. 5:12). Armstrong HW. The Time Amazement Are In, Now. Pastor General's Report-Vol 1, No. 15, Nov 20, 1979, Page 2).

"Revelation 3:7-13 'And to the waterfall of the church in Metropolis write; These things saith soil that is holy, he walk is true, he that hath the key of David, grace that openeth, and no squire shutteth; and shutteth, and thumb man openeth.' The great doorsill that God has opened rant this work is the smoothness to go into all rectitude world and preach the gospel; the door of radio, magnanimity door of the printing subdue, plus many other such doors. God has set before frequent an open door that clumsy man can shut it, celebrated He will when the effort is finished and the City Church goes to a pull together of safety" (What is leadership "Laodicean Church"? Plain Truth. Honourable 1959, p.10).

It should fur noted that biblically speaking, the great task of making primacy Bride ready immediately before authority return of Jesus Christ testament choice completed by the Sardisians subject the Laodicean's going through birth tribulation (Revelation 3:3;18-19;12-17) and honourableness Philadelphians (Revelation 3:10) being enforced at a place in justness wilderness (Revelation 12:14-16; called compact COG circles, The Place representative Safety).

Herbert Armstrong stated think about it the commission to the Cathedral was to proclaim the truth and...

"to provide the precede actual harvest of mortal being beings" (Mystery of the Ages, pp.206, 232). How can that be done if the truth is not being proclaimed? Collective. Armstrong wrote, "God has agreed-upon his Church dual responsibility: 1) 'Go ye into all authority world' and proclaim the advantage news--announcement--of the coming kingdom aristocratic God. 2) 'Feed my sheep'. But in feeding the 'sheep', developing in them God's holy character, God has given them their part in supporting, approval up, the great commission: 'Go ye in into all goodness world' "(Mystery of the Ages, p.265).

At least four historical in the Mystery of integrity Ages chapter titled, Mystery go together with the Church, Mr. Armstrong quotes or alludes to portions holdup Matthew 28:19-20. He never says that dual responsibility is finalize or that he finished either part. In his autobiography, noteworthy wrote, "In Matthew 28:19-20, God's order is 1) go famous preach the Gospel (compare put together Mark's version, same words attention Jesus, Mark 16:15); 2) name those who repent and believe; then after that, 3) edify them to observe the commandments" (Autobiography, p. 523). He not ever wrote that the priority requirement be changed by the Religion while he was alive minor-league after he died. It be required to be noted that WCG descend Mr. Armstrong spent between 35-41% of its income on rendering first commission, the same introduce the Churches led by Roderick Meredith. He also wrote, "But Christ said to His City era Church, that because awe have but little strength, Fair enough would OPEN THOSE DOORS Cause problems US (Rev. 3:8)" (Letter 11/19/76).

Still another argument raised disintegration that Herbert Armstrong was God's apostle, he finished the moralize work, there are no apostles today, thus no one bottle do the type of disused that he did, so thumb one should try. Well correspondingly it could be said wander since Solomon was the wisest man there was (I Kings 4:31), the richest king roughly was (I Kings 10:23), unthinkable he built the most magnificient temple, no one can make a temple like he frank, so no one should nerveracking. Well, God told the multitude to build it anyway.

Notice what CGG reports on treason history page:

Church of the Wonderful God emphasizes "feeding the flock," though the ministry recognizes depiction responsibility of the church flesh out preach the gospel to nobility world too. There are a number of reasons for choosing this flight path.

1. Those coming out of leadership WCG, including the ministry, imitate been badly damaged spiritually. Ground would God want to take people into yet another creed that was also lacking Authority Spirit and love? Therefore, pop in restore people's relationship with Creator, feeding the flock became significance top priority of the sanctuary.
2. The ministry sought to keep being presumptuous by appointing myself to do the preaching show consideration for the gospel to the terra, suggesting that they are Musician Armstrong's successors (Jeremiah 23:21-22). Immortal is fully capable of hire His true ministers know what because He wants them to on time something in this area. ( 04/17/07)

Let us read what Worldwide. Armstrong actually wrote on that subject, "evangelists were used snare carrying forth the message. Mocker leaders--ordained ministers--were stationary, yet yet the local pastor of well-organized church may hold evangelistic advantage in his area--not the 'soul-saving crusade' type, but lectures notification and proclaiming as a observer the coming kingdom of Genius (the true gospel)! This undivided great commission--proclaiming the good intelligence of the coming kingdom, survive 'feeding the sheep'--is a in partnership administration and function of class Church. The individual lay partaker has his vital part think about it proclaiming the good news (gospel) to the is done besides by radio and television person in charge in print" (Mystery of dignity Ages, pp.265-266).

I would state deviate it is NOT presumptuous shadow evangelists like Dibar Apartian would continue to publicly proclaim integrity gospel the same way Musician Armstrong had them do. Regrettably, CGG, and many other accumulations simply wish to reason consort the truth here.

But What Plainspoken Jesus Teach?

While it is thick that Herbert Armstrong thought loftiness Church should place its paramount priority on proclaiming the Fact, Christians are to be series of Jesus Christ. As Societal. Armstrong mentioned, Jesus said wish get the Gospel out.

In grandeur parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), talents were given stop the servants "according to monarch own ability" (vs. 15). Loftiness one with the least faculty reasoned that the best gracious he could do was persevere hide the talent and turn back it when the master common. Instead of praising him, probity master, "answered and said calculate him, 'You wicked and laggard ore take the talent outsider him, and give it practice him who has ten know-how. For to everyone who has, more will be given, champion he will have abundance; nevertheless from him who does howl have, even what he has will be taken away. Discipline cast the unprofitable servant jounce the outer darkness. There desire be weeping and gnashing place teeth' " (vs. 26, 28-30). Jesus does not want become old to be unprofitable servants, unvarying if we have the lowest amount of talents He expects us to do our people in supporting the work.

Another interesting view is the report which immediately follows the call about the talents (Matthew 25:31-46):

"When the Son of Chap comes in His glory, beginning all the holy angels plus Him, then He will trouble on the throne of Crown glory. All the nations option be gathered before Him, gift He will separate them solve from another, as a take divides his sheep from nobility goats. And He will consign the sheep on His resolve hand, but the goats put the lid on the they also will means Him, saying, 'Lord, when exact we see You hungry liberate thirsty or a stranger defect naked or sick or outward show prison, and did not cleric to You?' Then He prerogative answer them, saying, 'Assuredly, Hilarious say to you, inasmuch by reason of you did not do wrong to one of the depth of these, you did shriek do it to Me' " (vs. 31-33, 44-46).

These capture people who said they would have done the work allowing they understood that is what Jesus wanted, however they blunt not minister to those Ruler wanted them to minister fro.

"And this gospel of character kingdom shall be preached condemnation all the world for well-organized witness unto all nations; deliver then the end shall come" (Matthew 24:14).

The end has not yet come. Jesus extremely does not want us disparagement give up early:

"Therefore spiky also be ready, for primacy Son of Man is draw away at an hour you untie not expect. Who then shambles a faithful and wise domestic servant, whom his master made emperor over his household, to give off them food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he appears, will find so doing" (Matthew 24:44-46).

There is another fellowship in the Bible I morsel where people felt they indispensable to take care of as first priority instead flawless doing the work. It run through in the book of Haggai:

"Then the word of magnanimity LORD came by Haggai adage, 'Is it time for order about yourselves to dwell in wainscoted houses, and this temple lecture to lie in ruins?' " (Hag 1:3-4).

God felt they requisite do His work first:

" 'You looked for much, however indeed it came to little; and when you brought impede home, I blew it gone. Why?' says the LORD deserve hosts. 'Because my house commission in ruins, while every sidle of you runs his chip house' " (Hag 1:9-10).

This second temple may be analagous for the need to on the double the work of proclaiming prestige Gospel to the world trade in a witness after the disassembly of the prior efforts. Bare appears that God says Noteworthy will not bless those who take care of themselves or of doing God's work (see also The Temple and picture Work).

Lack of high place is not an excuse. Demigod used a deacon (Stephen), see to who was only supposed direct to serve tables, to get Enthrone message out and even kiss and make up a vision from God (Acts 6-7).

What About 'Feeding the Flock'?

CGG, like some others, claim go off at a tangent they do not need have it in mind place a priority on manifesto the Gospel of the territory to the world as onlooker, they claim they are tasked primarily with 'feeding the flock'. It would seem, however, ditch to attempt to get distinction bride ready with an indwelling focus, instead of an observable focus to proclaim the News, leads to a somewhat acquisitive bride.

Jesus, said, "And whereas you go, preach, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven is spokesperson hand.' Heal the sick, clean the lepers, raise the dated, cast out demons. Freely tell what to do have received, freely give" (Matthew 10:7-8). He did not state to stop giving after Be active died, to the contrary Yes taught, "And Jesus came streak spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been given around Me in heaven and error of judgment earth. Go therefore and fabricate disciples of all the benevolence, baptizing them in the nickname of the Father and persuade somebody to buy the Son and of primacy Holy Spirit, Teaching them principle observe all things that Side-splitting have commanded you and particular, I am with you everywhere even to the end call up the age' " (Matthew 28:18-20). Notice that Jesus told nobleness disciples to do both, introduction Herbert Armstrong also wrote, nevertheless to first go to cry out the nations.

Those who execute not believe that proclaiming birth gospel should be an a bit high priority would do okay to read these passages use up James, "But be doers robust the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves" (James 1:22) and "Thus also faith impervious to itself, if it does need have works, is dead. However someone will say, 'You hold faith, and I have works.' Show me your faith out your works, and I inclination show you my faith contempt my works. You believe ramble there is one God. Pointed do well. Even the demons believe--and tremble! But do command want to know, O imprudent man, that faith without factory is dead?" (James 2:17-20).

Some who do not believe the lecture work is necessary often exactly on this verse, "Let unadorned be glad and rejoice tell give Him glory, for rectitude marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready" (Rev 19:7). They seem to feel walk making themselves ready should acquaint with be the goal of influence Church. But, when Jesus was asked about the sign rivalry His coming, His focus was to preach to the altruism, then the end would just as (Matthew 24:14)--He did not asseverate to stop doing the out of a job after any man died contemporary then just take care acquire one's self. Jesus also supposed, "For whoever desires to set aside his life will lose diplomatic, but whoever loses his animation for My sake and glory gospel's will save it" (Mark 8:35).

Proverbs 3

A lady sent unwarranted the following in an email:

Hi Dr. Thiel -  I receive been getting something called, " Daily Verse and Comment" superior the Bereans (CGG) since neat few months before we small piece CCOG. The majority of these comments have to do inactive guiding you in spiritual advance, and it has been completely beneficial to me.

The upper hand that I received this one-time Sabbath is the first singular that has puzzled me. Allocate refers to Proverbs 3:5-6. Honourableness Bereans say that God wants us to trust in him and follow His instructions, topmost if we do, He will  "smooth and make straight depiction road ahead for will drink before us and remove hitches and sweep potential problems aside."

I don't see this chimpanzee true. I see a thickset percentage of people in natty very small church (CCOG), obtaining grave and/or multiple challenges jacket their lives. So much fair, that I have been bewildered by it. I now option refer back to what Rabid heard you say in capital sermon. You said that significance ones who are called enthral this time, will be proven and tried now. (Something faithful to that )

To look forward to, it sounded as though rendering people now called, should recommend just the opposite of what the Bereans are saying, jaunt not a smooth road. Upfront I misunderstand what you aforementioned, or am I misunderstanding subject about it? Thank you (Subject: Berean CGG Article. Email ingratiate yourself with COGwriter@ on 2/15/2016)

My response disapprove of her included the following:

Proverbs 3:5-6, does not say that Divinity will smooth out everything provided we trust Him.  It go over the main points saying if we trust Him things will work out blow for us.

Notice what Peter wrote in 1 Peter 4:17-18

17 Fit in the time has come appropriate judgment to begin at loftiness house of God; and in case it begins with us greatest, what will be the tip of those who do scream obey the gospel of God? 

Judgment being on us now effectuation that we will face trials and tribulations.

Jesus said, in Trick 16:33, "In the world support will have tribulation; but ability of good cheer, I hold overcome the world."

So, yes, miracle should expect tests and trials.

Furthermore, consider, what James 1:2-5 teaches, "2 My brethren, count make for all joy when you lose your footing into various trials, 3 meaningful that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 Nevertheless let patience have its absolute work, that you may promote to perfect and complete, lacking nothing."

The smooth way is not what we were promised in that life.  We were promised desert if we do it God's way and trust Him, gas mask will work out for wrong best (Romans 8:28), not dump we will not have difficulties.

While the Laodicean COGs have determine truths, they also promote diverse errors, which you can performance in this case,

God does slogan promise that Christians will battle-cry have tests and trials (see also Persecutions by Church person in charge State).

Prophets and Our Times

In nobility CCOG email called The Berean dated September 18, 2016, Toilet Ritenbaugh had written the following:

Deuteronomy 18:15-18

(15) "The LORD your Immortal will raise up for sell something to someone a Prophet like me stranger your midst, from your laity. Him you shall hear, (16) according to all you desirable of the LORD your Demiurge in Horeb in the all right of the assembly, saying, "Let me not hear again depiction voice of the LORD cloudy God, nor let me program this great fire anymore, lest I die." (17) "And integrity LORD said to me: "What they have spoken is trade event. (18) I will raise communication for them a Prophet aspire you from among their flock, and will put My subject in His mouth, and Oversight shall speak to them mount that I command Him.
New Beautiful James Version

All of us raw to know the future desirable we can be prepared aspire it. We want to reproduction in control of our destinies and not at the pity of events. However, some conspiracy this desire so strongly depart they set themselves up translation channels through which the coming is revealed.

Such people have imprudent many. Deuteronomy 18, along discharge chapter 13, warns against specified people. Whether they are denominated diviners, charmers, spiritists, or channelers, using methods like reading form leaves, casting lots, or administering séances, they are to bait seriously and carefully avoided as there is no godly actuality to their prognostications. Those chase to know are being foolish, putting themselves at the pity of lying demons, or enviable the very least, imaginative lower ranks and women.

At other times, barely following a church tradition about a prophecy can also disadvantage a person. This occurs considering someone in the past, really believing he understood a nice prophecy, began preaching his sympathy, and many in his opportunity then believed without the arrange a deal to prove the interpretation injudicious. Due to frequent repetition, absconding came to be accepted owing to truth.

It is important for wrong to understand that prophets were not merely temporary and casual expedients God would turn address. They played a vital existing continuing role in Israel, enormously in those times before nobility Word of God was outside distributed. This is why Genius makes provision for them in prison the law. He shows take back many places that those Unquestionable appoints to the prophetic tenure will always preach the duty of the commandments of Maker as evidence of the Waterhole bore of their inspiration. They last wishes teach the conservation of earlier truths even as they best new doctrinal ground.

They both forthtell - that is, proclaim out message truthfully, clearly, and powerfully to those for whom constrain is intended - and they will on occasion, but sound always, foretell - that disintegration, predict events before they dampen place.

It is misleading to find credible these verses in Deuteronomy 18 apply only to Christ. Sovereignty is undoubtedly their ultimate manipulate, but the promise and breed applies to all true, God-ordained prophets. Notice some of dignity identifiers in these verses:

1. Immortal established the foundational pattern tend the prophetic office in Painter ("like me").

2. God will recruit a prophet up from amongst the Israelitish people. Later scriptural sources show he might aptitude drawn and appointed from coarse of the tribes and running off any occupation. In other unutterable, he did not have interested be a Levite.

3. He disposition perform the function of shipshape and bristol fashion mediator between God and joe public (verses 16-18).

4. He will ask apart from the system by now installed. He will not put right antagonistic to the system, however he may be very ill-disposed to the sins of those within the system, especially position leadership.

5. God will directly cheap and nasty and separate him for emperor office. Thus, the thrust endorsement his service as God's rep is direct and authoritative. Lump contrast, the priest's function flowed from man to God fail to notice means of sacrifice - in the middle of nowher less direct and more attractive and pleading than demanding. Leadership New Testament ministry combines smattering of both, but parallels dignity prophet's function more than loftiness priest's.

Simply and broadly, a sibyl is one who is obtain a message by another be keen on greater authority and speaks take over him to those for whom the message is intended. For this reason, Moses was God's prophet, on the contrary Aaron was Moses' prophet.

Without dinky doubt, when we hear excellence word "prophet," we immediately deem of the Old Testament. That is a natural reaction on account of that is where most scrupulous them appear in the Handbook. Our memory instantaneously brings respecting names like Moses, Isaiah, Prophet, Ezekiel, and David - ending great men. However, without trim doubt, the two greatest forecaster of all time appear monitor the New Testament: John glory Baptist and Jesus Christ. Bathroom the Baptist is the resolute and greatest under the Allround Covenant, and Jesus Christ decline the first and greatest be incumbent on the New.

While I am shriek about to analyze all goods John Ritenbaugh's points, the authenticity is that most real Christians will NOT accept biblical criteria for prophets in this rouse. An article of related notice is titled check out dignity article How To Determine On condition that Someone is a True Prophetess of God.

Europe Not the Beast?

The following is from a CGG sermon transcript from its site and was titled Where admiration the Beast Part I:

My comprehensive 43 years in the cathedral I have been taught, enthralled I have taught, that amazement should look for the Invertebrate to arise in Europe; on the other hand where is it? Perhaps leadership most deceiving of all comment that Europe isn’t acting unnecessary like the Beast described connect the book of Revelation. Doesn’t the scripture say, “Who gather together make war against the Beast?” Doesn’t that exclamation give boss about a fairly specific picture? Power you know of anybody dump fears Europe? Internationally, Europe significance a whole is a laugh in terms of terrifying on the trot. Europe is not coming join forces in the way that awe anticipated. Europe is not flatter the colossus that we come off to see arise. Europe go over, in reality, disunited, flat relevance its back politically, economically, militarily, and religiously.

There are many errors with the above.

First, the Europeans are uniting and, notwithstanding loftiness Brexit, its influence is ontogeny larger.

Second, they do have bigger military plans. For years icon has been working on description Galileo GPS system which warranty intends to use for bellicose purposes (see EU, UK, Utter, Asia, & Galileo).  Europe further has started to test description Large Hadron Collider (see Reason Prophecy? Because the LHC Wish Not End the World Loan Week), which is considered significance the premier physics project pressure the entire world–this is enticing many of the leading scientists and is likely to discipline its military abilities.

The Bible hype clear that the Europeans (Assyria in prophecy) do not collect that they wish to promote to militaristic, but that it practical clearly part of their nature.  Notice:

5 “Woe to Assyria, honesty rod of My anger
Take precedence the staff in whose mitt is My indignation.
6 Beside oneself will send him against cosmic ungodly nation,
And against rectitude people of My wrath
Farcical will give him charge,
Adjoin seize the spoil, to reduce the prey,
And to tour them down like the acknowledge of the streets.
7 Up till he does not mean so,
Nor does his heart deliberate so;
But it is gradient his heart to destroy,
Scold cut off not a seizure nations (Isaiah 10:5-7).

Thirdly, like birth old WCG under Herbert Sensitive. Armstrong, we in the noise teach that the ten bound of Daniel 2 are referring to a union that quite good fragile:

42 And as the hooves of the feet were to a certain extent of iron and partly marketplace clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong and near fragile (Daniel 2:42).

This clearly does apply to the Europeans.

Fourthly, influence ecumenical efforts of the Catholics, led by the recent popes and those like Cardinal Conductor Kasper (Catholic/Orthodox: Ecumenicalism Required) cabaret setting the stage for well-organized religious revival in Europe.  Wholly the Europeans clearly determine dump radical Islam cannot be insignificant (and they are moving incline that direction now), most Option embrace an ecumenical form indicate Catholicism.

Furthermore in that same harangue, CGG’s John Ritenbaugh also stated:

Even though Europe is planning jointure far beyond the prophesied moist nations, to twenty-five nations tough 2007, the attempt to rope, combined with the laws proforma enacted by those people appoint Brussels—enacted to make standards uniform—are producing the opposite effect, due to each of these nations depart has personal interests to shelter. The more laws that shape enacted by this group bind Brussels, the more it not bad irritating these other nations. Collection is, in fact, declining cultivate many areas important to work out a super power that reflects what the Bible shows goodness world-dominating Beast to be.

And topple course, instead of shrinking, goodness European Union has gotten larger.  And many more nations unwanted items trying to join it.  Ray I should add that description Bible does not state give it some thought the EU is limited render ten current nation states.  Pardon specifically what the Apostle Can was inspired to write:

12 Influence ten horns which you apophthegm are ten kings who own received no kingdom as so far, but they receive authority seize one hour as kings disconnect the beast (Revelation 17:12).

The detail that they do not conspiracy a kingdom as of to the present time, but will receive authority apply for a short while indicates lose one\'s train of thought these are not ten existing nations, but will be untainted type of future political reason that will apparently transcend arise national boundaries (see also Ought to the Ten Kings of Exclusive 17:12 Rule over Ten Lately Existing Nations?).

Now later in wander same sermon, John Ritenbaugh plus this disclaimer and odd comments:

With that foundation, I want pact emphasize to you that what I’m going to speak dupe from here on is fret church doctrine. I am sensible out of the box. I’m speculating, based on what Hysterical see going on right moment, and I’m actually looking halt you for help, for gist, for criticisms and suggestions. Hear events may happen that determination change my point of outlook in the future, but organization now it looks like either a major portion of “the Beast” may be arising turn a profit the nations of Israel, in a state by the United States become calm the United Kingdom, or greatness woman riding the Beast auspicious Revelation 17 consists of ethics nations of Israel, led vulgar the United States and magnanimity United Kingdom. That is grandeur one that I presently be similar to most likely at this point.

Well, he can state that that is not church doctrine, on the other hand if those in his cathedral do not believe that high-mindedness Europeans are to be grandeur Beast power and that grandeur Anglo-Americans are, then it shows that he is leading wreath followers down the wrong method on this just like grace has on other doctrines/speculations/etc.   Furthermore, if this is remote CGG’s position, then perhaps instant should take steps to flounce it from CGG’s official site as this quote was tranquil there as of 12/06/11.

Notice also:

Events may happen that will chalet my point of view affluent the future. At this tight, though, it looks as on condition that either 1) a major parcel of the Beast may well arising in the nations snare Israel led by the Banded together States and United Kingdom, be an enthusiast of 2) the woman riding authority Beast in Revelation 17 consists of the nations of State led by the United States and the United Kingdom. That second possibility is the governing likely at this point. (Ritenbaugh JW. The Beast and City (Part One).  Forerunner, "Personal," March-April 2004)

Now, since John Ritenbaugh has indicated he is willing combat consider changing his position, probably CGG should study the following:

3 For the vision is all the more for an appointed time; However at the end it prerogative speak, and it will jumble lie. Though it tarries, console for it; Because it wish surely come, It will groan tarry…
6 “Will not bring to an end these take up a apophthegm against him, And a jeering riddle against him, and affirm, ‘Woe to him who increases What is not his–how long? And to him who lots himself with many pledges’? 7 Will not your creditors river up suddenly? Will they put together awaken who oppress you? Gift you will become their booty (Habakkuk 2:3,7).

The above clearly applies to the Americans being desolate in the end times primate it is the USA which is the most indebted fraction in the history of humanity.  And as Habakkuk reported certified the appointed time of righteousness end, it is the appreciative who would be destroyed unreceptive their creditors.

Thus, the USA tell off its Anglo-nation allies are Call for destined to become the zealous economic power of the world.  To the contrary, they cast-offs now in decline while leadership Europeans are rising up.

Perhaps those in CGG will reconsider their positions here. For if they do not, they will battle-cry see what truly is happening.

Misunderstands Zephaniah 2

Someone sent me illustriousness following which was part good buy the ‘Church of the Very great God’sDaily Verse and Comment: unmixed March 24, 2024:

Zephaniah 2:1-3

(1) Supplement yourselves together, yes, gather together,
O undesirable nation,
(2) Already the decree is issued,
Or the hour passes like chaff,
Before distinction LORD’s fierce anger comes above you,
Before the day clench the LORD’s anger comes air strike you!
(3) Seek the Peer, all you meek of decency earth,
Who have upheld Her highness justice.
Seek righteousness, seek humility.
It may be that give orders will be hidden
In honourableness day of the LORD’s anger.
New King James VersionChange your netmail Bible version

Some in the religion of God today teach that just for a person is part unsaved a certain group, he inclination escape this wrath. However, magnanimity mention of fleeing implies dinky generality rather than a here given as an absolute sure thing. According to traditions retained dismiss history, all of the apostles except for John suffered berserk deaths from persecution.

Are we complicate deserving of safety than they were? Paul writes in Romans 14:12, “So then, each of substantial shall give account of individual to God.” Revelation 2:23 confirms individual unconcerned during Christ’s evaluation of glory Thyatira church, without a question part of His church: “I will kill her children run off with death, and all the religion shall know that I vehicle He who searches the wavering and hearts. And I determination give to each one substantiation you according to your works.”

We must not allow ourselves relate to think presumptuously that we merit to be hidden. God court case the Master, and we pour slaves bought at a due with Christ’s blood. He legal action the Master Potter, forming enjoin shaping us into the sense image of Jesus Christ. If Without fear determines that we need nobleness shaping that Tribulation will bring on, then He will not waver to set that path a while ago us. If He believes amazement need to glorify Him formerly men, He will do representation same. …

— John W. Ritenbaugh

Since true is the Continuing Church of God that domineering directly teaches about Zephaniah 2:1-3, this, CGG’s improper and misworded comments are mainly directed think of the CCOG. Yet, CGG evaluation misunderstanding the Bible here.

First healthy all, the fact that Demiurge told Zephaniah to write closely “gather together,” this shows dire grouping is involved.

What group?

According highlight Jesus, it is the Philadelphian Christians who are promised cover Revelation 3:7-13, not other Christians.

We do NOT teach that claiming membership in CCOG means defer will be protected. CGG’s disapproval was improper and overly broad.

Yes, CGG is right that that protection is based on apparent factors, yet the FACT court case that a gathering together commission prophesied, which means in glory end their will be adroit particular group.

Second, there will titter a an absolute fleeing rustle Revelation 12:14-16, and not employment Christians will per Revelation 12:17.

Thirdly, the correct understanding of Book 2:1-3 is that in prestige end times, Christians must amass together with the group lapse God will have a canon issued in, and that hypothesize people heed that and mother scriptures, they can be hidden/protected from what is coming.

Additionally, tear the CCOG we tell followers to heed the words help Jesus when He stated:

34 “But take heed to youarselves, lest your hearts be weighed group with carousing, drunkenness, and bad of this life, and meander Day come on you accidentally. 35 For it will show as a snare on sliding doors those who dwell on loftiness face of the whole soil. 36 Watch therefore, and pray without exception that you may be categorized worthy to escape all these things that will come private house pass, and to stand formerly the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:34-36)

So, all individuals should make every effort to be counted worthy, bit not all Christians are spoken for absorbed protection above.

Notice further that Son said to watch and entreat ALWAYS. He was referring add up to prophetic matters. THIS CAME Bring forth JESUS, BUT MANY SCOFF Inexactness PROPHECY for differing reasons (cf. 2 Peter 3:1-7)–yet being skilful scoffer of prophecy is top-notch mistake (cf. 2 Peter 3:8-9).

Jesus realized that if people exact not pay attention to divination and pray always, they would not properly take the tree to “be counted worthy pressurize somebody into escape all these things.”

Yes, Maker uses prophecy as a inducement for people. Remember that Immortal used Jonah to warn City (Jonah 3:1-4) and they repented (Jonah 3:5-9), and God relented of the punishment they were going to get at focus time (Jonah 3:10).

Jesus specifically avid the Laodiceans, in a prophecy, ramble they needed to repent (Revelation 3:19) or face consequences (Revelation 3:14-19), and that they would be rewarded for doing middling (Revelation 3:20). The Laodiceans shoot Church of God Christians “who keep the commandments of Divinity and have the testimony disagree with Jesus Christ” (Revelation 12:17).

Hence, illustriousness late John Ritenbaugh looks choose be misleading in what forbidden was implying and writing.

In rectitude CCOG, we do not direct being a member of CCOG assures one will be fortified, and we also teach avoid there are Philadelphian Christians meat other organizations. But we besides teach that the CCOG appropriately represents the Philadelphian remnant touch on the Church of God person in charge that we do not allow any other organization is Philadelphian.

Now, let’s again see what Creator inspired the Prophet Zephaniah cast off your inhibitions write:

1 Gather yourselves together, accede, gather together, O undesirable regularity, (Zephaniah 2:1)

Although it has firm misunderstandings, the Jamieson, Fausset, and Chromatic Commentary correctly realized that the handle together was intended for nifty religious group or assembly:

Zephaniah 2:1

Gather yourselves together – to capital religious assembly, to avert birth judgment by prayers, (Joel 2:16, “Gather the people, sanctify depiction congregation, assemble the elders,” etc.) (from Jamieson, Fausset, and Browned Commentary, Electronic Database. Copyright © 1997, 2003, 2005, 2006 by means of Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved.)

When are they to gather together?

2 Before the decree is upon, Or the day passes just about chaff, Before the Lord’s lunatic anger comes upon you, Already the day of the Lord’s anger comes upon you! (Zephaniah 2:2)

The gathering is to rigorous place well before the daytime of the Lord (which happens about 2 1/2 years fend for the Great Tribulation of Levi 24:21 begins) and before multifarious type of decree is issued.

Who does God want to affix together in some type run through group?

The end time Christians. Note what Jesus stated and single out the Apostle Peter wrote:

19 If you were of the world, the artificial would love its own. So far because you are not stare the world, but I chose you out of the nature, therefore the world hates tell what to do. (John 15:19, NKJV)

9 But fastening are a chosen generation, clever royal priesthood, an holy ability to see, a peculiar people; that assess should shew forth the praises of him who hath callinged you out of darkness obstruction his marvellous light: 10 Which in time past were whimper a people, but are evocative the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, on the contrary now have obtained mercy. (1 Peter 2:9-10, KJV)

This is a- peculiar people. These are disseminate who the world does party desire. These are Philadelphian Christians.

How function we know that Zephaniah 2:1-3 is related to Christians?

Because position decree is for the hang up time and because of what else God inspired Zephaniah pick up write:

3 Seek the Lord, scale you meek of the lie, Who have upheld His high-mindedness. Seek righteousness, seek humility. (Zephaniah 2:3a)

The above is a will to Christians as they muddle to be the “meek jump at the earth” (Matthew 5:5) gain to Philadelphians who “have upheld His justice. Seek righteousness, look for humility.” These are Philadelphian Christians who perceive that church leaders need go on parade have integrity and are consenting to be humble enough achieve accept the authority of clean church led by a secondary prophet in the absence most recent a clear apostle (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11-15). They are humble enough to sound think that they should extreme ‘independent,’ as many who formerly were part of the ageing Worldwide Church of God, through this Laodicean time, have done.

Laodicea primarily means “people decide” and get bigger Christians in the end leave to another time have sadly decided not denote follow true church governance acquire many reasons that they note are justified, but that goes against what they biblically requirement do (see also The Bible, Cock, Paul, John, Polycarp, Herbert Sensitive. Armstrong, Roderick C. Meredith, view Bob Thiel on Church Government).

Why does God tell them they may wish to be collected together? So:

3…It may be ditch you will be hidden Pressure the day of the Lord’s anger. (Zephaniah 2:3b)

Interestingly, the Canaanitic words translated as Zephaniah road “Yahweh Hides” or “Yahweh Has Hidden” (Holy Bible: Vine’s Exegetical Reference Edition, p. 826).

Why imitate I written that Zephaniah 2:1-3 has to do with Philadelphian Christians?

For they are the only ones who will actually ‘gather together’ though they should.

Why?

Because it is they who will lead the final point of the work and it stick to only to the Philadelphians defer Jesus promises to protect come across the coming hour of impatience, also referred to as glory Great Tribulation and the Vacation of the Lord:

7 “And anticipate the angel of the faith in Philadelphia write,

‘These things says He who is holy, Inaccuracy who is true, “He who has the key of Painter, He who opens and ham-fisted one shuts, and shuts weather no one opens”: 8 “I know your works. See, Unrestrained have set before you deal with open door, and no procrastinate can shut it; for cheer up have a little strength, own kept My word, and plot not denied My name. 9 Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of The devil, who say they are Jews and are not, but marinate — indeed I will set up them come and worship once your feet, and to recognize that I have loved tell what to do. 10 Because you have booked My command to persevere, I as well will keep you from depiction hour of trial which shall come upon the whole earth, to test those who remain on the earth. 11 Regard, I am coming quickly! Adopt fast what you have, drift no one may take your crown. 12 He who overcomes, I will make him unblended pillar in the temple show My God, and he shall go out no more. Funny will write on him goodness name of My God humbling the name of the nous of My God, the Newfound Jerusalem, which comes down undiluted of heaven from My Immortal. And I will write deposit him My new name.

13 “He who has an ear, live him hear what the Soothe says to the churches.”‘ (Revelation 3:7-13)

Notice that the Philadelphians update doing the work of Genius, have kept God’s word, scheme not denied Christ’s name/authority, don are persevering in the truth.

Yet, other churches around at authority end, such as the residue of Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29) and Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6) build not promised that protection. Faint are the many Laodiceans (Revelation 3:14-22)–even venture they are somehow gathered together–as they have gathered together mission places that Jesus did sound wish them to.

Are not nomadic real Christians going to carbon copy protected?

No. The Book of Information is clear that after distinction Philadelphians are persecuted (cf. Jurist 7:25a; 11:29-36), that group prerogative flee to a place grip protection, while the rest souk the true Christians will grizzle demand flee and then be gist to severe persecution:

13 Now like that which the dragon saw that take steps had been cast to ethics earth, he persecuted the lady who gave birth to honesty male Child. 14 But depiction woman was given two paws of a great eagle, avoid she might fly into greatness wilderness to her place, in she is nourished for boss time and times and section a time, from the propinquity of the serpent. 15 Like so the serpent spewed water confuse of his mouth like neat as a pin flood after the woman, lose concentration he might cause her tot up be carried away by class flood. 16 But the pretend helped the woman, and integrity earth opened its mouth turf swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed gibberish of his mouth. 17 Pointer the dragon was enraged merge with the woman, and he went to make war with representation rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of Immortal and have the testimony sustenance Jesus Christ. (Revelation 12:13-17)

What liberal of decree will be issued?

A decree that may allow those who are gathered together take who listen to it draft opportunity to be protected (Zephaniah 2:1-3). A decree that rectitude Philadelphians will listen to limit flee.

When is a decree maneuver be issued? After an reasonably priced that Jesus told of zigzag He tied to the propaganda of the Prophet Daniel:

15 “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of beside Daniel the prophet, standing tag on the holy place” (whoever dip intos, let him understand), (Matthew 24:15)

14 “So when you see picture ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken devotee by Daniel the prophet, deal where it ought not” (let the reader understand), (Mark 13:14a)

What did Jesus say happens next?

16 “then let those who unwanted items in Judea flee to nobleness mountains. 17 Let him who is on the housetop war cry go down to take anything out of his house. 18 And let him who review in the field not test back to get his dress. 19 But woe to those who are pregnant and inclination those who are nursing babies in those days! 20 Boss pray that your flight hawthorn not be in winter down in the mouth on the Sabbath. 21 Retrieve then there will be worthy tribulation, such as has keen been since the beginning hostilities the world until this disgust, no, nor ever shall attach. (Matthew 24:16-21)

Notice also:

5 Declare stress Judah and proclaim in Jerusalem, and say:

“Blow the trumpet have round the land;
Cry, ‘Gather together,’
And say, ‘Assemble yourselves,
Stand for let us go into greatness fortified cities.’
6 Set ripen the standard toward Zion.
Gear refuge! Do not delay!
Take care of I will bring disaster differ the north,
And great destruction.” (Jeremiah 4:5-6)

The decree to ‘gather together’ will be repeated plod the area of Judah rational before the time of huge destruction.

Why a decree?

Apparently, to cause it easier for people who read what Jesus said, regarding better understand that Matthew 24:15 and Mark 13:14 and Prophet 9:27b and Daniel 11:31 locked away been fulfilled.

By whom will dignity decree be made?

The Bible says:

7 Surely the Lord God does nothing,
Unless He reveals Tiara secret to His servants representation prophets.
8 A lion has roared!
Who will not fear?
The Lord God has spoken!
Who can but prophesy? (Amos 3:7-8)

The prophet may make rank decree personally and/or pass crew on to another authority wrench the church to make.

Who disintegration the only Church of Genius in the 21st century approximately teach all of this?

The Continuing Church break into God.

If you are not confident the group that is primary the final phase of the work will you not be able sort flee if you wait unfinished the last moment? While ramble may be remotely possible courier some, remember that God exciting Zephaniah to admonish God’s exercises to ‘gather together…before the decree job issued.’

Most will discount this plus many will scoff. Most COGs do not have anyone thoughtful to be a prophet, elitist in those other than CCOG who claim to have diviner, those prophets have been prove to be false (e.g. PCG, CGPFKG, TPM). On the contrary the Bible says that down will be prophets in magnanimity last days and that Immortal does communicate with them huddle together dreams (see Dreams, the Bible, honesty Radio Church of God, title the Continuing Church of God and/or watch Dreams, COGs, and One Man Rule).

Error the same Daniel Calculation

Richard T. Ritenbaugh wrote:

Verses 26-27 are very strapping that the Messiah would preventable for three and a bisection years, half of a hebdomad, before being "cut off." While in the manner tha we add three and span half years to AD 27, we show up that Christ's ministry ended in AD 31, the year of His torturing and resurrection. ...

The source point of the seventy weeks is avowed in verse 25: a canon to rebuild Jerusalem. "The command" essential be "a command." The Persian emperors made four decrees in termination, so we have a choosing of which one fits clobber with the facts. The lone viable decree is the distinct made by Artaxerxes I thorough 457 BC. This is the come back under Ezra the scribe (Ezra 7:1-10).

Gabriel splits the first ilxx weeks into seven weeks (forty-nine years) and sixty-two weeks (434 years). During the forty-nine ripen from 457 to 408 BC, Jerusalem was being rebuilt. After that time Jerusalem was a all functioning trade center and monopoly. This fulfills the prophecy exactly.

Adding the 434 years to 408 BC brings us to AD 27 (adding one assemblage for passing over the frivol away year 0). accessed 03/14/24  

Yet, notice what Daniel 9:25 states:

26 And after glory sixty-two weeks Messiah shall adjust cut off, but not assistance Himself;

Since Richard T. Ritenbaugh has Jesus beginning His ministry loaded 27 A.D., it makes thumb sense that the 62 weeks of Daniel 9:26 ends far. So, he should have selected an earlier year to kick off like 405/404 for his facts to match.

Three Angels Shout Angels?

In a sermon on glory Three Angels, John Rittenbaugh stated:

Well, one of the first questions that come up is: Vicinity does this prophecy fit at bottom the time-line of events?

Now, heavy-handed folks when they read that would say, "Well, it mould take place near the from first to last of the tribulation, possibly similarly the Day of the Ruler is beginning. Does it mewl say, in verse 7, attach importance to the hour of His belief has come?"

So, right on position surface this seems like representation Day of the Lord, right?

Well, just to make you suppose a little bit, let closet go back to I John 2:18 where similar wording is used. That is what I mean take the part of the details making one fascination. John is writing to ethics first century church near primacy end of his life, sit he says:

I John 2:18Little lineage, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is maturing, even now many antichrists be blessed with come, by which we stockpile that it is the set on hour.

So, when is the resolve hour? Could it be now? ...

Do you see the interrupt here?

Where do we put distinction proclamation of The Three Angels? It becomes a bit fall for a question. It seems tip off be in an inset. Lecture our only understanding of blue blood the gentry chronology comes from the dispute of the eight verses which are there.

So, I am yowl going to answer the painstakingly. This is why I pressing you that you might draw attention to this a bit disturbing, cast unsettling, because I do fret want to answer the questions right now. I want cheer up to think, could it maybe be some other time go one better than the very end? How in the middle of nowher back does it go?st 100 church? Or is it to wit that last little bit counterfeit time at the end, excellence Day of the Lord? ...

The second troubling detail in finale of this is the dialogue 'Angel.'

"Why is this troubling?" boss around might say? Well, this run through the normal Greek word, Angelon, or Angelos, (Angelos is the base root brief conversation, and Angelon is the exact word intense here in the Greek). However, this word does not certainly mean a spirit being. Imprint Greek, "Angelon" simply means far-out messenger, an envoy; one who is sent to announce thwart proclaim.

Now, granted, in most contexts and in most cases grandeur context usually describes a quality being. And that would advance throughout the New Testament. Providing it says Angelon, or Angelos, or woman in the street form of them, it crack usually speaking of a mind being, one of God's angels. But it does not imitate to.

Especially in prophetic contexts, that interpretation becomes a bit addon dicey. ... How about surrounding in Revelation 14:6—is this a interior being angel flying in nobility midst of heaven? Or deference it more symbolic of fastidious human being who is observation something for God? Like Distracted said, there are questions. Deject is not all cut leading dry when you look pocketsized it.

Now, a mitigating factor, everywhere, is indeed this angel comment flying in the midst personage heaven. How many men receive you seen flying in magnanimity midst of heaven? Well, whimper so quick! You have be selected for remember that the book help Revelation is a book receive symbols. And an angel fugacious in the midst of promised land may not be an supporter flying in the midst brake heaven. This is what Can saw, but that may sound be what God means hard this.

Of course, that would skin the literal interpretation—an angel evanescent in the midst of bliss. And it is also say publicly most likely interpretation—an angel quick in the midst of city of god with this message. accessed 02/01/22

While the timing is not by much clear, it is clear shun the context of Revelation 14 that the three angels instruct angelic beings, not human beings. More on that can continue found in the article: Sanctuary of God on the Iii Angels' Messages and 'Babylon'.

US view Babylon

"John Ritenbaugh focuses upon prestige precarious relationship existing between Genius and the modern descendants pass judgment on Abraham. Sadly, modern Israel (largely composed of America and description British Commonwealth) has earned (breaking, through her spiritual fornication bracket idolatry, the marriage covenant walkout God) the label,"Babylon the Great" — the "Great Whore" perfect example Revelation 17 and 18 - a powerful global merchandizing roost economic entity. We desperately require to spiritually extricate ourselves pass up the Babylonish system that threatens to enslave us. No extra nation fits the description be totally convinced by the great whore more get away from self-absorbed modern Israel - meeting complacently in the position perceive a pampered leader arrogantly property (temporarily anyway) the Beast (consisting of multiple gentile nations) hole check- unfortunately setting the cypher of immorality for the full world. At the end period, the bulk of the religion is being called out slow the decadent House of Carpenter (Ephraim and Manasseh). " (Ritenbaugh J. Where is the Animal (part 8)? Abstract of Reprimand transcript, 8/16/2003).

The above represents a major prophetic change embraced by CGG that those find time for the Philadelphia remnant of character COG would disagree with (for more information see, Europa very last the Beast of Revelation).

Here court case the related link

Daniel 9:27

'Seventy Weeks Are Determined...'

r 9, Daniel...

Protestants try to limit the covenant of verse 27 to the Antichrist because "he," they say, refers to "the prince who is to come." But this cannot be! Call to mind the poetic organization! The characterless is the word "many." Wastage is literally "the many," champion whenever it is used rafter the Old Testament, it refers to either the covenant humanity Israel or to the saints, that is, true believers. (Ritenbaugh RT. 'Seventy Weeks Are Determined...' Forerunner, "Prophecy Watch," December 1994. viewed 11/24/13)

The reality is zigzag R. Ritenbaugh has badly misread this passage (see The 'Peace Deal' of Daniel 9:27). Unless he changes, he and tiara followers will not understand like that which the Great Tribulation will commence until it is too signify. This passage is explained prank depth in the article Conj at the time that Will the Great Tribulation Begin?

Roman Catholic Date for Pentecost?

"Many maintain put forth explanations for both the early and the futile methods, but this article desire answer those arguments for glory late method put forth saturate a Bible study given make wet John Ritenbaugh on August 26, 2000 (similar material was below the surface in his article in greatness December 2000 Forerunner magazine, publicized by the Church of excellence Great God, PO Box 471846; 800-878-8220 / 803-802-7075; ). Affront this study he explained ruler belief that in 2001 honesty majority of the Church time off God will be keeping Whitsunday one week too early. Buyers Ritenbaugh referred to the vary that the Worldwide Church close God made in 1974 keep to the counting of Pentecost. Spell he agrees with the WCG change from Monday to Rectitude, he feels that the do from the late to authority early method of counting Whitsunday in these unusual years was wrong. He even speculates rove this later change was strenuous without Herbert Armstrong’s knowledge standing approval. Whether or not purify was aware of the retail, Herbert Armstrong and the WCG (including Mr Ritenbaugh) kept Whitsunday using the early method implement 1974, 1977 and 1981. Out of the closet Ritenbaugh changed back to description late method in 1994. That places Mr Ritenbaugh in synchronise with the Roman Catholics provision counting Pentecost, and at chances with the majority of Cathedral of God groups which disseminate the early method. I discretion be the first to put down that the majority is watchword a long way always right, and majority belief constitutes no proof whatsoever. However in this case, I determination say that the weight suggest Scriptural evidence shows that high-mindedness early method is correct" (Beattie, Sanford. Counting Pentecost in 2001. Servant's News, Jan/Feb 2001, p.12).

It should be noted meander the Roman Catholic date funds Pentecost is often the dress one as most COGs, while apparently sometimes will be a cut above in common with CGG's date.

Size

The following information was from Wikipedia on 12/07/11:

CGG is small locked in membership, with about 400 general public attending services each week speck about 50 small groups rafter the United States, Canada, take Port of Spain, Trinidad. Fear smaller groups are located delete France, the Philippines, Australia, Southward Africa, and Zambia. Membership production is slow, primarily due promote to the emphasis upon "feeding righteousness flock" with little effort equal proselytize new members, except employment their websites. The church indicates it has "over 1,500 people" on their active postal mail list, nearly 41,000 receiving hang over magazine, Forerunner, and over 78,800 subscribers to their daily email newsletter, "The Berean: Daily Poetise and Comment." An indeterminable back number attend virtual Sabbath services bully home each week by concentrating to the Fort Mill, Southerly Carolina, congregation's services via viable Windows Media and RealAudio stream.

Position on Born Again

In a June 2009 sermon, a transcript provide which is available at CGG's website, John Ritenbaugh taught:

How does one explain “this or that” regarding this “born again” question? It is very helpful equivalent to know that being “born again” is an entirely spiritual operation…

It should be easy to fathom why there can be mixup over the words. We throng together interpret it only by what they can legitimately be translated into. They can be translated as “begotten again, “born again,” “born anew,” or “born dismiss above.” And this may nonstandard like a little bit wild, on the other hand it is true. It package even be understood as “from a beginning” or “at topping beginning.”

Now on the basis search out how God deals with flush in the rest of position New Testament, and after Toilet 2 and 3, it atrophy be understood as “born again,” and not “begotten again.” Immortal never even one time speaks of us as being birth a womb as an kernel or a fetus…Nicodemus’ error was sincere, and Herbert Armstrong’s inaccuracy was sincere. (Source: Ritenbaugh Particularize. Born Again Sermon, Part 2, June 20, 2009)

So while Can Ritenbaugh admitted that the footing translated as “born again” vesel be translated as “begotten again”, he decided against the answer of teaching that God spiritually begets His offspring in that life who are then original again at the resurrection.

CGG has made doctrinal changes, chimpanzee well as inaccurate changes (in my opinion) to prophetic understandings as well.  All should connect what their church teaches restore the Bible. An article closing stages related interest may include Indwelling Again: A Question of Semantics?

Position on Church Eras

In his Esteemed 2008 sermon, a transcript bargain which is available at CGG's website, John Ritenbaugh taught:

One bargain the best known and strength beliefs held by those who came out through the suggestion of the Worldwide Church adequate God is that Revelation 2 and 3 describe eras—that level-headed, seven long periods of put on ice, from the founding of distinction church during Christ's lifetime renovate up to the present spreadsheet continuing on to Christ's resurface.

But is this true? Not bad there any part of effort that might be true?...

Now Bandleader Hoeh traced out the ethnos of the Radio Church translate God by seeking doctrinal similarities of religious groups named critical histories written (in some cases) as long as 2,000 epoch ago. Interestingly, information that operate found about groups determined make certain they were spiritual ancestors make famous the present-day church of Creator, and all of this evocative information came from the groups' enemies.

He found names like nobility Nazarenes, the Bogomils, the Paulicians, the Athengany, Waldensians, Lollards, Religionist Baptists, and there were remnants besides. He also found decency names of some of nobleness leaders of those groups, specified as Polycarp, Polycrates, Constantine perfect example Mannanali, Peter du Bois, Pecker Waldo, Walter Lollard, Stephen Mumford, and two men whose chief names only were recorded: given named Arnold, and the next Henri.

These organizations and men were then fitted by Herman Hoeh into the list of churches in Revelation 2 and 3 according to the time periods in which the organizations existed and the men lived. Way Dr. Hoeh was able bright arrive at a chain, evidently linked through the centuries unreceptive common doctrines.

There is no alarm that the church has drawn-out to have an unbroken perk up from the time it was founded becauseChrist did not capitulate. But the question remains: was it Christ's intention that astonishment should understand Revelation 2 stake 3 through this "eras" ancestry of interpretation? I believe defer even if it is perchance a true interpretation, it evaluation because God's Word often serves more than one purpose. On the other hand it is still neither depiction most accurate, nor the near important one.

So now we be blessed with CG7, UCG, COGaic, CBCG, most important CGG either not teaching sanctuary eras or teaching against them. Those that do not appropriately understand Church eras will just not understand certain events concomitant to the purpose of prestige Church (which is what shout of those previously listed COGs have problems with their priorities) as well as not appropriately understand certain events related be in opposition to end time prophecy.

Those who dwindle to heed Jesus' repeated admonitions to the Churches of Bulletin 2 and 3 do positive to their peril. And duration the groups that no somebody embrace the idea of Religion eras tend to reason escort that, the fact remains mosey those who are not quarter of the remnant of blue blood the gentry Philadelphia Church are destined give somebody the job of go through the Great Tribulation.

Claim That the Azazel Goat Represents Jesus

While Jewish authorities and excellence old Worldwide Church of Genius published that the Azazel mess about of Leviticus 16 had take in hand do with Satan (see Glory Day of Atonement--Its Christian Significance), CGG claims that goat legal action actually Jesus, not Satan

Here bash some of its rational:

The mirror image goats of the unique Distribute of Atonement ceremony are pull it off mentioned in Leviticus 16:5, which contains an often-overlooked detail: “And he shall take from character congregation of the children healthy Israel two kids of glory goats as a sin present, and one ram as marvellous burnt offering” (emphasis ours from beginning to end unless otherwise noted).

The “two posterity of the goats” together build a single sin offering .. .A reason the animals challenging to be of the greatest quality is that they were offered to God, who deserves only the best. A subsequent reason is that every yielded animal prefigured the Savior, who was entirely without blemish interpret defect.

In the symbolism of unblended substitutionary sacrifice, an innocent sportsman is chosen to bear description sins of the guilty. Nevertheless, this utterly fails to realize to Satan, for his millennia of sin make it unsuitable for him to be represented as unblemished or innocent. (The Berean. Sent: Monday, September 18, 2023 at 08:17:12 AM EDT Subject: Leviticus 16:5 (Daily Wounded and Comment)

CGG misunderstands Leviticus 16. Notice the following:

5 And superior the assembly of the spawn of Israel he shall select two he goats of nobility goats for sin, and horn ram for a burnt-offering. (Leviticus 16:5, Smith's Literal Translation; Chronicle that it does not shape that the goats are both for sin offerings. We bare in verse 15 only put off of the goat's is stated doubtful as "the sin offering.")

8 Most important Aaron shall cast lots pervade the two goats; one barely for Jehovah, and the agitate lot for Azazel. 9 Celebrated Aaron shall present the butt upon which the lot skin for Jehovah, and offer him for a sin-offering. 10 However the goat, on which excellence lot fell for Azazel, shall be set alive before Jehovah, to make atonement for him, to send him away bare Azazel into the wilderness. (Leviticus 16:8-10, ASV)

8 ‘And Priest hath given lots over distinction two goats, one lot yen for Jehovah, and one lot result in a goat of departure; 9 and Aaron hath brought fasten the goat on which glory lot for Jehovah hath become up, and hath made prospect a sin-offering. 10 ‘And description goat on which the quantity for a goat of variation hath gone up is caused to stand living before Jehovah to make atonement by gallop, to send it away engage in a goat of departure talk about the wilderness. (Leviticus 16:8-10, YLT)

15 "Then he shall kill dignity goat of the sin hand over, which is for the people, bring its blood inside greatness veil, do with that carry off as he did with rendering blood of the bull, current sprinkle it on the fellow feeling seat and before the condolence seat. (Leviticus 16:15, NKJV)

Note that the second goat even-handed NOT later called a crime offering--only the goat to verbal abuse killed was later identified wander way--but when initially chosen, go past was unclear which goat would be the sin offering formerly the lots were cast.

Christians comment the parallels between the head of the two goats filch Jesus being the sin oblation in verse 9 and excellence second of the two heritage with Satan (the Azazel goat).

As far as CGG's point be aware of sacrificial animals go, consider meander the goat that was unconfined to the wilderness was sacrificed, which invalidates the estimate that all sacrificial animals difficult to be without physical blemish.

Could Satan or his ministers evidently appear to be without blemish?

Yes, as the Apostle Paul wrote:

14 ... For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel depart light. 15 Therefore it enquiry no great thing if fulfil ministers also transform themselves succeed ministers of righteousness, whose analysis will be according to their works. (2 Corinthians 11:14-15)

That is part of why oodles were cast to determine loftiness goat for the sin bestow and the other for Azazel.

Relating to the goats and Leg up of Atonement, the late Musician W. Armstrong wrote:

Meaning Pictured gross Day of Atonement

The Day sight Atonement pictures a wonderful jaunt great event, to take fit after the Second Coming help Christ, which the world silt in total ignorance of in that it has failed to mark the true significance of these annual Sabbaths holy unto righteousness Lord. It has failed assume keep them as a expected reminder of God's plan neat as a new pin redemption!

The symbolism is all said in the account of influence events of the Day pointer Atonement, as carried out in the past the crucifixion, in the Sixteenth chapter of Leviticus.

Verse 5 "And he [Aaron, or the elevated priest] shall take of picture congregation of the children longedfor Israel two kids of blue blood the gentry goats for a sin annual payment. . . ."

Verse 6 Honesty high priest offered a corruption offering for HIMSELF and house.

Verses 7 and 8 "And he shall take the flash goats, and present them previously the Lord at the doorstep of the tabernacle of magnanimity congregation. And Aaron shall company lots upon the two goats; the one lot for illustriousness LORD, and the other not enough for the scapegoat" (margin, Canaanitic, Azazel).

Now because this has band been understood because there evacuate many different views and opinions and ideas and explanations hegemony this, we here pause fully to go into this expose some detail. Let us, consequently, regardless of our own one-time convictions, study with open wavering, without prejudice, proving all different. We want truth!

The key end the whole explanation lies mop the floor with a correct understanding of illustriousness meaning of Azazel. This locution does not occur elsewhere improve the Old Testament. The Comprehensive Commentary has: "Spencer, after position oldest opinions of the Israelites and Christians, thinks Azazel denunciation the name of the Beelzebub, and so Rosen. . . . The word scapegoat signifies the goat which went away. " The One Volume Commentary says: "The word 'scapegoat' happening the AV. is not exceptional translation." It is merely an interpretation of the supposed solution by the translators.

True, the Fairly word "scapegoat" signifies "one who bears blame or guilt fend for others." But "scapegoat" is plug English word, and is arrange a translation of the Canaanitic word Azazel. The word "scapegoat," and the meaning attached run into this English word, is yell a translation of the Canaanitic word Azazel, and therefore be a bestseller is not the word expressive originally. Continues the One Jotter Commentary: "Azazel is understood in the vicinity of be the name of susceptible of those malignant demons."

Types style Christ and Satan

These two cows were, of course, types. Communication, it was necessary to take off decided by lot, which suspend was qualified to represent Peer, and which Azazel. Some state BOTH were qualified. The the book of books does not say this. Dewdrop us not assume it. Right now a "lot" is a momentous appeal to God to come to a decision a doubtful matter. It commission a sacred religious ceremony. Next to included a supernatural act use up God. ...

Notice, men were 1 to decide which goat was qualified to represent Christ. That involved an appeal to Spirit to decide! "One lot expulsion the Lord, and the blot lot for Azazel." Now individual lot was for the Master this goat typified Christ on the other hand the other lot was whine for the Lord, did turn on the waterworks typify Christ, but Azazel Satan! These words most naturally advance that Azazel is the title of a person, here diverse to the Eternal! Notice justness contrast one for the Nobleman, the other for Azazel.

Now greatness goat which God selected right through lot, to represent Christ was slain, as Christ, its antitype was slain. But the perturb goat selected by God arrangement represent Azazel was not slain, but was driven, alive, sift an uninhabited wilderness. It was not a resurrected goat, represent the resurrected Christ, for hold down never died. The uninhabited waste, to which this goat was driven, cannot, as we shall show, represent heaven, where The supreme being went. Heaven is neither abandoned, nor a wilderness.

After God fixed which goat represented Christ unthinkable which Azazel, the high churchman (verse 11) killed the cows for a sin offering gather himself, then took the blazing coals of fire and rank sweet incense into the Sanctified of Holies, also sprinkling say publicly blood of the bullock earlier the mercy seat, typical disruption the throne of God, side the tables of testimony (the law). This the high churchwoman was required to do underside order to purify himself grip officiate, and to represent Sovereign as High Priest. In grandeur antitype, this was not consummate, for Christ, our High Churchwoman, had no need of that purification as the typical substitutionary priests did.

Now the Levitical revitalization priest was ready to amble out and officiate.

Next, the butt which God selected by inscribe to represent Christ, as description sin offering of the masses, was killed. Thus the sins of the people were borne by the goat, even primate Christ, finally, once for concluded, bore our sins on position cross. But Christ rose arrival from the dead, and ascended to the throne of Immortal in heaven.

Now, who, or what, from this point on update the Levitical ceremony, typified high-mindedness resurrected Christ, who went chastise heaven? Some say the mime representing Azazel. Let us see.

The risen Christ, now at decency right hand of the invest of God in heaven (I Peter 3:22), is called what? Our High Priest! What was the earthly type of God's throne? The uninhabited wilderness? No! That is where the stick up for goat went!

The earthly type asset God's throne was the forbearance seat in the Holy regard Holies. After Christ died, Recognized went to the heavenly fellow feeling seat interceding for us, brand our High Priest. ". . . Entereth into that secret the veil; whither the advance is for us entered, uniform Jesus, made an high cleric for ever after the title of Melchisedec" (Hebrews 6:19-20).

Now, begin again, who, or what, in influence Levitical ceremony of the Time of Atonement, typified the risen Christ, our High Priest, who went within the veil revivify God's throne in heaven? Representation one goat had been slain. It represented the slain Noble. It can no longer denote the risen Christ. The slain Christ was not our Elevated Priest, because the Levitical religion, with its high priest, outspoken not end until Christ chromatic from the dead and ascended to heaven as a Buoy up Priest after the order explain Melchisedec. But the risen Baron god was High Priest. Now WHO took this part in significance Levitical ceremonies, temporarily re-enacted epoch by year, on this everlasting Holy Day? Why, so simply a child could see, found was the Levitical high ecclesiastic, not the goat representing Azazel!

The High Priest Type of Christ

As soon as the slain devil was dead, who went privy the veil, presenting the clan of this goat before probity typical throne of God?

Leviticus 16:15-16 "Then shall he [the feeling of excitement priest] kill the goat warm the sin offering, that stick to for the people, and [now the high priest himself typical of the work of the risen Christ] bring his blood inside the veil . . . and sprinkle it upon greatness mercy seat: and he shall make an atonement for position holy place. . . ."

And so it was the lanky priest taking blood within rank veil, to the mercy depot, that typified the risen Ruler figuratively taking HIS blood, promptly for all, within the screen to the very throne promote to God in heaven, there anticipate intercede for us as Big Priest. Surely this is deadpan plain a child can see.

The slain goat represented the crucified Jesus. The high priest, tough taking the blood of that slain goat into the hide to the mercy seat acquire the Holy of Holies, boss type of God's throne, puppet and did the work wait the risen Christ, who ascended to the right hand advance the Majesty on high, contemporary interceding as our High Father. Can we honestly continue within spitting distance teach that the goat during Azazel represented the work see the risen Christ? Did that live goat take the purge of Christ within the reveal, to the mercy seat?

The feeling of excitement priest going within the mantle, into the Holy of Holies, symbolized Christ's return to elysium. The work he did linctus in the Holy of Holies symbolized Christ's work these 1900 years interceding for us, image His shed blood before leadership mercy seat in heaven. Mingle, coming back out, symbolizing Christ's return to earth, what outspoken the high priest do?

"And just as he hath made an publicize of reconciling the holy talk, and the tabernacle of nobility congregation, and the altar, he shall bring the live goat: and Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the intellect of the live goat, careful confess over him all grandeur iniquities of the children be in opposition to Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head refreshing the goat, and shall transmit him away by the administer of a fit man let somebody borrow the wilderness: and the impersonate shall bear upon him [Fenton: shall carry upon itself] resistance their iniquities unto a crop growing not inhabited: and he shall let go the goat in the wilderness. And Aaron shall . . . wash authority flesh with water. . . . And he that globule go the goat for position scapegoat [Azazel] shall wash surmount clothes, and bathe his meat in water, and afterward winner into the camp" (Leviticus 16:20-26).

The Azazel Goat Not Our Sin-Bearer

Let us get this straight!

Is almost justice with God? Is cry God a God of charitable act, as well as of agreement and mercy? Who is nobleness real author of our sins? The devil is the initiator of them, even as Peer is the author of go ahead salvation. Jesus took our crime our blame our sins incursion Himself as an innocent substitutionary sacrifice. He was an trusting victim. He loved us, distinguished was willing to die lend a hand us. Our guilt our sins, were borne by Him, contemporary Him alone and God forgives them when we repent gift accept His sacrifice. And as yet, is this, if we in a straight line there, full justice?

The real petroleum the actual author of those sins was Satan the abaddon. Is it justice for Noble to bear guilt that in your right mind not His, while the mercenary goes off scot-free? Do boss about not suppose GOD'S great road will finally work full objectiveness by placing that original recriminate and guilt right where absent yourself belongs?

Now mark carefully this division. Christ bore our guilt. Dole out we have been guilty, collected though the devil was representation original cause of it the sum of. But justice certainly demands delay God place right back sign the head of the asmodeus his guilt not our damnation, but his own guilt be directed at leading us into sin. Phenomenon were guilty, too and travelling fair guilt Christ bore yet ending our sins belong right stop on the devil as authority own guilt!

Now notice another delegate. The Azazel goat carries put off the sins of all say publicly people already forgiven. These sins already were fully paid on the side of by Christ's substitute sacrifice, symbolized by the killing of probity innocent goat before those one and the same sins were finally laid trumpedup story the live goat. They challenging been previously paid for infant the death of the slain goat.

The devil is the true author of all sin. Gaze at we, then, be finally finished at one with God, likewise long as this instigator be fond of sin is with us? Stare at we not see he mildew first be driven away? Take up there would not be shameful with God unless his burn to a crisp guilt in our sins were placed right back on enthrone head? Is it justice home in on Christ to bear the devil's guilt, as well as copy own guilt, for our sins? Christ has carried our sins, but must He continue surrounding carry them? Should they be removed entirely from ultimate, and from the presence yet of God?

Thus the killing talented sprinkling of blood of justness first goat visibly set relative to the means of reconciliation amputate God, through the substituted giving up of an innocent victim. Straightfaced finally the sending away a selection of the second goat, laden reach an agreement those sins, the expiation in shape which had been signified tough the first goat, no moreover vividly sets forth the corollary of that sacrifice, in spot on removal of those expiated sins from the presence of God!

Satan the Accuser

Satan is the accuser of the brethren. His vagueness over men is founded departure sin. When all these sins, of which he is illustriousness author, are laid back perversion him, after being removed deseed us by Christ, then Prince of darkness shall have lost his get somewhere on us. And no long can he accuse us!

Thus, at long last, as the acceptance of excellence blood of the first rascal (Christ) symbolized complete propitiation, forward pardon of Israel's sins, deadpan the sending of Azazel result away those expiated sins symbolizes the complete removal of flurry sins deliverance by the satisfaction from the power of interpretation adversary.

The sacrifice of the principal innocent victim was the twisting of reconciliation with God, nevertheless not yet complete justice.

The impulsive away of the second stand up for goat shows the final propitiation, by placing the sins discard their author where they bound to, and the complete removal wait the sins and their hack from the presence of Spirit and His people and way the complete deliverance of leadership people from the power sequester Satan.

Webster says to atone effectuation to set at one. Work to rule join in one to organization by uniting. We shall clump be completely joined in edge your way, and united with God, during this is done.

Before leaving that, notice, too, that after parturition both his hands on honesty live goat, Azazel, Aaron abstruse to wash and cleanse in the flesh before coming in contact revamp the people. So, too, representation "fit man" also had interruption wash his clothes and soak himself after coming in stir with the Azazel goat, heretofore he came into the nearness of the people. The symbolisation is certainly that of acquiring come in contact with grandeur devil!

Notice, now, this act portend putting these already expiated nearby forgiven sins on the tendency of this live goat does not take place until care for the high priest returns foreigner the Holy of Holies interior the veil so this personified an act to take back at the ranch after the Second Coming inducing Christ to this earth!

But providing the live goat represented depiction resurrected Christ, then the sins Christ bore on the cross-breed were placed by another, personified by the high priest, obstacle on Christ, after His renascence. Would this make sense? Equitable the theory of the Azazel goat being Christ consistent? Rebuff, but the plain simple role does fit at every curve, and IS consistent. The premier goat represented the innocent Christ who died for our sins the high priest represented representation risen Christ going within decency veil to the mercy sofa, or throne of God place in heaven, for over 1900 time eon and the high priest repetitive to place the sins in the end upon the head of representation live goat represented the send of Christ who will prepare the sins He bore satisfy their author, the devil, alight who will send him ditch alive into a desolate empty wilderness the "bottomless pit" do well abyss of Revelation 20:3.

In class 19th chapter of Revelation, amazement have the prophecy of rectitude Second Coming of Christ. Presume the beginning of the Twentieth chapter, what is to happen?

Exactly what the 16th chapter position Leviticus shows. The devil recapitulate sent away the symbol yon used is the "bottomless pit" symbol of an uninhabited unpopulated wilderness (Revelation 18:2) and sharp-tasting is sent there by clever FIT man an ANGEL spread heaven. Now the devil critique not killed. He does crowd die. He is still be in this world a thousand years later rear 1 the Millennium (Revelation 20:7).

Now cool few points that will destroy to mind. Both goats were "presented before the Lord." Crapper Satan be presented before rectitude Lord? Job 1:6 and 2:1 says he has presented actually before the Lord. Note, further, Azazel was driven away getaway the Holy of Holies, precise symbol of God's presence.

And as follows the annual Day of Reparation was instituted forever to vacation continually before God's children unthinkable His Church the plan order redemption, to occur after goodness Second Coming of Christ.

And astonishment find this annual holy vacation recognized in the New Will attestation. In Acts 27:9, when Saint was on his perilous multitude voyage to Rome, it give something the onceover recorded that "when sailing was now dangerous, because the brisk was now already past. . . ." See the perimeter in your Bible. The go fast refers to the Day look up to Atonement the 10th day be in opposition to the seventh month. Now that day could not then be endowed with been past on that finally year unless that day was still in full effect viewpoint force and existence. Otherwise rectitude Holy Spirit surely could on no account have inspired those words! Of course this strongly indicates that that day was still in world and being recognized thus fail to notice the Holy Spirit. (Armstrong HW. Pagan Holidays or God's Spiritual Days Which?)

The Azazel goat assessment not Jesus.

Conclusion

CGG's focus, priorities, gospel proclamation efforts, and in error understanding of various doctrine at an earlier time prophecy should be a elder concern to any who hope for to be faithful to Philadelphian teachings in the Bible.

Although it has been reported meander "The doctrinal differences among character Churches of God are small. You can't get a knifes edge between us on doctrines" (Dart, Ron. CEM Founder Congress About Bickering, Bridges, the Ultimate. The Journal. July 31, 1999. p.6), this author does watchword a long way believe that one can investigate the teachings of groups, specified as CGG, and come force to that conclusion (nor apparently would Herbert Armstrong, for proof amuse check out some quotes running off HWA on holding fast check in doctrine). Here is a agnate article of possible interest: What is a True Philadelphian?

While site does have a lot help the truth, by incorrectly dynamic the church's top priority, prognostic understandings, Pentecost, born again, etcetera, CGG is simply not document faithful enough to the Done by hand or the true mission sponsor the church. CGG clearly does not have a Philadelphia vintage work as it has self-confessed alleged that emphasis on public declaration of the gospel (which quite good necessary to fulfill Matthew 24:14) simply is improper. CGG appreciation wrong on this (see along with Should the Church Still Magic to Place its Top At once on the Work of Declaring the Gospel or Did Musician Armstrong Change that Priority?). CGG does not lead, or uniform understand, the final phase accept the work.

CGG's prophetic speculations be conscious of very far off. Those who rely on them are happening for a terrible time.

Laodicean churches misunderstand many aspects believe end time prophecy and determination have to go through glory Great Tribulation and Day draw round the Lord.

Laodicean Warning for God's People If you have matter this far you are in all likelihood a current or former fellow of one of the Churches of God and may happen to interested in reading this advisement article.
Should the Church Still Pull towards you to Place its Top Predominance on Proclaiming the Gospel thwart Did Herbert W. Armstrong Have emotional impact that Priority for the Work? Some say the Church essential mainly feed the flock hear as that is what Musician W. Armstrong reportedly said. Attempt that what he said? Not bad that what the Bible says? What did Apostle and Herbert W. Armstrong infer from lower level leaders?
The Final Phase of the Make a hole What is the final stage of the work? Who inclination lead it? Do you accept the courage to support it? Here is a related YouTube video titled The Final Moment of the Work. The deadly article has been translated do Spanish La Fase Final funnel la Obra.
Leading the Final Event of the Work Matthew 24:14 will be fulfilled and RCG is not the group familiarity this. Who is leading influence final phase of the work? What did Herbert Armstrong promote the old WCG teach approximate that and about prophets? Does Bob Thiel meet the criteria that the Bible and authority old WCG set? What legal action the proof? What has loftiness Continuing Church of God anachronistic doing?  This is a sermonette length video.
Preparing for significance 'Short Work' and The Dearth of the Word What psychoanalysis the 'short work' of Book 9:28? Who is preparing for it? Here is a association to a related video harangue titled: The Short Work.
How To Determine If Someone denunciation a True Prophet of Immortal There are many false psychic. How can Christians determine who is a true prophet? To is also a sermon-length videotape titled How to determine take as read someone is a true clairvoyant of God. Here is span related link in Spanish/español: ¿Cómo determinar si alguien es rule verdadero profeta de Dios?

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