The "little book" of Revelation 10
FINAL PROPHECY for all ``MEMBERS``
Past and Present of the
~~~~WORLDWIDE CHURCH OF GOD~~~~
If the book of Revelation is the book of mystery, then surely the "little book" of (Revelation 10), is a riddle wrapped in a mystery. It has secret thunderous messages that GOD alone can reveal to HIS servants (Amos 3:7).
Why chapter 10 of REVELATION? The book of Revelation is written in chronological order, with an occasional inset chapter; purposely placed, in order to reveal, educate, inspire, or to admonish its reader.
Notice the strategic placement of (Revelation 10)! It is just prior to the introduction of GOD`S ---"two witnesses"--- (Rev. 11:3), and also to the forty two month reign of terror [of the Beast], known as the "Times of the Gentiles" (Luke 21:24; Rev. 11:2). The book of (Revelation 10), is also prophetically placed just 15 verses away from the announcement of the KINGDOM OF GOD (Rev. 11:15).
Why is (Revelation 10), devoted to a controversial and mysterious "little book" that is symbolically delivered by a mighty angel? Because it is end-time revelation -- sent by GOD -- (Rev. 1:1), to penetrate the shroud of deception Satan (Rev. 12:9), has over the whole Earth. These end-time messages delivered to HIS servant through the power of the holy spirit; are first to HIS CHURCH (Isa. 58:1; Ezek. 33:7), and then to the World (Matt. 24:14).
If you sincerely desire to know the truth of GOD, and what is to transpire in the immediate future? Then meticulously read this "little book" and review each scripture for an in depth understanding of prophecy, soon to be fulfilled – starting in the year of 2001.
Following is a verse by verse review of (Revelation 10); accompanied by the --- SEVEN THUNDEROUS MESSAGES --- that GOD wants revealed and restored to HIS CHURCH (Jude 3), in this end time Laodicean era (Rev. 3:14-22).
At this juncture many will wonder and ask, who am I? For the time being that is unimportant; what is important, is that this is the revealed truth of the LIVING GOD, (John 17:17), and verifiable by HIS Word, the Bible.
The messenger is not important, but suffice it to say, that I am an ordained servant like unto Stephen (Acts 6 & 7). I was a member for over 25 years in the WCG, [until they corrupted the truth], (I John 2:4).
Forsaking evil; I then became a member in the PCG for over 5 years, [until they rejected the truth]), (Titus 1:13-14); and presently, over 3 years in the CHURCH OF GOD, [wherein the truth resides], (Joshua 22:5; John 8:32; John 16:13; II Timothy 2:15; I John 4:6; I John 5:3; II John 1:4).
This "little book" may be reproduced in any form, style, method or manner. (Textual additions or deletions are prohibited) - KDP - Sept. 2000. Scriptures quoted are from the King James Version, unless otherwise noted.
REV 10:1
"AND I SAW ANOTHER MIGHTY ANGEL COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN CLOTHED WITH A CLOUD: AND A RAINBOW WAS UPON HIS HEAD,
This mighty angel is the archangel Gabriel, GOD’S angelic messenger to man on Earth. This prophetic messenger was sent, in times past, to Daniel to give him understanding about the visions being revealed to him of the end time, (Dan. 8:16; Dan. 9:21-23). He was also sent to speak to "doubting" Zacharias about the future birth of his son, John the Baptist, (Luke 1:5-25,36-80), and to the virgin Mary, to announce the conception of the Son of GOD, by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:26-35). This mighty archangel will also announce the triumphant and glorious appearance, of Jesus Christ, at the last trump (I Cor.15:52; I Thess. 4:16; Rev. 11:15; Matt. 24:29-31).
Gabriel comes through the clouds to Earth, from the very Throne of GOD, (Rev. 4:3), … "and there was a rainbow round about the throne,"…This rainbow which was upon his head heralds that he serves at the Throne of the MOST HIGH GOD.
AND HIS FACE WAS AS IT WERE THE SUN, AND HIS FEET AS PILLARS OF FIRE:
This displays his power and glory. The seat of his authority is also revealed in (Luke 1:19). "And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of GOD; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings."
GOD through HIS holy spirit, is sending HIS loyal messenger to this earth, once again, with revelations for these perilous end-times.
Rev. 10:2
AND HE HAD IN HIS HAND A LITTLE BOOK OPEN:
The "little book" in the mighty angel's hand is open, it is not sealed. It is open because the revelations GOD has for [his end-time servant] can now be understood.
AND HE SET HIS RIGHT FOOT UPON THE SEA, AND HIS LEFT FOOT ON THE EARTH,
This signifies that the "little book" will have a worldwide impact, its message will effect everyone upon this Earth.
AND CRIED WITH A LOUD VOICE, AS WHEN A LION ROARETH:
GOD declares in (Amos 3:8), "The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy? " Gabriel cried with such a loud voice, that it was like a deafening roar of a lion. This powerful message of prophecy is to be heard around the world. GOD has spoken; HE is commanding HIS servant to prophesy, with the boldness, and the power, of a roaring lion.
AND WHEN HE HAD CRIED, SEVEN THUNDERS UTTERED THEIR VOICES.
And when he had cried with a loud voice, seven thunders uttered their voices. GOD has seven thunderous revelations that HE wants us to know concerning HIS CHURCH in this end-time. GOD reveals in (Amos 3:7), "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." GOD has revealed HIS secret thunderous revelations to HIS servant, who in turn is revealing them to you, the brethren, through this "little book" of (Revelation 10).
The "little book" of Revelation 10
REV. 10:3 (con't).
This is the epitome of prophecy; GOD wants you to know what is going to happen, before it happens. GOD is revealing that the "Times of the Gentiles" are almost upon us. GOD in HIS mercy, wants you to understand that.
REV 10:4
AND WHEN THE SEVEN THUNDERS HAD UTTERED THEIR VOICES, I WAS ABOUT TO WRITE: AND I HEARD A VOICE FROM HEAVEN SAYING UNTO ME, SEAL UP THOSE THINGS WHICH THE SEVEN THUNDERS UTTERED, AND WRITE THEM NOT.
The voice from heaven tells John to seal up those things, which the seven thunders uttered and write them not. Why? Because the "little book" was not relevant at that point in time. It can only be understood now, in this end-of-the-end-time era of GOD'S work. The "little book" could not have been understood one year ago, let alone nineteen hundred years ago. It is exclusive for this end time period in prophecy. This "little book" was a mystery and would have been impossible to comprehend in any other time frame of CHURCH history. Prophecy reveals that recent and specific events had to come to a juncture in both the world and the CHURCH, before the urgent and timely message of this "little book" could be delivered.
The central point of the "little book" of (Revelation 10), is all about the crashing, rumbling, roaring, shout of the seven thunderous messages GOD has for us just before the "Perilous Times" are thrust upon us. The seven thunderous messages follow the review of (Revelation 10).
REV 10:5
AND THE ANGEL WHICH I SAW STAND UPON THE SEA AND UPON THE EARTH LIFTED UP HIS HAND TO HEAVEN,
Some may assume that the mighty angel in (Rev. 10:1), is Jesus Christ. That is incorrect; Jesus Christ is not an angel, He is a GOD: and secondly, Jesus Christ expressly told us that when He comes to establish the KINGDOM OF GOD upon the Earth, He would set His foot upon the Mount of Olives (Zech. 14:1-4). This is emphasized because Christ warned us about those who would be deceived about His coming (Matt. 24:23-27). We must completely trust in the word of GOD, and not what we assume to be correct. As mentioned earlier, this is the mighty angel who stands upon the sea and upon the earth, signifying that the message of the "little book" is for the whole world. GOD re-emphasizes to us the enormity, scope and impact that the message of the "little book" will have worldwide.
GOD gave the office to this mighty angel and HE is not a capricious GOD. Once HE has given you a position or responsibility, HE also gives you the power and authority to accomplish that endeavor set before you. If you are faithful, and loyal as Gabriel has been, you will have that position forever. Likewise he who overcomes, and endures unto the end, will be a pillar in the Temple of GOD, he will have that glorious position for all eternity (Rev. 3:12).
REV. 10:6
AND SWARE BY HIM THAT LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER, WHO CREATED HEAVEN, AND THE THINGS THAT THEREIN ARE, AND THE EARTH, AND THE THINGS THAT THEREIN ARE, AND THE SEA, AND THE THINGS WHICH ARE THEREIN,
Where do we see this similar phrase recorded, ... "and sware by him that liveth for ever." - It’s found in the book of Daniel, the parallel to Revelation. GOD revealed in (Dan.12 verse 4), "But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased." GOD told Daniel to shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end, and that is precisely what has been done.
The "little book" of Revelation 10
REV. 10:6 (con't).
Thousands have tried down through the ages to decipher, to interpret, to decode and understand the prophecies of Daniel, which he himself didn’t understand. They all failed miserably because the leaned to their own understanding, relying on their own reasoning, their own logic, concept, and analysis: which without GOD'S holy spirit is nothing but an endeavor in futility.
Without the GOD revealed knowledge of the prophecies of Daniel, you'll never understand the end-time prophecies. Never! Note - the time-coded prophecies of the "70 weeks" and the “1290 days" each contributing to predict the imminence of the "Times of the Gentiles" and of the ascendancy and the reign of the '' Beast." Not only are the prophecies of Daniel uniquely time-coded, but their implementation can only be initiated by and through the Gentiles.
GOD has declared in - (Rom. 9:28), … "because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth." At the point in time of (Sept.2000), no one in the World understood the prophecies of Daniel, Revelation, Matt.24 and others, except GOD'S servant, no one else! Why? Because it would be utter confusion if GOD re-vealed HIS prophecies and revelations through more than one individual at a time (Zech. 4:6-10). GOD works through only one person at a time. One that is obedient to HIM, one that loves HIS truth and will not compromise with it. That's how GOD does it, it doesn't matter how man would want it done (Isa. 55:8).
Skipping down to the end of verse 6, Daniel 12, …"How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?" Continuing, (Dan. 12 verse 7), "And I heard the man (angel) clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he (the Beast - Rev. 11:7), shall have accom-plished to scatter (break) the power of (to overcome and to kill) the holy people, (the Two Witnesses and the Saints in the Tribulation) (Rev. 6:9 -11), all these things shall be finished" (Rev. 11:7-15).
THAT THERE SHOULD BE TIME NO LONGER:
What does the phrase "that there should be time no longer" mean? It reveals that the --- "Times of the Gentiles" (Rev. 11:2; Luke 21:24), and their reign of terror is over for the Saints, now resurrected. The end-time prophecies of God are being fulfilled, and the plan of Salvation for the Firstfruits will soon be completed.
Rev 10: 7
BUT IN THE DAYS OF THE VOICE OF THE SEVENTH ANGEL, WHEN HE SHALL BEGIN TO SOUND,
Verse seven of (Revelation 10), follows -- IMMEDIATELY -- after the conclusion of verse six. (Rev. 10:7), "But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound," … Three of the most monumental things that has ever happened upon this Earth will happen within moments of each other, when Gabriel sounds the last trump.
First, ... "The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever" (Rev. 11:15). Second, the two witnesses and all that have died in Christ will be resurrected to glorious life eternal (l Thess. 4:16).
The "little book" of Revelation 10
REV. 10:7 (con't).
Third, the seventh trump also announces and declares --- the beginning of --- "THE DAY OF THE LORD" (Rev. 11:15), when GOD begins to pour out HIS "seven last vials of wrath" (Rev. 16:1-21), upon the unrepentant sinners of the world, those who have accepted the mark of the Beast, and have destroyed GOD'S people.
GOD allows the Beast, and False Prophet, their forty-two month reign of terror (Rev. 13:1-18), to punish those in rebellion to HIM. The only modicum of restraint that GOD allows will be by HIS two witnesses (II Thess. 2:7), who thwart and punish the Gentiles with plagues as often as they will (Rev. 11:6), by and through the holy spirit.
THE MYSTERY OF GOD WILL BE FINISHED, AS HE HATH DECLARED TO HIS SERVANTS THE PROPHETS.
The mystery of GOD --- truths that have been previously hidden, will have been divinely revealed, and all end-time prophecy, will be fulfilled concerning GOD'S plan of salvation for the harvest of HIS firstfruits, as HE will declare through HIS servants the prophets.
REV 10:8
AND THE VOICE WHICH I HEARD FROM HEAVEN SPAKE UNTO ME AGAIN,
GOD is persistent that we get the message of this "little book," because the time frame of (Rev. 10), is
just prior to the start of the "Times of the Gentiles."
The "little book" is open, it is not sealed. It has been open from its inception, but there wasn't any thing recorded in it until the [Seven Thunders] of (Rev. 10:4). Then GOD inspired to be understood, the seven end-of-the-end-time thunderous revelations, for those HE has called.
Christ stated in (Rev. 3:17), "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:" Yes we are much increased in goods, due to the unprecedented prosperity of the last 10 years. That prosperity was foretold and fulfilled in (Rev. 3:17). We have increased in homes, vehicles, and material things, almost to the point where we are becoming like the World. Those material things are becoming our gods. Because of that, we are miserable and wretched, we are unfulfilled, uninspired and without peace of mind. WE are poor in the power of GOD'S holy spirit, blind to HIS glorious truths, and naked and vulnerable to the onslaught of Satan. GOD warns that we are all Laodiceans, seeking the physical rather than the spiritual.
Will we as Laodiceans repent (Rev. 3:18-19), and become the pillars, and the loyal remnant, that GOD desires; that is the question?
The CHURCH OF GOD needs an end-time course correction: we have drifted into a Laodicean sea of error, of compromise and deception. We were all adrift; (Rev. 12:9), but this "little book" will be the rudder that GOD uses to steers us back to the true course of our calling. It addresses thunderous truths, that must be restored, revelations that must be understood, and acted upon, and deceptions that must be dispelled.
The "little book" of Revelation 10
REV. 10:8 (con't).
The "little book" is an anchor in the bedrock of truth; it is so vital and pivotal, that without it you will not be able to understand prophecy and to comprehend what will happen in the immediate future. -- An example in point -- it isn't enough to know the identity of the ten nations of the great Whore. Why? Because those things happen after the CHURCH OF GOD has fled into the wilderness. The event that triggers the start of the fulfillment of end-time prophecy is the "2300 days" of (Daniel 8:1-14). This prophecy will be fulfilled in the near future, when the Sanctuary is cleansed.
Many will be offended by the acrid and frank statements of this "little book." Some will ridicule it, others will scoff at it, but a precious few, GOD`S jewels (Mal. 3:17), will respond to it, repent and fulfill the glorious commission GOD has given them to do.
Many in the end-time Laodicean Churches will say, as noted in (Isa. 30:10), ... "Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:" We are being tested to see if we love GOD`S truth, as recorded in (Heb. 4:12). "For the word of GOD is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." GOD will know your thoughts, and the intents of your heart (mind), after you read this "little book."
We are admonished by the Apostle Paul in (Phil. 2:12), ... "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." It's your decision, you alone, are responsible for your salvation. It's not the decision and responsibility of your mate, or your relatives, or your friends, or your ministers, or anyone else. Take your doubts and questions to GOD THE FATHER through heartfelt prayer and fasting, through diligent Bible studies and in-depth meditation. GOD called you personally; therefore, do not jeopardize your salvation. Do not put your trust in the ideas, traditions, and the so-called wisdom of men. Implicitly trust GOD, and Jesus Christ, and THEIR words of life.
For those who initially reject the "little book" and do not become part of this end-time warning work (Ezek. 33); they will be tried in the fiery crucible of the Tribulation (Rev. 12:17). Those who go into the Tribulation will have to overcome, and fulfill their commission, by preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom Of GOD, to their brethren, their captors, and their enemies. GOD will not have anyone in HIS KINGDOM that doesn't love HIS truth, and HIS perfect way of life. HE won't allow anymore Satans; but remember that GOD loves you beyond measure. HE loves the sinner, but HE hates the sin. Upon repentance, and acceptance of HIS restored truths, and obedience to HIS glorious way of life, HE will give you the gift of eternal life in the FAMILY OF GOD. You may not believe what is written here, but time will be the final judge, and as it is recorded in (Ezek. 33:33), " And when this cometh to pass, (lo, it will come,) then shall they know that a prophet hath been among them."
WHICH STANDETH UPON THE SEA AND UPON THE EARTH.
This symbolic stance of the mighty angel is repeated for emphasis, because this message must go to every member around the World that GOD has called into HIS CHURCH.
REV 10:9
AND I WENT UNTO THE ANGEL, AND SAID UNTO HIM, GIVE ME THE LITTLE BOOK. AND HE SAID UNTO ME, TAKE IT, AND EAT IT UP; AND IT SHALL MAKE THY BELLY BITTER,
When you first start to read the "little book" it may appear bitter, and rather harsh. The truth can be very bitter, especially when we come to realize that we had accepted some of the deceitful lies of Satan, as
The "little book" of Revelation 10
REV. 10:9 (con't).
opposed to the truth of the LIVING GOD. No one likes to admit that we had swallowed some error, while digesting the truth. Self-centered, evil human nature (Rom. 8:7), being what it is --- opposed to GOD ---
makes us angry when we are shown, that we were in error. It makes our belly bitter; a gall of bitterness (Heb. 12:15).
The "little book" speaks in a very authoritatively manner. That will offend many, but GOD would have it no other way. GOD is not going to plead with you forever (Jer. 25:30-38), time is too short. The lion has roared, prophecy must be declared, errors must be corrected, for the end-time is upon us. You must come out of that Laodicean blindness, and seek GOD with your whole heart. Christ lovingly tells us in (Rev. 3:20), "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." The greatest invitation in the universe, and invitation to the marriage supper of the Lamb (Rev. 19:9). Oh! What love GOD has for us, if we will only yield to HIS perfect way.
BUT IT SHALL BE IN THY MOUTH SWEET AS HONEY.
GOD wants each and every one of us to thoroughly digest the "little book," to assimilate it till it becomes a very part of our being. To use the "little book" as a plummet {plumb bob}, (Zech. 4:9-10), as an instrument that does not deviate from the true vertical direction of GOD`S truth, as revealed through CHRIST, down to HIS end-time prophets (Acts 3:22-23). Yes, if we will embrace the truth of the LIVING GOD, and live that truth as well, it will be as sweet in our mouth as honey, and balm to our soul.
Rev 10:10
AND I TOOK THE LITTLE BOOK OUT OF THE ANGEL`S HAND, AND ATE IT UP; AND IT WAS IN MY MOUTH SWEET AS HONEY;
The Apostle John knew the "little book" was the end-time truth from the LIVING GOD and was in his mouth sweet as honey. To those called of GOD, the "little book" takes us back to a more innocent child-like time of our first love, when we were first called and introduced to the glorious truth of the LIVING GOD. It was a time of awe and wonder, of learning and knowledge, of mystery and reverence for GOD`S way of life. Yes it was sweet, as sweet as honey to the mouth (Prov. 24:13-14).
AND AS SOON AS I HAD EATEN IT, MY BELLY WAS BITTER.
John also had the painful, sober, nauseous, gut wrenching bitterness brought about by the realization that many will lose their eternal salvation through rebellion (Rev. 22:10-21). Likewise many through the momentary rejection of GOD`S truth will be confronted by, and plunged into, the indescribable horror of captivity, deprivation, suffering, and death in the Tribulation (Ezek. 3:17, 33:3-5; Rev. 6:9-11).
REV 10:11
We must boldly prophesy again, all of the prophecies that the prophets of the Old and New Testaments prophesied concerning the end of this age and the soon coming KINGDOM Of GOD. All of the prophecies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Zechariah, Revelation, and any and all scripture that is relevant for this end-time must be thundered to the Church and to the World as a final warning message.
Contrary to what we have been taught in the past, the scripture of (Matt. 24:14), has not been fulfilled. The fulfillment of this scripture starts the moment the "little book" of (Revelation 10), is revealed first to the
The "little book" of Revelation 10
REV. 10:11 (con't).
CHURCH OF GOD; second to the Nations of Israel, next to the Tongues of the World, the different languages and races, and finally to the Kings of the Beast power. All prophecies that are relative to this end-of-the-end-time, both Old and New Testament prophecies must be preached, and published again to the whole world. Then shall the end come, the end of the rule of man, over man. (Matt. 24:14), "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come."
BEFORE MANY PEOPLES,
First the end-time revelations and warning prophecies of the "little book" must go to all of those called of GOD, the CHURCH OF GOD. Initially it will be started through GOD'S servant: then joined by hundreds of loyal members, who will have accepted the restored truths. They will then faithfully, and diligently, fulfill their GOD ordained watchman's warning commission of (Ezekiel 33), to their Laodicean Brethren (Rev. 3:17-19).
AND NATIONS,
Next the Two Witnesses (Rev. 11:3-12; Zech. 3 & 4), and the "PILLARS" of (Rev. 3:7-13), --- those who fulfill their commission, just before going to their place of Safety (Rev. 12:14), --- must also support a strong warning message, to the Nations of Israel.
AND TONGUES,
During the "Times of the Gentiles" the Two Witnesses will send a thunderous warning, and condemning message, to the peoples of different languages and races, the masses of the World. When these warnings go unheeded; havoc will be unleashed through the elements of fire, wind, and hail. The Two Witnesses, through the power of GOD'S holy spirit will bring the --- plagues --- of (Rev. 11:6), upon those who will not repent of their idolatrous ways.
AND KINGS.
The Two Witnesses give a final scathing, convicting witness to the Kings of the Beast power and their followers. This is the final gospel and witness preached by man (Matt. 24:14). The Two Witnesses are killed (Rev. 11:7), and then comes the final martyrdom of the Saints by the Beast. The Witness that restrained (II Thess. 2:7-8), is taken out of the way and there is no power of restraint on the Beast at that point. That wicked Beast then with unrestrained terror will reign in all of his satanic evil. GOD THE FATHER, will then pour out the vials of HIS wrath (Rev. 16), because if not stopped, man would destroy all life upon this Earth (Matt. 24:22). GOD will then send Jesus Christ (Matt. 24:36), with His Bride to punish, subdue, and finally destroy, those wicked forces of Satan as recorded in (Rev. 19:19-21). Finally, Satan will be bound (Rev. 20:2), and then the glorious Kingdom Of GOD will be established upon this Earth (Rev. 20:4).
FIRST
THUNDEROUS REVELATION
BELIEVE A LIE
This is a Satanic lie of such enormity (II Thess. 2), with such far reaching consequences, that it will almost destroy all human life, from off the face of this Earth (Matt. 24:22). Most in this end-time age will believe, follow, dedicate their lives to, and worship the Beast as revealed in (II Thess. 2:4).
I will preface this first thunder (which GOD wants revealed to HIS end-time CHURCH) with knowledge of an evil, which has presided, since the Garden of Eden. The scripture that reveals this diabolic plot against mankind is recorded in (Rev. 12:9), "And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world." --- YES! Everyone born of the seed of man, from the progeny of Adam to this present time has been deceived. Even the CHURCH OF GOD, shortly after the death of the Apostle John was succumbing to the deception of Satan.
The truths once delivered to the Apostles (Jude 3), has slowly been eroded and compromised down through the ages to this end-time through the deception of Satan. Through the deception of Satan I was deceived, you are deceived, Herbert W. Armstrong was deceived. All of the ministers and members of the CHURCH, who have been called, were at this point in time (Sept. 2000), still deceived. Satan has done a masterful job of deception. The seeds of deception that he has sown have brought forth a bitter vine that is choking the truth, and if it is not checked, it will consume the CHURCH OF GOD. I could shout it from the house tops a thousand times ten thousand, and it still wouldn't be enough to warn each and every one of you, about that master deceiver who has deceived the whole world (Rev. 20:3,8).
As the CHURCH OF GOD one of our best weapons to overcome Satan and his deception, is to each day diligently, and obediently, study the word of GOD (Acts 17:11). Ask yourself, why do we believe, what we believe? Our belief is based on what we think is the truth, even if it is a lie! Moral, and absolute truth, can only come from the word of GOD (John 17:17). A notable point on this subject is; if you cannot verify in the Bible what you believe --- then you are believing a lie!
This admonition is to those called of GOD. GOD says that in the end time HE is going to send them strong delusion; that's recorded in (II Thess. 2:11). " And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie." GOD will allow you, your rebellious delusions; but remember, Paul did not tell the Thessalonians to accept all things, he told them to prove all things (I Thess. 5:21).
Starting in (II Thess. 2:10), "And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved." The principal reason is revealed in the latter part of verse 12, …" WHO BELIEVED NOT THE TRUTH, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." They --- WILL NOT BELIEVE THE TRUTH --- and revelation that GOD is going to reveal to them in this "little book." They will cling to their own ideas, concepts, and traditions, taught to them through men, and will not believe the sure Word of GOD. They trust men to interpret the Bible for them, instead of relying on the revelation of the Word of GOD.
At one time they understood the majority of the truth, at least, what was given to them. But when GOD
sent HIS servant to restore all truth, as HE said HE would, (Acts 3:22-23), "For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A PROPHET SHALL THE LORD YOUR GOD RAISE UP UNTO YOU OF YOUR BRETHREN, LIKE UNTO ME; HIM SHALL YE HEAR IN ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER HE SHALL SAY UNTO YOU. AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS, THAT EVERY SOUL, WHICH WILL NOT HEAR THAT PROPHET, SHALL BE DESTROYED FROM AMONG THE PEOPLE." They rejected that truth as revealed by GOD.
They clung to what they thought was the truth. They accepted everything that they had been taught by men, and weren't willing to change when shown the truth of the LIVING GOD. They are guilty of one of the worst sins that GOD says a man can commit, trusting in men (Jer. 17:5).
BELIEVE A LIE (con't).
Many will hold on to the lies they have been taught through deceived men, even though those men were sincere in their beliefs, they were still wrong. The seven thunderous revelations in this "little book" address and correct those wrongs, as inspired by GOD. But many will still follow man through Satan's deception, and believe a lie; and will disregard these thunderous revelations of GOD. They believed as they were taught, without proving it for themselves from the Bible. When prophecy was revealed to them through this "little book" and the prophecies proved true, they will then realize that they were wrong. But do you think that they will repent? Many will not. Human nature usually doesn't respond that way -- it normally tries to justify its actions, and is unwilling to admit wrong. Those who reject the restored truths and prophecies of GOD, will remain under the influence and deceit of Satan. They will never become the very elect; as they watch the prophesied events being fulfilled (Amos 3:7), many will allow a root of bitterness to start to grow (Heb. 12:5). They will become frustrated, spiteful and evil. Their love will wax cold, to the point, that they will even be willing to betray their brethren to death (Matt. 24:9-12).
They represent the five foolish virgins of (Matt. 25:1-13), -- which typify one half of the CHURCH OF GOD. They will have quenched GOD'S holy spirit (verse 8), and are in rebellion to GOD, for they are of their father the Devil. Through his lies and deceit, many will accept the mark of the Beast. Accepting the mark of the Beast embodies the defiling of GOD'S Sabbath, which is the unpardonable sin, because it blasphemes the holy spirit by which the Sabbath day is made holy (Mark 3:29). GOD will then bring
upon them, plagues of indescribable pain, and suffering, for their vile sins (Rev. 16:1-11), and in the final judgment, they will lose their eternal salvation.
GOD said HE would send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie (II Thess. 2:11). The dictionary describes "delusion" as a false belief or opinion. GOD is saying HE -- would send -- HIS representatives (men) who through Satan's deception, preached false beliefs. The Church accepted these false beliefs and doctrines as the truth, and in doing so, they now believe a lie. We know who is the architect of lies, and deceit, as recorded in (Rev. 12:9). Satan has, just short of 6000 years deceived --- EVERYONE --- born of the seed of man. If GOD had not removed the scales from my eyes (Rev. 3:18), I too, would still be in bondage to deception. Satan has so deceived, and confused, the Church that it is in rebellion to GOD. The Church has splintered and degenerated to the point, where it is fast becoming almost unrecognizable, as the CHURCH OF GOD.
Christ stated in (John 8:32), "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Yes, GOD wants you to know the truth, and then you can be free from the deceit and bondage of Satan. Christ is preparing to open the door for the very elect; but each and ever one of us has to walk through that door on his own.
GOD called Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong, and his wife Loma, to raise up the Philadelphia Era of the CHURCH OF GOD. That team did a marvelous work and GOD used them mightily. H.W.A. was a very talented individual; he was a good teacher, researcher, historian, organizer, and writer. He had the unique ability to pen his lucid and graphic thoughts with such perspective that the reader was able to visually comprehend the subject being portrayed. But the accomplishment that stands out as a beacon above all the others is the compilation of that invaluable and indispensable booklet, "The United States and the British Commonwealth in Prophecy.” Let me assure you by the authority of Jesus Christ, that without the knowledge of whom Israel is, you wouldn't be able to understand the Bible.
But there is another side of the issue that GOD wants you to know. Can you recall when H.W.A. taught us time and time again about the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Gen. 2:9)? The fruit of that tree could have been almost perfect, but that small amount of evil within will eventually poison and destroy every-thing. It's like the example that H.W.A. gave of a rotten apple in a barrel of apples. It infects the one next
to it, so on, and on, until the whole barrel becomes a vile, rotten, stinking mess. Most of the things that H.W.A. taught were correct, but take the 18 restored truths, they are an example of truth mixed with error, some of those purported restored truths are incorrect. True, a large percentage of all that he taught was
correct. The trouble is within that small percentage of error which was taught, it is tearing the Church asunder. We weren't aware of it then, but GOD has revealed that when Mrs. Loma Armstrong died, things
BELIEVE A LIE (con't).
started to change drastically, and it wasn't for the good. After her death, H.W.A. went to the world and received so-called sophisticated, legal counsel. That worldly counsel, which came from Satan, not only cost H.W.A. and the Church financially, but it impoverished us physically, morally and spiritually as well.
GOD has revealed that when Mrs. Loma Armstrong died, Church stability was effected, things started to go awry. The Church started to lose its purpose, its direction, and even its purported commission. Turning from GOD'S truth was almost imperceptible at first, but slowly it gained momentum and like a runaway train it was headed for certain destruction. The Church was entering into a Laodicean attitude through the deception of Satan. Why? Because we were starting to compromise with the truth of GOD. Who was responsible? You have heard the phrase, that the train went off the track. If the train goes off the track who is to blame? Was it the conductor's fault? No. Was it the passenger's fault? No. Whose fault was it? It was the fault of the engineer; he is responsible for the train and its passengers, and no one else. The shepherd is solely responsible for the sheep (John 10:11). When the train went off the track, Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong blamed the liberal ministers first, and second the women with the make-up that wanted to rule the Church. They may have contributed to the rebellion, but GOD has revealed that Mr. Armstrong was to blame; if you are a watchman (Ezekiel 33), and something goes wrong on your watch, you are responsible.
Let's start where the Church started going off the track, this may be a very bitter pill to swallow, but GOD wants the truth revealed. H.W.A. took for himself titles and offices that were not his to take. He said he was an --- Apostle --- which is incorrect, two conditions must be met to be an Apostle (Acts 1:16-26). First, you had to live during the time that Jesus Christ lived upon this Earth, and second, you had to be per-sonally taught by Jesus Christ. H.W.A. also assumed the office of a --- Prophet. But GOD reveals that in (Deut. 18:15-22), that if you prophesy something and it does not come true. Then GOD says that you do not speak for HIM, that you have made it up yourself and you are a false prophet. Did GOD reveal to H.W.A. --- "1975 in Prophecy"--- of course not? H. W. A. and his staff fabricated it because they thought they understood prophecy. What does that make him, because it didn't come true? GOD says he is a false Prophet. Prophecies that he made concerning the past were wrong; and prophecies that he has made for the future concerning the Beast power and other end-time events will also prove to be wrong. GOD is telling us that if a person makes a false prophecy: then you should not fear him or believe his false prophecies.
No, H.W.A. was not an Apostle, nor was he a Prophet, he was an Evangelist called by GOD to teach and educate the Church. His commission is outlined in (Matt. 28:19-20), " Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Amen.
And therein lies the problem. GOD called Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong to raise up the Philadelphia Era of the CHURCH OF GOD. To teach them, to baptize them, to love and nurture them, to prepare them for that great commission the lay just ahead for them. In the vernacular, he got the cart before the horse. His commission was to the Philadelphia Era; to teach, educate, and prepare the Church, for their final warning commission in the Laodicean Era. But that wasn't what he did, he took it upon himself to preach and teach that the Philadelphia Era's commission was (Matt. 24:14). The (Matt. 24:14), commission is yet to be fulfilled by the Two Witnesses in the end-time, which is yet in the near future. It is to be a … "witness unto all nations;"… by whom, by the Two Witnesses of course (Rev. 11:3-7).
He was a good historian; he could understand and evaluate events historically, such as "U.S.& B.C. In Prophecy," and the Church Eras: but when it came to end-time prophecy, he like the millions before him could not comprehend what the future held. Prophecy can only be revealed by GOD and that to whom, and when, and why, only HE decides (Amos 3:7).
BELIEVE A LIE (con't).
Mr. Armstrong also taught about the seven Church Eras, he was correct in that teaching. What the mystery is as to why he didn't realize that he was over the sixth Era, and another Era, the seventh, had to follow after him. GOD never places one man over two Eras (Rev. 1:20; 11:4; Zech. 3&4); evidently he did not understand that. The crux of the problem arose from the fact that he was deceived concerning his commission, which has caused considerable disarray in the CHURCH.
In his zeal, he like almost every Christian that has ever lived probably felt that he was going to be present at the return of Jesus Christ. GOD has inspired prophecy to be written in such a veiled manner that most felt that Jesus Christ would return in their lifetime. I am confident it was written in such a manner, that it would be a prod to inspire us all to be constant and fervent about our FATHER'S business.
In his conviction that the Philadelphia Era was a warning commission started him on a laborious, and tortured effort, to mold and twist scripture, to fit his pre-conceived notions concerning end-time prophecy. When Mr. Armstrong finally realized that he was not going to see the return of Jesus Christ, he became disappointed and sad to say he turned to the world for consolation and counsel. Egregious mistakes were committed, which caused loss of faith in some, great pain in many, and confusion to all within the CHURCH, and by the authority of Jesus Christ those mistakes are going to be corrected (Acts 3:19-26). Please realize that GOD works through men; and we are all unclean vessels. We must yield ourselves to (Our Master Potter); that HE, through HIS Holy Spirit, may fashion us into a vessel of honor, (Isa. 64:8).
THUNDEROUS REVELATION
SABBATH
The Sabbath is another area that Satan's deception has been so devastating, but there is a key that will help you to dispel that deception, in order that you may have a more complete understanding of the Sabbath. That key is, that the Sabbath is not a Feast Day, it is a day of rest, worship and contemplation; and a Feast Day is not a Sabbath, it is a day for observance, feasting and rejoicing. GOD makes a distinction between the Sabbath and the Feast Days in (Levi. 23:1-44), read it very carefully. There is a defined difference between the Sabbath --- which is observed weekly --- and the Feast Days which are observed annually. Those of wisdom should note; that -- Strong's Concordance #7676 -- reveals that the sabbath in (Levi. 23:3), is defined as [the Sabbath]. Whereas -- Strong's #7677 -- reveals that the sabbath in (Levi. 23:24,39), is defined as [special holiday:--rest]. The Sabbath represents GOD'S CREATION: the Feast Days represents MAN'S SALVATION. One other point, (which may test your obedience) when a Feast Day falls on the Sabbath, the Sabbath has priority, you observe it as a Sabbath.
This second thunderous revelation concerns --- the restoration of the holy Sabbath --- to the original intent of GOD THE FATHER. As Saints we are to live by every word, law, commandment, statute and judgment of GOD. There is one commandment that GOD has decreed, holy. That is the Sabbath commandment, which is an identifying sign between Him and His people (Ex. 31:12-17). For hundreds of years the CHURCH has been following the pattern of the "world's churches" --- that of congregational assemblies --- and not the example, --- that of a personal relationship with our FATHER --- which Jesus Christ gave us, concerning the proper way to observe the Sabbath. In fact the misunderstanding, and the desecration of the Sabbath, may have been long entrenched, even before the Sardis Era of GOD'S CHURCH began.
Why haven't we been keeping the Sabbath holy? (1). GOD commands us not to dwell on our physical pleasures and pursuits on the Sabbath. But to have a joyful convocation as a family on the Sabbath, and seek to develop a strong, loving, spiritual relationship with HIM. But what do we do, we gather together
in groups, and assemblies, where most of our thoughts and conversation are not spiritual. (2). GOD commands us to keep the Sabbath within our habitations [our homes, hotels, motels or where ever we are residing on the Sabbath], but not some facility that would require us to travel on the Sabbath to be
SABBATH (con't).
present there. Why do you think the Church is in confusion? Who wants to keep you deceived? Who are you following? Who are you obeying (Rev. 12:9)? (3). GOD commands us not to travel on the Sabbath, but brethren all over the world travel on the Sabbath to so called commanded assemblies, established through men, --- and not through GOD --- and in doing so, they defile the Sabbath. Lets go to the word of GOD and let HIM prove to you what -- HE Commanded -- (not man), as to how the holy Sabbath should be observed.
GOD instructs us in (Exodus 20:8), "Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy."
How does a person keep the Sabbath holy? Lets look to GOD'S word to see exactly what we must do to keep the Sabbath holy. Turn in your Bible to (Leviticus 23:3), "SIX DAYS SHALL WORK BE DONE:" Those are our six days: for work, business, recreation, pleasure or whatever your desires may be, as long as they are within the framework of GODS laws and commandments.
"BUT THE SEVENTH DAY IS THE SABBATH OF REST," Can it be any plainer than that, you keep the Sabbath holy by resting on it. You defile the Sabbath by working on it, you defile the Sabbath by traveling on it, and you defile the Sabbath by doing your own physical pleasures. GOD shows us time and time again in (Exodus 20:8-11; Deuteronomy 5:12-15; Leviticus 23:3), that the only way to keep the Sabbath holy, is by resting on it.
GOD set the glorious example in (Genesis 2:2-3). HE has revealed to us that after that magnificent physical Creation, HE rested: HE rested to show us as to how we should rest from our physical labors, and how to have a holy convocation with HIM. GOD wants us to come out of our physical routines. HE doesn’t want us to just dwell on the physical, for if we do that we will eventually sever the spiritual bond we have with HIM.
"AN HOLY CONVOCATION;" The Sabbath is a sacred holy spiritual convocation between a person and his GOD. We have been taught that if we do not go to a congregational assembly on the Sabbath that we are not keeping the Sabbath holy. Lets go to the example of Jesus Christ on this issue, and not to the traditions of men. If the congregational assembly is what makes the Sabbath holy, then Jesus Christ did not keep the Sabbath holy during His forty day fast. He was in the wilderness by himself for forty days (Matt. 4:1-2), and He did not attend any commanded assemblies. No, He did not break the Sabbath commandment because Christ was perfect in every aspect of His life. He had a sacred, holy, spiritual convocation with His FATHER each Sabbath, while He was in the wilderness. Another point concerning so called commanded assemblies, what about the sick, those that are injured, those physically disabled, and a woman ready to give birth. By man's interpretation of the Sabbath, they would be committing a sin, by not attending a congregational assembly on the Sabbath. Those who are sick, injured, disabled, and ready to give birth could still honor GOD on the Sabbath, as commanded in their homes. GOD does not command you to do something, and then make it impossible for you to do it.
"YE SHALL DO NO WORK THEREIN:" It’s a sin to work on the Sabbath, and in the case of the man who was gathering sticks (Num. 15:32-36), it cost him his life. Did you ever ask yourself why he was gathering sticks? From the context, and edified by other passages (I Kings 17:9-16), it has been revealed that he was going to kindle a fire, for cooking. He sinned presumptuously, (through rebellion) therefore GOD had him stoned to death (Num. 15:36). GOD says not kindle a fire on the Sabbath (Ex. 35:3). Why? Because food is to be prepared on the day before, on Friday which is called by the Jews the preparation day (Ex. 16:23). The wife does her cooking and baking on Friday, and you eat on the Sabbath that portion which is left-over from Friday. Read the admonition GOD gave the Israelites, concerning the gathering of manna on the Sabbath (Ex. 16:11-30). We are not to purchase any food on the Sabbath; either from a market, a restaurant or from any source (Neh. 13:15-18). Food should not be a priority on the Sabbath, it is not a feast day. Don't let your physical desires rule your life. GOD wants you to come to HIS table, and dine spiritually, especially on the Sabbath. As human beings we may reason that these instructions are trivial, archaic, and unsophisticated, but what does GOD say, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord" (Isa. 55:8).
SABBATH (con't).
If GOD says to do it --- we don't --- if HE says not to do it --- we do. What a sad commentary on our evil, selfish, perverted, human nature. Only by living GOD'S way will HE give us the gift of eternal life. As it is written in, (Luke 4:4), --- "That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of GOD."
The person that gathered the sticks was under the Old Covenant, it cost him his physical life. Under the New Covenant, if you purposely and willingly break and desecrate GOD'S holy Sabbath you are committing the unpardonable sin. John speaks of the unpardonable sin in the latter part of (I John 5:16), … "There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it." This is the contemptuous sin, of deliberately defiling, and breaking, of the holy Sabbath commandment after knowing the glorious truth of GOD. Through derision, they sneeringly, hatefully, and scornfully break the Sabbath. God inspired John to write that you don’t even pray for a person like that because he willingly through arrogance, and insolence, has rejected GOD'S way, by publicly and outwardly defiling the Sabbath. The Sabbath is a sign between man and his GOD (Ezek. 20:12). If we sever that bond with GOD for what ever insane reason, be it through rebellion, fear, hatred, intellectual vanity, accepting the mark of the Beast, ad infinitum, (WE DEFILE THE SABBATH), then we will lose our eternal salvation. Those very elect who go into the Tribulation (Rev. 12:17), will have to be a willing sacrifice --willing to lay down their life-- in order to keep the Sabbath (Mark 8:34-38). Read and remember these scriptures, as if your eternal life depended upon it, because it does.
What does the Apostle Paul say in Hebrews concerning the unpardonable sin? (Heb. 6:4-6), "For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the HOLY GHOST, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame." How you honor the holy Sabbath will determine your salvation.
"IT IS THE SABBATH OF THE LORD IN ALL YOUR DWELLINGS."
You shouldn't be confused now as to where you keep the Sabbath; you keep the Sabbath in your home. Another example of Israel's rebellion against the Sabbath concerns the gathering of manna.--- "See, for that the Lord hath given you the sabbath, therefore he giveth you on the sixth day the bread of two days; abide ye every man in his place, let no man go out of his place on the seventh day" (Exodus 16:29). --- It appears that the moment they went outside of their dwellings, strife and problems occurred. At least on one day of the week, the Sabbath, when they remained in their homes, there would be physical peace in the camp of Israel.
GOD set the perfect example of resting on the Sabbath in (Gen. 2:2), when Christ the Word taught (His children) Adam and Eve in Eden. This is exemplary for now and in the place of Safety when the father (who represents Christ), with his wife (the Church), at his side, teach …"thy children like olive plants round about thy table" (Psalm 128:3). They will grow to mature fruit brimming with the oil of GOD'S holy spirit: because they will be taught on the Sabbath the love, respect, honor, and knowledge, of the GREAT GOD. This will turn the heart of the fathers to their children, and the heart of the children to their fathers (Mal. 4:6). These loving children, and their honorable parents, will be the genesis of the World Tomorrow. When the KINGDOM OF GOD is established, they will journey from the place of Safety, cross the Jordan River into the promised land, and at CHRIST'S throne, will dwell gloriously, and peacefully, in a land that will flow with milk and honey.
Christ gave the Israelites at Mt. Sinai some instructions as to how to prepare for the Sabbath. Contrary to what we have been taught the Ten Commandments were not given to the children of Israel on Pentecost, but on the Sabbath as it was originally given to Adam and Eve. In (Exodus 19:1), the Israelites came out of Egypt on a Thursday, -- It Is A Night To Be Much Observed (Ex. 12:42), -- and on the same weekday, Thursday, they came into the wilderness of Sinai. Then in (Ex. 19:10-11), …"and sanctify them to day and
SABBATH (con't).
to morrow, and let them wash their clothes." We were taught that they washed their clothes on (today) Saturday, and (to morrow) Sunday, and on the third day Monday, (Pentecost) received the Ten Commandments at Mt. Sinai. You know and I know that that whole scenario is incorrect, Christ would not have them washing their clothes on the Sabbath, and Pentecost is not on a Monday. The truth of (Ex. 19:10-11), is that the washed their clothes (today) Thursday, (and to morrow) Friday, and the third day was the Sabbath, when GOD supernaturally revealed to the House of Israel, HIS commandments at Mt.Sinai (Ex. 20:1-20).
A long dissertation, but I wanted to relate the instructions Christ has for us concerning the Sabbath. Christ said to wash your clothes, to have clean, comfortable, presentable clothing. A suit is not required. Clean clothes, would pre-suppose a clean body. Christ says that we should not have sexual relations on the Sabbath (Ex. 19:15). Christ is showing us time and time again that we must get our minds off the physical, and concentrate on the spiritual. Food is to be prepared on Friday the preparation day (Ex. 16:23), so that the wife and mother, can enjoy the Sabbath apart from her normal physical routine as well. Sever the physical contact you have with this world, and what an enjoyable Sabbath you will have. Unplug the T. V., the radio, the computer, the telephone; forget the newspaper and all other physical distractions, concentrate on the spiritual, GOD will bountifully bless you for that.
Another area where-by we desecrate the Sabbath is by traveling on it. GOD commands us not to travel on the Sabbath; beyond the example set by Jesus Christ, who traveled no more than a Sabbath day's journey. "Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey" (Acts 1:12). What's a sabbath day's journey? We're given the example above, it's a rather short distance, -- less than a mile -- and that's to be traveled by foot as Christ did. Christ didn't use any animals for transportation either, they were to have their rest on the Sabbath as well. Many would cite (Mark 2:23-28), about the disciples eating grain on the Sabbath, and that they traveled on the Sabbath. Rest assured that they traveled no more than a Sabbath day's journey, for if they had, the Jews would have stoned them for breaking the Sabbath commandment.
Christ admonished us in (Isa. 58:13), "If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day;" ... The foot does what? It travels, it carries us about, but Christ says turn your foot away, don't do your pleasure, and travel on the Sabbath. All of our modern inventions are no more than extensions of our body parts. The automobile, bus, truck, train, planes, boats, and etc. are just extensions of our foot, and we are not to do our pleasure and use them for transportation on the Sabbath.Those who honor GOD'S restored Sabbath, will not travel on it. They will keep the Sabbath in their respective homes. Those in the place of Safety, and those in the Kingdom of GOD, (may attend local Sabbath functions), but they will not travel on the Sabbath, except as Christ did -- on foot and not beyond a Sabbath day's journey. Read (Matt. 24:20; Luke 9:24). Christ admonishes us about travel on the Sabbath.
You may ask why didn't we keep the Sabbath properly all of these years? The answer to that is Satan. We were all under his complete deception, through men, concerning the Sabbath. Even in GOD'S Church men were influenced by the methods, and doctrines, of Satan, manifested through power, and economic control, over men through religion. The Laodicean ministers still use the Sabbath as their pulpit, and are willing to preach for hire, an abomination in GOD'S sight. Satan doesn't want us to properly observe the Sabbath.
He is the author of the confusion (Rev. 12:9), and it reveals that he had us completely deceived. He could go before Christ (Rev. 12:10-17), and RIGHTLY accuse us of breaking GOD'S commandments. He knows that if he can keep the very elect deceived, and they continue breaking the Sabbath, that they will lose their eternal salvation. Satan's perverted desire is to destroy the proper observance of the holy Sabbath, between GOD and HIS people.
If you recall we were observing Pentecost on the wrong day, and GOD winked at our ignorance, but once it was properly restored, and we did not observe it, then GOD did not wink at our rebellion. The same applies for HIS Sabbath, HE winked at our ignorance, but now we know the proper way to observe the
SABBATH (con't).
Sabbath, He will not condone our rebellion. From the day that you receive the information within the "little book" you will be judged as to how you observe the Sabbath. It is the only sign between GOD and HIS people (Ezek. 20:20).
GOD allowed this trial; for in times past, we were just spiritual babes, in need of milk, (symbolic of our "Mother's" partial truth), (Titus 1:13-14). But now, GOD wants us to be spiritual Saints, and individually take of the strong meat, (symbolic of our "Father's" complete truth), (John 17:17). GOD does not want us to follow the confused Laodicean Churches, over 238 as of today, those who teach erroneous and compromised truths. He wants us to obey and live by His glorious "TRUTH." He wants us to be mature, of a full age, which can discern both good and evil, (Heb. 5:12-14).
The Sabbath is holy time, every second of it, from Friday sunset till Saturday sunset. The Sabbath is made holy by the presence of GOD THE FATHER, and JESUS CHRIST, through the holy spirit. The purpose of the Sabbath is that we can personally have a holy convocation with our GOD (Mark 2:27-28).
The holy Sabbath is between a person and his GOD, it is not a group affair. The Sabbath Commandment, which is to be observed mainly within our homes, is a restored truth of the CHURCH OF GOD.
Time and space does not allow me to record all the wonderful things GOD has revealed to me concerning HIS Sabbath, but there is one very important point I want to make, and that is the blessings you will receive by properly keeping the Sabbath. I have enjoyed the Sabbath for over three years in my home,
and the relationship I have with my Father has brought me great peace, joy, and knowledge. I am confident that GOD would not have revealed to me HIS Thunderous Truths, if I had not been observing the Sabbath properly.
One final blessing that will have you walking on the high places of the earth, and that is the full measure of GOD'S holy spirit that HE will give to you for your obedience. It will give you the courage, confidence, faith, joy, and peace of mind, that you have never had before. He will give you the full measure of HIS spirit as promised in (Acts 5:32), because you are now worshipping, and obeying, HIM according to HIS will.
THIRD
THUNDEROUS REVELATION
MARRIAGE COVENANT
GOD commissions us to, "Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins" (Isa. 58:1). GOD says first to show HIS people the -- CHURCH OF GOD -- their transgressions. After their humble submission, and sincere repentance, they then must carry a crying aloud, warning indictment, against the house of Israel for their heinous sins. We cannot be hypocrites (Luke 6:42), wallowing in sin ourselves, while we attempt to warn others about their sins.
What is one of the sins of the world (especially of the house of Israel), that is literally destroying the nations, and the families, on this Earth? It is one of the worst, self-induced, immoral plagues, that mankind has ever brought upon itself.
The CHURCH is not immune from that virulent immoral plague, it is hemorrhaging, convulsing, and spiritually dying, from the sickness itself.
That sin is adultery, brought about by broken marriages, through divorce and remarriage. I realize the pain and anguish, suffering and remorse, the shame and embarrassment, that this truth will bring upon
MARRIAGE COVENANT (con't).
those in such adulterous relationships. But I also know that those who love their GOD, will yield, and submit themselves to HIM, and overcome their physical desires through HIS holy spirit. Jesus said the way would not be easy. He warned us, "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it" (Matt. 7:14). Those who can overcome this great trial in their lives, will be well on their way to the KINGDOM OF GOD.
If there is a problem or situation that we do not comprehend, what we need to do is to project it into the "World of Tomorrow," and as to how it would be resolved, and implemented, by the King of Kings, Jesus Christ. Using that example; will there be those who seek to divorce their mates in the "World of
Tomorrow ?" There may well be, knowing human nature, but how can you love someone as yourself, and impugn, and disgrace them, through divorce? A person initiating such a divorce (in the millennium), will have probably stepped over the line of GOD’S Law of Love, and may well end up in the lake of fire. If someone becomes divorced (in the millennium), can they remarry? If their mate still lives, absolutely not "by a rod of iron" they will not be allowed to remarry. The only exception to remarry is if their mate has died (Rom. 7:1-3). Adultery in any form, will not be tolerated in the soon coming KINGDOM OF GOD, the "World of Tomorrow."
Will GOD allow someone guilty of physical, or spiritual adultery, to marry HIS divine Son Jesus Christ? A resounding NO! Acts of physical adultery destroys the sanctity of marriage, which is the foundation of the family, the nation, the world, the universe, and the KINGDOM OF GOD. (Rev. 14:4), reveals that the CHURCH OF GOD, redeemed from this Earth …"were not defiled with women; for they are virgins."… They rejected the doctrines, and religion, of the Mother Of Harlots, (Rev. 17:1-5). The Church was not guilty of spiritual acts of adultery, and fornication; they were faithful to their GOD (Rev. 17:14).
Adultery committed as a result of a divorce and remarriage is an insidious sin. You are guilty of breaking all of GOD’S Commandments; when you commit such acts of adultery. You placed someone before GOD, through sin, when you commit adultery. Sex becomes an adulterous idol which is profane before GOD. You disgrace GOD'S name, when you continually commit acts of adultery. You are not keeping the Sabbath holy, by acts of adultery upon it. You dishonored your parents through divorce. You are guilty of murder, if hate entered into the divorce. You are living in adultery. You have stolen their GOD ordained mate. You lied to your mate about the marriage covenant. You coveted someone's mate through lust. What a condemning list of odious sins: if unrepented of they will cost you your eternal salvation.
Some may reason that they can repent after each adulterous act, but yet in their heart, looking forward in lust to the next encounter. GOD will forgive, and forget, your past adulterous sins, if repented of, but HE will not forgive you, if you continue living, and being involved, in an adulterous situation. You must, your eternal salvation depends upon it, to come out of any adulterous situation you are now in, and cease from any adulterous acts whatsoever.
I understand that most will think I am very harsh, and callous, in regard to this subject of divorce and remarriage, but there are no gray areas here. You are either in a GOD ordained marriage, or you are in an adulterous relationship (a marriage decreed by men), which is against GOD. I want you to prove this yourself from the word of GOD, don’t rely on man's doctrines, and literature, doing that has caused you to be in the sinful situation you are now in. It may not be entirely your fault as to what you believe, because you were taught a lie, but it is your guilt, and you will have to pay the penalty. You are guilty of one of the worst sins that GOD says a man can commit, trusting in men (Jer. 17:5). What did Mr. Armstrong constantly say "don't trust me, trust the Bible." You know what we did as a CHURCH, we trusted Mr. Armstrong implicitly, and didn't put our trust in GOD'S word the Bible. Repent, and then, don't rely upon men, trust only in the word of GOD.
The question can be asked do you love the person you are involved with in your adulterous affair, or is it just lust? If you love them, and desire the best for them, you will set them free, from the sin of adultery.
MARRIAGE COVENANT (con't).
Where did the CHURCH go astray concerning the misunderstanding of the marriage covenant? For over forty years, the CHURCH taught that there was only one thing that could break the marriage union, DEATH! (Rom. 7:2-3). One thing about the truth of GOD, it never changes (Heb. 13:8), but the concept of truth by man changes according to their whims, their lusts, and their desires. The more GOD reveals to me, the more I realize how brilliant, deceptive, cunning, shrewd, manipulative, and absolutely evil Satan is. Mr. Armstrong was under the influence of Satan, and he was deceived as we all were, and he started compromising with the truth of the LIVING GOD.
He then with the liberal ministers led the flock into a valley of darkness, and gave them drink from a pool of corruption (Ezek. 34:18-19).The motive of their act is recorded in (Jer. 5:7-8), "They were as fed horses in the morning: every one neighed after his neighbor’s wife." They desired others wives which they could steal through divorce. GOD will hold those ministers responsible, as recorded in (Jer. 50:6), ... " their shepherds have caused them to go astray." H.W.A. courted a divorcee, but he couldn’t have her until he twisted the truth of the LIVING GOD into a lie, and made the Commandments of no effect. We know of the shame, and disgrace, which that adulterous affair brought upon the CHURCH OF GOD. He led the CHURCH into a valley of darkness, and only now is GOD starting to let the glorious light of HIS truth shine through. The truth can appear rather harsh, but not nearly as harsh, and unforgiving, as eternal death. Therefore, trust not men when it comes to your salvation; trust only in GOD'S WORD, (Luke 4:4).
Through Satan's deception, and their lusts, they perverted scripture, namely, (Matt. 5:31-32; I Cor. 7), to justify divorce and remarriage. True, there are circumstances as noted in (I Cor. 7:10-15), which allow a person to obtain a divorce --- but you cannot remarry as decreed in (Rom. 7:1-3). GOD is not the author of confusion (I Cor. 14:33). Project forward to the "World of Tomorrow" as it will be then, so shall we as Saints, live now.
Those who attend Churches that sanction the divorce and remarriage doctrine of H.W.A. are guilty of breaking GOD'S seventh commandment, because they approve of adultery. Read the stinging indictment that the Apostle Paul gave the Church concerning a so-called sophisticated sin of this nature (l Cor. 5:1-13). Can you not judge righteously, will the Kings and Priests in the "KINGDOM OF GOD" approve of, and allow adultery, (Rev. 5:10; 20:4; 21:7-8)?
GOD said HE would raise up someone like Moses. This Prophet will do as Moses did - restore the Commandments. GOD declared that this Prophet would be from among the brethren (he would not be a minister, someone for hire). He will speak as GOD directs him, by the power of GOD'S holy spirit (Zech. 4:6). He will not speak to please men (Deut. 18:15-19).
One final point, and I feel I have the mind of Christ in this. This is addressed to those living in an adulterous situation. With the upheaval, disruption, and turmoil we will soon be entering into, you are permitted to live with your companion, but only as a brother or sister in Christ. There is to be no intimate contact, or any sexual relations of any kind whatsoever, between you. If you cannot abstain from sexual relations, then you must separate. One thing you must ask yourself, are the physical things of this life more important to you than the spiritual promises of GOD. May GOD be with you in your sore trial.
FOURTH
THUNDEROUS REVELATION
THE HOLY FEAST DAYS
GOD has revealed that we did not have a complete understanding of the Feast Days, which depict HIS
plan of Salvation for mankind. A brief review of each Feast Day follows, with a more detailed account of
THE HOLY FEAST DAYS (con’t).
(Unleavened Bread, Pentecost & Trumpets) because those Holy Days, have a direct relationship to fulfillment of end-time prophecy.
PASSOVER (Levi. 23:4-5) NOW A SACRED MEMORIAL (Luke 22:11; I Cor. 5:7: John 6)
(Exodus 12:1-14), The "Passover" sacrificial lamb, which was slain, and its blood placed as a token upon the houses of the children of Israel, was a promise of their physical salvation. The Old Testament symbols were the "lamb" (which depicts Jesus Christ), and the "bitter herbs" that portrayed the bitter bondage of the children of Israel, in sin [ Egypt ], under Pharaoh [ Satan ].
The New Testament "Passover" is observed with the new symbols of the wine and the unleavened bread (John 6:47-58). The unleavened bread, which represents the beaten, ravaged body of our Saviour, … "and with his stripes we are healed " (Isaiah 53:5). The wine symbolizes the blood of our Saviour Jesus Christ, which was poured out, as He died in agony, crucified on the stake. Through His death, is our redemption: and by His blood a covering of our sins. By accepting Jesus Christ as our Saviour, we are forgiven, justified, and reconciled, to GOD THE FATHER. If Jesus Christ had not been our perfect "Passover" sacrifice, and GOD THE FATHER, had not loved us beyond the bounds of human
comprehension (John 3:16), then the need of the following Holy Days would have been of no purpose, and would have ceased to exist. The "Passover" which is now observed as a sacred memorial, was lovingly fulfilled by Jesus Christ. The fulfilled "Passover" is the first step in GOD'S plan of Salvation for all of mankind.
THE FEAST OF UNLEAVENED BREAD (Levi. 23:6-8; Ex. 13:6-7; II Chron. 8:13; Acts 20:6)
The act of our eating the unleavened bread for seven days represents the taking in of Jesus Christ, and Him dwelling within us (John 6:53-58; Phil. 2:5). Christ our Passover, was in the grave during the "Days of Unleavened Bread" for three days and three nights (Matt. 12:40). Precisely three days and three nights later, He was resurrected on the Sabbath (Matt. 28:1-6). From the morrow after the Sabbath, (Levi.23:15), being Sunday, was the time of the wave sheaf offering (Levi. 23:10-12), when Christ was accepted as the First of the Firstfruits, and ascended to His FATHER in Heaven (John 20:14-21). In the near future, during the "Days of Unleavened Bread" at the wave sheaf offering, the Firstfruits, those who have died in Christ, will be resurrected, (Matt. 24:29-31; I Cor. 15:52). And these faithful, who have been saved through His Life, "the Living Bread" (John 6:51; Acts 4:12), will ascend to Heaven, as did our glorious Saviour who overcame, and lead the way. Never again, will anyone be resurrected from the grave, and ascend to the Throne of GOD; this magnificent reward is only for the Firstfruits, those who overcame Satan, and their human nature. When this glorious resurrection happens, that will fulfill the "Days of Unleavened Bread" as a Holy Day, and will be observed as a memorial from that point forward, for all eternity. This is the second step in GOD'S plan of Salvation, which will be fulfilled by the CHURCH OF GOD.
FEAST OF WEEKS / PENTECOST (Levi. 23:10-22; Deut. 16:16; Acts 2:1; Acts 20:16)
Following the fulfillment of the Days of Unleavened Bread the stage is now set for the next glorious Holy Day, "Pentecost" which pictures the marrying of the Church to our Husband, Jesus Christ (Rev. 19:7-9). It also conveys the [ Birth ] of the New Testament CHURCH OF GOD, by and through the holy spirit (Acts 2:1-47). "Pentecost" also portrays the fulfillment of the commission of the CHURCH in the near future (Matt. 16:18), when it becomes the Bride of Christ, and Sons in the FAMILY OF GOD (Rev. 20:6, Dan. 12:10-12). The CHURCH OF GOD will soon fulfill the day of "Pentecost" at the marriage supper of the Lamb, and will be from that point forward a memorial, which is the third step in GOD'S plan of Salvation.
FEAST OF TRUMPETS (Levi. 23:24-25; Num. 29:1; Rev. 11:15)
The CHURCH has been greatly deceived when it came to the understanding and observance of the "Feast Of Trumpets." GOD reveals in (Levi. 23:24), "Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, in the first day of the month, shall ye have a sabbath, a memorial of blowing of trumpets,
FEAST OF TRUMPETS (Levi. 23:24-25; Num. 29:1; Rev. 11:15) (con’t).
an holy convocation." GOD is revealing that the --- trumpets will have already been blown --- during the Days of Unleavened Bread, to warn the World that Christ will soon return, and rule, with a rod of iron (Rev. 19:15). The "Feast Of Trumpets" is a memorial of Trumpets, to honor, and observe, that event as recorded in (Rev. 11:15) " And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, THE KINGDOMS OF THIS WORLD ARE BECOME THE KINGDOMS OF OUR LORD, AND OF HIS CHRIST; AND HE SHALL REIGN FOR EVER AND EVER." Prophecy reveals that this will happen in the near future, when Christ returns to gather His very elect, as recorded in ( I Thess. 4:16-17; Matt. 24:31). Christ does not set His foot upon the Earth, when He returns to gather His very elect, during the Days of Unleavened Bread, as scripture reveals in (Matt. 24:31). He takes the CHURCH, His Bride, to the Throne of GOD, (Rev. 14:1-5) and by the approval of the FATHER, [symbolic of the wave sheaf offering], Christ marries His Bride (Rev. 19:7-9). Scripture reveals, that before Christ returns to this Earth to put down rebellion and end all wars, that He will come as a thief in the night (Matt. 24:22-28; 42-51; Mark 13:32-37), and no one knows when that will be, except the Father (Matt. 24:36). This is in direct contrast to when Christ returns to gather His very elect, which will be with the great sound of trumpets, in power, and great glory, and everyone shall see Him (Matt. 24:30-31). After Christ and His Bride (Rev. 19:14), conquers the rebellious armies, He will then set His foot upon the Mount of Olives (Zech. 14:3-9), and then be crowned King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, and shall reign upon this Earth for a thousand years. Christ and His Bride will then have fulfilled the "Feast Of Trumpets" and it will become the fourth memorial in the plan of Salvation.
DAY OF ATONEMENT (Levi. 23:27-32; Levi. 25:9; Levi. 16; Acts 27:9; Rom. 5:11)
The "Day Of Atonement" pictures the binding of Satan for a thousand years, from this Earth (Rev. 20:1-3). This arch deceiver of the World (Rev. 12:9), will not be allowed to deceive anyone upon this Earth for a thousand years. He will not be allowed to deceive, or inflame the lusts, of those who live during the millennium, but they will have to conquer, and overcome, their own human nature, through the holy spirit. Only those who have overcome Satan, and their human nature [ the firstfruits ], will be Sons in the Kingdom Of GOD. Those remaining who did not, in their physical lifetime, overcome Satan, will be children in the Kingdom Of GOD. "Atonement" is observed as being both austere, and joyful. Austere, because of the Satanic evil that has been upon this Earth. Joyful, because it reflects great love and meaning, realizing we can become "AT-ONE-MENT" with our GOD, when we overcome. "Atonement" is the only Holy Day that is observed as an annual Sabbath, it pictures the seventh millennium, a one thousand year Sabbatical rest from Satan and His demons (Levi. 23:27-32). Christ will establish the Kingdom of GOD upon this Earth for a thousand years, as the next Feast Day in succession represents.
FEAST OF TABERNACLES (Levi. 23:34-44; Deut. 16:16; Zech. 14:18-19; John 7:2)
The "Feast Of Tabernacles" represents the one thousand-year reign of Jesus Christ, as King Of Kings, upon this Earth. It will be a veritable paradise with love, beauty, harmony, knowledge, justice, splendor, accomplishment, prosperity, health, joy and every good pleasure that our FATHER desires to give us (Isaiah 9:6-7; 11:1-9; 35:1-10).
LAST GREAT DAY OF THE FEAST (Levi. 23:39; John 7:37)
The "Last Great Day" represents all of humanity that has ever lived, which did not have a knowledge of the TRUTH, or understand GOD'S Plan Of Salvation (Rev. 20:4-6; Rev. 20:11-15). They will be given their opportunity for Salvation.
SATAN’S CALENDAR – A PLOT TO DESTROY GOD’S HOLY FEAST D