Doug Winnail Says Some LCG Members Are Guilty Of SPIRITUAL MURDER!

 

Are LCG members guilty of spiritual murder?

It's Friday in the United States and time for the weekly Sabbath smack-down on things LCG members are doing wrong. 

Apparently, the motives of LCG members are wrong. 

Some are ensnared by Satan's devices. 

Some have doubts. 

Some are causing divisions.

Some rebel against authority.

Some are tuned into Satan's wavelength.

Some have clever thoughts.

Some have clever ideas.

Some have bad attitudes.

Some complain.

Some criticize.

Some question decisions of church leadership.

Some harbor animosity.

Some are resentful.

Some make hurtful comments.

When LCG members do this they are guilty of SPIRITUAL MURDER!

LCG members are being asked to examine themselves to see if they have the mind of Christ in them.

That's pretty hard for them to do since most of the year the inconvenient dude is never discussed.

It is no wonder so many COG members feel so depressed anymore when they are bombarded with such negativity on a weekly basis.

Here they are after Passover when their slates are wiped clean and they have another opportunity to make a new year more joyful and appreciative of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. That thankfulness and joy are already gone since it is time to hammer the members once again for being such failures.

Who needs that inconvenient New Covenant? LCG sure doesn't seem like they need it.

Anyway, always remember to have a "profitable Sabbath", Doug's God expects that.

Satan’s Subtle Devices: The Days of Unleavened Bread provide us with an opportunity to carefully examine the motives in our own heart (1 Corinthians 11:29–32). Are we truly motivated by God’s Spirit or by the attitudes of this world? Unfortunately, after years in the Church, we can still be snared by Satan’s devices (2 Corinthians 2:11; Ephesians 6:11)—even without realizing what is happening. Satan, who is the accuser of the brethren and the source of doubts, divisions, and rebellion against authority, can cleverly beam thoughts, ideas, and attitudes into our minds (Ephesians 2:2), stirring us to criticize, complain, and question decisions, actions, and guidelines of those around us and over us in the Body of Christ. When we remember that Satan tempted Jesus (Matthew 4:1–10) and then stirred Peter to rebuke Christ (Matthew 16:22–23), we should realize that we are not immune to Satan’s devices. Jesus warned that harboring animosity and resentment against others and making hurtful comments is the equivalent of spiritual murder (Matthew 5:21– 22). At this time of year, we need to ask ourselves if we have the mind of Jesus Christ to esteem others better than ourselves (Philippians 2:1–8)? If we spread doubts and division among others, we have been snared by a device of the “accuser of our brethren” (Revelation 12:10). Let’s strive to be real Philadelphia Christians who show love and promote peace among our brothers and sisters in the Church of God. 

Have a profitable Sabbath and Holy Day, 

Douglas S. Winnail

DW quote from an LCG source, comments mine. 

LCG's Regular Friday Member Beat-down: You need to adjust your focus onto the work instead of social media, the internet, and Banned! Bad LCG brethren!!!!!!

 

It's that time of the week for the weekly Profitable Sabbath beat-down message. As LCG gears down for Passover, Winnail is asking the faithful to "focus on the big picture." What exactly is the "big picture"? 

Is it Jesus? Nothing was mentioned about the dude below.

Considering the fact LCG's version of Passover is 2 nights away, there is no focus upon Jesus. It's more important to condemn LCG members from spending time on the internet reading Banned, watching TV, or doing things that are actually fun with one's own family. 

Followers of Jesus don't let the cares of the world "choke the truth", they never have. They can enjoy life and be totally at peace with their standing with God instead of fretting about it day in and day out, especially at this time of year, nor do Christians walking with Jesus need to fret over “because the days are evil” or whether or not one is "qualifying " to become a god in the kingdom to come.

Adjusting Your Focus: Prior to the Passover and during the Days of Unleavened Bread is a good time to evaluate how we spend our time and where we focus our energies and concerns. Jesus admonished us to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). Are your thoughts focused on this big picture—of doing the Work and building the character necessary to function in the Family of God? The Apostle Paul advised Christians to “walk circumspectly” (live purposely) and to make the most of our time and opportunities “because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15–16). Paul also instructed Christians to treat each other with respect and to avoid interpersonal bickering and arguments over doctrinal issues that shift our focus away from the big picture (Romans 12:9–12; 14:20; 1 Corinthians 1:10). Jesus warned that “the cares of this world” can choke the Truth and cause us to be unfruitful (Matthew 13:22). In light of these Scriptures, we need to periodically evaluate how we use our time, what we watch on TV, what we read, how much time we spend on the Internet, and what we post on social media. If we really want to focus our minds on what is true, noble, just, and pure (Philippians 4:8), let’s use the Holy Days to focus on the big picture.

Have a profitable Sabbath and Holy Day season, 

Douglas S. Winnail

LCG Prepares To Sacrifice Jesus Again At The Local Masonic Lodge and/or School Gym

It is that time of year when the Churches of God focuses upon Passover. It is the one time of year that the focus is supposed to be entirely on the guy they call Christ or Jesus if they want to look cool to their members. The rest of the year, not so much.  

They look forward to the ritual symbolic killing of Jesus once again. Microphones will be brought forward so that when the matzo wafers are broken the sound of the breaking of the bread is amplified so that members sitting in the congregation are filled with guilt and remorse for their inability to remain sinless since the previous Passover.

Due to the previous sins in their lives since the last Passover, they have to kill Jesus all over again on the night of the COG version of the Passover. The problem is, as soon as they leave that gym or Masonic Lodge, Jesus seems to remain there for the rest of the year. 

The meaning of his life, the significance of the resurrection, which is way more mysterious and meaningful than the crucifixion, barely gets a peep the rest of the year. COG leaders shy away from resurrection stories because they don't want to seem too Protestant and Easterish. Justification is rarely discussed as it is more important to focus on following rules than being justified. Grace and unmerited pardon are not looked upon too freely either. In fact, as the year progresses, the church will, as usual, be more graceless than ever. The rules and new rules will be enforced as Jesus Christ gets shoved in the corner again where he will have to wait till Passover next year.

Prepare for the Spring Holy Days: In just a few weeks, we will be observing the Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread. These annual Festivals are a memorial of the great sacrifice that Jesus Christ made for our sins and the sins of the world. They are also a reminder that we need to recognize and eliminate sin and inappropriate thoughts and actions from our lives so we can become more like our Father and elder brother Jesus Christ. For the Passover to be meaningful and profitable—and not just routine—we need to do our part to prepare for this important step in God’s Plan of Salvation. To put the Passover in proper perspective, it will be helpful to review the gospel accounts of the events that led up to the Passover, the crucifixion, and the resurrection. Placing our own period of self-examination within this biblical context can help us appreciate the tremendous significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. The Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread provide us with an annual opportunity to examine every aspect of our lives in the light of God’s instructions found in the Scriptures. Spending time every day in prayerful study and reflection, as we go through this Holy Day period, will help us grow to be more like our Savior Jesus Christ.
Have a profitable Sabbath, Douglas S. Winnail

LCG: Are you thankful for the "precious Truths" we give you?

Once more, its close to the COG version of the Sabbath, and the Living Church of God has sent out its weekly announcements and Sabbath "love bomb" to its members telling them that they are failing once again to remain true to the path and accept everything the leadership says as 100% "precious truth." Apparently, some are falling short and allowing Satan to blind their eyes to the "incredible privilege" they have to be "called out of darkness" and into the glorious light of the Living Church of God. Can LCG members ever be praised and thanked for a job well done, with no "but's or however's" attached? Is this too much to ask? Once a year, at least? That is just one time out of 52 weeks. Just once?

Be Thankful for the Truth: The Sabbath is a good time to reflect on an important question: Are you thankful for the Truth? It is easy to take the Truth of God for granted if you are a longtime member or if you have grown up in the Church. Yet, Jesus emphasized that people cannot come to a real understanding of the Truth unless they are called and their minds have been opened to see the big picture (John 6:44, 65). The capacity to understand the plan of God, the purpose of life, and the true way of life is a gift that God is making available to only a few people at this time (1 Corinthians 1:26–27). These precious Truths are a mystery to most people (1 Corinthians 2:7–8) because Satan—the god of this age—has blinded their eyes (2 Corinthians 4:3–4). Jesus said that it is an incredible privilege to be given an understanding of the Truth (Matthew 13:10–17). The Apostle Paul said that being called out of darkness into the light of the Truth is something to be extremely thankful for. He also said that those who were unthankful and let go of or rejected the Truth of God will reap the penalty of their error which is due (Romans 1:18–32). Let’s never forget to be thankful for the opportunity to understand the Truth of God that “endures to all generations.” 

 

Have a profitable Sabbath, 

 

Douglas S. Winnail

It is always interesting that COG leaders place so much emphasis upon God calling people into the church (a COG, of course) and yet those who feel called into Christianity in other Christian churches have fake calls. God calling people into the COG is always right, God actively calling people to be real Christians who might attend other churches are always fake. The logic doesn't compute.

You never hear COG ministers quote these scriptures much as the focus is just on believing, not following all the commands of COG leaders and the endless stack of laws they dish out. Followers aren't "called to "believe", they are "called to "obey".

Just believe...that can't be right!

"The COG at its core is not motivated to preach to the world out of compassion for the world, but only to be a witness against the world."

 

Doug Winnail's weekly "Happy Sabbath" comment:

The Church of God Today: Jesus said, “I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). Jesus’ statement indicates that His Church would continue to exist down through the ages. The New Testament Church began on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and is referred to numerous times in the New Testament as the “Church of God” (1 Corinthians 1:2; 10:32; 11:22; 15:9; Galatians 1:13). Some think the “work” of the Church of God ended with the death of Mr. Herbert Armstrong. However, Jesus commissioned His disciples to “go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15), and He promised, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). The “work” of God’s Church continues today, preaching the Gospel of the coming Kingdom of God, warning the Israelite nations and the nations of the world about the consequences of turning away from God, and preparing people to rule with Jesus Christ in the coming Kingdom. That message is delivered powerfully using the modern means of television, Internet, print media, and Tomorrow’s World presentations. The commission that Jesus gave to His disciples continues through ever more powerful doors that God is opening to His Church today—and you are part of that effort!

Have a profitable Sabbath,
Douglas S. Winnail

 

Comments from an LCG source:

Doug Winnail states the typical, "The “work” of God’s Church continues today, preaching the Gospel of the coming Kingdom of God, warning the Israelite nations and the nations of the world about the consequences of turning away from God..."

To what end is this preaching to the world done, according to LCG? In a member letter from Dec. 16, 2020 Gerald Weston states, "At the same time, prophecy shows that the Gospel of the Kingdom of God will be preached in all the world, not to convert the world, but as a witness. Notice this passage in what is called the Olivet Prophecy as found in Matthew 24."

Never did Jesus say that his followers are not to be motivated to convert the world. Weston added that. I submit that of the core tenants of the COG movement is a callous view of one's neighbor. The COG at its core is not motivated to preach to the world out of compassion for the world, but only to be a witness against the world. When Winnail says that the church's job is to preach for the purpose of warning, what he means is that the purpose is not to convert, just as Weston confirms. This is the reason why people in the world sense that the COG preachers are cold and condescending. People sense that there is no real Christian compassion.

Gerald Weston's Member/Coworker Letter, December 16, 2020

Comments here are blog owners, not the LCG source

Dear Brethren and Co-workers with Christ,

A neighbor of mine is planning to light up his fire pit and invite the neighbors to come over and burn their 2020 calendars on New Year’s Eve. My wife and I do not celebrate this occasion, as God has a very different calendar with different days of celebration. But, most of you are no doubt happy this Roman calendar year is rapidly coming to an end. The question now is, What are we to expect in the year to come? Will it be a reprieve or another year with similar drama? Bible prophecy indicates that the world will experience a crisis at the end of the age, and there are multiple signs that we are entering just such a time. Going forward we can expect many things will go wrong. There are going to be some major shocks and surprises in our very near future.

Notice that Weston starts right off spouting a callous comment about his neighbor. Is it any wonder COG members also act the same way? 

At the same time, prophecy shows that the Gospel of the Kingdom of God will be preached in all the world, not to convert the world, but as a witness. Notice this passage in what is called the Olivet Prophecy as found in Matthew 24.

COG leaders love to add "not convert the world" as their easy out in not truly believing the message they claim to be proclaiming. It's not their responsibility if no one responds as long as they pound the airwaves and mailboxes with COG propaganda, then they have done their job, at least in their callous eyes. 

Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come (Matthew 24:11-14).  

Every word of this passage needs to be considered. Notice that there will be many false prophets at the end. Today, we have an abundance of “fake news” found on all sides of the political and social spectrums, followed by hordes of devotees to self-proclaimed social media gurus. Of course, false leaders of professing Christianity are clearly warned against in verses 4 and 5 of this same chapter.

Weston fails to mention the abundance of fake news in the COG movement in this day and age. Never has the church been filled with so many false prophets uttering the most asinine things imaginable. Never has the "love" of COG groups and members been at such a low. Groups despise other groups. They call each other Laodicean. They seek to actively steal members from other groups along with tier money. On and on the list can go.

Notice too that lawlessness will abound. We see more than enough of that, but dear friends, hold onto your hats as anarchy will no doubt be on our plate for the coming year and a second American civil war is not out of the question. Jesus also shows us in this passage that His servants must endure to the end. The year 2020 required endurance, but we must expect even more difficult times to come. But the focal point of the passage is that “this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come” (verse 14).

Never one to let a good tragedy or public disturbance go to waste, Weston breathlessly hints at "second civil war" hitting the land. Keep people scared and in fear, that is the COG way.  Of course, any difficult time that is present is always a sure sign of the end and will lead to persecution of the church.

This Gospel of the Kingdom is not just a message about the person of Christ, but the message Christ Himself proclaimed for three-and-a-half years prior to His crucifixion. We emphasize this often, but I wonder how many “get it”? Yes, it includes the way into the Kingdom by Christ’s shed blood, but even that is not always fully understood. As the Apostle Paul shows us, “For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life” (Romans 5:10). Yes, we are saved from death by His life, not His death! We have been at variance with God, not subject to His law (Romans 8:7-8), and need the blood of Christ to cleanse us of our past sins and to reconcile us, to bring us into a right relationship with God. But we also need Christ living in us by the power of the Holy Spirit. Traditional Christianity rarely makes this distinction, but the Scriptures are clear about it. Our former Presiding Evangelist, the late Dr. Roderick C. Meredith, often quoted Galatians 2:20 as the best one-verse definition of Christianity: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (KJV). We are crucified with Christ at baptism, but Christ must then form His character and way of life in us.

Meredith and Weston (and other COG leaders) love to proclaim, "But we also need Christ living in us by the power of the Holy Spirit. Traditional Christianity rarely makes this distinction, but the Scriptures are clear about it." Statements like this prove how much these guys do not know about Christians around them. This is a traditional belief in Christianity. It is not something unique to Herbert and crew, nor is it anything they have restored, redeemed, or corrected.

While watching my recent Tomorrow’s World telecast, “Hope in Tough Times,” I realized that I spent a lot of time on that program discussing the bad things and not enough time on the good things found in the Holy Days that Jesus, His apostles, and first-century Christianity kept. More details were needed. The Gospel (good news) of the Kingdom of God means Jesus Christ will come back to rule this troubled planet and He will appoint His servants to be the rulers under Him in His millennial reign (Zechariah 14:9; Ezekiel 37:24-25; Luke 19:16-19; Revelation 20:4). These are those who have shown in this life total loyalty to Him. They are those who have developed His character of genuine care for the well-being of others. It means an end to warfare and to rampant crime where the criminal is let off and the victim suffers. It means the end of rape, murder, and robbery. And, thank God, it means the end of political campaigns filled with lies, hypocrisy, and broken promises.

Most of the COG groups today could not exist without emphasizing the bad things in the world around them. They need misery, pain, and trauma around them to make themselves look prophetic and champions of a kingdom to come. Instead of acting like a real follower of Christ and caring for those around them in the world and sharing a foretaste of that love they claim the Kingdom of God will have, they isolate themselves and cower in their office headquarters and their pill-pushing storefronts.

The long tradition of COG member/co-worker letters is one of profound horror at how evil the world is and a desperate plea for money. God cannot do anything without some cash on hand. 

Weston carries on that tradition:

Dear Brethren and Co-workers, these letters are sent to encourage you, to update you on the Work of Tomorrow’s World and the Living Church of God, and to thank you for the support you have given. Your part in this Work of the living Jesus Christ, whether through your prayers or your financial generosity, is immensely appreciated. Most of the financial support we receive might be classified as modest or average, but that is not the whole picture. Jesus gives us an important perspective:

Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood” (Mark 12:41-44).

COG leaders have never, NEVER, had any concern about widows and the small amount of money they could give. They gleefully took it and most of the time demanded it by claiming tithing is a requirement for salvation. Heck, Rod Meredith cared so much for them that he took 3rd tithe and remodeled his home in Pasadena with it! Look at Pack and Flurry and how they demand money from their followers. It is disgusting what they all do.

It is human to thank those who give large gifts, as it takes many small donations to equal a large one. However, we must learn to see as God sees and not overlook the widow’s mites. That is why I do not send a special “thank you” letter to individuals for exceptionally large donations. They are, of course, greatly appreciated, and if this applies to you, thank you! But God, it appears, is equally pleased, if not more, with the widow’s mite.

LCG leaders have always slobbered over large money donors. That is a well-established fact in the Living Church of God. However, it is not unique to them. They learned it from the mother church and the actions of leaders in Pasadena.

I hope this honesty will not offend anyone, but it is something I feel very deeply. I want to express appreciation to all of you equally and let God evaluate gifts and the hearts that give them. We must not be respecters of persons. So whether you gave a lot this past year, or gave a small amount out of your poverty, thank you, thank you, thank you! May the God of creation who sees all bless each one of you richly!

No matter what comes our way in 2021, we look to the encouraging prophecies of what is beyond the difficult times. We look to the time when nations “shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore” (Isaiah 2:4), and when they “shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain, for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea” (Isaiah 11:9). Dear Brethren and Co-workers, please be encouraged by reading all of Isaiah 35, which beautifully describes how God will heal the earth and the lives of those suffering physical challenges such as blindness and deafness.

Why wait for some future moment that is always beyond reach when you have the opportunity TODAY to make a difference in the lives of those suffering physical challenges, blindness, and deafness? Imagine how good it would feel to let these people experience a foretaste of that kingdom you so desperately long for. Imagine how much better the world would be around you and it would help take the focus off all the negative things.

Alas, how I forget, the good news of things to come is ONLY for good COG members who are the ONLY people of God in the world today.

Thank you again for your loyal support with your prayers, tithes, and offerings this past year. There is good news in the future for the people of God. Let us not faint in this day of adversity (Proverbs 24:10) and let us do what we are able while we have time.

Sincerely, in Christ’s service, 

Gerald E. Weston

Soon for me, but not for thee.

 

 

 

LCG: If You Are A Proper Team Player You Will "...deal with people gently, respectfully, and patiently, and are willing to listen..." Just Like We, The Leadership, Do With You

It looks like LCG members are not all "team players", especially when they criticize and say negative things about LCG leaders. 

LCG members need to remember that the ministry can treat you like crap but don't you dare criticize them! 

A good team player will forgive LCG ministers when they say or do something that hurts you. 

After all, if the ministry says something it is as if God is speaking.

Good team players will always promote harmony like the ministry does, especially when they deal gently, respectfully, and patiently with people. 

LCG leaders and ministers have always done this, right?

Skills that Promote Teamwork: Members of successful teams (families, congregations, business groups, and athletic teams) develop the necessary skills to work together smoothly to accomplish goals. These skills can be identified and learned. As Christians, we must develop the same skills—and many are clearly biblical. Effective team players avoid saying or doing things that offend others (Matthew 18:7; 1 Corinthians 10:32). Team players learn to forgive and overlook slights or hurtful comments because they have learned the value of not being easily offended (Proverbs 10:12). Effective team players do not sit in judgment of others—accusing, criticizing, spreading their discontent, or saying or assuming negative things about others on the team. Instead, they make sure their own lives are in order (Matthew 7:1–5; James 4:11). Team players are peacemakers (Matthew 5:9) who can promote harmony and work smoothly with others (James 3:17–18). They deal with people gently, respectfully, and patiently, and are willing to listen  ithout trying to justify their own position (James 1:19). Effective team players appreciate that a team is made up of individuals with different talents and abilities who can make unique contributions to the team (1 Corinthians 12:12). They know the main priority is to work together smoothly to achieve a goal while showing love to one another (Ephesians 4:16). In summary, good team players have learned how to love their neighbors. Let’s all strive to develop these important skills so we can do God’s Work effectively! 

 

Have a profitable Sabbath,
Douglas S. Winnail
Editor

Why Are LCG Members Being Distracted And Sidetracked From Their Spiritual Goals?

Ok people! Stop being distracted and get back on track and keep the money flowing in so we can complete the gospel message and prepare you for your future role as a king and priest ruling over people in the world to come. When you get distracted by temptations of the world and spend money on those temptations you are slowing down our ability to get the gospel out.

Redeeming the Time: 

The Apostle Paul urged brethren in Ephesus to live purposefully and to make the most of every opportunity to grow and become more like Jesus Christ “because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15–18). Ephesus was a bustling port city that was full of temptations to distract and disorient individuals who were striving to live a Christian life. Jesus also warned against being sidetracked from our spiritual goals by getting caught up in the “cares of this world”—the physical issues that can dominate our daily lives (Matthew 13:22). These warnings and admonitions are still important today! As our secular, materialistic, and increasingly anti-God society hurtles towards the climax of this age, we need to stay focused on the main goal of doing God’s Work and developing the knowledge, wisdom, and godly character that will be required to reign with Jesus Christ in the coming Kingdom of God. Let’s make the most of our time to prepare for this exciting future!

Have a profitable Sabbath,

Douglas S. Winnail

Editor

Living Church of God: This Is Serious Business In These Last Days! Doctrine Is Our Most Important Matter And Many Of You Are Off Track!

The Importance of Doctrine: 

The Apostle Paul commended Christians in Rome because they “obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine [teaching] which was delivered [to] you” (Romans 6:17, KJV). He also urged Timothy, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine…. for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Timothy 4:16). Paul also warned repeatedly, “in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy…” (1 Timothy 4:1–3). Paul also warned that as the end of the age approaches, one-time believers “will not endure sound doctrine,” but will “have itching ears” and follow various teachers—turning theirs away from the truth to fables and lies (2 Timothy 4:3–4; 1 Timothy 4:1–2). In order to avoid being deceived and misled, we need to study the Scriptures carefully so that we know what the Bible teaches as doctrine (see the Bereans in Acts 17:10–12), and exercise spiritual discernment that comes from nourishing and being led by the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 1:6–7; Romans 8:14). We also need to remember Jesus’ warning that not everyone who thinks he or she is on the right track, actually is (Matthew 7:21–23). This is serious business, especially in these last days.

Have a profitable Sabbath,

Douglas S. Winnail

Jesus is still missing. Can someone please find him? Proper church doctrine will save you, which is much, much more important than that inconvenient dude whom we seldom ever mention, and when we do it is in passing him by for weightier matters.

Living Church of God: Once Again Its About Sex

It's been a few weeks, days, hours since anyone at Living Church of God talked about sex, and to make up for that deficiency, Doug Winnail is languishing over sexual perversions. 

Sobering Signs of the Times: 

 

The Old Testament contains numerous accounts of events that were recorded for our admonition today (1 Corinthians 10:1–11). Jesus foretold the last days would be like “the days of Noah” when the earth was filled with violence, wickedness, and human beings had totally corrupted themselves (Genesis 6:5–13). God destroyed this evil society with a great flood, but He preserved righteous Noah and his family. About 400 years later, God sent two angels to warn Lot and his family that Sodom and Gomorrah would be destroyed for the wickedness that permeated these prosperous cities. Sexual perversions were among the reasons given in the Bible for their destruction (Genesis 18:20; 19:4–7; 1 Corinthians 6:9–10)—but there were also other sins (Ezekiel 16:49–50). Yet, in spite of the warning, Lot and his family were reluctant to leave the luxuries of their cities, and this cost his wife her life (Genesis 19:26). Today, our world is going the way of Sodom again—promoting homosexuality, same-sex marriage, and other behaviors that the Bible condemns. This is why the Apostle Paul urged Christians to “come out” of this world and its perverted ways (2 Corinthians 6:17–18)—because God’s judgment on our modern sinful societies is coming! We need to wake up and recognize the prophetic significance of what is happening around us—and earnestly pray “Thy Kingdom come.” 

 

Have a profitable Sabbath, 

Douglas S. Winnail

This reminded me how when Rod Meredith, Winnail, and others made their decision to leave the luxuries of the Worldwide Church of God, they kept turning back at what they had and made sure that they had the same luxuries to move over into. These guys were also reluctant to leave on their own and make a bold stand for something they thought they believed in, regardless of a continuance of a salary or not. Plus, given the rampant sexual immorality that pervades/pervaded the Charlotte HQ of LCG, I do not think they are in any position to be criticizing others. I am not even going to get into the stories of the Meredith boys and others at LCG HQ and their escapades. 

Some day the COG will learn to clean their own unholy sepulchers before they condemn others.

LCG: Things Doug Winnail Forgets

 

From an LCG source:

Of note is Winnail's statement, "Jesus’ message did not focus on Himself or His birth but on the coming Kingdom of God"

He maybe forgot:

• John 14:6  Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.

• Acts 16:31  They said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

• Acts 4:10-12  be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, in him does this man stand here before you whole.  11  He is ‘the stone which was regarded as worthless by you, the builders, which has become the head of the corner.’  12  There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, by which we must be saved!”

• John 10:7-9  Jesus therefore said to them again, “Most certainly, I tell you, I am the sheep’s door.  8  All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep didn’t listen to them.  9  I am the door. If anyone enters in by me, he will be saved, and will go in and go out, and will find pasture.

What to Remember: As the world celebrates the December holidays—that find their roots in the ancient Roman Saturnalia with its feasting, drinking, gift-giving, and partying that culminate on the winter solstice to commemorate the rebirth of the sun around December 25—it is good to remember that Jesus Christ was not born on that day, but probably in the fall of the year 4BC around the time of the Feast of Trumpets. Jesus’ message did not focus on Himself or His birth but on the coming Kingdom of God (Mark 1:14–15; Matthew 6:33) and a way of life based on His laws (John 14:15). It will be His government that will bring peace and justice to this troubled world (Isaiah 9:6–7) as He rules from Jerusalem with His saints (Revelation 5:10; 11:15–18; Isaiah 2:2– 4). The biblical Holy Days are designed to keep us mindful of God’s Great Plan of Salvation for all mankind (Leviticus 23). The mission of God’s Church is to proclaim the knowledge of that plan to all the world before He returns (Matthew 24:14). The time is coming when the pagan-based revelries of December will give way to the true Holy Days of God and what they picture for all mankind and for all time. 

Have a profitable Sabbath, 

Douglas S. Winnail

LCG: STOP questioning, criticizing, disrespecting, and ignoring LCG leaders! You must RESPECT Us!

 

Here we go again. Sigh......  LCG members are doing something wrong AGAIN! Can they ever do ANYTHING to please the leadership of the LCG? Can they ever be praised and be told, "job well done, keep up the good work!" without constantly being raked over the coals for some supposed infraction that the leadership always perceives is against them? It is rather sad to be living a life where everyone is suspect and out to get you all the time. Real men of God never worry about such trite things. The devil truly is the god of the COG, it is more powerful than the God they claim to follow. 

Age of Skeptics: 

 

The Apostle Peter warned that in the last days, “scoffers will come” who will ridicule biblical ideas such as Jesus’ promise to return (2 Peter 3:3–4). Today, skeptics also claim that God does not exist and that the Bible is just a collection of myths and legends. These ideas have permeated our society and fostered attitudes of disrespect for authority figures such as parents, teachers, government officials, policemen, and even religious leaders. We need to be careful that these critical attitudes do not spill over into the Church of God and affect our views toward the leaders and members of the body of Christ. Peter also warned that false teachers would come who “despise authority” and “speak evil” of those in authority, because they are self-willed and presumptuous and determined to do their own thing (2 Peter 2:1, 10–12). The Apostle Paul urged Christians to respect authority and be subject to governments because God is the Author of structure and organization (Romans 13:1–2). Questioning, criticizing, disrespecting, and ignoring authority only leads to chaos and confusion—and God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). We need to be aware of the fruits that have emerged in the age of skeptics and avoid getting caught up in these ideas and attitudes. 

 

Have a profitable Sabbath, 

Douglas S. Winnail

UPDATED: LCG: Claims again that they have the "sure word of prophecy" They are able to understand world events, unlike other COG's.

 

The world is still spiraling out of control for those boys in Charlotte, as it has been for many of them for the last 6 -7 decades. Everywhere around them, there is moral decay.  But not in their church. Trump is out, sex, COVID reigns, sex, women rule over nations, sex, there are constant threats of war, sex, famine, sex, disease, sex, pestilence, sex, pot smokers in Colorado and Oregon, sex, and of course there are those necessary but pesky gays (which if they weren't around we would have nothing to talk about).

Oh, and Bobus Thiel would disagree with Winnail's claim that LCG has the "sure word of prophecy". There is no other man on earth that has the "sure word" than Bobus himself. Bobus claims that NONE of the COG's will know when it is time to flee as they have their prophecy predictions all wrong. 

Only the Great One, he who is named Bobus, knows the "sure word".

Watch World News! 

Jesus told His disciples to watch for the fulfillment of Bible prophecies indicating that the end of the age and His second coming are near (Matthew 24:42–44; 25:13). However, these same prophecies reveal that many will be surprised by dramatic events that erupt to mark the arrival of the last days, because most people do not understand the prophetic significance of world events that are making news today. This is why God has given His Church a “more sure word of prophecy” so it can function as a watchman to proclaim the real significance of events we see in the news today (2 Peter 1:19–20, KJV). The moral decay and declining influence of the Israelite nations (Leviticus 26:14–19; Deuteronomy 32:29), the growing fears of war, and the eruption of pandemics and the spread of natural disasters (Matthew 24:1–8), an alliance of nations in the Middle East and North Africa (Daniel 11:40), and the emergence of a military power in Europe with links to the Roman Empire promoted by an ecumenical-minded papacy (Revelation 17:1–5, 12–13; Isaiah 47:8)—all point to end-time events outlined in Bible prophecies. As we see these prophecies coming alive today, we need to draw closer to God and continue to watch world events so we are not caught by surprise when Jesus Christ returns to this earth (1 Thessalonians 5:1–6).

Have a profitable Sabbath, 

Douglas S. Winnail

Bobus Thiel still is totally ticked off that the Living Church of God (i.e. Rod Meredith) refused to listen to his demands that they change their beliefs to suit his deluded thinking. How dare they ignore God's doubly blessed and self-annointed How dare they!

On the blog Bobus runs he has this comment about the Living Church of God and its refusal to follow his demands.

LCG continues to cling to a position its top evangelist told me was wrong--and that has to do with the European Beast power who rises up and destroys the USA in Daniel 11:39. Instead, the above, consistent with LCG's flawed official statement of beliefs which Dr. Meredith promised me with Richard Ames and Douglas Winnail as witnesses, in December 2011 would be corrected by the end of January 2012, still has the start of the Beast-led war and the Great Tribulation with Daniel 11:40. Unless LCG changes, it will not know when the Great Tribulation will begin until it is too late.

Considering every single COG leader out there has failed in their prophetic utterances, why should we believe another self-appointed false prophet? 

 

Living Church of God: LCG Members Need Be Like David And Stop Arguing With Scriptures And Repent!

Here we go again. Week after week, one admonition after another about something that LCG members are doing wrong. Can they ever receive an uplifting message from church leadership that compliments them and says they are doing something right? Imagine words of grace for at least one week instead of constant condemnation.

As usual, the emphasis is on the law. apparently, members are "arguing with scriptures" to deliberately not do what God church leadership expects of them. It's always something they need to be doing. They are constantly being tested and examined by an angry god. Imagine just resting and truly having a Sabbath rest. Christ says that is what he brings to the table.

A Matter of Heart: The Bible states that God looks on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7) and that David was chosen to be king because God saw that David was “a man after My own heart” (Acts 13:22). But what exactly did God see in David’s heart? God saw that David was a person “who will do all My will” (Acts 13:22). God saw that David was teachable and that he “loved” God’s law and meditated on it daily so he could learn God’s mind and gain God’s perspective (Psalm 119:97,105). David did not argue with the Scriptures or look for ways to get around instructions that God clearly revealed in His word (Psalm 119:16, 18, 27). David praised God with his whole heart (Psalm 119:1–2) and he repented wholeheartedly when he realized that he was wrong (Psalm 51). This is why David will reign as king over the children of Israel in the Kingdom of God (Ezekiel 34:23). We need to remember that God is examining and testing our hearts (Psalm 7:9). If our thoughts, words, and actions reflect what God is looking for, we will be given the opportunity to reign with Jesus Christ and with David in the coming Kingdom (Matthew 19:28–29; Revelation 5:10). The Bible reveals that our reward will be based on what is in our heart!

Have a profitable Sabbath,

Douglas S. Winnail

Doug Winnail on the dangers of rebellion and not following wise decisions of LCG ministers

 

Below is the letter Doug Winnail sent to the ministry of LCG in the wake of Sheldon Monson and Jason Fritts's departure. It is pretty hypocritical of Doug Winnail to be condemning Monson and Fritts on their recent departure considering the fact that he and Rod Meredith did the exact same things when they left the mother church and started Global Church of God and then in a rebellious fit of rage started Living Church of God.

One thing for sure about the current state of affairs in the Church of God movement is that it is the best soap opera ever created.

Received from an LCG source this morning.

To: All Ministers
Greetings Fellow Elders,

The recent departure of two ministers here in the USA with several other elders and those who have followed them has generated numerous posts on social media that contain inaccurate assertions and some wildly distorted accounts of what led to this departure. Some posts claim that these two men were treated unfairly, and even harshly, that they were yelled at in an attempt to intimidate and humiliate them and then summarily fired after this rigorous ordeal by their unfeeling superiors. I want to provide you with some firsthand background information so that you can address any questions that you may encounter. While this departure may not be affecting your congregation (it is mainly affecting a few small pockets around the United States where these men have pastored or had friends or people they worked with at camp—including young people, there are important lessons for all of us to learn from this situation. 

LCG has never "learned" any important lessons over the last 25+ years. They keep repeating the same mistakes and claiming martyrdom when caught. 

The seeds of this departure are exactly like the seeds Meredith and others planted months before they apostatized from the Worldwide Church of God in a fit of self-righteous rage because they had a better way of doing things. 

The seeds of this departure go back some time, as many can attest, but began to emerge openly in comments made by these ministers in sermons, Bible Studies and personal comments at the Teen Camp in Texas this summer. Several ministers and other adults sensed these men were divisive and critical of the leadership of the Church. One of these ministers also mentioned in some of his congregations that he might be fired for his actions. 

 

After camp, we asked these two ministers to come to Charlotte to discuss their ideas (that we are dishonoring God by wearing a mask at services and that we are sinning if we don’t sing at services). Several of us here then spent about 4 ½ hours with these men, talking to them and listening to their ideas. At one point, one person here did raise his voice for 5-10 seconds and then apologized. He did not appreciate these men openly disagreeing with Church decisions and using the forum of a youth summer camp to do so where his children were in attendance. He was not the only incensed parent who felt this was totally inappropriate and did not appreciate it. He was also concerned about how these ideas were affecting some people in congregations that he has pastored. As we listened, we also let these men know that we did not agree with their ideas. They were informed that we would bring their ideas before the Council of Elders. It was not our intention to fire them when we invited them to Charlotte to talk. 

It is interesting to read how they were concerned about how members of congregations were affected by Monson and Fritts's stances. They were not concerned when they were actively seeking to steal members and money from the Worldwide Church of God as they plotted and schemed with Don Davis to set up the Global Church of God. They were not concerned when they stabbed Raymond McNair in the back and took all of Global's money and most of its members to start the Living Church of God. They left a trail of broken lives in the wake of each of these decisions and now they are concerned about how people have been affected? 

Later that week, one of the ministers joined a special online meeting of the Council of Elders that lasted for more than four hours. We also asked him to submit a paper providing the scriptural basis for his ideas. This was the first time the Council had seen this information. Our standard approach has been for new ideas to be submitted to and discussed by the Council before these ideas were preached to congregations. However, this had not occurred, even though these men had been promoting these ideas for some time. No one on the Council agreed with their ideas. There was no yelling or screaming. There was no intimidation. However, a number of men spoke frankly, yet respectfully, indicating they did not agree with what they were hearing from this minister. We later sent out papers countering these ideas.

When the Worldwide Church of God spoke with Meredith and many other ministers that were joining Meredith in his rebellion they were asked if they would support the decisions and teachings of the church, none of them agreed to and felt they should separate themselves and go their own way. They saw nothing wrong with this and yet they see Monson and Fritts as being in a state of rebellion. 

Meredith and the other ministers that followed him never grasped the fact that their decision and rebellion was going to have a negative impact upon the WCG. And if they did, they certainly did not care! 

The next day, Mr. Weston and I spoke with each of these men on the telephone. When they were asked if they could support the decisions and teaching of the Church, they both indicated they could not. In fact, one of the ministers commented that since we appeared to be on separate pages, we should just go our separate ways. As a result, they were relieved from their roles as ministers in the LCG. That decision was made when they each stated that they could not support the decisions and teachings of the Church. The decision was also based on the verified fact that for some time these men were making numerous negative and divisive comments about leaders of the Church, and they had been in open disagreement with decisions made by church leaders. One man was offered time to think it over, but he said his mind was made up and would not be changed by postponing a decision. Neither man appeared to grasp the seriousness of the negative comments they had been making or the impact of those comments on others and how their ideas were dividing the Church. Since these conversations, they have departed and started their own organization. One minister has been marked for causing division (Romans 16:17-18) since he has been the leader, the other minister has been made a former member. Both men and their followers should be avoided. In our view, this has been a very sad situation. 

Church government has always been used as a weapon to keep members and ministers under control. Of course, that government goes out the window when men set themselves up as saviors of the truth once delivered and do what they want to do. Once they set up their fiefdoms, woe be to anyone who dares to cross their self-righteous paths and question them!  Those rebellious people are in direct rebellion against the very government of God! They are Korah's! They were just like Ananias and Sapphira!

There are a number of lessons that we can learn from all of this. The Scriptures reveal that God has placed authority in His Church. Moses was instructed to appoint leaders in Israel to judge the people (Exodus 18:24-26). Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12:18 that God places us in the body as it pleases Him and that Jesus Christ established different roles and offices in the Church for doing His work (Ephesians 4:11-12). The Bible also records that there are serious consequences if those offices and that authority are not respected (see the example of Korah and his rebellion along with 250 leaders in Numbers 16 and Aaron’s and Miriam’s mistake in speaking against Moses in Numbers 12). While Moses was not perfect, the consequences of speaking against the authority of his office were serious and dramatic—as a lesson to others. We see a similar situation in the actions of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11). The men leading this current departure (and now some of their followers ) have been making negative comments about church decisions and leaders for some time—in spite of these biblical examples. 

Winnail admits that people who are in rebellion against the government of God (i.s church leadership) are not pleasing God when they do so. Yet, it was pleasing to their god when they rebelled against the mother church and formed TWO separate COG splinter groups. No rebellion there! No sirree!  

While these departing ministers are emphasizing the importance of having faith and trust in God’s promises for protection from disease (Exodus 15:25) and healing from sickness (James 5:14-16), we also need to put our faith and trust in other very clear instructions we find in the Scriptures. The biblical instructions for resolving controversies in the Church are found in Deuteronomy 17:8-11. When controversies arise, the issue is to be taken to the priests and Levites to be judged, and when a decision is made, it is to be followed. However, if a person acts presumptuously and ignores the decision made by the elders, there were serious consequences that were witnessed by the entire nation—as a lesson that this was not pleasing to God. 

Rod Meredith and the men who followed him into two different groups caused confusion when they rejected counsel.  

We see this biblical process for resolving controversies in action in Acts 15 when the question of circumcision of Gentiles was addressed. The issue was brought to the elders in Jerusalem, and a decision was made and promulgated to other congregations so there would be a unified policy. However, it appears that not everyone agreed with this decision as other individuals continued to create dissension by pointing back to the OT command for circumcision (Genesis 17:9-14; Galatians 1:6-7; 5:1-6). Yet, we read in Matthew 16:18-19 that God has given His Church and its leaders the authority to make decisions about the application of scriptures for the unity and benefit of the body (2 Chronicles 30:22-23; Ephesians 4:12-13). The Bible also warns that when everyone does their own thing, the result is chaos and confusion (Judges 21:25) and that also leads to serious consequences (Proverbs 14:12).

The Bible also provides numerous guidelines to help us avoid making serious mistakes. Proverbs 11:14 tells us “where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in a multitude of counselors there is safety.” These ministers felt they had to follow their conscience in these matters. However, our conscience is guided by our beliefs, which are based on our understanding of the Scriptures. If our understanding of the Scriptures is not correct, our conscience will be misinformed. These men chose to promote and follow their own ideas and ignore the advice of the Council of Elders regarding their understanding of the Scriptures. Proverbs 14:12 warns there is a way that seems right to a person, but that way leads to death. The Apostle Peter admonishes younger elders to be humble, respectful, and submissive to their elders (1 Peter 5:1-6), however, these ministers chose to reject the counsel they were given by senior ministers who were old enough to be their fathers. We need to remember these instructions. 

The track record of rebellion in the COG movement is a sure indication that the senior ministers of the church have been the most rebellious over the decades and are the ones who have caused the most damage to members' lives. Is it any better reason that people do NOT follow their advice?

Winnail goes on to write that the fruits of these departures have not been good (Global members can testify to that!) and admits that their own history proves this fact.

Another important lesson is from our own history as an organization. During the last 25 years, we have seen more than a dozen ministers and self-appointed leaders depart from the Global/Living Church of God. In nearly every case, these individuals found some point of doctrine they disagreed with or encountered situations they did not like or people they could not get along with or who did not accept their ideas. Yet, in nearly every case, the organizations they started either jumped the tracks doctrinally (with leaders claiming to be apostles or prophets) or their organization dwindled away to little or nothing. The fruits of these departures have not been good—and the evidence is there for anyone with eyes to see. This is why Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:1-11 that the historical examples in the Old Testament were recorded for our admonition today! Our own history as an organization should also be instructive. 

Winnail goes on to blame the internet for causing confusion in the church in spite of the fact LCG has caused so much confusion over the last 25+ years that no one knows exactly what they stand for anymore.  

But never fear though, it is NOT his role or LCG's role to pass judgment upon these rebellious men. the only role that LCG leadership has is to lovingly help you see the bigger picture than what you see on the internet and God forbid allow any ones personal feelings enter into the play.

In dealing with the fallout of this current departure, you will encounter people who are genuinely confused by what they see on the internet or because they have a personal relationship with some who are leaving. It is not our role as ministers (or as members) to pass judgment on the fate of people who are confused or have left. It is not our role, or the role of our members to determine who will be in the Place of Safety or in the Kingdom. That is God’s decision. However, you can encourage those who are confused to watch what happens as this situation plays out—and make their own decision based on the fruits they see. In Acts 5:33-39, Gamaliel advised those who were upset by the ministry of the apostles, “if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it.” Every person must make their own decisions about who they are going to follow. Our role is to try to help them see a bigger picture than what they see on the internet or what their personal feelings might tell them 

Rough times are ahead for the LCG organization as more men will split off and go their own ways and take members (money machines) with them. Income will drop and Satan will be the cause. 

Rebellious ministers and members will take to the internet and share their concerns and hurts and will be labeled as instruments of Satan that Paul warned about. Satan is like a roaring lion running around the world seeking to devour the LCG church and lead all of its members astray. LCG does not need to worry about big bad meanie Satan destroying the LCG, its very own leadership is doing a great job of that already.

Just remember boys and girls, if you see something on the internet that seems way out in left field, don't' worry, because it probably is! COG history proves this to be true! In the COG where there is smoke there is ALWAYS a fire burning and it is not always Satan who is behind it.

Fellow ministers, this departure will probably not be the last, because the times ahead will be challenging. We should not be surprised by this because Paul warned us this type of thing would happen (Acts 20:29-31). We all have to be alert because Satan is like a roaring lion seeking who he can deceive and devour (1 Peter 5:8). Satan knows our individual vulnerabilities, and he will try to exploit those weak points. Don’t let that happen to you. If you see or hear something on the internet that sounds way out, it probably is! However, if it sounds reasonable and you have questions, please call us to get our input. We need to work together because we have a work yet to do, that Satan will try to disrupt in any way that he can. Let’s pray for each other and for our members and for those who are caught up in this current departure. God does not want any of His sheep to be lost, and that is part of our job as shepherds 

 

Warm Regards,
Douglas S. Winnail

Living Church of God members once again falling under influence of Satan. Can LCG members EVER do anything right?

There is a reason followers of Christ don't have to worry

about constant temptation and worrying about "qualifying" 

for that kingdom to come.

 

I truly feel sorry for the Living Church of God members and how they are constantly being told they are screwing things up.  Now they are "drifting off course" due to big bad meanie Satan influencing them. Can these poor people EVER do anything right?

Their entire life seems to be one big mess as they allow themselves to be constantly distracted by trials and temptations because they are unfaithful and losing focus. Because of that, they are in danger of losing their "qualification" status with God, since he is ALWAYS testing them to find out if they are worthy. It has to be a tiresome and weary struggle to be constantly struggling to please an eternally pissed off god such as that.

There is a reason that Jesus said his way of grace, mercy, justice, and compassion was a way that brings true rest.

Matthew 11:28-30
The Message

28-30 “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

 

Stay Focused on Our Mission: 

 

The lessons of history record that mankind and God’s chosen people have drifted off course again and again due to Satan’s deceptive influence. Adam and Eve made wrong choices that sent the course of history off in a wrong direction (Genesis 3). Ancient Israel turned from God and suffered consequences—and modern Israelite nations are heading down this same path. Even individuals called to be saints have turned aside (1 Timothy 1:18–20; 2 Timothy 1:15). Jesus Christ called disciples and raised up His Church to preach the Gospel (Mark 1:14–15; 16:15), to warn the world of the consequences of sin, and to announce events that indicate His return is near (Matthew 24). The mission of God’s Church also involves preparing a people to rule with Jesus Christ as kings, priests, and teachers in the coming Kingdom of God (Luke 1:17; John 21:15–17). To qualify for this challenging and exciting reward, we must avoid being distracted by the trials and temptations of this world (Matthew 13:18–23), and we must remain faithful and focused on our calling and our God-given mission (Matthew 24:13–14; Revelation 3:8–12; 17:14). Let’s each make that our goal!

Have a profitable Sabbath,
Douglas S. Winnail