United Church of God: Stressed Out During the Current Political Environment and Covid Times? Let Us Calm You Down

 

Ah, just what church members and the world needs, UCG calming everybody down. Who knew they were able to do such things? 

Given their track record of rebellious ministers causing numerous several church divisions are we expected to look to them for direction on how to be calm and peaceful? Seriously?

So many people in the United States are anxious and depressed. This anxiety and uncertainty knows no borders. It stretches around the globe. Psychologists talk openly about “election stress disorder.” People were already fatigued by the never-ending coronavirus pandemic and the rioting that swept through our country a few months back. This is now compounded by the uncertainty of a national election that has not yet ended, with both sides claiming victory and/or fraud. While relative calm existed on the American election day, civic unrest now froths in U.S. cities. This all takes its toll. In the United States, essentially 50 percent of the population is guaranteed to be unhappy with the final election results, even depressed and angry, no matter what the outcome. It’s a tough time. 

 

This angst of anxiety even threatens the bond of love and peace among some of our brethren! Our words between us have power and we must be careful not to weaponize our words, inadvertently indulging in accusations and counteraccusations, judging and condemning each other, and causing offense. 

 

We must maturely and sensitively realize that many people—both in the Church and outside—hurt deeply, even feel torn apart, on all points of being human. While we must remain true to our mission and purpose, we must also exercise spiritual discernment, and as the apostle Paul writes to us: “Let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up” (Romans 14:19, New Living Translation). 

 

How are we handling the tumult in our midst? The answer is vitally important because the proper response allows us to plant our feet firmly on the ground, put our shoulders back and stand firm, even when earthly forces storm and howl around us. 

 

We must remember who we are as Christians. We must remember our calling more than ever at this time. We must not forget our primary citizenship. When we surrender our lives to obedience at our conversion, we are granted citizenship in a coming Kingdom that will last forever, one that God Himself preserves for us in heaven, awaiting the return of the King of kings to this strife-torn planet (Philippians 3:20). 

 

We need to confidently fix this in our mind—no matter the outcome of any earthly election. God is still in charge! We can boldly embrace these words: “Remember this and stand firm . . . I am God and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying ‘My counsel shall stand’” (Isaiah 46:8, 10, English Standard Version). Personal from the President

UCG Members Tell Cincinnati That They Want Better Speakers And Subjects Preached On AND Better Quality Meeting Locations

United Church of God recently did a member survey on how effective members thought the church was doing in its ministry to them and the world. 

One thing came back loud and clear. Poor speakers and unwelcoming meeting facilities were a major concern for members. 

The ministry needs to improve in its speaking skills and in what they deliver. This has long been a complaint by COG members regardless of which splinter group they are in. COG ministers are NOT well trained in speaking and get their training from Spokesman Clubs where men were/are belittled and mocked about their speaking skills, appearance, and knowledge. It is the blind leading the blind. Instead of encouraging their men to join REAL organizations that teach public speaking, like Toastmaster International which Armstrongism regrettably tried to imitate. 

The ministry in the COG is also NOT trained in real counseling techniques. Again, it is the blind leading the blind when it comes to counseling members. It is usually men who have been in the ministry a long time who think they know it all and bring along younger men to watch their amazing counseling skills and learn from them, thus bad techniques are passed on and on.

Besides the poor sermons, some members are embarrassed by their meeting locations and the overall experience their guests may have when visiting church.

Back to UCG's survey:

September/October United News

 

While members do have high confidence in their understanding around fundamental beliefs and

truths, they continue to be hesitant in directly promoting UCG.

Across all groups, the quality of speaking and amount of manpower remains a concern consistent with results from prior years. Many are unwilling to recommend contact with UCG because they do not believe it is their role, or they have concerns over what the guest will experience at services. Specifically, that components from the home office (website, literature, Beyond Today) are polished, but the local halls or the congregation itself are not as welcoming.

Most of all, respondents are consistently very positive about their local pastor (and wife) and the amount of work and service they provide to members. This is notably higher than in prior years.

Next Steps & Conclusion

While there were many positive comments, surveys by their nature highlight areas to explore and additional work to be done. This year, the biggest takeaways focus on five key aspects:

1. Invest in improving speaking at services. Whether sermonettes or sermons, develop programs around continuing to improve the content and delivery of messages.

“One of the greatest weaknesses of my congregation— and most congregations—is the quality and effectiveness of the weekly Sabbath messages. Training should be conducted or subsidized for all those given the responsibility to speak in order to help them develop the skills and tools to speak effectively and in line with basic princip[les] of learning and development, not just technically doctrinally correct messages. I believe this is key for the church to continue to grow and to properly feed not only those veterans in the church but the newly converted.”

2. Establish a consistent and minimum standard toward the quality of meeting halls. This is new this year, along with a desire to own meeting halls, but is perceived as being able to help local congregations thrive and grow.

3. Explore the balance of programs and resources devoted to Preaching the Gospel and Preparing a People. The respondents understand these are hard choices.

4. The engagement at services, whether that be rich, spiritual conversations or involving more of the membership in service. Especially beyond elements of speaking, there is a real desire for more members to reach out and check in on one another and make sure everyone feels included in fellowship and activities. Many desire an experience similar to this comment:

“We are a close-knit family. Eating a potluck meal together every week after services and prolonging the fellowshipping has truly contributed to our closeness. Some of us have formed special ‘study-buddy’ relationships which continually stirs up the spirit within us, just as it should. I am so grateful to have been called by God and to be a part of this congregation I am with!”

5. There is deep admiration for the service and work pastors and their wives do for the members. There is a need to perhaps adjust expectation on how much can be done with smaller overall membership and concern they are spread too thin.

• “Although my pastor has more on his plate than most people could handle, I think he does an excellent job. However, I do worry that he is asked to do too much.”

• “Our pastor is one of the most humble and serving people I have ever met! We are very, very blessed to have him and his wife with us!!”

The survey administration team would like to express its appreciation to all those who took the time to participate in the survey. Many of the insights and findings included actionable and helpful ideas and the data represents a statistically sound representation due to the efforts of those that contributed.

While one of the comments stated, “I feel overall that considering our budget and man-power situation, we are doing a superb job...it is an honor to be asked periodically as is the case here,” it is just as important to recognize everyone who shared their thoughts. Thank you. 

 

UCG Had To Cancel Sabbath Services After Returning Attendees From 3 Different Feast Sites Tested Positve To Covid

 

From a reader:

UCG reported positive cases in St. George, Daytona and Big Sandy. They cancelled services this last Sabbath. I personally know of 2 that fell ill when they got home and are now hospitalized. 

The only thing about COVID-19 in their Feast brochure that listed sites was this:

 

Stephen Allwine, United Church of God Elder Who Killed His Wife Is Back In The News

 

In 2016, United Church of God Elder Stephen Allwine shot and killed his wife after growing impatient for his hired assassin that he found on the dark web to do the dirty deed. Allwine, convicted and sent to prison where he brags about being able to teach fellow prisoners about UCG's god, is back in the news.

48 Hours, the news show featured on the ID Network has spent 2 years researching the dark web where Allwine sought to find a person to kill his wife.

Murder-for-hire on the dark web, Besa Mafia and the shadowy Yura: 48 Hours on ID uncovers international plot 

 

48 Hours on ID with investigative reporter Peter Van Sant spent two years prying into the activities of a shady organization in the dark reaches of the internet that appeared to offer murder-for-hire services.

An individual known only as Yura and operating on the so-called dark web has been offering to murder people all around the world for a few thousand dollars. Yura claims to be the head of an international criminal organization that specializes in murder called Besa Mafia.

CBS came across a video diary created by Yura, where he states, “A hitman marketplace is like any other auction site. It brings customers and vendors together.” The FBI first learned about Besa Mafia and Yura in 2016 when investigating the death of Amy Allwine from Minnesota.

In the spring of 2016, investigators learned that someone using the user name Dogdaygod had ordered a hit on Amy through the dark web. Dogdaygod reportedly paid Besa Mafia $12,000 to kill Amy and stated that she had ruined his life and his business. Amy was unable to think who might want her dead.

Tragically in November, her husband, Stephen Allwine, shot her dead. He tried to tell the police that it was suicide, but they learned he was the killer after an extensive investigation.

The cops believe that Stephen was Dogdaygod but had gotten fed up waiting for Yura to kill his wife, so he took matters into his own hands. 

Read the entire story here. 

The following video is unrelated to the above story but will fill in readers unfamiliar with Allwine's story.

Also, see:

Stephen Allwine Sentenced To Life In Prison For Murdering Wife  

 

The strange trial of Stephen Allwine, a preacher accused of killing his wife

A church elder’s Ashley Madison affairs led him to the dark Web — and murder, police say

Preacher's wife found dead in staged suicide - who pulled the trigger?

 

 

UCG: Relax, COVID is not a sign of the end times, but is a "Dress Rehearsal"

 

We must never forget that the boys in Cincinnati are the authority on all kind of things, and in this case, prophecy. They have determined that there is no need to worry about the pandemic being a sure sign of the end times. Whew! What a relief!

Interest in Bible prophecy has been sharpened by this pandemic. Very early on, we said this was not the time of pestilence defined by the fourth horseman in Revelation 6. Certainly, it has been a serious health emergency, but we understand there were other pieces of the prophetic puzzle not yet in place. There will be larger disease pandemics in the future. To use Mr. Mead’s phrase, this has been a “dress rehearsal.” 

 

More recently some have concluded that an impending vaccine for this virus could be the “mark of the beast” mentioned in Revelation. Such speculation does not match the biblical descriptors of what will come upon the world during the coming great tribulation. God’s elect will know when this mark arrives and will have the fortitude to resist its defining features. Unsound and unscriptural speculation today should be avoided. We are not yet at the moment when the beast power has appeared and is enforcing its mark. 

They know this is not a sign of the end because Darris McNeely has not seen the 4 Horsemen ride across the country. 

We haven’t run with the horses yet. But we have come through a period we should consider as a dress rehearsal for bigger things to come. Let’s learn from what we’ve experienced.

So there you have it! Bob Thiel eat your heart out!  

UCG: An online petition has been started to ask UCG to "withdraw" its mask requirement at Feast sites where local ordinances don't require them

 

It's another day in COGland and the craziness continues. Can there be a more dysfunctional Church of God to ever exist in Sabbatarian history?

United Church of God recently announced that masks were required at all Feast sites this year.

Now there is a group in UCG ticked off about masks. Someone has started a petition to ask UCG to reconsider. Seriously, as if ANY UCG leader or ANY COG leader would EVER consider a  petition! Church members are too stupid to be asking questions or making demands. The boys in Cincinnatti will ignore this as they ignore every other issue UCG members present to the leaders.

Check the site out here before UCG leaders have a hissy-fit and demand the person delete it:

Muffled Joyful Noise

UCG: Look at us! We "socially distanced" but are still preaching the same old crap. Woo Hoo!

 

Screenshot of recent filming

The boys in Cincinnati want you to know that they are socially distancing during the live filming of their podcasts...though inquiring minds want to know - where are the masks?

They seem pleased at the topics of their recent episodes, though it looks like the same tired worn out crap that has been preached about for decades. It is almost 2021 and one would think they could come up with new material.

Yesterday we recorded three more Beyond Today television programs with a studio audience consisting of our Ambassador Bible College class. The programs were "Human Identity and the Family of God" by Darris McNeely, "Why Do Good People Suffer?" by Steve Myers and "Beware the Mark of the Beast" by Gary Petty.

Their "faith" is also being challenged by the COVID restrictions that limit the Feast of Tabernacles' locations, attendance, and procedures this year. All first-world problems for an elitist COG group. Especially, while they have members in Africa who may walk half or full-day journey's to be at a Feast location (like they have bragged about happening in the past). Yet, the boys whine about U.S. restrictions.

Never fear though, UCG's CORRECT version of prophecy has all of this under control. Bob Thiel, be damned, we have it right!

We live in an era of fear, anxiety and uncertainty. But we in the Church of God are blessed with understanding—especially prophetic understanding—that brings peace and calmness. We can withstand and overcome trials in part because we confidently know that whatever season of life we are in, we will come out of it, We will win.

You can read Kubik's entire missive here: Update from the President: September 3. 2020

Melvin Rhodes: The Age of Ignorance?

 

The Age of Ignorance?

Mel Rhodes has posted a piece that appears to be a rebuttal to my post "Faith of Our Fathers: A Racist Legacy." His post, "The Age of Ignorance," opens with a tribute to Handel's The Messiah (with which I have no problem). He wrote: "Today, we live in what can best be described as the age of ignorance.

Whatever the issues of the day, Black Lives Matter, slavery, and abortion, to name but three, a great deal of ignorance abounds. Gone is the grounding people once had in the Christian scriptures. Now, people spout their opinions, whatever they may be, exposing their ignorance on all topics.

The secularists may still appreciate the Hallelujah Chorus, for the inspiring music, but gone is the faith of their ancestors. It has been replaced solely by ignorance."

My first date with the mother of my children was on the occasion of a performance of The Messiah at the Von Braun Civic Center in Huntsville, Alabama. Then, as now, I felt inspired and appreciated the allusion to the fulfillment of God's plan for humankind as outlined in the Judeo-Christian Bible. Hence, my admiration for this composition could never be described as being secular in nature.

And, although the first two Hanoverian kings of Britain recognized Handel's talent, neither of them could fairly be characterized as "Christian" kings - unless we are using that term in the generic sense - as in, Donald Trump is a "Christian" president. George I was an adulterer who imprisoned his wife for seeking solace in the arms of another and had several children with his mistress.

Likewise, George II had several mistresses and was estranged from his father and heir (the Prince of Wales) for many years. Both George's were crude, vindictive men who spoke little English and used the British throne to further the interests of their principality in Germany (NCK objected to my characterization of it as a minor principality in the previous version of this post). Moreover, as far as the "Divine Right of Kings" is concerned, the only reason the Hanoverians ascended the British throne was that Parliament had barred the legitimate heir to the throne from the succession because he was a Roman Catholic!

In fact, the quotation from Dr. Roy Atwood is a perfect example of the kind of sentimental/nostalgic/fairytale history that I referenced in my post. For those who are interested in correcting the errors of their forefathers, the solution is relatively simple. It only requires a little intellectual curiosity, an open mind, a desire to be a better person and faith in God's ability to transform and forgive.

See Mr. Rhodes' post here

Lonnie Hendrix

Vic Kubik: Drawing upon my pain and suffering I am a more empathic leader

What the heck did I just read below?????? 

Why is it that the ministry of the church has to remind us how much they suffer?

Their pain and suffering are always greater than the suffering members have to deal with because of them. 

Never before in church history has one man suffered so much (except maybe than Bob Thiel). Where is our empathy? 

What more can we learn through hardship and setbacks beyond reliance on God and survival? In the midst of a trial, we can easily lament: Why is this happening to me? or I wish I wasn’t going through this! or What’s the point of this pain?

The trial could be related to health, finance, relationships, death of a loved one, marriage and children or persistent failure to overcome personal weaknesses. It could be due to matters involving our spiritual journey in fulfilling God’s will.

The apostle Paul related his horrific hardships to the Corinthian brethren while evangelizing in what is today Turkey. He told his story in such a way that this narrative has become a notable go-to scripture to understand why and how we must live through difficult trials. Note Paul’s story:

“We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead. And he did rescue us from mortal danger, and he will rescue us again. We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us” (2 Corinthians 1:8-10, NLT). Through direct experience, Paul clearly relates how he learned to trust God for deliverance from mortal danger. His key point? God brought him through challenging trials again and again. Today, most of us have not even come close to facing such life and death situations. But we can certainly apply what Paul learned to the rocky road of life that we may be traveling on.

In this same chapter, Paul goes further to explain that life as a disciple of Jesus Christ isn’t just about mere survival. Our trials elevate us to a higher level of thinking and conduct. Our trial is not just about us. Trials give us an opportunity to learn how to reach out to others. God’s rescue is a big part of the story—but not the only part. In the narrative quoted here in 2 Corinthians, the more complete story is revealed by Paul:

“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us” (2 Corinthians 1:3-7, The Living Bible).

These passages first came to life in my Epistles of Paul class at Ambassador College. They made a vivid impression on me as a 20-year-old student. Over and over in my pastoral career these words repeatedly demonstrated where true leadership shines.

I have found that to be true leaders, we must step outside of ourselves and show ourselves exposed and humbled. A leader draws on his or her own pain as one sufferer among a common sea of sufferers. A leader uses his or her own experience to empathize with others. In my ministry over the years, my own personal tribulations helped me genuinely empathize with people in great pain.

Jesus Christ left us a sterling example of going through painful ordeals for the purpose of encouraging us: “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16).

Victor Kubik: UCG's Empathetic and Humble Leader

“We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead. And he did rescue us from mortal danger, and he will rescue us again. We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us” (2 Corinthians 1:8-10, NLT).

Through direct experience, Paul clearly relates how he learned to trust God for deliverance from mortal danger. His key point? God brought him through challenging trials again and again. Today, most of us have not even come close to facing such life and death situations. But we can certainly apply what Paul learned to the rocky road of life that we may be traveling on.

In this same chapter, Paul goes further to explain that life as a disciple of Jesus Christ isn’t just about mere survival. Our trials elevate us to a higher level of thinking and conduct. Our trial is not just about us. Trials give us an opportunity to learn how to reach out to others. God’s rescue is a big part of the story—but not the only part. In the narrative quoted here in 2 Corinthians, the more complete story is revealed by Paul:

“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us” (2 Corinthians 1:3- 7, The Living Bible).

These passages first came to life in my Epistles of Paul class at Ambassador College. They made a vivid impression on me as a 20-year-old student. Over and over in my pastoral career these words repeatedly demonstrated where true leadership shines.

I have found that to be true leaders, we must step outside of ourselves and show ourselves exposed and humbled. A leader draws on his or her own pain as one sufferer among a common sea of sufferers. A leader uses his or her own experience to empathize with others. In my ministry over the years, my own personal tribulations helped me genuinely empathize with people in great pain.

Where was that empathy when he was still on Worldwide Church of God payroll as he was disfellowshipping people left and right because they disagreed with Tkach's new teachings, even though he himself did not agree with them and was privately working behind the scenes while on WCG payroll, to fragment the church and form a new one W.hen has Kubik ever suffered through tribulation in the church?

Jesus Christ left us a sterling example of going through painful ordeals for the purpose of encouraging us: “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempt- ed as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16). UN

Jesus Christ certainly left us a sterling example of what a spiritual leader should be like.  Sadly, most COG leaders have never even tried to follow the guy. They are too busy trying to maintain the status quo they have assumed they deserve.

Vic Kubik: Whitewashing racism in the COG from the past and on todays troubles

Here is what Vik Kubik has to say:

The Church of God community is no stranger to racial issues. I personally witnessed church racial segregation at the 1966 Feast of Tabernacles in Big Sandy, Texas. I had recently traveled through the Soviet Union for six weeks as a translator and photographer with Herman Hoeh, managing editor of the Plain Truth magazine. Dr. Hoeh invited me to make a few remarks about the significance of the trip to about 12,000 members and families attending there.

As I looked over the crowd, I was taken aback. A very large group of black families was segregated together. In a now-obvious reflection of cultural trends of the times, the church misunderstood certain Bible verses and here was the result. The application of this misunderstanding physically segregated church members by race, which was, of course, not right.

Thankfully, that policy based on societal expectations and biblical misunderstanding ended, and our understanding improved. Unfortunately, remnants remained, particularly in pockets around the world. As people join the Body of Christ, wrong cultural attitudes need to be abandoned. We have made progress—more is needed.

But even back then, as we believe now, we understood that all people have access to the incredible human potential—the capacity to become a literal child of God (1 John 3:2) and live in glory for all eternity as a member of the God family. What is most important is that we fully understand how God views us and then rise to that standard.

I find it interesting that the church, even during the "enlightened" times Kubik refers to above, regularly called those that were not white, gentiles. That was especially evident with Mayor Tom Bradley was elected mayor of Los Angeles. The gentle black man was ruling over people. Kubik's co-workers in Pasadena in some of his fellow ministers said this.

What is God’s view of us now as literal children? “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave [bondservant] nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28, English Standard Version).

Jesus Christ, whose incomprehensible sacrifice cleared the way for all to be reconciled to God, is the gateway to the true end of this current conflict.

In these times of upheaval, it is critical to remember that when God created all things through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1:2; Colossians 1:16), marvelous diversity was the result. Whether Asian, African, Caucasian, Latin or other background, God pronounced all of it good. Concerning the Kingdom of God—the ultimate goal and objective of every disciple of Jesus Christ—God makes no differentiation to imply that one race is superior to any other. All are equal before Him. His goal, His desire, is that we all become one in Christ.

So, how do we respond to a call for change?

Let's start by putting a black man in charge of United Church of God! Have coordinators of foreign regions of the church regions men of color who are actually from those regions, not some white lackey from Cincinnati sent out into the field. 

First, we must remember that when Jesus came the first time, many thought (or wanted) Jesus to be a political deliverer to put Israel in place as a global-dominating world power. Even moments before a resurrected Jesus ascended to His Father, the apostles were still wondering about that possibility: “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” (Acts 1:6).

Despite living on this earth armed with all authority (John 17:2; Matthew 28:18), Jesus never incited political rebellion against Roman authorities or government leaders, despite having numerous opportunities.

And yet, Kubik and his small cabal of ministers in Pasadena incited rebellion against the mother church, while still on their payroll, to take as many members,, ministers and as much money as he could to start. new church. Kubik and his bro's were in a constant of rebellion against authority.

Second, we should note that the spiritual instructions and commands that Jesus gave apply to all people. The Beatitudes are color-blind. This includes the statement: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9). Jesus—who is our coming King—left instructions with authority. Even the apostles recognized that salvation was available to all and that all held responsibilities for obedience (Acts 15).

Third, true freedom is only available through Jesus Christ. “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free” (John 8:34-36, New Living Translation).

If this is true, then why does UCG and Kubik place the emphasis upon submission to the law? 

In this time of upheaval, we should all be active and careful listeners, whatever our background. Decades worth of hidden hurt and fear now lie open to all. Healing must take place, but the task will be challenging.

Paul tells us to be imitators of God and live a life of love. In this time, that means we are to be intolerant of racial slurs. We understand and appreciate that all people will have the opportunity to achieve their incredible human potential, and we treat them like it. Where there is strife, we sow peace as peacemakers. Our thoughts, speech, and behavior should be free of coarse speech, including online comments. As Paul directs us: “Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving” (Ephesians 5:4, ESV).

 "Where there is strife, we sow peace as peacemakers."  What an absolute hypocritical joke for Kubik to say this!  Where was the peacemaking when his own church ruptured and 3/4's of it left to form COGWA?  Where has there ever been peacmaking making in the Church of God movement between the 500+ splinter groups out there now all proclaiming themselves the true modern-day representation of 1st-century Christianity?

In the immediate days ahead, what is our response? God wants to see “all the members care for each other. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it” (1 Corinthians 12:21-27, NLT).

What is our part in change? Consider this: are we praying that more should receive access to the precious truth we hold, and that more people from all walks of life will be called and join our fellowship? Are we conducting ourselves in such a fashion that people can openly see Jesus Christ in us? We are promised a better life, now and in the world to come. Can those outside catch a glimpse of the coming Kingdom of God in our lives today?

When has the leadership of the Church of God - ANY COG - ever conducted themselves in a fashion that humanity could see Jesus in them? They cannot even talk about the dude that much let alone exemplify the guy in their lives. 

Here’s our part: instead of engaging in contentious protest, “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18, NLT). Answer the call for change: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think” (Romans 12:2, NLT).

UCG: 25+ years later and most members still uncomfortable sharing their beliefs with others

UCG's Mark Welch writes:

The recent 2020 congregational survey certainly indicated that many of you have had the very same emphasis in God’s Church for many years.

In response to the following statement, “I understand the fundamental truths of the Bible,” 99% of respondents “Agreed” or “Strongly Agreed.” As you may have already concluded, this was the highest percentage of agreement on the survey and could not have been much higher!

I am a bit surprised that the response was that high, but I suppose it is because the vast percentage of those who responded to the survey have been longtime members. We do put a great deal of emphasis on knowing and understanding our fundamental beliefs.

I was even a bit more surprised that 94% of respondents “Agreed” or “Strongly Agreed” with the statement, “I can explain the fundamental truths of the Bible.” I think it is wonderful that we have confidence that we are able to explain these fundamental beliefs, as the scripture says: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed” (1 Peter 3:15-16).

Of course, how well one is able to explain our fundamental beliefs is important.

Sadly, one of the conclusions drawn from the survey is that most are confident in their ability to explain their beliefs, but few take the opportunity to do so.

It seems that many of us are reticent to engage in explaining our beliefs to others. It is not difficult to understand why that may be the case. I’m confident that many of us have attempted to do so, but we quickly realized that the person engaging us was not really interested in hearing why we believe what we believe. Instead, we found that they wanted to show us where we were wrong and not genuinely interested in considering the truth of the Bible. They already believed they knew the truth of the Bible. Moreover, before long the nice, casual conversation had become a heated, argumentative debate.

Because of one or two experiences like the one above, we may have concluded that it is best not to engage in a biblical conversation with anyone who isn’t already in God’s Church. But where is the balance? Granted, many people are more interested in debating their own beliefs and are not really open-minded to the real truth of the Bible.

One of the comments on the survey from one of our members indicated that they had a similar experience.

“We recently went through a series of Bible studies on the fundamental beliefs, which was very helpful. I do sometimes have trouble explaining to people outside the church what the Bible really teaches. This is especially true when the person I’m talking to is so dedicated to her own beliefs that she won’t believe me no matter how much scripture I can cite.”

Undoubtedly, many people fall into this category. Nevertheless, there are people out there genuinely interested in learning more about what the Bible says. And it is a very big world with billions of people!

It is not only the UCG members who feel uncomfortable sharing their faith but is common across the board in the Churches of God.  For being the one and only true church, most are not eager to share that with others.

UCG: The Experts On Leadership

UCG is trotting out an article written in 2008 by Scott Ashley concerning biblical leadership and UCG members are sending it to their social media pages as a shining example of what is wrong with leadership in the government, instead of what is wrong in the leadership of their own church.

Well, if God looks at the example that the United Church of God leadership has set, then we are really screwed over!

Ashley writes:

What does God look for in a leader? Does He expect certain standards and behavior in a person chosen for a role of leadership and service to others?

At a time many Americans are asking themselves what behavior they should expect from their president, and the holder of that office is frequently heard quoting the Bible, perhaps we should examine what God expects of a leader.

The Bible is clear that God expects one put in a position of responsibility to meet certain qualifications. This is first brought out when God began working with the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. God was working with a nation of former slaves, shaping and molding them into a new nation. Where would He begin?

One problem quickly became apparent. Since the people brought their questions, problems and disputes to Moses, the decision-making process quickly became a bottleneck and ground to a halt. The solution? Share the load by delegating authority to capable leaders.

By what criteria were leaders to be chosen? Moses was advised to “select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness …” (Exodus 18:21).

With a core leadership of able, God-fearing, truthful, unselfish men, the new nation would build a firm foundation. Moses solved his immediate problem and gave his people a sound start on nationhood.

Through the apostle Paul, God enumerated requirements for positions of leadership and service within His Church. Consider the standards, listed below, that Paul gave to his fellow minister Timothy for choosing such leaders:

“… The presiding elder must have an impeccable character. Husband of one wife, he must be temperate, discreet and courteous, hospitable and a good teacher; not a heavy drinker, nor hot-tempered, but gentle and peaceable, not avaricious, a man who manages his own household well and brings his children up to obey him and be well-behaved: how can any man who does not understand how to manage his own household take care of the Church of God? … It is also necessary that he be held in good repute by outsiders, so that he never falls into disrepute and into the devil’s trap.

This certainly does not describe UCG leadership.  From pedophiles, adulterers, inappropriate touching, stalking, and verbal harassment, UCG has led the way on how to NOT do what is right. 

“Similarly, deacons must be respectable, not double tongued, moderate in the amount of wine they drink and with no squalid greed for money … They are first to be examined, and admitted to serve as deacons only if there is nothing against them” (1 Timothy 3:1-10, New Jerusalem Bible).

Many of the leadership in UCG were well know around Pasadena as alcoholics. 

Apparently, we are also to believe that UCG leaders are NOT arrogant, hot-tempered, not heavy drinkers, or filed with avaricious. Seriously?

Titus 1:7-8 adds: “The presiding elder has to be irreproachable since he is God’s representative; never arrogant or hot-tempered, nor a heavy drinker or violent, nor avaricious; but hospitable and a lover of goodness; sensible, upright, devout and self-controlled …” (New Jerusalem Bible).

We should ask ourselves: If these are minimum qualifications for overseers of a small congregation of believers, what should we expect from those who oversee states and nations?

Those who excuse the president’s admitted peccadilloes fail to note that any schoolteacher or principal, university professor or supervisor in private business would likely be immediately fired for such conduct. Military officers would be discharged, court-martialed or imprisoned—and many have been—for actions many are willing to tolerate in the nation’s commander in chief. Many Americans don’t seem to appreciate the irony that they hold the presidency to lower standards than any of these jobs.

Moses and Paul understood that leadership requires moral authority to be credible. If one is to accept advice, decisions and instructions from leaders, one must have confidence in the core values and moral foundation behind their words. GN

Leadership in the church does require a moral authority to be credible. Sadly, the Church of God leaders across the board have failed in this matter abysmally.

United Church of God: Why doesn't it have representative leadership of its membership?

From a reader.

The UCG "Council of Elders" , is 100% USA based, with all white ministry. Even the international regional representatives are home-based in the USA.

Nearly half of the UCG membership lives AWAY from the USA, yet has no council representation of someone who lives there!

Thousands of black Africans are in the UCG, yet not one council member who lives and works in Africa.

Baseball desegregated in 1947 with Jackie Robinson, but it was 30 years later before a black manager was seen in baseball (Frank Robinson). UCG, just like baseball, speaks out against racism, but the real proof will be when they allow empowerment in upper management at the Council level of a minority presence and representative to the population numbers that are members of the UCG.

UCG, on the international basis, is still practicing a Colonial European plantation mentality to its own members. Tonto

This lack of leadership diversity in the Church of God is not unique to UCG. Living Church of God, COGWA, Philadelphia Church of God, Restored Church of God, and many others are white based in its leadership and almost exclusively American in its international leadership.

Vic Kubik Says It Is Not A Sin To Be Immunized

In various Church of God's it is anathema to ever consider getting flu shots, immunizations, or even go to doctors. Thanks to the endless waffling by Herbert Armstrong over the use of doctors, so many church members have a built-in fear of going to doctors. Sadly, even when prohibiting church members from using doctors, Herbert was going to them for all kinds of "ailments", including his impotence. 

With the current pandemic of COVID circling the earth, research is quickly working to find a cure or at least an immunization shot that can stop the virus from causing so much damage.

Kubik has stepped forward to let his followers know that he and the church will not discourage those who want to get the shots. This is sure to set off many of the self-righteous leaders and ministers in various splinter groups.

As government authorities at all levels struggle to cope with health remedies for the pandemic, opinions and alternative solutions grow. In the Church of God community, many hold to a focus of looking for natural treatments. On the other hand, many accept and seek traditional medical treatment. All seek healing from God (James 5:14-15) but may choose different paths to support that healing.

Regarding this, it is important to note here that as a Church, we are not experts in the practice of medicine. For instance, the Bible does not teach that immunization is a sin. Also, while the United Church of God positively teaches that being immunized is a medical matter and is not sin, the Church also does not judge those who, because of conscience, choose not to be immunized.

We emphasize respect for the personal decision made by the individual. The issue may grow more complicated, especially if local governments require vaccinations for participation in public schools and the like, but we still recognize respect for personal decisions.