Bob Thiel considers his words so prophetic that he has quotes scripture to warn those that find him foolish:
Delusional Bob was not appointed by God. He was not doubly blessed by God to be set apart to be a new splinter group leader. Gaylyn Bonjour never even entertained the thought of such a thing happening when Theil asked for a blessing before going in to counsel with Meredith. Thus, there is no concern to be had for anyone who disregards anything Theil says. Quoting Isaiah as a threat does not mean God is going to back up that threat.Later today, the National Football League (NFL) is scheduled to begin its official season for this violent sport. Many do not wish to seriously consider that American football is harmful, despite the facts, and would prefer that I not post about it.
The Bible suggests otherwise:
1 Cry aloud, spare not;
Lift up your voice like a trumpet;
Tell My people their transgression,
And the house of Jacob their sins. (Isaiah 58:1)
While there is an ongoing debate on the physical repercussions of tackle football, Thiel sets himself up as the FINAL authority on the matter.
For some reason, he feels that his group is the true Philadelphian era and is filled with Philadelphia Christians. For those that still believe the "era's" teachings, it is recognized by most that this would be considered the Laodicean era of the church.
He writes:
There is no doubt that American tackle football is dangerous to health. While some in the world consider watching it to be an ‘ethical uncertainty,’ true Philadelphia Christians (as well many who are not) realize that something about this sport is physically harmful and should not be encouraged.
These are some of the "proof's" Theil has for his nonsense:Those who claim that encouraging American tackle football is fine are NOT Philadelphian Christians. American tackle football causes real damage. Damage that should not be encouraged.
Thiel cannot get past the cheerleaders either:Jesus taught not to intentionally hurt others, as it taught:
39… ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ (Matthew 22:39, NKJV)The Apostle Paul also wrote:
29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it (Ephesians 5:29, NKJV)Also, notice what John the Baptist taught soldiers:
14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages. (Luke 3:14, KJV)
From the violence on the field, to the under-clothed cheerleaders, to some of the half-time antics, there is a lot wrong with American football.
Thiel also feels that the "gospel" prohibits football. I can assure you that no writer of scripture ever entertained the thought of American football when writing out those verses.
Then like any good Armstrongite has to do, Theil has to bring Herbert into the picture:Additionally, twice the New Testament refers to the good news message as “the gospel of peace”:
“How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!” (Romans 10:15)Is not taking a stand against encouraging sports violence consistent with the gospel of peace and love? Or should ministers tell people that violent sports like American tackle football are not “inherently evil” as at least one minister has done?
14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (Ephesians 6:14-15)
Unlike stories of violence in books or movies, American football involves actual violence and often physical injury–including brain damaging ones that are often not obvious for years.
For someone who supposedly characterized football as "evil." Herbert watched football as well as basketball on Friday nights and Saturdays.The Bible forbids harming others or encouraging sin. Early professors of Christ would not watch violent games as they felt that watching was encouraging and participating in sin. Herbert W. Armstrong categorized American football as evil.
Thiel continues:
Thiel's final warning is that you WILL go through the tribulation of you watch football this coming season.I do not watch American football. I consider that it is evil (also, no Christian can really defend how professional football cheerleading females are often publicly dressed and displayed). Others want to falsely act like there is nothing wrong with watching it.
Be warned! Your salvation is at stake!
Those Laodicean Christians who are fans of American tackle football are NOT Philadelphians and will be subject to violence themselves as they will have to go through the Great Tribulation if they do not repent (Revelation 3:14-22).
You can read his pile of malarkey here: NFL 2015: Should Christians Watch?