Church of God International's Bill Watson Starts A New "Work" to Warn, Witness and Make Disciples...Ho hum...What Else Is New?

Bill Watson Declares His Independence!

CGI Pastor Bill Watson chose the Sabbath following Independence Day to declare his semi-separation from the Church of God International (headquartered in Tyler, Texas). Bill announced a new website for the Medina Church (Church of God International, Medina). He went on to say that their former website (CGI Medina) would no longer be updated by them (because it's owned by headquarters).

Watson also announced a new program produced by the Medina Church called Wall Watchers (which corresponds to Medina's new mission statement, which reads in part: "The Church of God International, Medina is committed to advancing the gospel of Jesus Christ on behalf of our Father. Our teachings are underscored by the adherence to the original Apostolic Teachings of the early church. Our “Work,” in Christ’s name is to witness, warn, and make disciples for Him––building His Church by the blessing He provides (Matt. 28:19-20). Utilizing a variety of technologies, we are dedicated to “crying aloud” about the impending calamities coming upon mankind that precede the glorious return of our Lord and Savior; who is destined to establish His world-ruling Kingdom on Earth..." appears prominently on the new homepage.

Although Mr. Watson protested that he was still a minister in good standing of CGI, those of us who have been following developments within that organization have noted a cooling of the relationship between Tyler and Medina over the last several years (which began back in the days of the Covid Pandemic, before my own father's death). Many of my readers may be unaware of the fact that Medina has been keeping its tithe income for itself for many years now (only a small portion is sent to Tyler). In fact, Mr. Watson's announcement is just the latest chapter in the story of that congregation's drift from headquarters.

Tyler had previously taken Bill off of their payroll and reprimanded him for some of the things that he had been saying from the pulpit. They also effectively demoted him from being the voice of their longstanding "Armor of God" program (and introduced new programs led by folks like Mike James). While many of the ministry of CGI have abandoned British-Israelism, Bill continues to fully embrace the teaching and prominently features it in his sermons.

In other words, from this observer's perspective, I only see the gulf widening between Medina and the parent organization and would not be surprised if an official separation was declared in the near future. Mr. Watson has a big ego, and a very high opinion of his own talents and abilities. Moreover, like his favorite president (DJT), Bill enjoys being in control - in the driver's seat, so to speak! He has been uncomfortable in a subordinate role and acting as a servant of Tyler's for many years now. Finally, I will be expecting a number of declarations from both sides that nothing has changed, and all is well. Nevertheless, the evidence is what is happening right before our very eyes (and I choose to believe what I'm seeing over what someone else is trying to sell me)! What do you think?

 Miller Jones/Lonnie C Hendrix a

LCG Anticipating Troubling Times Ahead

 

Living Church of God is urging members to prepare for self-sufficiency in case of disasters, a prudent step for anyone given the risks of weather events, earthquakes, and other crises. However, their warning carries a troubling tone, rooted in their belief that intense persecution is imminent. They foresee a time when the "Beast," identified as Germany, will restrict their ability to buy and sell and establish concentration camps to target them. The church advises readiness for this ominous future. 

If they had only listened to Bob Thiel, they could be in Petra sipping Desert Margaritas and eating falafel. That is, if he even lets them in. They will finally need to bow down at Bob's feet and acknowledge he was right. You can be guaranteed that Bob will send them to the less desirable caves.

Are You Prepared? We are living in increasingly uncertain times, with unstable economies, weather disruptions, political demonstrations, and terrorist activities that can suddenly disrupt our daily lives—which means we need to plan ahead for unexpected emergencies. Solomon wrote, “A prudent man foresees evil [danger] and hides himself [takes refuge], but the simple [the naïve and unsuspecting] pass on and are punished [have to face the consequences of not being prepared]” (Proverbs 22:3). God’s Church has long encouraged members to prepare for unexpected emergencies by keeping a supply of bottled water, a stock of non-perishable food, first aid supplies, extra batteries for flashlights, heating devices, and other items that may be needed if normal public services are disrupted. While God’s people look to Him for their ultimate protection, we also need to do our part to be prepared—so we are not taken by surprise.
Have a profitable Sabbath,
Douglas S. Winnail

Dave Pack: You can be praised if you lie under the right circumstances