A Tech Team meeting was conducted on Sunday morning, December 6, 2015, via SKYPE. Higlights include: resolving issues with our live video broadcast; the Search option for our CEG website has been enhanced; improvements in the stylesheet for printing the Update have been made; social media and marketing schedules were reviewed; and, new design and use elements for StandingWatch were scheduled.

“Did Jesus Keep Hanukkah?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

There is no biblical support for the idea that Christ participated in modern Hanukkah celebrations. The “miracle of the oil” which allegedly lasted for eight days is merely a legend and historically inaccurate. It was apparently adopted from pagan concepts at the time when the Babylonian Talmud was written, long after the Maccabees. But God does not accept our worship if we incorporate elements, which were used by pagans to observe their holidays.

“The Dark Side of Christmas,” is the title of another new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is the summary for this new SW program, which is now posted and which will be promoted starting on December 15.  We will not send out a usual announcement of the program, as this will be done through Facebook ads, etc.:

Christmas is associated with beautiful Christmas trees and shining lights and candles in an attempt to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Light. But there is a very dark side to Christmas. Satan is the prince of darkness, but as the god of this world, he disguises himself as an angel of light. And even though Christmas may appear to be a joyful festival of lights, it is built on an evil and dark foundation which is actually associated with demon worship.

“Gelten Gottes Verheißungen an Abraham für uns Heute?” is the title of this week’s new German sermon. Title in English: “Are God’s Promises to Abraham Valid for Us Today?

“Depth of Field,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Living a Christian life requires that we resolve a paradox. How can we live a successful, spiritual life within a body and world that is necessarily physical? Part of the answer involves understanding how to focus our motivation. Just as the depth of field of a photograph determines what is in focus while many elements are in the frame, we too must ensure our motivations are focused properly.

“Who Will Listen?” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Much is said in the Word of God about people’s refusal to listen to God’s warnings and the consequences of such a heedless attitude!  Christians are sternly warned to listen to God—are we?

Fighting Terrorism and ISIS–But How? is the title of a new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

The mass shootings in San Bernardino must be viewed as the latest terrorist attack in a whole series of never-ending atrocities. Even though ISIS did not claim direct responsibility, they applauded the carefully planned murders of 14 innocent victims as an heroic act. Western citizens and governments, including France, Great Britain and Germany, are prepared to  engage militarily in the war against ISIS, but they are also painfully aware that they cannot rely on America’s leadership. What does the Bible tell us about the immediate future?

A new German AufPostenStehen program was posted as well, covering the same topic.

“Simson und Delila,” is the title of this week’s new German sermon. Title in English: “Samson and Delilah.”

“The Rules of Christianity,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Christianity has rules, but very few people really know or understand them—much less, actually obey them!  The Bible reveals a fundamental key for us to use to obey the rules of Christianity.

“Blessings of Abraham,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Robb Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

We live in abundance because of a promise made thousands of years ago to one man. While most have no knowledge of God’s promise, God fulfilled what He said to Abraham, despite the actions of those who benefit so much from it. Even in darkness we are to live and shine to those around us, knowing that even greater promises lie ahead.

A ministerial SKYPE meeting was conducted this past Sunday. Among the things we discussed were baptism requests, speaking and writing assignments, the US Feast location for 2016 and other topics.

“Looking for a Strong Leader,” is the title of a new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

Focusing on the migrant crisis and ongoing terrorist attacks, people in the USA and in Europe are looking for a strong leader who will, “by force if necessary,” deal with “these devils who came to kill us.” According to the Bible, a strong leader will arise in Europe, but this will bring about events which many do not expect.

“Ist Gott eine körperlose Masse ohne Form und Gestalt?” is the title of this week’s new German sermon. Title in English: Is God a Bodiless Blob Without Form and Shape?

“Which Path?” the sermonette presented by Kalon Mitchell last Sabbath, is now posted. Here is a summary:

We are told many times in the Bible to stay on the right path. That requires us knowing which path that is. Our choices must be based on how God tells us how to live our lives.

“The Christian in a Political World,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

In light of real or feared terror attacks in Europe, the USA and the Middle East, how is a Christian to deal with this world’s politics? Should Christians participate in governmental elections? Should they financially support “their” political candidate for the highest office? Should they engage in war propaganda or participate in any way in the wars of their country? Are they to pray for the governing authorities, and if so, how and why? Should they even pray for the soon-coming return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the Kingdom of God here on earth, since they know that terrible events will have to occur first, which will cause much suffering and pain?

The Member Letter for November was mailed earlier this week. If you would like to be included in these monthly letters from the ministry, just send us your request.

“Coming… A Unified European Army!” is the title of our new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link.

Here is a summary:

For a long time, Europe has been dreaming of a mighty united army, capable of intervening in “trouble spots” and becoming an undefeatable military force. Now, in light of perceived Russian aggression, an unprecedented migrant crisis, and unparalleled terrorist attacks in Europe with ongoing real threats of future attacks, the realization of Europe’s desire for a powerful army and unified military action has drawn nearer than ever before. Also, voices in Germany for military involvement overseas are getting stronger. The Bible says that these are important steps towards the fulfillment of end-time prophecies.

“Der Christ in einer Politischen Welt,” is the title of this week’s new German sermon. The title in English: “A Christian in a Political World.”

“The Power of God,” last week’s sermonette presented by Michael Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Do we comprehend the simplest things we utilize in our daily lives, wondering perhaps to ourselves how these necessary tools are so vital in our lives, such as electricity and the advancements in technology?  Can we also comprehend the power of God?  Can we receive His power?

“Prophetic Consequences of Our Migrant Crisis,” last week’s sermon presented by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Why do we see such a great migrant crisis in Europe and elsewhere? Why will this crisis become even much bigger? Does sin have anything to do with it? How does God look at mass migrations? What is the future of Syria? How will all of this affect the USA, the UK and the Middle East? Will it lead to a powerful European army under a charismatic leader, bringing about the great tribulation?

A new member letter for November was written by Pastor Dave Harris and will be mailed early next week. In the letter, Mr. Harris discusses the importance of doing the Work of God.

“Did Joseph Build the Pyramids?” is the title of our new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link.

Here is a summary:

Republican Presidential candidate and retired neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson brought again attention to the hypothesis that Joseph might have built the Egyptian pyramids. He added that it is his belief that they were built to store grain. “Experts” dismissed this conclusion, citing contrary scientific evidence, but could it be that science and Dr. Carson’s concepts might harmonize, to a certain extent? In fact, this program shows that there IS evidence that Joseph might have been involved, together with Pharaoh Khufu or Cheops, with building one particular pyramid–the Cheops or Great Pyramid. In addition, there is evidence to show that Pharaoh Khufu was none other than the biblical Job.

A German AufPostenStehen program was also recorded and posted, discussing the same issues, titled “Haben Josef und Hiob die Cheops-Pyramide gebaut?” The title in English would be: “Did Joseph and Job Build the Cheops Pyramid?”

“Echte Freundschaft–wie kann es sie geben?” is the title of this week’s German sermon. The title in English: “True Friendship—Is It Possible?”

“The New Religion,” last week’s sermonette presented by Robb Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

We are exhorted to fulfill the requirements of Godly religion. Religion must be focused on the Will of God. As Christians with our minds opened, we are warned to remain unspotted from the world.

“Finding the Perfect Church,” last week’s sermon presented by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

As a Christian, how would you describe yourself? Would you say that you are perfect—right now? Or would you admit that there remains much to perfect?

On November 1, 2015, a Tech Team Meeting was conducted via SKYPE. Led by Eric Rank, various team members contributed ideas centered on improving our web presence—especially, how to publish our English and German video-taped sermons and sermonettes and our StandingWatch and AufPostenStehen programs in a more effective and viewer-friendly way.

This week, a new email campaign was begun featuring our booklet, “Heavens and Earth… Before and After the First Man!”

With the help of our graphic designer, Shelly Bruno, we sent four German booklets to our printer for printing. Upon completion, we will have all of our 17 German booklets printed. We are working on additional translations into German.

“What’s in Store for Totalitarian Turkey?” is the title of our newest StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

The current migrant crisis in Europe has set the stage for a temporarily friendly relationship between Germany and Turkey, with grave consequences for the future. Most people, especially in the USA and the UK, are totally ignorant about what the Bible prophesies in this regard and how they will be affected directly by these developments, culminating in nuclear warfare, defeat in war and captivity, and the worst time in human history. It is high time to wake up, as our personal survival is at stake. We are offering two free booklets, “Middle Eastern and African Nations in Bible Prophecy” and “Germany in Prophecy.”

 “Halloween–A Feast for the Devil?” is the title of another StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link, which had been published before. Here is a summary:

Halloween is dedicated to Satan the devil. Satanists celebrate it as one of Satan’s holidays. It is associated with the occult, with witches and paganism, and it is known as the festival of the dead. Trick-or-treat, masks and jack-o’-lantern are all ancient practices or symbols in connection with feared encounters with spirits of the dead, demons and damned souls. But some professing Christians argue that it is not wrong for them and their children to observe Halloween and participate in at least some of its practices. Does God agree?

We also re-published an older German AufPostenStehen program on the topic of Halloween, titled, “Halloween– Ein Fest für Dämonen? (in English,  “Halloween—a Festival for Demons?”)

“Kann Man Satan Sehen?” is the title of this week’s German sermon. As always with our German sermons, Video Production Manager Johanna Link inserted all Scriptural references. Title in English: “Can We See Satan?”

“The Alien Life,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Christians are to live as strangers and sojourners on the earth. They are to live in the world but to be separate from it? What does this actually mean?

“First Love,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:

When we talk about becoming converted Christians, we often express the experience as discovering our first love. The Bible is clear about the importance of hanging onto our first love, but how do we do that? What is the substance of our first love? If we have lost our first love, how can we return to it? When we have our first love, what do we need to do to nurture it? Our future in God’s Family depends on the answers!

“Prophetische Auswirkungen der Migrantenkrise Deutschlands,” is the title of this week’s German sermon. Title in English: “Prophetic Consequences of Germany’s Migrant Crisis”

“The Greatest,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Kalon Mitchell, is now posted. Here is a summary:

The greatest people in the world, the most brilliant minds, the most talented and the strongest, what do they have in common? The biggest buildings, the most amazing mechanics, the latest piece of technology, plays out to what end? We live in an age that values these types of things. But in the end what happens to all of this? Do we stop and ask ourselves the really important questions? What do we place our value in?

“Marriage Without a License?”, the sermon presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Today, many men and women are living together without being married. But is such an arrangement acceptable in God’s eyes? Or is this conduct equated in Scripture with fornication? How does a marriage begin? Did God create Adam and Eve as husband and wife? Is marriage a covenant which is preceded by engagement or betrothal? What about a wedding and a wedding supper? How about adultery and divorce? What connection is there between a physical marriage and the spiritual marriage between the Church of God as the bride and Jesus Christ as the bridegroom?

A new Member Letter reporting on our Feast sites in the United States and Germany was sent out this week—including a copy of our newest booklet, “Do You Know the Jesus of the Bible?” 

“Fighting for the Temple Mount — WHY?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

Stunning events are happening in the Middle East and in East Jerusalem, which have direct relevance to biblical prophecy. WHY are calls being heard from Palestinians, Arab nations and France to deploy an international force in East Jerusalem and at the Temple Mount? Why is the UN adopting a resolution condemning Israel for “illegal measures taken against the freedom of worship of Muslims to the Al-Aqsa Mosque,” which is situated on the Temple Mount? Why is it recommended that the Temple Mount should be closed to Jews? In this program, we show you the most recent developments and explain to you from the Bible WHY they are so important, in the light of Christ’s, Paul’s, John’s and Daniel’s end-time warnings pertaining to Jerusalem. We offer you our free booklet, “The Book of Zechariah–Prophecies for Today!”

Our Feast messages which were given in the USA and in Germany are now posted on our respective websites and on YouTube: www.eternalgod.org; http://www.aufpostenstehen.de/

“Ehe ohne Trauschein?” is the title of this week’s German sermon. The title of the German sermon in English would be: “Marriage Without License?”

A new Member Letter reporting on our Feast sites in the United States and Germany will be sent out next week. We will also include a copy of our newest booklet, “Do You Know the Jesus of the Bible?” Those attending the Feast have already received a copy.

“Germany’s Disastrous Migrant Crisis,” is the title of a new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

Europe and especially Germany are facing an unsolvable migrant crisis of unparalleled proportions in recent history, which has been caused by the situation in Syria. Both Russia and the USA are fighting for preeminence in Syria, but the Obama administration is clearly losing. Angela Merkel’s unquestioned leadership role is now under severe attack, and calls for her resignation from inside and outside her own party are becoming louder. Is a powerful German leader on the rise who might replace her? We are offering two free booklets, dealing with the subject at hand: “Middle Eastern and African Nations in Bible Prophecy” and “The Ten European Revivals of the Ancient Roman Empire.”

“Geistliches Wachstum in Gottes Kirche,” is the title of this Sabbath’s German sermon. It is dealing with growth in individual members and in the church as a collective body. Title in English: “Spiritual Growth in God’s Church.”

We will be posting our Feast messages which were given in the USA and in Germany on our respective websites. Quite a few have already been posted on the American and German YouTube pages; please have a look.

We are greatly pleased to announce the ordination of Kalon Mitchell to the ministry as an elder. The ordination took place in Ramona, California, during services on the Feast of Trumpets, September 14, 2015. The ordination was conducted by Evangelist Norbert Link and Elder Mike Link.

“Why the World WON’T End this Month!”  is the title of a new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

Some Christian groups and ministers believe and teach that the world will end in September of 2015. They believe that this will be brought about by a “blood moon”— allegedly the fourth consecutive lunar eclipse since April 2014 – being part of a “tetrad.” Others preach that the great tribulation starts in September of 2015, following seven years since September 11, 2001. Some claim that this was shown to them through godly revelations or near-death experiences.

We will prove to you in this program why all of this is nonsense, and that the Bible dogmatically declares that the end of the world will NOT occur in September of 2015. Don’t be deceived and fooled by ridiculous and ignorant teachings, but prove all things from the Holy Scriptures, and only hold on to what is correct. We are offering you our free booklet, “Biblical Prophecy— From Now Until Forever.”

“Teach Us to Pray,” is the title of a new Global Trailer presented by Pastor Brian Gale. Here is a summary:

It is common in Protestant churches to pray to Jesus Christ, while in the Catholic Church, Mary and various saints are also addressed in prayers. There is, indeed, much confusion regarding how to pray and to whom one should pray, but what is the Biblical teaching on this important subject?

“Krankenheilung und Gottes Wohlgefallen,” is the title of this week’s German sermon. Title in English: “Healing from Sickness and God’s Delight.” It uses material from the last two Q&A’s, discussing 1 John 3:22.

“Whole Heart,” the morning sermonette for the Feast of Trumpets which was presented by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:

The conversion of a Christian must be complete. If we have desires that compete for our attention we put ourselves in danger of falling away. Our whole heart must be dedicated to converting our lives and overcoming sin through the Sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

“The Law Is Setting Us Free,” the morning sermon for the Feast of Trumpets which was present by Robb Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:

The laws of man have increasingly superseded the laws of God in recent years.  Belief in God is considered archaic and superstitious.  This attitude has plagued the nation of Israel throughout their history.  Time after time it wasn’t freedom, but slavery, that Israel sought as they gave up on God’s laws and followed after Idolatry.  We must be wary not to follow the human reasoning that preaches freedom, but it actuality only results in slavery.

“Three Times a Year,” the afternoon Offertory for the Feast of Trumpets which was presented by Norbert Link, in now posted. Here is a summary:

Why are we to appear before God three times a year, “at the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles”? What is meant by this term, since we are commanded to attend every Holy Day service, in addition to weekly Sabbath services? How are we to appear, and where? Why does God command to give an offering on each Holy Day? Does He need our money?

“Religious Deception in God’s Church,” the afternoon sermon for the Feast of Trumpets which was presented by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

The Feast of Trumpets symbolizes the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The Bible prophesies that in the end time, just prior to His Return, there will be massive religious deception and confusion. How can we protect ourselves against false prophets and religious teachers, as well as wrong doctrines? How can we prevent from falling away from God’s Truth?

As a reminder, here are the dates for the Fall Holy Days:

September 23—Day of Atonement
September 28 through October 4—Feast of Tabernacles
October 5—Last Great Day