July 2015

Restoring Original Christianity—for Today!

Christian Biblical Church of God

Post Office Box 1442
Hollister, California 95024-1442
(831)-637-1875

Fred R. Coulter,
Minister

- Transcript

July 21, 2015

Dear Brethren,

"Woe to those who call evil good and good evil" (Isa. 5:20).

This nation will soon experience what life was like for Lot and his family living in ancient Sodom. Why? Because on June 26, by a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court of the United States all but destroyed the Constitution by ruling that same-sex "marriage" is a "right" granted under the Fourteenth Amendment! The majority of five claimed that the "equal protection clause" makes all such marriages equal to traditional marriages.

Without a doubt, they created a so-called "right" right out of thin air!

However, no such language or "right" exists in the Constitution or any of the founding documents of the United States of America. Thus, these justices made a lawless political and emotional judgment rather than interpret the laws of the land, which is their sworn duty. Indeed, what they have done only adds to the list of lawless decisions that defy the Constitution and the Word of God—which, by the way, is never mentioned in their written opinions.

The ruling is clearly one of the most significant legal decisions in the history of this nation, one that will have far-reaching effects at every level of society. Moreover, this decision was a near fatal blow to the Constitution and the rule of law in America, a nation supposedly "under God." Most importantly, this ruling is a repudiation of God and His laws of marriage and sexual morality. In effect, the decision sanctions willful rebellion and defiance against God.

What follows are quotes from the majority decision and the four dissenting justices of the Supreme Court.

Justice Kennedy: Reflecting the majority opinion, Kennedy writes, "The petitioners in these cases seek to find that [aforementioned] liberty by marrying someone of the same sex and having their marriages deemed lawful on the same terms and conditions as marriages between persons of the opposite sex…. They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right." Concurring with Kennedy were Justices Sotomayor, Ginsburg, Kagan and Breyer.

In defiance against God and the Constitution, this five-person majority has officially plunged America to the status of Sodom and Gomorrah—which will only hasten God's judgment against this nation. God declares in His Word, "Woe to those who decree unrighteous edicts, and to those who issue oppressive decrees, to turn aside the needy from judgment…" (Isa. 10:1-2). Indeed, "[J]ustice is driven backward, and righteousness stands afar off; for truth has fallen in the street…" (Isa. 59:14).

This majority has done exactly what God instructs judges not to do. "It is not good to favor the person of the wicked, nor to overthrow the righteous in judgment" (Prov. 18:5). And again, "You shall do no unrighteousness in judgment" (Lev. 19:15).

This perverse majority decision reflects America's growing tolerance and acceptance of non-traditional lifestyles. Indeed, sexual immorality and lawlessness have become deeply engrained in the thinking and actions of an increasing percentage of the population. There is no question that the ruling is an indication that an era of unbounded lawlessness has come upon us, which will irreparably shred the fabric of society.

We can, however, be thankful for the four judges who opposed the ruling. Their actions demonstrate that there are still those in the judiciary system who will honor the Constitution. Thus, the four opposing justices—using the strongest language possible—each wrote his own dissenting opinion. As you will see, they fully realize the magnitude of the effects this decision will have over time on the rule of constitutional law in America. Excerpts from these four justices' written opinions follows (bold emphasis added):

Chief Justice Roberts writes in his dissent: "But this Court is not a legislature…. Under the Constitution, judges have power to say what the law is, not what it should be. The people who ratified the Constitution authorized courts to exercise 'neither force nor will but merely judgment.'… The majority's decision is an act of will, not legal judgment. The right it announces has no basis in the Constitution or this Court's precedent…. The majority today neglects that restrained conception of the judicial role. It seizes for itself a question the Constitution leaves to the people…. And it answers that question based not on neutral principles of constitutional law, but on its own understanding of what freedom is and must become. I have no choice but to dissent."

Justice Scalia writes, "The opinion in these cases is the furthest extension in fact—and the furthest extension one can even imagine—of the Court's claimed power to create 'liberties' that the Constitution and its Amendments neglect to mention. This practice of constitutional revision by an unelected committee of nine, always accompanied (as it is today) by extravagant praise of liberty, robs the People of the most important liberty they asserted in the Declaration of Independence and won in the Revolution of 1776: the freedom to govern themselves…. But the Court ends this debate, in an opinion lacking even a thin veneer of law…. This is a naked judicial claim to legislative—indeed, super-legislative—power; a claim fundamentally at odds with our system of government…. They [the five majority justices] are certain that the People ratified the Fourteenth Amendment to bestow on them the power to remove questions from the democratic process when that is called for by their 'reasoned judgment.' These Justices know that limiting marriage to one man and one woman is contrary to reason; they know that an institution as old as government itself, and accepted by every nation in history until 15 years ago, cannot possibly be supported by anything other than ignorance or bigotry. And they are willing to say that any citizen who does not agree with that, who adheres to what was, until 15 years ago, the unanimous judgment of all generations and all societies, stands against the Constitution."

Justice Thomas writes, "The majority's inversion of the original meaning of liberty will likely cause collateral damage to other aspects of our constitutional order that protect liberty…. Aside from undermining the political processes that protect our liberty, the majority's decision threatens the religious liberty our Nation has long sought to protect…. It appears all but inevitable that the two [perspectives on marriage] will come into conflict, particularly as individuals and churches are confronted with demands to participate in and endorse civil marriages between same-sex couples…. Our Constitution—like the Declaration of Independence before it—was predicated on a simple truth: One's liberty, not to mention one's dignity, was something to be shielded from—not provided by—the State. Today's decision casts that truth aside."

Justice Alito writes, "To prevent five unelected Justices from imposing their personal vision of liberty upon the American people, the Court has held that 'liberty' under the Due Process Clause should be understood to protect only those rights that are 'deeply rooted in this Nation's history and tradition.' And it is beyond dispute that the right to same-sex marriage is not among those rights…. For today's majority, it does not matter that the right to same-sex marriage lacks deep roots or even that it is contrary to long-established tradition. The Justices in the majority claim the authority to confer constitutional protection upon that right simply because they believe that it is fundamental….Today's decision usurps the constitutional right of the people to decide whether to keep or alter the traditional understanding of marriage. The decision will also have other important consequences.

"It will be used to vilify Americans who are unwilling to assent to the new orthodoxy. In the course of its opinion, the majority compares traditional marriage laws to laws that denied equal treatment for African-Americans and women. E.g., ante, at 11–13. The implications of this analogy will be exploited by those who are determined to stamp out every vestige of dissent…. I assume that those who cling to old beliefs will be able to whisper their thoughts in the recesses of their homes, but if they repeat those views in public, they will risk being labeled as bigots and treated as such by governments, employers, and schools…. Today's decision will also have a fundamental effect on this Court and its ability to uphold the rule of law. If a bare majority of Justices can invent a new right and impose that right on the rest of the country, the only real limit on what future majorities will be able to do is their own sense of what those with political power and cultural influence are willing to tolerate…. Today's decision shows that decades of attempts to restrain this Court's abuse of its authority have failed…. What it evidences is the deep and perhaps irremediable [irreversible] corruption of our legal culture's conception of constitutional interpretation" (citations taken from the United States Supreme Court's published Majority and Dissenting opinions concerningOBERGEFELL v. HODGES, June 26, 2015).

These four dissenting justices have answered most powerfully, but how many will listen. It is likely that there will be a prolonged struggle between those who celebrate this decision and those who denounce it. Perhaps this new conflict will follow a similar path as the decades-long battle over abortion. Only time will tell.

The Intimidation of "Gay Power"

As Justice Alito wrote, "It [this decision] will be used to vilify Americans who are unwilling to assent to the new orthodoxy." In an already lawless society, this ruling will foster more lawlessness. It is exactly as Jesus prophesied: "And then shall many be led into sin, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another…. And because lawlessness shall be multiplied, the love of many shall grow cold" (Matt. 24:10, 12).

In fact, the decision has already resulted in hatred and bias against Christianity. Hiding behind so-called "hate crime laws," individuals and government agencies have begun using vigilante-style tactics against people who profess Christianity and refuse to have anything to do with same sex "marriages."

Why are things like this happening? It is because the wicked hate God. And when the wicked take over the reins of government, they dedicate themselves to the suppression of any form of acknowledgement of God—especially the true God of the Bible. This has been going on systematically for decades!

What we are witnessing is another step in the evolution of evil, which takes place when any society rejects God. This has happened in recurring cycles down through history—from before the Flood to our time—and will continue until Christ returns. The apostle Paul writes of the lawless behavior that occurs when civilizations plunge into corruption, degradation, sexual immorality, and defiance toward God: "Indeed, the wrath of God is revealed from heaven upon all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness; because that which may be known of God is manifest among them, for God has manifested it to them; for the invisible things of Him are perceived from the creation of the world, being understood by the things that were made—both His eternal power and Godhead—so that they are without excuse.

"Because when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were thankful; but they became vain in their own reasonings, and their foolish hearts were darkened. While professing themselves to be the wise ones, they became fools and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into the likeness of an image of corruptible man, and of birds, and four-footed creatures, and creeping things.

"For this cause, God also abandoned them to uncleanness through the lusts of their hearts, to disgrace their own bodies between themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie; and they worshiped and served the created thing more than the One Who is Creator, Who is blessed into the ages. Amen.

"For this cause, God abandoned them to disgraceful passions; for even their women changed the natural use of sex into that which is contrary to nature; and in the same manner also the men, having left the natural use of sex with the woman, were inflamed in their lustful passions toward one another—men with men shamelessly committing lewd acts, and receiving back within themselves a fitting penalty for their error.

"And in exact proportion as they did not consent to have God in their knowledge, God abandoned them to a reprobate mind, to practice those things that are immoral; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, malice; full of envy, murder, strife, guile, evil dispositions; whisperers, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things and practices; disobedient to parents, void of understanding, covenant-breakers, without natural affection, implacable and unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who commit such things are worthy of death, not only practice these things themselves, but also approve of those who commit them" (Rom. 1:18-32).

Today, this description aptly fits many countries and cities around the world—and it is increasingly true in most of the nations of Western civilization. Perhaps one of the most lawless cities in America is San Francisco. Recently, the murder of a 32-year-old woman by an illegal alien with a long criminal record has drawn worldwide attention. However, this incident is only a speck on the tip of the iceberg of lawlessness and sexual immorality that rules this city from top to bottom. The city is truly the Sodom of California.

In 1987, the militant "Gay Agenda" or "Gay Power" movement was started from San Francisco and other centers of homosexuality. Clearly, the movement has conquered America as evidenced by the recent Supreme Court decision—"same-sex marriage" legal in all 50 states.

The question is: How did this happen to a so-called Christian nation where over 70 percent of the population professes belief in God? In his book The Marketing of Evil, David Kupelian reveals the evil cunning behind the decades-long campaign throughout society to undermine and subvert godly morality—especially sexual morality—and to make perverse sexual practices accepted as normal. Kupelian writes: "The plain truth is that within the space of our lifetime, much of what Americans once almost universally abhorred has been packaged, perfumed, gift-wrapped, and sold to us as though it had great value. By skillfully playing on our deeply felt national values of fairness, generosity, and tolerance, these marketers have persuaded us to embrace as enlightened and noble that which all previous generations since America's founding regarded as grossly self-destructive—in a word, evil" (inside front of jacket).

In their book When the Wicked Seize a City, authors Chuck and Donna Mcllhenny and Frank York give us insight into how, through the late 1970s until the late 1980s, an unstoppable "gay revolution" in San Francisco seized control of the city. From there, with a multitude of backers in other cities around the nation, they began their political, cultural, anti-religious, anti-God revolution.

Chuck reveals what he calls the Revolution's "Statement of Faith" agenda to conquer American society and make homosexuality broadly acceptable. It is a homosexual declaration of war against God, government, society, family and children. You may be shocked when you read the "agenda" they set nearly 30 years ago to literally take over America. Below are excerpts from the "Gay Rights Power Agenda"—a sort of gay "Statement of Faith" and call to war. It was first published in February 15-21, 1987, in Gay Community News. When you read this, you will see that what the Supreme Court did on June 26 reflects a near total victory for the gay movement. Here is their battle plan to be waged at all levels of American society. WARNING—some of its language is shocking.

We shall … [seduce] your sons … in your schools, in your dormitories, in your gymnasiums, in your locker rooms, in your sports arenas, in your seminaries, in your youth groups, in your movie theater bathrooms … [and] in your houses of Congress…. Your sons shall become our minions and do our bidding. They will be recast in our image.

All laws banning homosexual activity will be revoked. Instead, legislation shall be passed which engenders love between men.

All homosexuals must stand together as brothers, must be united artistically, philosophically, socially, politically and financially. We will triumph only when we present a common face to the vicious heterosexual enemy.

We will unmask the powerful homosexuals who masquerade as heterosexuals. You will be shocked and frightened when you find that your presidents and their sons, your industrialists, your senators, your mayors, your generals, your athletes, your film stars, your television personalities, your civic leaders, and your priests are not the safe, familiar bourgeois, heterosexual figures you assumed them to be. We are everywhere; we have infiltrated your ranks. Be careful when you speak of homosexuals because we are always among you….

The family unit—spawning ground of lies, betrayals, mediocrity, hypocrisy and violence—will be abolished. The family unit, which only dampens imagination and curbs free will, must be eliminated….

All churches that condemn us will be closed….

We shall rewrite history, history filled and debased with your heterosexual lies and distortions. We shall portray the homosexuality of the great leaders and thinkers who shaped the world.

We shall be victorious because we are fueled with the ferocious bitterness of the oppressed who have been forced to play seemingly bit parts in our dumb heterosexual shows throughout the ages. We too are capable of firing guns and manning barricades of the ultimate revolution (pp. 212-214, bold emphasis added).

Proponents of gay rights typically downplay these agenda points as being intentionally melodramatic and hyperbolic. But the fact is, these perverted goals are being accomplished!

The prophet Isaiah foretold what happens when the wicked control the reins of power in government and religion. His words are universal and apply to any time, to any person, community, city, nation—and even to the whole world: "Woe to those who draw iniquity with cords of vanity, and sin with cart ropes; who say, 'Let Him hurry and hasten His work, so that we may see it; and let the purpose of the Holy One of Israel draw near and come, so that we may know! [The atheists' defiance of God.]'

"Woe to those who call evil good and good evil; who put darkness for light and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!

"Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!

"Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink; who justify the wicked for a bribe, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him! Therefore, as the fire devours the stubble and the flame burns up the chaff, their root shall be like rottenness, and their blossoms shall go up like dust because they have cast away the law of the LORD of hosts, and despised the Word of the Holy One of Israel. Therefore, the anger of the LORD is kindled against His people, and He has stretched out His hand against them…" (Isa. 5:18-25).

God is telling us that He will yet bring more correction and punishment upon America, for His hand is still "stretched out" against our nation.

The Significance of June 26

On The Calculated Hebrew Calendar

The Supreme Court's momentous decision granting legalization of same-sex "marriage" in all fifty states was published on June 26, 2015. Since we are modern-day Israel, we need to correlate June 26 to God's sacred Calculated Hebrew Calendar. When we do so, we find that June 26 corresponds to the 9th day of the 4th month. Historically, this day is highly significant! Jeremiah records this for us: "And it came to pass when Jerusalem was taken, in the ninth year of Zedekiah king of Judah, in the tenth month, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and all his army came against Jerusalem. And they besieged it. In the eleventh year of Zedekiah, in the fourth month, the ninth day of the month, a breach was made into the city" (Jer. 39:1-2). This was the final assault to capture Jerusalem. The Babylonians broke through the wall and stormed into the city: "And all the rulers of the king of Babylon came in and sat in the Middle Gate: Nergal-Sharezer, Samgar-Nebo, Sarsechim, the chief of the officers, Nergal-Sharezer, chief soothsayer, and all the rest of the rulers of the king of Babylon" (verse 3).

After two previous invasions spanning over 20 years—resulting in the exile of countless Jews to Babylon—this third invasion was the final blow. The city was captured and thousands of additional Jews were exiled. Then, 29 days later, on the 9th and 10th of Ab, the 5th month, the Babylonians burned the Temple and city to the ground, exactly as God had foretold.

What can we glean today from this biblical account? While the same-sex "marriage" decision of the Supreme Court does not represent the complete destruction of this nation—as did the breach in Jerusalem's wall for Judah—it was a near death blow to the Constitution, and will only further drive God out of public life in America. At the very least, this decision signals that divine judgments against the nation are at hand.

What Does the Ruling Mean for Professing Christians? The legal ramifications of this decision will no doubt result in targeted persecution for mainstream Christians—including true Christians. However, that does not mean we need to draw back from preaching the Gospel. It is increasingly clear that many professing Christians will choose to worship God in the privacy of their homes rather than face such persecution.

Indeed, we are ready for them with our Web sites—Church at Home; CBCG; A Faithful Version. As you will see in our Semiannual Web Site Report, we are already experiencing a marked increase in the number of people using our sites. Requests for books and literature are also up. God always uses various events to get people's attention; without a doubt, the same-sex "marriage" ruling will generate a huge response among those seeking spiritual answers.

As emphasized in the message "Grow in Grace and Knowledge," we need to make sure we are diligently studying and praying every day. This is the only way to remain close to God the Father and Jesus Christ and not be caught off guard by world events.

Brethren, as always, we thank you for your prayers and your love for us. Likewise, we pray for you daily—for God to watch over you, protect you, heal and comfort you, and bless you in all things. Thank you for your tithes and offerings—so that all of us, together, may continue to serve the brethren and preach the Gospel. May God the Father's and Jesus Christ's blessings be upon you in everything.

With love in Christ Jesus,

Fred R. Coulter
FRC

P.S.: Please see the last page of this letter for additions to the Destin, Fla., Feast information.

Recent Letters From the Brethren

Dear Fred: Thank you for your answer. It was a real eye-opener. I stopped watching Mr. Flurry some time ago. Mr. David Pack's program is no longer on TV, but I do receive his magazine Real Truth. I really, really appreciate your ministry. I have come to the point where I can hardly watch regular TV ministry programs because of all the product selling and motivational speeches passing as Bible teaching. Thank you and God bless.—V.P., Michigan

Dear CBCG: Thank you for all your labor in providing materials by which we can grow. Also a big "thank you" for the Christian Passover book. I have read it through twice and have learned much from it. May God continue to richly bless you.—S.W., Canada

Dear Church at Home: Thank you, Mr. Coulter! I tried the COGs of today, I tried ignoring the Word, I tried filtering my way into a Sunday church, and I engaged in sin beyond what I want to admit. I so desperately wanted a group with which to belong and fellowship….

After much turmoil and depression (even from childhood), I believe God is calling me back. My father, who attended WCG, has filled his four children with much confusion. He now believes that the laws are done away with and that ALL will be saved no matter what you do or when you do it. He even believes the Sabbath has been done away with.

However, God led me back to your Web site—and through this site, Church at Home, your translated Bible, and other writings, God is reopening my eyes. I hope and pray that I have the strength to stand firm in these terrible times. Physically speaking, I am truly alone in this endeavor. You seem sincere and almost desperate to get the Word out through Church at Home. Yet, you do not pretend to know "when" the "time" will come. You are preparing those who will listen to be aware of the signs. While I would still love a group to worship and study with, I thank you for Church at Home and the CBCGsite. Your message is touching people, and it is being used by God to help me (and, I am sure, many others) when everyone I thought I could trust has turned against God's laws. My best to you!—S.F., Virginia

Dear Church at Home: Great site and I enjoy your videos and mp3s. I'll be coming here often. I do church at home and this site helps a lot. Keep up the good work!—Texas

Dear CBCG: Thank you very much for this site and thank you for all that you do and will continue to do. I am sure of this!—D.O., Utah

Dear Fred: I wanted to say "thank you" for educating me and helping me with so many questions I've had about the Bible. It has helped me find real joy in my life. I'm forever grateful from the bottom of my heart that God has led me to your site.—H.L., Vermont

Dear Fred: I'm going through the series on the Passover and NTBMO. I would like to request the Harmony of the Gospels, please. This has been such an interesting topic. Thank you so much for your ministry. May God continue to bless it, as it is a blessing to us! Thank you!—L.J., Arizona

Dear CBCG: Thank you for all the tapes, books and study material you have continued to send me. I would like to request The Keys to Answered Prayer and the series on Hebrews. My heartfelt thanks to you for all the work you are doing in God's work. Sincerely—D.M., Ohio

Dear Fred: I have attended the only local sabbatarian congregation in my area, and while they seem correct in their worship of God, something in me is causing me to be reluctant to join. I am a frequent visitor to your Internet sites and use your teaching as a guide to help in building my knowledge of Christ. My question is, Am I just being lazy? Am I being too critical about their teaching, should I compromise about the things they teach (that I know are wrong) and just look the other way? What I am asking is—is it okay to worship at home?—P.E., Florida

Answer: No, you are not being lazy. Never compromise the truth. It is good to worship at home.

Dear Fred: I want you to know I am so grateful for your Bible. It explains so much. I can't get enough. May God bless you all your days.—S.S., Texas

Dear Fred: I just listened to the video of March 28 on the Passover. It said if you did not have the series on Hebrews to write for it, so I am writing for the Hebrews series. May God continue to bless this site always. In Jesus' name.—V.S., Connecticut

Dear Church at Home: My spirit is being renewed thanks to your plain truth and honesty. I knew I sensed something wrong but couldn't put my finger on it until I listened to your sermons on church government. In my 29 years of attending three major corporate churches of God, there mounted up many things that caused me to wonder—and even hurt me or others. I went in search of the truth again and to learn more about who you are and why Church at Home and CBCG. Now I know! I pray God continues to richly bless you for the work He has been able to do through you. Your sermons and materials online have helped me and encouraged me. I even felt the sparkle of God's Spirit a little again. Thanks again for your help. I'm struggling to hang on here.—T.K., South Carolina

Dear Fred: Thanks for all the ways you help us find the truth in God's Word. Truth is what the world is truly lacking today! [We] pray for you and Dolores and all our other brethren to stay in good health and to be found faithful at Christ's coming. Church at Home and The Holy Bible in its Original Order have truly blessed our lives. We have read all the books and information that we have received from CBCG. We hunger and thirst for the righteousness of God and He just keeps filling us. We have been Sabbath-keepers for eight years now since we began worship at home. I did not find the Church at Home siteuntil September of 2013. We have learned even more truth since then. Though we have never personally met you, we feel as though we have by being a part of Sabbath services via the Internet and the books God has inspired you to write. We are so grateful to you for all your time and effort that you have put forth to bring us God's truth. With sincere appreciation and love.—B.L., Georgia

Dear Church at Home: I would like to request a copy of A Harmony of the Gospels. I am a serious student of the Word of God and a former member of the Worldwide Church of God. I now lead an independent ministry … that teaches and keeps the commandments of God and holds the testimony of Jesus Christ. I truly admire the teaching and preaching ministry of brother Fred Coulter. He is really helpful to me in my ministry. Moreover, I believe that his scholarship is solid. May the Lord continue to mightily use him in these last days. Blessings to all of you in your great ministry of Church At Home. Your brother in Christ.—G.P., Florida

Dear CBCG: I was looking for help on what I need to help me study the Bible. I ran across your site. Oh, so much information. Very big help. So, please, may I get a copy of your Baptism Series? Thank You.—S.K., Tennessee

Dear Fred: I bought a copy of the "Original Order" Bible and I think I'm going to like it pretty well. I live near Greenville, SC, which is the capital city of the Bible Belt, what with Bob Jones University here and the Southern Baptist Convention. I'm sick of Baptist theology—might as well be Catholic. I like the beliefs section, especially where it says under Nature of Man that we possess no inherent immortality. That one concept removes all the mystery from the Word of God. So, I like you people. Help me get in touch with some folks around here, if that is possible. Thanks for being here for me. Don't feel alone anymore.—T.C., South Carolina

Dear Fred: Hi, I received my new Bible today. It is magnificent and a piece of art. My sincere thanks to all who made this publication possible. Kindest regards.—J.B., Texas

Dear Fred: Shalom. I was doing some searching and found your Bible with the books in the original order. I have seen only one other, The Hebraic Roots Bible, with the books in the original order. I have ordered one of yours. I do not know what your translation is, but I look forward to the comparison. Blessings.—J.H., South Carolina

Hi Fred. Your sermon on being "Born Again" is undoubtedly the very best I have ever heard and one of the very best of your sermons. I might add that it is very timely as well. With all of the religious butchery going on in the world and with so much counterfeit Christianity in the world, today we need all the encouragement we can get. This sermon certainly accomplishes just that. I love you and Dolores very much and I pray daily that God will continue to bless, protect, and inspire you. With much love in Christ Jesus.—G.R., Georgia

Dear CBCG: I wish to thank you for the blessings of your work.—R.O., Texas

Dear Fred: On the seventh day after [receiving] the anointed cloth, I was completely healed. It was just like the sermon, washing in the Jordan River seven times. God is so amazing. I thank you for all that you have done and all your prayers. Thank you for all of your sermons, especially the one on "What to do to Overcome Difficult Sins." I can't wait to meet you in person and also to see God in person at the resurrection. I've been washed in the water of the Word. It's God's victory through us by way of His Holy Spirit. Wait until the world gets wind of this. We are truly strengthened through trials and that's why I thank God for His blessings and His curses. With very, very warm regards.—R.G., California

Dear Fred: First, thank you. I did get the study materials. It's a very powerful message. It's nice to be able to sit and read the message. I say this as reading on a computer screen does get hard on my eyes with time. I was raised Lutheran, going to parochial school second to seventh grade. The more I studied the more questions I had—and no real answers. I remember one time (in forth grade) asking why we didn't keep the Sabbath and was told Sunday was the new name today. Thank you also for making the "Faithful Version" available online. I found it helpful when listening to sermons to be able to find the verse to keep up with the sermon. I have the "Faithful Version" on the Kindle and in paperback.—E.G., California

Dear Fred: We appreciated being able to eat together and talk to and meet more brethren. In all my experience in the Church, which is close to 50 years, I have never experienced the level of love as was present at Florence, Kentucky. Your faithfulness is really appreciated. I felt that being with everyone last weekend was such a privilege, and I was honored to know that our Creator made it possible. I don't know how I could have ever been so blessed to find the real God, but I am so very thankful to have come through all the church wars—and life in general. I still have my guard up because I know only too well that Satan would love to destroy any of us, if he could. But I will never give up!!! Thank you again; love—E.D., Kentucky

Dear Fred: Since leaving SDA-ism 8-9 years ago, I have attended many Sabbath churches (especially when I drove). About 3 or 4 years ago, I started attending several COGs. I was told not to talk to others about other COG writers. Anyway, I had to tell the preacher that I am 66 and I am not going to be told what to read. I have listened to you numerous times since I last saw you; I have been watching many, many videos these last several Sabbaths since I quit attending the LCG. I have learned more than I ever did before. I just learned about the real Peter in Rome; I never heard that before. Also, your many other teachings have helped me. I started finally understanding the Holy Days and started observing them with this past Days of Unleavened Bread. Though I understood their meaning, I just wasn't convicted until recently. I look forward to observing and learning of them now. I still have questions about the British/Israel belief, but you sent me a book that explains it way more clearly than the booklets that I have received from other COGs.—G.H., Florida

Dear Fred: It is my opinion that you are in a great position to start up a Bible Study Home School Program online. You have all the sermons and materials needed to accomplish this. You can start out with the Bible Study programs and then branch out like Liberty U and ACE do. All these other programs do not teach the entire truth—and that would be the difference. All of the CBCG member families, with and without children, would be a part of this. Eventually, all the true Churches of God would follow suit and use this site. At the beginning of this country, the public school system was started specifically to teach the Bible—and now they have all but banned it from the schools. It could start out small, a mustard seed, and grow into something wonderful. It would all be geared to giving glory to God. Just a thought.—W.K., Nevada

Dear Fred: I just wanted to comment on the new book America & Britain by Philip Neal—very well done, very interesting, it sure complements Mr. [Steven] Collins' books on the subject. As well, his book on Judaism was fantastic—what an eye opener. Thank you as well for the "Original Order" Bible and all your other books, etc. They are all priceless. I'm sure God is actively guiding and directing all of you at CBCG! So nice to have met Roger and Emy, too. Our love and prayers for you and the brethren! Thank you for everything!—R. S., Canada

Dear CBCG: Just wanted to say "thank you" for this Web site [CBCG.org] and the very thought-provoking sermons and articles—especially the sermon on overcoming difficult sins. Most appreciated.—B.W., Georgia

Dear CBCG: Hello, I'm so excited that I found your Web site—not by chance, but by God's directional hand. My son, Marc, sent me Part II of Killing Jesus. I had no interest in viewing Part II because Bill [O'Reilly] did not include the most important part of the beginning of Jesus' ministry. That's when I did some searching and clicked on the CBCG's site. I listened to Mr. Fred Coulter's talk and was so happy to see his intense study on the life of Jesus—birth, Passion, death, resurrection. And, my pastor from Berean Bible Church in Philadelphia told me he believed, like Mr. Coulter, that Jesus was crucified on Wednesday. So, I believe I've hit on an important and truthful ministry. Thanks! I'd like to request a free copy of The Appointed Times of Jesus the Messiah. I certainly believe that the Old Testament is a foreshadow of things to come. God bless your ministry!—T.S., Pennsylvania

Dear CBCG: I want to thank you for this Web site. I have been in the Church of God all of my life—born into the Church in 1957 while it was still Radio Church of God. I have been searching for many years for answers to questions about the Jubilee and Land Sabbaths. I attended COGE, LCG and UCG. And I have checked out so many splinter groups that I have lost count. None have stayed true to God; all have watered down the truth—or, in some cases, did away with it and put it their own version. It is nice to at last find a church that is still teaching the truth as given by Christ to the apostles. Thank you!—R.J., Florida

Dear Fred: I totally respect you and seriously appreciate you for your awesome, bold and plain teaching of God's Word. I love your apparently sincere, tender heart for God. I have that, too. God has been a lifesaver through you just by the sermons on your Web site! I have your Bible and lots of your sermons. I do know how to study my Bible, and that's why I appreciate a man who's willing to be humble and loving before Almighty God. Other pastors don't seem to care about or love some of the brethren. I did receive and I am enjoying the care package. I'm still listening to the sermons over and over, each one until I think I've got it. I'm listening to you teach right now. You seem to be a respectable elder in Christ who I can trust. Of course, I look to God now, as you teach. That's why it's awesome!—T.K., South Carolina

Dear Fred: In late January of this year, I lost my beloved husband to cancer after several years of marriage. It has been tremendously hard (I am left with our two little daughters of 1.5 and 4). He was extremely faithful to the end, so in that sense I am comforted and convinced he will be part of the resurrected saints. I have had so much comfort and encouragement from your sermon "God's comfort." When my husband was sent home to die, we listened to this sermon together for the first time and we really appreciated it. I think I have listened to it about 8 times since he passed away. I feel much closer to God since I lost my husband, and part of what has been helping me are your sermons and the realization that I need to stay very close to God. I actually feel God's comfort, which I am so grateful for.

Another series that has really been helpful is "God's blessings." I just finished listening to part 3. You speak as if you know what I am going though from a human perspective. I know what is important for the rest of my life and use the Scriptures to lift me up, give me hope, and help me trust in God—which is what I so much need at the moment. I just want to thank you for helping me through the difficult times with your encouraging words and genuine enthusiasm for God's Word and the coming Kingdom of God. May God bless you to be able to continue as His minister for a long time to come. Kind regards.—M.M., England

Dear Mr. Fred Coulter: I became a member of the Worldwide Church of God, Pasadena, Calif., in 1962. Your Web site is the best that I have ever seen. Meticulously done. I have been using your site for the past two months. What a blessing you have been to me. The teachings are sound and I read from the Faithful Version—better than the KJV or NKJV. Please, Mr. Coulter, my I kindly be placed on your mailing list. Most of my Christian life has been among the churches of God, so I am familiar with your biblical teachings. Traditional Christianity does not preach the Bible! Your videos and audios are excellent. How you ever received such a vast knowledge of the Bible is mindboggling. I've been a serious student of the Bible for over 55 years. I have never been so blessed as you have made me. Thank you!—R.B., Philippines

Dear Church at Home: Thank you for the blessed material on your site. I now understand this truth after many years—that tomorrow is the Sabbath. So I am observing it with a new joy. If you have a booklet or paper available [about the Sabbath], I would be more than pleased to buy it. I feel so blessed with this important truth. I thank God. Sincerely—P.E., Australia

Dear Mr. Coulter and Staff: Herbert W. Armstrong was called an Ambassador for world peace. I consider you, Mr. Coulter, an Ambassador for "church at home." If there is no peace in the home, there will be no world peace. It must begin in the home with teaching the Bible in a way that is biblically sound. It began in the Book of Acts with the Church of God. The Bereans did not have the New Testament, only the Old Testament. The Faithful Version is the one I now use. The Christian world today is in such a mess—especially in following the traditions of men. They despise the word Sabbath and the Ten Commandments. But at the end of this age, all will be judged. Shalom, Mr. Coulter, and your dedicated staff.—R.B., Philippines

Dear Fred: I am continually amazed every day by how much I am learning. Thank you so much for helping me prepare for the end times. May God bless you and the work. Love—L.J.

Dear Fred: Thank you, Mr. Coulter, for your comments. Being a Catholic, I know what Roman Catholics believe. This is a false religion among the many false religions of the world. This is not a Protestant denomination that follows the traditions of men. The Catholics have 1.25 billion souls on the wide road of destruction—unless they repent, believe God and not the Pope. There is a big difference between a Catholic and a Christian. Christians, for the most part, believe the Bible. Catholics believe the Pope. I have just finished the 19 sermons on "One World Religion." Excellent! Yours truly—R.B.

Dear Fred: Regarding Independence Day, we have no equivalent annual holiday [in England]. Some people celebrate Trafalgar Day, when Nelson defeated Napoleon's navy in 1805. This year we're celebrating the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215. I've felt for a long time that we should have an annual holiday similar to your "Thanksgiving"—but it's not going to happen because we're such an ungrateful nation, not giving credit to God even as Creator because of the almost universal acceptance of evolution. Kind regards and thanks again.—D.O., England

Hi Fred: How are you? I've been communicating with your ministry from the early 90s and its been a great blessing. I have a gold mine of knowledge from your teachings. Through Church at Home my family and I have been able to hold on to Jesus Christ more. May the God of heaven bless you and your wife with great strength to continue spreading the truth for many years to come. I have come to the conclusion that if there is a ministry to support, CBCG is the one.—A.S., Jamaica.

Destin, Florida

Feast Site Corrections/Additions

A few items from the Destin festival announcement need to be corrected:

There are other motels located within a mile or two of the festival location. The Days Inn (850-837-2599), located across the street from the conference room offers rooms at $60 per night. Other motels are located close by with reasonable rates.

Use the following Web site for other lodging options:
www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g34182-Destin_Florida-Hotels.html

Opportunities to serve:

For those who are able, God's Feast of Tabernacles offers unique opportunities to serve. We are currently looking for those who can provide quality special music (vocal or instrumental). Please call or e-mail us if you can help serve in this capacity.

Festival hosts: Russ Kemp and Bob Holman

Russ Kemp (931) 394-2183 / (931) 205-2459

Bob Holman (513) 771-7129 / cell (513) 604-2629

We are looking forward to seeing you for a wonderful and inspiring Feast of Tabernacles in Destin, Florida!