We are very pleased to announce the translation and publication in French of our booklet on baptism: “Baptême — Une Exigence Pour Le Salut.”

The 2016 Church Conference will be conducted in San Diego, California. Arrival date is April 7^th with departure scheduled for April 13^th.

“The Whole World Is on Edge!” is the title of a new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

2015 was a “horrible and depressing year.” This program gives a short overview regarding terrible events in the world, the USA, Europe and the Middle East, and raises the pertinent question as to whether we can expect any better news in 2016. Most commentators and global powers are pessimistic, pointing out that the “whole world is on edge” and comparing it with a sick “patient.” They say that America’s “future course is far from settled,” and while Europe’s “aim must be a joint European army,” many Germans fear that Angela Merkel “is plunging the country into chaos.” Even lying demons are raising their voices about the future of the world, desiring to deceive gullible people. What DOES the future hold?

“Gottes Strafe für unsere Sünden,” is the title of this coming Sabbath’s German sermon. Title in English: “God’s Punishment for Our Sins”

“Spiritual Growth in God’s Church,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

When we want to grow spiritually, we must be faithful in what is least; we must help the least; and we must not despise the day of small things. We must control our thoughts, and we must avoid false ideas and hypocrisy. What God begins, He begins in a small way, so that it can grow and become bigger. Even His Kingdom and His Government must and will grow. God’s Church is small today, a little flock, but it is predestined to grow, if it fulfills its godly commission. Individual Christians must also be partakers of this growth.

“Germany Will Dumbfound the World,” is the title of a new StandingWatch program presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

Most will be caught by utter surprise when developments in Germany will occur in the not-too-distant future, which will affect the entire world. History will repeat itself, and so we should learn from historical mistakes. Especially the incredibly sad US politics and reports of the American mainstream media about the Hitler regime in its early years gives us strong indications as to what will happen again… but next time, the rude awakening will come far too late for most.

A special new StandingWatch program has been recorded by Evangelist Norbert Link. Titled, “The Dark Side of Christmas,” we are promoting this video through several outlets—Facebook, directed emails, our CEG website and press releases. For additional information, please refer to our booklet, “Don’t Keep Christmas!”

“Deutschlands Gerüchteküche,” is the title of this week’s Sabbath sermon. Title in English (approximately): “Germany’s Rumor Mill.”

“You Shall Not Kill!” is the title of last Sabbath’s sermonette, presented by Norbert Link. Here is a summary:

Some teach that the commandment against killing does not include an injunction against killing in war. They say that the Hebrew word for killing means murder, and that killing in war is not murder. But is this correct?

“God’s Unlimited Power,” is the title of last Sabbath’s sermon, presented by Mike Link. Here is a summary:

There is no limit to what God can do. The Bible is full of examples for our admonition to show us just how powerful He is. If we understand that, then there should be no reason to underestimate Him.

A new Member Letter (December 2015) has been written by Pastor Rene Messier. In this letter, Mr. Messier strongly encourages us to get fully engaged in the Work of God and to fulfill the responsibilities God has placed on each one of us. This letter has been mailed to those on our mailing list. If you would like to receive our monthly letters or other of our literature, please contact us with your request.

A special new StandingWatch program has been recorded by Evangelist Norbert Link. Titled, “The Dark Side of Christmas,” we are promoting this video through several outlets—Facebook, directed emails, our CEG website and press releases.

Here is a summary appearing with the program announcement:

Pagan Origins

Did you know that many of the celebrations around Christmas originate in a time long before the birth of Christ? While many people may think they are commemorating Christ’s birth and celebrating the “joy” of the season, they are actually paying homage to pagan customs connected to evil spirits, concepts and figures.

Evil Customs “Christianized”

In this program, we will show you how the traditions surrounding Christmas such as gifts, Santa Claus and the Christmas tree are not only pagan customs that have been adopted by Orthodox Christianity, but how observance of such practices are an abomination to God!

“Gehet Hin in Alle Welt…,” is the title of this week’s new German sermon. Title in English: “Go Into All the World…”

“Go Into All the World…,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Jesus told His disciples to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature”, and He said that “this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” But what exactly does all of this mean?

“The Need for Fasting,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Kalon Mitchell, is now posted. Here is a summary:

Just like our need for physical food, we also need spiritual food. Fasting is one of the things that helps us to draw close to God to be able to receive this spiritual food. How often then do we actually fast? Do we think that fasting is as important as prayer and Bible study? How should we approach fasting?

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?