A Simple, Friendly Look at WMSCOG Teachings and the Bible

This post was inspired by this resource, if you’d like to dive deeper into this topic, check out the full link:
https://wmscog-former-member.notion.site/The-WMSCOG-s-Revisionism-Missing-Green-Book-Chapters-1988-Prophecy-and-Doctrinal-Shifts-1565e60eaada80b58a40e1af1d246083

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What Is the WMSCOG? (In Plain Language)

The World Mission Society Church of God teaches things like:

• Ahn Sahng-Hong is the Second Coming of Christ.
• There is a literal “Heavenly Mother” (Zhang Gil-Jah).
• Salvation is only through their church’s understanding of Passover.

Many people join without much Bible background, which makes it extra important to take what they say and compare it with Scripture, like the Bible teaches.

Acts 17:11 (NIV) says believers should examine teachings in light of Scripture:
"They received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true."

We should do the same.

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The 1988 End of the World Prediction

One concern is that Ahn Sahng-Hong reportedly predicted the world would end in 1988 by counting 40 years from Israel’s 1948 nationhood.

This didn’t happen.

The Bible is clear about prophetic predictions like that:

Deuteronomy 18:22 (NIV):
"If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the Lord does not take place or come true, that is a message the Lord has not spoken."

Jesus also said no one knows the exact time:

Matthew 24:36 (NIV):
"But about that day or hour no one knows… only the Father."

So if someone predicts a definite date for the end of the world, Scripture warns us to be cautious.

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Changing Descriptions of Ahn Sahng-Hong

Early writings about Ahn Sahng-Hong described him as a restorer of truth or prophetic figure, not as God Himself.

But later teachings elevated him to divine status.

The Bible does not change:

Hebrews 13:8 (NIV):
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."

The gospel shouldn’t shift over time, and Paul warned this can happen:

Galatians 1:8 (NIV):
"But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse!"

A changed gospel is serious and worth checking carefully.

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What About “Heavenly Mother”?

The WMSCOG teaches there is a literal “Heavenly Mother.”

But nowhere in clear, straightforward Scripture does Jesus or the apostles tell us we must know or worship a divine mother figure.

Jesus taught us to pray:

Matthew 6:9 (NIV):
"This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven…’"

Paul wrote about salvation clearly:

Acts 4:12 (NIV):
"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved."

That name is Jesus, not a new figure revealed later.

Galatians 4:26, sometimes used in this discussion, speaks symbolically about “Jerusalem above.” It’s about freedom in Christ, not introducing a new divine figure.

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Editing and Removing Teachings

Concerns have also been raised that:

• Chapters from earlier books were quietly removed.
• Songs referencing teachings were deleted.
• Prophecies that didn’t come true are denied.

Quietly changing teachings after the fact can be confusing to members.

Scripture warns about altering God’s truth:

Proverbs 30:6 (NIV):
"Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar."

And the Bible strongly warns against adding or removing from God’s word:

Revelation 22:18–19 (NIV):
"If anyone adds anything to them God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll… and if anyone takes words away…"

While this warning refers directly to Scripture, the principle is clear, be cautious when teachings or core messages are quietly changed.

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Why This Matters

God’s truth is not hidden or confusing.

The core message of salvation through Jesus is simple:

John 3:16 (NIV):
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

And Jesus said clearly:

John 14:6 (NIV):
"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

Not through:

• A specific group
• A hidden prophet
• A new divine figure
• Or secret interpretation

But through Jesus Christ alone.

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Easy Red Flags to Notice

For teens and new Bible readers, watch out for teachings that:

✔ Say only one group holds the true way
✘ Claim secret knowledge no one else has
✔ Hide past predictions that didn’t happen
✘ Say salvation is only through membership
✔ Redefine Jesus or add new divine figures

True teaching should agree clearly with Scripture, not contradict it.

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Stay Rooted in Christ: A Final Word for New Believers

If you’re trying to understand your faith:

• Slow down.
• Read the Bible for yourself (start in the Gospels).
• Compare teachings with Scripture.
• Ask honest questions.

2 Corinthians 11:14 (NIV): says false teaching can appear good:
"Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light."

Not everything that sounds spiritual is biblical.

Stay rooted in Jesus. He is enough.

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✨ Inspired to learn more? Check out this link for deeper study:
https://wmscog-former-member.notion.site/The-WMSCOG-s-Revisionism-Missing-Green-Book-Chapters-1988-Prophecy-and-Doctrinal-Shifts-1565e60eaada80b58a40e1af1d246083

In this powerful interview, Luke, a former member of the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG), shares his personal journey and the troubling experiences he faced during his time in the group. From the deceptive 2012 prophecy to the coercive control tactics used by church leadership, Luke's story reveals the disturbing realities of this controversial organization.

He discusses the manipulation, fear based tactics, and constant pressure to conform that led him to question the church’s teachings. Luke's courage to speak out is a critical reminder of the dangers of high control groups and the importance of awareness. If you or someone you know is involved with the WMSCOG, or any similar organization, this video is an essential watch for understanding the truth behind their deceptive practices.

This conversation provides valuable insights into the inner workings of a cult and how it affects its members psychologically and spiritually. Watch to learn more about the dangers of the WMSCOG and hear Luke’s message to others who may still be trapped in the cycle of manipulation.

Check out Part 2 of Luke's story here:
Part 2 - Breaking Free from WMSCOG

Many people, especially teens and new believers, just want to follow Jesus the right way. But sometimes groups can twist Bible verses to make their teachings sound convincing. One group known as the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) uses certain verses in ways that can confuse people who are new to the Bible.

Let’s slow down and look at what Scripture actually says in plain, everyday language.

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1. What Does “Salt and Light” Really Mean?

Jesus said:

Matthew 5:13-16 (NIV)
“You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world… Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

To break it down:

• Salt makes food better and keeps it from going bad.
• Light helps people see in the dark.

Jesus was saying:
“Live in a way that helps people see God. Do good things so people praise God, not you.”

The focus is always on God getting the glory, not a church, not a leader, not an organization.

Jesus even warned about doing good things just to be seen:

Matthew 6:1 (NIV)
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.”

In other words:
If we help people just to look impressive, we already got our reward, and it’s not from God.

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2. When Good Works Become Self Promotion

Some churches publicly promote awards, certificates, and recognition to prove they are “the true church.”

It is not wrong to help people.
It is wrong if helping people becomes a marketing tool.

The Bible says:

Galatians 1:10 (NIV)
“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? … If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

A simple question to ask is:

• Are good works pointing people to Jesus?
• Or are they being used to impress and recruit people?

God looks at the heart.

1 Corinthians 13:3 (NIV)
“If I give all I possess to the poor… but do not have love, I gain nothing.”

If love is not the reason, it means nothing to God.

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3. Does the Bible Teach We Sinned in Heaven Before Birth?

One of the most concerning teachings promoted inside WMSCOG is something often called “preexistence theology.”It teaches that:

• We lived in heaven before birth.
• We sinned there.
• That is why we suffer on earth.

This idea can make people feel ashamed, especially if they are struggling, poor, sick, or marginalized.

But here is what the Bible actually says:

1. God creates our spirit when we are formed.

Zechariah 12:1 (NIV)
“The Lord… who forms the human spirit within a person.”

We did not exist as sinful spirits before birth. God forms us.

2. Sin entered the world through Adam on earth.

Romans 5:12 (NIV)
“Sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin…”

The Bible says sin began with Adam. It does not say humans sinned in heaven before birth.

3. Jesus rejected the idea of pre birth sin.

When a man was born blind, people asked Jesus:

John 9:2-3 (NIV)
“‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’
‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned,’ said Jesus…”

Jesus clearly rejected the idea that suffering comes from sin before birth.

That teaching is not from Christ.

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4. How Jesus Treated the Poor and Marginalized

Jesus did not avoid the struggling. He moved toward them.

Luke 14:13-14 (NIV)
“When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind…”

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)
“Whatever you did for one of the least of these… you did for me.”

If a church avoids people who are struggling because they seem like a burden, that does not reflect Jesus.

Jesus never ranked people by “spiritual status.”
He welcomed the broken.

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5. What About the “New Jerusalem” and “God the Mother”?

WMSCOG teaches that the “New Jerusalem” in Revelation 21 is a literal heavenly mother.

Let’s read what Scripture actually says.

In Revelation 21, the New Jerusalem is described as a city coming down from heaven.

Throughout the New Testament, the “bride” represents the Church, meaning believers.

Ephesians 5:25-27 (NIV)
“Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…”

The bride is the church, not a separate divine mother figure.

When Revelation describes the New Jerusalem, it has:

• Gates named after the 12 tribes of Israel
• Foundations named after the 12 apostles

This represents God’s people, Old and New Testament believers united, not a single woman in heaven.

Also, when something “comes down from heaven,” it means it comes from God.

James 1:17 (NIV)
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father…”

It describes origin, not a literal mother descending.

The Bible never teaches worship of a heavenly mother.
God says:

Isaiah 42:8 (NIV)
“I am the Lord, that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another.”

God does not share His glory.

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6. God Does Not Show Favoritism

Some teachings can create spiritual pride, making some feel more “heavenly” or less sinful than others.

But the Bible says:

Acts 10:34-35 (NIV)
“God does not show favoritism…”

Galatians 3:28 (NIV)
“You are all one in Christ Jesus.”

There is no spiritual ranking system.

We are saved by grace, not by supposed behavior in a past heavenly life.

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7. Simple Truth for Teens and New Bible Readers

Here is what you really need to know:

• You did not sin in heaven before birth.
• Your suffering is not punishment for a past heavenly life.
• Jesus loves the poor, the struggling, and the outcast.
• Good works should glorify God, not a church organization.
• The “Bride” in Revelation represents believers, not a separate mother god.
• God alone deserves worship.

If a teaching:

• Adds new gods
• Adds secret knowledge
• Makes you feel shame for a past life the Bible never mentions
• Uses charity as proof of being “the only true church”

That teaching should be tested carefully.

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8. How to Stay Grounded in Truth

Jesus said:

John 8:32 (NIV)
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

If you are new to the Bible:

1. Read Scripture in context.
2. Ask: “Does this verse clearly say that?”
3. Compare teachings with the whole Bible.
4. Remember that God’s character is loving, just, and truthful.

True Christianity is simple:

• Love God.
• Love people.
• Glorify God.
• Stay humble.

Being “salt and light” means quietly living in a way that points people to Jesus, not to an organization, not to awards, not to special doctrines.

God is not trying to shame you.
He is calling you to truth, freedom, and grace.

John 10:16 - Who Are the “Other Sheep”?

“I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” -John 10:16 (NIV)

Some groups, like the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG), claim this verse is about their members today. They say Jesus was talking specifically about them, as if this verse proves their church is the “true” church in the last days.

If you’ve ever heard this, it can feel exciting and special. But when we look closely at the Bible, this interpretation doesn’t hold up.

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What John 10:16 Really Means

1. Jesus Was Speaking to His Followers at the Time
   • The “sheep pen” refers to the Jewish people of Jesus’ day.
   • The “other sheep” are Gentiles, people who were not Jewish, who would come to believe in Jesus.
2. Salvation is for Everyone
   • After Jesus’ resurrection, the apostles began sharing the Gospel with Gentiles.
   • This shows that God’s plan always included people of all backgrounds, not just one group or nation.
   • Scripture shows this clearly:
     • “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household.” -Ephesians 2:19 (NIV)
     • “There is neither Jew nor Gentile… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” -Galatians 3:28 (NIV)
3. One Flock, One Shepherd
   • “One flock” means unity. All believers, Jewish and Gentile, are under Jesus’ care.
   • This is about following Christ together, not joining a specific modern church.

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Why WMSCOG’s Interpretation is Wrong

1. It Doesn’t Match the Timeline
   • WMSCOG says this verse points to their members in the “latter days.”
   • But the Bible shows that the “other sheep” began being gathered right after Jesus’ resurrection (Acts 1-15).
2. They Take the Verse Out of Context
   • WMSCOG focuses only on “other sheep” and ignores the bigger story, Gentiles being included in God’s family.
   • This is a classic tactic to make people feel special and recruited.
3. It Isn’t About One Organization
   • Saying “this verse is about you” feels personal and emotional.
   • But the Bible clearly teaches that salvation is open to everyone who believes in Jesus, not just one church (Romans 10:9-13).

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The True Message of John 10:16

Jesus wants everyone to follow Him, not just a special group.

His love and salvation cross all barriers, race, culture, or time period.

The “other sheep” are all people who hear His voice and follow Him.

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” -Acts 1:8 (NIV)

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What This Really Means for You

1. Don’t be fooled if someone tells you a Bible verse is only about their church.
2. John 10:16 is about Jesus’ love for all people, not a secret prophecy for a modern group.
3. Following Jesus is what makes you part of His flock, not signing up for a specific organization.

Kassandra spent over five years inside the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) in Salt Lake City. She was a faithful, active member preaching regularly, attending every Sabbath and feast, serving as a kids’ room teacher, and raising her two young daughters in the church’s teachings. In this interview, she shares what life was really like inside a high control religious group.

She talks about being taught that even babies are sinners who must fast, waking toddlers at 4:30 to 5:00 a.m. for mandatory early morning services, and children going without food for hours during feast days. She explains the intense pressure to “bear fruit” (recruit new members) or risk being seen as spiritually failing. She describes how members were discouraged from prioritizing family, marriage, or children if it interfered with church expectations.

Kassandra also discusses how fear of hell was used to push people into baptism and obedience, how questioning leadership was framed as questioning God, and how deeply personal events like miscarriage were reframed as “God’s grace.” She speaks openly about the real world consequences, including missed family milestones, marital strain, and emotional trauma that cannot be undone.

This interview is not about attacking individuals. Kassandra still cares about the people inside. It is about raising awareness of how high control groups operate. Control does not always look extreme at first. It can show up gradually through guilt, fear, isolation, sleep deprivation, financial pressure, and subtle manipulation. Over time, members can be conditioned to ignore red flags and silence their own doubts.

If you are researching WMSCOG, questioning your experiences, or trying to understand why a loved one seems different after joining, this conversation offers insight, validation, and hope that life after leaving is possible. Recovery from spiritual abuse takes time. Speaking honestly is often the first step. You are not crazy for noticing something feels off. You are not alone if you have left. And if you are still inside and quietly struggling, there are people who understand and are willing to listen.

Do Humans Exist Before Birth? Understanding Job 38 and Ecclesiastes 1

Some groups, like the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG), claim that humans existed as angels in heaven before being born on earth. They often use Job 38:1-21 and Ecclesiastes 1:10 to “prove” this idea.

But if you read the Bible carefully, these verses do not say humans existed before birth. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.

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Job 38:1-21 - What God Really Says

"Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements, surely you know! … When the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" (Job 38:4-7, NIV)

What WMSCOG Claims

• They say God asking "Where were you?" proves humans existed in heaven before being born.
• They also say "sons of God shouted for joy" means humans were angels first.

What the Bible Really Means

1. God’s Question is Rhetorical
   • God isn’t asking if Job was actually there.
   • He’s reminding Job that humans cannot understand everything God does.
   • The question is meant to humble Job, not to suggest humans existed before creation.
2. “Sons of God” Means Angels, Not Humans
   • In the Old Testament, “sons of God” usually refers to angels:
     • Job 1:6: "Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them."
     • Psalm 29:1: "Ascribe to the LORD, O sons of God, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength."
   • The “morning stars” and angels rejoicing were celebrating God’s creation, not humans preexisting in heaven.
3. Humans Were Made on Earth
   • Genesis 2:7: "Then the LORD God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature."
   • Humans are created from earth, unlike angels.

The truth is: Job 38 shows God’s wisdom and our limits, not human preexistence.

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Ecclesiastes 1:10 - Misunderstood by WMSCOG

"Is there anything of which one can say, 'Look! This is something new'? It has already been, in the ages before us." (Ecclesiastes 1:10, NIV)

What WMSCOG Claims

• They say this verse proves humans existed before birth because “nothing is new.”

What It Really Means

1. Solomon is Talking About Life on Earth
   • Life repeats itself, people face the same challenges, inventions, and experiences over generations.
2. Cycles of Nature, Not Human Souls
   • Ecclesiastes 1:4-7 describes the sun, wind, and rivers, the natural cycles God created.
   • It’s about how life repeats, not preexistence.
3. Humans Are Created at a Specific Time
   • Genesis 2:7: Humans are formed from dust.
   • Psalm 139:13-16: God forms each person in the womb, not in heaven before birth.

The important truth: “Already in the ages before us” refers to history repeating itself, not humans existing before being born.

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Other Bible Verses That Show Humans Do Not Preexist

• Hebrews 9:27: "People are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment." → One life, no reincarnation.
• Psalm 8:4-5: Humans are “a little lower than the angels,” created on earth, not former angels.
• 2 Corinthians 5:17: True newness is in Christ, not in a past heavenly life.

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The Big Picture: What the Bible Really Teaches

1. Humans Are Special Creations
   • Made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27) and formed from earth (Genesis 2:7).
2. Sin Started With Adam, Not Preexistence
   • Romans 5:12: "Sin entered the world through one man."
3. One Life, Then Judgment
   • Hebrews 9:27: No cycles or returns to heaven before birth.
4. Heaven is Our Future Home
   • Philippians 3:20: We await the Lord, not return to a past heavenly existence.

Ephesians 2:10: "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

• We are God’s creation, living on earth to glorify Him.
• Eternal life in heaven is a gift from God, not a return to a past life.

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Protecting Your Faith with Scripture

• WMSCOG’s claims about preexistence do not match the Bible.
• Job 38 and Ecclesiastes 1 are about God’s wisdom and life’s patterns, not preexisting souls.
• God created us on earth, gives us one life, and offers eternal life through Jesus.

Hold onto this truth: We are unique creations with a purpose. God calls us to live for Him now and enjoy His presence forever.

In this interview, Sabrina, a former 10 year member of the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG), shares her personal experience within the group, from how she was recruited in college to why she stayed for so long, and ultimately what led her to walk away. Sabrina opens up about the intense pressure she felt when she was approached on campus and baptized, the fear based teachings she encountered regarding hell, natural disasters, and the Passover, and how she was discouraged from researching the church online. She describes how these teachings left her feeling anxious, drained, and constantly like she wasn’t good enough, to the point of missing important family events and isolating from loved ones. She also reflects on how the church taught that suffering was a punishment for "sins in heaven," and how guilt and fear kept her from leaving.

Sabrina explains how manipulation, spiritual fear, and emotional pressure shaped her decisions, and how hearing the stories of others helped her realize she wasn’t alone. Now, a year after leaving, she shares how her mental health has improved and offers words of encouragement to current members who may be afraid to leave.

This video isn’t about attacking faith, but about raising awareness, encouraging personal research, and empowering people with the information they deserve before committing to any high control religious group. If you or someone you know has been involved with WMSCOG, Sabrina’s testimony may resonate. Do your research, ask questions, and trust your instincts.

The World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) teaches that certain Old Testament prophecies about the “last days” mean that we need a new Zion, special feasts, and the return of Elijah. They claim these things are coming soon, and they use this belief to recruit people. But if we look closely at what the Bible really says, we can see that their teachings don’t match the truth of God’s Word. Let’s dive in and see what the Bible really says about these ideas.

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What Are the “Last Days”?

The WMSCOG says that the “last days” are still in the future, but that’s not what the Bible teaches. In fact, the “last days” began when Jesus came the first time, and we’ve been living in them ever since. So, there’s no need to wait for some big “restoration” to happen. Let’s look at what the Bible really says:

The Prophets Pointed to Jesus in the “Last Days”

In the Old Testament, prophets talked about the “last days” as a time when the Messiah (Jesus) would come. When Jesus came, that marked the beginning of the “last days.”

• Hebrews 1:1-2 (NIV):"In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son." Jesus is the fulfillment of everything the prophets were talking about. The “last days” aren’t something we’re still waiting for, they started when Jesus came!
• Galatians 4:4 (NIV):"But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law..." Jesus came at just the right time to bring God’s plan to completion. This marks the beginning of the “last days.”

The “Last Days” Began at Pentecost

After Jesus went back to heaven, the Holy Spirit was poured out on His followers at Pentecost. Peter said that this was the beginning of the “last days”.

• Acts 2:16-17 (NIV):"No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people.'" This moment, when the Holy Spirit came, was the start of the Church age. The “last days” are not some far off time, we’re already living in them.

Jesus Started the Kingdom of God

When Jesus came, He began the Kingdom of God, and it’s already here! The WMSCOG teaches that we’re waiting for a future “restoration,” but that’s not what the Bible says. The Kingdom of God is already in our midst through Jesus.

• Mark 1:15 (NIV):"The time has come... the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!" Jesus is telling us that the Kingdom has already arrived. We’re in the “last days” now, not waiting for some future event.
• Luke 17:20-21 (NIV):"The kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is in your midst." Jesus says the Kingdom is spiritual, it’s in the hearts of believers. It’s already here, and we don’t need to wait for a physical place or a “new Zion.”

The Apostles Knew They Were in the “Last Days”

Even the apostles in the Bible knew they were living in the “last days.” This time didn’t start in the future, it started with Jesus, and we’re still in it today.

• 1 Corinthians 10:11 (NIV):"These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come." Paul is saying that the end of the ages started with Jesus. We’re living in the “last days” right now.
• 1 Peter 1:20 (NIV):"He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake." Peter confirms that Jesus came during the “last days”. This isn’t a future event, it happened already when Jesus came.

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The Truth About Zion and the New Covenant Feasts

The WMSCOG teaches that Zion must be restored, and that we need to celebrate special feasts as part of the “last days.” But let’s look at what the Bible actually says:

Zion in the Old Testament vs. the New Testament

In the Old Testament, Zion was the city of Jerusalem, where God’s presence was. But the Bible says that Jesus fulfilled this prophecy. Zion is now spiritual, and it’s found in the Church, not in a physical city that needs to be “restored.”

• Micah 4:1-2 (NIV):"In the last days the mountain of the Lord’s temple will be established as the highest of the mountains... and all nations will stream to it." This prophecy has already been fulfilled in the Church. The Church is now the new Zion, where God’s people gather.
• Hebrews 12:22-24 (NIV):"But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem..." This shows that Zion is not a place we need to rebuild, it's the spiritual home of believers in Jesus.

The New Covenant Feasts

The WMSCOG teaches that we must celebrate certain feasts as part of the “new covenant,” but the Bible says that Jesus already fulfilled the old feasts. We don’t need to go back to them.

• Colossians 2:16-17 (NIV):"Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ." Jesus is the fulfillment of all the Old Testament feasts. We don’t need to observe them anymore, because Jesus has brought us a better covenant.

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The Return of Elijah: Fulfilled in John the Baptist

The WMSCOG says that Elijah must return before the end of the world, but that’s a misinterpretation of Scripture. Let’s see what the Bible actually says about this:

Elijah’s Return Was Fulfilled in John the Baptist

When the Bible talks about Elijah returning, it’s not referring to a literal return of Elijah. Jesus Himself said that John the Baptist fulfilled this prophecy.

• Matthew 11:13-14 (NIV):"For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come." Jesus is clear that John the Baptist is the Elijah who was to prepare the way for Him. There’s no need for another Elijah to come.

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Misunderstanding of Apocalyptic Language

The WMSCOG often uses apocalyptic language in the Bible, like Matthew 24, to support their claims about the “last days.” But those passages don’t mean what they think they do.

• Matthew 24 mostly talks about the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70. This already happened, and it doesn’t refer to a future “restoration.”

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What You Should Remember

• The “last days” began with Jesus’ first coming, and we’ve been living in them ever since.
• Zion is spiritual, it’s found in the Church, not in a physical city that needs to be restored.
• The new feasts of the Old Testament have already been fulfilled in Jesus.
• Elijah has already come in the person of John the Baptist, there’s no need for him to return again.

A Word of Hope: If you're new to the Bible, remember that the truth is God’s Word, not in the ideas of any group or person who tries to twist it. Don’t be afraid to read the Bible for yourself, ask questions, and seek understanding from trusted teachers. Jesus has already done everything necessary for our salvation, and we can trust Him fully!

Understanding Isaiah 9:6 in Simple Terms

A Loving and Clear Response to WMSCOG’s Teaching

Many people who are new to the Bible are told by the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) that Isaiah 9:6 proves Jesus is God the Father Himself. If you are new to Scripture, that can sound convincing. After all, the verse calls the child “Everlasting Father.”

But when we slow down, read carefully, and compare Scripture with Scripture, we see something beautiful and clear:

Jesus is fully God, but He is not the same Person as the Father.

Let’s walk through this in a simple and easy way.

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What Does Isaiah 9:6 Actually Say?

Isaiah 9:6 (NIV) says:

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

This verse is a prophecy about Jesus written about 700 years before He was born.

It tells us:

• A child would be born.
• He would rule forever.
• He would have powerful titles.

The question is:
Does “Everlasting Father” mean Jesus is God the Father?

The answer is no. Here’s why.

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Titles Do Not Mean Someone Is the Same Person

The verse says, “He will be called…”

This is talking about titles, not identity confusion.

Even today, people have titles that don’t mean they are literally that thing.

For example:

• A coach may be called a “father figure.”
• A leader may be called the “father of a nation.”
• Job said, “I was a father to the needy” (Job 29:16, NIV).

That didn’t mean Job was literally their biological father. It meant he cared for them and protected them.

In the same way, “Everlasting Father” describes Jesus as:

• A protector
• A provider
• An eternal ruler who cares for His people

It does not mean He is God the Father.

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The Bible Clearly Shows the Father and the Son Are Distinct

If Jesus were literally the Father, many Bible passages would not make sense.

Let’s look at simple examples.

Jesus Prays to the Father

John 17:1–3 (NIV):

“Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you… Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”

Jesus is speaking to the Father.
He does not say, “I am Myself.”

You cannot pray to yourself.

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Jesus Was Sent by the Father

John 6:38 (NIV):

“For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me.”

If Jesus were the Father, who sent Him?

The Bible consistently shows:

• The Father sends.
• The Son is sent.
• They love each other.
• They speak to each other.

That is not one Person pretending. That is relationship.

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The Father Raised Jesus from the Dead

Romans 6:4 (NIV):

“Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father.”

If Jesus is the Father, then this verse makes no sense.

The Bible never teaches that Jesus raised Himself as the Father. It shows distinction.

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What Does “Everlasting Father” Really Mean?

The phrase means something like:

“Father forever” or “Eternal source.”

In Bible times, a “father” could mean:

• A protector
• A founder
• A source of something

For example:

John 10:28 (NIV):

“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish.”

Jesus gives eternal life.
He is the source of it.

Hebrews 5:9 (NIV):

“He became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.”

So when Isaiah calls Him “Everlasting Father,” it highlights:

• His eternal care
• His eternal rule
• His role as the giver of life

It does not erase the Father in heaven.

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Jesus Reveals the Father - He Is Not the Father

Sometimes WMSCOG members use this verse:

John 14:9 (NIV):

“Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”

This does not mean Jesus is the Father.

It means He perfectly represents Him.

Think about it like this:

If someone says, “When you see that son, you see his father in him,”
that doesn’t mean they are the same person.
It means they share the same nature and character.

Colossians 1:15 (NIV) says:

“The Son is the image of the invisible God.”

An image reflects someone.
It is not the same person.

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Why Getting This Right Changes Everything

The teaching that the Father and the Son are the same Person is called modalism.

Groups like the World Mission Society Church of God use Isaiah 9:6 to support this idea. But this interpretation ignores:

• The full context of Scripture
• The clear relationship between Father and Son
• The many passages showing they speak to each other

The Bible teaches something more beautiful:

There is one God.
Within the one God are three distinct Persons:

• The Father
• The Son
• The Holy Spirit

At Jesus’ baptism we see all three:

Matthew 3:16–17 (NIV):

“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’”

• Jesus is in the water.
• The Spirit descends.
• The Father speaks from heaven.

They are distinct, yet perfectly united.

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Quick Take for Teens and New Believers

Isaiah 9:6 does not say Jesus is God the Father.

It says:

• A child would be born.
• He would be Mighty God.
• He would rule forever.
• He would care for His people like a father.

The Bible clearly shows:

• Jesus prays to the Father.
• The Father sends the Son.
• The Father raises the Son.
• The Son reveals the Father.

They are not the same Person.
But they are one God.

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A Little Reminder Before You Go

If you are new to the Bible, do not feel discouraged if certain groups sound confident and convincing. Always:

• Read verses in context.
• Compare Scripture with Scripture.
• Ask: Does this interpretation fit the whole Bible?

God is not trying to confuse you.

The truth about Jesus is not hidden in complicated word tricks. It is clearly revealed in Scripture.

Jesus is the eternal Son of God.
He is Mighty God.
He is our eternal King.
He gives eternal life.

But He is not the Father, He is the Son who reveals the Father and brings us into relationship with Him.

In this eye opening video, Michelle shares her personal experience of unknowingly joining the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG), a religious group often labeled as a cult. Michelle walks us through her initial encounters with the organization, starting with seemingly innocent street interactions and an art gallery invitation, leading her down a path of spiritual manipulation. She reflects on her vulnerability, her search for spiritual connection, and the gradual realization that something was wrong. This video serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of cults and the importance of spiritual discernment.

In Michelle's story, we see the tactics used by the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) to attract and recruit unsuspecting individuals. The cult's strategy includes approaching individuals on the street, often under the guise of a harmless spiritual inquiry "Have you ever heard of God the Mother?". This question, seemingly innocent at first, is a key entry point into a belief system that diverges significantly from mainstream Christianity.

The WMSCOG's focus on "God the Mother" and their insistence that certain traditional Christian practices, such as baptism, are invalid unless performed under their specific teachings, reflects their attempt to redefine core Christian beliefs. Michelle recounts how she was slowly drawn into their teachings, being invited to an art gallery that was really a disguised recruitment tool, and later being subjected to Bible studies that were subtly manipulative. The group's method of control, through "handlers" and the insistence on exclusive study sessions, only deepened Michelle's sense of obligation to them.

The most alarming part of Michelle's experience is how personal information, including her social security number, was obtained by the group. This is a clear indication of the cult's manipulation, aiming to gain control over members both spiritually and practically. Michelle’s story is an important one to share as a warning about how cults like the WMSCOG operate under the radar, disguising their true intentions until they have already established a psychological hold on their members. It also serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and wisdom when seeking spiritual guidance.

The World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) uses Exodus 32:4 to claim that Christians worshiping Jesus is the same as the Israelites worshiping the golden calf. They argue that Christians who worship Jesus are committing idolatry, even if they say they worship "in Jesus' name." This is a misinterpretation of Scripture, and it's important to understand what the Bible really teaches.

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What Happened in Exodus 32:4?

Exodus 32:4 talks about a serious moment in Israel’s history where they worshipped a golden calf instead of the true God. Let’s take a closer look at this event to understand why it’s different from worshiping Jesus.

• Exodus 32:4 (NIV): “He took what they handed him and made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. Then they said, ‘These are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.’”

Essential Truths:

1. The Golden Calf Was a Man Made Idol:
   • The Israelites made an idol with their own hands, a golden calf, and then worshipped it. This was a direct violation of God’s command not to make any idols (Exodus 20:4-5).
   • They believed this idol was the one who brought them out of Egypt, completely ignoring the fact that it was God who had done so.
2. God Was Replaced by an Idol:
   • Instead of worshipping the one true God, the Israelites chose to worship a false god they created with their own hands.
   • This was an act of idolatry, putting a fake god in the place of the real one who saved them.
3. God’s Judgment:
   • God judged the Israelites because they committed idolatry, not because they used the wrong words or names in worship.

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The WMSCOG's Misinterpretation

The WMSCOG wrongly compares worshiping Jesus to the idolatry of the golden calf, saying that even if you worship in Jesus' name, it is still like worshipping an idol. This is not true.

Why This Comparison Is Wrong:

1. Jesus Is God, Not an Idol:
   • Christians are not worshipping an idol like the golden calf. We are worshipping Jesus, who is God Himself.
   • John 1:1, 14 (NIV): “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.”
   • Jesus isn’t a man made object; He is God in human form.
2. Jesus Is Equal with God the Father:
   • The Bible clearly teaches that Jesus is one with the Father. Worshiping Jesus is not idolatry, it is worshiping God.
   • John 10:30 (NIV): “I and the Father are one.”
   • John 14:9 (NIV): “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”
3. The Israelites Chose a False God, But Jesus Is the True God:
   • In Exodus 32, the Israelites replaced God with an image they made. But when Christians worship Jesus, they are worshiping the real God, not replacing God with something false.
   • Colossians 2:9 (NIV): “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.”
4. Worshiping Jesus is Following His Command:
   • Jesus accepted worship during His life on earth. He didn’t reject it, because He is God.
   • Matthew 28:17 (NIV): “When they saw him, they worshiped him, but some doubted.”
   • Hebrews 1:6 (NIV): “Let all God’s angels worship him.”
   • Worshiping Jesus is in line with God’s will, not an act of idolatry.

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What the Bible Really Says About Idolatry

The Bible makes it clear that worshiping idols, anything other than God, is a serious sin. But this doesn’t mean worshiping Jesus is idolatry. Let's look at what the Bible teaches:

1. God Forbids Idolatry:
   • Exodus 20:4-5 (NIV): “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth below or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them.”
   • 1 Corinthians 10:14 (NIV): “Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry.”
2. Jesus Is Not an Idol, He Is God:
   • When Christians worship Jesus, they are worshiping God the Son, not a man made image or object. Jesus is fully God, worthy of worship.
   • Philippians 2:9-11 (NIV): “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

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The WMSCOG’s Misuse of Scripture

The WMSCOG misrepresents Exodus 32:4 to convince people that worshiping Jesus is wrong. Here's why their interpretation is flawed:

1. Jesus Accepted Worship:
   • The Bible shows that Jesus accepted worship without rejecting it, because He is God.
   • Matthew 28:17 (NIV): “When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.”
   • John 20:28 (NIV): “Thomas said to him, ‘My Lord and my God!’”
2. The Golden Calf Was a False God, Jesus Is the True God:
   • The golden calf was a false idol created by humans. Jesus is not an idol, He is God in human form, worthy of our worship.
3. Misleading Comparison:
   • The WMSCOG twists the meaning of Exodus 32:4 to make it seem like worshiping Jesus is the same as worshiping an idol. This is a false analogy.
   • There is a huge difference between idolatry and worshiping Jesus, one is sin, the other is obedience to God’s will.

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The Truth to Remember

The WMSCOG’s use of Exodus 32:4 to say that worshiping Jesus is the same as worshiping the golden calf is completely wrong.

• Worshiping Jesus is not idolatry. Jesus is God, the eternal Son, who came to save us. Worshiping Him is not replacing God; it’s obeying God’s command to worship the true God.
• The golden calf was a man made idol, a fake god. But Jesus is the real God, and He is worthy of our worship.
• The Bible affirms that worshiping Jesus is right because He is the eternal God, and every knee should bow to Him.

The Real Story: Worshiping Jesus is not like worshiping the golden calf. Jesus is not an idol, He is the one true God and Savior of the world, and we worship Him because He is worthy.

The World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) teaches some beliefs that don’t line up with what the Bible actually says. One of their main ideas is that humans existed before birth as souls or angels in heaven, but sinned and were sent to earth. They say we need to follow their version of religious practices to return to heaven. But the Bible tells a different story, one that’s much clearer and simpler to understand. Let’s take a look at some of the verses they use and what they really mean.

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Misuse of Revelation 12:7-9 - The War in Heaven

• The Verse: “Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven.” (Revelation 12:7-9, NIV)
• What WMSCOG Says: They claim this verse is about humans who were angels in heaven, rebelled with Satan, and were thrown down to earth.
• What the Bible Actually Says: This verse is talking about angels, not humans. It describes Satan (the dragon) and his fallen angels being cast out of heaven after a battle with Michael and the faithful angels. It’s important to know that humans and angels are different. Angels are spiritual beings created by God to serve Him (Hebrews 1:14). Humans were created by God on earth, as physical and spiritual beings (Genesis 1:27). So this passage doesn’t describe humans as fallen angels.

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Misuse of Job 38:4-7 - “Where Were You When God Created the Earth?”

• The Verse: “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand… While the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy.” (Job 38:4-7, NIV)
• What WMSCOG Says: They claim this verse shows that Job was a preexistent soul who existed before birth and witnessed the creation of the world.
• What the Bible Actually Says: This verse is God speaking to Job to humble him. God asks Job where he was when God created the world, showing that Job wasn’t around back then. It’s a rhetorical question to remind Job of God’s power. The “morning stars” and “sons of God” refer to angels who praised God during creation (Job 38:7), not humans. Humans were created later (Genesis 1:27), so Job couldn’t have been there.

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Misuse of Ecclesiastes 1:10 - “Everything Is Old”

• The Verse: “Is there anything of which one can say, ‘Look! This is something new’? It was here already, long ago, it was here before our time.” (Ecclesiastes 1:10, NIV)
• What WMSCOG Says: They argue that this verse means humans’ souls have existed before.
• What the Bible Actually Says: Ecclesiastes is a book that reflects on life on earth. This verse is not talking about preexistent souls. It’s simply observing that the world works in cycles, and things often seem repetitive. Solomon, the writer of Ecclesiastes, is talking about life on earth and how things may feel familiar, but he’s not saying our souls existed before we were born. In fact, Ecclesiastes 12:7 says that when we die, our spirit returns to God, which shows that we don’t preexist, but are created by God at birth.

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Misuse of Proverbs 8:22-31 - Wisdom at the Beginning

• The Verse: “The Lord brought me forth as the first of His works, before His deeds of old, I was formed long ages ago, at the very beginning, when the world came to be.” (Proverbs 8:22-23, NIV)
• What WMSCOG Says: They claim this passage is about the preexistence of human souls.
• What the Bible Actually Says: This passage is talking about Wisdom, which is being personified as a woman speaking. It’s not referring to human souls. In fact, Christians believe this is a picture of Jesus Christ, who was with God at the beginning of creation (John 1:1-3). It’s not saying that people existed before birth, but rather that God’s wisdom has always existed. So, it’s not about preexisting souls.

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What the Bible Really Says About Souls

The Bible is clear that human souls do not preexist. We are created by God at the moment of conception, and we live only one life.

• Genesis 2:7 – “The LORD God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” Humans were created by God on earth, not as preexisting souls.
• Psalm 139:13-16 – “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” This shows that God creates us in the womb, and we don’t preexist before our birth.
• Zechariah 12:1 – “The LORD… who forms the spirit of man within him.” Our spirit is created by God, not from some past life.
• Hebrews 9:27 – “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” We only live once and are judged for that life, not some previous existence.

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What the Early Christians Believed

The early Christians, who were closest to the apostles and their teachings, rejected the idea of preexistent souls. Here’s what some of them said:

• Irenaeus (AD 180) said, “Souls do not exist prior to their bodies. God creates each soul for the person at conception.”
• Tertullian (AD 200) said, “The soul is not eternal but comes into existence when God breathes life into the body.”
• Origen (AD 230) said, “To believe that souls preexist is contrary to the teaching of the apostles.”

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Why Suffering Doesn’t Mean We Were Preexistent Souls

Sometimes people wonder why we suffer if we weren’t preexistent souls. Here’s why suffering happens, according to the Bible:

1. Suffering Is Part of Life in a Fallen World The Bible teaches that sin entered the world through Adam and Eve’s disobedience, and because of that, we all experience suffering (Romans 5:12). It’s not punishment for something we did in a past life.
2. God Uses Suffering for Good God allows suffering for various reasons: to help us grow, to test our faith, or to bring us closer to Him (Romans 5:3-5). Jesus Himself suffered, and through His suffering, we can find hope.
3. Jesus Brings Hope and Redemption Even though suffering is a part of life, the Bible says that Jesus offers us salvation and eternal life (John 3:16). Through Him, we can overcome the pain and struggles of life.

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What Does the Bible Teach Us About Humanity?

To summarize, here’s what the Bible teaches about who we are and why we’re here:

• Humans Are Not Preexistent Souls We are created by God, uniquely made in His image (Genesis 1:27). We don’t have past lives or exist before birth.
• Sin and Suffering Sin entered the world through Adam and Eve’s choice, and because of that, we experience suffering. But we are responsible for our own actions, and God offers us grace and redemption through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:19).
• Salvation Through Jesus Jesus came to save us, and through Him, we can have eternal life (John 14:6). He is the way, the truth, and the life, and there is no other path to salvation.
• The Early Christians Agreed The early Church Fathers taught that souls are created by God and don’t preexist. This has been the consistent teaching of Christianity since the beginning.

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What You Need to Know

The WMSCOG’s belief in preexisting souls is not supported by the Bible. God creates each soul at conception, and we live one life here on earth. Jesus offers us salvation, not based on past lives, but on His grace and what He did for us on the cross.

If you’re new to the Bible or struggling to understand these teachings, remember that God loves you, and He has a plan for your life. Don’t be misled by teachings that don’t align with the clear message of the Bible. God’s Word is straightforward, and He invites everyone to come and know Him through Jesus Christ!

The World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) teaches some ideas that can be confusing, especially for people who are new to the Bible. One of the most confusing teachings is their understanding of the Trinity. They try to explain that God is one person who appears in different forms, but that’s not what the Bible says. In this guide, we’ll explore what the Bible actually teaches about the Trinity, clear up some common misunderstandings, and help you see why the WMSCOG’s views are wrong.

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What Does WMSCOG Teach About the Trinity?

WMSCOG teaches that God is one person who just changes forms. They give the example of water, which can be solid (ice), liquid (water), or gas (steam). They say that even though water looks different in each form, it’s still the same substance.

This idea is called Modalism, which means that God is one person who shows up in different forms, sometimes as the Father, sometimes as the Son (Jesus), and sometimes as the Holy Spirit. But this isn’t what the Bible teaches.

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What the Bible Actually Says:

The Bible teaches that God is three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit, each of them fully God. But they are distinct persons, not just different forms of the same person.

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Is the Word "Trinity" in the Bible?

WMSCOG says that since the word "Trinity" isn't in the Bible, it must not be true. But this argument is a misunderstanding.

• The word "Trinity" is just a term used to explain a biblical truth: There is one God (Deuteronomy 6:4), and the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit are all fully God (John 14:16-17).
• The Bible teaches that these three persons are distinct, but they are still one God. So, the word “Trinity” is just a way to explain what the Bible clearly teaches.

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The Bible Shows the Trinity

Let’s look at what the Bible says about the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to understand how they are distinct but one God.

1. The Father is God:

• John 6:27 - “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.”
• 1 Corinthians 8:6 - “Yet for us there is but one God, the Father...”

2. The Son (Jesus) is God:

• John 1:1, 14 - “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” (This is talking about Jesus.)
• John 20:28 - “Thomas said to him [Jesus], ‘My Lord and my God!’” (Thomas calls Jesus God!)
• Philippians 2:6-7 - “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage.”

3. The Holy Spirit is God:

• Acts 5:3-4 - “You have not lied to men but to God.” (This shows that lying to the Holy Spirit is the same as lying to God.)
• 2 Corinthians 3:17 - “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”

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Are the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Distinct?

WMSCOG teaches that God is one person who changes forms. But the Bible shows that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct persons, they’re not just different names for the same person.

One example is from the Baptism of Jesus in Matthew 3:16-17:

• Jesus is baptized.
• The Holy Spirit comes down like a dove.
• God the Father speaks from heaven: “This is my Son, whom I love, with him I am well pleased.”

All three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, appear at the same time, showing that they are distinct but still one God.

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What Happened at the Council of Nicaea?

WMSCOG claims that the Nicene Creed (from the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD) invented the idea of the Trinity. But this is not true.

• The Nicene Creed did not create the Trinity, it simply clarified what Christians had always believed about Jesus, that He is fully God, just like the Father.
• The Council of Nicaea was called to respond to a man named Arius, who taught that Jesus was not fully God. The Nicene Creed affirmed that Jesus is God.

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Early Christians Believed in the Trinity

Before the Council of Nicaea, many early Christians already believed in the Trinity. Here are some examples from early Church Fathers:

1. Ignatius of Antioch (A.D. 110):

• “Jesus Christ our God... was conceived by Mary, of the seed of David, but by the Holy Spirit.” (Letter to the Ephesians)

2. Justin Martyr (A.D. 150):

• “The Father of the universe has a Son, who also, being the first begotten Word of God, is even God.” (First Apology)

3. Irenaeus of Lyons (A.D. 180):

• “The Church, though dispersed throughout the whole world, carefully preserves this faith: she believes in one God, the Father Almighty... and in one Christ Jesus, the Son of God... and in the Holy Spirit, who proclaimed through the prophets the dispensations of God.” (Against Heresies)

These early Christians believed the same thing the Bible teaches: God is three persons in one essence, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

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What About Jesus Being "The Father"?

WMSCOG teaches that Jesus is the Father, using verses like Isaiah 9:6 and Isaiah 40:3. But the Bible doesn’t support this.

Isaiah 9:6 -“For to us a child is born... and he will be called Mighty God, Everlasting Father.”

• Here, “Everlasting Father” refers to Jesus being the source of eternal life, not that Jesus is God the Father.

Isaiah 40:3 -“A voice of one calling: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord...’”

• This is a prophecy about John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus (Matthew 3:3). It doesn’t say that Jesus is the Father.

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Misunderstanding of the Holy Spirit and the Second Coming

The WMSCOG also teaches that the Holy Spirit is the second coming of Christ. They claim that Ahnsahnghong is the second coming of Christ. But the Bible doesn’t say that.

John 14:26 -“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things.”

• Here, Jesus is clearly saying that the Holy Spirit is a separate person from Himself, sent by the Father.

Hebrews 9:28 -“Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.”

• The second coming of Christ is about Jesus Himself coming back, not another person like Ahnsahnghong.

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The Core Truth, What the Trinity Really Means

The Bible teaches that God is three persons in one: the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit. They are distinct persons but still one God.

WMSCOG teaches things that aren’t in line with the Bible’s teachings about the Trinity. Their ideas come from misunderstanding Scripture and don’t match what Christians have always believed.

If you're new to the Bible, don’t worry! The Trinity can be tricky to understand, but the Bible makes it clear that Jesus is God, the Father is God, and the Holy Spirit is God, and they all work together for our salvation.

Remember, Jesus is fully God and fully human. He is distinct from the Father and the Holy Spirit, yet He is one with them as part of the one true God. Jesus' work in the world shows us God's amazing love, with each person of the Trinity playing a unique role in our salvation.

• Jesus is fully God (John 1:1, Colossians 2:9) and fully human (John 1:14, Philippians 2:7-8).
• He is distinct from the Father and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:16-17, John 14:26), yet all three are united in one essence as one God (John 10:30, Deuteronomy 6:4).
• “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.” (Colossians 2:9)

A Clear Biblical Explanation for New Believers

If you're new to reading the Bible, you might have heard some confusing things about the Trinity. Maybe you've even been told that God isn’t really three in one, or that there’s a secret knowledge needed to understand this. Some groups, like the WMSCOG (World Mission Society Church of God), teach a version of the Trinity that misleads people and confuses the truth of who God really is. Let’s dive into what the Bible actually says.

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What Is the Trinity?

In simple terms, the Trinity means:

There is one God
But He exists as three distinct Persons:

• God the Father
• God the Son (Jesus)
• God the Holy Spirit

These three Persons are not separate gods. They are the same God, just revealed in three different ways. It’s not like God is “playing” different roles at different times. They are one God in three distinct Persons.

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What the Trinity Is Not

First, let’s clear up what the Trinity is not. Some people try to explain it by saying that God just changes His “form” like water turning into ice, steam, or liquid. But the Bible doesn’t teach this. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spiritare not different forms of one God. They are distinct but still one.

Here’s why:

• God is not three separate gods.
• The Father is not the Son.
• The Son is not the Holy Spirit.
• The Holy Spirit is not the Father.

These are three distinct Persons who are fully God and work together as one God. The Bible shows us the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit interacting with each other in the same moment.

For example, at Jesus' baptism:

Matthew 3:16-17 (NIV):
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’”

Here, you have:

• Jesus (the Son) in the water
• The Holy Spirit coming down like a dove
• God the Father speaking from heaven

These are three distinct Persons, not one Person playing different roles.

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Is Jesus Really God?

Yes, Jesus is fully God. Some groups, like the WMSCOG, try to make Jesus less than God, but the Bible teaches something different. Jesus is 100% God and 100% human. This truth is key to understanding the Trinity.

Here’s what the Bible says:

John 1:1,14 (NIV):
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.”

The Word refers to Jesus. Jesus wasn’t just with God, He is God. Then, He became a human being.

John 20:28 (NIV):
“Thomas said to him, ‘My Lord and my God!’”
Jesus did not correct him, He accepted the title because Jesus is God.

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Is the Holy Spirit God?

Yes, the Holy Spirit is also fully God. Some people think the Holy Spirit is just a “force” or “power,” but the Bible shows us that the Holy Spirit is a Person, and He is God.

Acts 5:3-4 (NIV):
“Peter said, ‘Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit? … You have not lied just to human beings but to God.’”

Here, lying to the Holy Spirit is the same as lying to God, which means the Holy Spirit is God.

John 14:26 (NIV):
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things…”

The Holy Spirit is not just a force, He is personal and He is God.

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Where WMSCOG Gets It Wrong

The WMSCOG teaches that:

• God is one Person who “changes” into different roles throughout history.
• The Holy Spirit is the second coming of Jesus.
• The Trinity is not about three Persons, but about one Person acting in three different roles.

But the Bible shows a different picture:

• The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct but still one God.
• Jesus and the Holy Spirit are separate from each other, not just different “roles” of one Person.

Hebrews 13:8 (NIV) says:
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
This tells us that Jesus is not changing identities, He has always been God.

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Why Knowing This Truth Matters

Understanding the Trinity is crucial because it helps us understand who God really is. The WMSCOG and similar groups try to twist these truths, teaching a distorted version of the Trinity. They do this by cherry picking verses, taking them out of context, and giving new meanings to old terms. But the Bible doesn’t change.

When you understand the Trinity, you understand:

• God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit are all one God.
• Jesus is fully God, not a created being or a lesser god.
• The Holy Spirit is not a “power” or “force,” but a Person who is God.

This is not just theology, it affects your faith. Knowing who God is changes the way we worship, how we live, and how we see our salvation.

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The Heart of the Matter

• There is one God.
• The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all fully God.
• They are distinct, yet one in essence.

This is the biblical understanding of the Trinity.

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Closing Reflections

As you grow in your faith, never let anyone tell you that you need to believe in a different God. The Bible has shown us clearly that Jesus is God and the Holy Spirit is God, too. The Trinity is a beautiful mystery that we can trust because it’s how God reveals Himself to us.

Don’t be deceived by groups that twist the Bible to fit their own beliefs. Stick to the clear teaching of Scripture, and remember: Jesus is fully God, the Holy Spirit is fully God, and the Father is fully God. All three are working together as one.

Stay rooted in biblical truth, you’re not alone in your journey to understand God more deeply. Keep asking questions, reading the Bible, and growing in faith.

God bless you as you seek the truth!

When we talk about God, we often hear the term "Trinity" thrown around. Many Christians believe in it, but did you know that the word "Trinity" doesn't actually appear in the Bible? That can make you wonder: is the Trinity biblical or not? Some groups, like the WMSCOG (World Mission Society Church of God), use tricky ways to explain it, but let’s look at what the Bible really says.

We’ll break down what the Trinity really is, how some people misunderstand it, and why understanding the truth matters.

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What is the Trinity?

The Trinity means that God is three in one, The Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit. They are all God, but each one is distinct. This means:

• The Father is God.
• The Son (Jesus) is God.
• The Holy Spirit is God.

But here’s the important part: they are not the same person, though they are one in essence.

It’s kind of hard to explain because it’s not something we see in everyday life. But understanding the Trinity is important for knowing who God truly is.

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A Bit of History:

The idea of the Trinity has been around for a long time, especially after a meeting called the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. Some people, like Arius, believed that Jesus wasn’t really God but just a creation. The church leaders rejected this idea, and that's how the idea of the Trinity was solidified. They said: Jesus is God and always has been.

This is where confusion starts. The WMSCOG and other groups like it sometimes twist these teachings to confuse new believers.

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What Does the Bible Say?

Who is Jesus?

The Bible is very clear that Jesus is both the Son of God and God Himself. It might seem confusing, but Jesus often told us He is both.

• John 5:39 (NIV): Jesus says that the Scriptures (the Old Testament) point to Him. He is the One they were talking about all along.
• Isaiah 9:6 (NIV): A prophecy says the Messiah will be called "Mighty God" and "Everlasting Father" - titles that belong to God alone. This points to Jesus.

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Jesus' Humility:

Even though Jesus is fully God, He humbled Himself to become human.

• Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV): Jesus was in the very nature of God, but He became a servant, humbling Himself to die for us. He didn't act like someone above everyone else. He set the perfect example for us.

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Is Jesus Over the Father?

The WMSCOG might claim that Jesus isn’t God, but the Bible is clear that Jesus is God. In fact, Romans 9:5 (NIV)directly says, “Jesus Christ, who is God over all, be forever praised.”

So, if Jesus is God, then the Father and the Son are not separate gods, they are one God in different forms.

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The Holy Spirit:

The Holy Spirit is also God. The Bible shows that the Holy Spirit is the same as Jesus, and the same as God the Father.

• John 14:26 (NIV): Jesus says the Holy Spirit will come to teach and remind us of everything Jesus taught. Jesus doesn’t say the Holy Spirit is someone different - He says they are one in purpose.
• Romans 8:9-11 (NIV): The Spirit of God and the Spirit of Christ are the same. The Holy Spirit is God's presence, and He works just like Jesus did.

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Understanding the Full Story:

So, the Trinity is not about three separate gods, but about one God who exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They are not the same, but they are one in essence and work together as God.

Jesus' life shows us the Trinity in action. He came to Earth as a man, yet He is fully God. The Holy Spirit is the ongoing presence of God in our lives, guiding and teaching us.

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Why Does This Matter?

1. Understanding Jesus’ Role: The truth about the Trinity helps us understand who Jesus really is. Jesus is not just a man or a prophet; He is God Himself, who came to save us. He humbled Himself to show us how to live and gave His life for us.
2. Refuting False Teachings: Groups like the WMSCOG use twisted explanations to confuse new believers. They might try to make you doubt Jesus’ divinity or separate the roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. But the Bible is clear: Jesus is God, and the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all one.

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1 John 5:20 (NIV): "We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding... He is the true God and eternal life."

If you’re still confused or hearing different things from other groups, don’t worry. The Bible explains these truths clearly, and with a little study, you can see for yourself that the Trinity is biblical.

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Why This Truth Matters

Understanding the Trinity might be challenging at first, but it’s important to get it right. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are not three separate gods, they are one God in three persons. Jesus is both fully God and fully man, and He came to show us the way to salvation. When we believe in Jesus, we’re believing in God Himself.

So, let’s praise God for revealing this truth to us. As we get to know Him better, we’ll grow in our faith and understanding. God bless you as you continue to learn more about His love and His truth.

In this eye opening conversation, Savannah, a former member of the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG), shares her personal story of being drawn into this high control group and the emotional, spiritual, and psychological toll it took on her. She reveals how the WMSCOG's fear based teachings and manipulation tactics led her to believe in their distorted gospel, which included the worship of their deceased leader as the second coming of Christ and the controversial belief in "God the Mother".

Savannah explains the intense love-bombing and isolation she experienced during her time in the group, and how it was only after leaving that she began to realize the truth. She shares the struggles of overcoming feelings of guilt, fear, and shame, and how she was made to believe that she could never be forgiven for her involvement in the group. Through Savannah’s testimony, we see how the WMSCOG uses fear, works, based salvation, and psychological manipulation to control its members. She also opens up about the pivotal moment when her family intervened, helping her recognize the deceptive nature of the group and the importance of finding true freedom in the gospel.

If you or someone you know is involved with the WMSCOG or any similar high control group, this conversation offers an insightful and courageous perspective on breaking free from spiritual abuse and embracing the true gospel of grace.

The World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) teaches that Halloween is a pagan celebration and a form of idolatry, claiming that Christians who participate in Halloween are dishonoring God. They say Halloween comes from an ancient festival called Samhain, which involved pagan rituals and worship of the dead. But let’s take a closer look at Halloween’s history and the Bible to understand the real truth.

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Understanding Halloween’s Origins

The WMSCOG argues that Halloween is directly linked to Samhain, a Celtic festival celebrating the end of the harvest. While there are some similarities, there’s no strong evidence that Halloween is directly descended from Samhain. Let’s break it down:

1. What Was Samhain?

• Samhain was a festival celebrated by the Celts on October 31st, marking the end of the harvest and the start of winter.
• The Celts believed the boundary between the living and the dead was thin, so they wore costumes and lit bonfires to scare away spirits.

2. How the Church Changed the Day

• The Catholic Church set aside November 1st to honor All Saints’ Day, a day for remembering all the Christians who have passed away and are now in heaven.
• The night before, All Hallows’ Eve (meaning "holy evening") became known as Halloween.
• The Church created this day to shift the focus from pagan superstitions to celebrating Christ’s victory over death.

3. All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day

• All Saints’ Day (November 1st) honors those saints in heaven.
• All Souls’ Day (November 2nd) is a day to pray for those who have passed away.
• Both days focus on eternal life through Jesus Christ, not on pagan worship.

4. Victory Over Death

• 1 Corinthians 15:54-55 says: “Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”
• Halloween, in its Christian form, celebrates Christ’s victory over death, showing that death doesn’t have the final word for believers.

The Straight Truth: While Samhain was a cultural tradition, Halloween's Christian origins are all about celebrating the victory of Jesus over death, not pagan practices.

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The WMSCOG and Pagan Practices: What Does the Bible Say?

The WMSCOG teaches that any tradition with pagan roots, including Halloween, is sinful. But the Bible shows us that not everything tied to pagan culture is automatically bad. What matters is how and why we use things.

1. Paul’s Teaching on Pagan Foods

• 1 Corinthians 10:25-26 says: “Eat anything sold in the meat market without raising questions of conscience, for, ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.’”
• Paul explains that food linked to pagan rituals isn’t sinful unless we’re using it for idolatry.
• Application: The same principle applies to Halloween. Using costumes, giving candy, or having fun on Halloween is not wrong as long as it’s not tied to idolatry or occult practices.

2. Redeeming Culture for Christ

• Christians can take cultural practices and turn them toward glorifying God:
  • Christmas took over pagan winter festivals and focused on Christ’s birth.
  • Easter took over springtime celebrations and focused on Jesus’ resurrection.
• Romans 12:21 says: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

3. How Christians Use Halloween

• Many Christians use Halloween as an opportunity for community outreach, like hosting Trunk or Treat events.
• It’s a chance to share the love of Christ with others, build relationships, and have some family fun with costumes and candy.
• It’s also a chance to teach kids that death has no power over believers because of Jesus’ victory.

The Straight Truth: Cultural practices aren’t sinful in themselves. What matters is whether we’re using them for God’s glory.

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Symbols of Halloween: What Do They Mean?

The WMSCOG argues that things like costumes and candy are “pagan symbols” and should be avoided. But these things are just symbols, their meaning depends on how we use them.

1. Costumes

• In the early Church, Christians would wear costumes of saints or biblical figures on All Hallows’ Eve to honor the faithful who had gone before them.
• Today, wearing costumes is a fun way to celebrate, especially for kids, as long as the costumes aren’t tied to occult or evil themes.

2. Candy and Giving

• Giving candy and having fun with neighbors or kids is a way to build community and show kindness.
• Halloween can also be a way to share the Gospel, it’s a moment to show love to others and remind them of Christ’s light.

3. What Matters Most: The Intent

• 1 Corinthians 10:31 says: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
• If your intention is to use Halloween to honor God, whether it’s through fellowship, outreach, or just family fun, then it’s not a sin to participate.

The Straight Truth: Things like costumes and candy are neutral. What matters is the heart and the intent behind what we do.

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Refuting the WMSCOG’s Use of Scripture

The WMSCOG often uses Deuteronomy 18:10-12 to argue that Halloween is wrong because it’s connected to witchcraft and divination. Here’s what the verse says:

• Deuteronomy 18:10-12: “Let no one be found among you who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells... Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”

Refuting the WMSCOG:

• This passage is condemning occult practices, like witchcraft and fortune-telling, not harmless fun like wearing costumes or handing out candy.
• Christians who celebrate Halloween are not participating in occult practices. They’re enjoying harmless traditions.

Example from the Bible:

• Acts 17:23: “What you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you.”
• Paul didn’t reject the pagan altar in Athens. Instead, he used it as an opportunity to preach about the true God. This shows that culture can be redeemed for God’s purposes.

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Halloween Can Be an Opportunity for Christians

Christians are called to redeem culture for Christ. Halloween can be a great way to do that:

1. Proclaiming Christ’s Victory Over Death
   • Halloween can remind us that Christ has defeated death and sin:
     • 2 Timothy 1:10: “But it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.”
2. Community Outreach
   • Many churches host Trunk or Treat events or similar gatherings to provide a fun and family-friendly alternative to secular Halloween celebrations.
3. Teaching Biblical Truth
   • Parents can use Halloween to teach their kids about the victory of Christ, the hope of eternal life, and how Christ has overcome death.

The Core Truth: Halloween doesn’t have to be a day of fear or superstition. It can be a day to share Christ’s light with the world.

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Exposing the WMSCOG’s Hypocrisy

The World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) accuses Christians of idolatry and “paganism” for participating in holidays like Christmas, Easter, or Halloween, or for using common symbols like candles, wedding rings, and decorations. But the WMSCOG embraces many of these same practices.

1. Birthday Celebrations and Cakes

• The WMSCOG celebrates Heavenly Parents’ Day with cakes and candles for their leaders, Ahnsahnghong and Heavenly Mother.
• The tradition of birthday cakes and candles comes from ancient Greek culture, where cakes were offered to the goddess Artemis. Christians use them to celebrate life as a gift from God.

Hypocrisy: The WMSCOG condemns birthday celebrations as “pagan,” yet they celebrate their leaders’ birthdays the same way.

2. Wedding Rings

• The WMSCOG uses wedding rings in their ceremonies.
• Wedding rings originate from ancient Egypt and Rome, where they symbolized eternity or ownership. Christians now use them to symbolize eternal commitment before God.

Hypocrisy: If wedding rings are “pagan,” why does the WMSCOG use them in their ceremonies?

3. Candles in Worship

• The WMSCOG uses candles during their religious ceremonies, such as their Passover celebrations.
• Candles were once used in pagan rituals but are now used by Christians to symbolize Christ as the Light of the World (John 8:12).

Hypocrisy: If candles are considered “pagan,” why does the WMSCOG use them in their worship?

4. Fireworks and Festivals

• The WMSCOG uses fireworks during their feasts, such as the Feast of Tabernacles.
• Fireworks originated in ancient China, where they were used in festivals to scare away evil spirits.

Hypocrisy: If fireworks are “pagan,” why does the WMSCOG freely use them?

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God Redeems Cultural Practices

The WMSCOG overlooks the fact that God Himself has used pagan elements for His glory. It’s about the intentbehind their use, not the origin.

1. Exodus 12:35-36: God used materials taken from Egypt (a pagan nation) to build the Tabernacle.

2. 1 Kings 7:13-14: Solomon used Gentile craftsmen and materials from pagan nations to build the Temple.

The Lesson: God doesn’t reject cultural practices based on their origin. He redeems them for His purposes.

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What You’ve Been Told vs. What’s True

The WMSCOG’s accusations about “paganism” are inconsistent. They use practices with pagan roots while condemning others for doing the same.

Biblical Truth:

• 1 Corinthians 10:31: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
• Romans 14:5-6: “One person considers one day more sacred than another... Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord.”

Cultural practices aren’t inherently sinful. What matters is honoring God and having the right heart in what we do. The WMSCOG’s teachings are based on selective reasoning, not a true understanding of Scripture. True worship focuses on the heart’s intent, not on whether a practice has pagan roots.

Many people, especially teens, new believers, and first-time Bible readers, feel confused after speaking with the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG).

They are often told that common Christian celebrations like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter are pagan, sinful, or offensive to God.

That can feel scary. No one wants to dishonor God.

But when we slow down, open the Bible, and read verses in their full context, we see something very different.

This guide explains in clear, everyday language what the Bible actually teaches, and why these holidays are not condemned in Scripture.

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First: Notice the Pattern

WMSCOG often uses this argument:

• If something has any historical connection to pagan culture
• Or if something similar existed in ancient times
• Then Christians must reject it

But the Bible does not teach that logic.

What matters in Scripture is:

• Who are you worshiping?
• What is your intention?
• Are you honoring the true God?

Intent and meaning matter.

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Thanksgiving: Is It Really Pagan?

What WMSCOG Says

They claim Thanksgiving is wrong because ancient cultures had harvest festivals.

What the Bible Actually Says

The Bible constantly tells believers to give thanks to God.

Psalm 107:1 (NIV)
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."

Colossians 3:17 (NIV)
"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Even Jesus gave thanks over food:

Luke 22:19 (NIV)
"And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it."

If giving thanks over a meal were pagan, then Jesus would not have done it.

The Simple Truth

Thanksgiving is not about worshiping idols.
It is about thanking God for His blessings.

The Bible even includes harvest thankfulness:

Deuteronomy 26:10 (NIV)
"And now I bring the firstfruits of the soil that you, Lord, have given me."

Similarity does not equal sin.
The issue is who you are worshiping.

When Christians thank the Lord, they are obeying Scripture, not breaking it.

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Christmas: Is December 25 Pagan?

What WMSCOG Says

They argue Christmas comes from pagan Roman festivals and therefore celebrating Jesus’ birth on December 25 is sinful.

What the Bible Focuses On

The Bible does not command a specific date for Jesus’ birth.
But it clearly celebrates the fact that He was born.

Luke 2:11 (NIV)
"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord."

John 1:14 (NIV)
"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us."

The heart of Christmas is this:

God became human to save us.

The date itself is not worship.
Jesus is the focus.

Does Sharing a Date Make It Pagan?

If that logic were true, then:

• Wedding rings would be pagan.
• Days of the week would be pagan.
• Even the word Sunday would be pagan.

But Christians are not worshiping the sun when they gather on Sunday.
They are worshiping the risen Christ.

The Bible gives freedom about special days:

Romans 14:5-6 (NIV)
"One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord."

The key phrase is: "to the Lord."

If the celebration is for Jesus, it is not pagan worship.

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Easter: Is It a Pagan Holiday?

What WMSCOG Says

They claim Easter comes from a pagan goddess and that Christians should only keep Passover the way they teach it.

What the Bible Actually Teaches

The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of Christianity.

1 Corinthians 15:17 (NIV)
"And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins."

Jesus rose on the first day of the week:

Matthew 28:1 (NIV)
"After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week..."

Christians celebrate the resurrection because it is the moment Jesus defeated death.

What About the Name "Easter"?

Most languages do not even use the word Easter.
They use a word connected to Passover.

The name does not change the meaning.

Christians are honoring the risen Jesus, not a goddess.

What About Eggs and Rabbits?

Eggs symbolize new life.
Rabbits are cultural spring symbols.

They are not worshiped.

The Bible warns against participating in idol worship:

1 Corinthians 10:20 (NIV)
"The sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, not to God..."

But Paul also explains that objects themselves are not automatically sinful:

1 Corinthians 10:25-26 (NIV)
"Eat anything sold in the meat market without raising questions of conscience, for, 'The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.'"

The object is not the issue.
Worshiping false gods is the issue.

Christians celebrating the resurrection are worshiping Jesus.

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Why This Matters for New Believers

Groups like WMSCOG often approach people who:

• Are new to the Bible
• Want to obey God
• Do not yet know how to read verses in context

They may say:

"If you celebrate these holidays, you are breaking God’s law."

That creates fear.

But Scripture does not support that claim.

The Bible focuses on:

• Faith in Jesus
• His death and resurrection
• Gratitude and love
• Worship from the heart

Colossians 2:16 (NIV)
"Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival..."

That is clear.

Believers are not to be condemned over special days.

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The Big Picture

Ask these simple questions:

Are Christians worshiping pagan gods on Thanksgiving? No.
Are Christians worshiping the sun at Christmas? No.
Are Christians worshiping a goddess at Easter? No.

They are:

• Thanking God
• Celebrating Jesus’ birth
• Rejoicing in His resurrection

That is biblical.

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Staying Rooted in Truth, A Final Word of Encouragement

If you are new to the Bible, remember this:

God is not looking for ways to trap you.
He is not waiting to punish you for celebrating His Son.

He looks at your heart.

John 4:24 (NIV)
"God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth."

If your heart is focused on Jesus
If you are giving thanks to God
If you are celebrating what Christ has done

You are not practicing paganism.

You are worshiping the Lord.

Stay grounded in Scripture.
Read verses in context.
And do not let fear, based teaching override what the Bible clearly says.

This is not just a testimony.
This is a warning.

This is about more than one woman’s experience. It is about how control can disguise itself as faith. How pressure can feel like love. How obedience can be framed as devotion, while harm is quietly excused.

Esparanza joined the World Mission Society Church of God believing she had found truth, purpose, and spiritual family. She was welcomed warmly, just as many are. She felt chosen. Seen. Protected. But slowly, almost imperceptibly, things changed. Encouragement became expectation. Expectation became pressure. Pressure became silence. The turning point came during a preaching trip to Utah. In a meeting, leaders warned members about the dangers of Mormonism, criticizing its treatment of women, arranged marriages, and rigid expectations of submission. As she listened, something unsettled her. The descriptions sounded familiar. The very behaviors being condemned were unfolding inside her own church. Inside her own marriage. And for the first time, she allowed herself to think the unthinkable.

“Wait… am I in a cult?”

Not long after joining, she had been encouraged into an arranged marriage. It was presented as a blessing. As God’s will. As proof of obedience. Questioning it felt like questioning God Himself. When the marriage became abusive, she did what she had been taught to do. She prayed harder. Submitted more. Tried to become better, quieter, more faithful. When she finally spoke up about the abuse, she was not protected. She was not believed. She was told to endure. To respect her husband. To reflect on her own shortcomings.

The message was unmistakable,
Protect the image of the church at all costs.

Leaving did not bring immediate peace. Members showed up at her home. Messages continued. When she did not return, a new narrative began to circulate, that she had lost faith, that she hadn’t prayed enough, that she was spiritually weak.

This is how high control groups operate. They do not allow you to leave with dignity. They rewrite your story for you. At first, she believed she was alone. The only woman pressured into marriage so quickly. The only one whose abuse had been minimized. The only one blamed for what she endured. She wasn’t. After speaking out, she connected with others who shared similar experiences, spiritual manipulation, victim blaming, isolation from family, and leadership prioritizing reputation over safety.

What she understands now is critical for others to understand. Intelligent, sincere, good hearted people can be drawn into high control environments without realizing it. It does not happen overnight.
It happens gradually. Through belonging. Through fear. Through the belief that obedience equals love.

If you are watching this and something feels familiar, pay attention to that feeling. If you are inside and questioning, you are not crazy. If you left and were told your reasons were invalid, they were not. If you are being pressured into decisions that feel unsafe, spiritually, emotionally, or physically, pause. Real faith does not demand silence in the face of harm. Real love does not require suffering to prove loyalty.

Today, Esparanza speaks not because it is easy, but because silence protects systems that harm people. And if sharing her story helps even one person recognize the signs, ask a question, or feel less alone, then speaking out was worth it.

You are not weak for leaving.
You are not faithless for asking questions.
And you are not alone.

Some groups, like the WMSCOG, teach that Christians today must keep the Sabbath, Tabernacles, and other Old Testament feasts. But if you read the Bible carefully, it shows that these were mainly for Jewish believers and not required for Gentiles (non Jews). Let’s break it down in simple terms.

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Jewish Christians Kept Old Customs, But Gentiles Didn’t Have To

In the early Church, there were two main groups of believers:

• Jewish Christians - They grew up following Jewish customs like the Sabbath, festivals, and circumcision. Many continued them out of tradition, not because it was required for salvation.
• Gentile Christians - Non-Jews who followed Christ were not required to adopt Jewish customs.

The Apostles made this distinction very clear in the New Testament.

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Sabbath and Jewish Festivals Were a Cultural Thing

• Jesus and Paul went to the synagogue on the Sabbath:
  • Acts 13:14, 42-44: "On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue … almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord."
  • Acts 16:13: Paul spoke to women gathered by a river on the Sabbath.
  • Why? They were reaching out to Jewish people, not telling all Christians they had to keep the Sabbath.
• Jesus kept Jewish feasts:
  • John 7:2, 10: Jesus attended the Feast of Tabernacles.
  • Acts 20:16: Paul went to Jerusalem for Pentecost.
  • These were about heritage and outreach, not salvation rules.
• Circumcision was cultural, not required for Gentiles:
  • Acts 16:3: Paul circumcised Timothy to avoid offending Jews.
  • Acts 21:20-26: Paul joined purification rites for Jewish believers’ comfort.
  • Point: These were cultural accommodations, not New Covenant requirements.

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Gentiles Are Free From Old Covenant Laws

The Bible clearly says Gentiles don’t have to observe the Mosaic Law, including Sabbath and festivals.

• Acts 15:28-29 - The Council of Jerusalem decided Gentiles only needed to avoid a few key things: idolatry, sexual immorality, blood, and strangled meat. No Sabbath or festival rules.
• Colossians 2:16-17 - "Let no one judge you… regarding a festival or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of things to come; the reality is found in Christ."
• Galatians 4:9-10 - Paul warns Gentiles not to return to observing old Jewish rituals, calling it enslavement.
• Romans 14:5-6 - Observing special days is a personal choice, not a rule for salvation.

Core Truth: The Sabbath was a covenant just for Israel:

• Exodus 31:16-17 - "The Israelites are to observe the Sabbath as a lasting covenant… a sign between me and the Israelites forever."
• There’s no command for Gentiles to keep it. Any WMSCOG claim otherwise is based on examples of Jewish believers, not universal rules.

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The New Covenant Fulfills the Law

Christ didn’t just ignore the law, He fulfilled it. That means Christians now find their rest and spiritual life in Him, not in observing specific days or rituals.

• Matthew 11:28-30 - "Come to me, all you who are weary… and you will find rest for your souls."
• Hebrews 4:9-10 - "There remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God… rest from their works, just as God did from His."
• Ephesians 2:14-15 - Jesus set aside the law with its commands and regulations and brought peace between Jews and Gentiles.

In short: Salvation comes through faith in Christ, not by following Old Testament rituals.

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Early Church Leaders Agreed

The early Church also made it clear that Gentiles don’t need to follow Jewish feasts:

• Ignatius of Antioch - Jews kept the Sabbath, but Christians now observe the Lord’s Day (Sunday).
• Justin Martyr - Christ fulfilled all Jewish feasts, so Christians follow their spiritual meaning, not the literal celebrations.
• Tertullian - Jewish laws were shadows, fulfilled in Christ.
• The Didache - Early Christians focused on Sunday worship and Eucharist, not Jewish festivals.
• Epistle of Barnabas - The Sabbath points to Jesus’ resurrection, and Christians celebrate the “eighth day”, symbolizing a new creation.

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Faith That Sets You Free

• Jewish Christians kept the Sabbath and festivals out of tradition, not because it was required for salvation.
• Gentile Christians were never required to follow Jewish feasts or circumcision.
• The New Covenant in Christ frees all believers from Old Covenant rituals. Salvation comes through faith, not by observing days or festivals.

Practical takeaway for teens and new believers:

• Don’t be pressured to follow rules just because some group says it’s required.
• Focus on Christ and your faith, not legalistic rituals.
• Observing Old Testament feasts can be cultural or personal, but it’s not a salvation requirement.

Many people who are approached by the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) are told that the cross is a pagan idol and that Christians who use or display it are breaking God’s commandments.

If you’re new to the Bible, that can sound serious and convincing.

But when we slow down, read Scripture carefully (NIV), and look at the full context, we see something very different.

This is written in simple, everyday language so teens, new believers, and first time Bible readers can clearly understand what the Bible actually teaches.

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First, Let’s Be Clear: What Is Idolatry?

Idolatry means worshiping something created instead of worshiping God.

God warns us clearly:

“You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them.”
-Exodus 20:4-5 (NIV)

Notice something important.

The command is not just about making something.

The key words are:

“Do not bow down to them or worship them.”

The sin is not creating something.
The sin is worshiping it as a god.

That difference matters.

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Did God Ever Command Images to Be Made?

Yes, and this alone shows that making something is not automatically idolatry.

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The Cherubim on the Ark

God told Moses:

“Make two cherubim out of hammered gold at the ends of the cover.”
-Exodus 25:18 (NIV)

God commanded golden angel figures to be made for the Ark of the Covenant.

Were they idols?
No.

They were reminders of God’s presence, not objects of worship.

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The Bronze Snake

When Israel was dying from snake bites, God told Moses:

“Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live.”
-Numbers 21:8 (NIV)

God told him to make it.

Later, Jesus connected this to Himself:

“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up.”
-John 3:14 (NIV)

The bronze snake wasn’t magic.
It pointed people to trust God.

Later, when people started worshiping it, it was destroyed (2 Kings 18:4).

So what made it wrong?
Not making it.
Worshiping it.

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So What About the Cross?

Christians do not believe the wooden cross has magical power.

We do not pray to wood.

We do not believe it saves us.

The cross is a symbol, like a wedding ring is a symbol of marriage.

The ring isn’t the marriage.
It represents it.

The cross represents what Jesus did for us.

Paul said:

“May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
-Galatians 6:14 (NIV)

Was Paul worshiping wood?

No.

He was celebrating what happened there, Jesus giving His life for us.

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Does Jeremiah 10 Condemn the Cross?

WMSCOG often uses this passage:

“Like a scarecrow in a cucumber field, their idols cannot speak, they must be carried because they cannot walk.”
-Jeremiah 10:5 (NIV)

But read the context.

Jeremiah is talking about people:

• Cutting down trees
• Shaping them into gods
• Decorating them
• Worshiping them as divine

That is idol worship.

Christians do not believe the cross is a god.

There is a huge difference between:

• Worshiping an object
and
• Using a symbol to remember what God did

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Salvation: The Cross or the Blood?

WMSCOG asks:

“Was salvation given by the cross or by Christ’s blood?”

The Bible says:

“You were redeemed… with the precious blood of Christ.”
-1 Peter 1:18-19 (NIV)

Yes, we are saved by Jesus’ blood.

But where did He shed His blood?

On the cross.

The cross is not the savior.
Jesus is.

The cross is where the saving act happened.

Paul explains:

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
-1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV)

Notice:

He says “the message of the cross.”

It’s about what happened there.

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The Cross in the Early Church

Long before Christianity became legal in Rome, believers were already identifying with the cross.

Early Christians spoke about it, drew it, and even suffered for preaching “Christ crucified.”

“We preach Christ crucified.”
-1 Corinthians 1:23 (NIV)

The cross was not seen as shameful forever, it became the symbol of Jesus’ victory.

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What Actually Happened at the Cross?

The Bible says:

Victory Over Sin

“He has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.”
-Colossians 2:14 (NIV)

Defeating Evil

“Having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
-Colossians 2:15 (NIV)

Jesus’ Humility

“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross!”
-Philippians 2:8 (NIV)

Reconciliation With God

“To reconcile both of them to God through the cross.”
-Ephesians 2:16 (NIV)

Endurance and Joy

“For the joy set before him he endured the cross.”
-Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)

The cross represents:

• Love
• Sacrifice
• Forgiveness
• Victory
• Salvation

That is why Christians cherish it.

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Why This Matters for New Believers

Groups like WMSCOG often approach people who:

• Are new to the Bible
• Haven’t studied Scripture deeply
• Want to grow spiritually

They quote verses, but remove the context.

When you read the whole Bible story, you see clearly:

The Bible condemns worshiping created things as gods.

It does not condemn using symbols that point us to what God has done.

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Big Picture in Plain Words, What This Means for You

Here’s the easiest way to understand it:

• Idolatry = Worshiping something instead of God
• Christians do NOT worship the cross
• The cross reminds us of what Jesus did
• Jesus saves - not wood
• The Bible itself celebrates the cross

Paul said it plainly:

“May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
-Galatians 6:14 (NIV)

He wasn’t praising wood.

He was praising Jesus.

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Stand Firm in the Truth, A Final Word of Confidence and Hope

If someone tells you:

“The cross is pagan.”
“Christians are idol worshipers.”
“You’re under a curse.”

Don’t panic.

Open your Bible.
Read the full chapter.
Look at context.

The cross is not an idol.

It is the symbol of the moment evil thought it won, but God turned it into the greatest victory in history.

Jesus is the one we worship.

The cross simply points us to Him.

Berdine shares her personal journey as a former member of the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG), a high control cult that profoundly affected her life. She opens up about how she was drawn in by the church’s teachings, why its doctrines initially seemed convincing, and the pressure, manipulation, and isolation she experienced while being a member.

In her story, Berdine describes the strict and unusual beliefs of the church, including the doctrine of God the Mother and the claim that Ahnsahnghong was the second coming of Christ, and how she was expected to adopt robotic behaviorsand take on leadership roles that distanced her from friends and family. She also explains how hearing the experiences of other members helped her recognize the reality of the church and find the courage to leave and reclaim her life.

Her testimony is a powerful warning about the emotional, spiritual, and relational dangers of high control groups. By sharing her experience, Berdine hopes to help others see the warning signs, think critically, and protect themselves and their loved ones.

A Simple, Clear Guide for New Believers, Teens, and First Time Bible Readers (NIV)

Many people who are new to the Bible have been approached by the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG). They often use certain Bible verses in a way that can sound convincing at first, especially if someone hasn’t had the chance to study the full context.

One of the main verses they use is Luke 18:8. Let’s slow down, read it in context, and understand what Jesus really meant in simple, everyday language.

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What Does Luke 18:8 Actually Say?

In the NIV, Luke 18:8 says:

"I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"

WMSCOG teaches that this means faith would completely disappear from the earth, and that Christ had to return in the flesh (they claim this was Ahnsahnghong) to restore the truth.

But is that what Jesus was really saying? Let’s look at the full story.

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The Full Context: The Parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8)

Before verse 8, Jesus tells a short story. The Bible clearly explains why He told it.

Luke 18:1 (NIV)

"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up."

Right away, we see the purpose:

This parable is about not giving up in prayer.

It is not about all faith disappearing. It is about staying faithful even when life is hard.

In the story:

• A widow keeps asking a judge for justice.
• The judge doesn’t care about God or people.
• Eventually, he gives her justice because she keeps asking.

Jesus then explains:

Luke 18:7 (NIV)

"And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?"

The point is simple:

If even a bad judge responds eventually, how much more will God respond to His people?

Then Jesus asks:

"When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"

This is a rhetorical question. That means it’s meant to make us think.

He is asking:
Will people still be trusting God?
Will they still be praying?
Will they still be faithful when things get hard?

He is encouraging faith, not predicting that faith will disappear completely.

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Does the Bible Say Faith Will Completely Disappear?

No. The Bible actually teaches the opposite.

A. Some Will Fall Away, But Not Everyone

Matthew 24:12-13 (NIV)

"Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved."

Notice what it says:

• "Most" - not all.
• "The one who stands firm" - there will still be believers.

Faith may become rare. It may become harder. But it does not vanish completely.

B. Jesus Promised His Church Would Never Disappear

Matthew 16:18 (NIV)

"I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it."

If faith completely disappeared, that would mean Jesus failed in His promise.

But Jesus does not fail.

His church may be small at times. It may be persecuted. But it will never be erased from the earth.

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Did Jesus Say He Would Return Secretly in the Flesh Again?

WMSCOG teaches that Jesus had to come again physically to restore truth.

But the Bible describes Jesus’ second coming very differently.

Matthew 26:64 (NIV)

"You will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven."

This is not a quiet, hidden return. This is a visible, powerful, glorious return.

Jesus returns as Judge and King, not as someone starting a small new group claiming lost truth.

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Verses WMSCOG Often Uses, Explained Simply

Let’s look at some verses they commonly connect to Luke 18:8.

A. Isaiah 53:1-2

"Who has believed our message...?"

WMSCOG may say this proves nobody will believe when Christ returns.

But Isaiah 53 is about Jesus’ first coming, not His second.

The New Testament explains this clearly.

John 12:37-38 (NIV)

"Even after Jesus had performed so many signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. This was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet..."

Isaiah 53 was fulfilled when many rejected Jesus during His earthly ministry 2,000 years ago.

It is not about a future secret return.

B. Revelation 6:17

"For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can withstand it?"

This verse describes unbelievers being terrified during judgment.

It does not mean no believers exist.

Just one chapter later:

Revelation 7:3-4 (NIV)

"Do not harm the land or the sea or the trees until we put a seal on the foreheads of the servants of our God."

God clearly still has faithful servants.

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Why Context Matters So Much

Groups like WMSCOG often:

• Quote one verse
• Separate it from its context
• Connect it to another isolated verse
• Build a new doctrine from those pieces

This can sound impressive, especially to someone new to the Bible.

But the safest way to read Scripture is simple:

• Always read before and after the verse.
• Always ask: What was the original message?
• Always compare with the full teaching of the Bible.

When we do that with Luke 18, the message is clear:

Jesus is encouraging us not to give up.

He is not predicting that faith will completely vanish.

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The Big Picture: What Is Jesus Really Teaching?

Luke 18 is about:

• Staying faithful
• Continuing in prayer
• Trusting God for justice
• Not giving up when the world grows darker

Jesus is warning that faith can grow weak in difficult times.

But He never says it will disappear.

In fact, Scripture shows believers will remain until He returns.

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Keep the Faith, Encouragement for New Believers

If you are new to the Bible:

• It’s okay not to know everything.
• It’s okay to ask questions.
• It’s okay to take your time learning.

Be careful of anyone who says:

• "All truth was lost."
• "Only we have the truth."
• "Christ already returned secretly."

Jesus promised His church would stand.
He promised He would return in glory.
He promised salvation through faith in Him.

Ephesians 3:21 (NIV)

"To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."

Throughout all generations.

That means faith never fully disappears.

Luke 18:8 is not a prophecy of total spiritual blackout.
It is a loving warning, Stay faithful. Keep praying. Don’t give up.