Find the Way
UCG Media Center Updates
May 13, 2022
Build on the Rock
When a person has surrendered one’s life to God and is actively seeking His will (Romans 12:1-2), they will find that “God can use any of us in unexpected ways for His service,” writes Church president Victor Kubik. In his final “Personal from the President,” Mr. Kubik encourages disciples to build on the spiritual Rock of Jesus Christ to achieve success, both in this life and for eternity, always being “imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love” (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Journeying to the Kingdom of God
Disciples today hold remarkable privileges as they seek to follow the will of God and advance toward the Kingdom of God. The Bible offers sterling examples of spiritual lives for us to learn from today. Chicago-area pastor, William Bradford, illustrates details in his recent sermon, "Examples Written for Our Admonition."
Being Spiritually Transformed in this Life
The biblical account of Rehab the Harlot offers some surprising insight for life in the 21st century. As Peter Eddington, operation manager for Media and Communications Services, explains, God does not expect us to stay as He found us. We are expected to grow in grace and knowledge, to put sin out of our lives, to become a new person. Watch this insightful sermon, "Rahab: It's Not Where You Came From But Where You End Up," to learn more.
A Half Century of Service in Christ’s Ministry
President Victor Kubik provides highlights of service and experiences in his last appearance on the Inside United podcast, an outreach he started early in his presidency. UCG Media professional, Scott Buchanan, interviews the outgoing president. Listen to the podcast, "Farewell Mr. Kubik," the 244th produced by Mr. Kubik.
Hurricane!
The worst natural disaster to ever hit the Bahamas left people struggling for meaning and hope. "Hurricane: Resilience, Recovery and Hope," a new new short video produced by Rudy Rangel and Jamie Schreiber of Media and Communications Services, highlights what happened when a massive hurricane hit the Bahamas and how the Good Works program of the United Church of God provided aid. Watch the 18-minute video presentation now.
May 6, 2022
The Servant Queen: 70 Years of Setting an Example
“I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service.” So proclaimed the then-future Queen Elizabeth II on her 21st birthday to the peoples of the British Commonwealth. Today celebrating her remarkable 70thyear on England’s throne and her Platinum Jubilee year, Queen Elizabeth remains singularly popular, with an approval rating higher than any politician on either side of the Atlantic. Beyond Today writer, Melvin Rhodes, analyzes why the Queen continues to be so popular, including comments on the Queen’s enduring commitment to biblical values. Read "70 Years of Elizabeth II: Servant Queen."
The Word: A Road Map for Life
The 23rd graduating class of Ambassador Bible College (ABC) just spent nine months systemically studying the Bible, which includes more than 770,000 words. The Bible—the Word of God—holds great power and provides each of us with a positive road map for life. Church president, Victor Kubik, describes how students explore and dive deeply into the Bible with the assistance and guidance of senior faculty and experienced Church administers. Want to sample ABC classes for yourself? Visit https://abc.ucg.org/courses. Read more of Mr. Kubik’s thoughts and comments from members of the 2022 ABC class in the “Personal from the President.”
Senior Pastor in Italy Begins “Proclamation Workshop”
Church members in Italy will soon receive information on how to discuss and share Church beliefs with members of the public and their families. As senior pastor, Carmelo Anatasi, writes: “Through this effort to reach the public with the message of the gospel, we give our brethren careful pastoral and editorial instruction and guidance on how to advertise our Church’s magazines, brochures and video-sermons along with their personal comments on Facebook and other social networks.” Read more in the current column, “Pray for the Gospel to Have Free Course.”
Rebuilding Agriculture in War-torn Ukraine
The chief executive of World to Rebuild Rural Ukraine, who works with long-time United Church of God elder Neal Kinsey (himself a well-known global expert on agribusiness), took part in a recent informative podcast with Church president, Victor Kubik, titled: “Ukraine’s Empty Breadbasket.” Listen to how organizations are working together to restore destroyed agriculture in what traditionally has been a major source of food exports in Europe and elsewhere here.
April 29, 2022
What Is the Hope of Humanity?
In a time of global uncertainty, can one have confidence about a life beyond this human existence? Here’s a hard question: what happens to a loved one when they die? There is an answer and it’s good news! During Jesus’ earthly ministry in the first century, He often preached the good news of a coming marvelous transformation and an amazing future for humanity. The apostle Paul authoritatively declares to us that God “desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4, English Standard Version). To learn more of this amazing news, read the online article "The Promise of a Coming Kingdom."
Being about Our Father’s Business
The Bible records an unusual story. As a remarkable12-year-old, Jesus was asking insightful questions at the Jerusalem temple that amazed His elders. When He was asked why He was there, Jesus answered, “Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” (Luke 2:49). Following His resurrection nearly two decades later, He would declare to His disciples—both in the first century and today—that He was returning “to My Father and your father, and to My God and your God” (John 20:17). What does that mean for us today? Church president, Victor Kubik, explains in his April 28 Personal from the President: "Being About Our Father’s Business."
An Expansion of Harsh Government Oversight?
In the aftermath of the pandemic, trends around the world show signs of increasing unwanted government oversight of many kinds, including outright tyranny. As personal rights in Europe and Asia are increasingly trampled on, what does the future hold? Beyond Today writer, Michael Kelley, reviews global issues and future biblical prophecies of a coming malevolent global government. Read more in his article, “Growing State Tyranny: Foretaste of the End Time?”
Helping the Homeless in Ukraine
The United Church of God and LifeNets International have long been involved in helping people in Ukraine, including Sabbatarians and “street children” who desire a better life. In the “Memories of Ukraine” Podcast, Victor Kubik interviews Ambassador Bible College student Winston Snyder about his service trip to help teach English to “street children,” which took place shortly before the first Russian invasion of eastern Ukraine. Listen to the 18-minute Inside United Podcast, "Memories of Ukraine."
April 8, 2022
Finding Hope Amidst a Devouring Fire
A foretaste of the Great Tribulation? As war continues in Ukraine from the Russian invasion, widespread reports of multiple atrocities against Ukrainian civilians have inflamed much of the world. Some five million people have become war refugees, fleeing what is already expected to be more than half a trillion dollars in devastation. Yet hope appears among the survivors! Church president, Victor Kubik, provides on-the-spot details—as well as news of a new Bible Study Guide on Russia in Prophecy—in his latest “Personal from the President.”
Why Did Jesus Have to Die?
If God is all-powerful, why did His Son Jesus Christ have to die in the first century? This question has perplexed many. The surprising answer is humbling for each of us, as it opens the way for humans to receive eternal life in the Kingdom of God. Read more of insightful biblical in, "The Passover: Why Did Jesus Christ Have to Die?"
Pray for the Gospel to Have Free Course
New encouraging work to proclaim the Gospel of the Kingdom of God continues to take place. We invite you to regularly read and pray for insights and focus to take the precious good news of Jesus Christ to every corner of the world. In these increasingly troubling times, please bookmark and review the latest developments at the Web page, Pray for the Gospel to Have Free Course.
Inside United podcast: The Russian Invasion, Part 2
UCG media professional, Scott Buchanan, continues his interview with Church president, Victor Kubik, about current events and background of the Russian-Ukrainian war, following up on the popular Part 1. Listen to the 24-minute analysis, "The Russian Invasion: Part 2."
April 1, 2022
Preparing for the Passover: The Lamb of God
Without it there is no plan of God for humanity, but thankfully, as the apostle Paul writes, “Christ, our Passover Lamb, has been sacrificed for us” (1 Corinthians 5:7, New Living Translation). What does this mean? In his current “Personal from the President,” Victor Kubik describes the need to fully discern the body of Christ. As he writes: “A major part of our worshiping is to be in a renewed and refreshed spirit of humble repentance before, during and after the Passover service. An unexamined mind can occlude the full benefit…Use this time of Passover preparation to ask God to open your eyes, grant you repentance, and lead you to a path of change.” Read more here.
The Truth about Counterfeit Christianity
In the seventh chapter of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus Christ warns about those who think they are doing the work of God through humanly accepted traditions, including certain days of worship and celebrations. As Jesus cautioned, they will be shocked when He tells them “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness” (Matthew 7:23). Long-time Beyond Today presenter, Steve Myers, explains how to avoid this: “Let go of the traditions of men and hold on to the truth…be led by God, seek the truth.” To learn more, watch the 28-minute Beyond Today program “Counterfeit Christianity” (or read the transcript).
Current Events and Background of the Ukraine-Russia Conflict
As the Russian invasion of Ukraine enters its second month of destructive havoc, what does this mean? New UCG-media employee, Scott Buchanan, interviews Victor Kubik—a former Ukrainian refugee from post-World War II—about direct news from his contacts inside the country. Listen to the Inside United Podcast “The Russian Invasion, Part 1” for more.
March 25, 2022
Trustworthy Proof of the Life of Christ
Evidence both in the Bible and in historical sources soundly confirm the life of Jesus Christ. Long-time Beyond Today TV producer, Peter Eddington, discusses the surprising and trustworthy evidence of Jesus’ life on earth. As he writes: “There are 10 known non-Christian writers who mentioned Jesus within 150 years of His lifetime—compared to just nine that mention Tiberius, the Roman emperor of Christ’s day.” The number jumps far higher if one includes Christian authors. Mr. Eddington describes many other instances of solid evidence supporting the New Testament, far more than exist for secular manuscripts. Read more in the Beyond Today article, “Do We Have Valid Testimony to the Life of Christ?”
God’s Amazing Plan for You
As the world turns to a time of traditional religious observances, the Bible—including the New Testament—offers specific details about observing times and seasons that picture an astonishing incredible human potential. As the apostle Paul wrote: “Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth” (1 Corinthians 5:7-8). What is that “feast” Paul spoke of? To understand more of God’s amazing plan for us, download and review the insightful Bible study guide, "God’s Holy Day Plan: The Promise of Hope for All Mankind."
Raising Funds for Brethren in Zambia
Members of the United Church of God living in Zambia need a new bus, so Ambassador Bible College (ABC) students helped raise funds for over half of the cost in their annual ABC Charity Fun Auction on March 20. Church president, Victor Kubik, provides details of the humorous and entertaining event, which featured acts and musical presentations by students and faculty. Mr. Kubik also discusses how people can still make contributions to LifeNets International to help fund the bus. Read more in this weeks “Personal from the President.”
March 18, 2022
Seizing the Moment
Many pressures in today’s society tell us that we’re not good enough, that we don’t have the right experiences, that we in many respects are unworthy of life itself. Long-time pastor and Beyond Today contributor, Robin Webber, provides biblical hope, as he writes: “A developing disciple of Jesus Christ should not be defined this way. You have not been called to be an Everybody, Somebody, Anybody or Nobody, but to be a child of our Heavenly Father, bearing His name and responding to Jesus’ invitation of “Follow Me” in whatever comes our way—getting past self and what others might think or say to seize the moment for God’s glory.” Read more encouraging truth in Mr. Webber’s current Beyond Today column, “Follow Me: Seizing the Moment for God’s Glory.”
What’s the Future for a Reawakened Russian Bear?
Why has Russian President Vladimir Putin written and spoken so much about restoring the greatness of Russia, lamenting about the fall of the Soviet Union? How does that play into the current Ukrainian war? Shortly after Russia first invaded Ukraine in 2014, long-time Beyond Today contributor (and former Ukrainian refugee), Victor Kubik, prepared an in-depth look at what took place in Russia over the past century and how it affects the world today. Read his insightful Beyond Today article “The Russian Bear Reawakens.”
Help Zambian Brethren through the Annual ABC Charity Fun Auction
Each year students at Ambassador Bible College plan and host a Charity Fun Auction (both in-person and online) to help raise funds to help members of the United Church of God. This year on Sunday, March 20, the students will be raising funds for brethren in Zambia to help with much needed transportation. If you would like to take part (and enjoy skits and entertainment), click on the webcast link to join the fundraiser between 1-3 p.m. EDT on March 20. Miss the show but still want to help? Use the contact information on the webcast page.
Ukrainian Update and Deep Personal Thanks
In this week’s “Personal from the President,” Victor Kubik relays current information from inside war-torn Ukraine and also offers thanks for the many cards and letters he and his wife Bev have received regarding his upcoming transition. Read it now.
March 11, 2022
What Does the Bible Say about Russia?
The brutal invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces has dominated the news for the past few weeks. Much of the world—including a revitalized European Union and NATO countries—have pulled together to resist what the Russian leadership calls the “Special Military Operation” against Ukraine and to provide aid to the beleaguered country. As hostilities intensify, worries mount of potential nuclear, chemical or biological warfare being unleashed by Russia. After the first Russian invasion of Ukraine a few years ago, long-time Beyond Today contributor, Mario Seiglie, documented an interesting dimension on potential events found in the Bible. Read his insightful commentary “Where Does Russia Fit in End-time Bible Prophecy?”
Can You Actually “Walk with God?”
In describing a relationship between God and humans, the Bible notes that biblical figures actually “walked with God” (Genesis 5:22). Is it possible for people to do that today, particularly during current uncertain times? Beyond Today senior writer, John LaBissoniere, provides vital information for a meaningful, direct relationship with God. Read more in his article “You Can Walk with God.”
A Goat, a Bedouin and the Truth of Prophecy
Some 75 years ago a young Bedouin stumbled onto one of the greatest archeological discoveries of all time—the Dead Sea Scrolls. One of the ancient scrolls remarkably featured all 66 chapters of the prophetic book of Isaiah—a book that is quoted in the New Testament more than any other book of the Old Testament. Church president, Victor Kubik, discusses the personal relevance of the Great Isaiah Scroll for the current biblical season (together with news from Ukraine) in his weekly “Personal from the President.”
March 4, 2022
How to Find God In Times of Turmoil
Between pandemic and open war, the last two years have taken a fearsome toll on many. As Beyond Today managing editor, Scott Ashley, writes in the current issue: “It’s no wonder that people feel so beaten down, depressed, and hopeless.” Yet, there is real encouragement and hope for those who trust in God! Read more in Mr. Ashley’s article “Walking with God in Times of Trouble.”
Finding Meaning in an Uncertain World
For several years Beyond Today writers and TV hosts have been analyzing world events and trends through a biblical framework. The Bible provides remarkable vision and understanding that is vital for you to know. To gain insight on history, possibilities of the rise and action of future political leaders, and what events might mean for you personally, we encourage you to regularly check out the Beyond Today webpage. In fact, it’s a good idea to bookmark the page so you're updated on critical events and trends. As Jesus Christ directs us: “Watch and pray!” (Matthew 26:41).
“Let Us Unify Together and Continue to Do the Work!”
Later this year Church president, Victor Kubik, will be stepping down from his current position. In his current “Personal from the President,” Mr. Kubik recounts highlights of his 50 years in the ministry of Jesus Christ and notes that he and his wife, Beverly, will continue to help people through LifeNets International, a global humanitarian organization they founded more than two decades ago. He encourages all to “draw near to God” (James 4:8) and to “be imitators of God…and live a life of love” (Ephesians 5:1-2). In closing, he writes: “It is indeed a priceless privilege for us all to be a vital part of the Church of God. Let us unify together and continue to do the Work!” Read his March 3 "Personal."
February 25, 2022
Personal Insight on Ukraine and a Story of Forgiveness
As violent war broke out from Russia against Ukraine on February 24, the world looked on aghast. United Church of God president, Victor Kubik, holds many humanitarian and family ties in the Ukraine. In his current “Personal from the President” column, he provides both insightful thoughts on the situation and also relates a powerful story of how one man learned how to forgive, even in the face of atrocities. Read Mr. Kubik's column now.
A Biblical Worldview on a “New World Disorder”
In early February, the Wall Street Journal published a lead editorial titled “A New World Disorder,” reviewing possible moves by autocratic leaders in Russia, China, Iran and elsewhere that could threaten world security. The opinion piece noted that “None of this is alarmist or farfetched to anyone paying attention.” In a recent BT Daily, Beyond Today TV host, Darris McNeely, explains what “paying attention” means from a biblical perspective. To learn more about this important topic, watch the short video, “Are You Prepared?” (or read the transcript).
Beauty for Ashes: Understanding the Compassion of Jesus Christ
During his short ministry on earth, Jesus Christ achieved many things. His astonishing sacrifice opened the way for humanity to be forgiven and receive eternal life through grace. Jesus also openly demonstrated how to have and demonstrate compassion for all people. Frank Dunkle, a minister and faculty member of Ambassador Bible College, has spoken on how to be like Jesus Christ in showing compassion. Quoting Isaiah 61, Dr. Dunkle explains how Jesus Christ can give “beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.” Listen to th full sermon on the topic, "Compassion, Beauty and Ashes."
February 18, 2022
Inspiring Insight from Besieged Ukraine
Earlier in the week before Russia announced ICBM nuclear missile test fires and an increased build-up of military forces on Ukrainian borders, Church president, Victor Kubik, talked with several people living and working in Ukraine, including Sabbath-keeping Christians there. As one Ukrainian Sabbath-keeper told Mr. Kubik by phone: “We do not believe in those selling media disinformation, and [we] believe what is written in the Bible.” Himself born a Ukrainian in a United Nations refugee camp after World War II, Mr. Kubik (today a U.S. citizen) writes of escalating events and inspiring insight in his February 17 “Personal.” In addition to his brief comments about the recent unexpected death of Church pastor, Shawn Cortelyou, read his latest column: “Great is His faithfulness: inspiring insight from besieged Ukraine.”
Finding the Creator Through Science Podcast – Part 2
Will artificial intelligence (AI) and so-called “intelligent machines” ever replace humans? What is “micro-evolution”? And how do the earth’s tectonic plates make the planet hospitable to life? The existence of a powerful Creator God who is active in this physical world does not contradict science. UCG’s Peter Eddington returns for Part 2 of the Inside United Podcast discussion of this year's Conference on Science & Faith hosted by the Discovery Institute. Listen to the 19-minute insightful discussion with Victor Kubik, "Finding the Creator Through Science Part 2."
Misguided Leadership, Conspiracy, and a Coming Hope
In a time of global uncertainty, many earnestly seek answers. A recent, major Wall Street Journal opinion piece headlined a “New World Disorder,” referencing the global turmoil of today. As Beyond Today TV host, Steve Myers, asks: “Do you ever sense that there’s something coming?” As he continues in his recent Beyond Today program, “Many powerful people envision a reordered world, a better world, especially in the aftermath of the economic hardship and death of the COVID-19 pandemic.” This short-term “reordered world” may not yield what humanity expects. His recommendation? “Events are taking place in our world that should point you to Bible prophecy.” To learn more about what Scripture reveals about a coming new malevolent political and economic power—and the marvelous God-directed solution that will replace it—watch the 28-minute Beyond Today program “Great Conspiracy."
February 11, 2022
A Surprising Spiritual Superpower
Jesus taught a powerful lesson for His disciples that holds surprising power. It is often easy to tap, but often too seldom used. As Beyond Today TV host, Darris McNeely, explains, “This is not just some trivial approach, it really enhances your life.” To learn more, watch the short BT Daily “Saying Thank You: An Attitude of Gratitude” (or read the transcript.)
Understanding the Incredible Human Potential for All
When looking on the surface of human behavior and community life, it can be easy to make negative assumptions about how people live and what is their future. Church president, Victor Kubik, shows how—despite current situations or beliefs—all people have access to an incredible human potential in the future. Read more in his February 10 “Personal.”
An Important Dimension in Bible Study
Sometimes preconceived notions can clutter, even block, deeper understanding of important biblical text. For example, was Thomas, a 1st century disciple of Jesus Christ, a doubter? Or was he faithful? Micah Gunn, a United Church of God staff member, offers some important keys to unlocking critical meaning while studying the Bible. Read more in "Faithful Thomas."
February 4, 2022
A Crucial Key for Successful Relationships
Many marriages start out vibrant but cool off over time. How can this be avoided? Can a relationship be revitalized? Can a good marriage or relationship be made even stronger? In his current “Personal,” Church president, Victor Kubik, describes a crucial key for success in marriage and how relationships indeed can be rejuvenated. Read more in his February 3 column, “Don’t Take Love for Granted.”
Choosing the Power of Humility
In 2017 an entertaining comedy film, Table 19, told a story about how people seated at the back table of a wedding reception humorously became friends. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus told a parable about not deliberately and inappropriately seeking the place of honor, but instead choosing humility—as represented by choosing a lesser seat at a public gathering. Beyond Today TV host, Darris McNeely, explains how the act of putting off arrogance and pride can actually create an opportunity for positive advancement for us by God Himself. The good news? “Humility is a choice.” Watch the short BT Daily video (or read the transcript): Table 19: Humility Is a Choice.
Christianity and Science: Finding Order in the Universe
How has the Judeo-Christian belief system contributed positively to the rise of science and the development of the scientific method? United Church of God Media and Communications Services operation manager, Peter Eddington, discusses recent content from the Dallas Conference on Science and Faith in the February 3 Inside United podcast. Listen to the podcast to learn more about how the Bible and the natural world work harmoniously to showcase God's design in "Finding the Creator Through Science."
January 28, 2022
Producing Fruit of the Spirit: What Does Jesus Expect?
Passive or active? In teaching His disciples Jesus was plain about His direction: “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples” (John 15:8, New International Version). How can we be highly productive in fulfilling this directive from our future King and Elder Brother? Read the answer in this insightful article “The Fruit of the Spirit – Christ’s Command to Us.”
Aiming for the Standard of Proverbs 31
The book of Proverbs ends with a powerful description often titled “A Wife of Noble Character.” Continuing his discussion on the biblical institution of marriage, Church president, Victor Kubik, relates the personal blessings he has seen and experienced in 40 years of marriage, many reflecting the standards of Proverbs 31. Read his January 27 “Personal.”
Taking You “Inside United”
Each week Church president, Victor Kubik, interviews ministers, media figures, church members and others about insight on current events, biblical trends, recent relevant research and personal experiences. If you enjoy or appreciate listening to podcasts, check out the wide variety on the Inside United Podcast.
January 21, 2022
A Surprisingly Effective Way to Deal with Isolation and Stress
From the highest level of governments to stand-alone health clinics, the message rings clear: people basically everywhere today suffer in new and debilitating ways from stress, anxiety, depression and isolation. How can people effectively deal with this? Beyond Today contributor, Janet Treadway, writes of the power of encouragement, of choosing to reach out beyond oneself. See what the Bible says in the current Beyond Today article “Choose to Be Happy While Encouraging Others.”
Energize Growth: Change the Way You Think
Recent research validates the fact how people think produces a remarkably profound effect on the quality of their lives. This is particularly true in how they engage in positive or negative “self-talk.” Such internal “self-talk” shapes perceptions and subsequent actions, even when the mental conclusions reached are not accurate! The Bible offers direct solutions in how to direct one’s thoughts to produce positive change and growth. Watch Beyond Today host, Gary Petty’s, insightful program “You Become What You Think” (or read the transcript) and reap immediate benefits!
New Developments Validate the Biblical Record
As professional archeologists conduct new research utilizing state-of-the-art technology, recent discoveries confirm critical details and historical truth of the biblical record. These include ancient scrolls found through projects coordinated by the Israel Antiquities Authority and Jerusalem ruins confirming biblical details from the time of Judah's Kings Hezekiah and Josiah. These represent but a few. Read more of these exciting discoveries in the Beyond Today article: “Recent Holy Land Finds Support the Biblical Record.”
January 14, 2022
Blurring Sexual Identity: An Assault on Biblical Authority
Canada recently enacted an alarming new law which, in effect, alleges that long-accepted biblical standards regarding gender and sexual activity are to be regarded as a “myth.” Church president, Victor Kubik, reviews the implications of this new law and other similar developments, showing how the legislation and other efforts to formalize “gender dysphoria” and biblically forbidden sexual acts are “a perverse undermining and corruption of biblical teaching.” He encourages all in the Church of God community to “wisely, earnestly and prayerfully consider the ‘perilous times’ in which we are entering.” Read more in Mr. Kubik’s January 13 “Personal from the President.”
Independent Archeological Evidence: The Destruction of Ancient Sodom
Does proof now exist that God destroyed the ancient city of Sodom according to the biblical record? Reviewing a peer-reviewed independent research paper authored by 21 scientists, the Beyond Today magazine asks a provocative question: “What If Sodom Has Been Found?” In Genesis chapters 18 and 19, the Bible provides great detail of the supernatural destruction of ancient Sodom. The Beyond Today coverage explains “how destruction evidence found by the archaeologists at Tall el-Hammam fits the biblical description of Sodom’s sudden end. The evidence shows a sudden catastrophic destruction originating outside of this planet” (emphasis in the original). Read more fascinating details in the article, "What If Sodom Has Been Found?"
Being On Guard
Several times in the Gospels, Jesus Christ warned His disciples to constantly be in a state of being spiritually on guard. In a 21st century time of uncertainty and great distraction, this can be a challenge. In his recent Beyond Today TV program, long-time host and pastor, Steve Myers, comments: “We have to ask ourselves, ‘Am I ready? Am I spiritually prepared?’ Because the idea of watch includes to be alert…to know what’s going on in the world.” To learn more about this critical spiritual direction, watch Mr. Myer’s 28-minute program, “Watch Out!”
January 7, 2022
Resilience: How to be Filled with Strength
“The creation of character is hard won,” writes Church president, Victor Kubik, noting the past two years may have been challenging, but remembering what we’ve learned—especially in developing a new capacity to trust God—can be an “optimistic basis for what we expect the coming year to bring.” Read more about critical keys for success in Mr. Kubik’s current Personal “What Have You Learned?”
In 2022: Look Up
A recent R-rated comedic production on Netflix about an improbable apocalyptic comet, titled Don’t Look Up, recently shattered viewing records. Contrary to the dystopia humor in this movie, the year 2022 represents a crucial time to develop new spiritual strength. Beyond Today TV host, Darris McNeely, reflects on the Bible’s direction to actually look up in both his short BT Daily “A Time to Be Resilient” and in a longer sermon, “Where Were You?” Click on the links to see why we should spiritually step back and look up to be successful.
Meet Daily Challenges: Stir Up the Spirit of God
Some 2,000 years ago, the apostle Paul revealed a remarkable fact: We have the ability to increase—to “stir up”—the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our personal lives. How do we do this in an era of change and challenge? Read "How to Stir Up God's Spirit" to leverage important spiritual tools to transform your life in 2022.
December 17, 2021
Helping Victims of Recent Devastating Tornadoes
A record-setting EF4 tornado ripped through Kentucky and other regions on December 11, devastating many communities. Various towns and cities in Kentucky, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Missouri and Illinois were hit, annihilating homes and buildings in Mayfield, Kentucky and elsewhere. Church president, Victor Kubik, interviewed Doug Collison, a church pastor serving in Kentucky, about details on the current Inside United podcast. If you would like to make a financial donation to directly help victims, go to the LifeNets website or donate to the United Church of God Disaster Relief Fund. (Contributions are tax deductible.)
Positively Dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder
When winter moves in, many people develop symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which include low energy, problems sleeping, feeling sluggish, and experiencing difficulty in concentrating. Sound like something you may be experiencing? Here are a few thoughts on how to cope with the annual “wintertime blues.”
How Much is Jesus’ “Pearl of Great Price” Worth to You?
Jesus once told a parable that compared seeking the Kingdom of God to obtaining a precious jewel of exceptional value. As Jesus said of this extraordinary treasure, “When he had found one pearl of great price, [he] went and sold all that he had and bought it” (Matthew 13:46, English Standard Version). In his current column, Church president, Victor Kubik, asks: “How are we valuing our expensive ‘pearl of great price’?” Read it now.
December 10, 2021“But if not…”
In the summer of 1940, more than 350,000 British and French soldiers were trapped on the shores of Dunkirk in northern France. Appealing for help but recognizing that things might not end well, a British naval officer cabled three simple words to London: “But if not.” Quoted from the book of Daniel in the Old Testament, those words today hold powerful meaning for anyone threatened with or undergoing a personal trial. To better understand their application, watch Beyond Today TV host, Darris McNeely, present this short BT Daily video “But if Not” (or read the transcript).
A Surprising Tool to Help with Anxiety
This time of pandemic, economic trials and global uncertainty has taken a major toll on people—with medical professionals reporting record levels of anxiety and anxiety-related conditions. Some people try to be “superhuman” and solve all of their problems by themselves, which can have the counterproductive effect of heightening anxiety further. The Bible offers a surprisingly effective means to counter this. Read more in "A Key to Conquering Anxiety."
What’s Your Source of Power?
When disciples of Jesus Christ are trying to change their lives and accomplish new advances, the first results may be small. But those small advances can quickly become important building blocks and add up, as Church president, Victor Kubik, explains in his weekly “Personal” column “Living Not by Might, But By the Spirit of God.”
December 3, 2021
Bad News Weighing on You? Here’s Advice from Jesus Christ!
With non-stop media coverage of the new “omicron” COVID-19 variant and saber-rattling in Russia, Ukraine, China and elsewhere, it’s easy to worry and become discouraged. The good news is that Jesus Christ offered some specific advice to His disciples—including us living today—on how to deal positively with stress and worry. Church president, Victor Kubik, explains more in his column this week: “Life and ‘a very little thing’”
Join with Christ to Get Through Trials
Facing major personal trials in life? Jesus tells us: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). How does Jesus do this? Beyond Today TV host, Darris McNeely, explains how Christ actually joins with us to share our burdens and help us through difficult trials and times in our lives. Watch the short BT Daily “Two Oxen."
Mission Possible: Helping People with Disabilities
For more than two decades, Patty Sexton has worked through the Mission Possible organization to find employment and create opportunities for more than 1,600 people with mental and physical disabilities. As a young girl, after her younger sister suffered severe injuries in an auto accident, Mrs. Sexton found ways to help her recovering sister engage back with life. This experience led her to help others. She explains: “Fear keeps us from being successful, fear keeps us from trying new things, fear is what stops us.” So, her role in the Mission Possible organization helps people with disabilities overcome fear and become successful. Listen to her inspiring story on the Inside United Podcast “Employment for the Disabled”
Interested in Worshiping with Us?
Multiple thousands of believers assemble together every Sabbath to worship God within the United Church of God—some in large congregations, some that number a few dozen. If you’re looking for a church that encourages living what the Bible—the inspired Word of God—teaches, check out this special online resource, "I'm New," to learn more.
