Is it true that the late Pastor Herbert W. Armstrong once made a prophecy regarding the year 1975 that never actually came to pass?
Rating: +5
We were baptized into Christ in 1974 by a minister of the WCG after having studied the Bible and HWA’s writings. When we became aware of the booklet 1975 in Prophecy, we were told and understood that it was mere speculation about what could happen. Of course, it soon became evident that the things foretold in the book never did come to pass.
Mr. HWA has stated the following about himself:
“Emphatically I am NOT a prophet, in the sense of one to whom God speaks specially and directly, revealing personally a future event to happen or new truth, or new and special instruction direct from God — separate from, and apart from what is contained in the Bible. And I never have claimed to be.”[Tomorrow's World, February, 1972, pg. 1, Personal from the Editor (Herbert W. Armstrong)]
We feel that HWA was indeed an apostle (not a prophet) who restored lost doctrine. The Church did, under HWA, make certain predictions based on its understanding of the Bible and duality, which was unfortunate, as many members based their lives on prophecy and “being in the know” instead of developing godly character and love.
Therefore, we should learn from our church history and not be overly involved in prophecy. However, those practicing deeds of love will, in due season, understand the significance of world events. But the emphasis must be on “practicing” love which will lead to the correct interpretation of those happenings.
