#ourCOG Daily Brief [September 17, 2025]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for September 17, 2025.

Today’s news highlights significant developments in both U.S. and world affairs. In the U.S., a recent archaeological discovery in Laodicea, a city Jesus addressed, unearthed Christian symbols, prompting reflection on the early church and its relevance today. Simultaneously, a new study reveals the detrimental effects of churches neglecting to preach about sin. Interestingly, despite this, Gen Z and Millennials are surpassing older generations in church attendance, raising questions about the nature of their discipleship. On a more technological note, a former Wall Street executive launched Faithly, a LinkedIn-style app for Christians in ministry, aiming to strengthen the church community. Finally, a compelling article explores the importance of the church engaging with a growingly secular culture and how Gen Z might be key to this. Globally, concerning reports emerged from Indonesia where church construction was halted due to pressure from Muslim groups, and from Nigeria where Fulani herdsmen attacks tragically resulted in the deaths of numerous Christians, including children.

Turning to our featured videos, we have a rebroadcast of a sermon by Bishop Dr. Tony Stewart, followed by powerful messages from Perry Stone on maintaining favor with God, Jentezen Franklin on navigating challenging seasons, and two other inspiring talks.

Our FaithNews RSS feed offers updates on the East Central Hispanic Region’s dedication of new offices, a gathering of faith leaders praying for an end to political violence, Gate Keepers’ church security services, and the reaccreditation of Smoky Mountain Children’s Home.

In prophecy news, recent posts from Rapture Ready highlight concerning political developments. A Democrat candidate’s use of a phrase interpreted as a call for the assassination of President Trump, the Democrats’ amnesia regarding their history of political violence following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, Speaker Johnson’s call out of Rep. Ilhan Omar’s rhetoric on the assassination, and finally Albania’s appointment of an AI as a government official, all point towards a climate of escalating tension and uncertainty.

And finally, in Jewish history, today marks a significant anniversary. September 18th, 825 BCE, saw the beginning of the 14-day dedication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, a project initiated by King David and built by King Solomon. Also on this day in 31 CE, Sejanus, the Roman head of the Praetorian Guard known for his anti-Semitic views, was murdered. Finally, we note the birthdate of Emperor Trajan in 53 CE, whose reign coincided with a significant Jewish revolt in the Diaspora in 115 CE.