CHURCH OF GOD

EvangelMARCH 2015

understanding the times • facing fear with faith finding faithfulness • prevailing through prayer

march 2015 Contents volume 105 n issue 3

“I AM STANDING on the spot where the end of the world began,” were the words of a radio reporter after nuclear bombs devastated Hiroshima and Nagasaki in the closing chapter of World War II. Those bombs were dropped 70 years ago, and the world still stands. Today, as Islamic terrorists strive to wipe out Christianity in villages, towns, and entire nations . . . as shooting sprees break out in schools and workplaces across the U. S. . . . as Christian values are lambasted on movie screens, in courtrooms, in col- leges, and elsewhere . . . we wonder, Are we standing in the era when Jesus Christ will finally return and make all things right?

such a time as this 10 Understanding the Times by Bobby G. Duncan Redemption draws near. 12 Finding Faithfulness by M. Darrell Rice Will Jesus find faith on the earth? 14 Fighting Fear with Faith by Mark L. Walker Who is in your boat? 16 Loving Boundaries by David Platt God knows what is best for us. 22 Burden Off My Shoulder by Susan I. Smith Jesus is my healer. columns 24 Prayer That Prevails by Doug Small 5 In Covenant, Mark L. Williams Desperate for divine intervention 7 On My Mind, Lance Colkmire 34 Church of God Chronicles, David Roebuck 26 A Resurgence of Religious Fervor by Lance Colkmire departments Interview with Edley Moodley 4 Ministry Snapshot feature 6 By the Numbers 8 Currents 28 It Happened in Cuba . . . and Beyond 17 GlobalConnect by James M. Beaty 30 Viewpoints The amazing story of Arthur W. Pain 32 People and Events

EVANGEL • mar 2015 3 PUBLICATIONS MINISTRIES DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR MINISTRY SNAPSHOT M. Thomas Propes DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS The Riverside Church of God (Powder Springs, Georgia) bought, assembled, Terry Hart and gave away more than 200 bicycles as a Christmas 2014 outreach. MANAGING EDITOR Lance Colkmire CENTRAL DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Robert McCall CFO Wayne Walston PRINTING DIRECTOR Mike Burnett

EVANGEL STAFF EDITOR Lance Colkmire EXECUTIVE SECRETARY Elaine McDavid COPY EDITOR Esther Metaxas GRAPHIC DESIGNER Bob Fisher

EDITORIAL AND PUBLICATIONS BOARD Tony D. Cooper, Les Higgins, Ray E. Hurt, David W. Jarvis, Cheryl Johns, Antonio Richardson, T. Dwight Spivey

If you have a ministry photo to be considered for this page, send it to [email protected]. INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Mark L. Williams, David M. Griffis, Church of God DECLARATION OF FAITH J. David Stephens, Wallace J. Sibley, M. Thomas Propes WE BELIEVE: 1. In the verbal inspiration of the Bible. CHURCH OF GOD congregations meet through- 2. In one God eternally existing in three persons; namely, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. out the United States and in more than 180 other countries. To find a church and times of 3. That Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of the Father, conceived of the Holy Ghost, and born of the services near you, access the church website, Virgin Mary. That Jesus was crucified, buried, and raised from the dead. That He ascended to heaven www.churchofgod.org, or fax your request to and is today at the right hand of the Father as the Intercessor. 423-478-7616. 4. That all have sinned and come short of the glory of God and that repentance is commanded of God Publication of material in the Evangel does not nec- for all and necessary for forgiveness of sins. essarily imply endorsement of the Church of God. 5. That justification, regeneration, and the new birth are wrought by faith in the blood of Jesus Christ. The Church of God Evangel (ISSN 0745-6778) is 6. In sanctification subsequent to the new birth, through faith in the blood of Christ; through the Word, edited and published monthly. n Church of God and by the Holy Ghost. Publish­ing House, 1080 Montgomery Ave., P.O. Box 2250, Cleveland, TN 37320-2250 n Subscrip- 7. Holiness to be God’s standard of living for His people. tion rates: Single subscription per year $17, Canada 8. In the baptism with the Holy Ghost subsequent to a clean heart. $24, Bundle of 15 per month $17, Canada $28, Bundle of 5 per month $7.50, Canada $11.25 n 9. In speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance and that it is the initial evidence of the Single copy $1.50 n Periodical postage paid at baptism in the Holy Ghost. Cleveland, TN 37311 and at additional mailing 10. In water baptism by immersion, and all who repent should be baptized in the name of the Father, offices n ©2015 Church of God Publications n All and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. rights reserved n POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Evangel, P.O. Box 2250, Cleveland, TN 11. Divine healing is provided for all in the Atonement. 37320-2250. (USPS 112-240) 12. In the Lord’s Supper and washing of the saints’ feet. 13. In the premillennial second coming of Jesus. First, to resurrect the righteous dead and to catch away the living saints to Him in the air. Second, to reign on the earth a thousand years. MEMBER OF THE EVANGELICAL PRESS 14. In the bodily resurrection; eternal life for the righteous, and eternal punishment for the wicked. ASSOCIATION AND THE INTERNATIONAL PENTECOSTAL PRESS ASSOCIATION 4 EVANGEL • mar 2015 IN COVENANT mark l. williams general overseer peace in a troubled world N THE HEARTS of most people, Then there are the challenges, per- there is a deep hunger for peace. sonal tragedies, health crises, and losses In Hebrew, the word for “peace” is that you and I have experienced and shalom—a sense of wholeness, com- many are living with now. pleteness, security, salvation, well-being For many today, there are ques- IIin the presence of God through His cov- tions without answers, sickness without enant. In Greek, the language of the New health, portraits without paint, and flow- Testament, “peace” is predominantly the ers without perfume. Deep inside there “Let not word eirene, which carries with it many is a lonely heart, aching to be loved and of the definitions of shalom, but adds to longing for hope. your it a sense of rest and tranquillity. Here is good news: God has sent His We look at our world and it seems Son to bring peace to a world filled with heart be all of creation is groaning and travailing. violence and corruption, oppression, and Internationally, our world is filled with darkness. troubled, tension and maelstroms of all kinds. We It was for a time of gloom and despair see peril written in the headlines and on that Isaiah predicted, “The people who neither the faces of world leaders. walked in darkness have seen a great In recent months, we were shocked light; those who dwelt in the land of the let it be over multiple assassinations by radicals shadow of death, upon them a light has in Europe. We watched in horror at news shined” (Isa. 9:2).* Zacharias declared, reports of the Taliban executing school- “The Dayspring from on high has visited afraid” children in Pakistan, and of ISIS aggres- us; to give light to those who sit in dark- sively moving in northern Iraq and Syria. ness and the shadow of death, to guide (John 14:27). We saw tensions escalating between our feet into the way of peace “ (Luke Israel and Hamas at Gaza. In Nigeria, 1:78-79). extremists detonated bombs killing The peace foretold by the prophets hundreds of people, and abducted 276 and fulfilled in the Gospels is more girls and women from a school. We have than a pact, a contract, an accord, or an seen Ukrainians fighting back over Rus- armistice. Peace is a person—the Prince sia’s annexation of Crimea. We felt panic of Peace, Jesus Christ. This peace “sur- over Ebola virus ravaging through West passes all understanding” (Phil. 4:7). Africa, and listened as the World Health This peace is “perfect” (Isa. 26:3). Jesus Organization declared a world health achieved this peace through the blood of emergency due to the spread of polio to His cross. 10 countries of the world when it was on Peace with God. Peace with others. the verge of being wiped out. Inner peace. Jesus promises it to each of Here in the United States, our His followers: hearts have been torn over the death Peace I leave with you, My peace I give of unarmed black men and youth that to you; not as the world gives do I give to sparked waves of protests and, in some you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither cases, violence and looting in the streets. let it be afraid (John 14:27). We were dismayed at the shootings of police officers in New York City and * All scriptures are from the New King attacks in other places. James Version.

EVANGEL • mar 2015 5 BY THE NUMBERS

CHANGING BORDER APPREHENSIONS ABSENT MOM OR DAD ABOUT 229,000 MEXICANS were apprehended by the U.S. Border LESS THAN HALF (46%) of U.S. kids younger than 18 Patrol in fiscal year 2014 compared with 257,000 non-Mexicans. Taken years of age are living in a home with two married parents together, total apprehensions of Mexican and non-Mexican unauthorized in their first marriage. This is a marked change from 1960, immigrants (more than 486,000) were up 16% over the previous year. when 73% of children fit this description, and 1980, when These numbers are dramatically different than in 2007 when Mexican 61% did, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of apprehensions totaled 809,000, compared with just 68,000 non-Mexi- recently released survey (ACS) and census data. cans. The last time Mexican apprehensions were as low as they are now was in 1970, when 219,000 Mexicans were apprehended. In 1970, non- Mexican apprehensions totaled just 12,000. How the American Family Has Changed Percentage of U.S. children living with . . . More Non-Mexicans than Mexicans Apprehended in 2014 Border Patrol apprehensions, 1970-2014

1.75 million 1.50 MEXICANS 1.25 1.00 73 .75 61 Two married .50 257,473 parents in their .25 219,254 NON-MEXICANS 46 first marriage 11,862 229,178 0 ’70 ’80 ’90 ’00 ’ 10 ’ 14 NOTE: 1976 covers 15 months due to change in fiscal year period. SOURCE: U.S. Border Patrol apprehensions table, FY 2000-2014. Immigration and Naturalization Service statistical yearbooks, FY 1970-2000. 1960 1980 2013 Two married 14 16 15 parents, one or both remarried salaries 9 4 19 in the U.S. Single parent 34 Clergy...... $47,580 4 Elementary & middle school teacher...... $56,630 Lawyer...... $131,990 No parent Librarian...... $57,500 5 Police & sheriff patrol officer...... $58,200 at home Social worker...... $48,370 NOTE: Based on children ages 17 and younger. “Married parents” refer to those in a Substitute teacher...... $29,350 heterosexual marriage only. In 2013, the “single parent” category includes the small Waiters and waitresses...... $20,880 share of children living with two parents who are cohabitating or in a same-sex mar- riage. Data on same-sex marriage and cohabitation is not available for earlier years. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (averages from May 2013) SOURCE: Pew Research Center

6 EVANGEL • mar 2015 ON MY MIND lance colkmire editor SPIRITUAL DECEPTION HANK YOU all for your kind God home, but now believes that various Responding to the ghost question words and energies,” said a rela- religions can lead to God. His wife is a online, a man named Mike posted: tive of mine following the passing Wiccan, and when she overheard me say “I don’t believe in heaven and I don’t Tof her mother earlier this year. I believe Jesus Christ is the only way to believe in hell. I have not seen either of She was referring to psychic energies— God, she was visibly upset. them and have never met anyone who natural and invisible forces which suppos- My two personal references reveal has either—but I have seen ghosts and edly surround all living things. my concern about Wicca, but it’s not I know plenty of other people who have This woman was brought up in a only witchcraft that troubles me. I have a seen them too.” Church of God home and once was a fol- friend in a northern state who once was In 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11, the lower of Christ. Now, however, she does a strong Bible teacher but now subscribes Bible warns about a “powerful delu- not even celebrate the birth of Christ, for to the concept of universal consciousness sion” fueled by “all kinds of counterfeit she is a Wiccan. (which Wiccans also believe): “People, ani- miracles, signs, and wonders” that will Wiccans typically worship nature, per- mals, and plants are all connected to the lead to the destruction of those who sonified as Mother Earth and Father Sky. hidden energy of universal consciousness refuse “to love the truth and so be Individuals also venerate various gods and saved” (NIV). goddesses from all types of religions. In 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11, To love “the truth”—which is record- Wiccans practice “some form of ritual the Bible warns about ed in the Scriptures and personified in magic, almost always considered good or a “powerful delusion” the living Word (Jesus Christ)—we must constructive. Some are solitary practitioners; fueled by “all kinds of know what the Bible says. Be certain: counterfeit miracles, signs, others belong to covens” (Merriam-Webster. • Only the Creator, not the creation, and wonders” (NIV). com). There are many dozen Wiccan groups, is to be worshiped (Rom. 1:25). loosely connected, around the U.S. that permeates the entire universe and • Reincarnation is not real—we die Followers live by the Wiccan rede ‘wires’ all of us together” (New Age Directo- only once (Heb. 9:27). (“council” or “advice”), which can be sum- ry). Consequently, he has lost faith in the • The practice of witchcraft is sinful marized, “Do what you like, so long as it’s uniqueness and divinity of Jesus Christ. (Ezek. 13:20; Acts 19:18-20). not going to hurt anyone.” The idea of universal conscious- • If we live simply to indulge ourselves, “All acts of love and pleasure are my ness has permeated popular media for we will be destroyed (Gal. 6:8). rituals,” writes a Wiccan who calls herself decades—including the mental telepathy • Jesus Christ is the “one and only” Dragonsong. “We were born on this incred- in Star Trek and “the Force” in Star Wars. Son of God (John 3:16 NIV). ible planet in order to savor it, as well as The popular children’s cartoons Avatar: serve the divine. If it makes you feel good, The Last Airbender and The Legend of For the sake of Christians who have and it doesn’t hurt anyone, then go for it! Korra also convey this unbiblical idea. In been deceived and individuals who have It’s your sacred duty to enjoy yourself!” the ongoing TV series Supernatural, two never accepted Christ, are we interced- Besides the obvious absence of a list brothers follow their father’s footsteps as ing in prayer and leading faithful Chris- of “thou shalt not’s,” what else attracts “hunters” fighting monsters, demons, and tian lives? individuals to Wicca? Radio host Steve gods that roam the earth. Russo identifies tolerance (regarding sexual In the U.S., 24 percent of the pub- orientation, religious beliefs, and marital lic overall and 22 percent of Christians status); concern for the environment (feeling say they believe in reincarnation—that closely connected to the earth and cycles people will be reborn in this world repeat- of nature); flexible involvement (performing edly—which Wiccans believe. Similar rituals anytime and anywhere); the sense of numbers (25% of the public overall, 23% power (casting spells); and sexual equality. of Christians) believe in astrology. Fifteen Four ways to A couple of years ago at a family percent have consulted a fortune-teller or contact the editor: gathering, I was speaking with another a psychic; 18 percent say they have seen • [email protected] • 423-478-7592 relative about the physical struggles he or been in the presence of a ghost (Pew • Church of God Evangel on Facebook is facing. He, too, grew up in a Church of Forum Research, 2009 and 2013). • Box 2250, Cleveland, TN 37320-2250

EVANGEL • mar 2015 7 CURRENTS

The purpose of CURRENTS is to inform readers of trends and events influencing the culture. young skeptics opposing good news clubs n A GROUP OF ATHEISTS, humanists, The Good News Club, a project of of a book written by Katherine Stewart. and skeptics in Rochester, New York, has Child Evangelism Fellowship, had 4,225 Stewart describes the organization as started its own after-school program— clubs attended by 174,174 students as of “pizza evangelists” proselytizing children a Young Skeptics club featuring science, 2013, according to its website. through parties and other recreational logic, and learning activities—to counter Rochester is not the first community to events. the local Good News Club sponsored by organize against Good News Club. In sever- In the same interview, Stewart said Child Evangelism Fellowship. al communities—including Seattle, Denver, she thought it would be “a bad idea” for Young Skeptics was started by the and Portland (Oregon)—critics have lob- atheists to set up alternative “atheist Atheist Community of Rochester—the bied school administrators to ban the Good clubs” because they, too, could be seen as same group that offered the first athe- News Club, claiming it conducts deceptive proselytizing young children. ist invocation before a town meeting marketing, authoritarian conditioning, Regardless of the perception, from a after the Supreme Court ruled last May shame, and fear indoctrination. legal standpoint, both types of clubs may that public meetings could begin with sec- Child Evangelism Fellowship has be on solid ground. In 2001, the Supreme tarian prayers. responded to critics before. “It is clearly Court ruled in Good News Club vs. Mil- Both clubs are based at Fairbanks explained on the registration form that ford Central School that when public Road Elementary School in Churchville. Child Evangelism Fellowship sponsors the schools open their facilities to after-school Calling itself the “Better News Club,” Good News Clubs,” CEF vice president programs, they cannot discriminate Young Skeptics is thought to be the Moises Esteves wrote in a 2013 letter to against those programs based on the con- first non-theistic after-school club for the Atlantic Monthly after it published an tent of their speech.—RNS elementary-aged children founded as a article critical of the Good News Club. direct response to Good News Club. Kevin “It should be obvious to any parent what persecuted find Davis, speaking for the skeptics, said, “It the clubs are teaching and the parent can in isn’t atheism for kids; it doesn’t address withdraw his or her children or continue safe houses debunking religion because they are little attendance as desired.” england kids and we don’t want to use the same The pushback against Good News n AS A 17-YEAR-OLD convert to Christian- tactics as the Good News Club by tell- Clubs and Child Evangelism Fellowship, ity living in Pakistan, Ali (not his real name) ing them what to think. Our focus is on based in Warrenton, Missouri, gained was stabbed in the chest and left for dead science-based critical thinking.” momentum after the 2012 publication by Muslims upset he had rejected their faith. When he fled to England, his assail- ants tracked him down and threatened him. An encounter with an Anglican priest led to temporary lodgings with a Christian family interested in offering refuge to Christian converts from Islam. “I can’t tell you where I live—not the town, not even which part of the country,” Ali said. “I want friends but am nervous about forming friendships in case, at a moment’s notice, I have to move house again.” Ali, now 23, works part-time at a supermarket. He is among dozens of ex- Muslims living in safe houses, most of them created by the nonprofit Christian Concern, a London-based organization that wants to infuse British society with a biblical worldview.

8 EVANGEL • mar 2015 Leena, Anniesa, Nissar, Sarah, Kubra, Issar, and Miriam Hussain—a Christian family in Yorkshire, England, who have been threatened with death for converting from Islam

There are over 2.8 million Muslims in England. Christian Concern believes thou- sands of them are anxious to convert and in need of housing so they can get back on their feet after suffering verbal—and sometimes physical—attacks from fami- lies, friends, and coworkers. “We are motivated by a deep sense of love and compassion for those that feel trapped in a situation from which they cannot escape,” said Andrea Williams, the group’s chief executive. “The penalty for converts at best is to be cut off from their family; at worst they face death,” she added. “This is happening not just in Sudan and Nigeria but in A woman who left Islam to become a identified because she had been physically East London. The government has failed Christian said she is living in a flat made attacked by other women. to deal with the rise in anti-Christian available by a retired man who had a spare Ali, the 23-year-old Pakistani native, sentiment.” room in a Victorian house near Bradford. said he wants one day to return to Shokit Ali Sadiq, a 46-year-old father “I will stay here for the time being,” Pakistan.“My life’s ambition,” he said, “is of five, said that when he converted to she said, “hoping and praying to Jesus to return and start a charity that would Christianity a member of the church he that one day my own family will have me provide safe houses for Muslims who con- attends gave him a home. He asked that back,” she said, asking that she not be vert to Christianity.”—RNS his church not be identified to avoid harassment from the Muslim community. “There are hundreds of people out likely trial site opened to public there who want to leave Islam,” said n THE SITE WHERE many scholars according to Josephus, the Jewish histo- Sadiq. “But they’re frightened of making believe Jesus was put on trial is now open rian and Roman citizen of the era. “It was their desire known.” to the public for the first time. Located enormous, with a lot of gold and silver Sadiq was born in England but grew up in the Old City of Jerusalem, the spot and running water and guest quarters,” in Pakistan. At age 6, he returned to Eng- is within easy walking distance of the he said. land and rejoined his strict Muslim family. Christian Quarter and Church of the Holy The ruins uncovered by the Antiqui- “One day in the mosque I prayed to Sepulchre, where tradition holds Jesus ties Authority were discovered in the area Isa (Jesus in the Koran) and asked Him was buried. described by Josephus and included a to send me a woman who really loved me. Discovered under an abandoned complex sewage system.—RNS Soon afterwards, I was offered a job in prison building that is part of the Tower [the British territory of] Jersey where I of David Museum grounds, the trial site is The Tower met my wife to be, Carla, a Roman Catho- one piece of a vast excavation undertaken of David in lic from Portugal. . . . When I converted by archaeologists from 1999 to 2000 but Jerusalem to Christianity, I was beaten by men with sealed off for the past 14 years largely due baseball bats. I was in a coma for several to lack of funding. days, but today I am all right and Jesus The excavations include what may is now using me to convert Muslims to be the foundations of the palace of King Christianity.” Herod. It was here, many scholars and Church leaders in several different archaeologists believe, that the Roman parts of Yorkshire say they are opening up governor Pontius Pilate put Jesus on trial. church halls—even parts of churches— Archaeologist Amit Re’em of the Israel and installing showers and beds to make Antiquities Authority said the palace was welcome Muslims who convert. built at the end of the first century B.C.,

EVANGEL • mar 2015 9 by bobby g. duncan understanding the times Why are terrorism, religious extremism, and moral corruption increasing exponentially?

HAT’S HAPPENING to our continued for 6,000 years. Paul noted time that literally will surpass the evil and once God-fearing America? this wicked progression by saying evil violence of these governments? How can a relatively young men would only grow more evil (2 Tim. nation such as ours—one 3:13). As emphatic as his statement is, we Yes. Just ahead, there awaits the prophetical W rendezvous with unprecedented disaster. built on the Judeo-Christian ethic, and still cannot conceive the full weight of its once touted as a “shining city on a hill”— meaning, or of Christ’s meaning when He However, this trouble and distress will take such a rapid nose-dive into spiritual spoke of great tribulation. not descend on the earth overnight; the darkness and moral depravity? How is it escalation of evil in our world occurs How could a nation be more violent than that we have given up the high ground gradually. We are witnessing humanity the brutal Assyrian Empire, or fiercer on the world stage and have plunged into march toward a kind of destruction than the Nazi regime that orchestrated political chaos and economic uncertainty? unparalleled in history. the extermination of millions of Jews and Furthermore, how is it that an always- other “undesirables”? How could there be As deeply disturbing as today’s violent world seems to be reaching new a future day that would see more ferocity unprovoked slaughter of innocents levels of violence, often fueled by the than that perpetrated by the Communists by Muslim extremists, as troubling perverted ideologies of religious extremists? under Stalin, Lenin, and Mao Zedong, or as the wanton beheading of Western Although these questions trouble us that could conceivably be more atrocious journalists, and as alarming as the deeply, they are not questions without than the Khmer Rouge’s Pol Pot, who was planned destruction of America and Israel answers. However, if we are not careful, responsible for nearly a million of his own are, these are but precursors of what is to our human sensibilities override our faith, people being massacred in the infamous come. Radical Islamist terrorists with their and panic sets in. Jesus warns of this killing fields of Cambodia? Do the words grossly distorted theology will continue to condition in Luke 21:25-26: “There will be of Jesus really mean there will come a smite fear into the hearts of people and signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth” (NKJV).

When Jesus delivered His discourse on the end times only days before His crucifixion, He informed His disciples that the intensifying deception, wars, natural disasters, persecutions, and family dysfunctions of the last days would only be “the beginning of sorrows” (Matt. 24:8). These distresses, He added, would usher in a period of “great tribulation” unlike anything happening before it or anything following it (v. 21). Really? Is that possible? Escalating Evil Our world has been a vicious and violent place ever since Cain rose up against his brother Abel and coldheartedly murdered him—the direct result of disobedience to God. At that moment, the human race began a visible downward spiral that has

10 EVANGEL • mar 2015 nations around the world by perpetrating stand firmly thereon. Granted, in the us, threatening our security and sanity. unimaginable violence against anyone midst of increasing hostility among During such times, we ask with David, who opposes their twisted view of God nations, cultures, families, and people in “Where are You?” And with David, we find and the hereafter. general—and among decreasing morality comfort in realizing He is always present, before God—it sometimes seems we are as the psalmist declares in verse 5: “But I Increasing Immorality fighting a losing battle. From the human trust in your unfailing love” (NLT). Juxtaposed with the increasing savagery perspective, when we consider the spiritual, We take comfort in knowing that the of man is the prophesied breakdown social, political, and economic conditions abject wickedness in the world will not, of a moral code of conduct. Just as the in our world, God seems either to have lost and cannot, dim the bright light of Jesus Bible predicts the growing violence in the control or simply abandoned us. Christ and the glorious good news of His world, it also predicts the dramatic decline Searching for God forgiveness and cleansing. We are also in morality. Wasn’t this the condition comforted in knowing He will never forsake existing in the days of Noah and in the Indelibly etched in my mind is an episode His children. Yes, God is forever in control. last days of Sodom and Gomorrah? And that occurred when I was three or four Evil conditions in the world do not speak did not Christ liken the time of His return years old. My loving and protective of His abandonment, but rather that His to these evil populaces (Luke 17:26-30)? parents, along with three supposedly forewarnings are legitimate. God did not attentive older brothers, departed for design the fulfillment of these prophecies to As a nation, we have moved from home following a revival service, leaving discourage us, but rather to strengthen our supporting traditional (biblical) marriage me asleep on a wooden pew in our small faith in Him as the omnipotent God. and family to an all-out embracing of church sanctuary. same-sex “marriage”—to the point that Look Up our culture now identifies anyone who When I woke up, I fretfully looked around opposes such a relationship as intolerant the partially darkened building (some of After Jesus discussed the unprecedented and on the wrong side of history. We the lights had been turned off) to discover evil that would befall the earth in the last have become a people with undisciplined everyone had departed except the pastor days, He concluded, “Now when these minds and unbridled passions. Just as and the evangelist. Realizing my family things begin to happen, look up and lift sexual immorality played a leading role was gone, I panicked, bursting into up your heads, because your redemption in the collapse of kingdoms throughout uncontrollable tears. draws near” (Luke 21:28 NKJV). history, so today the sexualizing of our Mercifully, at that very moment, Dad Global terrorism is worsening, but own culture portends the end of America stepped through the back door of the redemption draws near. Religious as we have known it. sanctuary in search of one fearful little extremists grossly pervert the truth, but Clear Reasons boy. I will never forget the overwhelming redemption draws near. Evil men grow sense of relief that swept over me when I more evil, but redemption draws near. Again, why are terrorism, religious saw the face of my father and the telltale Moral decadence might be the order of extremism, and moral corruption grin on his face—a grin that probably the day, but redemption draws near. increasing so exponentially? The answers signaled relief in him to find me under the are not complicated. First, the departure watchful eye of the pastor. In these threatening times, we need not from the faith gives rise to these panic nor be afraid. Christ frequently corrupting influences. Second, God allows Sometimes, it seems that our heavenly charged His disciples to “fear not.” David and uses these events and conditions Father has mysteriously forgotten declared, “The Lord is my light and my to call His people to repentance. Third, us, having inexplicably vanished. Our salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is these maladies fulfill biblical prophecy emotions shout that He is nowhere near. the strength of my life; of whom shall I and prepare for earth’s final conflicts that, Even David, psalmist and king, once be afraid?” (Ps. 27:1). If we fix our eyes ultimately, will usher in the Millennium. gloomily asked, “O Lord, how long will steadfastly on Christ, He will deliver us you forget me? Forever? How long will from every evil. “Let us run with endurance Although we can draw close to God, touch you look the other way?” (Ps. 13:1 NLT). the race that is set before us, looking unto lives, and do the work of His kingdom, Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” At some point, every child of God has we cannot change the course of this age. (Heb. 12:1-2 NKJV). Jesus makes it clear that “all these things grappled with His apparent absence, His must come to pass” (Matt. 24:6). elusiveness, His seeming preoccupation Bobby G. Duncan is pastor of the Parma with other concerns. We’ve wanted to Park, Ohio, Church of God, where he has As believers trying to negotiate these see Him, but could not; we’ve wanted to served since 1994. He is author of Is Truth troubled waters today, we must find hear Him, but silence sometimes hung Enough? (Pathway Press, 2013) and several the common ground of truth and like a dark and depressing cloud over other books. [email protected]

EVANGEL • mar 2015 11 David Metzger finding by m. darrell rice faithfulness E OFTEN LOOK at in proclaiming, “As for me and my house, the tragedies of our we will serve the Lord” (Josh. 24:15). culture and world and assume it is the result A Love Issue of a faithless genera- What are we saying “yes” to when we Wtion. But where do we draw such crude affirm our faithfulness? What is biblical and baseless conclusions? Frankly, I am faithfulness? It is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, convinced we have no reason to believe according to Galatians 5:22. any generation is any less “faithful” than Michael Reynolds another is. The dictionary gives the technical defini- tion: “to follow through with a commit- Perhaps it’s what we’re looking for—like ment regardless of difficulty.” Bruce Deel the story of two shoe-company represen- tatives who visited a potential new market Several years ago I heard Pastor John David for their product in an underdeveloped Maxwell say, “Faithfulness is love hanging Simmons country. The first wrote back to the boss, on. If I’m not following through, it’s not a “It’s a bust because no one wears shoes ‘commitment’ issue, it’s a ‘love’ issue.” in this country.” The other wrote and announced the unlimited possibilities: “No His point is that falling in love with Jesus, one was currently wearing shoes in this and nurturing that love relationship, emerging market. Everyone needs shoes!” takes care of all commitment and faithful- ness questions. If faithfulness lags, I must Present Potential check on my love for the Lord.

Jesus offers a telling parable in Luke Listen to what the Bible says. Here are 18, where a persistent widow continually some of the scriptural challenges to be approaches an unjust judge, begging for faithful: justice and intervention. Because of her faithfulness in asking, the judge relents • Be faithful in stewardship (1 Cor. 4:2). and grants her request. To drive home • Be faithful in service (Eph. 6:21). the point of the parable without further • Be faithful to one’s family (1 Tim. 5:8). explanation, Jesus asks, “Nevertheless, • Be faithful in witnessing (Rev. 21:5). when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” The ques- • Be faithful in prayer (Rom. 12:12). tion implies an answer in the negative. • Be faithful in ministry (Col. 1:7). However, the potential is there to answer • Be faithful in following the Lord in the affirmative. (Rev. 17:14). James Decanter Call me a dreamer and visionary, but I • Be faithful to follow instruction know countless Christ-followers from (Prov. 23:12). “When the Son of their teens through their 90s—six gen- • Be faithful in the truth (3 John 3). Man comes, will He erations by some standards—that would love to have been in the crowd that day to • Be faithful even in times of persecu- really find faith announce their answer. Though they may tion (Rev. 13:10). on the earth?” not answer for every generation past and • Be faithful unto death and receive the (Luke 18:8 NKJV). future, I sincerely believe they join Joshua crown of life (Rev. 2:10).

12 EVANGEL • mar 2015 This list is daunting, but with God all in 1997 and decided to move his family I think of an African-American pastor things are possible as we love Jesus more (wife and five daughters) into the inner- who studied denominations and chose the and more. city of Atlanta to reach the “least and Church of God as his destiny and place of the lost.” Bruce Deel established a model ministry. Michael D. Reynolds submitted Inspirational Examples community-development ministry that to culturally challenging requirements to As with most questions of faith, we’re has lifted thousands out of poverty and meet the demands of his newfound church all looking for evidence to support this hopelessness by the power of the gospel family, and then planted a Church of God abstract concept. Are there real people liv- and proven social, medical, and job- that is a model of urban ministry in the ing today whom we can look to for inspi- training programs. Faithfulness! nation’s third largest city. Faithfulness! ration and example? I think of an unheralded pastor in North When our eyes open to the beauty of How Do We Develop Georgia who, in his nearly 60 years of human engagement in the activity of fol- Faithfulness in Our Lives? ministry, likely never led a single church lowing Jesus, examples abound. That’s something like an apple tree say- for more than two years. However, Roy ing, “How do I develop apples?” An apple Horton repeatedly accepted pastorates I think of the lead elder at a small church tree produces apples because that’s what of broken and challenging situations, in Oklahoma where I recently helped apple trees do. brought stability and growth, then moved facilitate a pastoral transition. When I As Christians, we are branches attached on to the next fragmented handful of first received his name, title, and contact to the “true vine,” Jesus Christ (John 15:1). people that could hardly qualify for the information, I assumed he was an elderly Producing the fruit of the Spirit, which title “church”—almost always to the gentleman, but I discovered he is younger includes faithfulness, is the natural thing to criticism and chagrin of those advocating than me and has been in this church his do. We don’t have to sit around analyzing long-term pastorates. His legacy is leaving it. However, we do have to guard against entire life. Remarkably, this was the 27th behind dozens of healthy core-groups that time he had been through a pastoral detaching from the Vine or letting some disease destroy our fruitfulness. How? are today thriving, vibrant churches. He change. Through all the ups and downs of First, we must realize temptations will was an “intentional interim” way before five decades of church involvement, David come. As surely as Jesus was tempted to the term was invented. Faithfulness! Simmons has weathered the good times be unfaithful, we will be tempted to be and lean times as a portrait of faithful- unfaithful—in our marriage, in our relation- I think of an anonymous layperson with ness, and is still enthusiastic about the ship with the Lord, and in the church. That’s a heart for missions that began support- future of his local church. Faithfulness! what Satan does. He will tempt us. ing a national worker decades ago and Second, we must seek the Holy Spirit’s asked the Lord to increase his ability to I think of my former pastor in Little Rock, reinforcement and develop regular, posi- give, then tested the Lord by adding a Arkansas (1978-82), who determined to tive, spiritual habits—loving Jesus more and new national worker every year. At last explore the potential of improving his more. count, he was supporting more than 30 preaching style and content and began Third, we need to get back up when we national workers monthly and has been fall or are knocked down. writing a full manuscript of each message. responsible for raising hundreds of thou- In doing so, James Decanter demonstrat- While the above examples of faithful Christians inspire us, our celebration of their sands of dollars to advance the Kingdom ed faithfulness to the Word, the chosen accomplishments must include an embrac- through Church of God World Missions. text, developing disciples, and pastoral ing of their brokenness. Their visions and Faithfulness! care. Faithfulness! goals were often met with resistance and failure. However, their love for Jesus and His I think of my own children—who are now I think of a retired Navy chaplain who leading brought a response of faithfulness adults with families of their own—who determined to extend ministry after to achieve their destiny. demonstrate faithfulness to their gifts and retirement from the military. David Do you feel you’ve been knocked down, abilities by pursuing educational oppor- Metzger accepted a pastorate in Beloit or maybe that you’ve fallen? Have you been tunities, making godly career choices, (Wisconsin), earned a doctorate in theolo- irresponsible? Are you tempted to quit? and raising their children in the fear and gy, persevered through the highs and lows Don’t stop. Keep pressing on. Hang in there, admonition of the Lord. Faithfulness! of pastoral ministry, grew the church, because “faithfulness is love hanging on.” influenced a city, and continues to thrive. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, Look around—find faithfulness. Faithfulness! peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Gal. M. Darrell Rice is administrative bishop of I think of my associate pastor who left the 5:22-23 NKJV). the Church of God in the Heartland Region. comforts of suburban living and ministry [email protected]

EVANGEL • mar 2015 13 HEN MY SON Justin was about 15 years old, he was not feeling well one night Wand couldn’t sleep. So he came to our bedroom about two o’clock in the morning to ask if there was anything he could take to make him feel better.

It was a cold night and he had a blanket wrapped around him and over his head. He did not turn on any lights, and quietly bent over his mom to whisper in her ear. However, as he was bending over, Udella sensed this presence hovering above her and she opened her eyes. She saw this dark, hooded figure moving toward her by mark l. walker face, and she screamed! fighting fear with faith Out of a dead sleep, I sat straight up in Jesus Christ was asleep in the boat as the The obvious question then becomes, the bed and started screaming too, but storm raged, and His disciples awakened “How do I respond to fear-invoking cir- I had no idea why! Justin fell flat on his Him by pleading, “Teacher, don’t you cumstances with properly placed faith?” back, which sent the blanket flying in the care if we drown?” (v. 38 NIV). Christ Three Fear-and-Faith air. He yelled, “Mom, it’s me, Justin!” performed a miracle by calming the wind, Observations waves, and rain with a single word. He My son, my wife, and I were shouting, then asked two peculiar questions: “Why 1. The object of my faith must be greater yelling, and screaming at . . . well . . . noth- are you so afraid? Do you still have no than the size of my storm. ing. For about 30 seconds, we were expe- faith?” (v. 40 NIV). riencing sheer terror when there wasn’t Most of Christ’s followers accompanying anything terrorizing us. We were reacting Christ didn’t ask, “Why are you afraid?” Him across the Sea of Galilee knew how to to perceived fear. He asked, “Why are you so afraid?” Christ weather a storm, but this one was larger than their training, experience, and exper- Fear has several meanings: wasn’t questioning their fear, but their level of fear. He was asking, “Why has tise. It was beyond their capability and • to have an unpleasant feeling of anxi- your fear level reached this height?” They confidence to handle. ety aroused by impending danger, were overreacting—they were having an My family discovered the sudden wind of real or imagined unhealthy fear response. • to be cowardly and timid change when, in 1980, my older brother and only sibling, Paul Dana Walker, was • to have concern, anxiety, and Christ didn’t downplay the size of the killed in a head-on collision two days after nervousness storm. Instead, He asked, “Do you still have no faith?” Thanksgiving. As a family of pastors and • to show reverence, respect, and awe ministers, we had counseled, taught, and (Encarta). Their unhealthy fear was not a storm preached to people that they can trust Fear and Faith issue, but a faith issue. When we place Christ in such painful and challenging Christ’s two questions together, He times. We were highly trained and expe- The Sea of Galilee is a freshwater lake seemed to be saying to the disciples, “Your rienced in spiritual and faith matters. But approximately 8 miles wide and 13 miles fear has reached such a level that you’re now our life-storm was greater than our long. Because of its position beneath the reacting as if you have no faith.” training and skill. The trustworthy Jesus we surrounding hills, a sudden shift in wind talked about now had to become the Jesus can create a wind-tunnel effect bringing Unhealthy fear will arise when (1) we we fully trusted in. Our sermons weren’t on a violent storm without warning. In don’t trust what can sustain us, or (2) enough; we needed Him alive and real. Mark 4, such a storm seems to have blown we are trusting in something that cannot in as Christ and His followers headed sustain us. Our faith is either lacking or He didn’t disappoint. Just as He proved across the lake. misplaced. Himself to His followers that day on the

14 EVANGEL • mar 2015 sea, we discovered Jesus is larger than any on what is seen, but on what is unseen. I heard the story of an elderly woman life-storm. For what is seen is temporary, but what is who lived in London, England, during unseen is eternal” (v. 18 NIV). World War II. The possibility of air raids 2. Faith in Christ leads to more than tem- was imminent, so her adult children porary solutions to temporary problems Paul did not instruct us to avoid looking at attempted to convince her to stay with —it leads to an eternal life plan for an our storm; he instructed us not to become them outside the city, but she refused. eternal destiny. fixated—consumed and obsessed—by it. She pointed to a plaque hanging on the Instead, we should become consumed and wall and said, “You know that’s what I live Even though the fear of Christ’s disciples obsessed with the eternal person, purpose, by, and I’m not leaving,” The plaque read, apparently overshadowed their faith, they and promises of God. “Don’t worry. It may never happen.” knew where to turn for help. Too many people call on Christ only when they have Shifting From Fear to Faith Her children reluctantly gave in and left a problem. Until they have a storm they Rest in the One who is leading. Jesus Christ her there. Soon, the city was bombed as can’t handle, they want Christ to stay initiated the trip across the lake, and He they feared. It was days before the wom- asleep and let them steer their own lives. said they were going to “the other side” an’s children could make it to her apart- ment building, only to find her section of Christ wants to be more than a temporary (Mark 4:35). Christ’s promises will come the building quite damaged. They feared problem-solver; He wants to be our eter- to pass, and no storm can stop them. the worst. nal, abundant life-giver. However, when they arrived at their I remember visiting a man fighting cancer. mother’s apartment, she was sitting in her He had just received word from the doc- rocking chair rocking away. One of her tors that they could not do anything else Jesus said, children pointed to her plaque that now for him. Barring a miracle, he would soon hung crooked on the wall and mockingly die. I was trying to comfort him, but he “Let us go questioned, “What do you have to say ended up comforting me. My friend said: about your ‘don’t worry’ plaque now?” “Pastor, Christ is my life and should He over to heal me, I will spend the remainder of my She jumped up and said, “Oh, I forgot!” days glorifying Him by telling of His great the other She turned the plaque over. The other side love and power. If He chooses for me to side.” read, “Don’t worry. You can take it.” remain ill for a longer period of time, I will glorify Him until my death, testifying of Try to resist immediately expecting the His sustaining comfort and grace. If He worst; it may not happen. If it does, rest chooses for me to die soon, I will be with If Christ is my Leader, then He has in the One who leads. brought me to where I am, no matter how Him forever and my death will glorify Realize who is in your boat. Christ leading great the storm. If I trust in His sovereign- Him. No matter what, Pastor, I can’t lose!” His disciples through the storm brought ty, He can take any storm and work it to them to a fuller understanding of His 3. Fear sees the temporary ruling the my greatest good and His greatest glory. I greatness. They declared, “Who is this? eternal; faith sees the eternal ruling the can rest in Him. temporary. Even the wind and the waves obey him!” Resist expecting the worst. “A furious squall (v. 41 NIV). The disciples let the temporary storm seem came up, and the waves broke over the Why did the winds, water, and rain obey greater than the eternal Creator who was in boat, so that it was nearly swamped” (v. Him? They obeyed because He made their boat. Fear tends to exalt the temporal 37 NIV). above the eternal, so we begin to believe our them. life-storm is greater than the resources we Was the disciples’ boat taking on water? Do we know who is in life’s boat with us? have in God. Faith looks to the eternal God Yes. Were things looking bleak? Abso- Are we getting to know Him, or is He just who is greater than the storm. lutely. However, the disciples didn’t wake someone we know about? up Christ and say, “Hey, we are taking on In 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, the apostle water!” They said, “Don’t you care if we Christ said, “Let’s go over to the other Paul says our earthly troubles are tem- drown?” (v. 38 NIV). side.” Do we trust Him? porary and light compared to the eternal existence that awaits us in Christ. He Why do we expect the worst in adversity? Mark L. Walker is lead pastor of the North even suggests that our temporary storms Here’s a news flash: “The worst may not Mount Paran Church of God in Marietta, actually work for us a better eternal life- happen.” And if it does, we can rest in the Georgia. This article is adapted from his book experience. We should “fix our eyes not One who is leading. Mind Games (Pathway Press).

EVANGEL • mar 2015 15 According to God, sex with anyone who In His love for us, God has told us the is not your husband or best use of our bodies, and He has been your wife is sin, specific when it comes to our sexuality. As whether that we’ve seen from the very beginning of the happens before Bible, God designed a man’s and a wom- marriage, during an’s body to join together as “one flesh” marriage, or after marriage. in marriage (Gen. 2:24). The language of “one flesh” points to the personal nature loving of this union. Sex is not a mechanical by act between two objects; it is a relational david platt boundaries bond between two people. And not just any two people. This physical union is designed by God for a man and a woman OD CREATED US as God desires the best for us, and He has who have committed their lives in a cov- sexual beings. We are men designed our bodies not just for His glory enant relationship with each other (see and women with distinct but also for our good. Prov. 5:3-20; Mal. 2:14). There is not one bodies that have been instance in all of God’s Word where God made in God’s image. The This is why God, in His love, gives us advocates or celebrates sex outside of a BibleG emphasizes the importance of our boundaries for our bodies: He loves us marriage relationship between a husband bodies, saying the body is meant “for the and knows what is best for us. He desires and a wife. Not one. Lord, and the Lord for the body” (1 Cor. to protect us from harm and provide 6:13). That simple phrase is a substantial for us something greater than we can According to God, then, this is the safety starting point for understanding God’s see. Whenever God gives us a negative zone in which sex is to be enjoyed. God design for us. Our bodies have been command, He always gives two positives creates this loving boundary to maximize created not only by God but also for God. to us: He is providing us with something the sexual experience in all of its richest better while also protecting us from meanings. Moreover, this is the reason This is a very different starting point than something worse. the Bible is full of prohibitions against any most people have in our culture. We are and all sexual activity outside of marriage driven today by whatever can bring our Consider an example from everyday life. between a man and a woman. For exam- bodies the most pleasure. What can we eat, When I tell my kids to stay in our yard ple, God prohibits sexual prostitution (see touch, watch, do, listen to, or engage in to and not run into the road, I’m telling Lev. 19:29; Deut. 23:18; Prov. 6:25-26) satisfy the cravings of our bodies? We are them this for their good. I know what and sexual violence (Deut. 22:25-27). He swimming in a cultural ocean that cries out could happen when a car comes racing commands us not to have sex with ani- with every wave, “Gratify your body!” down the street, so I rightly give them mals (Lev. 18:23; 20:15-16) or relatives But what if our bodies have not ultimately this restriction—because I know it is best (Lev. 18:6; 1 Cor. 5:1-2). These are bound- been created for self-gratification? What if for them. I want to protect them from aries that most people agree on in our our bodies have actually been created for harm while also providing them a safe culture (at least for now), but they are not God-glorification? And even better, what environment in which they can flourish. the only boundaries the Bible includes. if God-glorification is actually the way In a much greater way, the God who With the same force of command, God to experience the greatest satisfaction in designed our bodies knows what is best also prohibits sex between a man and our bodies? for their flourishing. woman who are not married to each Look back at that phrase from 1 Corin- These simple truths help us to see more other. The Bible calls this adultery, and it thians: the body is meant “for the Lord, clearly what we are doing when we ignore is forbidden in the Ten Commandments and the Lord for the body.” Not only are God’s good instructions. All throughout (Ex. 20:14; see also Lev. 20:10; Prov. 6:28- our bodies designed for God, but God is the Bible, He gives us boundaries for how 32). But this isn’t just an Old Testament devoted to our bodies. Literally, He is for our bodies are to be used. But when we command. Jesus and the writers of the your body. God wants you to experience ignore these boundaries, it’s as if we’re New Testament reiterate this restriction the maximum joy for which your body is saying to God, “You don’t know how this (Matt. 19:7-9; Rom. 13:9; Heb. 13:4). built, and as the Creator of our bodies, body is to be used. I know better than According to God, sex with anyone who He knows what will bring them the most You do.” It seems a bit arrogant, doesn’t is not your husband or your wife is sin, pleasure. This takes us back to one of the it? Kind of like my 4-year-old telling me I whether that happens before marriage, core truths of the gospel—the reality that don’t know what I’m talking about when during marriage, or after marriage. God loves us and is for us, not against us. it comes to cars on the road. Continued on p. 21 ^

16 EVANGEL • mar 2015 TIM HILL JOHN CHILDERS Director Assistant Director

CHURCH OF GOD WORLD MISSIONS Year of the Missionary FUSING TODAY’S DREAMS WITH TOMORROW’S POTENTIAL. Global Connect Holding Up the Hands of Missionaries March 2015

From the Director WORLD MISSIONS LEADERSHIP A bold new effort is underway to recognize and honor career missionaries in the Church of Tim Hill, Director God, and the people of the church are responding enthusiastically, according to Director Tim John Childers, Assistant Director Hill and Assistant Director John Childers. Dee Raff, Missions Administrator After naming 2015 the “Year of the Missionary,” leaders are ensuring that the church will more deliberately and publicly esteem these servants of God who cross boundaries of EDITOR Bill George language, culture, and geography to take the message of salvation and help sustain the work of DESIGN EDITOR Brandon Spell the church. CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Janet Polen Price “We often do not realize the extra difficulty and demands that are placed upon men and women, as well as their children, when they labor far from home,” said Dr. Hill. “They deserve our profound respect, admiration, and support. Just as Aaron and Hur held up the hands of Moses (Exodus 17), we must sustain our missionaries in their battles.” Among the blessings will be a time of rest and relaxation provided by World Missions where the career missionary and family can get away from their normal workplace for a few days. A new allowance for tech support, such as Internet expenses, will be provided to enable missionaries to better stay in touch with family members and supporters. One of the major new benefits will be a one-time gift of money to help offset the rising cost of insurance. In addition, each career missionary received a personal offering for the recent Valentine’s Day. Further, on his or her birthday and on their anniversary date of appointment a special offering will be sent. A gesture warmly welcomed by the career missionaries is that their room costs for the next General Assembly will be paid by World Missions. Previously, each person had the responsibility of paying for his or her own room. “These considerations are indications of our tremendous appreciation for the dedicated work of these men and women of God,” said Childers. “We are looking for those who will join us in making sure our career missionaries feel love and support in tangible ways.” Those who wish to share love gifts with missionaries may visit the website, www.cogwm.org, and click the “Give” button; or send gifts to Church of God World Missions, P.O. Box 8016, Cleveland, TN 37320-8016. 

Visit globalCONNECT online at www.cogwm.org for updated information weekly.

global 17 The standard definition of a missionary is a Christian worker who crosses some kind of border— geographical, linguistic, tribal, cultural— for performing service for God. He chooses and uses weak, ordinary men and women to accomplish His purposes for His kingdom. It is not about great men and women of God, but a great God. The life of a missionary is not glamorous; it may be full of hardship. Some of the adjustments missionaries must make are easy. Some are much more difficult. Sometimes God will ask them to sacrifice family and friends. The reality of missions is changing in response to the highly mobile, interconnected world where missionaries serve. There are some places in the world where the traditional work description remains: pastor, evangelist and church planter, theologian, Bible What translator and Bible school/seminary teacher. The rapid transitions in societies mean that the job of a missionary can now be anything: IT technician, video specialist, personnel, accountant, teacher, Is a orphanage worker, and so the list goes. It is understood that the missionary role is one in which he acts as a catalyst, support and/or a resource for the indigenous Missionary? leaders that God is calling and preparing. This paradigm is driven by a fundamental

Ken Anderson belief that a missionary’s primary purpose is to work himself/herself out of a job. Now the Lord says, who formed Me from the womb to be His Servant … The missionary’s purpose as a believer (Isaiah 49:5 NKJV). is to be obedient, to be open completely to God’s transforming grace. His In his classic devotional, My Utmost for His Highest, purpose is to pray. Her purpose it to Oswald Chambers wrote: see each interaction as a God-ordained The first thing that happens after we recognize our election by God in Christ Jesus is opportunity for God’s purposes to the destruction of our preconceived ideas, our narrow-minded thinking, and all of our be accomplished in another life. The other allegiances—we are turned solely into servants of God’s own purpose. … And missionary’s purpose is to let go of life in when we are born again we are brought into the realization of God’s great purpose for such a way that it can become connected the human race, namely, that He created us for Himself. This realization of our election to another life through the bond of by God is the most joyful on earth.… A missionary is created for the purpose of being Christ. That is the missionary’s job. God’s servant, one in whom God is glorified. Once we realize that it is through the Every Christian is called to go or to salvation of Jesus Christ that we are made perfectly fit for the purpose of God, we will send.  understand why Jesus Christ is so strict and relentless in His demands.

18 global From Honduras to Alabama Latino Pastor Survives Murder Attempt Pastors on the mission field—especially those in certain countries— are sometimes called upon to give their lives for the gospel. Pastor José Santos Ramos and his wife, Deysi, of Honduras, have recently passed through a trial that might have resulted States. He surrendered to immigration authorities and asked for in their deaths, if not for the protection of God. As a respected asylum, explaining the situation. After being detained for some pastor for 15 years in a suburb of San Pedro Sula, with months while the case was being investigated—he in Chicago friendships among government leaders, Pastor Ramos was and she in Texas—they moved to a South Alabama town where asked to champion a large group of people who had pooled they are presently living. The pastor found a local Church of God their resources and bought a large piece of property where by identifying the logo. He has been helped by that pastor and they intended to build their homes and develop a subdivision. assisted by the pastor of a larger church in a nearby city and his Learning they were having difficulty officially registering the Hispanic pastor. These men of God have helped with financial property, he discovered that the people who sold it were not support and assistance in paying attorneys to help finalize the the rightful owners; the property actually belonged to the asylum action. Honduran government. It is unlikely that a U.S. pastor would ever face this situation, but in certain areas, this kind of attack is a daily reality. San Pedro Sula is called “Murder Capital of the World,” with more violent deaths per thousand than any other place. Arms and drug trafficking have flooded the country, contributing to high gang violence. Lax gun laws—civilians can own up to five personal firearms—corruption, and poverty make life even worse. Inmates have controlled Honduras’ 24 prisons since the state gave up on rehabilitating convicts, according to a recent report by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. Despite the threats against righteousness, the Church of God has scores of churches scattered throughout the area, Pastor José Santos Ramos (r) speaks with interpreter, Kenny Vega doing its part to bring the city to its knees before God. Pray for the godly pastors and their wives who work for the coming of In the actions that followed, the offenders were forced to the Kingdom. reimburse the purchasers nearly $800,000. The perpetrators were part of a drug cartel, and they called to tell him this large Legal counsel has recommended that this article not have amount could be repaid only with his life and the life of his place names included. Pastor and Sister Ramos are truly family. Some weeks later, while he was helping the community named. He fully intends to continue preaching the gospel, scars get street lights, working to dig holes for light poles, a car and all, among the Latino diaspora in the United States.  approached, three men exited and began shooting at him. He was hit six times—twice in the side, once in each arm, once in a hand, and once in the face. He was in hospitals for weeks. Pastor Ramos and his family fled into the countryside, moving from place to place, for several months. When it was discovered that he did not die, cartel thugs entered the church where he was still listed as pastor, and when they did not find him, they murdered a layman leading the service. Consulting the head of security of the nation, the pastor learned the only way he could survive was by leaving the country; however, he could not secure a visa. When he could not leave legally, he sold his house and paid Pastor José Santos Ramos smugglers to take him and his three children to the United

global 19 What’s Happening in Missions News from around the globe New Prayer Site A new website has been initiated to help guide prayer for missions. You may visit it at www.1plus1.cc to learn more about the direction needed for praying. Each Monday, a new devotional is posted, along with prayer guides. World Missions is recruiting intercessors minute of devotion + minute of prayer who will devote one minute of prayer daily. Together one one these praying people will accumulate one million hours of prayer each year.  one million hours of prayer. one minute at a time. Invitation to Guatemala CHURCH OF GOD WORLD MISSIONS • WWW.1PLUS1.CC Casa Shalom invites friends to two events. First is a short-term mission trip for child sponsors, April 11–15, when they can bond with their sponsored children during activities at the orphanage and field trips. The trip is open to present and prospective Casa Shalom child sponsors. The second is a men’s work trip, May 2–6. Men can use their skills in electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, and more to bless the orphanage. They’ll also enjoy a pig roast, sightseeing, and a five-star buffet! For more info on either trip and cost information, contact Director Josh Hanson at [email protected]. 

Challenge in Burma A growing church in Myanmar (Burma) faces yet another location shift. In the past two years, the congregation and its accompanying small orphanage have been forced to relocate four times. Although Buddhists are typically depicted as peaceful, in the country’s capital they have evidenced sharp hostility. Because the church does not own its own property, they must rent; this opens the door for outside influences to compel property owners to withdraw rent privileges. Include this church in prayer, and ask for permanent property to become available. 

Israel Advancing Thanks to generous contributions from YWEA, the past General Assembly, and continuing gifts from people who love Israel, forward momentum is taking place in the Holy Land. Land has been purchased for a new school in Aboud, the Mount of Olives property is being remodeled to host an extension of the European Bible Seminary, church planting is underway, benevolent ministry is progressing, and other projects are in progress. 

Indonesia Action—A team from the Mount Paran, Atlanta, Church traveled to Indonesia and conducted a weeklong Old Testament course for pastors and workers. During last year’s round-the- world Bible reading emphasis, more than 10,000 individuals—not counting families—signed up to Director Tim Hill , Assistant Director John Childers along with leadership from the Aboud School anoint a new property . read the Word, according to Missionary Tommy Smith. 

20 global loving boundaries due penalty for their error” (Rom. 1:26-27 or impure, or who is covetous (that is, RSV). God is clear in His Word that homo- an idolater), has no inheritance in the Continued from page 16 sexual activity is prohibited. kingdom of Christ and God” (vv. 3-5 ESV). In God’s complementary design of man Addressing the rampant sexual immorality and woman for marriage, this prohibition In many people’s minds, we’ve already in the culture surrounding the church in also includes sex between a man and a gone too far at this point, but we’re actu- the first century, Ephesians 5 continues, man or a woman and a woman. On this ally only getting started when it comes to “It is shameful even to speak of the things the Bible is explicit. Right before prohibit- seeing and understanding God’s protec- that they do in secret” (v. 12 ESV). ing sex with animals, the Old Testament tive boundaries and sexual prohibitions reads, “Do not lie with a man as one lies in Scripture. In order to protect us from These words cut to the core of the with a woman; that is detestable” (Lev. lusts, greeds, desires, and temptations church in 21st-century culture because 18:22 NIV). Someone might say, “But that give birth to sin, the Bible also pro- we are so often colluding in rather than that’s just Old Testament law, which also hibits all sexual looking and thinking out- countering a culture of sexual immorality. includes prohibitions against eating pork side of marriage between a husband and Even Christians who refuse to indulge (11:7). Does that mean Southern barbecue a wife. In Jesus’ words, “Everyone who personally in sinful sexual activity often is also sin?” looks at a woman lustfully has already watch movies and shows, read books committed adultery with her in his heart” and articles, and visit Internet sites that This may sound like a good argument (Matt. 5:28 RSV). According to Christ, it highlight, display, promote, or make until we realize the clear and critical dis- is sinful even to look at someone who is light of sexual immorality. It’s as if we’ve tinctions between different types of laws not your husband or wife and entertain said to the world, “We’re not going to do in Leviticus. Some of the laws are civil in sexual thoughts about that person (see what you do, but we will gladly entertain nature, and they specifically pertain to the also 2 Peter 2:14). ourselves by watching you.” It’s sick, isn’t government of ancient Israel in a way that it, this tendency that brings delight to us they do not necessarily pertain to govern- when we observe others in sexual sin? ments today. Other laws are ceremonial, Even Christians who Ultimately, God prohibits sexual worship— prescribing particular sacrifices, offerings, refuse to indulge the idolization of sex and infatuation with and festivals for God’s people under the sexual activity as a fundamental means to old covenant. These civil and ceremonial personally in sinful personal fulfillment. All throughout Scrip- laws applied specifically to Jewish people sexual activity ture and history, people have mistakenly in the Old Testament, and we know this often watch movies, fallen into the trap of thinking that the because these laws are not reiterated read books, and visit God-created pleasure of sex and sexuality for all people in the New Testament. Internet sites that will bring us ultimate satisfaction (see Ex. However, various moral laws (such as make light of sexual 32:2-6; Deut. 23:17; Prov. 7:1-27; 1 Cor. prohibitions against stealing and lying, for immorality. 10:8). Sadly, it seems that we are no dif- example) are explicitly reiterated in the It’s sick, isn’t it? ferent in our time. All across our culture, New Testament. These laws, based upon people believe, “If only I have sexual free- God’s character, clearly apply to all people dom in this way or that way, then I will be for all time. Not only is it contrary to God’s grand desire and therefore wrong to possess happy.” But this is not true. We know that moral laws include pro- and cultivate sexual desires for others Sex is good, but sex is not God. It will not hibitions not only against stealing and outside of marriage, it is also wrong to ultimately fulfill. Like anything else that lying, but also against homosexual activity provoke sexual desires in others outside of becomes an idol, it will always take more because, when we get to the New Testa- marriage. God forbids immodest clothing than it gives while diverting the human ment, Jesus himself teaches that the only (see 1 Tim. 2:9-10) and warns sternly heart away from the only One who is able God-honoring alternative to marriage against seductive speech (see Prov. 5:1-23; to give supreme joy. between a man and a woman is singleness 7:1-27). Even more, God prohibits any kind (see Matt. 19:10-12). Moreover, the New of crude speech, humor, or entertainment Each of the Bible’s sexual prohibitions Testament describes “dishonorable pas- that remotely revolves around sexual is encapsulated in the all-encompassing sions” with the example of women who immorality. In the words of Ephesians command “Flee from sexual immorality” “exchanged natural relations for those that 5, “Sexual immorality and all impurity or (1 Cor. 6:18 NIV). These words were are contrary to nature” and men who “like- covetousness must not even be named written to a church in the sex-crazed city wise gave up natural relations with women among you. . . . Let there be no filthiness of Corinth, where singles were sexually and were consumed with passion for one nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which involved before marriage, husbands and another, . . . committing shameless acts are out of place. . . . For you may be sure of wives were sexually involved outside of with men and receiving in themselves the this, that everyone who is sexually immoral Continued on page 32 ^

EVANGEL • mar 2015 21 by susan I. smith burden off my shoulder Thanking god for his healing touch T HAD BEGUN as a minor annoyance, shoulder and were now “shredding” the An hour later, I awoke in the recovery grown in intensity, and continued rotator cuff. He advised surgery before room with a deadened arm and a shoulder unabated until it intruded on my the rotator cuff was torn completely—a swathed in a huge white bandage. Dr. every activity. It was pain in my left condition which would require more Dvorkin stood nearby with pen and shoulder that had been there for more extensive intervention. prescription pad in hand. When he Ithan 10 years. noticed I was awake, he spoke. The procedure was scheduled for the IWhat had begun as a dull ache after afternoon of March 19, 2014. As the “I’m amazed,” he began. “Your rotator cuff activity had now become sharp, searing, date approached, I solicited the prayers was completely undamaged.” His tone excruciating pain that often awakened me of my pastor, Michael McDermott, and revealed his surprise. “All I had to do was with the sound of my own voice crying out those of my precious friends at Life remove the calcium deposits.” in anguish. It placed limits on all that I did, Source International Church of God in I smiled as I replied, “Well, we prayed, even kept me from raising both hands in Baltimore. didn’t we?” praise to my Lord—and that was the last straw. After much prayer and patience, I The day finally came. After I invited Dr. He just shook his head in wonder, knew it was time to deal with it. Dvorkin to share a brief prayer with me, a then announced, “I’m writing you a team of medical professionals in matching prescription for Oxycodone, which you’ll Dr. Michael Dvorkin, a middle-aged green scrubs and white masks greeted me need when the nerve block wears off. Take man with dark curly hair and gentle in the brightly lit operating room. When one tonight and one in the morning to eyes, immediately sent me for an MRI to I was wheeled into place, I was given a stay ahead of the pain, then every—” discover the source of my torment. The nerve block to render my left arm totally test revealed calcium deposits which had numb for 18 to 24 hours. Then I was I cut him off in mid-sentence, resolutely slowly developed on the ball joint of my anesthetized for the surgery. stating, “I really don’t take narcotics.” The

22 EVANGEL • mar 2015 thought of ingesting that particular drug, to the altar, had it anointed with oil and were in a heated discussion of exactly after hearing so much negative reporting prayed over in my stead, and pinned it where her neck was broken, how badly on the risk of becoming addicted, horri- to my nightgown, in the manner of Acts her spine was damaged, and whether she fied me. 19:11-12. Soon thereafter, I would invari- would be left a quadriplegic or simply a ably be well. I was too young to under- paraplegic. We ignored that report, went Dr. Dvorkin looked equally horrified. stand the theology behind her action; but to Judy’s bedside, and began to pray. The “But you’ll need it—believe me!” he when I got sick and Nannie wasn’t there, Lord’s report found her healed and back said forcefully. “Even with arthroscopic I would rummage through my mother’s in school within a week! surgery, you’ll be in a great deal of pain dresser drawers until I found a white when that nerve block wears off. Some of handkerchief, which I then put under my This same daughter, when in Bible college my patients need Oxy for as much as two pillow. God knew my heart was pure, even in Maine, hurt her hand so seriously that months.” if my doctrine was a bit skewed, and He her thumb was almost severed. Once would mercifully heal me anyway. again, prayer and the God-given skill of a What then? I wondered. Straight to drug micro-surgeon restored Judy completely. rehab? Shortly after my marriage, I contracted I’ll always remember the early morning we an infection that left me with a fever I stood my ground. “I still don’t want received the news that Valerie’s husband hovering between 104 and 105 degrees narcotics. Please prescribe something had been grievously injured when a front- for an entire week. Unconscious much else.” end loader at his job ran over his right of the time, unable to eat, and becoming leg. At the hospital, we were confronted weaker with each passing day, I was soon He finally relented and scribbled on his with doctors debating how far up they barely able to move. Then, my precious pad. He left with strict instructions to would have to amputate since there was pastor, who was also my uncle, came to keep my arm immobilized in a sling for no blood flow to the foot. As the entire pray for me; immediately the fever broke. two weeks and to call him when I needed family stood around him and prayed, we the Oxy. Several years later, my 5-month-old son, watched as his foot turned a perfect shade The next day, as the nerve block faded, Michael, developed pneumonia following of pink. He wasn’t even left with a limp. I had no pain at all! God had not only a severe cold. One evening, just as I was God does good work! totally healed my rotator cuff, He had about to leave the room where he lay in Years later, their 20-year-old daughter, also totally removed any trace of post- his playpen fingering the mobile above Katie, lay unconscious in the ICU with operative pain. I could only praise Him him, I was distracted for several minutes. a massive systemic staph infection that over and over again. Then I dressed and When I looked back at Mike, he was not resulted in high fever, brain inflamma- attended the bimonthly meeting of the moving and his skin had begun to turn tion, and a stroke. Doctors said if she pastoral care team at Franklin Square an ominous shade of gray. I approached survived, she might never recover com- Hospital (where I’d had the surgery just the playpen and discovered my baby boy pletely and would require rehabilitation the day before and where I serve as a was not breathing! As I grabbed him up, for months. Again, the family gathered chaplain). When the meeting ended, I all I could say was “Jesus!” It was enough. around a hospital bed for prayer. Two visited all of my tiny patients and their His eyes popped open as he took in a huge hours later, my granddaughter awoke parents in the neonatal intensive care gasp of air and smiled at me. demanding food. One week to the day unit, where I am assigned. By God’s grace, after that prayer, she was the guest of I’ll also never forget when I discovered I did it all pain-free. During the next two honor as we all gathered once more, my baby daughter, Valerie, unresponsive weeks, I took no pain medication and this time to celebrate her full recovery with a sudden high fever at 2:00 a.m. It literally had to keep the sling in place to at her favorite restaurant. remind me not to move my arm. was no time to call her pediatrician; and with my husband, a police officer, working Oh yes, I am no stranger to the healing mir- Dr. Dvorkin was amazed once more the night shift, I had no way to get to a acles of my Lord! Still, as my grandmother when I returned to his office two weeks hospital. I simply stood at the side of her always maintained, when God heals, we later. As soon as the sling was removed, I crib and prayed. By daybreak, Val was must pay our “doctor bill” with our witness demonstrated full mobility in my arm and completely well. and our praise. This is that joyous payment shoulder. “You won’t even need physical to my Great Physician, for Jesus has gra- therapy!” he exclaimed. While competing in the high jump on ciously and gloriously removed the burden her high-school track team, my elder from my shoulder. Of course, I am no stranger to God’s heal- daughter, Judy, missed the padded pit ing power. When I was a small child and and landed on the back of her head on Susan I. Smith, Th.D., Ph.D., lives in too sick to attend church, my grandmoth- concrete. When my husband and I got to Baltimore, Maryland, and attends the Life er often took a clean white handkerchief the hospital, doctors viewing her X-rays Source International Church of God.

EVANGEL • mar 2015 23 SSYRIA WAS gobbling up nations. Several years after capturing Israel, the Assyr- Aians—led by King Sennacherib —were camped outside Jerusalem, capital by doug small of Judah. Although King Hezekiah paid Sennach- erib a heavy tribute with gold and silver from the Temple (2 Kings 18:13-16), it was not enough. A demand letter called prayer for national surrender. The letter was not a mere political, economic, or military that prevails matter; it taunted the Lord God. Sennach- erib charged that trusting Yahweh was futile—that He was offering false hope to kiah “trusted in the Lord God. . . . He held That night, following the appeal specifi- the people of Judah. fast to the Lord” (vv. 5-6 NKJV). cally tied to the honor and glory of God, the angel of the Lord struck the camp God and the Nations With Sennacherib’s demand letter in his of the Assyrians (v. 35). God fought the The United States is in the midst of a veri- hand, Hezekiah went to the Temple and battle for the nation and sent Sennach- table war against Christianity to enshrine spread it out before the Lord in prayer. erib home (v. 36). pluralism and privatize faith. Since faith Alone with God, the king pleaded for the has a corporate dimension, sequestering it nation of Judah. He began, “O Lord, the On August 10, 1941, President Franklin can destroy it. God of Israel, who are enthroned above Roosevelt and British Prime Minister the cherubim, You are the God, You alone, Winston Churchill met on the deck of “Blessed is the nation whose God is the of all the kingdoms of the earth. You have HMS Prince of Wales for consultation and Lord,” says Psalm 33:12. Heaven declares, made heaven and earth” (19:15 NASB). prayer. They bowed their heads and belted “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin out hymns. . . . During the years in which is a reproach to any people” (Prov. 14:34 This is not a superficial appeal; it is full London was bombed, it was said that every NKJV). Surely, if God gathers and judges of profound implications. Note the eye searched the horizon as dawn came and nations (Zeph. 3:8), He also protects affirmations: the smoke cleared, and if the spire of Saint them. Paul urges “supplications, prayers, • The Lord has made a national cov- Paul’s Cathedral could still be seen pointing intercessions . . . for kings” (1 Tim. 2:1-2). enant—He is “the God of Israel” (which heavenward, there was hope. . . . On D-Day, Indeed, God’s hand is “stretched out over included Judah). June 6, 1944, President Roosevelt read a prayer to the United States, “Let Our Hearts all the nations” (Isa. 14:26 NKJV), and “all • God is sovereign—He is “enthroned.” the nations that forget God” perish (Ps. Be Stout,” as Allied troops invaded Europe. • The Lord is incomparably singular— 9:17). In Ezekiel 14:12-21, the Lord warns, He is “God . . . alone.” National Revivals “If a country sins against Me by committing unfaithfulness,” judgment will follow— • The Lord reigns everywhere—He is In the Bible, national revivals rose only reaching a point where the righteous will be God of “all the kingdoms of the earth.” with righteous or repentant kings. With- out righteousness or repentance by lead- able to “deliver only themselves,” not their • God is the Life-giver—Creator of ers, there was little hope. Israel’s national nation (NASB). God “makes nations great, “heaven and earth.” and destroys them; he enlarges nations, leaders inaugurated 11 of the 12 renewals and disperses them” (Job 12:23 NIV). Assyria’s threat put God on trial. The in the Old Testament. They called solemn words of Sennacherib did not merely assemblies for national repentance, and Desperate Appeal to God question Jerusalem’s strength or Heze- spiritual renewal followed. kiah’s resolve; they “insult[ed] the living In 2 Kings 18:19, Sennacherib’s threaten- God” (v. 16 NIV). With the honor of God National sins are not merely the collective ing letter to Hezekiah began, “What confi- in question, note the heart of King Heze- sins of its people. Personal and corporate dence is this in which you trust?” (NKJV). kiah’s prayer: “O Lord our God, I pray, sins are on different ledgers; the judgments Hezekiah was unlike the former faithless save us from his hand, that all the king- of individuals and nations differ. Corpo- kings of Judah. Bolstered by encourage- doms of the earth may know that You are rate sins demand corporate repentance to ment from the prophet Isaiah, King Heze- the Lord God, You alone” (v. 19 NKJV). avert the threatening national judgment.

24 EVANGEL • mar 2015 Three exceptions appear in the Old Testa- row self-interest, only pretending to love Awakening (1730s), the Great Revival of ment, however, when God acted in His God and righteousness. To repent in view New York (1857), Camp Creek and Azusa own behalf, for His own glory, for His of God’s holiness, with deep contrition at Street revivals (1896 and 1906), the name’s sake. In Egypt, enslaved and expe- our offense to God, is noble repentance. Hebrides Revival (1949). In every case, a riencing genocide, without hope, baptized humble but bold catalyst, often unknown, in Egyptian paganism, Israel cried out Repentance in hopes of restoring the dared to call for repentance. and God intervened. Every one of the 10 national economy and strengthen our plagues was a declaration of His superiority freedom is too shallow. However, repen- We are now desperate for divine interven- over pagan deities. Wooing His people, the tance as a nation preserved and blessed by tion. Five social conditions are so morally Lord redeemed and emancipated Israel. the God we have abandoned and a Christ decadent that God packs His glory and we have dishonored is different. It is the leaves. America is guilty of all five: In Elijah’s day, Baalism had become the repentance that all the kingdoms of the earth 1. Shedding innocent blood (Num. 35:33- state religion in Israel. Righteous prophets might know that the Lord is God alone! 34; Ezek. 7:23-24; 36:17-18) had fled; the godly were persecuted. A day These are the stakes; the world is watching. of decision for the nation took place on 2. Treating the dead (death) with disre- Mount Carmel. There, holy fire fell and Our Desperate Condition spect (implication: the sacredness of Baalism proved futile. Sadly, we are living in an increasingly the body; belief in the resurrection; pagan cultural climate. For example, when Deut. 21:22-23) During the ministry of Elijah and Elisha, 5-year-old Gabriella Perez bowed her head 3. The breakdown of the family (Lev. a wave of miracles took place, apparently to pray in her Oviedo (Florida) school 18:20, 24-30; Ezek. 33:26; Deut. 24:1-4) designed by God to show Himself as the lunchroom last spring, a teacher allegedly 4. Sexual deviation (identity confusion true and living One. Yet, Israel did not told her praying was not allowed. When turn to Him. bringing social disorder, Lev. 18:22, Sam Turner knelt down to say a quick 24-30) prayer after scoring a touchdown for Fort Decades after Sennacherib’s threat failed, 5. Idolatry (pluralism, Lev. 18:21, 24-30; Judah fell to the Babylonians, leaving Myers (Florida) High School last Novem- ber, a referee flagged him for “unsports- Ezek. 36:17-18; Jer. 2:7-13; 3:9; 16:17- Jerusalem and the Temple decimated. 19). Then God acted again. The miracles in manlike conduct.” Attorneys for the Alli- the lives of Daniel and his three Hebrew ance Defending Freedom have defended Nations have purposes. John Adams friends encouraged the exiles. A remnant these cases and many more: believed God orchestrated the founding of returned from captivity. The nation sur- • An Arizona pastor ordered to stop America to preach the gospel to the ends vived. Here is the miraculous birth of a holding Bible studies in his home of the earth. The Puritans saw the fledg- nation, its call to revival, and its resurrec- ling nation as a “city upon a hill.” Such • Five Christian men threatened with notions now seem like faint dreams. tion from the dead—all pointing to Christ. arrest for sharing their faith on a public Deep Repentance sidewalk in Virginia Nevertheless, consider the multicultural- • A Christian student at a Missouri uni- ism of our country—the nations are here. The thesis is simple: When the purposes If a national great awakening came, it of God are threatened and the people who versity pressured to write a letter to the state legislature expressing her support could trigger a global spiritual explosion. A carry God’s name are at risk, God acts in national revival would be on the American His own behalf, for His own name! That for homosexual adoption or not receive her degree. stage that the world watches. If a truly may be our only hope. So much repen- sovereign visitation came . . . who could tance today is self-interested, and it will Affirmation of secular, anti-Christian val- withstand God? never affect either a lasting revival in the ues appears under new noble rubrics such church or a change in the culture. as “the child values initiative,” “the world The problem is not political. The only citizen enterprise,” “one standard for all,” hope is a national great awakening. His- The quality of repentance rising out of and “the empowerment campaign.” There tory teaches that spiritual revolutions shame and guilt, out of the fear of conse- are clear, bold efforts to de-Christianize come by violent, passionate, relentless quences, is different from repentance out society. Regrettably, we shrink back, prayer from people who are desperate for of a heart broken because it has offended quickly surrender public expressions of holiness. the holiness of God. To repent to make faith, trying to keep the peace. our life better, to start afresh, and/or to Doug Small, coordinator of Church of God get out of trouble is the lowest quality of Yet, revivals take place in climates hostile Prayer Ministries, lives in Kannapolis, North repentance. It uses faith for one’s own nar- or cold to the gospel—the first Great Carolina. [email protected]

EVANGEL • mar 2015 25 evangel interview by lance colkmire A resurgence of religious fervor Edley Moodley, Ph.D., is director of the in their web of influence. The question as Intercultural Studies Program (ICSP) at Lee to whether it is possible to follow Christ University, where he has been a faculty mem- and still remain a cultural Muslim has ber since 1999. generated much discussion on both sides of the argument. However, these former Dr. Moodley, tell about religious Muslims who have come to faith in Jesus persecution you have witnessed in Christ via dreams and visions (Joel 2:28) your travels. can only rely on the Spirit that led them To my mind, the most under-reported to Christ to direct them to further fruitful demographic suffering religious persecu- endeavors for the sake of the Kingdom tion is the Christian Dalits of India, where without mitigating the person and work Hindu scriptures support the conviction of Jesus Christ. that caste is a sacred social system with divine origins. Dalit comes from a word How are other faith groups meaning “oppressed” or “broken” victims. influencing Christianity? They are not part of the fourfold caste What do you know about reaching We are experiencing a resurgence of system in the social hierarchy in India, people for Christ in Muslim countries? religious fervor and spirituality in the but are relegated to a fifth category—the Last year in Thailand, I participated in world, and Christianity is one faith tradi- “scheduled caste,” formerly called the a conference where most of the partici- tion among many others competing for “untouchables.” They make up almost 17 pants were converts to Christianity from attention. A recent survey revealed that percent of India’s population, and 80 per- Islam—almost all of them presently living Christians who live in countries that are 80 cent of India’s Christians are Dalits. in Islamic countries. It was stated that percent or more Christian declined from 95 Dalits suffer mass poverty, mass illit- 87 percent of Muslims living in “creative- percent (in 1900) to 76 percent (in 1970) eracy, and mass unemployment. Beyond access countries” who come to faith in to 52 percent today. Christian countries are these systemic injustices, Dalit women Jesus Christ do so through dreams and becoming less Christian through seculariza- are often assaulted and raped, and India’s visions. tion and religious diversity. courts appear to condone or overlook such In many predominately Muslim Today, one need not travel to India to inhumane acts. Men and boys go missing, countries, Christians are presumed to be meet a Hindu, nor travel to Thailand to sometimes being murdered. Sex trafficking morally decadent and promiscuous. Theo- meet a Buddhist. The most diverse piece of children is common. Christian Dalits are logically, the Christian doctrine of the of real estate in the world today is New deprived of economic assistance from the Trinity is offensive to the Muslim mind York City. state; non-Christian Dalits look upon them as it hears “partners with God.” Thus, in Christianity in America is losing the with disfavor when they seek government honor/shame cultures, a family member’s coherence of historical religious tradi- assistance as they are thought to receive conversion to Christianity visits shame tions. Younger and older Christians are missionary patronage. Upper-caste Chris- upon the family. Such a person is excom- eclectically mixing and matching spiritual tians treat Christian Dalits with contempt. municated from the family, sometimes practices from a smorgasbord of religious Not more than a mile from the center with the threat of death. faiths. The Hindu practice of yoga has of New Delhi [India’s capital], a young The only viable option for these fledg- a certain appeal to Westerners; Bud- Dalit pastor took me to a slum where ling converts who continue living in their dhist meditation practices are common the living conditions are deplorable and communities is to call themselves “fol- among many people outside the Buddhist inhumane. The church in the slum meets lowers of Isa” (meaning “Jesus”) rather tradition; the Hare Krishna movement in a mud house comprising two rooms. than “Christians.” They remain culturally is growing; Islam appears to be gaining The family living there sacrificially allows Muslim, even praying five times a day and more converts than Christianity each year the church the use of one room while they observing the mandatory monthlong fast of worldwide. confine their living to the other room. Ramadan once a year, among other rituals. Why are Eastern religions and phi- You can visit dalitnetwork.org to learn Remaining inside the culture affords losophies attracting new members to more about Dalits in India. converts the opportunity to impact others their ranks at the expense of the Western

26 EVANGEL • mar 2015 church? In Soul Searching: The Religious of internship—a structured 10-week more, and to be able to enter more deeply and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers experience, usually in a foreign country or into the heart of people.” (2009), the authors interviewed some urban context—under the leadership of Another intern—who traveled to 3,000 teenagers and postulated the thesis a capable expatriate missionary or indig- South Africa, Mozambique, and Swazi- that today’s youth hold to moral statutes enous leader. land—said, “Never before has the king- that are not necessarily “Christian” but dom of God exploded before my eyes in a morality inherent in the world’s major Can you give examples of Lee such a vast and creative array of intercon- religions. They called this “moralistic students being transformed through nected colors and lives. I am realizing that therapeutic deism” (MTD). cross-cultural experiences in what I passionately desire to do in this Several megachurches in this country countries where Christians are a world cannot be done alone, and those are characterized by MTD philosophy—the small minority? whom I am zealously gripped to help have ultimate goal in life is to be happy, wealthy, In Cambodia, interns work under the so much to teach me about living a radical, and healthy; it is tantamount to a “Christ- supervision of Julie Martinez of People transparent, and ardent life for the Lord.” less Christianity” where nothing matters for Care and Learning (PCL). Cambo- Our students understand that when save one’s own well-being. Jesus’ parable of dia is home to the Tonlé Sap Lake and the church abrogates its missionary call- the prodigal son is interpreted thusly: The the famous 12th-century Angkor Wat ing, it denies the very reason for its exis- wayward person needs direction, the sick temples. Some 95 percent of Cambodia’s tence. Christian mission is the crossing of person needs medicine, and the antidote 14 million people adhere to Theravada boundaries—geographical, cultural, social, for weakness is strength. It is human-cen- Buddhism. The country is still recovering economic, gender, ethnic, and religious— tered rather than God-centered. from the mass genocide perpetrated dur- with the good news of Jesus Christ. We hear less of sin and salvation and ing the reign of the communist Khmer more humanistic sermons in church Rouge in the late 1970s. Give your personal testimony—how today. A return to orthodoxy that includes During the course of 10 weeks, our did you become a follower of Christ? a rediscovery of sin and its consequences interns in Cambodia teach English as I was born in the city of Durban on will witness a flight from Christ-less a second language, serve a displaced the east coast of South Africa, the third of Christianity and a resurgence of the Chris- Vietnamese community from a floating seven children—five boys and two girls. tian faith. The apostle Paul has the last church on the Tonlé Sap Lake, assist in My mother was the daughter of a Baptist word: “For by grace you have been saved PCL’s sustainable farming project, and preacher, and my maternal grandmother through faith. And this is not your own work with disadvantaged children in two was the first Indian woman missionary doing; it is the gift of God” (Eph. 2:8 ESV). children’s homes. The ultimate goal is to appointed by the founder of the Bethesda help introduce Jesus Christ to a nation Movement, John Francis Rowlands, in What is the purpose of Lee University’s steeped in Buddhism. the late 1940s. My father was raised in a Intercultural Studies Program? One intern commented, “My intern- staunch Hindu home and, after conver- Our primary mandate is to train ship in Cambodia was an amazing and sion to Christianity, married my mother. women and men to be effective advocates enlightening experience. There was no way While my faith was nurtured within of the Christian gospel, both locally and for me to know how the events of the 10 a Christian home, I knew that one day I globally. We recognize the need for inte- weeks would unfold to surprise me, stretch would have to make a conscious decision gration between academic studies and the me, bless me, make me uncomfortable, to make my parents’ faith my own. That learning and application of missionary and cause me to grow. The experience as day came when I was 8 years old. I was ill skills on the field. Students serve a period a whole pushed me to learn more, to care with rheumatic fever and confined to bed for three months. My medical condition AMERICANS’ SUPERNATURAL EXPERIENCES AND BELIEFS was further compounded when I devel- oped an unsightly lump the size of a golf Percent who say they have . . . Total Christians ball on my left side just above the hip. Been in touch with the dead 29 29 My grandmother decided to take me Had a ghostly experience 18 17 to church for prayer. Our pastor, John Consulted a psychic 15 14 Francis Rowlands, and my grandmother Percent who believe in . . . laid their hands on me and prayed. That Spritual energy in trees, etc. 26 23 day I committed my life to the lordship Astrology 25 23 of Christ. The next morning, the lump on Reincarnation 24 22 my side was gone. In our Sunday morning Yoga as a spiritual practice 23 21 worship service, I couched my testimony Evil eye (casting of curses, etc.) 16 17 in one short statement from the lines of a Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion Poll (2009) song: “I thank God for saving my soul and for making me whole.”

EVANGEL • mar 2015 27 it happened by james M. beaty in cuba . . . and beyond the amazing story of arthur w. pain HEN ARTHUR PAIN Colombia, where he exported precious heard church bells woods from the mountains. One day, sister, Mattie Perry, arrived in Havana playing “Nearer My bandits kidnapped him! After his escape, and met the Pains. God to Thee,” he put Pain moved to Nicaragua, and then to Sam Perry had been ordained as a away the gun with Cuba, where he arrived in early 1900. Church of God minister at the Pleasant Wwhich he had planned to kill himself and He decided to buy and sell real estate Grove Camp Meeting (near Durant, Flor- headed for the church. along the northern shore. He heard about ida) in 1909. One year later, he and his He found the parish priest and shared two Quaker missionaries—the Woody big sister—children of a Methodist minis- his desperation. The priest replied, “Man, sisters—who were living there, and he ter—took the message and experience of you need to see a psychiatrist.” met with them. They tried to tell him Pentecost to Cuba. The first issue of the Pain later wrote, “What little flame the about Jesus, but their effort appeared Evening Light and Church of God Evangel church bell had kindled, the priest put out wasted. However, before he left, Arthur (March 1, 1910) included the following with a single swat.” asked if they had a book in English that he statement: The son of a British military doctor, could read. They offered him a Bible. Bro. Sam C. Perry, our Field Editor, Arthur was born in India on April 26, The next weekend, Arthur took his and his sister Mattie Perry, of Elhanan 1867. His family moved back to London pipe, tobacco, wine, bread, cheese, and Institute and Orphanage, are now in when Arthur was 5 years old. When he meat to a deserted farmhouse to read Cuba. . . . . We trust these soldiers of the Cross will be able to start a flame was 17, his father died, leaving the family the book . . . but it read him also! He read of Pentecostal fire in Cuba that will with few resources. almost all night for two nights, and an expand and burn till Jesus comes. Arthur moved to Argentina, where overpowering conviction of sin fell on Just before May 19, 1910, Sam wrote he was hired as an assistant cook on a him. He cried out to God, and he was to A. J. Tomlinson, Church of God general big cattle ranch near Santa Fe. He soon forgiven—the burden was lifted and he overseer: learned that the ranch, like other ranches felt clean inside. He wrote, “The first thing for miles around, would drive its cattle to that I did was to dig a hole, and in that I feel that my trip to Cuba was a a slaughterhouse in Buenos Aires (nearly hole I put my pipe, my tobacco, and my success. I found hungry hearts there. Brother and Sister Pain (missionaries 300 miles away) and sell them, where they liquor. And I also buried the old Arthur!” of about 10 years experience in Cuba) were slaughtered immediately. Because That was in July 1900. are hungry for Pentecost. They are good the cattle would arrive dehydrated and When he told the missionary sisters workers and have a good hold on the thinner than when they left the ranch a his good news, they saw the possibilities Cuban people. I made many friends couple of weeks earlier, the beef suffered in Arthur Pain. They suggested he go to among the Cubans and may go back in the winter if the Lord wills. in quality. Arthur got the idea of building Nyack Missionary Training Institute in Pray especially for Brother Pain to get “holding pens,” buying the cattle, feeding New York, and he did so for one year. the baptism [in the Holy Spirit]. them for a time, and then selling them Arthur then returned to Cuba as a to the slaughterhouse. The quality of the Quaker missionary, assigned to Bani, on Sam and Mattie found hungry hearts beef improved, and he made a fortune. the eastern end of the island. However, he in Arthur and Ellen Pain—so hungry that Consequently, he took two luxury trips soon transferred to be near Ellen Woody. Arthur traveled to Florida. He wrote: back to London. By the second trip, he They were married in 1903, becoming the God opened the way for me to go to had run out of any purpose for living, and parents of four sons. Durant, Fla., where Sam Perry and headed for a meadow to commit suicide. Arthur ministered by witnessing others were gathered for a camp meeting, and where after two years That’s where the church bells saved him. wherever he went, planting gospel seeds. of seeking, God met me on the 26th Arthur went back to Argentina to Seven years after the marriage of day of May 1910. He most graciously liquidate his assets, and then moved to Arthur and Ellen, Sam Perry and his baptized me with the Holy Ghost. . . .

28 EVANGEL • mar 2015 I found God’s call for full obedience. I Ellen sensed God calling her to do did, and he came to her humble dwelling, asked God to show me what I did not missionary work in Cuba, and Wood made of palm wood. Pain sat on the only obey in, and soon found as I said “yes” agreed to help her. They opened the stool she had, and she sat on a tree trunk, to what He showed me, other things “Christian Lighthouse” in Aguacate. He as he led her to receive Christ. Years later, were brought before me, until at last all was under the blood. . . . then made arrangements for Ellen’s sister, the people called this woman “Conchita, the Martha, to join her in March 1900, and Saint.” However, she carried the scar of a Pray for Cuba, that God may use the first missionary for His glory. set up a small board to support the work. knife wound on her cheek, made by a jeal- After Ellen’s marriage to Arthur, ous, drunken lover after an all-night revelry. With Pentecostal fire burning in his he had a life-changing impact on Justo She always said, “The mark of the knife heart, Arthur Pain was a tireless witness González, who became the father of remains here, but the Lord Jesus erased the for Jesus and the power of the Word Justo L. González (a renowned Christian marks of my sin.” of God. In the syllabus of the Evangeli- historian and theologian). Justo first González said of Conchita, “She was, cal Theological Seminary in Los Pinos made contact with Pain in the summer of in fact, the first person that brought the Nuevos, he is called “one of the most 1906 when his father took the family on a gospel to my house. . . . Because of the important foreign workers in the work six-week vacation to Santa Cruz del Norte, gospel, I studied and became a professor in Cuba.” where Pain lived at that time. and a preacher. Through me, the gospel Arthur’s wife, Ellen Woody, had One day soon afterward, Justo’s came to my sons, who also studied wanted to be a missionary in Africa, father came home from a visit to Santa and have become university professors, but instead she found a place to Cruz with a valuable book, a Bible, which writers, and preachers.” González called Arthur Pain “an English adventurer, able to conquer the world, but who, in obedience to God, chose to cast his lot with the poor of the land of Cuba.”

The improbable series of events in Arthur Pain’s story were God’s handwork: • Except for a church’s bells, he would have killed himself. • Through the efforts of two Quaker missionaries to Cuba, he became a Christian. • Through the influence of Sam C. Perry’s short time in Cuba, Arthur went to a Florida camp meeting and received the baptism in the Holy Spirit. • Arthur led Conchita, an illiterate Cuban woman, to the Lord. • Arthur and Conchita brought the gospel to the home of Justo González. minister in Camden, New Jersey, at an a stranger sold him for 40 cents. Then, a He became a pastor and teacher, and his orphanage run by John E. Wood, an disciple of Arthur Pain began to show up son, Justo L., has influenced thousands elderly Christian philanthropist. She in their home: Conchita was an illiterate through his three-volume The Story of soon became the director of the Elhanan black woman who had been converted Christianity, other books, and through his Orphanage. At the end of the 1890s, from a wayward life. seminary teaching. the elderly owner felt it would be best She came back often, especially when to discontinue the orphanage. He found Justo’s mother was sick, and would do all James M. Beaty, Ph.D., is professor emeri- places for all the children and made plans kinds of work but always refused pay. She tus of New Testament at the Pentecostal Theo- to go to Cuba to avoid the bad weather of only asked that someone read the Bible to logical Seminary in Cleveland, Tennessee. winter. In order to keep Ellen employed, her, since she could not read. Sources: “Missionary Heritage in Cuba” he offered her a job as his personal nurse. Conchita had first heard Pain in a public (seminary course syllabus) by José Elías She accepted, and they arrived in Havana meeting in which he invited those who Ledesma Cobo; and Sembrador a Voleo by on December 12, 1899. wanted to know more to contact him. She Justo González

EVANGEL • mar 2015 29 VIEWPOINTS

Every month, more than 200,000 Americans ask, “What is the meaning of life?” on the Google search engine. If you were asked that question by someone from a non-Christian background, how would you respond? identity and purpose Our purpose is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. We LEONARD C. ALBERT, a self-described “spreacher,” is a glorify God by fearing and obeying Him, keeping our eyes on our personal-evangelism specialist who lives in Cleveland, future home in heaven, and knowing Him intimately. We enjoy Tennessee. God by following His purpose for our lives, which enables us to ACCORDING TO THAT Internet fount of all great knowledge experience true and lasting joy—the abundant life He desires for —Google—this is the most-asked question in the world. Anyone us. Once we establish our purpose, we begin to get the right per- would agree that this is no trivial matter. I think the answer is spective—we were made by God to minister to others and share found in two words: identity and purpose. with them the wonderful story of salvation. First is identity—who am I? Someone said, “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The This seems like a simple question. We answer with our name, purpose of life is to give it away.” We were designed by God; He where we live, our job or profession, or our family pedigree. At is the One who gives our lives purpose and direction. Look again some point, we see that nothing at 1 Peter 2:9. Our purpose is to proclaim the praises of Him who we say really answers the question, called us out of darkness. This defines who we are. It shows the and we stop because the answer is world who we are—living for others and proclaiming the praises much more complicated than it first of our great God. This is the meaning of life—God’s way. appears. Think deeper. Who am I? Every life matters time we fill out a job application, ANTHONY T. PELT is administrative bishop for the Church of update our resumé, fill in our God in Florida (Cocoa). information at the doctor’s office, IN THIS DAY of divergent views, speaking with someone who or meet someone socially for the is not from a Christian background can be tricky. However, most first time, that question must be people—Christian or not—would agree that meaningful living answered. involves doing good for as many people as possible. Yet, many We actually are a compilation of many elements, much like people today hate, hoard, and try to find ways to handicap others a story. Many parts go into this story: interests, history, quirks, rather than help others be all they can and should be. talents, achievements, background, likes, dislikes, successes, and How can Christians engage in failures. And our story changes as our life develops. conversation with non-Christians as To discover our true identity, we must appeal to the ultimate it relates to the meaning of life? authority: God and His Word. The Bible says we are spiritual Establish common ground. All beings who temporarily have a physical body. We are created in of us have pondered, Where did I the image of God with the ability to think, love, will, and choose. come from? Why am I here? What is God says in Genesis 1:27 that we are created “in His own image the meaning of life? Believers should . . . male and female” (NKJV). Sin has destroyed our perfect rela- be honest about our own questions tionship with God, and thus our identity and purpose have been surrounding this issue. Saved or marred. We have to get rid of this sin. God sent His Son, Jesus not, we all have looked in the mir- Christ, to pay the price for our sins at Calvary, where He willingly ror of life and scratched our head. gave His life so we could be forgiven and go free. Saved or not, most people want a First Peter 2:9 sums up the issue of the Christian’s identity: good, safe, and productive life. We all hope that our decisions “You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, have not derailed, delayed, or even destroyed our destiny. We all His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him have this in common, and it provides a great starting point. who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (NKJV). Practice consistent conduct. Most people display despair We are now members of God’s family, chosen and made holy by rather than live for destiny. A life with meaning fuels actions Him, now His own special people. that lead to accomplishment. We are what we do, and many have Second is purpose—what am I supposed to do? missed the meaning of life because we who are Christians have

30 EVANGEL •• mar 2015 been careless with the precious commodities of time, talents, and • “Life is a big canvas, and you should throw all the paint on it treasure. As we have discussions with non-Christians, we must you can” (Danny Kaye). explain that life will release its wonders only as they practice • “Philosophers can debate the meaning of life, but you need consistent positive conduct . . . and we must show them how to a Lord who can declare the meaning of life” (Max Lucado). do this. • “If you can’t figure out your pur- Be caring and compassionate. People may not remember what pose, figure out your passion; for you say, but they will remember what you do. Care and compas- your passion will lead you right sion are vital tools at our disposal. As we walk and work among into your purpose” (T. D. Jakes). non-Christians, we must be kind and encourage them. If they are As a person of faith, I look to the in need, we must help them if we can. Care and compassion can Scriptures to give me the under- set the atmosphere for frank discussion. Care and compassion standing of life. I will lift up three allow us to see the environment of the nonbeliever in a new light. passages that have helped shape my When I see where the non-Christian is coming from and desires to understanding: go, I pray my friendship will help them find the right path. This question of meaning is never going away. Maybe God • “Now acquaint yourself with Him has wired us all with this question to put us on the quest to find and be at peace; thereby good will our common ground, display consistent conduct, and show care come to you” (Job 22:21 MEV). and compassion. • “For I know the plans that I have for you, says the Lord, Recent civil unrest has reminded us that “life matters”; thus, plans for peace and not for evil, to give you a future and a it has meaning. If that meaning is harnessed, it will no doubt lead hope. Then you shall call upon Me, and you shall come and to the Lord Jesus Christ—the Author and Finisher of our faith— pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You shall seek Me and the One who orders our steps so our living will not be in vain. find Me, when you shall search for Me with all your heart” (Jer. 29:11-13 MEV). christ gives purpose • “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep DWIGHT T. SPIVEY is administrative bishop for the Church of my commandments; for length of days and long life and God in Michigan. peace will they add to you. Do not let mercy and truth for- THE MEANING OF LIFE has been pondered since the dawn sake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the of time. Many parents have had a child ask, “Why was I born?” tablet of your heart, so you will find favor and good under- What is the answer? standing in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord In 1860, Milton Bradley invented a board game called “The with all your heart, and lean not on your own understand- Game of Life.” Originally, it was called “The Checkered Game of ing; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct Life.” It was the first game he had printed and mass-produced. your paths” (Prov. 3:1-6 MEV). The object of the game was to collect money and “life tiles.” Based on the Scriptures, life is the following to me: The winner was the one with the most money at the end of • A gift from my Creator the game. Many notables have weighed in on the topic of life’s meaning: • A trust that He will direct me as I navigate through each day • “Life is the sum of all of your choices” (Albert Camus). • “In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about • Something to share with those whom He has directed life; it goes on” (Robert Frost). to cross my path • “To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, • A foundation to pass to those who follow after me that is all” (Oscar Wilde). • A future to all who will follow Him. • “To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of In short, a purposeful life comes through following the One becoming, is the only end of life” (Robert Louis Stevenson). who gives life—Jesus Christ.

EVANGEL •• mar 2015 31 PEOPLE AND EVENTS pentecostal research center receives award Letters to the Nashville, TN—The Society movements as well as the Church of Tennessee Archivists (STA) of God. EDITOR recently presented the John H. The Dixon Pentecostal Thweatt Archival Advancement Research Center is the archives of Send your comments to the editor at Award to the Dixon Pentecostal the Church of God and one of the [email protected] Research Center. The annual world’s most significant collection award acknowledges significant of books and other resources that contributions to the advancement document the global Pentecostal n I JUST READ “Breaking Financial Strongholds” (January Evangel) of archives and archival issues movement. Charles W. Conn and loved it! I was reminded of when I was first married and neither within Tennessee. The STA founded the center on the campus of us were used to paying all the monthly bills. The second month of commended the research center of Lee University in 1971. The bills came around, and we were $30 short. My husband flipped! What for its collections that emphasize center holds more than 10,000 were we going to do? Neither of us wanted to ask our parents for the role of religious traditions books and other library materials as help, so I told him, “Let’s pray about it, and God will take care of it.” in Tennessee and recognized well as personal papers and records My parents had been in the ministry for many years, so I knew what it the staff for actively promoting of individuals and institutions was to live by faith. these collections, for encouraging related to the Church of God. Dr. I prayed and prayed, wondering how God would move. One archival best practices, and David G. Roebuck has directed the afternoon I decided to go through the bags and bows that were left for working to document the center since 1997 and serves as from our bridal shower. One of the bags fell from the closet shelf as Pentecostal and Charismatic historian for the Church of God. I eased them down. I reached to pick it up and saw a different color in it. As I opened the bag to investigate, there was a personal check Director David looking back at me for $30! I began to praise and pray, and laugh and Roebuck cry! That is one awesome God! I knew God heard my prayers . . . and and He still does!—Kimley Edwards Archivist Melissa Hope n I RECEIVED THE DECEMBER 2014 issue of the Evangel and saw the back page advertising the Christian Doctrine books by French Arrington. I am currently incarcerated in the Walla Walla State Penitentiary for 20 years . . . or until the good Lord decides differently. Our library here has about 150 religious books—13 of which are on various “covens” and satanic worship. My father has sent several good religious books. Would you happen to have any books you’d like to donate that we could read? Anything I receive I read, write a “book report” to my wife, and then give to other guys here or donate to the library. I attended Lee University years ago. My dad and brother also Don’t rationalize it, and don’t went to the School of Theology [now Pentecostal Theological boundaries reason with it—run from it. Seminary].—Jonathan K Continued from page 21 Flee it as fast as you can.” Editor’s note: Subscriptions to the Evangel are provided to prisons through marriage, homosexuality was God says this for His glory. the EvangelCare fund. To contribute to this cause, write to Elaine McDavid condoned, and prostitution And God says this for our at Pathway Press, 1080 Montgomery Ave., Cleveland, TN 37311. was common. (Not much has good. changed in 2,000 years.) So, to the church in that culture Taken from Counter Culture, David Platt is president of the day with gospel compassion, and to the church in our by David Platt. Copyright © International Mission Board, conviction, and courage. Issues culture, God says, “Flee from 2015. Used by a best-selling author, and the covered include poverty, abor- sexual immorality—any and permission of founder of Radical (radical.net). tion, orphan and widow care, all sexual thinking, looking, Tyndale House sex slavery, marriage, sexual desiring, touching, speaking, Publishers, Counter Culture is a call for morality, racism and ethnicity, and acting outside of marriage Inc. All rights Christians to respond to many religious liberty, and unreached between a man and a woman. reserved. of the critical social issues of our people groups.

32 EVANGEL • mar 2015 For daily news updates about what’s happening in the Church of God and Evangelical world, visit FAITH NEWS NETWORK, at www.faithnews.cc.

DECEASED MINISTERS n BENITEZ, José M.; 83; n LOCKLEAR, Numer Eugene; ordained bishop; New York; 63; ordained bishop; North Naida Benitez (wife) Carolina; Pamela Locklear (wife)

n CLARK, Charles Milton Lee; n LOWE, Melvin Arnold, Sr.; 76; 64; exhorter; Texas; Geneva exhorter; Texas; Mary Ann Lowe Brazell Clark (wife) (wife)

n DAY-GIBSON, Eileen H.; n MONTOYA, Martha; 64; 83; exhorter; Ohio; Hilda exhorter; North Carolina; Luis Dobson (sister) Montoya (husband)

n FEGLEY, Margaret P.; 90; n MORRISON, David Wayne; exhorter; Pennsylvania; Tamela 64; ordained bishop; Michigan; celebrate heritage sunday Livengood (niece) Marie Morrison (wife) Middlesex, NC—Every out the event. Sing hymns and Church of God congregation choruses from the past that have n FOSTER, Rena; 77; n PALOMO, Roberto C.; 86; should regularly celebrate a a particular meaning to the local exhorter; Mississippi; Leodis exhorter; Texas; Esther Palomo- Heritage Sunday. This day can congregation. A display of old Foster (husband) Meska (daughter) be used to acknowledge God’s photographs and memorabilia n GAMMILL, Minnie; 94; n REESOR, James B.; 99; special blessings and favor on the should be displayed. ordained minister; Mississippi; ordained bishop; Florida; local congregation in the past, The best source of materials William Gammill (son) LaWanda Reesor (wife) and to help chart the course of the and information for your Heritage church into the future. Day observance will be older n HARRISON, James R.; n STAFFORD, Thomas E., Jr.; Scriptures indicate we should members and prominent families 79; ordained bishop; Texas; 68; ordained bishop; Michigan; remember and reflect on the past. of the congregation. Interviews Charlene Harrison (wife) Shirley Stafford (wife) Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John should be conducted to provide wrote narratives of the life of Christ the planning team with materi- n HEIL, Wayne W.; 90; n TURNER, Burnett Wright; and His birthing the Church. Luke, als for the celebration. Interviews ordained bishop; Indiana; 89; exhorter; South Carolina; in the Book of Acts, provided us should be recorded, edited for Duane Heil (son) C. B. Turner (son) the history of the first local church errors and time restraints, and n KIRK, Bobby Howard; 66; n WHITTON, Iris M.; 82; (Jerusalem) and its early activities. presented in short video clips or ordained bishop; Texas; Linda exhorter; Florida; Calbert The apostle Paul wrote letters of vignettes to the congregation. Kirk (wife) Whitton (husband) instruction to the early churches With the availability of smart- that included historical information phones, it is easy to conduct an and inspiration. The psalmist said, interview and edit the video for use past, special church services, pastor can challenge the con- “We will tell the next generation in the church service. The church previous church buildings, former gregation regarding the future. about the glorious deeds of the may wish to combine several pastors, and more. Reflecting on the events of the Lord, about his power and his interviews and history notes into It is important to give the past can often serve as an inspira- mighty wonders” (Ps. 78:4 NLT). a longer video for presentation to parishioners something as a tion and challenge for movement Heritage Sunday could be the church during the celebration remembrance of the celebration into the future. celebrated on Pentecost Sunday service. day—something to keep for future “Only be careful, and watch or on the Sunday nearest August In addition to video vignettes, reference. Include a short history yourselves closely so that you 19th—the birthday of the Church you might prepare a PowerPoint of the church, a timeline, copies of do not forget the things your of God. Careful planning, research, presentation for the congregation. old photographs, or other items as eyes have seen or let them fade and promotion will produce This presentation would give visual an insert into the church bulletin from your heart as long as you interesting material to inspire information and photographs of for the Heritage Sunday service. live. Teach them to your children appreciation and excitement for the history of the local church. You As a conclusion to the and to their children after them.” the congregation. might include photos of leading Heritage Day celebration, after (Deut. 4:9 NIV)—Joel Trammel A team must be appointed to members who are deceased, looking back at the history and (Church of God Historical Commis- work with the pastor in carrying Sunday school classes from the legacy of the local church, the sion member)

EVANGEL • mar 2015 33 CHURCH OF GOD CHRONICLES

by david g. roebuck

“Of like precious faith” establishing the church of god in south africa

N THE EVENING of of the Full Gospel Church of South Africa. plete the union. At their March meeting, Tuesday, March 6, 1951, Hearing that Saayman was on his way to the Executive Council of the Full Gospel General Overseer H. L. tour the United States, Chesser invited Church entered into an agreement with Chesser penned a letter him to visit the Church of God. the Church of God. The agreement opened to Evangel editor J. D. Saayman’s visit culminated in his many doors for the Church of God to sup- Bright.O Chesser had been reporting to joining the Church of God and preach- port what God was already doing in South Evangel readers for almost a month as he ing at the 1950 General Assembly, where Africa and undergird a rapid expansion of and World Missions director J. H. Walker delegates gave an offering for building ministry there. Sr. traveled 4,000 miles by car from the churches in South Africa. The Church The amalgamation agreement signed Belgian Congo to Johannesburg, South of God also appointed Saayman as the on March 28, 1951, committed to carry Africa. the gospel to all races In his March let- and ethnic groups in ter, Chesser wrote: South Africa under “Prospects look prom- the name “Full Gos- ising for the accom- pel Church of God in plishment of unity Southern Africa.” By between the Church virtue of their offices, of God and the Full the moderator of Gospel Church of the church in South South Africa. We Africa would sit with have received a very the International warm welcome from Executive Council the brethren we have at the international met, and certainly offices in Cleveland, the two groups have Tennessee, and the many things in com- general overseer mon. The fellowship would sit with the is grand; the men we Executive Council of have met seem to be the national office in very fine men. [It] South Africa. Each will be several days Seated at the table are signers of the amalgamation agreement: J. H. Walker Sr.; F. J. M. Beetge, body agreed to rec- yet before the con- moderator of the Full Gospel Church; H. L. Chesser; and H. R. Carter, secretary general of the Full ognize the ministers vention convenes, Gospel Church. Witnessing the ceremony are J. H. Saayman, Mrs. Saayman, and A. H. Cooper. and members of the and we shall then other body. meet the Executive Council in full. We denomination’s missions representative When the amalgamation ceremony have met several of them already, and to countries in the southern region of the was concluded in 1951, the Church of surely they are brethren of like precious African continent, including the Union of God received 30,000 new members. faith.” South Africa. Today, our ministry in South Africa Chesser had anticipated the possibility Seeing the value of a partnership includes more than 300,000 members of this trip since May 1949 when he and between the Church of God and the Full “of like precious faith.” other Church of God leaders attended the Gospel Church, Chesser and Saayman World Pentecostal Conference in Paris. At began to work toward an amalgamation David G. Roebuck, Ph.D., is the Church this second global gathering of Pentecos- of the two Pentecostal bodies. Their labor of God historian and director of the Dixon tal denominations, he met J. H. Saayman, proved successful and led to Chesser and Pentecostal Research Center in Cleveland, who was the assistant general moderator Walker’s trip to Johannesburg to com- Tennessee. [email protected]

34 EVANGEL • mar 2015