CHURCH OF GOD Evangel JANUARY 2014
remember israel • obey radically pray faithfully • speak up quit pretending • choose to worship
january 2014 Contents volume 104 n issue 1
AS CHRISTIANS, what does Jesus Christ expect of us in 2014? • He expects us to “love God, and keep his commandments” (1 John 5:2). • He expects us “always to pray, and not to faint” (Luke 18:1). • He expects us to “not be like the hypocrites” (Matt. 6:5 NIV), but instead to serve Him in humble sincerity. • He expects us to “not be ashamed to testify about our Lord” (2 Tim. 1:8 NIV), but instead to boldly speak up for Him. • He expects us to “admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone” (1 Thess. 5:14 NASB).
divine expectations 10 Radical Obedience by David White Sacrifice . . . trust . . . yield . . . persist 12 We Must Never Forget Israel by Michael Utterback “One flock, one Shepherd” 14 From Discipline to Delight by LaVoy Newton Leading a life of prayer 16 An Eagle Scout’s Courageous Decision by Victor Morris Standing for morality 17 Speak Up! by Dewayne Hamby We need holy boldness. 18 My Journey to Pro-Life Ministry by Sherry Ivy Reed Reaching the unborn and their parents columns 20 Quit Pretending! by Charlotte Gambill Join God’s great adventure. 5 In Covenant, Mark L. Williams 7 On My Mind, Lance Colkmire 22 Choose to Worship by Scott Rasco 30 Where Are They Now? David Roebuck Going beyond emotion departments 23 Gathering Sticks by Daniel Sylverston Do the small things. 4 Ministry Snapshot 6 By the Numbers features 8 Currents 24 Evangel Interview: The VITAL Initiative 26 Viewpoints A new focus on small churches 28 People and Events
EVANGEL • jan 2014 3 PUBLICATIONS MINISTRIES DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR MINISTRY SNAPSHOT M. Thomas Propes DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS Participants in the Neighbor Project (sponsored by City Church of Chattanooga) Terry Hart serve Bess T. Shepherd Elementary School by updating the landscaping, adding ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT mulch to the playground, and painting. Raymond Hodge 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 Stephen Darnell, Les Higgins, Ray E. Hurt, Cheryl Johns, David Nitz , Tony Cooper, Antonio Richardson If you have a ministry photo to be considered for this page, send it to [email protected].
INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE December Evangel Poll Mark L. Williams, David M. Griffis, J. David Stephens, What is your favorite way to celebrate the Christmas story? Wallace J. Sibley, M. Thomas Propes
Read it from the Bible to my family - 44.4% CHURCH OF GOD congregations meet through- out the United States and in more than 180 other countries. To find a church and times of services near you, access the church website, www.churchofgod.org, or fax your request to 423-478-7616. Listen to a minister preach about it - 11.1% Publication of material in the Evangel does not nec- essarily imply endorsement of the Church of God. The Church of God Evangel (ISSN 0745-6778) is edited and published monthly. n Church of God Publishing House, 1080 Montgomery Ave., P.O. Visit a live Nativity display - 5.6% Box 2250, Cleveland, TN 37320-2250 n Subscrip- tion rates: Single subscription per year $17, Canada $24, Bundle of 15 per month $17, Canada $28, Bundle of 5 per month $7.50, Canada $11.25 n Single copy $1.50 n Periodical postage paid at Cleveland, TN 37311 and at additional mailing Watch a movie or play about Christ’s birth - 13.9% offices n ©2014 Church of God Publications n All rights reserved n POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Evangel, P.O. Box 2250, Cleveland, TN 37320-2250. (USPS 112-240)
Sing hymns that tell the story - 25% MEMBER OF THE EVANGELICAL PRESS ASSOCIATION AND THE INTERNATIONAL PENTECOSTAL PRESS 4 EVANGELASSOCIATION • jan 2014 IN COVENANT mark l. williams general overseer
365 UNOPENED TOMORROWS HE NEW YEAR is a great time and “Do you get better gas mileage when Do not go for a new beginning. George driving with the air conditioner on or with Meredith called the anticipation the windows open?” But when it comes to into your Tof a new year “the rapture of finding an answer to questions about life’s the forward look.” One newspaper head- purpose, Adams is short on advice. tomorrows lined New Year’s Day with the caption The late author Henry Miller said, “Out Where the New Begins.” “Life has to be given a meaning because of with a sense Before us are 365 unopened tomor- the obvious fact that it has no meaning.” rows, each cloaked with mystery that only However, when we come to the Scrip- of foreboding time will reveal. tures, we see life does have meaning. Men In a Peanuts cartoon, Lucy says to and women are not creatures of fate. We confusion that Charlie Brown, “Life is a mystery, Charlie are not products of random selection nor Brown. Do you know the answer?” are we simply the highest rung on the comes through Charlie Brown replies: “Be kind. Don’t evolutionary ladder. smoke. Be prompt. Smile a lot. Eat sen- The meaning of life is not found in exis- “feeling” your sibly. Avoid cavities, and mark your bal- tentialism, humanism, realism, stoicism, lot carefully. Avoid too much sun. Send or any other “ism.” The answer is found in way through the overseas packages early. Love all creatures Him who is “the bread of life” (John 6:35), above and below. Insure your belongings “the living water” (4:10), “the resurrection challenges of and try to keep the ball low.” and the life” (11:25), and “the way, the Before he can get out another plati- truth, and the life” (14:6)—Jesus Christ. contemporary tude, Lucy interrupts, “Hold real still, Do not face the future with fear. because I am going to hit you a very sharp Do not go into your tomorrows with living. blow on the nose!” a sense of foreboding confusion that Many of us can understand Lucy’s comes through “feeling” your way frustration. After all, we want to find the through the decisions and challenges of answer to life. We want to live to the full- contemporary living. Peace, assurance, est and meet our tomorrows with a sense and confidence are all available to you. of confidence, assurance, and peace. But You can begin this New Year with the where do we go to find the answers? Who sense of divine enablement that comes is wise enough to direct our path? Who is through an intimate relationship with discerning enough to see into the future God through His Son, Jesus Christ. With and get us on the right track, and then God, all things are still possible, and the keep us on the right track? future is as bright as His promises! Cecil Adams, who calls himself “the So, walk through the unopened days world’s smartest human,” writes a nation- of the New Year in the following way: ally syndicated column in which he • In happy moments, praise God. attempts to succinctly explain the myster- • In difficult moments, seek God. ies of the cosmos. He has answered ques- • In quiet moments, worship God. tions such as “Do turkeys really drown • In painful moments, trust God. when they look up during rainstorms?” • Every moment, thank God.
EVANGEL • jan 2014 5 BY THE NUMBERS
FIVE FACTS ABOUT ATHEISTS 1. The number of people who identify themselves as atheists in the United States has been rising, modestly but steadily, in recent years. A Pew Forum aggregated poll shows that 2.4% of American adults say they are atheists when asked about their religious identity, up from 1.6% in 2007. 2. Atheists, in general, are more likely to be male and younger than the overall population (67% are men; 38% are ages 18-29). About four in 10 atheists (43%) have a college degree, compared with 29% of the general public. TOP NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS 1. Lose weight. 2. Get organized. 3. Spend less, save more. 4. Enjoy life to the fullest. 5. Stay fit and healthy. 6. Learn something exciting. 7. Quit smoking. 8. Help others in their dreams. 9. Fall in love. 10. Spend more time with family. —Journal of Clinical Psychology (University of Scranton, Dec. 2012)
3. Although the literal definition of atheist is “a person State Laws Regulating Abortion Providers who believes that God does not exist,” 14% of those who call themselves atheists also say they believe in States that require abortion States that require abortion clinics to meet ambulatory doctors to have admitting God or a universal spirit. Alternatively, there are many surgical standards (26) privileges at a local hospital (12) people who fit the dictionary definition of atheist but do not call themselves atheists. More Americans say they do not believe in God or a universal spirit (7%) than say they are atheists (2.4%). 4. Not all atheists see a contradiction between atheism and spirituality. A quarter (26%) say they think of themselves as spiritual people, and 3% consider themselves religious people. Four in 10 atheists (41%) say they often think about the meaning and purpose of life. 5. Among atheists, 82% say they either often (52%) or sometimes (30%) feel a deep connection with nature and the earth; among all American adults, 85% either often (58%) or sometimes (26%) feel such a connection. Source: Guttmacher Institute / Pew Research Center —pewforum.org
6 EVANGEL • jan 2014 ON MY MIND lance colkmire editor GOD’S ROAD SIGNS HIS SCHOOL YEAR, I’m leading to show us His plan so we can decide from God, it will never contradict the a weekly after-school Bible class whether or not to accept it, we will keep Bible. Often, God will use more than for three at-risk middle-school waiting. Instead, we first must be in a one means to confirm His leading. Tboys. I quickly discovered that committed relationship with Him. Consider Joy Barnett, whose story this trio knew almost nothing about the 2. God primarily reveals His is told in her son’s book, Dream Again. Bible, so I’m guiding them through major will through His Word. The psalmist One night this quiet pastor’s wife over- events in Genesis. declared to God, “I’m single-minded in heard some people say about her, “She When teaching about God making pursuit of you; don’t let me miss the road can’t do much of anything!” covenant with Abraham, I said, “God had a signs you’ve posted” (119:10 TM). Here She was devastated, and she stayed plan for Abraham’s life, and He has a plan are a few of those “road signs”: awake all night long, silently praying. for your life.” One of the boys immediately • “Don’t let us YIELD to temptation” When morning finally dawned, she replied, “Does God really have a plan for (Matt. 6:13 NLT). remembered the story of Moses, who my life?” also felt worthless until God asked him, For this rowdy sixth grader from a If we are “What is that in thine hand?” (Ex. 4:2). crime-scarred family, this truth was a waiting for Joy sensed God asking her, What is in great revelation . . . as it should be for all your hand? of us. The question we then ask is, How do God to show She knew she had the gift of faith I discover God’s plan for my life? us His plan so and artistic skill, and she gave them to Time for an embarrassing confession. the Lord. “She became an outstanding When I was in high school, I felt uneasy we can decide pastor’s wife,” her son wrote. “She was about a certain girl I wanted to date. So whether or not a terrific counselor, drama and choir one day in my bedroom, I closed my eyes director, teacher, and much sought-after and prayed, “Lord, when I look at my to accept it, public speaker.” clock, if it is OK for me to date her, let the we will keep We should follow the example of second hand be between the 10 and the 2. Joy Barnett, who lived out Proverbs Amen.” waiting. 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your I opened my eyes, and the answer was • “Never STOP praying” (1 Thess. 5:17 heart; do not depend on your own no! So I tried again. “Lord, if it is OK for NLT). understanding. Seek his will in all you me to date this girl, let the second hand be • “Do not TURN to the right nor to do, and he will show you which path to between the 4 and the 8. Amen.” the left; TURN your foot from evil” (Prov. take” (NLT). I looked, and this time the answer was 4:27 NASB). yes . . . leaving me more uncertain than • “Everyone must be quick to hear, before I prayed. SLOW to speak and SLOW to anger” While God did miraculously use a time- (James 1:19 NASB). piece (a sundial) to show Hezekiah that his If we are studying God’s Word, apply- life would be extended (Isa. 38:4-8), this ing it to our lives, and obeying it through is not how God usually reveals His will. God’s help, we are following God’s will. Instead, the Lord typically guides through 3. While we are living in obedience a divine process. to God’s Word, at times He will give 1. God reveals His will to indi- us a specific path to follow. This direc- viduals who are in relationship with tive might come through a divine impres- Four ways to Him. The psalmist prayed, “Teach me sion while we are praying . . . a word of contact the editor: to do Your will, for You are my God. Let knowledge or prophecy someone speaks • [email protected] • 423-478-7592 your good Spirit lead me on level ground” to us . . . an opportunity that opens to us • Church of God Evangel on Facebook (143:10 NASB). If we are waiting for God . . . or by some other means. If it is a word • Box 2250, Cleveland, TN 37320-2250
EVANGEL • jan 2014 7 CURRENTS
The purpose of CURRENTS is to inform readers of trends and events influencing the culture.
rebrand the mainline church? n WHO ARE THE mainline Protestants today? Vintage Protestants? The VPCC— Vanishing Progressive Christian Church? The Legacy Church? Half a century ago, the denominations under the mainline umbrella dominated the American faith landscape. Now, after Diogo Morgado plays Jesus in decades of declining numbers, only about the new movie one in five U.S. adults identifies with a Son of God. mainline denomination such as United Methodists, the Episcopal Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the bible on the big screen Presbyterian Church (USA), and American n TEN YEARS AFTER the blockbuster have announced that the series’ film adap- Baptists. success of Mel Gibson’s The Passion of tation Son of God will be released in the- Could replacing the mainline name the Christ, which earned $611.9 million aters nationwide in February with 20th help stem the slide? The challenge came worldwide, Hollywood studios are look- Century Fox. from scholar and Presbyterian pastor ing to the Scriptures for movie material. As more people are sitting in front Carol Howard Merritt. Writing in the Future films include these: of the TV on a Sunday morning rather venerable Christian Century magazine, • Paramount will release Noah, a $125 than in church, “filmmakers are the new she called for a new brand that conveys million adaptation starring Russell Crowe, high priests of our culture,” said public- her view of the mainline churches’ rising in 2014. relations specialist A. Larry Ross. “For diversity and social justice leadership. • 20th Century Fox is developing many faith and family films, the impact “Mainline was a good historic marker, Exodus, a film about Moses, featuring on the screen is less the answers given but the future needs to reflect who we are Christian Bale. than it is the questions asked that you now,” said Merritt, an author and speaker • Warner Brothers has another Moses- could discuss over coffee with someone who lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee. (Tra- themed film titled Gods and Kings. who would never go to church with you dition holds that the term “mainline” was • Warner Brothers also is working on but go to a movie with you.” a film on Pontius Pilate, rumored to pos- Independent films have dealt with the sibly include Brad Pitt. Bible in the past, but it’s significant that • Sony is producing Will Smith’s The major Hollywood studios are taking this Redemption of Cain, on the sibling rivalry up, said Tom Allen, a partner in Allied of Cain and Abel. Faith & Family, a Hollywood marketing • LD Entertainment is financially back- firm. “We’re beyond the cheap ministry ing Resurrection, a drama set immediately movies that appeal only to a certain con- after Jesus’ death and directed by Kevin stituency,” he said. Reynolds. As Hollywood looks to epic tales of • Lionsgate has been developing Mary, floods, burning bushes, and parting seas, Mother of Christ, described as a prequel to films with biblical themes will continue to The Passion of the Christ, and rumored to pop up. Nicolas Cage is slated to star in Left include Ben Kingsley. Behind, a movie based on the best-selling Alongside the string of upcoming book series. Sony’s adaption of the popular Bible-related films, producers from the book Heaven Is for Real is also scheduled for History Channel’s The Bible miniseries this year.—Sarah Pulliam Bailey, RNS
8 EVANGEL • jan 2014 born in the tony suburbs just outside Phil- adelphia, along the Pennsylvania Railroad Main Line, that defined the mostly white, mostly affluent churches in the area.) Religion News Service took up the challenge, inviting votes and comments in an informal survey. More than 200 people voted, many posting comments that ranged from theological to historical, serious to snarky: “Liberal Church” led with 24 percent Gavin MacLeod and his of the votes. But the word carried a double wife, Patti, renewing whammy. Some liked the social and politi- their wedding vows on Valentine’s Day cal connotation. Others used “liberal” as a slam on a church they thought was too loose on doctrines of sin and salvation. Merritt said Monday she preferred a differ- ‘this is your captain speaking’ ent spin: “Liberationist Church,” she said, n TO MANY, he is Murray from The Mary marriage behind, his wife still had hope. “because it taps into the good news that Tyler Moore Show, or Captain Stubing from She had helped form a support group our beliefs lead us to seek liberation for all The Love Boat. However, Gavin MacLeod called LADIES (“Life After Divorce Is the oppressed, to expand freedom for all.” says his new calling is “ambassador for Eventually Sane”), and had prayed that Next, at 17 percent, were those who Christ.” The 82-year-old actor is out with her ex-husband would come back to her. said labels just don’t work for religious a new book, This Is Your Captain Speaking: Their reunion was capped by his baptism distinctions anymore. National surveys My Fantastic Voyage Through Hollywood, at Church on the Way, a Pentecostal con- find growing numbers just want to call Faith & Life. gregation in the San Fernando Valley. themselves “Christian.” He writes about how his star-studded In 1985, they had their second wedding “Old Line” drew 6 percent, which career was interspersed with a faith walk at a “Born-Again Marriages” conference. fits, since mainliners have the greatest that began as a Roman Catholic, detoured MacLeod relates in his book how he percentage of members age 65 and older through the New Age movement in the led Ted Knight, his ailing former co-star of any Christian tradition. “Grandma’s 1970s, and ended up firmly planted in the on Mary Tyler Moore, to repeat a prayer of Church” garnered 3 percent of the vote. Pentecostal faith. That path included depres- commitment to Christ. Most folks—46 percent—preferred sion, alcohol, and divorce, but he credits After The Love Boat ended in 1986, their own picks. For instance, social sci- God’s grace with carrying him through. Paul Crouch of Trinity Broadcasting Net- entist and blogger Mark Silk would stick He said his acting career was capped work asked the remarried MacLeods to with mainline because “it identifies a social with the 2009 Christian movie, The Secrets co-host Back on Course—a program that location in American communities—a of Jonathan Sperry, in which he played an encouraged couples with marital problems. religious tradition that takes a broad view old man who teaches Bible lessons to boys “We still get letters and communications of its responsibilities to the community at in his neighborhood. from people from all over the world whose large—that continues to serve as mean- MacLeod said family ties, and especially lives have been affected,” said MacLeod of ingful shorthand.” his second wife, Patti, are the reason for the TBN show that aired for 17 years. Steven Hunter said names, new or old, his focus on faith. They married in 1974 MacLeod continues to serve as ambas- would not matter. “People didn’t leave but divorced while he was starring on The sador for Princess Cruises, a post he has these churches because of marketing or Love Boat. In 1984, when his mother had held for almost 30 years, and that has branding, and they won’t come back for it brain surgery, he promised Jesus that if his become a place for him to sometimes wit- either. Sorry. But you can’t water down a mother survived, he would live for Him. ness about Christ. Recently, he was asked faith until it’s essentially meaningless and “Right after I did that, something told to speak at a nondenominational Sunday then expect to still draw people.” me to call Patti, who I hadn’t talked to for service aboard a Mediterranean cruise. Pastor Merritt ultimately came up three years,” said MacLeod, whose mother “I got up there to tell people what God with her own first choice: “Social Justice survived for almost two more decades. has done in my life,” said MacLeod. “I’ll go Christian.”—Cathy Lynn Grossman, RNS Turns out, while he had left his second anyplace to give my testimony.”—RNS
EVANGEL • jan 2014 9 by david white radical obedience sacrifice …trust…yield…persist BRAHAM KNEW that voice, To obey God’s command against lying, knowing his mug was on Egypt’s most- and it could only mean one we might have to sacrifice the chance to wanted list. thing: God was about to do escape undetected from the current mess something radical, and He we’re in. To obey God’s call to forgive our To the apostle Peter, it meant going into A Cornelius the Gentile’s home, where no would expect the same in return. enemies, we might have to forfeit owner- ship of a hard-fought grudge. self-respecting Jew had ever gone before. It had worked this way since the “father of faith” was simply known as Abram. It Some acts of obedience seem simple What does radical obedience look like to started when God called him to leave his enough, because the sacrifice is small. It’s you? home, his country, his family heritage— easy for a Chistian to not be a drunkard No Explanation Given everything he had ever known—and go to if he never had a drinking problem in the a place he had never seen. That followed first place. Other acts of obedience—any For me, it meant leaving a dream job to with a staggering promise about his family volunteers to offer up your own kid on a become a full-time pastor at the Porter- tree blessing all the world ville Church of God in (Gen. 12:1-3). And how central California in 2011. could he forget the time the I was covering the NFL for Lord made him laugh out the San Francisco Chronicle, loud by telling 100-year-old appearing on ESPN, trav- Abraham he would father eling the country, taking a child with his 90-year-old 10-week vacations in the wife (17:15-17)? off-season, and enjoying a comfortable bank balance. When God spoke, radical came out. This day would After five years at the be no different. God said to Chronicle, and 17 years in Abraham, “Take now thy sportswriting, God told son, thine only son Isaac, me to give up my career— whom thou lovest, and get my only career, the career thee into the land of Mori- that I loved—and go to a ah; and offer him there for place He would show me. a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of” mountain?—require us to take a turn for He did not tell me how it would work out. (22:2). the radical. He did not explain how my family of five would make ends meet when our annual No explanations given. No reasons Put another way, radical obedience is not income took a serious haircut. He didn’t offered. Not even an assurance that calculated by the size and magnitude of even promise me years of ministerial suc- everything would turn out peachy. Just God’s commands. Instead, it is measured cess and prosperity. a radical command that required radical by what we perceive to be the width and obedience, because with God, there is no breadth of the sacrifice God is asking of God just issued a radical edict: Go. No other kind. us when it’s time to pick up our end of the explanation given. No assurances granted. Sacrifice Required piano. Some relatives thought I’d lost my mind for even considering it. One state official The prophet Samuel told King Saul, “To For Abraham, it meant being willing to take joked, “Either this is really God, or you’re obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Sam. a blade and a torch to his and Sarah’s only the stupidest man in California to leave 15:22), and he’s right: obedience is better. son—the son of promise, whom he loved. what you’re doing.” But by no means are they mutually exclu- sive, because obedience to God is always For Moses, it meant stuttering his way The question, though, was not how could going to require some level of sacrifice. into Pharaoh’s court to free God’s people, I afford to walk away from all I’ve ever
10 EVANGEL • jan 2014 known. The real mind-bender was, how was old enough to understand something further instruction. We know what He could I afford to not go where God was wasn’t adding up in this sacrifice. Wood . . . promised at the outset of this journey, sending me? check. Fire . . . check. But where is the lamb, just as Isaac knew where his family lineage Dad? would lead, but what do we do when His Refusing to be radical in our obedience voice goes silent? is to be disobedient. Ask King Saul how God did not tell Isaac a word about any of half-measured obedience worked out for this. Abraham was the one given specific For me, that moment came two years into him that day when Samuel called him out instructions; Isaac was left in the dark. my pastoral ministry. I had no doubt God for not sacrificing everything, as God had had called me. It’s just that things weren’t commanded (1 Sam. 15:9, 26). Imagine what Isaac had to be thinking as going as I planned. Scandals rocked us to his aged father began to bind him with the core. The financial losses were stag- Yielding Our Will ropes. Think of what raced through his gering. Two years of attendance growth If God is giving us a radical command, it’s mind as his father laid him on the altar. began to stagnate. because He wants to bring radical change What was Isaac’s response when his father and results in our lives. Ordinary living picked up the knife to slay him? I began to wonder what was going on, yields ordinary results. The “same old” even as I was approached with constant produces nothing but more of the same. opportunities to go back to sportswrit- For something radical to happen around ing and TV reporting. The job offers kept here, maybe we have to do some radical Isaac didn’t coming, unsolicited and quickly dismissed. things. kick and scream But as things got worse on the outside, I began to ask God if maybe He wasn’t Like, give what we love most to God—our against God’s sending me back where I came from— Isaacs, our careers. And go where He radicall y that this had been a season of learning tells us, to new mountains with different which had run its course. peaks. different plan. All we see is God didn’t tell me what was going on. He We must follow Abraham’s example—not didn’t say much of anything at all to me sure how it’s all going to shake out but Isaac’s perfect as I prayed for an answer. His Spirit just confident enough to tell the servants, submission. showed me that, sometimes, we must “We’ll be back.” Abraham knew God’s have the radical obedience of Isaac and tie voice; as His sheep, so do we (John our lives to the altar as “a living sacrifice, 10:27). God told him to slay his child on a There is no record of Isaac resisting. holy, acceptable unto God” (Rom. 12:1) fire pit, and Abraham “rose up, and went Surely, he was strong enough to fight off even when we’re not hearing from Him in unto the place of which God had told him” a man who was over 100 years old. Isaac a crisis—even when it seems it’s all com- (Gen. 22:3). So must we obey no matter could have wrestled his way to freedom ing undone. the sacrifice, lest we sacrifice God’s will for and fended off an elderly Abraham, or at our lives. least gone down swinging. The results since that time have been nothing short of radical. Lives have Radical instructions, radical response. Isaac was a young man with a future. No been saved, people have been baptized Only, Abraham’s obedience wasn’t even doubt, Isaac had his own dreams. He had in water, teens have been filled with the the most radical to go down that day on plans to get married, raise a family, find Holy Spirit, and wounded saints have Mount Moriah. his own trade, and live up to the potential been restored. While I didn’t hear God’s he had as the future heir of the Abrahamic voice thunder from heaven, I heard a still, Lost in this story of sacrifice is Isaac, who covenant. small whisper remind me “the gifts and likely was not a child. The Bible does not calling of God are without repentance” Yet, Isaac didn’t kick and scream against specify his age, but it does offer some (11:29) . . . so do what you’ve been told God’s radically different plan. All we see clues. In the Hebrew language, na’ar until told otherwise. (translated “lad”) is the word Abraham is Isaac’s perfect submission, trusting his used in reference to Isaac (22:5). How- father’s word that God would provide a As Abraham and Isaac learned, God moves ever, it’s a flexible term, as seen in verse lamb (v. 8). most mightily when our radical obedience 3, where na’ar describes the “young men” When God Is Silent is met with perfect sacrifice. who were Abraham’s servants. Perhaps the most radical obedience comes David White is pastor of the Church of God We do know Isaac was old enough to carry in those times where we are like Isaac— in Porterville, California. bydw@sbcglobal the load of firewood up the mountain. He when we’re not hearing God’s voice giving .net
EVANGEL • jan 2014 11 If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill! If I do not remember you, let my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth—if I do not exalt Jerusalem above my chief joy (Ps. 137:5-6 NKJV).
by michael utterback we must never forget israel ERUSALEM! It is difficult for This compelling love for Israel I have Mine. And you shall be to Me a kingdom of me to say that name or describe is not mine alone. Over the past few priests and a holy nation” (vv. 5-6 NKJV). this land without emotion decades, the hearts of millions of Chris- To seal their calling, God descended on spilling out of every word. I am tians have been captivated by the land J the mountain with fire, completely sur- mesmerized by the sites, the history, and of Israel and the Jewish people. Without rounding it with smoke, accompanied the people—but, most of all, what I know hesitation I can tell you, it is the work of by violent shaking. Then a trumpet blast will happen here in future days. the Holy Spirit. grew louder and louder until God’s thun- From my balcony, where I am writing Israel’s Purpose derous voice was heard by every person now, I see the ancient walls surrounding Israel is unique. No other nation can right- present. Wow! What an ordination ser- Mount Moriah, where the temple of God fully claim they are the chosen people of vice! What a revelation of the purpose of once stood. Ascending from the south, I God. In the opening pages of the Bible, we Israel’s existence! see places where Jesus stood and taught hear God promising Abraham he will father Among the many responsibilities of on so many occasions. a nation that will be a blessing to every priesthood, none is more significant family on earth. He also promised the land than being the revealers of God and His After living here with my wife, Gina, for of Canaan as Israel’s inheritance forever. Word—precisely what Israel has done. many years, it still seems new. Perhaps We would know nothing about God’s exis- I’m sentimental, but anytime I travel The purpose of God’s choosing Israel is tence, the creation of the earth, the fall of from here, I come to this balcony to take a not revealed until Exodus 19. Here we humanity, and God’s efforts to bring us mental picture of the city one more time. catch a glimpse of Israel camping as a little to Himself without these revelations that When I return, it’s not long before I’m flock before Mount Sinai. Dramatically, came through the Jewish people. standing once again gazing at those walls God reveals their earthly destiny. He says and at the Mount of Olives where Christ to Israel, “You shall be a special treasure Most important, the Jews were exclusive- will return. to Me above all people; for all the earth is ly chosen to present Jesus the Messiah to
12 EVANGEL • jan 2014 the world, demonstrated by what He said And the prophet Isaiah stated it would be Today, MTI and her sister organization, to a desperately inquiring Gentile woman: Gentiles who would help bring them home: Ezra International, have over 200 Chris- “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the tian workers in the former Soviet Union Thus says the Lord God: “Behold, I house of Israel” (Matt. 15:24 NASB). will lift My hand in an oath to the helping Jews return to Israel. To date, we have assisted over 130,000 Jews to return Furthermore, all the apostles chosen nations, and set up My standard for the peoples; they shall bring your home. Also, MTI has established the Jeru- by Jesus were Jewish. The early church sons in their arms, and your daugh- salem Support Center and the Israel Sup- was Jewish, and the spreading of the ters shall be carried on their shoul- port Network of Jewish fellowships, where gospel in the first century was generally ders” (49:22 NKJV). we have assisted tens of thousands of new a Jewish movement. Of course, many in Jewish immigrants, including thousands the nations became believers and began It is no coincidence that when the Iron of Lone Soldiers (members of Israel’s mili- spreading the word as well. Curtain came down in 1991, numbers of Christian ministries from the nations, tary whose families live abroad). In A.D. 70, Jerusalem was tragically including Ministry to Israel (MTI), crossed Understanding the Spiritual destroyed and the Jews were scattered into the former Soviet Union to help bring Events of Our Time throughout the nations of the earth, Jewish people home. where they existed for over 1,900 years. These are remarkable days. In our times, Their path was unbelievably difficult, suf- after 1,900 years of waiting, we are seeing fering persecutions and expulsion from the final ingathering of believers from the one country after the other. To the casual nations while also watching the miracu- observer, their priestly calling was appar- God is calling lous return of the Jewish people to their ently withdrawn. Christians to come beloved Promised Land. With great preci- alongside the sion, the Lord is setting the stage for His Israel’s Restoration soon return to the nation of Israel. Jesus In the late 1800s, God began stirring Jewish people— said, “And other sheep I have which are the hearts of the Jews to return to their praying for not of this fold; them also I must bring, homeland as the first wave of Jewish and they will hear My voice; and there immigrants made their way from Eastern them, blessing will be one flock and one shepherd” (John Europe to reclaim their promised land. A them, and 10:16 NKJV). half century later, after the unimaginable comforting them. horrors of the Holocaust, just as the This is His work, His final intent in these prophets proclaimed, Israel and its people days—one flock, one Shepherd. came back to life in 1948, when Israel offi- cially became a nation once again. I remember one particular time in the The restoration of Israel, however, is by Ukraine when we were bringing Jews by no means complete. It is a process, not From a prophetic point of view, these are bus to the airport in Kiev to fly to Israel an event. Though they are coming home the days of restoration spoken of by the the next morning. We had ridden for physically, there is still a spiritual void in prophets. Ezekiel described Israel as noth- eight hours, and it was late. There was the hearts of many Israelis. As darkness ing more than dry bones scattered across a 40-year-old invalid woman on the bus approaches the planet, Israel will become a valley. But then he watched as the Spirit and no one was coming to help her, so I more isolated than ever. God is beckoning of God breathed on them, giving them picked her up in my arms and carried her to Christian believers to come alongside life. God said to Ezekiel: into the airport. As the automatic doors His people—praying for them, blessing Son of man, these bones are the opened, the words of verse 22 exploded them, and comforting them. whole house of Israel. They indeed in my heart: “They shall bring your sons say, “Our bones are dry, our hope is in their arms, and your daughters shall be The reason Christians are so drawn to lost, and we ourselves are cut off!” carried on their shoulders.” this land and the Jewish people is because Therefore prophesy and say to them, we have been gathered into their flock, “Thus says the Lord God: ‘Behold, O Tears began streaming down my face. The adopted into the priestly calling, and My people, I will open your graves next morning we flew 186 Jews to Israel. grafted into their olive tree. They are our and cause you to come up from your Since we chartered the flight, just before spiritual family. Like Ruth the Gentile and graves, and bring you into the land landing, I had the opportunity to speak of Israel. Then you shall know that Naomi the Jew, we are inseparable. May I am the Lord, when I have opened over the public-address system, telling we never forget. your graves, O My people, and them that their God was finally bringing brought you up from your graves’” them home. The whole plane broke out Michael Utterback is the director of Minis- (37:11-13 NKJV). into applause. try to Israel (ministrytoisrael.com).
EVANGEL • jan 2014 13 by lavoy newton
RAYER IS AS essential to our spiritual life as food is to our physical body. There are many different types of prayer mentioned in the Bible—prayers of praise, PPpetition, intercession, thanksgiving, and praying in the Spirit, just to name a few. They are all important and useful. There are times I feel led by the Holy Spirit to pray in a particular way, and this may change from day to day.
The most important element of prayer is the simple fact that we pray. Prayer is dependence on God. It is where we hum- ble ourselves before God and He turns our weaknesses into strengths through a transfer of His power.
James 4:2 says, “You do not have because you do not ask” (NKJV), so our first step is to simply talk with God. We must estab- lish a pattern of prayer in our life.
This is the beginning of a new year and a good time to set a new pattern in our lives. It takes about 21 days to establish a habit.
I set aside time for prayer early in the morning. I love the stillness of the from discipline to delight establishing a pattern of prayer morning, and this time works best for I begin my quiet time with God through praying in the Spirit. I have many respon- me. It is important for you to find the reading the Word of God. It has become sibilities, so I have found this type of time of the day that works best for you. such a delight for my life that each night praying to be essential. There are times I My grandpa, Rev. E. L. Newton, found as I go to bed, I anticipate this time of feel overwhelmed and do not know where that late at night, after everyone else was reunion with my God. During these early to even start praying, but the Holy Spirit in bed, worked best for him. morning sessions, God speaks to me in is always there to lead me and intercede powerful ways. through me according to the will of God: Whether it is morning, noon, or night, I also like to take a daily walk with God. Likewise the Spirit also helps in our put together a pattern of prayer in your As the hymn says, “He walks with me and weaknesses. For we do not know life. If you do not have a plan of action, He talks with me.” Each day presents new what we should pray for as we ought, you will not have a successful prayer life. but the Spirit Himself makes interces- circumstances and challenges, but “the However, if you do establish the disci- sion for us with groanings which can- Lord’s mercies . . . are new every morning” pline of a daily quiet time, you can move not be uttered. Now He who searches (Lam. 3:22-23). the hearts knows what the mind of from a discipline to a delight! Once your the Spirit is, because He makes inter- prayer time has become a delight, it can The next step of my pattern is interces- cession for the saints according to the then move to discipleship. sion, which for me includes worship and will of God (Rom. 8:26-27 NKJV).
14 EVANGEL • jan 2014 Here are some suggestions to help you in when I take time to get away from the Not only do I set aside regular time to get establishing a daily time with God. These busyness and sit quietly in His presence. alone with God, but I also like to have a are taken from experience and have been continual conversation with Him. This used in discipleship training. Elijah found this to be true as well. He did sometimes takes the form of an outward not hear the Lord speak in a mighty wind, talk, but many times it takes place in my Make Prayer a Priority a powerful earthquake, or a raging fire, head and spirit. That might sound strange Jesus spent much of His time in prayer. but in “a gentle whisper” (1 Kings 19:12 to some, but I have found this continual Luke 5:16 says Jesus “often withdrew into NIV). God speaks clearly but quietly, so we walking and talking with the Lord to be the wilderness and prayed” (NKJV). We must listen closely. True prayer involves very helpful. It follows Paul’s instruction need time to get alone with God to hear both talking and listening. to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17). His directions and receive His strength. Could it be that God wants to speak to Try it. Such prayer can be transformational. Battles are waged and victories won on you today? You might never know unless our knees in prayer. you get alone with Him in a quiet place. Learn to Wait If Jesus, who was the Son of God, needed Do you have a quiet place to get alone Have you been praying and waiting on an to get away to spend time in prayer to with God and pray? This is an essential answer from God? Sometimes the answer maintain a life of victory, then how much element in developing a deep relationship is not “yes” or “no” but, rather, “wait.” But more do you and I need to pray? with Christ. we don’t like to wait! We want instant gratification. We have microwaves, fast- Are you facing a battle today? Are you in The Word of God says those who know food restaurants, and instant messaging need of peace or direction for your life? If the Lord will know His voice (John 10:27). . . . and we expect the same “quick ser- so, pray about it. You have worried about The Bible is one of God’s ways of speak- vice” from God. However, God doesn’t it long enough. Pray today in expectation ing to us. Listen to what He says to you always move on our timetable. The of meeting with the God of heaven. through His Word, and listen to His gentle psalmist said, “Rest in the Lord, and wait whisper as He speaks to guide your life. Listen for God’s Voice patiently for him” (Ps. 37:7). Practice Persistence Over the years, I have learned God will Start Now rarely interrupt my busy life nor shout Jesus instructed us to “always pray and Establish a daily quiet time that works at me over the noisy activities of my not give up” (Luke 18:1 NIV). Persistence best for you. Pay the price of discipline, day. However, God does speak to me in prayer is another secret to our victory. and in time, praying will become the delight of your life. Once this time is a delight, you will grow as a disciple. God speaks to me through His Word and prayer each day as I seek Him. I daily dig out nuggets of truth and encouragement and listen to the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit. Out of this overflow He has allowed me to grow in discipleship. I now share these daily words of encour- agement to others through Facebook, Twit- ter, texting, and a daily radio program “An Important Appointment Apple for Today” (anapplefortoday.com). The chairman of the board unexpectedly came to see the company president. The Don’t wait another day. Set a new pat- president’s secretary said, “I’m terribly sorry, but he cannot be disturbed. He has an tern in this New Year to have a daily time important appointment.” alone with God. The chairman became very angry. He banged open the door and saw the young president of his corporation on his knees in prayer. The chairman softly closed the door LaVoy Newton is lead pastor of Lighthouse and asked the secretary, “Is this usual?” Church of God in St. Augustine, Florida, She said, “Yes, he does that every morning.” where he has served for 21 years. He is the The chairman responded, “No wonder I come to him for advice.”—Billy Graham founder and overseer of Beacon of Hope (Choice Contemporary Stories and Illustrations) Christian School, and the author of War in the Heavens.
EVANGEL • jan 2014 15 by AN victor morris EAGLE SCOUT’S N AUGUST 2013, I witnessed an unfor- gettable event—the Court of Honor for COURAGEOUS 16-year-old Jimmy Temple, who had IIachieved the rank of Eagle Scout. DECISION I have known Jimmy’s family for many years. His dad, Jay Temple, in addition to being an able Church of God minister, is a close friend of mine. So, I joyfully antici- pated Jimmy’s special day.
The Court of Honor was impressive. Jimmy’s father, grandfather, three of his uncles, and his scoutmaster all shared words of commendation, rehearsed the val- ues of scouting, and reviewed the journey of a scout. Finally, Jimmy stepped forward to receive recognition as an Eagle Scout.
It was inspiring to witness this young man declare his appreciation for scouting, his love for God, and his moral convic- tions. In announcing that he was now leaving the Boy Scouts, Jimmy boldly took a moral stand based on his personal principles and values.
Let him speak for himself. . . . Jimmy Temple Jimmy Temple’s Speech First off, I’d like to give honor where honor Scouting has been a great window for me Scouting has been a tremendous expe- is due. I couldn’t have done this without to experience the outdoors, and enjoy rience for me. But sadly, my scouting my God Almighty. He has strengthened God’s wonderful creation. I’ve learned how journey ends today. It has been a great me, given me the skills and understanding to be tough (if you will) outside, because disappointment to watch an organiza- to achieve merit badges and ranks; He has of merit badges like Wilderness Survival. tion that has long taught the importance given me wisdom and guidance on how to I’ve learned the importance of taking care of standing against peer pressure [to] conduct my Eagle project; and He’s been of oneself by Personal Management and crumble in the face of financial and social with me from the very beginning. James Personal Fitness. I’ve learned many, many pressure. While I am not at odds with any 1:17 tells us “every good and perfect gift other great skills from all the many merit person, I can no longer support an organi- is from above” (NIV). In other words, it’s badges, and have had a lot of fun. I have zation that has compromised on an issue from Jesus Christ. learned the Scout Law, and doing my of morality. best to keep all of the points. I remember I’m very thankful to have the honor of staying up late on campouts playing card Though there will be many who disagree receiving Eagle. I will greatly treasure it games. I have so many memories, fun with my decision, and some who will take and look back on the great memories that friendships, and great experiences. it personally, to my regret, I am trying to were made. I’d like to say thanks to some stand for what is right, for what my God of the scout leaders who have been a huge And Eagle—it’s one of the hardest things expects of me. I learned it from scout- help to me. . . . I’ve ever done. We came across so many ing. As the Boy Scout Handbook says, and obstacles throughout the entire process. I quote, “The BSA has always encouraged Scouting has been a great experience for And the prayer shelter was finally com- its members to be independent, to stand me. It’s been a great place for me to make pleted in March. I’ve learned essential on their own two feet, and to use good friendships, even from when I was in Cub leadership skills, learned how to deal with judgment rather than being swayed by Scouts. I have enjoyed many, many great paperwork, and how I need to be a bless- peer pressure. Trusting in yourself is an camporees and hiking events we’ve done. ing to everyone. important quality to have.”
16 EVANGEL • jan 2014 Again I quote, “Baden-Powell, the founder of scouting, had faith that scouts were smart enough to figure out what is healthy and right. Have faith in yourself and in your judgment.” HERE ARE EVENTS you look forward to attack and harm you, because I have many to sharing with your children: riding a people in this city” (Acts 18:9-10 NIV). I recognize that faith in myself and my Troller coaster for the first time, visiting Regardless of our reluctance, “evangelism” own judgment will get me nowhere. I am a beach, celebrating birthdays and holidays. continues. But it’s not always coming from us. thankful to serve a God who leads me Then there are other life moments you don’t Last summer, two major motion pictures were and guides me through His Word and His particularly rush to do: explaining the com- released that play the Book of Revelation for presence. He has walked with me through plicated way the world works, having the laughs—including Jesus’ return, the four horse- this journey to Eagle, and I am confident “facts of life” conversation, or walking them men, the Antichrist, and other familiar concepts. He will walk with me through the rest of through heartaches and disappointment. I am not naming the movies because I don’t life’s journey. Although the more challenging conver- want to give the producers the satisfaction sations are not always fun or of hearing my protest. Through Thank you for your prayers, care, and sup- even comfortable, they interviews and reviews, port. The Lord bless you! are necessary, it’s apparent the because if we movies are dis- Tearful Hope as parents tinctively vulgar are not the and completely This moving speech brought tears to my ones dis- irreverent. In eyes. Not only was there such conviction speak up! seminating one scene, a in Jimmy’s presentation, but there was the informa- returning Christ compassion also. tion and being by dewayne hamby is “accidentally” there for support, shot and killed while Further, Jimmy extemporaneously shared we know others are coming back to earth. thoughts straight from his heart—words waiting in the wings to do so. For most of the young of sadness at the current situation with In the same way, Christians have an people who flocked to those movies, the Boy Scouts. He said, “I do not leave obligation to not only share the Gospel but the first education they received about with regret, but I do leave with disap- to give an answer to the world for the ques- the end times or the Revelation came pointment.” And he added he could no tions they have about God, eternal life, and from those ridiculing the Christian faith. longer be part of an organization that had how to live. Isn’t that sad? A decade ago, the Left Behind “bowed to peer pressure” and “compro- Why are we sometimes reluctant? Have books, which didn’t line up with every Christian’s mised moral principles.” we abdicated our role? Perhaps there’s a theology, at least took the care to present the level of intimidation. Church leaders and events for the sake of Christian evangelism. This new Eagle Scout did a wonderful laity once enjoyed a certain respect from the It’s hard not to notice how many other job of asserting his moral frustration at public. Preachers were called on for public blockbuster films depict the end of the world in the position the BSA had taken in favor prayers without critics poring through years various manners. Their popularity is understand- of homosexuality, but he did it with a of their sermons. As that respect has waned able: people are searching for answers about life Christlike demeanor. What we saw and (and Jesus predicted it would—Matt. 24:9), after death. And the body of Christ has those heard that day was the product of both we have retreated from the public square. answers. It is a shame to keep them secret. the once-virtuous Boy Scouts and godly Some have withdrawn into a “quiet faith,” I once met an old man who was so intent on parents who have invested heavily in their avoiding confrontations from those who sharing Christ that he would grab the servers’ children. All present gave this young man disagree. hands in restaurants when he prayed for the a standing ovation. In Corinth, the apostle Paul encountered meal, also praying for a surprised and some- strong resistance to his preaching that Jesus times reluctant person in the process. It was As we witness the rapidly increased moral is the Son of God. Paul shook his clothes and jarring to me. But I realize this man took the decline in our country, I often wonder told them, “Your blood be upon your own Great Commission seriously and did not miss an heads” (Acts 18:6); and was probably left opportunity to share the hope he had. Lord, let about our future. However, I do not com- rattled by the encounter. such boldness fall on us. pletely despair. The righteous stand taken God then spoke to Paul in a dream: “Do by Jimmy Temple gives me hope. not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be DeWayne Hamby is editor of the White Wing silent. For I am with you, and no one is going Messenger. This article is reprinted by permission. Victor Morris is teaching pastor at Victory Hill Church of God in Crozet, Virginia.
EVANGEL • jan 2014 17 by sherry ivy reed my journey to pro-life ministry N A TYPICAL DAY, 3,400 (40DFL), which began on the sidewalks of ing. His niece or nephew was about to unborn babies are killed the abortion center she managed in Col- be aborted. He went inside to talk to his by abortion in the U.S., lege Station, Texas. Her book sparked a sister. About 10 minutes later, they both according to the Gutt- fire in me. I could no longer just say I was came out and stood at the door talking. macher Institute. Does pro-life; I had to do something. I contacted Then she walked toward the car with her thisO shock you? It stunned me. With that the local pro-life ministries and joined this hand in his. As they approached us, she in mind, I want to tell about my journey worthy cause. said with a smile, “I’ve changed my mind. into pro-life ministry. I’m going to keep my baby.” Soon I became part of the planning com- My trek began with a step in the wrong mittee for my city’s 40DFL campaign, Those of us praying on the sidewalk direction. Although I grew up in the which is held in the spring and fall each rejoiced in a life saved, knowing this Church of God, during my teen years I year. This campaign draws attention to young woman would not suffer the pain walked away from my Christian upbring- the evil of abortion through a three-point and regret of an abortion. ing. While in my early 20s, an unmarried program: (1) 40 days of prayer and fasting friend confided in me with tears stream- for an end to abortion, (2) peaceful prayer We also have learned of instances when ing down her face that she was pregnant. vigils on the sidewalks of abortion centers, women have changed their minds simply I strongly advised her to have an abortion. and (3) community outreach. because of a person standing or kneeling in prayer on the sidewalk. Being present I gave my friend this advice because I The mission of 40DFL, now international, makes an enormous difference. viewed the unborn baby as only a clump is to unite the body of Christ in prayer to of cells or tissue. Thankfully, my friend did abolish abortion. The results have been A Church Issue not take my advice. Somehow, she found astounding. According to their website, Since 1973, when abortion was legalized the courage to continue her pregnancy. since 2007, 41 abortion clinics have closed by the Supreme Court, some 50 million The first moment I held that precious where 40DFL has been held. More than babies have been aborted. When I learned newborn, I immediately knew how wrong 7,500 babies and their parents have been nearly two-thirds of women having an I had been to even suggest abortion. The spared from abortion, and 83 abortion- abortion profess the Christian faith, it Lord used this experience as the driving clinic workers have left the industry. made me realize the church must address force in my passion for pro-life ministry. There is tremendous power when God’s this issue. These women need to feel loved people join in focused prayer. From Quiet to Active and know forgiveness and healing can be Changing Minds found in Christ. I was quietly pro-life for years, even after returning to the faith. Then one day while During last spring’s 40DFL campaign, I There are many ways to participate in shopping in a thrift store, the Lord guided was praying outside a Planned Parent- pro-life ministry in a Christlike way. In me to Abby Johnson’s book unPLANNED, hood center on a busy abortion day in addition to participating in 40DFL (40days which tells her story of being the direc- Mobile, Alabama. A man who brought a forlife.com), my home church, Forest Hill tor of a Planned Parenthood abortion young woman to the clinic for an abor- Church of God (Mobile, Alabama), assists center. After eight years of working in tion was standing near me, and I was the local crisis-pregnancy center by giving the abortion industry, Abby witnessed an given the opportunity to speak to him. He monetary donations and baby items. ultrasound-guided abortion. She saw a told me the young woman was his sister. 13-week fetus struggle and lose his battle I felt the Holy Spirit prompt me to gently We are also involved in a nationwide for life. say, “You know that is your niece or your event called Life Chain. It features an nephew she is carrying.” annual public witness of individuals who Abby left her job and became an advocate peacefully and prayerfully line up along for life. She credits her conversion to This simple sentence seemed to awaken the highway in front of the church, some the peaceful prayer vigil 40 Days for Life him to the reality of what was happen- holding pro-life messages. We are also
18 EVANGEL • jan 2014 working to provide a confidential Bible study to help post-abortive women begin their journey to healing.
Our involvement in these ministries is a visual statement that the church sup- ports the sanctity of human life from the moment of conception. The psalmist David wrote, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb” (139:13 NIV). We believe abortion kills children created in the image of God.
Mobile’s Planned Parenthood center, where abortions take place, is located across the street from the Women’s Resource Center, which offers counseling and baby items to pregnant women.
Spiritual Battleground Abortion is a spiritual battleground. We read in Ephesians 6:12, “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against princi- palities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world.” Abortion is a weapon the Enemy has used to destroy the lives of millions of babies and to mar the lives of countless mothers and fathers who suffer the consequences of a deadly decision.
Abortion affects each of us. Women and men are suffering in silence in our church- es. Many children are learning of siblings they will never meet because of abortion, and our society has lost the contributions of 50 million people. We can no longer ignore this evil. The church must be an open door preventing abortion and provid- ing healing.
You can make a difference by simply spending one hour a week in prayer on the sidewalk near an abortion center, or vol- unteering at your local pregnancy center. You could be the vessel God uses to save His next great evangelist, artist, educator, or scientist.
Sherry Ivy Reed volunteers as the pro-life director at Forest Hill Church of God in Mobile, Alabama. [email protected]
EVANGEL • jan 2014 19 by charlotte gambill quit pretending! God is not looking for once-a-week performers but daily practitioners. T WAS A SATURDAY afternoon, and We are called to something that is much adventure for us to consider embarking a group of neighborhood children had more serious. God has called us each to upon. God has enrolled us all in His com- congregated in our kitchen. They play our part in a real adventure. The fight mission; therefore, we are to stop pre- talked excitedly of the adventures we are called to engage in is very real—and tending and get serious about the respon- they were going to embark on that our enemy is not playing games. sibility God asks us to carry. afternoon.I The pirate ship they had cre- ated in our yard was about to come under In 1 Peter 5:8, we are instructed to “be Our society today is in danger of having attack after this short interval for juice and self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the many dreamers who are not real doers. cookies. Their imaginations created a world devil prowls around like a roaring lion All you have to do is flick through your of possibilities that made this ordinary Sat- looking for someone to devour” (NIV). TV channels to see countless programs urday afternoon an extraordinary day. The Enemy is not messing around, nor where people have been told: “You can be is he merely threatening to bring harm. the next greatest star if you just believe.” As they set out into the yard, the con- He is seeking people to devour and You can watch thousands standing in line, versation rapidly changed to which role destroy. He is seeking those who are living waiting to be auditioned in the latest pop- everyone was going to play. Some were unaware of his schemes, whose imaginary music singing competition, hoping to find deemed worthy of the role of pirate, play has left them vulnerable in this very a shortcut to fame. While many in the line while the girls became mermaids and real battle. are hardworking musicians who deserve princesses. When all the roles were filled, to be heard, they are always outnumbered REALITY CHECK each character headed out to the “high by thousands of people with no musical seas.” After several hours of playing, God is not asking people to merely think background or practical experience in tired from the sword fights and treasure about turning our world around; He is playing an instrument. These hopefuls hunts, the small group of friends went relying on us to do it. It’s not just a nice their separate ways, heading home for thought for us to talk about or a potential dinner and bed. Just like that, the game was over. There had been no fatalities, no permanent damage—just a lot of swash- buckling fun.
As I watched this scenario play out, the Spirit of God reminded me that the adven- ture we are called to as His children is not an imaginary one. It is not a call to pretend for a few hours each weekend at church or to pretend with each other in our rela- tionships. Just because we are consider- ing changing our towns, cities, and neighborhoods and have a desire to see people saved, transformed, and restored does not mean this will happen, though this is the start. Unless we marry our desires with a partner called action, then we are only playing pretend when it comes to turning around our communities.
20 EVANGEL • jan 2014 are standing in line thinking they might whom others pass by. We need to posi- show up even when no one else will. It’s stumble into an escape route to the celeb- tion our lives and ministries so that real the study no one sees and the sacrifice rity life. They believe that just by showing challenges of this world shape the priori- no one applauds. It’s David’s diligence up at the auditions, they will somehow ties of God’s people. We must be ready to on a hillside to protect a few sheep when end up a potential star. respond to the call of the broken, lost, and no one else is looking. It’s the diligence vulnerable. Our stage is our streets; our shown by Joseph in prison to be a faithful These imaginary contenders, much like greatest gift is our acts of service. steward when no one expects it. the children in my backyard, are look- ing to play a role in a world they have Wherever God’s people gather, we need Our community does not need God’s dreamed up. Big dreams come crashing to commit not merely to enjoying one people to charge in like knights in shining down for these aspiring artists, when another’s company, but to allowing our armor. They don’t need promises that are after standing for a few hours in the cold, commission to shape our conversations never going to be kept or commitments waiting for their big moment, they are and making the needs of others affect our that are never seen through to comple- stunned when one of the judges faces choices. We need to talk about real prob- tion. God’s turnarounds require those them with the reality of their lack of tal- lems and determine to play a real part in who understand what it is to persevere ent. Deflated and often emotionally vola- being an answer. When we see the full and to be diligent. tile, they are forced to face facts and leave scale of what we are called to do, when we In our city, we have been involved help- the room in which their dreams collided see the real reason we are called to turn ing the street girls for over ten years. The with reality. things around, then we will stop standing in line dreaming and instead start taking reason that their lives are being turned As believers, we need this experience our turn and doing. around is not because we impressed them where dreams face reality. As God’s chil- with our gospel presentation or that we dren, we are not called to stand in line, Let’s consider those who have biblical quoted our best messages to them. The hoping for our own moment of great- legendary status: Joseph the prime minis- reason they want God to turn their lives ness, or wait to become some spiritual ter, David the giant killer, Daniel the lion around is because we have diligently superstar. There is no shortcut to God’s tamer, Elijah the fire starter, Peter the rock, turned up. turnaround. God does not give imaginary Solomon the wise, and many more. None Diligence is a language the Enemy hates. callings, nor does He play pretend. We of these men was a performer. They were He can’t throw diligent people off their need to enter God’s reality room, not to never found wasting time in a line dream- cause with a few problems because they be judged but to allow His Spirit to nudge ing of being great. Instead, these men went have developed a perseverance that will us from our dream-state into a realiza- to obscure places to be faithful, to serve keep them turning up. Paul knew Timo- tion of what serving the turnaround God diligently, and to commit to being a disciple thy had a call on his life to turn people to requires from each of us. We are not of the difference they sought to see. Christ, and he wanted Timothy’s commit- called to pretend-play the change; we are BE DILIGENT ment to reach maturity so his diligence commissioned to be the change. Our lives would forge in him a deep determination are not about the end performance but The apostle Paul said, “Be diligent in to see the job for which he was sent com- about the discipline of daily practice. God these matters; give yourself wholly to pleted. is looking for those who will faithfully them, so that everyone may see your commit to develop their spiritual gifts and progress. Watch your life and doctrine God is looking to you and me to grow up grow in faith. He is looking for those who closely. Persevere in them, because if you and to progress from the flight simula- will not waste time standing in a line but do, you will save both yourself and your tor of Christianity into the real work that instead will invest a lifetime into helping hearers” (1 Tim. 4:15-16 NIV). Paul was we are called to do. God’s turnarounds needy lives. asking Timothy to give himself whole- require His people not just to show up, heartedly and regularly, not in a one-off but to grow up and to mature. There are God is not looking for once-a-week per- grand statement of commitment, but many risks out there that we will need to formers but daily practitioners. He wants with a consistent commitment to pre- embrace, but God is waiting for you and people who are taking what they have serve his growth ethic. me to get to the height they require. learned and passing on their wisdom, taking what they have grown and helping Often the difference between those who Charlotte Gambill and her husband, Steve, others to grow. We are not given gifts and make a difference and those who imagine lead Life Church in England. Article excerpted talents so we can entertain or impress they are called to make a difference is the from Turnaround God. Used by permission one another but so we can help the people word diligence. It’s the commitment to of Thomas Nelson Publishers.
EVANGEL • jan 2014 21 by scott rasco choose to worship HE SANCTUARY LIGHTS are when everyone else is feeling it too. How- the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his dim, and the music is loud. ever, when those around us are checking worshipers must worship in the Spirit and Everyone is standing with their their watches and whispering back and in truth” (vv. 23-24 NIV). hands stretched high, eyes forth, it is difficult for us to worship God. T It no longer mattered if a person wor- closed, in an act of surrender to God. Some people are weeping, others clapping, As a worship leader, this is the hardest shiped here or there; what mattered is how some laughing, and others swaying with part of my ministry—getting people to one worshiped. move beyond their emotions into true the music. One thing is for sure—if you’re The Scriptures give us many reasons to worship. It is easy to worship when the not feeling it, you need to have a spiritual worship God, but our primary motive situation is right and everyone around us tune-up. should be Jesus’ sacrifice for us. For some is enthusiastically praising God, but that people, the joy of salvation motivates Aren’t those the preacher’s words when should not be the reason we praise Him. them to worship exuberantly—they might he enters the pulpit after a wonderful shout and dance. For others it is solemn time of worship in song? I think we all In John 4, Jesus has an important reverence, and they kneel at the altar. know what he means, and I know we all encounter with a woman whom He meets love those services. Why, then, are those at a well in Samaria. Being a Samaritan, Over time, that initial reaction begins to times rare even in Pentecostal circles? this woman had been taught to worship fade away. We can sing the words while Why are people always trying to find the God on nearby Mount Gerizim, where making a shopping list or trying to decide right church that checks off every one of her ancestors had built a temple three where to go for lunch. Attending Sunday their preferences, allowing them to “truly centuries earlier. She asks Jesus why the worship can easily become nothing more worship”? Jews worship at the Temple in Jerusalem than a routine. instead of at Mount Gerizim. I had the chance to attend a megachurch More than once, I have heard a longtime in Texas. The lighting, music, audio, and Jesus tells her, “A time is coming and has churchgoer tell a new Christian, “Oh, media all helped create an exciting atmo- now come when the true worshipers will you’re excited now, but soon it will fizzle sphere. Music played before the service worship the Father in the Spirit and in out and you’ll be like the rest of us.” Sadly, began, helping the congregants to prepare truth, for they are the kind of worshipers it is often true. After a few months, too their hearts to focus fully many new believers take their salvation on God. They sang songs for granted like other that worshipers could relate Christians easily do. to and help them move into a deep level of worship. We try to rationalize our indifference by saying, “I I have also been in small church- am a mature Christian, and I es with no special lighting, poor do not need that type of wor- sound quality, and maybe a piano and a ship to be close to God,” but our couple of singers, where the Spirit of God justification just covers up our wan- moved powerfully. So, what constitutes ing desire. We get into a rut, and we find true worship? ourselves going through the motions.
In Pentecostal churches, we love to feel How, then, do we break through? We the excitement of worship—the person might go from one church to the next beside us is jumping up and down, oth- looking for a place that will boost our ers are clapping, and the whole room is passion. We find evangelists and revival- filled with electricity. It drives the worship ists who can pep us up. We look for the inside our hearts, and makes us want to “next big thing” to help us encounter God. move. It is easy for us to get revved up However, when the services are over, that
22 EVANGEL • jan 2014 same old feeling creeps back in, causing us (b) the church with a choir, bright light- Our worship is an act of expression to to begin looking for the next high. ing, and a loud preacher; (c) the church God of our appreciation, love, and rever- with flashing lights, a praise band, and a ence to Him. Our choice to worship— There is no special formula or secret seeker-friendly preacher; (d) many other whether we run the aisles, kneel, or lift ingredient. The only way to break through combinations. No church will check off our hands—will move the heart of God. is by choosing to worship. every box on a person’s preference list. If we want God’s Spirit to move in our When everyone looks to the style of The solution is choosing to worship. No worship services, it is time that we stop music, the setting, or the type of preacher, matter the musical style, choose to wor- trying to make Him move, and just let our- no one will be completely satisfied. To ship. No matter the lighting, choose to selves worship Him. meet everyone’s preferences, we would worship. No matter the preacher, choose have to organize churches by labeling to worship. When we think about who Scott Rasco serves the South Side Church them: (a) the church with acoustic wor- God is and all He has done for us, we of God in Abilene, Texas, as music pastor. ship, dim lighting, and a mellow preacher; should be prompted to worship Him. [email protected]
On disembarking, they catch sight of the burning coals. While they had been toiling with their fishing nets, Jesus had been gathering sticks to build a fire for their warmth, comfort, and nourishment. Jesus tells them to bring Him some fish they had caught so they can eat. Portrait 4: See a shipwrecked, shivering company on the seashore of Malta (Acts 28:3). They stand cold and cowed in the rain; but one man searches out and gathers sticks, and then kindles a fire. It is the apostle Paul—the great preacher, writer, church planter, and theologian.
gathering sticks Kindling Fires by daniel sylverston We want the fire of love burning in our homes. We want to see the fires of compassion and indignation kindled Portrait 1: Elijah is sent by God to a widow who has been instructed that would burn away the cruelty, selfishness, and bitterness mani- to care for him. The prophet finds her gathering sticks! (1 Kings 17). fested in society. It did not look promising. It certainly did not look nourishing. Per- We want to see the fire of faith kindled in all the Church of God, so haps Elijah wondered whether he had made a mistake, or perhaps that frozen hearts will thaw and the glow of warm, new life will shine in missed God. our worship of the King and service in His kingdom. The poor woman, down to her final bit of food, had been told by This can happen only if everyone gathers sticks. After all, it is futile God to receive the prophet. Instead of responding, “I can’t,” she pre- for fire to fall from heaven if there is nothing to help kindle the fire pared as best she could—she went out and gathered more sticks. That when it comes! was faith and obedience of a high standard. We should never despise any humble task, for we do not know Great things can be accomplished on an open fire, and much how significant it might become. comfort comes from it; but before any fire is kindled, someone must We must bring our prayers—even if they seem frail and dry, slight gather sticks. While gathering sticks is laborious and dull, the fire and wooden, disjointed and brittle—for they will stoke the fire. totally depends on it. We must come to God with faith and without prejudice, letting Portrait 2: Elijah is sleeping under a broom tree. He is tired and on Him kindle the fire of spiritual renewal, causing fulfillment of the Great the run from Queen Jezebel (1 Kings 19). An angel awakens him and Commission through His Spirit. tells him to eat “a cake baked on coals” (vv. 5-6 NKJV). While Elijah Instead of polishing scepters, we must gather sticks. We must not was sleeping, the angel had gathered sticks to kindle a fire. let the fire burn out! Portrait 3: We observe the disciples—after the Crucifixion, on the Sea of Galilee—dispirited, tired, and hungry, rowing toward shore with no Daniel Sylverston and his wife, Millie, are national directors of chap- fish (John 21). Then a man on the beach tells them to cast out their net laincy, education, and credentialing for the Church of God in Drogheda, once more, and they make a huge catch. The man on the shore is Jesus. Ireland. [email protected]
EVANGEL • jan 2014 23 evangel interview The vital initiaTive General Overseer Mark Williams speaks of God in the United States and Canada, church. It helps me connect with church with Michael Nations about The VITAL 5,260 have less than 100 in Sunday morn- members, not to mention the people I Initiative for congregations with less than ing worship. Eight out of every 10 pas- meet on my job. 100 members. Pastor Nations has been shep- tors lead a church that has less than 100 herding the Church of God in Clyde, North people on Sunday morning. What is the unintended message that Carolina, for nearly 20 years. sometimes comes across to a pastor You have the conviction that a small of a congregation running under 100 Describe Clyde, North Carolina. church is not a failed large church. people, maybe with a pastor that is Clyde is a mountain community of That is one of the bases for The bivocational? 1,500 people located 20 miles west of VITAL Initiative. Small churches are on I have battled in myself the idea of Asheville. It’s a great place, and our church the cutting edge and on the margin, and being less than what I should be since I was started in 1918. We have 78 mem- anything on the cutting edge is naturally don’t pastor a larger church. Most pas- bers, and we minister to the community. small. So we believe there is a great har- tors of smaller churches deal with that. Last Sunday, we had 65 people present. vest that small churches can reap in the We hear that if we were doing this, this, 21st century. and this, then naturally the church would In recent years, the Lord has bur- have 400 or 500 members. It just hasn’t dened your heart for pastors of You’re a bivocational pastor, and you happened for many folks, but that’s not smaller churches. I even hate to use believe that’s not necessarily a liabili- a negative thing, because I believe God is the word small because we’re talking ty or a handicap, but actually an open still God even in a small church, and He about the majority of churches in all door for ministry. can bring increase even there. denominations. Being bivocational, I’ve been able to That’s true. According to my research, connect with people. I understand what You’ve discovered some things that of the 6,575 congregations in the Church it is to be tired and not want to go to large churches have a hard time
General Overseer Mark Williams (left) interviews Pastor Michael Nations.
24 EVANGEL • jan 2014 doing, but the smaller church can do not doing enough because you had 63 in Third, we are going to connect you very effectively. church on Sunday,” is a bit off-putting. That with your general overseer, your state There is solid research about the leads to their feelings of being a failure, of administrative bishop, and pastors of power and the impact of small churches. being flawed. I think there should be a new larger churches. Small churches can be intimate gatherings ethos, a new paradigm of ministry where Fourth, we want to focus on and where people connect with other people we value the small things. emphasize a renewed dependence on the who are authentic in their worship. It’s Jesus talked about a lot of small stuff. creative power of the Holy Spirit. In our hard to hide in a small church. Giftedness He talked about the mustard seed and small churches, we do not need more pro- that comes from the Lord can be utilized about leaven. He talked about things that grams or more packaged ideas. We need in a small church. were very small yet very powerful. I think dynamic interaction with the Holy Spirit that is where the conversation needs to in our community to understand what Hence The VITAL Initiative, with go. How can I be small and impactful? God wants to do. VITAL being an acronym. What does it stand for? To Value, Integrate, Train, Appreciate, and Launch pastors of smaller churches “We small-church across the country. Our goal is to create a pastors are not network of pastors united to reap the har- vest in the 21st century. there by accident; we’re there for a You’ve already started a pilot of this initiative in western North Carolina, purpose. I believe and you’ve talked with pastors in great things will other states. What are you hearing? It’s amazing. When I spoke at the happen in small prayer conference in Mississippi, it seems communities and in like the pastors came in feeling like, Well, I’m going to hear four or five things I’m doing small churches.” wrong and how this hasn’t happened for me. —michael nations When I started talking with them about God working in a small church, it seems they lifted their heads and realized, He’s talking to me. There was an immediate How is The VITAL Initiative striving We small-church pastors are not there connection. It was the same in Pennsyl- to create a new ethos? by accident; we’re there for a purpose. I vania and North Carolina. It’s been very We show appreciation. We simply say, believe great things will happen in small refreshing. “We recognize these small steps you’re communities and in small churches. I taking now are impacting people, and that really believe that. How do church leaders, even in the can multiply.” We have to catch the idea position that I serve, unintentionally that small is not bad, it’s just different. I am the product of a small-town contribute to the feelings of isola- church that grew under my dad’s tion, dislocation, and lack of affirma- You have the opportunity to speak to ministry. Being in a small town, you tion that pastors of small churches a shepherd who is pastoring in a com- have the opportunity to not only pas- sometimes have? munity like Clyde, or even in a large tor the people in your church but also We have a penchant to count everything city at a church that has less than 100 their families beyond your church, and and to quantify what we do. I understand people. What do you say? eventually the community. I believe that, but there is some ministry you can- I would say there are four things The The VITAL Initiative is going to help not count. Pastors serving in small places VITAL Initiative focuses on. First, we will us continue to support shepherds minister to families that will never attend value, integrate, train, appreciate, and throughout the United States and Can- their church. They’re performing weddings launch pastors. ada, and even around the world. and baby dedications that aren’t “counted.” Second, we are promoting a new They are making an impact in these com- ethos. We’re going to talk about the power A fully resourced website—thevitalinitiative munities. So the idea of saying, “Well, you’re of small things. .com—is being launched in January 2014.
EVANGEL • jan 2014 25 VIEWPOINTS
What expectations do you believe the Lord has for you in the New Year? know and follow my unique purpose purpose intentionally. When we begin to function in the unique AARON BREWER IS THE MEDIA AND DISCIPLESHIP PASTOR OF way God created us to be, we begin to see our purpose through WINCHESTER CHURCH OF GOD IN WINCHESTER, VIRGINIA. our God-given passions and desires. From those passions, we I’VE OFTEN BEEN GUILTY of creating resolutions that aren’t begin to dream dreams that can be accomplished only through really mine to resolve. Sometimes I chase after dreams that I’ve divine intervention; and we begin to attack these dreams as the seen other successful people accomplish, and I create a second- very purpose that God created us to live. rate version of what has already been conquered by someone In summary, resolve to chase your destiny: Discover your who is wired to master it. uniqueness, embrace your discovery, and attack your purpose. I believe God has blueprinted a specific purpose for my life You are the only person who can accomplish the God-given, God- that He has wired only me to accomplish. How do I ensure that sized dreams that your passions demand. And you were uniquely I’m chasing my God-created purpose? designed to live in this specific time to accomplish your particular I need to discover my uniqueness, purpose. In the words of Mordecai to Queen Esther, “It may very embrace my discovery, and attack my well be that you have achieved royal status for such a time as purpose. this!” (Esther 4:14 NET). Discover my uniqueness. God created only one me. There has never been be faithful and advance god’s kingdom another me in the history of the world, SAMUEL EVERS IS PASTOR OF THE PATHWAY INTERNATIONAL and there will never again be another CHURCH OF GOD IN PARIS, TEXAS. me in the future. I was born into a BEFORE THE START of each year, through a time of prayer I unique situation to two unique parents ask myself, What does God want me to do this year? For 2014, two during a unique period of time. God things are in my heart: Be faithful, and advance God’s kingdom. designed me to have unique features, complemented with a one- As a pastor, God has asked me to be faithful in my local of-a-kind personality. I have a specific blend of hobbies and inter- church. Many times, I have looked at the many powerful preach- ests that are integrated with my particular talents and abilities. ers and gifted pastors and felt so inad- When I begin to understand who I am and how God made me, I equate. I have been guilty of trying to can begin the journey of my purpose. be someone else, but as David found Embrace my discovery. So many people discover their unique- out, Saul’s armor never fits right. ness only to chase after someone else’s dreams and ambitions, Being faithful to my church in because they aren’t confident in the person they’ve discovered. 2014 means delivering a fresh word What does this say to the God who designed us? to my congregation, praying for their When we choose to embrace who we are, we can capitalize needs, discipling converts, and helping on our strengths and pursue dreams that God has wired us to the hurting. I must be faithful in the accomplish. A God who has a specific plan for our lives designed good times and in the bad seasons. us with intense precision and targeted accuracy. We can be at God never asked me to pastor a church our best only when we are functioning within our God-created that is bigger than everyone else’s; He simply asked me to faith- uniqueness. fully serve the church He has blessed me to pastor. Ministry can Attack my purpose. No one has ever changed the world by be messy at times. There will be successes and heartaches, but I accident; it has been changed only by those who pursue their must remain faithful.
26 EVANGEL •• jan 20142014 My call to faithfulness goes far beyond the pulpit. God has As Christians, God is expecting us to be more Kingdom- also called me to be faithful at home. I have a wonderful wife and minded than ever before. The Lord has commissioned us and a precious little girl. I must be a faithful steward to the family expects us to advance the Kingdom through radical and sacrifi- God has given me. cial discipleship. This will require us to be less focused on what In a recent sermon, I heard Bishop Tim Hill say, “You will pleases us and more about what pleases Him. be remembered for what makes you quit.” That statement has This sacrificial discipleship will stayed in my heart. When I get to heaven, I want to hear the require (1) investing a greater amount Father say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” of time to cultivate a deeper relation- Also, I believe 2014 will be a year of advancement for the ship with God and (2) giving of our body of Christ. Our congregation’s mission is “to be a church time and resources to connect with overflowing with God’s love.” We strive to do that through out- our community and culture to a deeper reaches, local missions, support of world missions. understanding of the living God. The In 2013, we set a missions goal of $10,000. It seemed like a Lord tells us, “Make disciples . . . teach- huge goal, but with God, all things are possible. The great people ing them to observe all that I com- of Pathway International got behind that vision, and by Septem- manded you” (Matt. 28:19-20 NASB). ber we had surpassed our goal. God is calling His church to greater In 2014, we are setting higher goals, and believing God to maturity, which can only be found in biblical instruction and is help us. We are striving to advance God’s kingdom. We will do the core of the spiritual formation process. that in our regularly scheduled services. Our kids ministry and We need to ask ourselves, How does God this year want us youth are striving to reach more students. We will advance to reproduce disciples? There are three levels in this process that the Kingdom on our outreach nights, where we visit different should be considered this year: neighborhoods and present small gifts from our church. God’s 1. Discipleship—aiding new converts in a growing relationship kingdom will be advanced in our local missions giving. We will with Christ. This is helping individuals begin their journey support world missions as we fulfill our calling. with God. While thinking about 2014, my mind wondered back 25 2. Mentoring—developing emerging leaders for the Kingdom. years, when I sat in a children’s church. Sitting in that little God is expecting us to identify and develop prospective room with a simple flannelgraph in front of our small class, I leaders. learned that Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through 3. Coaching—helping developed leaders to go to the next Christ who strengthens me” (NKJV). I believe it now, more stages in their leadership and relationship with God and than ever. others. Andy Stanley, in his book Next Generation Leader, suggests that coaching requires observation, instruction, go further than before and inspiration. Coaching elevates the disciple to a greater JORDAN WILSON, M.A., IS LEAD PASTOR OF THE TRUE LIFE CHURCH level of influence. OF GOD IN BEAVER FALLS, PENNSYLVANIA. God doesn’t expect for us to make a resolution this year, but to WE SOMETIMES WONDER, Is God really concerned about our start a revolution of spiritual sons and daughters being born into future? When will our dream or vision become a reality? The better His kingdom. These disciples must then be developed to ensure question is, How do we fit into what God’s future and thoughts there will be future coaches and leaders in church who will go fur- are for us? ther than ever before with our help.
EVANGEL •• jan 20142014 27 PEOPLE AND EVENTS
TRAGEDY TRANSFORMED TO MINISTRY WURTLAND, Ky.—Paula which is based on “Celebrate of Kentucky for prescription drug Rymer’s life was shattered and her Recovery” (the rehabilitation abuse, meth labs, alcohol addic- dreams destroyed by a tragedy. ministry started by Saddleback tion, and poverty. We constantly One day she came home to find her Church). She meets with her encounter individuals who have a beautiful daughter—a straight-A clients on our church campus, background of abuse and neglect, college student who seemingly had and the power of God is breaking and have suffered through years of no problems—hanging in the bed- drug and alcohol addictions. Many addiction and low self-esteem. room with a rope around her neck. other works of evangelism and The lives of many of the Paula freed her beautiful discipleship are also occurring. individuals sent to us are seem- daughter and held her in her The WRC offers a biblically ingly hopeless. They are headed Henry Montgomery arms until the coroner arrived based intervention program for for a life in prison or a premature and pronounced her dead. With the healing of hurts and heart- death, but the Lord is enabling us Our vision for the future is to her daughter in her arms, I can’t aches people have suffered in life. to change that. He is using Paula have a World Recovery Center imagine the pain, the hurt, and It is based on the words of Jesus to touch lives through her abili- campus where people can come the emptiness she and her family recorded in Matthew 5:3-12, com- ties and by sharing her personal for physical, emotional, and spiri- experienced. monly known as the Beatitudes. experience. God has given her the tual recovery. We want to see God The Lord directed Paula to our Each client is given a study Bible motivation to make something raise up missionaries, pastors, church—the Wurtland Church of and a 12-step program workbook. good come out of her personal teachers, and worship leaders and God—and He has sustained her This program is influencing struggles. place them in good jobs where and her family. He has taken this the communities surrounding William “Billy” Rucker is an they can be happy and lead pro- dark time and turned on a light of the Wurtland Church of God example of how this program is ductive lives. hope in her life, filling her with His by interacting with the court working. He was on every kind Spirit. Paula went back to school systems, detention centers, and of drug imaginable. He was in jail Following God’s Will and received a degree from the mental-health systems. The court and then released on probation. We believe ministries to hurt- University of Kentucky in social systems of Lewis, Greenup, and Through the ministry of the World ing people place our congregation work and guidance counseling, Carter counties are working with Recovery Center, God healed him in the perfect will of God. Although focusing on suicide prevention. us by sending troubled families to instantly from all drugs and alco- we have a population of only 1,400 the WRC. hol. When he first came to church, with surrounding towns and com- The World Recovery Center Our area has a great need for he had to wear an ankle device munities, we are reaching many At our church, Paula started a program of this nature because from the jail system, but now he is people. We feel constrained to the World Recovery Center (WRC), it is one of the worst in the state no longer required to wear it. develop ministries for the lost and Others who are not involved lonely people around us. in a life of crime need this ministry Recently, the Wurtland Church as well. Many of our pastors are of God led the fight to “Keep hurting because they have children Greenup County Dry.” Area whose lives have been destroyed churches of all denominations with addictions. We know this is came together and successfully not their intended destiny; God campaigned to keep liquor sales has a purpose and a calling for out of the county. We cannot sit them, and we want to help them idly by doing nothing; we must use find it. the tools God has given us for His Our community is responding glory.—Henry Montgomery with support for our efforts. A local businessman has opened his heart Henry Montgomery serves as and is giving jobs to those who pastor of the Wurtland, Kentucky, attend the program and are seek- Church of God. He is the author of ing work. Also, volunteers have The Red-Headed Boy From Tank Billy Rucker (left) and others who have been helped come forward to help individuals Pond Hollow: My Journey Into through Wurtland’s World Recovery Center obtain their GED. Ministry (derekpress.com).
28 EVANGEL • jan 2014 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 ADAMS, Jack Howard; n KILPATRICK, Darrell B.; 73; 84; ordained bishop; Georgia; ordained bishop; Texas; Beunie Reba Adams (wife) Kilpatrick (wife) n ADKINS, Homer Estil; 89; n KING, Alton Clarence; 65; ordained bishop; Kentucky; ordained bishop; Maryland; Evelene Adkins (wife) Debbie King (wife) n BRICKLE, Winnie B.; 82; n LANE, Paul Hilton; 68; ex- ordained minister; South horter; Florida; Linda Lane (wife) Evangelist Ray Branham recently presented a plaque to Pastor and Mrs. Carolina; Carol Ertzberger Mitchell Wilson in honor of the 90th anniversary of the Bancroft Church n MILES, Vera K.; 90; ordained (daughter) of God in McDonald, Tennessee. W. F. Bryant was the first pastor of the minister; South Carolina; Carol congregation, which was set in order in 1923. n BRYANT, Ronald Allen; 64; Hamby (daughter) ordained bishop; Pennsylvania; n RIVERA, Jesse; 51; exhorter; Linda Bryant (wife) Florida; Norma Rivera (wife) COOK CELEBRATION MARKS n CORTES, Juan E.; 68; n SARGENT, Asa Amos; 94; 100 YEARS IN INDIA ordained bishop; Florida; ordained bishop; Florida; Lulu Mery Cortes (wife) CHENNAGUR, Kerala, INDIA— Missionary Cook left Los Sargent Jackson (daughter) In late October, hundreds gathered Angeles with his wife, Ann, and n EASTON, David Scott; 50; n SKELTON, Frank Hayse; to celebrate the 100th year of the daughters Blossom and Dorothy, ordained bishop; Louisiana; Jo 67; exhorter; Alabama; Brenda arrival of Church of God Missionary arriving in the city of Bangalore in Karen Easton (wife) Skelton (wife) Robert F. Cook in India. The Cook October 1913. He suffered both n GIBSON, Joseph David; 64; n STUMP, J. D.; 78; ordained Centennial Committee challenged physical and spiritual hardships for ordained bishop; Virginia; bishop; Tennessee; Brenda the full-gospel believers in India to the sake of the gospel during his Debbie Gibson (wife) Stump (wife) finish the work that Cook began 37 years of ministry, moving from by taking the message of salvation village to village proclaiming the n ISBILL, Walter H.; 64; n STURCH, Clois Eugene; 82; and freedom to the unreached good news of Jesus Christ. The ordained bishop; Tennessee; ordained bishop; Arkansas; people groups spread throughout Church of God in India has now Barbara Isbill (wife) Sandy Rodgers (daughter) India. Among the guests were spread to over 20 states, and con- n JOHNSON, Robert P.; 72; n WOOD, Thomas William; Church of God General Overseer tinues to grow. ordained bishop; Florida; 82; exhorter; Alabama; Mildred Mark L. Williams and General As part of the centennial, sev- Marian Johnson (wife) Marie Wood (wife) Director of World Missions Tim Hill. eral mission-oriented conferences and conventions were held in the U.S. throughout 2013. In addition, the office building of the Church of God in Kerala— built by Cook—is being converted to the “RFC Pentecostal Heritage Center” to preserve the history and legacy of the Church of God in India. Also, Cook’s autobiography is being translated into Malayalam —a major language spoken by 40 Celebrating the Past, Present, and Future of Children’s Ministry million people in India. Knoxville, Tennessee • March 6-8 The anniversary was sched- Special Guests: Craig Jutila & Jim Wideman Robert F. Cook uled to conclude in December with Register at COGYOUTH.ORG or call 423-478-7229. a social-work project in Kerala.
EVANGEL • jan 2014 29 WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
by david g. roebuck r. hollis gause living in grace T THE ANNUAL Azusa Lecture co-authored The Emmaus Road. Such col- work of God rather than his own accom- in Cleveland, Tennessee, the laboration has marked Dr. Gause’s life plishments. Dixon Pentecostal Research and ministry as colleagues quickly affirm. In expressing appreciation for the ACenter recently presented Beulah went to be with the Lord in 2002, Azusa award, Gause focused on the theme the 2013 Spirit of Azusa Award to Dr. and Valdane in 2006. of God’s grace, which has been a central R. Hollis Gause Jr. The center presents As director of the Pentecostal Research feature of his ministry. As he has done the award each year to a person whose Center, I had the privilege of presenting in many sermons, on numerous printed life exemplifies the ministry of the 1906 the Spirit of Azusa Award to Dr. Gause. pages, and in countless classrooms, Gause revival at the Apostolic Faith Mission on Azusa Street in Los Angeles. In accepting the award, the renowned educator and author acknowledged the grace of God in his life with reference to Romans 5:20. Dr. Gause has received many awards, tributes, and honors during his minis- try. Born to Rufus Hollis Gause Sr. and Blanche King Gause in 1925, his family transferred from the Pentecostal Holiness Church to the Church of God in 1942. He received his first ministerial credentials in 1943 and was ordained (bishop) in 1954. Since 1947, Gause has served on the faculties of Lee College and the Pente- costal Theological Seminary, along with serving as pastor in Warren, Michigan. He significantly influenced the development of both schools through leadership in vital administrative offices, including dean of Lee College and the inaugural dean and director of the seminary, where he con- tinues to serve as professor of theological and New Testament studies. Through the years, Dr. Gause has In my comments, I paralleled the pasto- proclaimed: “The center of the gospel of authored numerous books and articles ral and theological leadership of William Jesus Christ is a statement of the apostle for the church, including Living in the J. Seymour with the influence of Hollis Paul, ‘Where sin abounded, grace did Spirit: The Way of Salvation. His service as Gause in shaping the doctrine and disci- much more abound.’ . . . No place can be parliamentarian aided the work of many pline of the Church of God. I reminded shown where sin abounded more than Church of God General Assemblies. the audience of a few of his principal char- at Calvary. And no place can it be shown Gause’s wife, Beulah, was an active acteristics, including the daily discipline where grace abounded much more over partner in ministry. Along with the to study and write, preaching that reflects that but at Mount Calvary. In that grace, many roles the spouse of a teacher/ the presence of the Lord, authoritative I am an example of it.” administrator/writer/pastor typically teaching, collegial relationships, and fulfills, she joined in the writing of adult sometimes surprising humor. Finally, I David G. Roebuck, Ph.D., is the Church of Sunday school literature for 20 years cited “the quiet grace and humility with God historian and director of the Dixon Pen- and co-authored Women in the Body of which he lives among us” so that, like Sey- tecostal Research Center on the Lee Univer- Christ. Likewise, the Gauses’ son, Valdane, mour, Gause’s life reflects the grace and sity campus. [email protected]
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