REQUIREMENTS OF FAITHFULNESS AS A STEWARD OF GOD - CHARLIE CABURIAN

REQUIREMENTS OF FAITHFULNESS AS A STEWARD OF GOD

“Let a man so account of us, as the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that o man be found faithful.” –I Cor. 4: 1-2

This part of the scripture specifically points to the minister but may I point out that stewardship is not limited to them alone. The church, every single member of the Church of God is a steward in one way or the other. We all have something given from God which He entrusted and as a steward we must be found faithful as the text declares. From these thoughts I’ve drawn from, I give this message the title “Requirements of Faithfulness as a Steward of God.”

Before going any further, there are two words that needs to be defined; they are requirements and faithfulness. Requirement in part means, “essential condition” and faithfulness in part means “being constant, true.” Faithfulness is derived from the root word faithful which is synonymous with loyalty. The key question to unlock the heart of this message would be “What are the Requirements (essential conditions) of Faithfulness (being constant, true) as a steward of God?” But before that, let us also consider the question, “Why is faithfulness required?” Let me answer by quoting from Bro. Greg Tylers’s ICC message October 2007 issue. In fact my formulating of this message was after reading and meditating on that message through approaching it on a different angle. “Why is faithfulness required? First of all, for our own eternal welfare. For us to gain a crown of life at the last day, we must be faithful to God. Faithfulness is required for our own eternal welfare and also for the spiritual welfare of others. Other people’s eternal destiny might depend on my faithfulness or my lack thereof faithfulness is required for the perpetuation of the gospel. Angels aren’t coming down on earth to show the gospel to humanity. “Faithfulness is required for the perpetuation of the gospel and for the preservation of the Church. We are part of something that is greater than we ourselves. Everyone is important. We are part of the greatest institution on the face of the earth. The progress of that institution (speaking of the Church) or the lack of progress, somewhat depends on our faithfulness. That’s why it is required of stewards that a man or woman be faithful. Faithfulness is required as a proof that the word of God is true. We prove if we are faithful that the word of God is true.” Please bear that in mind as you go along reading this message.

SALVATION – NECESSARY

Salvation is necessity. Salvation is the only method or means of placing us to the high rank of becoming a steward of God Almighty. No other way will do. A man may profess to be a steward of God without salvation but such stewardship is not conceded or accepted by God. To be steward we must be God called and God sent man. Never will God use as sinner to become a steward of His Heavenly Kingdom. In fact, salvation is the primary condition for being a faithful steward and the things to be discussed will serve as auxiliaries which I wish to enlarge upon. This confronts us with the question, “What is Salvation?” In the book of Matthew chapter 1 verse 21, we read “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shall call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.” The dictionary meaning of save in part means, “rescue, deliver, liberate, free”, and from what will Jesus save his people? The answer is a bare and obvious fact, it is from their sins. I searched for the meaning of the word “from” and this is what I found out – expressing point of departure, source, distance, cause, change of state, etc. So does this mean we can live free FROM sin? Precisely, through Jesus Christ we can. Salvation is effected by repentance… Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Luke 13:3. True repentance is manifested by its fruits. “Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” Matthew 3:8. Deep sorrow for sin is one of the fruits meet for repentance. “For Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of…”2 Cor. 7:10. “For I will declare mine iniquity, I will be sorry for my sin.” Psalm 38:18. In repenting, we throw ourselves to God with a broken and contrite spirit “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, o God thou will not despise.” Psalm 51:17. There must be also a desire to leave our sins behind and with the desire comes the willingness to do or obey. And faith must also step in to get the work done.”...Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved…” Acts 16:31. This so far is the initial work of salvation, which allows us to become stewards of God. To become more useful and faithful, the Christian must also experience the sanctification of his nature. Yes, there’s a subsequent work after regeneration. Sanctification is not effected by repentance but rather an offering of self as a living sacrifice for cleansing of the deprived nature. It is called death to self. The Christian no longer lives for himself but rather Christ liveth in Him. It is a total consecration of our whole being. In doing this, we experience the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit and its infilling that enables us to become more useful as a steward of God.

As a stated earlier, salvation is the only method or means of placing an individual to become a steward of God. One notable example of this from the scripture is the experience we see from the life of the great prophet Isaiah. We find that in Isaiah 6: 1-8, space forbids that I’ll go on details writing that passage of the scripture and if we’re quite familiar with the scripture we’ll understand, but for those who needs some detailed information I ask them to read it from their Bibles. In that passage of the scripture, it is vividly evident that there is a qualification to the plea “Whom shall I send?” and evidently the qualification is salvation. We see here the sequence of the process of salvation in Isaiah’s life. Isaiah was “enlightened” to the truth that he is a sinner by his confession “… I am a man of unclean lips...” and we see him deeply sorrowed by saying “..Woe is me for I am undone..” What makes this beautiful was his willingness of inclination (not forced of frightened) to allow God to touch his lips and take his sins away and be purged. Consequently, he then was allowed to be sent bearing the message (one way of stewardship, another is the holy life that Christian’s bear) to be heralded to ancient Israel. Doubtless, circumstances in life are different among individual but despite the differences all who wants (and all must want it) to be steward of God must go through the same process. That is the staring point of being steward. Now in our days that sin in various forms and even different man-made religious denominations makes it difficult to prove this wonderful holy life. I emphasize sternly the need of exhibiting a clear and attractive holy life that Christians must near. Oh beloved Church of God, our holy life bears the message before this sin-benighted world. We also read in the scripture that we are “epistles known and read of all men”, that is a demand for a conscientious living. WE read in Titus 2:140 …”adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.” To adorn there means “make beautiful, attractive, etc.” and the question I would like to raise there is “How are we going to adorn the doctrine of God”” May our answer be; by being a faithful steward of God!

REQUIREMENTS OF FAITHFULNESS

There are different virtues doubtless that will lead individual Christians to become more faithful. Let me name a few and I pray that what I am sharing will elevate the Church’s faithfulness.

I. FAITH

Faith makes us faithful. The Bible definition of faith means “…the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” He.11:1. There are three distinct meanings of faith. First, the act of the soul towards God and in His words. Secondly, faith is the doctrine of gospel. Third, historical faith. Historical faith is an active kind. If we desire to be faithful, we must have the first one listed above. In effect, if we have faith in God and in His promises comes the assurance that what He says He’ll do. In other words we can well count on what God says will come to pass. It would be unreasonable to be faithful to someone who is ever true and faithful. In the midst of trials and temptations, it is faith in God that will enable us to stand and pass through them showing our faithfulness. Faith produces an optimistic outlook in life, “And we know (believe with faith) that all thins work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to Hid purpose.” Romans 8:28. Even the most sorrowful event of life cannot lead us to be unfaithful if we have faith in our heart that says, “Everything works together for good.” We show our faithfulness by our faith in God. Temptations come as an effort of the devil to make us unfaithful but by having faith in God’s promises we can counter-act that by that by believing the words we find in I Cor. 10:13, “There hath no temptation taken you but such is common to man but God is faithful who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” Believing on these words firmly will help us not to let God down. If Christians fail as a result of temptation, it shows a lack of faith, it’s a letting down of faith. Our faith must not be stagnant. Faith is even one of our most important armor; we read that in the book of Ephesians. Our faith must increase. Though our measure of faith depends on God’s distribution – Romans 12:3 “…according as God dealt to every man the measure of faith.” He still expects something on our part. Faith can be increased in various ways; by Bible reading, meditations, hearing, etc. “So then faith cometh by hearing and bearing the word of God.” Romans 10:17. One vital way to strengthen our faith is by exercising holiness. This faith and works in dual action. Have enough faith dearly beloved for faith begets faithfulness.

II. HOPE

Hope is next to faith. Hope in part means “expectation of something desired.” Let me share the interesting ideas given by the late D.O. Teasly in his book “Rays of Hope”, “Christian hope is the firm expectation of all promised good things, so far as they may be for God’s glory and our good but especially of eternal salvation and happiness in heaven where we shall be conformed to the son of God which hope is founded on the grace blood righteousness and intercession of Christ, and the earnest of the Holy Spirit in our hearts and the unchangeable truth and almighty power of God, which will always second His word. This hope is distinguished from worldly hopes, first by excellency of the object which is an eternal state of glory and joy; whereas worldly hopes are terminated on empty vanishing things gilded over with the thin appearance of good. Secondly by the stability of its foundation, namely God’s unchangeable truth and almighty power. God cannot lie and consequently neither deceive our faith, nor disappoint our hopes; He can do all things which the apostle makes the ground of his confidence. 2 Timothy 1: 12, I know whom I have believed and I am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed to Him against that day. But worldly hopes are always uncertain. There is so much of impotence or deceit in all the means used to obtain human desires that the success is doubtful. Thirdly, divine hope is distinguished from carnal presumption by its inseparable effect; it has a cleansing efficacy. I John 3:2, ‘Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. He endeavors to shun all sin, and to be perfecting holiness. He purifieth himself by the assistance of the Holy Spirit, from whom the spiritual life, and all the operations if it do proceed. But vain and groundless hopes are inspirations of wind, loose and effective.” I cannot describe any better the way Bro. D. O. Teasly did. These suits perfectly the reason to be faithful. Knowing that beyond the troubles and persecutions as a consequence of righteous living is an eternal home with joy and glory, and knowing that this is real and not fancy; is there a reason cause to be unfaithful? Remind ourselves dearly beloved, St.Paul as a result of faithfulness said in Acts 28:20 – “For the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.” Can we dear Christians say that “For my hope of heaven I will be faithful?”

III. OBEDIENT ATTITUDE

If we have an active faith and lively hope for heaven we are doubtless going to do (obey) the things that will lead us there. There must be within us an obedient attitude to every new light that comes our way as a result of walking with God. Obedience will elevate our spirituality and unlocks God’s power. Those who obey easily are the ones who grow into Christian maturity easily. I think of the apostle Paul. It did not take long years for the apostle Paul to become a man of prestige, his secret: obedience. I read a phrase that goes somewhat this way “In the spiritual world, maturity is not measured by time but by obedience pursued in conforming to become more like Christ.” Let me also say that “maturity is not measured by how much you know but by how you live what you know.” When people see you obeying God despite the scorns and persecutions they see someone who is loyal, loyal for the cause of Christ.

IV. LOVE

Love is the most powerful force on the face of the earth. That godly love “shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” This love is our motivating factor to be faithful. This love will be tested. There will be people allowed in our midst to become a tool of the devil. They’ll curse you; they’ll criticize you; persecute you, but having this love will help us realize that it’s the devil working behind instead of looking at what they’re doing, that deep love will see the need of that poor soul down on our persecutor’s heart. In fact love is the reason why we obey God’s commandments. Let our love be always on fire that people sees us as someone who is persuaded that even our bitterest enemy cannot cause us to be unfaithful. “Charity (love) suffereth long, and is kind (kindness is better than being right); charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself; is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoice not in iniquity, but rejoice in truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth…” To have more of this love is to be more faithful.

V. HUMILITY

A humble heart acknowledges that he doesn’t know everything that’s why they always find the mind of God in everything he does. Humility will teach us to accept rebukes heartily. There are those who seem to be accepting rebukes but in their hearts is a resistance. A real humble heart is easily entreated. When we have more hearts of humility, problems which are inevitable can be easily solved. God always blesses the humble and brings down the proud. Pride is a bar that blocks God’s grace in our hearts. A humble heart esteems other more highly than themselves. These words are no doubt easier said than done but we can have more humility for all a work in progress. Let me share here something that’s quite interesting, taken from Pulpit Helps.

“If two goats meet each other in a narrow path above a stream of water, what do they do? They cannot turn back, and they cannot pass each other for there is not an inch of space room. Instinctively, they know if they butt each other, both will fall into the water below and be drowned. What would do they do?

Nature has taught one goat to lie down so that the other can pass over its body; as a result, each goat arrives at its destination safe and sound.

Try it. It works.”

Want to become faithful? Be humble.

VI. PATIENCE

Christian life is described as a race. In the book of Hebrew it is said that “…run with patience this race that is set before us.” Why do we need patience? We need it because this life is a life of severe battle, battle against the wickedness. And this battle is not just for a day but a lifetime battle here on earth. There are different effects coming from the devil trying to hinder us. These sufferings must be patiently endured. Patience is said that “it’s not the ability to wait but it’s having the right attitude while waiting.” Patience is needed in winning souls for Christ. Patience is needed in molding newborn babes in Christ. Patience is needed in solving problems of a local Church. Let us not minimize the importance of patience. Let me again share here a story entitled “Don’t give up…” taken from the book “Stories of the Heart.”

“One day a young man was walking along an isolated road when he heard something like a crying sound. He couldn’t tell for sure what the sound was but it seemed to be coming from underneath a bridge. As he approach the bridge, the sound got louder and then he saw a pathetic sight. There, lying in the muddy river bed, was a puppy about two months old. It has a gash on its head and was covered with mud. Its front legs were swollen where they had been tightly bound with cords.

The young man was immediately moved with compassion and wanted to help the dog, but as he approached, the crying stopped and the dog started snarled his lip and started to growl. But the young man did not give up. He sat down and started gently talking to the dog. It took a long time but eventually the dog stopped growling and the man was able to inch forward and eventually touched the dog and begin unwrapping the tightly bound cord. The young man carried the dog home, cared for its wounds, and gave it food and water and a warm bed. Even with this all, the dog continued to snarl and growl every time the young man approached. But the young man did not give up.

Weeks went by and the young man continued caring for the puppy. Then one day, as the young man approached, the dog wagged its tail. Consistent (patient) love and kindness had won a lifelong friendship of loyalty and trust began.”

“And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9. Patience is needed to build a character of faithfulness.”

7TH ANNIVERSARY CHURCH OF GOD BINANGONAN, RIZAL - Sis. Jenny Facunla

“Upholding a glorious Church – Holy and Unwrinkled”. Eph. 5:27

Ito ang naging tema sa pagdiriwang ng ika- pitong anibersaryo ng Iglesia ng Dios dito sa Binangonan, Rizal noong Enero 27, 2008, na dinaluhan ng mga kapatiran mula sa Metro Manila at ilang kaluluwang pinaunlakan ang mga paanyaya ng Panginoon.

Tunay na ang presensya ng Panginoon ay nasa Kaniyang mga anak. Ang pag-awit ng himno at debosyon ay sinimulan sa pangunguna ni Sis. Jenny Facunla. Ito ay sinundan ng pagbasa ng Banal na Kasulatan.

Pinangunahan ni Bro. Bert Domondon ang Paaralang Lingguhan na may Paksang , “Moses, an Example in Leadership”. Ang mga tanong at susog ay nagsilbing pagpapala, hamon at karagdagang kaalaman sa mga kapatid.

Matapos ang pag-aaral at pagbati sa mga kapatid na may kaarawan sumunod ang Worship Service na pinangunahan ni Bro. Nino Dumrique. Narinig ang mga ulat at mga special song ng mga kapatid na nagmula sa ibat-ibang kongregasyon kalakip ang kanilang pagbati at mga ibayong hamon.

Isang hamon at pagpapala ang mensahe na ibinahagi ni Bro. Jet Batalla, na ginamit ng Dios na malinis na kasangkapan sa pangangaral ng Ebangelio. Ang pamagat ng mensahe ay “Church of God, A Glorious Church”, Eph. 5:27. Purihin ang Panginoon at may apat na kaluluwa ang lumapit sa altar pagkatapos ng mensahe.

Ang mga kapatid sa Binangonan ay lubos na nagagalak at nagpapasalamat sa mga kapatiran at higit sa Dios sa tagumpay ng Kaniyang gawain sa lugar na ito. Patuloy po tayong magbigay hamon at magdalanginan sa ikaluluwalhati ng Iglesia ng Dios. Pagpalain tayo ng Dios.

18th Anniversary Church of God San Rafael, Bulacan - By Sis. Marilou Dela Cruz

18^th Anniversary Church of God

San. Rafael, Bulacan

Papuri at pasasalamat sa Dios sa taong lumipas at sa panibagong taon na muling kahaharapin natin ngayon. Parang kailan lang Jan. 2007 palang, 17^th year pa lang ang gawain ng Dios dito na nagpasimula noong taong 1990. Ngayon ito na muli Jan 2008 at18th year na ang Gawain ditto. Napakadakila ang pagibig ng Dios di talaga kayang lubusang maipaliwanag. Salamat sa pagtatagumpay sa tulong niya.

Bago pa dumating ang takdang araw ng pagdiriwang Enero 20 ay naghahanda na ang mga kapatid dahil isang maliit na lugar lamang ang kapilya dito gumawa sila ng dagdag na silungan na kung tawagin ay damara. Bagaman kapos sa materyal na maaring gugulin ngunit tunay na totoo ang mga pangako ng Dios na di tayo iiwan ni pababayaan man. Sa tamang panahon sa takdang oras naroon ang tulong at tugon Niya.

Enero 19 ng gabi dumating na si Bro. Jet na mula sa Baguio City upang makiisa sa pagdaraos ng Kanyang gawain. Isa siya sa mga ginamit ng Dios sa Kanyang gawain sa lugar na ito. Ganap na ika-pito ng umaga ng magpasimula ng magdatingan ang mga kapatiran sa ibat-ibang lugar. Unang dumating ang mga kapatiran galing ng Binangonan, Rizal. Tunay nakapagpapala sila sapagkat nakasakay lamang sila ng tricycle. Hindi alintana ang tagal ng paglalakbay makadalo lamang sa pagtitipon na ito. Sumunod na dumating ay mga taga Sta. Maria, Bulacan at mag iba pang mga kapatiran.

Sa takdang oras, ika-walo ng umaga nagpasimula na ang gawain sa pangunguna ni Sis. Marita. Nag-awitan ng mga himno at sinundan ng Lingguhang Pag-aaral sa pangunguna ni Bro. Jun Resureccion ng Sta. Maria, Bulacan. Ang paksa ng pagaaral ay tungkol sa Pagibig na Halimbawa ni Joseph sa lumang Tipan. Nagkaroon ng talakayan, paliwanagan at mga kuro-kuro patungkol sa pag-iibigang magkakapatid.

Nagtapos ang pag-aaral bago ika-10 ng umaga. Napaka-gandang pagmasdan at pakinggan na sama-samang nag-aawitan ang mga mag-kakapatid sa Panginoon sa gitna ng bukid sa ilalim ng tolda o damarang ginawa ng mga kapatid. Matahimik ang paligid, maririnig ang mga awitan ng mga ibon at pagaspas ng hangin sa mga punong kahoy. Malayo sa usok at ingay ng mga sasakyan. Kay sarap makinig ng Salita ng Panginoon.

Nagpasimula ang sebisyong pagsamba matapos ang pananalangin sa mga nagdaos ng mga may kaarawan. Sa pangunguna ni Sis. Malou nagpatuloy ang pagaawitan ng mga himno. Ang tema sa pagdaraos ng Gawain ay mula sa aklat ng mga Awit 27: “Wait on the Lord with strength and faithfulness “. Nagbigay ng mga pagbati at tanging awit ang mga kapatid na mula sa ibat-ibang lugar. Tulad ng mga kapatid na mula sa Bicutan, Signal Village at Quezon City. Ang saya ng mga anak ng Dios. Kay palad na makasama sa Kanyang Pamilya.

Sa ika-11 ng umaga oras ng pagbabahagi ng Salita ng Panginoon sa pamamagitan ni Bro. Jet. Ang paksa ng kanyang mensahe ay “ Full Salvation, What it Make Us”, I Pedro 5:10. Sa oras ng panawagan sa altar ay may mga ilang kaluluwa ang lumapit sa Dios upang magsisi at maghandog ng kanilang sarili. Ginanap ding ang Banal na Pagpapagaling kaya ganap na ika 12;30 ng tanghali natapos ang serbisyo. Purihin ang Dios muling pinagpala ang gawain dito. Isa sa mga lumapit sa altar ay ang Nanay ni Sis. Malou sya ang taga panguna dito. Salamat sa Dios at mga kapatid na patuloy ang pagibig at pagsuporta sa gawain ng Dios sa lugar na ito.

Sa Dios ang papuri at kaluwalhatiaan! Amen!

2007 PHILIPPINE CONVENTION - BRO. MANNY YANGCO

2007 Philippine Convention

A Report from the Notes Compiled by Bro. Manny Yangco

Theme: “Dwell together in unity” Ps. 133:1

Following is a brief report of the services of the annual Philippine Convention held on December 28, 2007 – January 1, 2008.

Friday, December 28, 2007

6:00 A.M. Morning Devotion – Bro. Aladin Baysa, pastor of Gerona congregation delivered God’s message using the text from Ps. 133:1. He entitled his thought “Perfecting Unity.” He challenged every Christian to do his part in preserving the unity of the church. A fervent prayer followed after the message.

10:00 A.M. Service – Bro. Douglas Shenberger was the preacher. His message was entitled “The Reasons Why We Need to Have Unity” based from Ps. 133:1, while Bro. Dennis Shenberger gave an inspiring song before the message. Bro. Douglas stressed the importance of unity in God’s work. He also emphasized how unity can be destroyed. Three souls went to the altar during the altar call.

2:00 P.M. Service

Bro. Antonio Dumrigue, pastor of Barang congregation spoke on “Unity of the Faith” from Ephesians 4: 13. He encouraged the Christians especially the minister to remain steadfast and preserve the doctrines of the Church of God. He also said that unity is the key to Church work’s success.

7:00 P.M. Service

Bro. Harley McClung was God’s messenger. He entitled his thought “God’s Army – The Church.” Special songs were sung before the message that truly blessed our hearts. He emphasized that God’s army was to be under the Captain of the Church- Jesus Christ. Seven souls came to the altar after the message.

Saturday, December 29, 2007

6:00 A.M. Morning Devotion – Bro. Arnold Ordonio, pastor of Balaoang congregation was the preacher. He used the text from Ps. 133: 1. His message was entitled “The Unity of the Believers.” He said that there was only one head of the church, one spirit and that all Christians have the same spirit of love and truth. Again the Holy Spirit moved in our mist and many ministers went to the altar.

10:00 A.M. Service – Bro. Donnie Shenberger spoke on “Our Spirit” from Daniel 5: 10; 6:3. He encouraged every Christian to have the spirit of Christ. Bro. Donnie’s trip to the Philippines for this convention was his second after eight years.

2:00 P.M. Service – Bro. Bernard Neri, pastor of Kalilangan, Bukidnon in Mindanao was God’s messenger. He entitled his thought “Present your bodies a living sacrifice.” His text was from Romans 12:1. He called on all Christians to consecrate their lives to God. Five souls went to the altar.

7:00 P.M. Service – Bro. Harley McClung spoke on inheritance that God is able to give for those who will accept. His text was in II Peter 3: 19.

Sunday, December 30, 2007

8:00 A.M Worship Service – Sis. Julie Yangco led the devotional singing. Bro. Arnold Chichioco led the Sunday School, while Sis Judith Batalla was the chairperson. Bro. Doug Shenberger was the speaker. He spoke on “The True Worship” from Revelation 4: 3, 10; 5: 12. After the message was delivered, 14 souls went to the altar.

2: 00 P.M. Service – Bro. Jesus Batalla was the messenger. He preached on “Bible Unity.” He based his thought in Ephesians 4: 3-15. He stressed that “Bible Unity” can only be attained one has the spirit of love. After the message 10 souls sought the Lord in the altar.

7:00 P.M. Service – Bro. Harley McClung was God’s spokesman. He entitled his thought “Keep in Memory What I Have Preached.” He used the text in I Corinthians 15: 1, 2. After the message, 19 souls went to the altar.

Monday, December 31, 2007

6:00 A.M. Morning Devotion – Bro. Rogelio Eupenia, pastor of Dagupan Congregation was the preacher. He spoke on the “The Unity of the Church.” His text was in Ephesians 4: 11-14. He preached on the importance of unity among the Christian believers.

10:00 A.M. Service – Bro. Greg Escullar, pastor of Candoni, Negros Occidental was God’s messenger. He entitled his thought “What Convince You That You Are in Truth” His text was in John 8:36, after the message no one was not kneeling. To God be the glory!

2:00 P.M. Service – Bro. Ed Coraraton, pastor of Sulop Congregation in Davao was the speaker. His text was in Isaiah 43: 7-12. He spoke on the subject “You Are My Witnesses.” He challenged every Christian to be an effective and useful witnesses of Christ. After the message, four souls came to the altar.

7:00 P.M. Service- Bro. Harley McClung spoke on “The Fruit of Happiness.” His text was in Galatians 6:24. Before the message, inspiring songs were sung by brethren from local congregations and by Bro. Dennis Shenberger. They were truly a blessings to us. Nine souls sought the Lord in the altar after the message. Praise God!

Tuesday, January 1, 2008

6:00 A.M. Morning Devotion – Bro. Arthur Marzan, pastor of Bicutan Congregation in Metro Manila was the speaker. He spoke on the “Unity of the Church.” A prayer followed the message. What a sweet hour of prayer to start the New Year.

10:00 A.M. Service- Bro. Rudencio Delos Reyes, pastor of Nipaco Congregation was God’s spokesman. His text was in Micah 6:8. He entitled his thought “Humility.” After the message 14 souls went to the altar.

2:00 P.M. Service – Sis. Meldy Santiago, pastor of Sta. Maria Congregation was the preacher. Her thought was entitled “What God’s Expects His People For 2008.” Her text was in Ephesians 4: 17-25. She stressed that Christians should hold on to the salvation they received from the Lord. She also emphasized to uphold the standard of holiness, simplicity and modesty. God once again touched every heart during this service and everybody humbly knelt down for salvation and consecration.

7:00 P.M. Service – Bro. Harley McClung was God’s messenger for the last service of the convention. His subject was “Disappointments.” His text was in Proverb 15:22. A number of spirit-rousing songs were rendered before the message. Bro. Donnie Shenberger, Bro. Douglas Shenberger, Bro. Dennis Shenberger also gave theirs entitled “What A Day.” Nine souls went to the altar after the message. Praise God for what He has done during the five-day convention. Hallelujah!

12TH YEAR ANNIVERSAY OF THE CHURCH OF GOD STA. MARIA, BULACAN - Sis. Meldy Santiago

The Church of God here in Sta. Maria celebrated our 12th year anniversary last Sunday, December 2, 2007. It is a blessing to remember the time when God sent one of His servants in this place where souls were thirsting and hungering for the truth of God’s Word. Once were lost but thank God were found and has been fed in the green pasture through the Church of God which Jesus hath purchased with his own blood. It was year 1995 when I decided to returned home from Middle East country of Bahrain to start building the work of God in our place which I’ve never regret in all my life since then. Despite the hard times and persecution I’ve encountered from my mother who was a devoted Catholic at that time and said that we won’t go farther and we will soon come to an end, but for twelve years, the Church of God at Sta. Maria still standing for the truth and faith of the Gospel. Glory to His name! We know that the Lord is also dealing with the heart of my mother, the abhorrence she had on me and to all the saints she met (because of my conversion to true Christianity) was all gone. She doesn’t go any longer to the Catholic Church during Sunday but stay at home, at times attending our Sunday service and sometimes conversing with the brethren. What we’ve been waiting for and keep on praying is to see her humbling herself before God and personally accept Jesus as her Lord and Savior.

The theme of our Anniversary was taken from Deuteronomy 4:6 “The wise and understanding people of God” It is to encourage each one that the true Church of God are compose of wise and knowledgeable people who rightly dividing the Word of truth. The Lord said that we shall not add unto the Word or diminish ought from it. The true Christians are wise to discern the good from evil; right from wrong; and truth from error. Praise His Holy name!

The service was started with devotional singing presided by Sis. Tita Pantino followed by the kneeling prayer led by Sis. Rose Marzan of Bicutan. We asked the presence of God and His blessing to pour out in our midst as we proceed to our service. We were fasted and prayed much for our 12th year anniversary service knowing that the Lord still moves and manifests in the assembly of the true and humble saints of God; and He’s always willing to meet the needs of each lowly in spirit. Bro. Jun Ressureccion taught the Sunday school lesson. Our topic was “The Christian faces traditions of men”. The discussion went smoothly and efficiently as the ministers contributed their knowledge and share their thought that helped each one to be enlightened of the traditions of men which should not to be followed that we may not be led away from the truth. Thank the Lord for the light of His Word and for leading us to the truth of the Bible. We’ve been freed from worldliness and traditions of men. As the anniversary of the local church at Sta. Maria comes, the ambiance of Convention is at hand. Approaching December is stimulating times of preparation for Christmas celebration for the so-called Christians in the world, but for the true Christians, the Church of God Philippines, it is the inspiring times of preparation for the coming Church of God Convention.

One usual part of the service is the greetings and testimony of birthday celebrants (brethren/family member) during the past whole week. There were two young sisters, two little boys from Sta. Maria congregation and two brothers from other congregation uttered their thankfulness to God. We are very thankful to God for granting Sis. Mhaye‘s heart desire to be with us on our anniversary service as it was also her birthday. She has been persecuted and being hindered by her family to come to the church service. She prayed much to God to make away for her to spend her birthday on the church service to have an opportunity to testify for the Lord, thank the Lord; she made a right choice and was able to express her gratefulness on what God has done to her life. (After the service she immediately went home thinking that her parents were already waiting for her. An hour later, I received a text message from her father, asking for her. I called him up and explained everything). May the Lord help her in all battles she may ever face and keep her faith and promise to our Lord. Sis. Judith led the prayer for the birthday celebrants.

Various congregations were present in our service; each of them gave their report and rendered a song that brought us more to the spirit of worship: “Only the Saints will be There” by Bicutan; “ Jesus will Outshine Them All” by Signal Village; “Shall We Gather at the River” by Binangonan; "Mt. Zion" by Quezon City; and “I Found the Better Way” by San Rafael. There were also brethren came from other places. Sis Letty Logan of Dubai who’s presently taking her vacation here in the Philippines and Sis Grace of Samar were also present. Invited visitors also attended the service; one of them came to altar. Bro. Randy Rovero of Sta. Maria (a newly born young Christian) gave his testimony on how he came to know the Lord and found the truth of the Church of God (He was one of the leaders of the music ministry of Baptist Church).He accepted the Lord last year, during our Convention when Bro. Greg Tyler preached about “Eternity”. The Sta. Maria children presented a special number, singing with action “Oh Be careful” adds joy to our souls and two young Christians: daughter and son of Sis. Jackie of Sta. Maria who has been suffering from cancer of the breast since April this year; sung a song “Thank You Lord”. We couldn’t help but our tears flowed from our eyes as we felt the presence of God and what a joy it was to feel the blessings of God in this service. Bro Jet Batalla also came down from Bagiuo City together with his wife, Sis.Wilma and her sister; Sis. Judith Batalla from Paniqui, Tarlac. They arrived Saturday night. Bro Jet Batalla was God’s instrument in building the Church of God here in Sta. Maria. He labored for three years in our place and when the Lord knew that we can already stand on our own but through the grace of God and the leading of the Holy Spirit, He called Bro Jet and sent to Dagupan where the he started to build a new congregation that time. Now, he is laboring in Bagiuo City where he is ministering the Radio Broadcast.

Bro. Jet Batalla was the speaker of the service. He spoke on “The Church, The Temple of God” referring to 1 Corinthians 3:9-10. He emphasized the importance of each member as a laborer together with God that shall be in harmony with one another just like the temple of Solomon when it was built. The workers of God are considered wise builder and Jesus Christ is the laid foundation of this building. We were also encouraged to continue to live according to the teaching of Jesus Christ and not to the other teaching founded by men. At the altar call, there were six souls came to the altar. Afterwards, the elders anointed our ailing brethren with oil and prayed for their healing.

That concluded our blessed service. Sis Judith led the closing prayer looking forward for the success of the coming Convention more than what God has done in this service. After the service as we greet one another with a holy kiss, we said “the devil has defeated the Lords won the victory!” We are very thankful to our dear Lord and Savior for His great faithfulness. We also want to express our sincere thanks to those who prayed much for the victory of God’s work here in Sta. Maria. Without much prayer of the saints and abundant grace of our Loving God, we would not reach our 12Th year anniversary. Truly we are laborers together with God and we are helping one another to build the work of our Lord here in the Philippines and throughout the world as well. May God bless us all!

VISIT OUR NEW WEB SITE

GOSPEL SONGS IN VIDEO

WHAT IS TRUTH AND HOW TO PROVE IT - CHARLIE CABURIAN

I THANK GOD for this rare opportunity of presenting a simple message. I pray that this message may be empowered by the Holy Spirit, and at the same time anointing will be given to every reader.

Salvation is a popular and controversial issue among professing Christians. The sad fact is, it is also widely misunderstood thus causing confusion, and as a result many precious souls treat Christianity as failure. But despite these, the truth about salvation still exists and only those who are motivated by right intentions, those who accept the Bible as it is, those who are willing to meet the conditions, will find this “Pearl of Great Price.” “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” The title of this message is simply, “What Truth is and How to Prove it.”

In the gospel of St. John 8:32 we read, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” These words from the Master aroused His hearer’s interest about an amusing subject, that of freedom. Here, let us first set aside truth and focus our attention about freedom. In fact, this freedom is “vital” in letting us understand truth.

Let me ask a question that will lead us to understand freedom. What was binding these Jews that brought them to a position that they were in need of freedom? They even insisted that they were Abraham’s seed and were never in bondage to any man. But to this our Master responded, “Verily verily, I say unto you, Whosoever COMMITTETH SIN is the SERVANT OF SIN.” Here we understand that anyone who is living in sin is a servant, or simply, a prisoner. May that be plain and simple enough.

It has been said, “The first step to victory is to know who our enemy is”; and since sin is man’s greatest enemy, it is highly important that we understand the nature of sin, the cause and effect of it, and its attributes. Sin of course is empowered by Satan, and we see the first person to be captivated by sin was Eve. To understand further, sin has three forms and the Bible calls it as the things of the world. “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh [fornication, vices, anger, etc.], the lust of the eyes [pornography, sexual movies], and the pride of life [fame, selfish ambitions], is not of the Father, but is of the world” (I John 2:16). Sin is defined in the Bible as “transgression of the law” (I John 3:4). But, let us understand that sin has two definite senses. Here, I ask the reader to CAREFULLY CONSIDER this part. Let us read I John 5:17. “All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin [that leadeth] NOT unto death.” In verse 16 we read, “… there is a sin [that leadeth] UNTO death.” What is the difference between the two? In one sense it is NOT UNTO DEATH, while in another sense it is UNTO DEATH. So sin is clearly identified by the cause and effect of it, because in one text we read, “The wages of sin is death.” To make it more simple, let us name “sin unto death” as IMPUTED SIN, and “sin not unto death” as UNIMPUTED SIN. Unimputed sin is a transgression of God’s law and leadeth NOT unto death, because anyone who UNKNOWINGLY transgresses a law of God is innocent for “… sin is not imputed when there is no law” (Romans 5:13). Imputed sin, either commission or omission, involves our will, freedom, knowledge and consent. Anyone who is found guilty of this sin is under condemnation; dead, a prisoner, and if not amended eternal punishment will be his final destination. I believe this is the sin that Jesus was talking about when He said, “Whosoever committeth sin is a servant of sin.” This is the condition of many. That’s why our Master said, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

If we desire freedom, Dearly Beloved, the truth is clear. Jesus is the “way, the truth and the life.” It is a failure when we use our own feeble strength in obtaining this freedom. More religions, more prison houses or organizations won’t do because, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved [freed]” (Acts 4:12). “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save [free] his people [creation; family of man] FROM their sins” (Matthew 1:21). But, we cannot obtain this freedom or salvation without realizing our need of God. There must be a SINCERE heart’s desire to leave the life of sin, and a desire to stop sinning. If no desire is found, better not start at all because it will only end up into another failure. Leaving a life of sin is launching to a different kind of life, the very opposite of sin—holiness. And, we are aspiring for a life of service and sacrifice for Jesus. We must deny ourselves. That’s why it is important to COUNT THE COST. Salvation is experienced and obtained through the process of conversion or being born again, justified or pardoned from sin simultaneously. True repentance is necessary. The time must come that we feel sick and tired of sin and come to God really repenting of our sins. “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and contrite heart, O God, thou will not despise” (Psalm 51:17). “I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3). This is now, or never; tomorrow might be too late. “Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth” (Proverbs 27:1). Redeem the time, Sinner Friend. We are free moral agents and the choice is left to us. Come to God with an open and humble heart. Though this freedom will cost your whole life, it is all worth it. So if there is something holding you back, let me ask you a question to answer with reasonableness. If you are going to surrender your life to Jesus, will it lead you to destruction or harm you? No, no and no! Of course not. In fact it’s the other way around. Life is joyful if we are living free from sin. I know what it is to be in bondage to sin—no peace of mind; no life’s purpose; no assurance; something is always lacking; afraid to die; a life full of confusion and misery. But thank God, Jesus came on the scene and liberated me. PRAISE AND MAGNIFY HIS NAME! Though I’m still a literal prisoner who was convicted for murdering my own cousin and grandmother, I have real freedom, because indeed the truth has set me free. I’m thankful because through those iron bars and thick walls, I was led to be still and consider who God is. I was also given the opportunity to listen to His words that helped me realize my need of salvation. And by meeting the Bible conditions, I can boldly say I’m free. Glory to His name! Dear Sinner Friend, you may be in a free society but if sin is dominating your life, you are bound by a powerful force and that kind of imprisonment is worse than being literally bound by chains or thick walls. May I point you to Jesus Christ and be set free. I sincerely pray that God will move on your heart. What will be your decision?

We proceed now to the remaining part of this message and it is centered on providing the truth. The dictionary defines prove as, “to establish validity; assertion; confirm; be found to be.” How then are we going to prove the truth? When I say truth, I mean the truth that Jesus Christ has indeed set you free from sin. The great Master said, and it is a logical explanation, “Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit” (Matthew 7:17). And verse 20 says, “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” What’s on the inside will NATURALLY come out. The life we live will prove who we really are because actions SPEAK LOUDER than words. If we truly are saved from sin, then the change or transformation that took place inside our hearts will show its effect in our lives and conduct. We will no longer be a liar, a thief, a murderer or any wicked kind of person. We are already “new creatures in Christ.” These words are plain and easy to understand, but because of many NOT having the desire to completely live from sin, they come up with the conclusion that it’s impossible to live free from sin, thus ending with a “sin you must” doctrine. I pray that this is not your ground, Friend, but instead you would be one of the precious souls that are willing to meet the conditions, and be a living proof of the TRUTH OF SALVATION. The Bible says, “Whosoever is born of God [saved from sin] doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God” (I John 3:9). This text is very clear. Salvation or being born of God is the cause, and “doth not commit sin” is the effect. So to cut it short, salvation is the STARTING POINT of holiness and through the sufficient grace of God we stay holy as we combat the temptations of the world, and will willingly walk in every light that shines on our way.

My prayer is that all Christians will stay true and a clear testimony will be exhibited before the sinners’ clear eyes and ears, so that they’ll conclude that “truly freedom from sin is possible.” “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

God bless you, and to God be the honor and glory Bro. Charlie Caburian, Philippines

(Taken from October 2007 issue of The Way of Truth)

MY TESTIMONY - Bro. Eddie A.Santos

I was born in a big family , two elder sisters and four brothers me being the youngest. My Father Tatang Tacs(Anastacio) as they call him was a good provider for he was able to sent us all six (6) in college and had all finished our bachelors degree. My Mother as they call her Nanay Paz is just a plain housewife and a housekeeper and I never saw her went to other houses and just mind her own business do all the caring for us and cooking and father do the budgeting. As a young boy I grew up in a Methodist church and was active then for I even join in their literary presentation during Christmas time but when I reached the age of a teenager I stopped entering their church instead went to the Catholic church for most of my friends were Catholics. My Family was never active in any church or denomination for my father and my mother never did I saw them enter in any of these sects or denominations but my grandfather the father of my mother who was a school teacher is a Methodist church member. So we were not obliged by our parents to go to any of these churches. During my young age I got sick so terribly that I was in delirium the ceiling of my room looks so vast and by that time I saw mother in her knees praying and in the morning I was well and I know God heard the prayer of my dear mother. My parents also accepted the Lord later in their years.

Starting with my experience with the Lord , after I graduated in college and had passed the board exam for civil engineers. I was full of ambition in life I went to the city of Manila in search for a job and I got one, while waiting then to be assigned to Bicol province on a big industrial project unfortunately I resigned for the reason that I was being hunted by someone that I had done wrong and I went back to Paniqui and it was then that brother Rey saw me and invited me but was so hesitant and always say to him some other time but he always drop by our house on his way to lacayanga to a night service in the house of Pastor Luzong’s son Garding. It started that way and then to a Sunday service to Pastor’s Luzong’s house where I was move by the Holy Spirit and I found myself in the altar seeking and asking forgiveness to the Lord I believed I was forgiven and was added unto the Church of God. All my ambitions in life to be a successful engineer totally changed and I found myself with bro. Jet, Bro. Arnold(bokwa),Bro. Ging, Sister Mercy (Sergio’s wife), Sis. Myrna luzong studying theology and homiletics in the tailoring shop of Pastor Luzong where he was our teacher. We have bible services every night and we were doing visitation on every houses with the leadership of Pastor Luzong. We were trained to stand in the pulpit and apply what we learned in homiletics. Until I met Sis. Nimpa sister of Bro. Ging who was then having her vacation she had just finished Nursing and waiting for the result of her board exam. I was captivated by her charm and we got married the first marriage officiated by Pastor Luzong in his ministry in the Church of God.

Things run so fast that we found ourselves with three children to support give their material needs and send to school. They were reared in the church of God and had also accepted the Lord as their personal Savior and we were so proud for that. I hope they continue to live like a church of God should be. Eva rose is now in her fourth year in college taking medical technology and Nehemiah Ed is now in his second year in engineering and Gracie Anne is with us here in Italy and now in her second year in high school, Gracie is so talented that she always got excellent grades. I hope that someday we will be back again to our beloved country and again together with brethren in the Church of God.

In Christ love,
Bro. Eddie

Five Kinds of Religion, C.W. Naylor

Christianity is a singing religion. The coming of Jesus was ushered in with the joyful chants of the heavenly throng. Singing has ever been a prominent part of the worship of God. When the soul has a vision of the God revealed in the New Testament it is uplifted, illuminated, inspired, exalted. This exaltation naturally bursts forth into heavenly songs—songs of joy and true happiness.

The vast wealth of song written by Christians and used in their religious devotions is in a strange and almost startling contrast to the lack of song in the other religions of the world. Music has little part in the worship of other systems of religion. The American Indian may sing his war song, song of the chase, or other similar songs in his religious festivals. The votaries of other religions may also sing songs, but these are generally not songs of worship but songs to placate their gods, rather than attempts to express their own joyfulness in the service of their gods. It is true that Buddhism in some countries is borrowing the Christian custom of song in worship and adapting Christian hymns to their worship. It should be noted, however, that this is a mere adaptation in the face of Christian competition rather than something that originated in Buddhism. So Christianity may be said to be the only singing religion including, of course, the worship of Israel, from which it has in a great measure been derived.

Religion has a powerful influence upon happiness. It adds much to or takes much from natural happiness, according to the kind of religion in which we believe. Christians do not all believe in the same sort of religion. True, they all believe in one God, and in one Bible, and in a general way in many of the same things. When we come to the practical side of religion, however, there are about five kinds of the Christian religion. Four of these produce little happiness, in fact may hinder happiness. They may stifle the song that would naturally arise from the free heart. The reader will do well to pause and consider as we notice these five kinds of religion—which, if any, he has, or if he has a mixture of them.

RELIGION OF SELF-DENIAL

First, there is the don't religion. It is the religion of self-denial. It is hedged in with numerous restrictions. It is a religion in which the worshiper is kept in a straight jacket. It is largely a negative religion. Those having this religion may be very strict, very sincere, very earnest, but they never can be truly happy. Happiness never comes from the purely negative aspect of life. When we deny ourselves anything in religion the purpose should not be merely that we be without it, but that we may put in its place something greater, something that will contribute more to our happiness and well-being. Religion is intended to make people free, with the highest type of freedom. "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed," is the slogan of the New Testament. A don't religion is conducive to bondage. There is a sort of satisfaction in this don't religion. It may gratify the sense of duty, but we must get a different sort of religion in order to know the secret of the singing heart.

RELIGION OF WORKS

The second kind of religion is the do religion. It consists of merely following forms and ceremonies, or obeying rules and regulations, or doing works of merit. Its followers may find considerable satisfaction in reading prayers, bowing down and arising, in making the sign of the cross, in keeping holy days, making pilgrimages in closely following outlined ceremonials and going through forms. Some of the forms of religion have a certain value in giving soul uplift, but they are a poor substitute for the realities of true religion. With this formalism there may be stately singing by trained choirs, there may be grand organs pealing forth, there may be intellectual discoursing, with the heart of genuine religion absent. The esthetic sense is gratified while the soul is left unfed or perhaps impoverished. This do religion trusts in works. It draws much satisfaction from what it has done. There was much of this sort of religion among the old Pharisees. But who ever saw a Pharisee who was truly happy, whose heart sang with joy? No, a religion of mere works, of forms and ceremonies, can bring little true happiness.

RELIGION OF THE LAW

Another form of religion is the Sinai religion. It hedges in lives with "thou shalt" and "thou shalt not." It is the mere keeping of commandments. It is a worshiper of authority. It is doing because one must. It is refraining from doing for fear of punishment. The God of Sinai still thunders forth in this religion. He is a great and awful God, crowned with majesty and glory, but far removed from the worshiper. He is worshiped in fear and trembling at the foot of the mountains whose summit is hidden in angry clouds. Out of these clouds flash the lightnings of divine vengeance. It is a stiff and rigorous religion. There is little of grace or mercy in it. It is walking by rule. There is little in it to start the songs that come from a peaceful and happy heart.

RELIGION OF EMOTIONS

Then there is what may be called the slippery religion. It is one that people must hold fast with all their might lest it should slip away from them. People who have this type of religion are constantly in fear of losing it. If they do this, or that, or the other thing, they wonder, "Now, have I lost my religion?" They are always examining themselves. They are always questioning and wondering. They cannot for long settle down to certainty. They are often overwhelmed with doubts and fears. They are constantly observing their emotions to see whether or not these emotions indicate whether they still have religion or have lost it.

Perhaps they pray and earnestly try to draw near to God. Then if joy and happiness come they are satisfied and sure they have their religion. But presently a dark day comes. Their emotions subside. Then they wonder again whether they still have their religion. In reality their struggle is not to keep their religion, but to keep their emotions and to satisfy their own questionings and doubts. This religion carries them alternately to the mountain top, then to the depths of the valley of humiliation. It is truly an "up and down" religion. This slippery sort of religion can never be the source of true and lasting happiness.

NEW TESTAMENT RELIGION

The fifth and true type of religion, the religion that corresponds with the teachings of the New Testament and with the experiences of those who have learned the inner and fuller realities of religion, is that religion which is of the heart. It is not a religion of restriction, neither of formalism. It is neither Sinai religion, nor a slippery religion. It is a religion in which the heart is in its natural element. It is a religion of peace and contentment, a religion of joyful service. It is the natural expression of the soul. It is a peaceful and harmonious relation with God. It is the relation of a child and its father. Its elements are simplicity, sincerity, purity, faith, love, and all the fruits of the Spirit. It is a Spirit-filled life. All these things just mentioned are the deep sources that feed the bubbling springs of joy that flow forth in the waters of rejoicing and song.

In this sort of religion God is not a great and terrible monarch, a stern judge, a task-master; nor his laws a set of hard decrees. No, the Christian religion as seen in its true light is "good tidings of great joy to all people." It is written, "Happy is that people whose God is the Lord." With such a religion we not only can read of the joys of salvation in the Scriptures but have the experience of them in our own souls. In this sort of Christian life we do not fear God in the sense of being afraid of him. We do not tremble before him.

Godly fear becomes the equivalent of reverential love and out of divine and spiritual love flow greater joys than flow out of natural love.

TWO SIDES OF THE TRUE RELIGION

Real religion has two sides—first, the inside, the relations of the soul with God. The Scripture says, "Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace." That means to get acquainted with God, get on good terms with him. know his good qualities. Come into close contact and association with him. To know him thus is to be at peace with him. We must have the real inner experience of divine life in the soul and union with Christ. This is open to everyone who will seek it in God's way.

The other side of religion is the outside. There can be a true outside of religion only when there is a true inside religion. James defines the outside of religion by saying,

"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world" (James 1:27)

—a pure and holy inner life, a pure and blameless outer life, devoted to service and helpfulness. This is the religion that is a well-watered land, full of springs and fruitfulness. It is a land of song and cheer and of true blessedness.

This Christian life is the life of the "new song." When the Psalmist looked back upon the "horrible pit" and the "miry clay" out of which the Lord had delivered him he cried,

"He hath put a new song in my mouth" (Ps. 40:3).

The Revelator saw the great host of redeemed souls gathered before the throne of God and he said,

"I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: and they sung as it were a new song before the throne" (Rev. 14:2-3).

In chapter 15:3 we are told the nature of this song,

"And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb."

The song of Moses was the song of Israel's deliverance from Egypt and their enemies after the crossing of the Red Sea. The song of the Lamb is the song of salvation. So the song we sing is a song of deliverance and of salvation. No wonder it is a joyful song!

The song has a special characteristic.

"No man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth" (Rev. 14:3).

This company of people, represented in symbol by the "hundred and forty and four thousand," are all the redeemed of God. The song that could not be learned by others was the song that is learned only by experience, the experience of redemption and salvation through Jesus Christ. It cannot be sung by mere professors of religion, nor by formalists, nor by legalists. It breaks forth only from the hearts of those who are happy and free in Christ.

Isaiah, foreseeing this glorious age of salvation, cried,

"The ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away" (Isa. 35:10).

This is the experience of those who have learned the secret of the singing heart.

E-MAIL FROM BRO. ED SANTOS OF ITALY

Dear Brod Jet,

Greetings! in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I'm so glad to hear from you there in the Philippines. It's been quite a time that you heard of us out here in Italy. The reason is that we don't have an Internet connection and we just have it connected this month. We scarcely have the time to go to Internet shop and drop an email to you there. Our life here is self supporting go to work and still do the household chores.Time runs so fast that we are now two 2 years here in this place and still have a hard time learning their language which is the reason why working is not that easy due to communication gap. But God is so good that He gave me a good job and work in an office and always lift me up and help me confront all my difficulties. Now I'm beginning to get acquainted with the place. I'm so thankful that you always include us in your prayers.I started to browse the daan ng katotohanan blog at the Internet and was really glad to see that the work for the Lord in the Philippines is continuing and I hope that you always have the time to keep us updated. I was bless to know that there is a work now in Samar and brethren in Marinduque are really stepping forward for the Lord. This is for now.

Regards to everybody.

Love,
Brod Eddie & Family

(Gracie Anne Santos)

8TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CHURCH OF GOD IN AURORA PROVINCE

It was held Sept. 9, 2007 at Ditale, Dipaculao, Aurora.

Funeral Service Part IV

Sept. 1, 2007 at Paniqui Memorial Park.

Funeral Service Part III

Sept. 1, 2007 at Paniqui Memorial Park, Paniqui, Tarlac.

Funeral Service Part II

Sept. 1, 2007 at Paniqui, Tarlac.

Pastor VT Luzong's Funeral Service

Sept. 1, 2007 at Paniqui, Tarlac.