News from Africa
From December 2006 until January 2007 the rain was terrible; there were floods, destruction of fields and houses. At this moment we come to view the things that happened before, here in Burundi: dryness which led to the famine and then heavy rain every day. We see that we live at the end of the kingdoms of this world as we read in Matt. 24:7, 12.
Bro. Costantin Mwagalwa
The Burundi Christadelphian Ecclesia
Bre Samuel Mutoo & Kikoma Kihemu Burundi
DSCHANG
An especial welcome to our newly baptised Brethren and Sisters. I would like to tell them that it is the best road that they have chosen, which will bring them happiness at the end through the key, which is prayer. I would also like to thank God for taking care of us and for those that have finished their work, that they may rest in peace. Thanks also to any person who in one way or another helps the Word of God to go round the world; we should keep on with this work. Let us not forget to put into practice prayer and studying the Word of God in daily life. I beg for prayers for my family as some of them are not well at this hard time. Thank you for the book on miracles and the leaflets. I will be very grateful to receive anything as a help on behaviour as my family are not well.
Bro. Bernard Mbouna
MUTENGENE
The Characteristics of love in Christ are:-
1.Love is patient; I can wait for others to grow in their relationship with Christ without getting impatient with them.
2.Love is kind; I try to help people rather than hurting them.
3.Love is not jealous; I do not get jealous of other people's possessions, physical attributes or successes.
4.Love not boast; I do not feel the need to remind people of my own gifts or successes.
5.Love is not arrogant; I do not insult those who do not have as much as i do.
6.Love is not rude; I am courteous.
7.Love is not quick tempered; I do not get angry or get my feelings hurt quickly.
8.Love does not rejoice when others suffer; I do not enjoy seeing things go wrong for others.
9.Love is faithful under pressure; I continue to support friends even when others desert me.
10.Love believers the best; I refuse to believe rumours about others.
11.Love hopes in others; I see the potential in others, not their failures.
12.Love never ends; I continue to love people. They can count on me.
Bro. Ebong Brain
The Bible is the word of God but it is not read as expected. People like reading novels, magazines and daily news-papers which contain the activities of the world. Some people attend church service but you can't see them reading the Bible. They depend on their pastor who will read and explain any chapter of the Bible for them. Most of who try to read only read the New Testament. Every word of the Bible is important, no word should be left out. People hold the view that you can't understand the Bible unless you go to a theological school or seminary. I don't think this is true, God does not make only a certain class of people understand His word. When somebody is reading the Bible to you, listen to what they say, but let us be like the Bereans who, when Paul preached to them, the Bible for themselves to see what Paul preached to them was true (Act.17-verse 11). There is a prayer in Psalm 119:18 which says "Open thou mine eyes that i may see wonderous things out of thy law". Let us read with our whole heart regularly. If we must get a degree before we understand the Bible it means the word of God is only for the rich, because getting a degree entails money.
Bro Nicolas Menjuah
Brother Théophile Mwagalwa has asked me to translate this message from French and forward it to you for inclusion in Gospel News. Sis Sonia
Our ecclesias here need help at all levels; Brother David Smith or Brother Steve Weston could tell you about it. Some of our members were even raped by militiamen. They were taken away into the forest by members of the Interahamwe opposition movement from Rwanda. The three of them were raped, and then released a few days later. They are now receiving treatment at a Norwegian Protestant centre. The ecclesia where this took place is Bukavu –Lukananda, in Congo, about 25 km from Bukavu.
Singleness - whether temporally or more long-term, is a privilege rather than the problem many regard it as and Christians can and should enjoy the freedom and responsiblilties that the single life brings. A speaker once said, that to be a widow is pure humiliation. This brings to my mind the time the prophet wanted to describe the desolation of the holy city - Jerusalem - after the fall of Judah. He actually compared it to a widow! 'How doth the city sit solitary, that was full of people! how is she become a widow! she that was great among the nations, and the princess among the provinces; how is she become tributary!' (Lam 1:1). I can remember the very night Valisisnana, departed out of this world in my own hands and how lonely the night was with me in the hospital ward, the sleepless night I experienced then as no other patients nor visitors were around. A lady attendant because of her work, had to be in her office. I was forced to accept the fact of 1Thessalonians 5:18 "In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" . Give thanks for this? A sick brother, unsatisfactory living conditions, being in this mess? My prayer, or should I say thought few minutes before his lonely departure was, ‘You give and take’. If it is your will, then take his life". I understand the stature of loneliness then - being in isolation from the brotherhood, receiving exhortations from them, I got myself embedded in the readings of the pioneer writings and other literature pertaining to our call of the gospel. And I don't think, should we be faithful servants in the Master’s vineyard, anything can separate us from the call we were being called for! We hope for the coming of Christ, the Messiah and strongly believe that the signs in the Middle East will culminate in His coming. (What if He tarries still, 'cause of our friends, colleagues, relations who have not yet received His message?) Whether lonely, in isolation or in an ecclesia, the great commission still binds us to our call. (Mark 16:15).
A Brother
BULIMBO
Here in Kenya we are all very fine, fighting a wonderful fight for our salvation from our Saviour and spreading the Gospel all over the country. I am very grateful for the epistle which I received and this message has developed faith deeply in my heart. We have a total of fifty members in our Ecclesia but due to inadequate capital for the construction of a hall we usually worship and praise God under the mango trees. Relating to this many members have joined other denominations that have got church instruments. I was very much encouraged to receive the copy of Gospel News. This magazine has enabled me to ginger up my faith. The problem which I am facing is that I sent a letter to you but until now I have not received the requested literature to enable our church to remain strong. The books were as follows:- 1. Bible Basics, 2, Why Are We Here? 3. Holy Bible, 4. Where There Is No Doctor. 5. Gospel News, 6. Bible Basics for Moslems. I would be very glad if you would send me these materials. Thank you.
Bro. Emmanuel Bokhebi Joumer
Comment: They were sent sea mail and sometimes takes months to arrive. MH
BUNGOMA
I thank God for His guidance of last year although we were forced with some problems. We need prayers from Brethren and Sisters worldwide for God to open a way to solve such problems which can hinder our spiritual growth. You have given me a homework: instead of sitting free I can go through Gospel News and it is one way of growing in the Word of God.
Bro. Aggrey W. Muyila
I am very proud to send you this epistle informing you that your assistance has made my fellow Brothers at Luuya ecclesia carry on with the work of God easily. Actually the books that you have been sending to us, Bible Basics, has a good message and the true way to the Kingdom of God. I am really interested in studying God’s Word and extending it to those who really need the message. I was baptised on 24.12.2006 at Kabuchai during the Bible School.
Bro. Moses Mzungu
Bro. Moses Mzungu
Bre. Wycliffe Wekesa Wasike and Maina Wabwile
Warmest greetings of love and peace in Christ. Brother I want to pray that God will help you in your effort to arrange for us to continue to receive Gospel News in Kenya and worldwide. As we are waiting for the day of Our Lord Jesus Christ we need to learn more about the Bible. So brother I request the following books – The baptism books ‘Revision’, The human kingdom of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and the Bible. God bless you.
Bro. Maina George Wabwile
CHWELE
Thanks for the books about Jesus and four English Bibles as they are helping us to learn more. We also wish to comment about the publishing of material about circumcision which we are sure will help people understand more about it. Thanks also for your help on the Makhonge’s plot; discussions are taking place regarding the problem. At the moment what our eyes can see and what our ears hear we realise that God is in control in our lives.
Bro. David and Sis. Jacklyne Wanjala
CHERENG’ANI
Thank you for the books you send us, continue sending to us. May God bless you all while doing His work.
The Ecclesia at Chereng’ani: Sis. Lydiah, Sis. Janet, Sis. Agnes, Bro. Koech, Bro. John Vero, Vickie, Eliza and Edith
CHWELE
Thanks for the books about Jesus and four English Bibles as they are helping us to learn more. We also wish to comment about the publishing of material about circumcision which we are sure will help people understand more about it. Thanks also for your help on the Makhonge’s plot; discussions are taking place regarding the problem. At the moment what our eyes can see and what our ears hear we realise that God is in control in our lives.
Bro. David and Sis. Jacklyne Wanjala
Thank you very much for your constant endeavour in spreading the gospel of God and supplying us with very many books and? Bibles which give us strength always to stand steadfast in our Christian lives. Brothers and Sisters here at Makhonge Ecclesia are very grateful for the favour and support you have shown to them in solving its conflicts/problems on the current plot they worship from. Again we cannot forget the love and help given us by sending to us more books. We are really getting the basic knowledge from the Bible.
Bro. Manasseh and Doricus Wamamiti
DAGO
Looking forward to the coming of our dear Lord Jesus Christ who I pray will soon come to redeem the world. In Kenya last year, from October, which used to be a dry spell, we received an unexpected and abnormal rainy season which lasted untill January 2007. But the rains brought many more bad problems than good to Kenyans because they caused many deaths, many crop species on the farms were destroyed and others, which withstood the rain, grew too tall without bearing any fruits. The rains swept many crops, animals and people downstream and many roads and bridges were cut off. Pit latrines were destroyed as well and swept away and as a result many strange diseases followed. Even now many people are still counting their heavy losses. It is as if the area has been hit by war. These, and more, are just clear indicators that our dear Lord may come at the hour we least expect him. We have had a Bible School for two days at Dago Primary School where representatives from Nyanzo North Area participated and we shared many ideas and other things together with those who wanted to know the Truth. The only limitation now facing us as an ecclesia, is finance to hold such Bible Schools at least twice or thrice in a year to make people around know much more about the Truth. Our Sister-wives in the ecclesia are in the business of making reed baskets for sale, but they are not making much profit from the sales. If Brethren and Sisters would like a photograph or a sample of these we would be very glad to send one.
Bro. Raphael Aimo
ISHIARA
Thank you very much for your generous offer. I got about five copies of Bible Companions/Calendars as well as the other very inspiring materials. I distributed the Bible Companions to my friends who were very glad to receive them. I pray that God may open up their minds to read and understand the real meaning of the Scriptures and the gospel of Christ. I look forward to seeing God’s power in increasing the labourers in His vineyard around the area. Present day events are clear evidence that Jesus Christ is coming very soon to restore the Kingdom of Israel and to reign all over all the earth. May God Almighty keep us watching, waiting and worthy to share in his glory in the Kingdom. I was out of the school gate when I was being called; curiously I received a parcel which contained the Bible Basics. After a hand shake from a Catholic priest, with lots of thanks, I went home straight away and opened the parcel to find out that it was from Christadelphian Advancement Trust. Postal costs are very high, above our ability and therefore it was hard to communicate about the pleasure I felt from your reply.
Sis. Joy Aphaxard
I am fine, together with the rest of the family members and am much awaiting his return in the hope of Israel, which all of us “Christadelphians” are awaiting. We know none of us is perfect, we always seek forgiveness from God through Jesus, being washed in his blood which was poured out on the cross for remission of sins to all human kind who accept him. With many challenges overcome on my side I remember my dearest close friend, Jesus, for I know whatever the condition, he promised never to leave me. This is the reason I want to point out to all Christadelphians Psalm 23:-
THE SHEPHERD’S PSALM
The Lord’s my shepherd. He will see
That in green fields I lie,
And by quiet waters He will lead
His sheep. We shall go by
The path called ‘Righteousness’, and if
We reach a shadowed place,
I will not be afraid of harm,
For still I see his face.
His shepherd’s staff will comfort me,
And he will surely spread
A meal for me. He fills my cup;
He will anoint my head.
Goodness and mercy follow me,
And I shall always rest
In God’s own house my whole life long,
And may his name be blest!
Here we have the most worrying and not understood question to many people of the world:- where will the Kingdom of God be? heaven or on earth? Many people understand very well that the Kingdom will be on earth but because of their ignorance they are all lost they lack of understanding. Another question is, will the earth be destroyed during the last days? The earth will not perish but the people on it will not be fit for everlasting life and many things which make our lives difficult in this corrupt world will also be destroyed. During the times of Noah we know that God punished the people but not the earth itself. If I recall Matt. 5:5 “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” If the earth was to be destroyed, then this verse could not have been quoted. Brothers and Sisters, we cannot say that the Kingdom will be in heaven but it will be on earth for I know all Christadelphians are waiting for Christ’s return, We remember the disciples, during the ascension of Jesus, were told “…this same Jesus shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven” Acts 2:11. Finally I would like to request for four Bible Basics. May Almighty God keep you in good health.
Sis. Caroline K. Aphaxard
KIBIOEZI
Kibioezi has four members who are Christadelphians. They would like to receive Gospel News. We would like to keep in touch with our brothers and sisters in the world so that they can help us in the Word, and work of the Truth, because Christ is the King. We need to live now as though we are already in the Kingdom. Let us try our hardest to do only what is pleasing to God. Let us keep very near to God in prayers and reading and thinking about his Word. The time to serve God is “Today”. The future is in God’s hand. May He help us to live today for him so that we will be a part of His future.
Bro. Moses Ali Mnyasi Kassim
KOBUJOI MIWANI
I have been keeping fine and in good health but ecclesial duties have been pressing on me on top of mundane day-to-day jobs. Currently I am a member of the Miwani meeting. We all thank our Heavenly Father for the blessing that after many years of being in isolation I can now enjoy the company and encouragement of those of like precious faith in the household of the living God. I admire the zeal the first century believers (Christians) had for the Word of God. At times I wish I had lived in their time. God’s plan is for me to live in the 21st century and to witness for Him in the best way as the 1st century Christians did. Circumstances then and now vary in many ways though. In Acts 4:32 we read of the multitude of believers that were of one heart and one soul … and that they all possessed things in common. To be of one heart alludes to the fact that they were like-minded. They had the mind (spirit) of Christ. “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phil.2:5). In this state of one-mindedness there was great joy amongst the believers because they were able to share their possessions and so none lacked (Acts 4:34,35). But , alas, a certain man named Ananias with Sapphira his wife (Acts 5:1) had a different heart. They had conceived in their heart to lie to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3,4). Lessons for we 21st century believers – are we ourselves guilty of lying to our Brethren or Sisters over our personal situations in a bid to defraud them? Are we?
Bro. Geoffrey Chirchir
LOITOKTOK
We cannot provide any financial support to the Gospel News but pray always for all who contribute to see that this Magazine reaches as many people as possible. Thanks for the continued supply of Christian literature to me.
How happy I was to receive your letter and to hear and know that 2007 is 40 years after Jerusalem was freed from Moslem and to know more about the signs of the times. Gospel News keeps us in contact with Brothers and Sisters all over the world. I also am trying to earn a living and spread the gospel in many places using painting with a hope that the Master will return before the end of this year. I have to say thank you to Brother Leon and Sister Shuker for their tireless effort to answer these very important Bible questions (i.e. where did Elijah go after he was taken by a whirlwind? The book of Hebrews and Chronicles answered those questions.
Bro. Peter Thyo Kariyki
MAKHONGE
We had the privilege of attending a Western Progressive Meeting organised by area representatives. It was interesting to hear the reports from ecclesias being read by the elders. Enclosed is a copy of Makhonge ecclesial report. We certainly appreciate the great work you are doing and the help you have given to us for a long time.
MAKHONGE ECCLESIAL REPORT 2007
Makhonge Ecclesia is about 300 metres from the market. We meet on CBM temporary plot/hall.
Sunday School starts at 8.30.a.m. to 9 a.m. and Memorial Service 9.30.a.m. to 11.30.a.m.
There are 32 baptised Brothers and Sisters – 24 active members, eight irregular/working members, 10 friends of which five are ready
for interview for baptism. We request the office to arrange for interviews. Other ecclesial activities include a Sisters’ group who meet on Wednesday afternoons for Bible studies, health education and welfare visits. Youth projects include sawing timber for furniture making and farming – Growing of a balanced diet.
Bro. Manasseh and Sister Doricus Wamamiti
MARALOL
I am very happy and thankful for Gospel News and leaflets concerning signs of the times which I received. My family are fine, except that I am still ill and doing exercises and taking treatment. I believe God will do the recovery and I will walk. I request the following books for encouragement: “Where Women Have No Doctor” and “Wrested Scriptures”, God willing. My wife Judine passes you warm greetings in sharing the Truth, may God bless you and keep you well with long life. The signs of the times show clearly that the coming of our absent Master, even Jesus Christ, is very near, so it is our part to be always ready.
Bro. Joseph Opiyo Nuani
Bro. Manasseh Wamamiti and Bro. David Wanjala cutting timber, Dec. 2006, a project that generates income for daily bread for the youths in the ecclesia.
MOMBASA
THE DEVIL AND THE BODY OF MOSES
Michael, the archangel, when contending with the devil, he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation. (Jude 1:9). What devil was it? If this is your question, there are two incidents in Scriptural history to which it may allude and Jude refers to it as a thing known. There is first, the “scene” exhibited to Zechariah the prophet (Zech. 3:1-5) in which the adversaries of Israel appear, by one of their number, in the presence of the angel and Joshua the high priest. Satan (margin, an adversary) standing at his right hand to resist him, and the Lord (that is the angel) said “The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan”. A reference to Ezra 4:14 will show the nature of the opposition brought against Joshua and his coadjutors, at that time. If this is what Jude refers to (and the identity of the words imputed to the angel would seem to show it), then the “Body of Moses” was the body politic of Israel, which was the body of Moses in the same sense as the Church is “the body of Christ”. (Col.1:18, Eph.5.23, 1 Cor.10:17 and 12:12), and the devil would be the adversary that stood up against Israel to frustrate their re-organisation, represented by the individual who appeared in the company of Joshua. For, it is recorded that Moses died and the Lord “buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, over against Beth-peor: BUT NO MAN KNOWETH OF HIS SEPULCHRE UNTO THIS DAY.” Also please can you favour me with the contact of Bro. John W. Coles, he was my tutor, and after some time (10 years ago I walked away (resigned) from fellowship and now I am back, and welcomed at the Lord’s table. I belong to Mombasa Ecclesia. I should also thank Bro. Charles French of Australia for his encouragement during this period. I read your book, Bible Basics, and answered all the questions therein. God willing we shall be responding and if the Kingdom shall be restored soon let us meet at God’s judgment seat to receive what is due to us. Lastly pass my loving greetings to all Brothers and Sisters in your Ecclesia.
Bro. Walter Wanyama Wasike
Bro Isaac with Mombasa Ecclesia members after memorial service
MUHURONI
It seems that it is time for all of us Christians to face God and tell Him, “Yes Lord we are with you for where else can we go?” or to say “No Lord, your sayings are too hard and we shall not follow you any longer.” A sense of deep sadness comes over me when I think of how Christians sit on the fence. What is the matter with us? Have we forgotten that he was just the son of a carpenter, himself a tradesman, a strange, itinerant preacher who criss-crossed the tiny country of Palestine, preaching his gospel to the poor. Have we forgotten that from the moment he began preaching he walked in the shadow of death?
Have we forgotten that following him means to take the greatest risk that man can take?. Have we forgotten that following him means living dangerously?It seems that we have spent years trying to eliminate the risk and the danger of his call. It seems that we have cushioned the risk and practically eliminated any and all danger by drawing up a set of moral rules that gives us security instead of holy insecurity: rules that tell our conscience to sleep instead of making it wide awake and ready to undertake the risk of being a Christian. Christ said that if we are not with him we are against him. How do we measure up to this saying of his? Are we really with him? Are we ready to give up father, mother, brother and sister in the sense he means it, to follow his commands? Are we ready today to lay our lives on the line of his law of love with its fantastic dimensions of dispossession and surrender? Do we truly love one another, beginning with ourselves? I wonder how long we can sit on the fence of compromise. God is not mocked!
We have to begin to love one another in the fullest sense of Christ’s teaching, but to do so we must pray. It is only through prayer that one can follow Christ to Golgotha and up onto the other side of the cross and to become free through this ascension. The immense problems of war, of social injustice, of the thousand and one ills that beset our world; these can be solved only if we begin to love one another. When man begins to see love, respect and reverence of Christ in the eyes of another, then he will change and society will change also. Christians must openly declare their allegiance to Christ or their non-allegiance to him. The story of disciples who had to choose is repeating itself today among us. Who do you say that I am? Peter, for the other apostles, openly declared himself for Jesus. On another occasion Christ’s words were too harsh and other disciples also admitted it and left him. It is time we stopped fooling around. If ever there was a time when humanity needed followers of Christ and fewer fence-sitters, that is now.
Bro. George Stanley Nddiege
NAIROBI
I am okay and doing well in the spreading of the Gospel despite the normal difficulties that were encountered by the disciples of Jesus (means of transport and opposition). All in all people are receiving the Truth and are changing their lives. The Gospel must be spread to the ends of the world before Jesus comes. Kenya has been doing well, new Brothers and Sisters are increasing. I thank God for giving me the strength and courage to enlighten many to the truth of the Gospel. I have been of great help to my home ecclesia – Mwandeo Ecclesia. Many have been baptised through my efforts and I also thank Brother Bernard Mutuna. I thank you very much for your support of teaching materials. I therefore kindly request you to continue sending them together with Gospel News. I understand it costs much but all in all God will bless you. Here in Kenya Brothers and Sisters are working hand in hand to see that we are counted worthy to enter into God’s Kingdom. We thank God for everything good and bad knowing that one day we shall celebrate for ever and ever in His everlasting Kingdom. I am longing to see you face to face one day, God willing. I always meditate upon how we can sit together and discuss the Word of God. Nevertheless we shall one day meet, if not at this particular time, then the Kingdom where we shall rejoice together with our Master the Lord Jesus. Lastly I pray for those Brethren and Sisters who are in difficulties and especially those experiencing hostility from the people around them. May God be their Protector and Guide throughout their journey to the Kingdom. I also remember those Brothers and Sisters in Israel where there is war every day. May God bring peace to them and to us all. Amen.
Bro. Gideon Mukeku
NAKURU
Thanks for the books about Israel. I was glad to hear how Duncan and Cindy are producing fruits for the Lord. I wrote to the three Brothers in USA, Canada and Australia in November 2006 so that they can invite me to their countries and accommodate me before I can live on my own, but to date none of them has replied. I am to receive the skilled visa from the migration experts of Australia this year. On 18.1.2007 we spent a day with Brethren David Green and Peter White and had lunch and supper together and discussed the gospel. If you are in possession of the book about Dr. John Thomas, the founder of our movement, please send me a copy. I still lack Bible Basics in Swahili and English for my missionary work.
Bro. Samuel Wanga
NALONDO
Thanks be to God for keeping us alive and for making us communicate again. We appreciate the literature you send us and we are fine in the Lord. God blessed last year’s mission of visiting both Brethren and friends in different parts of Kenya and Uganda when Brethren Vincent Muloboti, Leonard Wafula and Paul Mukenya were baptised. This year’s agenda, besides the major one (which is pushing of the gospel ahead and other smaller ones like transport and communication), is for ways of supporting orphans and the disabled who share with us the wonderful hope of Israel and have only acquired free primary education to join and achieve secondary school education which will pave the way for their employment. Here there are large or small Sunday Schools in almost every ecclesia. We have been using the Bible as the major tool to sharpen and guide them. We shall be extremely happy to have help with our Sunday Schools.
Bro. Nimrod and Caven Masika
The baptism of Bro. Vincent Muloboti at Muungano Ecclesia by Bro. Moses Boter (left) and Bro. Vincent Nyongesa (right).
The Brethren and Sisters who witnessed the baptism of Bro. Vincent Muloboti
NALONDO
I would like to remind you about the books requested from you two months back. One was entitled ‘The Death of the Cross’ and another one ‘The key to Understanding the Bible’. They are available in your library. May you now send them to me? Together with Bro. Nimrod Masika I had the privilege of visiting the Brethren of Kaptama ecclesia at Muungano. We witnessed the baptism of Bro. Vincent Wanjala. The Bible study was very encouraging and we hope to continue with such a programme.
Bro. Laban Sirengo Kisaka
NDHIWA
WHO IS TO BE BAPTIZED?
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations. baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matt.28:19. He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever does not believe will be condemned.” Mark 16:15-16. “When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to other apostles, Brethren, what shall we do? Peter replied, Repent and be baptised, everyone of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all nations who are far off, for all whom the Lord our God will call.” Acts 2:37-39. “Those who accepted his message were baptized and about 3,000 people were added to their number that day.” Acts 2:41. “Crispus, the synagogue ruler and his entire household believed in the Lord and many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized.” Acts 18:8.
WHY ARE WE TO BE BAPTIZED?
“And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized, wash your sins away, calling on his name.” Acts22:16, John 3:3-5, Romans 6:4. “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” Gal.3:27. “At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the River Jordan.” Mark 1:9. “And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the river and Philip baptized him.” Acts 8:38.
AFTER BAPTISM
“Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another and all the more as you see the day approaching.” Heb.10:25, 1 Peter 2:2, 2 Peter 3:18, 1 Cor. 10:12. As for us, we are still waiting for the Master.
Have my greetings in the name of our Master, Christ Jesus. As I am having a reading problem you can give help by giving reading glasses. As I am facing this problem I attended the optician and he told me that my reading glasses specification is + 2.25, so please send me reading glasses of that specification if available and I think I will be in a good position for reading without any trouble.
Sis. Dorine A. Mboya
We here are going on well. The Christadelphians have made my heart feel great by its teachings, putting me close to the glory of God. I would like to beg you one thing, God willing. Is there. any way of enabling Brethren and Sisters to visit other countries? Can you please put me in touch with such a group so that I can be able to go and preach or visit my fellow brothers and sisters in other countries and share God’s Word. I have always prayed to God that one day I can travel, just even to other African countries to see how they are going on with God’s work. In my life, up to now, I like talking with new people and getting new ideas. Let it be my prayer that one day, before I fall asleep I will be able to do this. I would also like to persuade you about the book about the midwives. It will be a good help in my duty at Lambwe Valley dispensary as a chairlady of C.B.D. - community based distribution. I am one of the village midwives and have undergone the family planning programme course and am pleased to advance my knowledge about these issues. The books I have got helped me a great deal with my duties about the ecclesia and the community.
Sis. Emmy Aseyo
I hope that many within our area will wish to join us because of the Truth found in Bible Basics. I would like to inform you that Brethren in Okumbo are progressing well in the Lord, even the health project which is well though there are some areas which need attention.
Bro. Mike Gerald O. Juma
OMBOGA
Well, this is just a note to thank you abundantly for the good you have done to the family and to thank you for connecting me to the weekly exhortations from Bro. John Aldersley in New Zealand. I deeply enjoy his ‘something to chew on’ and it is a great boost to my spiritual growth. I have already written an appreciative note on his work.
Bro. Isaiah Awino
By having a keen look at what is happening globally, we are nearing the Master’s advent. Here in Kenya we had fears of bird flu. Now we have a deadly Rift Valley fever claiming the lives of many carnivores and lastly to mention the global warming, this has caused many effects such as the persistent rains, floods, strong winds etc. The societies we live in are wrecked. Now the permission of gay marriages in some churches. Surely we and the world need redemption soon. Our plans are also coming up to start an ecclesia. We were three i.e. Bre. Nelson Anyals and Joseph Nyipillah but the latter moved to Musoma, Tanzania, to join hands with Sister Monica Achieng. Lastly, but not least, do our namings have any significance nowadays as compared to the Biblical names? I am compelled to ask this question because many so called Christians end up naming their children with names like Saddam, Arthur, Margaryan, Osama. I remain your fellow servant in the Lord’s vineyard and hope to meet you in the Kingdom.
Bro. Lawrence Kowiti
Comment: ‘Lawrence’ comes from the Latin Laurentum, which was a city in Italy known for its laurel trees, taken by some as symbolising eternal life. MH
SINDO
I was baptised into Christ on 21st August 1976 in the city of Nairobi, thirty years ago. I believed the gospel message and was baptised after a true confession of the Truth, to serve the God of Israel, who resurrected our Saviour, Jesus Christ, and gave him immortality. We must stand firm to preach the true gospel and be aware of people who distort the gospel of Christ. The Bible promises us that Jesus will soon come to reign on earth and give us salvation - immortality. We believe the Kingdom will be restored world-wide and the glory of the Father will be done on earth. Peace will be certain. We pray for that Kingdom to come, for God’s will to be done on earth. If we refuse to believe the true gospel message we have lost the hope of living after death.
The work done by CAT. needs prayer and contributions world-wide to enable all of us to witness for the Truth. I am one of the brothers worldwide who supports CAT. in its service to proclaim the gospel message to the whole world. We must not be ashamed to stand firm for the Truth. I have appreciated your service from the year 1999. The gospel message must be obeyed to get salvation or we perish with no hope of being those who will help Christ to rule the earth. Rev. 5:10 – my last word to you. We must remain firm and strong in the Truth until our Lord Jesus Christ takes over the kingdoms of men. “Thy Kingdom come”. The Lord’s prayer will be fulfilled.
Bro. John Owalo Onan
TIRIKI
All we want to do is to explain why we are here, what it is which distinguishes us from others and why we feel we need to stand alone. Everyone knows that there are countless churches in the world, big and small, and when an enquiring person comes upon a fairly small community, with an uncommon name and with a none too long public history behind it, he has a right to be told why that body is here. There are Roman
Catholics, to whom it is unthinkable that a person should ever be anything else; there are members of the big non-Roman churches, who, to a lesser degree, feel similarly about their own faiths. There exist well-established and respectable communities of closely similar standpoints, the Baptists and the Methodists, the United Reformed Church and the Presbyterians, who cannot easily see that there is any justification for the existence of bodies smaller and less respectable than their own. There are numerous evangelical bodies with great enthusiasm within their own camps and yet with profound antagonisms or differences from each other, which divide the remaining ground amongst them.
Bro. Modest Gwademba
TONGAREN
I was very sorry to hear of the falling asleep of Bro. Philip Thompson. Yes, we expect to meet him in the coming Kingdom. I am glad that bro. Trevor has accepted to print Bukusu leaflets and booklets as Bible Basic truths, which will promote the Bible truths in Bukusu language. May God bless him 100 times. Brother, I write this to remind you that many people have requested Bible Basics in Bukusu language. You remember we printed three studies. It could be better if we complete printing Bible Basics in Bukusu language because it’s a marvellous book to have in Bukusu language, the biggest of all. Many people have requested the book, they want to know what is written inside. Due to these people requesting me the book regularly, I ask you to do the copies of the printed studies I gave you, and bind them in books so that you may send them to me for distribution? Even in our ecclesial hall we are expecting to use this book of “Bible Basics” in Bukusu as a text for teaching Bible lessons. About our ecclesial project, we have managed to buy plot and have put a temporary structure of an ecclesial hall for Sunday worship and a tailoring school. Through this textile project, we are expecting many trainees to come for their courses, so we have attached the Bible lessons as a free compulsory course for trainees. This is why we need the completed “Bible Basics” in Bukusu for teaching practice. Also send to us three copies of “Bible Basics” in English and three in Swahili language for school use. May God bless you.
Bro. Sikola Kapa
Tongaren Sunday School Children
Tongaren members in their new ecclesial hall
BALAKA
I received the books you sent including the health book Where Women Have No Doctor”. As you told me in your letter I gave this to the health officer of our community for use. She finds it very helpful and it gives her more knowledge so that the women in our community will be healthier than before. I wish to record my deep thanks for the spiritual encouragement you give me through the books, lectures and letters you send to me. Troubles come to everyone; people experience moments of fear, worry and apprehension as the pattern of their life is disturbed by the unexpected or by events over which they have little or no control. When this happens what do we do? You encouraged me that the immediate and natural reaction should be to turn to God and ask for His help. The scripture abounds with examples of the caring, all-embracing love of God for His people. We have this assurance that he cares for us, that He will never fail nor forsake us and that He will always be with us and above all we have the gift of his peace. When problems arise that threaten the very foundation of our lives, let us turn in the first instance to the living God and ask Him to help us bear our burdens. Jesus said “Come to me all of you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28). He will not let us down but will assist us through our difficulties until we emerge once more into the light which Jesus sheds on our way. “Hear my voice, O God, in my prayers, preserve my life from fear of the enemy” Ps 64:1.
Bro. Edson Makwecha
BOLERO
We are saddened to report the death of Bro Brian Mzikila Gondwe of this ecclesia from the effects of TB. Brian was for many years a deeply committed servant of the Lord and certainly made a name for himself in the area of writing spiritual poems, hymns and letters from Zomba Central Prison. Brian will be sadly missed in the congregation of the servants of the Lord. He was 33 years old.
I pray hard for Tumbuka Bible Basics to exist, as most here speak Tumbuka language and we only have a few Tumbuka Bibles. Please send me the study paper on circumcision froma medical and scriptural point of view. We need Chichewa and English Hymn books and Chichewa Bibles.
Tomorrow waits
Today will have an ending,
Tomorrow starts anew.
Another chance to start again.
When all our plans fell through,
Though sun may set on every scheme,
And fall we often may,
Tomorrow’s sun will rise again,
To show this is your day.
Though days will have an ending,
God will His son be sending
Tomorrow waits for you.
Bro. Lukanga Nyomiro
Greetings in the name of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Thanks for the book entitled Where There Is No Doctor, it arrived safely without any problem. I was happy to read from the Gospel News about a dictionary/Thesaurus which I hope can assist me through my Bible lessons which I have not finished.
Bro. Stuart Gondwe
Bro. Stuart Gondwe
Warmest greetings in the truth we share in the Name of almighty Jesus Christ. With thanks for your letters of the end of November and the current news of the Middle East. Indeed the days are escalating to the end and we should be looking, always because the coming King will judge us with just judgement upon whatever we did. Please keep on writing to me. We are three Brothers here, Luke, Furasani K. and myself. I am taller than Luke and Luke is taller than Furasani K. I am preparing for marriage; I have burnt bricks but resources of cement have become a stumbling-block because I want to build a house containing three bedrooms, bathroom, toilet and kitchen.
Bro. Godwin Banda
DOMASI
Thank you very much for the ten English Bible Basics which I gave out to friends and they are very happy to have them. Some others need books in Chichewa.
Bro. R. Kawonga
JALI
Thank you for the Chichewa Bible Basics and the Middle East update and I am looking forward to having more and more updates concerning the Middle East as we are waiting for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am happy to let you know that I am now working under DAPP Malawi as a TCE Field Officer and I am working within my community. My task is to mobilise, educate and inform people to be aware of the threat of HIV Aids epidemic so it is a door-to-door, inter person mobilisation. Another piece of good news is that I have newly-born twin boys and they and mother are well. More about the keeping of rabbits, they are now breeding well.
Bro. Lucky F. Mbalale
Bro. Lucky F. Mbalale
KASUNGU
Loving greetings in the glorious hope of Israel. Thank you very much for the dictionary sent to us and for your regular remembrance. May God be with you, prosper you and guide you by your way of encouragement in our walk together towards our Heavenly Father’s glorious kingdom soon to be established on this grief-stricken earth. With regard to tapes, they are very good indeed but the problem is that batteries re very
expensive and my tape recorder is not functioning very well nowadays. We don’t have electricity to use but I suggest that if one buys a car battery and has a good tape recorder he can still use them. Of course people have got solar electricity in the villages but for us we still use an oil lamp. At present we are receiving such heavy rain that most of the houses are falling down, but crops in the field are very good despite much rain. As you have rightly said, the farmer can never be sure until the harvest is safely gathered in. We have been blessed with two baptisms; Bre. Reuben Peter Banda and Maxwell Mbewe. Bro. Reuben is in his 60s and Bro. Maxwell is 20 years old. Although my house is very small to be used as a meeting place we are still using it because we are in the rainy season and we cannot pray in the open air. We meet for students’ Bible Course every Saturday from 2pm. and for Bible Class every Wednesday. Our ecclesia wants quality not quantity so we appreciate every book and notes for our instruction.
Bro.Harmony & Sis. Susan Ntchalachala
LILONGWE
I want to request the free Dictionary/Thesaurus, also ‘One Bible Many Churches’ and ‘Do Christians need Priests?’. I belong to Mtenthela Christadelphian Ecclesia and send greetings to all Brothers and Sisters. I am very depressed and suffering at this time but I decided to make this effort to greet you all and say I love you all in Jesus Christ.
Bro. Henderson M. Sosola
LIWONDE
I was very happy to receive this gift of seven books; indeed I am sure they will help me to know the power of God more. Please brother continue to help us because I and my family want to learn more concerning our God and Jesus Christ. Brother, last year you sent me a book heading line - Mfundo Zoonadi Zenizeni Buku Lopatulika. On page 110 – ‘Is the Gift of the Spirit is still working or not?’ When I read this page I undertstand. There is a debate between Bro. John Allfree and Pastor John Lilikas and I would like to know the result of this debate; can you please send it to me? I ask you to provide me with reading glasses please; my size is 2.50.
Bro. Michael Geoffrey Chisanga
MIGOWI
Please send more good magazines, Gospel News and an English and Chichewa Bible. Try to assist me in so many things so that I can grow spiritually. But, Brother, when I have finished my work, even my studies I like to make nursery beds, whereby I grow some vegetables. So I wondered if it is possible for you to send me some vegetable seeds like rape, mustard, onion, cabbage and any type of vegetable which you like to grow in England.
Bro. Maxwell Tebulo
I thank Bro. Keith Lowe for the Bible study he sent us here – I answered all the twelve questions and I have confidence he will tell us the result of our Bible study. I enclose a photo from Brothers who are worshipping here at Nachopwa Christadelphian Church. Nachopwa is the name of the village headman.
Bro. B. Kathumba
Chinani Ecclesia
MWANZA
As to the spiritual growth of our ecclesia, we wish to inform you that there are usually 65 Christians – 50 children; 10 baptised adults, at present; 5 non-baptised adults, totalling 65. We acknowledge receiving six English Bibles and four French Bibles, but, unfortunately, the box containing these books had already been torn – so we would like to know whether there should have been anything else in it. Brother, seeing that many of our brethren do not understand English, we beg you to send us Bibles in French and Swahili, plus some Christadelphian hymn books. Concerning the construction of our hall, we have already finished the building and have covered it with the plastic given us by the Zomba Mission . For lack of straw this plastic is already ruined because of the heat. We are sending you a photo of it as evidence.
Bre. John Abwe and Jafari Amisi
Bro John Abwe’s Family
Mwanza Ecclelsial Building
MZUZU I have written this letter to request a dictionary, written in English and a Bible. I have done this because most of the time I find it very difficult to read and understand some difficult or deep words written in English in some of the Christadelphian books. Here, in our country, Malawi, we do learn English but there is a very big problem in learning. Many of us learn English in schools and the more you go further with education the more you are going to learn English, so it depends on what type of family you come from as regards wealth. So many poor families decide to send their children to primary schools because they are free and when their children pass standard 8 and are going to start form 1 they cannot manage to pay the school fees for them; this is a very big problem to poor families. Now I ask for a dictionary so that I can be assisted in defining some words and identifying them. Many of your books are printed in English which is not our native language, so, as a Christadelphian member since I was baptised in 2005, I learn everything with difficulty just because I love and like knowing the real truth. Secondly, my Bible request, as some books of the gospels need some Bible references and verses with other supporting verses too which mean the same, I don’t have a real reliable Bible because many Bibles we have are cut short, like New Testament only and some Old Testament books are from Genesis to Ruth only and these cannot help at all. I want these two things so that I can be helped because they will stand as shields for everything I read, that can be sent from you. I remain your real Brother in Christ.
Bro. Dutch Mphayah
I would like to share with you the request of the young rich man in the gospel message: “What must I do to enter eternal life?” It seems to me that the man’s enquiry here was a genuine one, for he humbled himself as he seems to me that the man’s enquiry here was a genuine one, for he humbled himself as he approached Jesus unlike others who came to Jesus in order to put him to the test. Next we hear that Jesus loved him. We may assume that he loved him for being very frank. Hence the revelation to him of the one thing he lacked, “Go and sell all that you have and its revenue to be given to the poor.” Just these words showed truly the rich young man’s position – for his face was cast down. We may further assume the young man’s motive behind asking about eternal life. Maybe he wanted that eternal life for the purposes of enjoying his wealth and wealth was the young man’s weak spot. Let us admit here, we all have ‘one thing lacking’! It may be the same as that of our colleague in this story or a different one. And so as we come to realise that we are sinners, let us put ourselves in the positions of Peter’s hearers in Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19. Acts 10:43. Again Paul’s testimony in Acts 22:19. The message in all these verses is one of repentance and believing. If we really do this, the request of our colleague here will be ours and for good reason – of being in the Kingdom of God which is our most desired goal. Your brother in anticipation of Jesus.
Bro. Sylvester Tembo
NSANJE
Greetings in the all saving name of Our Lord Jesus Christ. I am very delighted to inform you that I have received with joy two cartons of different books and booklets and the book about miracles with your informative letter. Could you please send some Bible Reader’s Calendars for distribution to my students here. As you are aware, I have already done Introducing Bible Basics and the Bible Basics correspondence course, and if there is an extra course please send it for me, in order to improve my knowledge as a Bible Basics teacher. It is very nice to hear that you would like to send a free Dictionary/Thesaurus for us who send material to be printed in Gospel News and I will be very happy to receive this in order to understand the English language. We Gospel News readers thank God that our request for this, particularly as another tool, has been understood. Lastly, but not least, here the work of God is getting bigger and bigger. We are still establishing new ecclesias and baptising. The scripture says, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptising them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Matt.28:19). May the Lord bless our united efforts to encourage people to get back to the Bible. Your Brother in the patient waiting for the Master.
Bro. Venancion Malata Phiri
NTCHEU
I am just recovering from malaria and stomach pains and was glad to receive your letter. I wanted to inform you that I have been released from Zomba Central Prison and am now at a home in Ntcheu district working with orphan and vulnerable children, the aged and those who are too ill to work.
Bro. Lytton E. Mkwaila
TENGANI
I like listening to Gospel Scriptures from the radio cassette as I asked in my first letter. I will be very happy if you can send me radio cassettes.
Bro. Elick Biyala
ESPUNGABERA
Brother Moses and Sister Evelyn Dhlakama have been with us and we have been enjoying their exhortation to use whatever means our Father has blessed us with to help in the preaching of His wonderful message of love and compassion and salvation to any who hear. We are also living in perilous times, for the brotherhood needs the assistance of faithful Brethren who can feed us with truth and show to us the visions of glory that help us on our journey Zionwards. We long and yearn for that day to soon come. May the Father’s comfort be with you in the work that you are doing.
Bro. Arone Muchanga
AKURA
I receive Gospel News for which I am indeed very grateful. I have been very ill for two months, but thank God I am now in good condition of health. I must confess that God has done wonders in my life, now that I know He exists. I shall appreciate it very much if you can please send me some pamphlets for distribution and one more Bible Reader’s calendar to be given to a friend who showed interest when he saw the one you sent to me.
Bro. Benjamin O. Akinuli
ENUGU
My aim in writing to you is to tell you all the Lord has done for us and to publish it. Since last year’s CYC three persons have been baptised. In June two Sisters were baptised; they are Sis Nwaka and Sis Chiege Nuaji, of the same father and mother. Bro Emmanuel Iweha, put on the Name of Christ on 2nd December. He had been a friend of mine for over five years. He made a good confession during his interview. All his family are Catholic and his brother is a Rev Father, yet he forsook them. They accused me of causing trouble in their family by bringing another faith. Thank our God for blessing us with three last year. I have heard that there is a book called ‘Where There Is No Doctor’ but I haven’t seen it; where can I get it? Things are going from bad to worse all over the world, especially in Nigeria (2 Tim. 3:13). My advice is that all Brethren and Sisters keep patient because our Lord is coming quickly to set us free. May he come very soon.
Bro. Goddy Nwosu
Bro Emmanual being received into fellowship by Bro Goddy
IKWUEKE OBORO
Group photograph taken beside the Ikwueke Oboro Ecclesia hall. From left to right standing: Bro. Friday E. Umesi, Sis. Grace Enyiogu, Sis. Florance Umesi, Sis. Janet Enyiogu, Sis. Comfort Umesi and Bro. Friday E. Eyiogu. Sitting from left to right: Sis. Victoria and Bro. Chituru Ogbonna.
The newly baptised Brother and Sister are – from
left to right: Bro. Chituru and Sis. Victoria Ogbonna and standing in
the middle is Bro. F.E. Umesi ready to baptise the two.
KADUNA
I pray that God will enrich you bountifully for propagating His Word when our Lord comes, and above all that we all may be worthy to live with Him in His Kingdom. In Gospel News I read about the Bible Basics Manual; please send it to me. I also wish you to send me the book, ‘Where There Is No Doctor’, for the benefit of knowing ailments and cures that we encounter nowadays. This will help me and our ecclesial members as well. All the Bbrethren in Kaduna greet you and I hope to hear from you soon if the Lord tarries.
Bro. Anthony Coker
KAENGESA
Everything made by God is good and is to be used for His glory. If we use all things properly then God’s will is our wish, but if not, then we are against God’s will (1 John 2:15-17). Whatsoever things we do wish, should be centred upon biblical principles. Our wishes should be in line with God’s will and glory.God is always there for us. Christ throughout His life sought God’s will (John 6:38-40). not regarding what we consider suffering. We should do the same, knowing that God does not want us to perish (2 Peter 3:9-15).
Sis. Faustina Mweupe
KASULU
My wife went for the operation; she had a swelling in her belly which troubled her much, but I thank God that my and your prayers to Him were granted. In my last letter I besought you to send me the programme of burying and a programme of praying for children. I begged you to call on us in order to teach us in a workshop. To all I say, do read Psalm 19:12 and, ‘Who are the Christadelphians’? Do read John 15:3-4 and also verse 12. Really love exists.
The Bible tells us that our yes should be yes and our no, no. We can only be thankful for the Truth, the faith is the Truth of things for the future, it is the reality of things that are unseen (Heb 11:1-5; 11:6).
I believe one day we shall be returning to our country, Congo. Hunger and need will vanish, and God will forgive us. We are still refugees.
Bro Albert Akembe
KASULU
Thanks to God I have this opportunity of writing you this letter, the main point of it is to inform you about the change of our Committee which took place . The new Committee is composed of three persons: Chairman, Muli Bin Etulo; Secretary: Iyendya Amsini; Treasurer, Akembe Albert. Please try to spread this message to others in Gospel News. Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of God.
My uncle tried to persuade me many times to go to a church, named ‘Kasanga Fundi’. I did not like to go with him, but one day he was reading his Bible before going to church; when I heard what he was reading I appreciated really what he told me before was true. Because of hearing I was baptised and became a Bible believer. I am now secretary of CBM in Nyamigusu Camp.
Bro. Iyendja Amsini
Bro Iyendja Amsini
KIGOMA
We are very happy to write this letter to you because it is now many days without any communication. This has given me the time to explain the situation in which we are living and us to know your situation. I would like to receive your letters often and books of different kinds in order that I get to know God’s word. I am sure that you will hear us to that end.
Paros Yunus and Machozi Mkangwa
MUSOMA
Grace and peace be with you as always. I am very happy to read from Gospel News about Musoma news which was so good. One Brother from England called David Welch to whom I wrote a letter some three years back could remember me and the name of the children and managed to send a letter to me again which I received today. Is this not great? I will write back to him and I will ask him his email address.
Musoma is doing well and they need Bible reading planners (six if possible). Thank you for the used Bible. I am very happy to read the messages and how the dear Brethren are continuing helping some of the needy souls especially in the refugee camps. I recently went home to take the children back to school, they are all at school at the moment and I’m going to miss them again. I know I will have them again, God willing, when they vocate in August. There’s no problem in our ecclesia at the moment except they do ask most of the time about the ecclesial building, as so many people are interested to join but they don’t understand why we meet in the house. I’m very happy to read more news from Tanzania as it is one country where English is a problem. I really appreciate how some of the Brethren in Tanzania are having such courage to write good English for the readers and copies of the Dictionary are much appreciated..
Sis Monica Achieng
I greet you in Jesus’ name and thanks for your letter which I received a few weeks ago, but I was miserable at your answer of not being able to let me have a mobile phone for I’m in great need of it.
I want to persuade you to represent my request.
Bro Makenga Reveriyano
Ulyankulu Ecclesia
MWANZA
We thank you for sending us copies of Gospel News for a long time. From reading them we have got a lot of encouragement for salvation and how to be ready for Jesus’ return soon. The ecclesia also thanks you for the books which you have sent and we also have need of the following books: ‘How To Grow A Balanced Diet’ and ‘Conservation Farming Methods’. These books will help us to grow some crops and to conserve soil.
Bro. Joctor Rufano
UVINZA
I am still enjoying receiving Gospel News regularly and reading the news from the Brothers and Sisters worldwide. Here at Lugufu 1 ecclesia we enjoyed the visit from Bro Tim Evans and Sis Judith and family (from Southampton UK), Bro Thierry Kabangu (Arusha, Tanzania), and Bro Alinoti (Kigoma, Tanzania). We enjoyed the fellowship and we had a Breaking of Bread together. I send my article, ‘A Real Kingdom’ for Gospel News.
Bro Amnobe Iyingu
UVINZA – LUGUFU 1
Thank you very much for your letter and the enclosed books Miracles by Bro John Bilello and Legalism vs Faith by Bror David Levin and for help in painting our Ecclesial hall, inside walls, all these things help our spiritual growth. We were once again happy to welcome a visit to our ecclesia from Bro Tim Evans and his family from Southampton, UK, accompanied by Bre Thiery Kabangu (Arusha) and Samuel Alinoti (Kigoma), Tanzania.
It was a great delight to have sweet fellowship together and we were comforted by the word of eternal life by Bro Tim while his wife, Sis Judith, dealt with our Sunday School scholars. We broke bread and drank wine in remembrance of the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ in our ecclesial hall combined with the Lugufu 2 ecclesial members. We do thank the CBM for the gift of a bicycle for ecclesial use and other help. On the same occasion we were pleased to receive Bro Innocent Baruani E’Engele from Nairobi ecclesia, Kenya as a visitor to our Ecclesia and we thank him for the word of exhortation. Visiting Brethren and Sisters are especially welcomed to strengthen us in the Truth.
Bro Isidore Mwibeleca
Butacho Sunday school
KAMPALA
I hope you are keeping well, as for me I am fine. A certain Brother wrote an exhortation which touched my heart and I would like to share it with you. Since it is God who determines the outcome of every situation, the important thing is not to have the best and strongest human allies, but to side with God, to get right with Him. There are times when God allows suffering for a purpose and He brings good out of it, for the individual himself and all he comes into contact with. Suffering strengthens our faith in Jesus. When we suffer we learn many things about ourselves. Suffering is then for a good purpose since we learn to be more patient and to trust in God. The experience of suffering is God’s means of testing our trust in Him, perfecting our character and preparing us for the greater purpose He has in store for those who are faithful. Suffering is the means that God will use to teach mankind the lesson that we are powerless to help ourselves.
A Sister
KASESE
My responsibility is to train the Sunday School children and teach them some new songs about the Word of God and I like music very much in my life. I have been a Sister for one year. I am now old and I still need your support for spiritual growth.
Sis. Janet Kimekeke
KISINGA
We are here co-operating with Bro. Remegio for the spiritual growth of Kisinga ecclesia. May you and all Brothers around the world pray for us that the Lord may use us, that our light may shine to all.
Bro. Justus Masereta
A Christian is one who follows the example of Christ. In John’s letter he says, “For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother” (1 John 4:20-21). We must not be misled – if we or others do not follow the example of Christ we are not true Christians. God’s eyes are too open for us to hide anything from Him – He sees all the corners at the same time. He will reward us according to how we follow Christ’s example.
Bro. Remegio Mwanamwolho
Bro. Remegio preparing a notice board.
LULU ISLAND
Favouritism has been a great problem in Uganda for so many years especially on the side of government departments and public service. Many officials have been considering special people from a particular region, tribe and family background before a person could be considered for any government post, this should not be Our dear Brother James in the Bible says that as believers and Christians, we should not to do this (James 2:1-4 and 8-11).
As believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, do not show favouritism. “Suppose a man comes into your meeting hall wearing a gold ring and fine clothes and a poor man comes in shabby clothes, if you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, ‘Here is a good seat for you’, but say to the poor man, ‘Here you are, stand here or sit on the floor by my feet’, have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
If you really keep the royal law found in the scripture, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’, you are doing right, but if you show favouritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as law-breakers. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. For he who said, ‘Do not commit adultery’, also said, ‘Do not murder’. If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a law-breaker”.
Showing favouritism is when we treat one person better than another. There are many ways by which we can show favouritism and there are many reasons for doing so. James tells us that it is wrong to view one above another because of his nationality, age, tribe, wealth, position or any other reason. Matthew 23:11 also tells us about the dangers of showing favouritism: “But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant.” It is a surprise to some people who consider others inferior to them that at some time the inferior ones will become superior and the greater shall be brought low? If we treat one Brother better than another because he is from the same tribe, and treat another Brother harshly because he is from a different tribe, we sin by judging between our Brothers. John 13:13-17 tells us the same and informs us that Jesus, our Brother, never showed favour to any person but treated everybody equally. This is seen in v.14 where we read about Jesus having washed the feet of his disciples. We need to follow this example for if we desire to inherit the eternal life to come (Romans 14:10, Matt.7:1-2). We should treat all our Brothers and Sisters equally, thinking of them as better than ourselves.
Bro. Robert Ochieng
CHINSALI
I enjoy reading Gospel News because it sheds light on what is happening in other ecclesias all round the world, especially how the good news is being disseminated throughout the world by the Christadelphians. This is fantastic! May the Lord God bless this life-giving work. After having helped in the formation of three ecclesias in Chinsali District, I am now helping the students at Malangura – eight of them. Their keen interest has encouraged me and it is my hope that, God willing, we might have another group embracing the true doctrines of the Bible. Thank you for the tapes which we have put to good use.
Bro. Brighton Chiluba
I hope and trust that you are doing fine in the hope of Israel which we share. I am glad to tell you that I have received your letter, together with Bible Basics for Moslems. I received it late due to the problem I have in terms of transport, since I live in a remote place. The information you wrote to me is very interesting and encouraging.
Communication is one of the most important elements in our daily lives. Without it man cannot develop. Alas live communication is very expensive and only available to the rich. This is one reason why the rich have taken advantage of the poor. Now, communication with God is free. It doesn’t matter what kind of language you speak, but what matters more is to confess our sins and seek our Lord Jesus Christ as our Mediator between us and God. God does not discriminate. That is why if we read Matthew 7: 7-11 we will find that Jesus is encouraging us a great deal. So the only communication which matters is that which is spiritual.
Bro. Goodwell Mubanga
I would like to thank Matero ecclesia for the help they gave in burying my father, Bro. Jack Bowa, after his death in Lusaka. It was a great work. May our Heavenly Father bless them abundantly and give them encouragement in Christ.
Sis. Justina Bowa
My house has burned with everything in it. Brother, I’m suffering so much with my family – I am left with nothing. The house caught fire when we were away with the entire family. We went out to work on the farm. Therefore, will you kindly send me books, together with a Bible, as these were all burnt.
Bro. Edward Mutale
FRINGILLA
Accept my greetings in the faith and the hope we have in our Lord. Recently I was struck by miseries: I had my house burnt and everything was destroyed. Some two months later my daughter was bitten by a dog. These miseries have disturbed my living; however, I have put all these things in the hands of God because if we read Isaiah 45:7 we are instructed. Therefore we need to look to Him and humble ourselves. Brothers and Sisters, please pray for me so that one day I might have contentment as I used to have. Having lost my literature in the fire, I would like to request some: ‘Where There Is No Doctor’, and a New International Version Bible, cross reference edition. I like this version and am very much in need of it. I would also like ‘Elpis Israel’, amongst other books. Lastly I would like to encourage and commend the wonderful work being done in printing the books and other materials; please continue, God will reward you. I conclude my writing with the Christadelphian Hymn No. 10 in Bemba (‘There’s a Land That is Fairer’).
Bro. Ignatius Chilekwa
KABOMPO
The Bible warns those Brothers and Sisters who are leaving the Truth and joining other churches. The Bible warns us in 2 Tim 4:4 “the time will come when … they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned to fables.” We pray we may all grow and build each other up in the Truth. All of us need to be strong in the Word and to follow the Truth in the Bible; to bring many to Christ by preaching to those who have not heard the word of God, at the Sombo Guest House normally used when our Brothers and Sisters visit Kabompo from the UK with Zambian brethren. Bro. Amos Chkanda
On the translation I’m trying to do, I hope to get it printed into our local language since we are getting a lot of computers here. I will tell you about any developments, because I have learnt that the book will help my community here.
Bro. Charles Muhupu
KABWE
I started studying the Christadelphian Bible Correspondence Courses in the 1980s and I was baptised on 31st July 2002. Currently I am studying with Bro. Blackstone who is a very good tutor and has helped me greatly since I became a Brother. I was very glad to receive Where There is No Doctor. Please continue sending Gospel News and other literature which may be available. I was also pleased to receive a book about the Principles of Planning Vegetable Production.
Bro. Greenwell Kunda
Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, Brother, have refreshed my heart.
Bro. Maybin Bwalya
Bro Amos standing behind the CBM Vehicle the CBM Visitors use
KAFUE
Be on time! Do you procrastinate and rush around at the last minute? Do you over-schedule yourself, trying to do too many things in too short a period of time? The principle given in Ecclesiastes 3:1 can prove to be helpful: “For everything there is an appointed time.” Having an appointed time for things allows you to do them in an orderly manner. First, list all the things you need to do. Next, follow the principle given in Philippians 1:10, “make sure of the more important things.” Yes, prioritise: what absolutely has to be done. What are the things that can safely be put off for later? Finally, figure out how much time you need to get things done and when you can realistically do them, so avoiding scheduling too much in too little time.
Bro. Lotson Kayuns
KALOMO
Thank you for the papers you sent and all the news, plus tapes etc. I delight in reading about the present happenings, so please if you can send me more of these papers from time to time. I need more preaching materials for when I go out on a mission trip, as more and more people have shown interest in the Christadelphian doctrinal message, for it is biblically centred – although we face a lot of opposition from other churches. But this will never discourage us from preaching, for we are baptised for the same and sent to do the same by our Master. Attached is the programme for my short trip to visit the students of both English and Tonga lessons. I am very glad to have received Wrested Scriptures by Ron Abel, this will help me to answer questions on various topics. Yes, the 40 lessons in English have been translated into Tonga and many more students have liked the lessons and some have already progressed to lesson 15. More are needed, but I hope Kelly of Kafue has enough to meet the demand. I have today written to him to include more names to his list. So, please, if anyone has something helpful for preaching to the students, please request some on my behalf. May the Lord bless His word, and it is my prayer that once in a while you pay us a visit in Zambia: we only see you in the Gospel News, but wish for your presence so that you encourage us physically..
At least the Gospel is now moving towards other people whose interest is to know the Truth, but had no means of doing so, not having had schooling. All the same we give thanks to our Lord for His goodness towards us in His word. Just like the Gospel News, it contains vital news for all who love reading God’s Word. It encourages, builds, strengthens, corrects, guides, moulds, shapes, sharpens, brightens, makes one think, choose, follow and act, etc. I and my family say, Continue to send us Gospel News.
Bro. Harry Hambula
KAPIRI
The Bible tells us that after the day of Pentecost and when the apostles had received the Holy Spirit, they went forth preaching the Gospel everywhere. Those who believed were baptised and they devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. They even went further, to sell their possessions and redistribute to the needy (Acts 2:42-47). We are told they had everything in common. The onlookers, both Jews and Gentiles, exclaimed, “See how they love one another.”
Imagine the quality of love that the apostles and these early believers portrayed which even amazed the non-believers. The question is, does this kind of love exist today in our ecclesias? The Bible challenges us that as believers blessed with the Truth, we have the gift to display such love in our ecclesias. It should all start with an individual: as individuals in our homes, even before we leave the door to meet our Brothers and Sisters, we should examine our conscience as to how we will serve the ecclesia each day. Love and service in the ecclesia is an unending cycle: Brother towards Brother, Sister towards another Sister, Brother towards a Sister and vice versa. At the end the entire ecclesia will be filled with admired love and those around us will surely say, “See how they love one another.” They certainly would be attracted to our faith, hope and truth.
It is common in ecclesias to find differences between one Brother and another, one Sister against another and so on. This is by virtue of being human with weak flesh, which has its own desires, and also due to differing backgrounds and personalities. However, as Brethren assembled together, this should not be the case. Listen to what Peter had to say, “Having purified your soul by your obedience to the Truth for a sincere Brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart” (1 Peter 1:22). The apostle Paul also says, “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil, hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honour” (Rom 12:9-10).
Bro. Mike Mweene
KASAMA
We all eagerly wait for the Lord’s second advent in our time. It is very worthwhile, though, to imagine how prepared we are to receive the Master. Many prophecies are finding fulfilment in all of us but many people are still in incredible apostasy. However, this does not and won’t delay Jesus’ return even if there are fifty in the Truth, like the instances with Noah and Lot. May the Lord God increase the number of workers for His harvest that His chosen ones may be gathered in. The NIV is helping me with some historical religious discoveries I would not have learnt from my local school history. It contains very good commentary notes, though one has to be guided by the Truth’s doctrinal concepts as some comments derive their root from apostate Christendom, e.g. the Trinity and deity of Jesus and evil spirits.
Please never lose heart when you hear disturbing news from us, for sometimes we write in unfavourable circumstances due to our living conditions, sometimes you may wonder when you hear from WHO reports concerning death tolls due to malaria and cholera, - preventable diseases. In villages, people’s living conditions are difficult to describe. It is common in some remote African areas to share a pool of water with cattle, hyenas and dogs in dry seasons because of water scarcity. Living with many flies, cockroaches and mosquitoes would not be a strange sight or experience in countries like Tanzania, Malawi and Zambia. Donor funds through Governments can’t reach the targeted areas and important medicines and facilities like mosquito nets received from donors are shared amongst the medical staff and later sold at such prices that many cannot afford. For example, a mosquito net is supposed to be sold at K3,000 at hospitals and health centres ($0.50) but it is found in medical staff’s drug stores as high as K60,000! The former is the official Government price at a subsidised level.
Bro. Boniface Simpanzye
KASAKA
I am sending my great gratitude for sending me Gospel News. I used to be in so many churches here in Zambia looking for the truth and sound doctrine. But when I came across the Bible Course and started studying it, I found it to be so interesting that I completed it through my tutor, Sis Sheila Mothersdill of UK and got baptised on 17th June 2000.
Now my request is: Would it not be possible for this straightforward doctrine to be put on TV here in Zambia when the Linkmen visit us, for others to enjoy the gospel we enjoy as it is written in Matthew 5:14-16. Most Brothers here have tried their best to send the message all over the country, but it seems not to be enough.
I am appealing to Brethren and Sisters worldwide who have received sound doctrine, to fully follow the steps our Lord Jesus did when he was here on earth. We should not merely talk about the gospel but try by all means to practice what we read in the Bible, just as it is stated in James 1:19-26. By so doing I think we may be able to convince other people that we have a good doctrine and practice.
Bro Adams Nsamu
LUSAKA
I do appreciate that the Gospel literature that you send me is helping to lead me to salvation. Please continue, for my own betterment as well as others.
Thank you so much also for briefing me about the tension in the Middle East which is one of the biggest signs of Jesus’ second coming. I must tell you that Armageddon is very interesting to me, because as I am reading this book I see the whole scenario unfolding in a well simplified explanation. On this one I am very well informed and I pray that at an appointed time God will send Jesus to establish the glorious Kingdom here on earth.
Bro. Jaxon Kalumba (Jnr.)
Thank you very much for the study materials I received. Here I am doing well at school; even though some things seem to be hard, I put all my faith in God that one day everything will be well. As I mentioned earlier, there are challenges that I’m facing, but I am able to stand, and some of my friends are accepting literature which I offer them. I would like you to send me more literature for distribution to my class-mates and other interested pupils.
Bro. Stephen Siamabi
I am only physically fine because I can move and do things, but the emotional part of me can only be healed by God, who allowed my Mum to fall asleep in Christ. I thank God for the nightly sleep He blesses me with, but I expect to see her every day when I wake and find myself then feeling her absence. I first lost my young dog, a dog like my kid brother, and to add to that pain I also lost my Mum. It hurts so much that I at times fail to know what to think or do. My Mum willingly served God and that’s one thing I can’t forget. The two dogs we’re keeping seem to accept that she’s nowhere in the house, though my Mum would embrace them and treat them like her grandchildren. If making people know the true Gospel is what will make Jesus come, then I do my best so that he can come and resurrect my Mum. The thought of eternally living with her in an immortal state gives me so much comfort and peace. The day she’ll be resurrected will be the day my dream comes true. Doing the Bible readings is something I love to do, it’s what we used to do with Mum and it’s what we continued doing when she was resurrected in my dreams. I hope the time comes soon when I’ll be able to write about Mum without tears in my eyes.
I just completed my ABMA Diploma 1 (Clearing & Forwarding, Cargo Storage, Warehousing, Customs Declaration, Dissertation and Office Practice). God willing, I hope to do 2 and Advanced 3 in 2007 or later, because it’s expensive. College life takes much of my time, studying, doing assignments and researching from different Companies. The weekend is one thing I looked forward to after a busy week, coming back to our Christian (Christ-like) life. I hope we will all be able to do more in reaching out to the world with the Gospel message. We only need to pray for strength from God, unite in what we ought to do and do it with dedication. I pray that we may have more fun in what we ought to do and just enjoy being Christians. Jesus Christ was a strong, dedicated kind of person and I feel his followers should try to be like him.
Sis. Bervelyn Tembo
MAZABUKA
It was uplifting to hear from you. I was happy to read news of different Brethren around the world in Gospel News, as we are all members of the same body of Christ. Let me tell you a little about myself. I am an orphan and live with two lovely sisters who I share my life with. I joined the Christadelphian community on 26th March 2006 by full immersion in water. I have found the love and care of Christ in the Christadelphian faith. Since the day I was baptised I have been an active member of the ecclesia. I also serve as Secretary of Mazabuka ecclesia. My tutor is a German Brother based in Wirral, UK, named Bro Gunter Rudolph. He is a good tutor and very caring to me and I love him so much. He gives me advice for this life and peace of mind, and I know the love of God whenever he writes to me. If you have other books like Legalism v. Faith, Christian Marriage, Where there is no Doctor, and Calendars I would appreciate them. I long to see Jesus soon and when he comes, he will bring only the good news for all who believe in him.
Bro. Gideon Hankomone
MUFULIRA
I last wrote to you when I was a student requesting Bible Basics. Now I’m very happy to inform you that I am a baptised Brother. Enclosed is a photo of my baptism. I’m glad that my name is now included on the Gospel News list. May our gracious Father be with you as we keep on praying for the wonderful work you are doing in His service. Will you please send my name and address to the producers of Logos magazine, as I wish to receive this magazine if possible.
Bro. Gibson Mulenga
I am very glad to say to everybody that Sister Sandra Chabala and I Brother Geoffrey Chabala both of Mufulira ecclesia, were married on 5th November 2006 and would like to extend our appreciation to the Brethren and Sisters in the truth across the world for the spiritual and material support during our wedding ceremony. It was an awesome experience, marvellous to all who attended and inspiring to all fellow youths who are contemplating doing the same.
We would like to encourage all the youth to set perimeters for partners within our faith. This is the foundation of the good life one can ever think of because it typifies the special relationship between the Lord Jesus Christ and His people, which is the ecclesia.
Bro. Geoffrey Chabala
Baptism of Bro. Gibson Mulenga, Bro. Kombe Dennis on his right and Bro. Joseph Lumuna to his left.
MUSHOTA Thank you for your letter and contents, may you continue to help us in this way. We are well, Brother John Mwewa (the blind Brother), myself and all students. Please continue to send me Gospel News. Pass my warm greetings to your ecclesia please, and to Bro. John Palmer my Tutor. Please pray for my wife who is waiting for baptism.
Bro Titus Mwansa
Bro. Titus’ wife and children, Titus (Jr.) and Webster Kabwe Mwansa
Titus Mwansa Jr their first born gift of God
NDOLA
I am writing to acknowledge receipt of the Test answers for student Reuben Kubama. Reuben has given very impressive answers to all the questions. In my view he is a suitable candidate for baptismal interview if he wants to put on the Saving Name of our Lord. I have written to him so that he attends one of our Sunday meetings in order to discuss further issues pertaining to his Bible course and, if possible, plan the way forward.
Thank you very much for enclosing notes on Circumcision, Resurrection and Judgement, PDE., GPL and Are You in the right Church? which contain important up-to-date spiritual materials.
Bro. Dennis C. Kombe
I am always happy to read the Gospel News and I am encouraged with the articles from Brothers and Sisters. Please do not weary of supporting the magazine – it is very pleasing to read different ideas and messages of encouragement to spiritual growth. I like reading the books, but with my eye problem it is made difficult: I hope you received my prescription for reading glasses and will be able to help me. With this letter I enclose a photo of myself with Bro. James Mwanza. I pray that the Lord will be with you all as we await the coming Kingdom. Even so come, Lord Jesus.
Bro. Harris N. Mulongesha
Bro. Harris Mulongesha with Bro. James Mwanza (right)
TOUR OF NORTH WEST
First and foremost, many thanks to our Linkman Bro. David Nicholls for calling and remembering me to be part of this tour in the Province. I joined them in Solwezi on the Monday afternoon, and it was a very good day. There were so many students who attended the Bible meeting, where I found the President was our Linkman Bro. David and he was assisted by Bro Arnold Kunda of Lusaka ecclesia; Sister Lynda Nicholls was also there. I thank Bro. David for giving me the chance to translate from English Lunda Kikaonde and Luvale and am glad to say it went well. After two days we left for Kabompo district: on our way we had a stop-over at Mufumbwe to see a student for two hours. Thanks be to the Lord that it went well. After seeing our student we left for Kabompo and on arrival found Bro. Muhupu and other Brothers who welcomed us; the Bible Study there was well attended. We stayed in Kabompo for three days, then left for Zambezi district, where we stayed for two nights before leaving for Kabompo. Once more on our way back to Solwezi from Kabompo we stopped at Mufumbwe to see our student, who we were pleased to meet again. We then left for Solwezi, spent a night there and then left for the Copper Belt. In Mufulira we had a Bible Study presentation by Bro. Peter Osborne of Australia. I pray that the Lord God will be with them all, and if it is His will we shall meet them again later this year.
Bro. Harris N. Mulongesha
PEMBA
It was so wonderful to hear from you about issues of the Middle East, sending Gospel News and other material. We really have to focus our attention on these problems around us, as they all show us how near the Lord is. We should believe that with these problems, whatever work is being done with regard to them will be repaid when that time comes, but this cannot happen overnight.
Most wonderful of all is that many are coming to understand and know the truth about these things. A harvest of men presses more on my mind, especially now with available literature, that we should share the good news with others. We are all being urged to be fishers of men as Peter was called, and I am sure God’s power will be with His people – therefore let’s all reach out.
The pre-school pilot project is doing fine, although we still have a pressing problem of a lack of learning/teaching materials. It is wonderful now at least 20 children are in uniforms, and I enclose a photo of them. We are now using this same room for e cclesial fellowship, Bible study and Sunday School, and CBM has now started paying rentals, which is much appreciated. Soon we hope to open a small ecclesial library.
Bro. Wilfred Chibomba
Bro. Wilfred with the pre-school class
I was very happy to hear that you have already printed up to part seven of the Tonga translation of ‘Introducing Bible Basics’; not only that, but also to hear that you have already mailed some finished, printed material which I hope to receive shortly. Surely the signs and events recorded in Micah 7:15 and the Gospel of Luke 21:32 remind us of the hope we have for the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ to restore peace and joy in this world. We praise the Lord that we have had heavy rain, and if this continues, we may expect a good harvest. There is sad news that in other parts of Zambia - Western, Northern and Eastern Provinces - they experienced crop damage caused by flooding.
Regarding the guide to the CBM (UK) Welfare Fund for Brothers and Sisters in time of need, it is now very good that the CBM has made things clear to everyone, especially those who live in poor countries like Africa. Some requests were unfortunately not genuine. Here I wish to comment on a few things. We have to consider the Brothers and Sisters who are currently still in isolation and in small ecclesias, for, as you know, most of the countries in Africa are still trying to develop. So for one to live a better life you need to be able to join with groups working together in order to have access to a Project Income Generating Fund to have help from lending Institutions. Without the ability to do that I am afraid the Brothers and Sisters in small ecclesias and in isolation areas may continue to live a miserable life.
Bro. Joseph Mulawo
SLAMU
I am one of the baptised members of the Christadelphians who was baptised in Chipata in 1995 by Bro. Graham Mitchell. Of late I have been moving too much, but now I am stationed in Petanke. I therefore wish to inform you that all correspondence to me should be sent to my current address (Zambia Wildlife Authority, Slamu, Petanke Sector, Box 560300, Petanke, Zambia.)
Bro. Davis Mwanza
CHEGUTU
Thank you very much for sending me Gospel News and calendars. Thanks again for publishing my article; I hope it will go a long way in showing others the way to the Truth. I was wondering if you could please send me some material for a Sisters’ Class. As an elder Sister I am willing to teach my younger Sisters. I hope we will get something. We look forward to the coming of our Lord as we spread the word.
Sis Hlezipi Phiri
Thank you for your letter which came just after I had been having discussions on the Middle East with my cousin Reuben. Right now in Zimbabwe we have not received enough rainfall in all districts and the plants that we planted at the start of the rain season are wilting. This is the result of global warming.
Thank you very much for the book ‘Miracles’ and the literature that you sent. Could you, if possible, literature on Jehovah’s Witnesses. We keep strong as we look forward to the coming of the Lord.
Richard Phiri
I would like to let you know that I have been meeting with Harare Ecclesia, but I’m no longer staying in Harare, I have moved. I am now in Darwandale Area in farms. I have a small plot where I am staying. So I’m in isolation but sometimes I visit Chegutu where I meet some Brethren and I have fellowship with them.
Please, if it is possible, could you send me some pamphlets to distribute in my area as I share the word of God, and a Bible with simple English. In my area, there are those who call themselves like the apostles and wear white garments. They are faith healers, and many people go to them because of the miracles they claim to perform. They don’t read the Bible. They say they have the Holy Spirit which guides them to speak the word and they are strong on keeping the ten commandments. They do not teach what Jesus and the apostles taught, so they do not know the truth in God’s word.
I shall be glad if you will send me what I have mentioned above and a Shona Bible Basics, it will be helpful for me to teach some about the truth, as we may read the Bible with them and know what God has said for us in His Son Jesus. Then God may let them see the light of truth shining upon them, so that they can move out of the darkness.
Bro Reuben Chokufanacho
CHINHOYI
So You Have Decided to quit Christadelphian Beliefs Because:-
a) You are too isolated.
You are responsible for breaking that isolation through study groups and preaching in your locality.
b) The majority of your relatives are non-Christadelphian.
The truth shall set you free despite your loneliness. Narrow is the gate (Matthew 7:13,14).
c) You have been enticed in secret polygamy.
A man shall leave his parents (and so shall the woman), and the two shall be one. God in the beginning created Adam then his wife Eve- Monogamy unwaveringly encouraged (Matthew 19:4,5).
d) You are orphaned, diseased, neglected or less privileged.
Call upon the Lord’s name day in, day out. He will console you. The biblical Lazarus ate crumbs from the rich man’s table but was a God-fearing man and severely less privileged. Be the Lazarus of today (Luke 16:19 onwards).
e) Your term of office expired in the running of your local ecclesia.
Be part and parcel of God’s ecclesia always; the earthly life is both educational and temporary.
f) Non-Christians appear to be more blessed than Christians. They own cars, big businesses and lead luxurious lives.
Unless the prosperous non-Christians repent, they are having their short-lived share of wealth in this corrupt age. In God’s Kingdom, their earthly riches will vanish away in their destruction (Matthew 6:19-21).
g) I would like to bribe to become rich. If one bribes, he/she is fooling earthly men. God can never be fooled. The wages of bribes are always disastrous (Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 27:25).
h) The wait for the coming Messiah has been too long.
The date of the coming of the Lord is known by God only. The time frame of God is 1,000 years for one day – which implies that the coming of Jesus is not far. Reading the signs of the time in Matthew 24 is yet another indicator of his nearness. Belief, perseverance and a contrite heart lead one to the most valuable gift of eternal life.
i) You have toiled in past years and not seen prosperity; prayed now and then for God’s intervention but to no avail.
God knows our situation and lets everything run normally for a purpose. The Creator always answers. Our problem is that we tend to force our way. The Almighty can never be a slave to our requests. YES, WAIT, NOW are His decisive answers portraying His wisdom.
Bro Innocent Kuvita
CHIPINGE
Our effort with the student Bible Classes in Mozambique is now yielding results as we are celebrating yet another baptism, Bro Hebert Mahala of Mossurize district (Espungabera), into the saving Name of our Lord Jesus Christ after giving a good confession of faith. The baptism took place in the Tanganda River, Zimbabwe, and was witnessed by the Chipinge district ecclesia including two of his relatives who travelled with him from Mozambique and there were also other Bible students present.
We also want to thank our heavenly Father tfor giving us good rains and we are looking forward to a good harvest.
Bro Moses Dhlakama
With God’s love the gospel preaching in Espungabera-Mozambique- is raising much interest. This is encouraged by Brethren Moses and Admire who are frequently visiting them from Zimbabwe. We do many activities like Bible readings and attention to the Bible correspondence course students. The book, ‘Speaking About Jesus’ is well received by many of them. I hope, God willing, we will achieve a good harvest in God’s name.
Bro Arone Muchanga
“His wife said to him, “You are still as faithful as ever, aren’t you? Why don’t you curse God and die?” Job answered, “You are talking nonsense! When God sends us something good we welcome it. How then can we complain when he sends us trouble?” In spite of everything he suffered, Job said nothing against God (Job 2:9,10).
Job was a man of great faith and patience who lived a life of righteousness and near perfection. He loved and feared God and shunned evil. He was subjected to trouble and tragedy in the most severe and lasting forms, yet at no time did he waver in his belief in the goodness of God. However well-meaning they had been, Job’s friends did little to assist him in his time of trial while his wife did everything she could to provoke him into turning aside from God. But Job’s faith was rock-solid and was eventually rewarded by God.
There are those moments in life when we are tested; when events take place that test our faith in God. At times like these the mind is often filled with doubts and can even begin to doubt the very existence of God – let alone His love. Always remember that the living Christ laid down his life to establish his love for you and that nothing in all the world can take that love away. Cling to that hope and put your trust always in God.
Chionisa Sainah
CHISAPE
We were saddened by the death of our Sister Joyce Seremwe on 4th January 2007. She was ill for a long time but she was always present at the Memorial Service every Sunday we met, a good example to us all. Now she sleeps in the hope of our Master.
Concerning the keeping of rabbits, I would like to tell you that I have just finished making hutches and bought two rabbits last year. They bred four last year so they were six. Unexpectedly, two fell down from a hole in a fence one night; one was badly injured by neighbour’s dogs and I missed one. I have made up the hole in the fence. I hope more rabbits will be bred soon. I am requesting any information on rabbit keeping.
Thanks for ‘Wrested Scriptures’, Bible Views on the News, Middle East Update and some leaflets to distribute. The free Dictionary/Thesaurus is so good. I needed it to understand the English language; some I can read but I don’t understand well.
The devil is not a supernatural being, but the evil principle in human nature, apostolically styled, ‘sin in the flesh’. The two men, a publican and a Pharisee both went to the temple to worship, (Luke 18:10-14) but God did not accept the self-righteous Pharisee, instructing us that we should be extremely careful before we pass any harsh judgement upon the actions of other people. Such self-righteous condemnation is still to people who profess religion and our own community is not free from such thinking. When someone has been responsible for grievous sin in the ecclesia, he or she is often immediately disfellowshipped, rather than sat down with at a meal to feed them with our love and concern for their recovery.
Too often, removing someone from fellowship is done to purge the ecclesial attendance roll rather than to serve as a means of recovery. The person disfellowshipped is often thereafter ignored: case closed as far as we are concerned! Yet this is not at all the tenor of what our Lord Jesus is teaching in this case. The miracle of healing of the flesh is coupled with a wonderful lesson on the way to heal the flesh and spirit. “They that are whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy and not sacrifice; for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Matt. 9:12-13). That marvellous way of healing spiritual illness is with the medicine of mercy. While offering it graciously and generously it is often contrary to the human mind, nevertheless it is the mind of Christ, Son of God.
Bro Stanford Kuuzha
CHISHUMBA
The books you sent are proving very useful and are circulating among the brothers and sisters of Chishumba Ecclesia. More are needed if available. Mostly needed are (1) Christendom Astray, (2) The Christadelphians: Who They Are and What They Believe and Preach. I would be glad and thankful if I, on behalf of the brothers, can have these books.
Bro Norman and Sis Grace Kamutikaoma
CHISHUMBA
I am thrilled by the feeling of having an unfailing friend – a friend who never leaves me when I am desperate, surrounded by opposition. He comes to rescue me. I know most believers have gone through some hard, trying times before or after baptism. God, an unfailing Friend comes in to lift you up. He gives you and me courage and He whispers, ‘Take courage’. He gives you what to say and never leaves you alone. This is what happened to Peter when Herod killed James, brother of John (Acts 12:2-7).
James was killed by Herod, so the next was Peter. He was arrested and guards were paid to have Peter under close watch. God is universally powerful; the angel of the Lord came into the prison where Peter was. Chains that tied Peter dropped off while the guards were put into a deep sleep. Peter was rescued by God’s hand to go on preaching His word.
In Jesus’ teachings, he did what he taught his followers. In our preaching, are we examples to people, or are we just persuasive talkers? Yes, we may be crowd-pullers without following what we teach. Let’s practice what the Bible tells us to teach, and do not use our God-given talents (oratory) for personal gain. Jonah tried to run away from God’s directions. Do God’s work, for He called you to do it.
Bro Steven Tedza
HARARE
To all Brothers and Sisters worldwide who have made an oath through baptism that they will serve God until the coming of Christ, I say to you have patience when suffering under the gods of this world. The Kingdom of the God of peace, love and patience is near. Our experience comes when we see and hear the problems being experienced by other people, such as wars, hunger, brother against brother, etc. These are foretold in Matt 24:6-14.
When we hear of these wars today do we turn away from the faith? Do we betray and hate each other? Do we let deceivers deceive us? If we do, we are false prophets. A true prophet understands that all these happenings are the beginning of birth pangs (Matt 24:8).
Now, who can name the many churches of this world? Who can number them? Amongst them only one teaches the real true Bible teaching. Others we can say are deceivers since they preach the opposite to what Jesus told us (Matt 24:4,5).
We are living in a world of trouble, so let us live with hope that one day we will wake up seeing Christ. Because of the increase of wickedness the love of many will grow cold. Are we letting our love of Christ grow cold? Bros/Sis, let us say a big ‘NO’. For we are told, “He who stands firm to the end will be saved” (Mat 24:12,13). All that is needed, is patience, love and experience from our daily readings. Let us pray that those in hospital may be healed, and we wait for the Peacemaker to come soon.
Bro Israel Mutunduwe
KADOMA
This is to confirm that the book, ‘Where Women Have No Doctor’ arrived safely and the Bible reading calendars. Many thanks again for listening, Brother, and for lending a hand. On calendars, I meant the wall calendars although the reading ones are very useful and were most welcome. I am currently making efforts to reach out to as many contacts as I can and this is being aided by my current position of working with the public as I also attend to customers in direct contact and on the phone. So any material you have which might help this cause will be greatly appreciated.
Bro Itai Tembo
KARIBA
Many thanks for the magazines you sent to me and indeed they are of general interest to the Kariba ecclesia. I read about the free Dictionary/Thesaurus in Gospel News. It is in my interest to have one since it will help us a lot in improving our English as an ecclesia. Lastly, I pray for your wonderful work for the world as a whole.
Bro Witness Majecha
MUTARE
Righteousness is necessary to attain the Kingdom of God, and it is by that that we are saved (Ezekiel 14:20). It is the opposite of wickedness which God hates. However, He loves righteousness (Psalms 45:7; Acts 17:31). He will judge the world with it (Psalms 96:13) and uses its qualities in judging. All those who know Him will be judged accordingly (Rom 14:10, 2 Cor 5:10). God rewards according to how fully we live out the qualities of righteousness in our lives (Psalms 18:20,21). If we do strive to be righteous, we should expect to be persecuted or put under trial in some way (Matt 5:10). Righteousness comes through faith. It needs to be sought by faith, not by works of the law (Rom 9:31,32). Without it, everything is sin (Roms 6:20).
Jesus Christ’s words to his disciples in Luke 5:10, “from henceforth thou shalt catch men”, should not be lost on us today. As followers of our Lord and the apostles, are we prepared to endure what they did whilst spreading the word of life to those about them?
Read in Matt 4:18,19 what Peter and Andrew were to become. They were instructed that all followers of Christ must be fishers of men.
But what do we know about fishing? Often there is a lot of effort with little result. We can increase our success in fishing by making sure that we choose the right bait, the right fishing spot, the right tide, the right weather conditions and the right time of day – all of which also applies to the preaching of the Truth to others. Greater success can be obtained by going about the gospel proclamation in the right way and saying the right thing at the right time.
But fish, like men, might be caught at any time, as both are unpredictable! Therefore we also need to: (1) Be constant, (2) Present the bait properly (see 1 Peter 3:15) and (3) Use different types of bait, for not all fish are attracted by prawns, some like squid etc.
In case you think that to present the truth we must go out and be involved in the things of the world to show them what we have to offer, we are told not to do this! When Jesus went to teach the people, he got into a ship and thrust out a little from the land. Whilst maintaining a distance from earthly ways, we are to draw men and women out from the world to higher standards – to show them by example in the way we act and live, that God’s ways are higher than man’s. From time to time we have all types of men and women (or unusual fish) come into the gospel net, and we might wonder why those with a rather shabby or weird appearance turn up at our lecture. We must remember that the power of God’s word is able to change a person’s life and appearance, and it is not what people were that God considers important, but what they will be. So let us spread the word of God and be the example ourselves.
Bro Gilbert Tevere
MUTEMA
I am now working in the Department of Veterinary Service as a Dip Attendant. This is a relatively lowly paid job. I must study further for my salary to be up-graded. I started working on 2nd January 2007. It is about 300m from home to the workplace. I have enough time to do ecclesial activities. I thank God very much for this employment opportunity. I’ve been unemployed permanently since 1996, when I left school. God has done miracles for me this year. Thank you. Please help me to thank God in your prayers. May God continue sending these blessings upon me, though I am unclean before Him.
Bro Patrick Manduringa
RIMBI
Have any of us asked yourselves this question: Why should God keep you alive longer than today? Do you remember what Hezekiah did when he prayed to God after being told he would die? “O Lord, remember how I have walked before you faithfully” (2 Kings 20:2,3). The house must be built upon a rock, such as the guidelines, “He whose walk is blameless and who does what is blameless” (Psalm 15:2). Walking in the word involves the activity of the whole body, from head to toe, uprightly and spiritually (Psalm 1:1). We must walk according to God like Enoch and Noah (Genesis 5:22; 6:9). Walking with God means that followers of Christ have to be perfect, continually doing what is good in the eyes of God; “he speaks the truth from his heart” (Psalm 15:3). All that we do must be good in the eyes of both God and man. God knows what is in the heart. We must market ourselves to the world showing that we are the followers of God, and we must preach all the time (2 Timothy 4:2). We must not find out other people’s faults or weaknesses (Romans 14:10). It is easy to sin and James tells us that the tongue is a deadly poison, so let us not offend in this way (James 3:8-10).
Bro Dzingai Sumburera
