News from Africa
I have been absent in the country for a long time and when I went back I found many books and magazines in my box and I am very happy so I am writing to thank you for your great work around the world. I was planning to visit London while our President was making a trip there, but unfortunately the trip has been postponed. At that time I worked in the Cabinet of the President of the Republic but now I have been sent to the Cabinet of the Minister in charge of Good Governance. The war in Burundi is almost over but we still see some signs of unhappiness among people so I think God will show His hand to His people. I am still praying for you and your work and please do the same for us.
Sis. Elysee Nimpaganitse
In Burundi people are being killed every day by violent burglars and the situation is very bad in the social community. We read that such things will happen in Matthew ch. 24.
Bro. Costantin Mwagalwa
Cibitoke Bujumbura/Burundi Ecclesia Sunday School. Left Bro Costantin (Secretary) Centre Sis Bukuru Noela (Tutor) Right Bro David
LIMBE
Life this way is so hard until we become weak in the things of this life, but strong as we walk toward the Kingdom. Thanks to God’s grace we have comfort in His word and from our fellow-pilgrims like you. I am very grateful for your concern and uplifting words.
Bro Amban Rassendyll
We wish you a prosperous New Year fillled with good health, love and happiness. For sometime I have not been receiving Gospel News regularly and am in need of this and the Bible Readers Calendar 2008, plus a KJV Bible. I have changed my address to P.O Box 71, Fontem Lebialem, South West Province, Cameroon.
Bro Mbiaoh Anthony
Photo: Bro Jackson Bakumba
Bro Julius Asong (Kamba)
Bro Anthony Mbiaoh building the ecclesial hall at BENAKUMA, Cameroon
KINSHASA
Sincere greetings from Kinshasa the capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo. We here have got the opportunity of checking the Web site you have sent us and we have enjoyed the books in French language at ww.carelinks.net/French.html. We appreciate Brother Marcus sending us the books.
Bro. Mukambilwa KimsMATADI
We would like to receive the books in French for our Ecclesia of Matadi. Recently I talked about the Devil to someone and I gave him the only book you sent us about this topic. If possible, please send us another one. I would like to thank you so much for your support spiritual, financial and material. May the God of Abraham bless you and fill you with His grace.
I would like to receive Bible Basics in French for our Ecclesia of Matadi.
Bro Hans Bruno Lutete
Thanks for the Tighrina Bibles. The Lord has been keeping me busy the last three weeks, I haven’t had much time to do anything. I have been really poorly as well. I saw Brother Dawit on Saturday. God Bless.
Sis. Kristina
CAPE COAST
Topics for 2008, God Willing: Matthew 20:1-19, “Labourers in the Vineyard” and, “Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?”
I will be very glad if we who are walking in God’s vineyard will think about these two sentences . We all know that nowadays the world is moving fast with its attractions and with a very little slip we can become engrossed in them. We should be very happy with whatever we have or receive and stand firm in our faith and make prayer our daily bread. We are in hardship due to petrol increases on a quarterly basis. I hope that Ghana is not alone in this, but my prayer is that we should hold on to our faith. We are all fine and looking forward to welcoming our Lord’s second coming, by the will of God. May our Almighty Father richly bless us all, especially in the wonderful work that is being done to preach the Truth and strengthen us to be ready for Jesus’ coming.
Bro. Lawrence Nkrumah
MOSEASO
Our combined love and greetings to all in the Lord. God be thanked for ushering us into a New Year. I have received many copies of Gospel News. I know that any Ecclesial Recording Brother can receive regular free copies so please do not forget my name from your list. We are building a church and we are working hard to complete it within a short time. I would like to request ten copies of Bible Basics and one Bible Companion so that we can understand more from the Bible. We try to turn away from worldly behaviour and to keep watching continually for the Master, Jesus Christ Our church has grown to 23 who are baptised and 16 interested friends and we have a Sunday School of 18. Finally, we would like to receive anything you can support us with and we pray for all Christadelphian ecclesias in the Lord’s Name.
Bro. Gilesnnes Adjei Bimpong
SHAMA
God says, “I am the Lord thy God and besides me there is no other God, and the true God; the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and of Moses”. He commanded Moses to bring His people from oppression, led them across the Red Sea, striking off their enemies behind by drowning, and led them through the wilderness. When we fall into tribulation or trouble then of course fear comes which can betray the faith of the person himself. God did wonders to show Pharoah that after all the evil treatment meted to the Lord’s people they still grew and multiplied and they were “grieved because of the children of Israel” (Ex. 1:12). Even Joseph’s brethren who sold him for twenty pieces of silver later became sorry and lamented him. But if this had not occurred where would the saving hand have come from during the famine? God so loved His people Israel that Joseph had to pass that test, as Christ Jesus laid down his life for you and all his brethren and sisters through the GRACE He has for us.
I would be very grateful if spiritual books such as Bible Basics and The 66 Books of the Bible could be sent to us to be distributed to the brethren and sisters in the ecclesia; ten copies of each title please in English. We often attend meetings such as the Breaking of Bread on Sundays, Bible Class every Friday and have a Sunday School for the children. Remember us in your prayers that our ecclesia here may grow in spirit and truth. Bro. Stephen and Sis. Wendy Sykes and Bro. John and Sis. Mary Hearn from England, visited us at Shama Junction.
Bro. Caiaphas Dagodzo
BULIMBO
We are experiencing short rains and people are harvesting ground-nuts and burning ripe corns. Already it seems that next year there will be famine because this year’s harvest has not been that good.
I feel good when I receive replies from you but when you keep quiet, then I get discouraged. It’s now three months that I have undergone temptations that have helped me to gain strength (I am blessed with a part-time job now.)
Sis Imelda Makokha
BUNGOMA
I am very grateful to hear that you have reprinted the Kiswahili Bible Basics. This is especially important in Kenya because the common language is Kiswahili. So if you can send me a copy, I would be very grateful.
In the Bible we find that many people ran away to Egypt to either secure their life or for famine but not to settle. Let us look at the example of our father, Abraham, after he settled in Canaan. There was a famine which forced him to leave that land and go to Egypt (Genesis 12:9-12). While he was there he lied to the king of Egypt in order to protect his wife.
A second example is Jacob’s family who went to Egypt after Joseph, and enjoyed five good years. But afterwards, the new Pharaoh did not know Joseph (Genesis 42:1-6, 43:1,2). The people of Israel were made to do forced labour, to make bricks and build houses. Pharaoh became scared of the numbers of the Israelites and finally killed all the baby boys who were born (Exodus 1:8,11,12).
Another example is that of Jesus Christ. At the time of his birth, the Roman Empire was ruling and king Herod began searching in order to kill the new-born king, Jesus. But God sent an angel to Joseph, to tell him to escape to Egypt to avoid the child being killed (Matthew 2:7-16).
On all these three occasions, Egypt was a good place to escape trouble.
Bro Boniface Juma
We have been going through the books you gave us and we have found much pleasure in reading them.
In Kenya, much violence is being used in these political times.
On the other hand, job opportunities are becoming scarcer each day. At the same time, training colleges have been motivated to charge higher prices and only the rich can train.
My tribe has a saying that if a mad man walks naked, it is his kinsmen who feel ashamed, not himself. Therefore if I walk naked, you being my kinsmen in Christ, will feel ashamed.
Bro Laban Kisaka
Greetings in Jesus’ name. Thank you for the books concerning the position of sisters in the fellowship, two dictionaries and Glad Tidings. We hope to benefit a lot from them as books of this kind are rarely found. It is now upon ourselves to clearly understand our position in God’s fellowship and be contented, because it is not by man’s favour but by God’s grace. I have some questions for Sis. Cindy and others who are also experienced, so please, I kindly request you to allow me to communicate with them by letting me know how I can contact them direct.
Sis. Carolyne Wabwile
It is good to have the books you send to me. I really feel spiritually well because of what I am getting from them. More people are moving up and down like leaves in the wind because they don’t have the Word of Life. In Kenya it is the Year of Campaign but people do not know which way to go and that has made me remain courageous. I also urge all Christians to follow the right course because one day God will change us from mortal to spiritual bodies. Otherwise, brother, I have converted many to God’s Way. In fact I had six people who were preparing for interview but the problem is that I need revision study books and I urge you to assist me with these and other study books that you think may help the children of God.
I would like to inform you that the books you are sending us are actually helping us a great deal, they are the books we are using to teach people. For instance, converting somebody like Bro Leonard Wanjala into our faith was not an easy task, somebody having a higher degree in education than some of us and at the same time being a Pastor of a Church (one with more than four hundred believers). It took time before he abandoned his church and decided to be baptised again. Right now, he is a brother sharing the one hope with us. And it is the books you sent us that strengthened his faith.
Another example is Bro Justus Simiyu of Kaptama Ecclesia. He was also a pastor in PEFA church, He took two years before he finally agreed to be re-baptised. And it is because of the books you sent us.
So what if you stopped sending us the parcels? how should we convert more people? I know I have the ability to do it, but the books you send us always give proper guidance on how to make our pilgrimage to the Bible. For instance, now we need some more Bible Companions due to an increasing population. I know the work ahead of us is neither mine nor yours: it is the Lord’s. And a person who will run up to the last moment is the one who will be rewarded. We still have a long journey to go and let us not lose hope. As the saying goes, “Prayer flies where eagles never flew”
So, brother, the books you have been sending us have been of great importance to the ecclesia. They have been helping us to tell our ideas to the Gentiles. As you know, a good salesman is somebody who can convince a bald-headed man to buy a comb, a blind person to buy a mirror and a toothless person to buy toothpaste – and, indeed, we have done it through the assistance of the books.
My people have a saying that “a water pot breaks at the door steps”, meaning that something may move on just well and get damaged when it is about to arrive at its destination. Therefore as we are about to enter God’s kingdom, let nothing disrupt us and pull us apart. So I am appealing to you to continue sending us those parcels and we are discussing an appropriate way to receive them.
Bro Laban Kisaka
CHWELE
I am thankful to God for His kindness and goodness to us in keeping us well and uniting us in our remembrance of our absent Master. I am very happy to have your letter and Gospel News and so happy to see worldwide news which gives us more encouragement. We are all on the race to the Kingdom. God has set His video camera taping our movements, characters and actions. Let us recall the parable of the talents in Matt.25:14-30. Jesus used this parable to demonstrate our faith and the way we can do the will of God by spreading the word and bringing Him many followers, as Jesus himself did. If we use our talents rather than sit and do nothing verse 23 will apply to us and we will be blessed in the Kingdom. As Ecc.11:1 says, “Cast your bread upon the waters for after many days you will find it again.”
Sis. Florence and Bro. Isaac Wafula with their family and sheep
I am very impressed with a sister and her team for the action for us as Kibisi sisters. She cast the bread in 1999. As an ecclesia we decided to farm, set up a group and decided to rear sheep. In 2001 we bought a sheep; it was very small but in 2003 it produced twins. See the miracle of God as right now every sister has her own sheep. How happy I am with my family, Ecc.11:2,6, “Give a portion to seven, yes to eight, for you do not know what disaster may come upon the land…. Sow your seed in the morning and at the evening let not your hands be idle for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that or whether both will do equally well.”
Sis. Florence Wafula
It has been wonderful to get reading glasses, so I say much thanks for what has been done for me. I am seeing well, and I can read the Bible, something I have been longing to do for a long time. So I pray God to guide you in whatever you may do as we wait for our Master’s return.
People around the globe are leading their lives in ways that do not please our God. Many times they try to solve problems without depending on the power of our Lord. And because the world is crying and faint, the world has been defiled and all the people in it. So we need behaviour change from bad to God, Isaiah 24:4. We should change and leave the old deeds because we need the truth, and the sooner we stick to it, the better, Acts 3:17-19.
All is done by God who, through Christ, changed us from enemies into His friends. Eventually He will make many others to be His friends, because the message will be for the whole human race, 2 Corinthians 5:18.19.
Bro Patrick Sawa
KATITO
As we came to the end of 2007, we noticed many clear signs of the end times as prophesied in the Mt. Olivet prophecy. Earthquakes in many diverse places, people living in fear (like Iranian bombs), pestilences, cyclones, famine and drought such as never was, nations rising against nations, the gospel going unto all nations as a witness to the restoration of the Kingdom of Israel. May the Lord quicken the times to the return of Christ to set up the kingdom where justice, equality and fairness will reign. I would like to request a dictionary/thesaurus to help us in our English which is a second language in Kenya. My prayers are for many afar off afflicted with problems of every kind, diseases, bereavement, that sooner rather than later the Master will return and the problems become history.
KIBANDA
Well, I am very happy to have received the books requested ie Bible Basics in Kiswahili language and the Thesaurus/Dictionary. Thanks a lot and may our Heavenly Father bless you evermore. Please send me more materials, God willing. We now lack English Bibles and other materials eg story books, etc. Bro Samwell Masawa
At the inauguration of the Miwani Ecclesia Hall Left to right: Bre Lawrence K’owiti, Alex Ojwang Abuya, Nelson Otieno Anyals. Bro Lawrence K’owiti
Nyandenga Ecclesial Hall Kibanda Bre John Onani, Daniel Ogemba, Kornel Oliech
Bro Samwell Masawa, a member of Kababu Ecclesia, South Nyanza Area.
KIBERA
I hope that you are all well and holding fast to the doctrines of the gospel. Our prayer is to see a peaceful world without violence at all. Nevertheless, this is impossible with man. Only God can set up a peaceful kingdom. I pray that He may send His son soon to deliver mankind from this unworthy universe.
Our prayer is that no-one should perish, but all have everlasting life in Jesus our Lord. Our responsibility is to encourage all to believe (Hebrews 10:19-25). Let us take up that responsibility to encourage brothers and sisters as we see the day of the Lord is coming. Hebrews gives us a good exhortation, with a duty to see that we all encourage one another and meet together in fellowship in the Breaking of Bread. We must grow in faith and the hope that is built on the Rock, Jesus, and remain strong.
Let brothers and sisters all over serve with all our souls and hearts, and give holy service to our Father. Our hope that He who began a good work in us will soon in us will soon accomplish it (Philippians 1:6). He has kept aside something good for those who are the heirs of the promises (Hebrews 11:39-40).
Bro Gideon Mukeku
KINANGOP
This time I would reflect on God’s commands from the time of creation or, rather, Genesis. From my study of the Bible I have come to see our God as the first Prophet, as He prophesied for creation when He used the words “Let there be …” (Genesis 1:3 and so on). Also in Genesis 2:16,17, “And the Lord God commanded the man, ’You are free to eat from any tree in the garden: but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.”
The reason why I take this prophecy is that it had not taken place, and it took time before it happened when the eating of the fruit itself brought the death of Adam and Eve and inaugurated the death of mankind.
Let us hold fast to the faith, no matter what situation we are in. Let us pull ourselves together with Paul’s words, “What can separate us from the love of God?” Is it hunger, sickness, nakedness, poverty or riches? none of these can separate us, God knows us and He is aware of all that we are undergoing. “Pray continually”. I have written this with a lot of thanks for sending me the dictionary and Kiswahilil Bible Basics. In fact my hobby is reading and letter-writing and this will do me great favour in passing the faith to my friends who cannot understand English. I don’t know whether you already have a Kikuyu copy or if it is in process; let me know, for I can offer some help in writing it.
Bro Peter Njuguna
KISAMBAI
Our Life and Practices: Life – the breath God gave man (Genesis 2:7) has a great influence in our Christian life today. Our practices imply the same.
Titus 3:8, it is our role to believe and act accordingly for it is profitable towards life in Christ. It is a command that we must check our way of life eg 1 Peter 2 21. taking Christ as an example in our lives. “Do good for all” (Galatians 6:10).
We should not direct our lives to the love of the world because whoever loves the world is an enemy to our Father in heaven:
* Romans 12:2: “Do not follow the world”
* 1 John 2:15: “Whoever loves the world, loving God is not possible”
* James 4:4: “Parents you don’t know being a friend of the world is being an enemy to God”
* Romans 8:7: “For bodily desires are evil to God (from worldly influence).
We Christadelphians should leave out the world’s influences. We should practise:
1, Follow peace with everyone, wherever you are (Hebrews 12:14). This will enhance unity in the ecclesia and even in the nation. In the present world, the cursed earth, Genesis 3:7, many nations are waging war due to lack of unity and peace.
2, Agree with your adversary promptly, bearing in mind that you must love your enemy (Matthew 5:25,44; 1 Corinthians 6:7) for the sake of peace.
3, What binds us all: ‘Love’ (Matthew 22:39; Romans 12:9,10; 2 Peter1:7).
Practising all of these makes a clear indication that we are truly preparing for the second coming of our Saviour – and we see the signs of the times all around us.
Bro Isaac Lugonzo
KITALE
May the Lord bless you in spreading His word, you should develop the ministry to enrich and encourage brethren and sisters to grow spiritually. I felt very excited when I saw my articles published in Gospel News.
Sis Lydiah Fuchaka
Sis Lydiah with the Sisters Class
KOBUJOI
I try to be brief in my writing because I feel I do not want to be a bore to our readers. A brief message to me is always more beneficial to the edifying of the soul than a lengthy piece.
Am keeping well here at Kobujoi. The weather is also fine, good sunshine and enough rainfall at the moment. We continue in our prayers for the soon return of our Lord and Saviour to get rid of the greed and hate we see cultivated in the minds of people.
Bro Geoffrey Chirchir
MAKHONGE
We wish to thank you for Gospel News, Kiswahili Bible Basics, English Dictionaries, Glad Tidings and the article about current affairs in the Middle East. God is in control of everything and so we feel safe in His arms.
Headlines in Kenya are full of political affairs after the 9th Parliament has been dissolved last month. The struggle lies between the Government party PNU, formed after NARC and the opposition ODM party. The participants are launching campaigns for the race to civic, parliamentary and presidential seats. The breaking news is that a certain Pentecostal Church leader, Pastor Pius Muiru, with his KPP party is looking for parliament and presidency. He rebukes other parties including the government for the high level of corruption in the country. He promises the civilians that they God-fearing MPs and President to get rid of all sorts of corruption. Does a Christian take part in politics? This is a question we are asking ourselves. Christians are good shepherds to look after the flock in churches but not engage in politics. God has promised to send Jesus back again to establish God’s Kingdom on earth, where love, peace and joy with flourish, to be enjoyed by the elect. We ask for God’s providence during these perilous times.
Before we conclude, we would like to share with you the idea of how we can improve on the preaching activities in this country, Kenya, and our ecclesial area in particular. Many brothers are endeavouring to translate lessons into the local language (Bukusu). There are still obstacles in our way.
We wish to have a radio cassette and some tapes to have the lessons taped in the local language for local natives to understand the Bible clearly. Non-Christadelphians are using foreign languages as an advantage to confuse many. We look forward to organising out-reaches in different areas, and enlighten other people. Thereafter, for those interested shall buy these tapes at affordable prices to for our fares, lunch and printing leaflets.
Please, kindly help us with this important missionary work. Thanks.
Bro Manasseh and Sis DoricusWamamili
Comment. An excellent idea.
MBITA
Gospel News is very interesting and helpful to my family. But it’s too costly for me to buy stamps for sending to you. I would like to tell you that the word of God is our daily meal.
The photo shows my house in great need of repair. I look after several orphans as well as my family in this, but cannot afford to repair it as well as feed all – so I am in need of help to do this.
Bro Javed Oketch
NAIROBI
I am glad to read some of the four books sent to me and more so Gospel News, and other booklets. I am currently at Nairobi (since 2004) from my home ecclesia, Lema, in Central Province (Area).
Sis Eunice Ndeti
I always remember you in my prayers, and remember all the difficulties you encounter to ensure that all the four corners of the earth at least receive Gospel News and many other booklets.
All in all, everything we wish for is not what comes our way, otherwise we may not always thank God for anything and everything we receive.
Visiting brothers and sisters is one of the fundamental characteristics of the disciples of Jesus that we should learn. It encourages and strengthens everyone.
Kenya is growing strong spiritually and – particularly - the true faith of Christadelphia is now widespread despite its unique nature. We had a good Bible School and National Youth Camp.
Bro Gideon Mukeku
Jesus’ coming is imminent as we see what is happening around the world as predicted by Jesus himself. We are living in the last days. Hosea 4:6 tells us that we should have knowledge about God if we expect to be in his Kingdom. James 3:13 tells us that after being equipped with knowledge we should show our works in the meekness of wisdom. 1 Pet.1:6,7 tells us that we should supplement our knowledge by faith and virtue. Please send me a dictionary and other relevant literature concerning the coming Kingdom.
Bro. Joseph K. Luseno
MIWANI
Miwani Ecclesia has nine members, five sisters and four brothers. We also have 25 Sunday School children and seventeen friends. We have recently leased half an acre of land worth Ksh2,500 (about £20). On this, Miwani sisters, widows and orphans’ group will be involved in planting cassava, and there is also a tree nursery project. The main objective of these projects is to aid those who come from unfortunate homes and just loiter around Miwani. They may eventually turn out to become destitute if help is not available to them.
At the moment we have two baptised widows as members of Miwani Ecclesia, and five orphans as well as thirteen unfortunate children (who would otherwise be destitute), in the Sunday School.
Bro Peter Omuny
Miwani Ecclesia at their Memorial Service in the rented hall.
Miwani, Cassava project.
MOMBASA
Mombasa Ecclesia taken after a Memorial Service in 2005, from left to right – Bro. Thomas Radido, Sis. Pamela Radido (wife of Bro. Thomas), Sis Hellen Akelo, Bro. Timothy Nguli, Sis. Lydia Radido and Bro. Edward Kunina.
NAKURU
Last year we had a Youth Camp in Nairobi, joined by youths from Tanzania and Uganda. I met Bro Tim Evans, the Tanzania Linkman. I also met Bro Philip Lawrence who assists Welfare issues, and the CBM has helped me to get specialized treatment for my chronic leg ulcer. I spent 14 days in hospital and now I am feeling well although still on medication. May the Almighty God bless those who strive to preach the glad tidings in various places in the world. I am still planning to settle in Australia.
Bro Samuel Watako
Nakuru Family
NDHIWA
I always feel great while remembering what the Lord did to me late 1994, September 26th, when I knew that I was a sinner, hence I got a true understanding of the Bible especially a quote from Heb.2:3, “How shall we escape from God’s wrath if we neglect so great salvation which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord and was confirmed to us by those who heard him.” However, this is a fact that should not be forgotten to put into practice; you find that one who has been baptised and a partaker of the Lord’s table is still continuing to be tempted by the selfish desires that are found in Gal.5:19-21 and even participating in having more than one wife and further growing of cash crops, e.g. Bhang (Marijuana), etc.
Generally, what I am trying to urge the “umbrella house” of the Lord, thus Christadelphian brethren, is that it will not be easy by so saying that we are going to inherit the new Kingdom to come; what each one of us needs is to confess and repent over sin. John 3:7-8. One might ask me what I am trying to bring home? Please let me assure you that, (1 Cor.13:1,13) I do love you in the Lord! I need you, too, brethren to taste what I tasted by the year mentioned above. My hope is always to continue growing in the faith. I am therefore requesting to be assisted with the following books.
Last but not least may I give thanks to C.A.T for the great favour and support we at Okumbo Ecclesia received.
Since our ecclesia was initiated we had been worshipping at a rented building but now we have managed to raise up a semi-permanent building which is now helpful for our ecclesial purposes.
Bro. Nike Juma
I was very happy to receive the literature and it is really helping me. The book “Why I Am Not a Pentecostal” gives me a strong foundation of faith.
Concerning the Sunday School materials, I would be very happy to have more.
On the same note, I thought to establish a Christadelphian library at our nearest centre where people can have the literature, and if possible be introduced to the course and understand the truth. It can also help me attend to some questions, since in our area there are many people who were doing the course but don’t see the meaning.
Bro Alan Ketozo
OGEMBO
Despite all problems I am trying to translate What Is The Gospel? into Kiswahili, Bukusu and Kamba languages. I will try to work carefully. May God bless!
Bro. Simeon Kituyi
SONGHOR
I am very pleased to hear that you and other brothers and sisters are in the hope waiting for Christ’s return. In Kenya, the harvest of food crops was good and we thank God for that.
You informed me through Gospel News that the new edition of Kiswahili Bible Basics is available. That is good news that there is an easy translation for us to read. So I request some copies.
Bro George Ndiege
SUNA
Thank you very much for your encouraging letter.
We have a new government and we pray that our Almighty Lord shields us.
There is, of course, worry since peace is not prevailing in some parts of the country, especially Mount Kenya region where several lives have perished.
Bro Moses E Maleya
Greetings in the Lord's name. The situation here is very worse. Every day bad reports are heard about the developments. Two people were killed through clashes and bro. Martin's house has been burnt with all house contents. Bro. Martin is residing at my place and we are sharing the small food I purchased days back. Bro. Martin's father had died and he was left with his mother and a brother. This has grown my family to 13 so we have a very great food shortage for this family. Also bro Nicholas met a group of violent clashers and was beaten and his bicycle was burnt at the road barriers they planted. He is now in the hospital.
Bro. Samwell Masawa
[Carelinks have sent aid to Kenya]
Bro. Samwell received assistance with thanks. I will let you know the progress. I am happy to have you all in brotherhood with all your compassion and empathy towards the political crisis here.
Bro. James Nyangute
SUNA MIGORI
Thank you for the reading materials which you have sent in constant supply. I am very much thankful for Bible Basics for Moslems.
Brethren, I have material problems that are really causing friction in my Christian life. I am married with three children and the kind of odd jobs I am doing cannot sustain my family. I am working as a lab man in a private clinic. Since the government introduced free medical services in government health institutions, sometimes we go a whole week without receiving even a single patient, because they can now opt for free services in government hospitals. My wife now sees me as the cause of all this depravity in the house. I am in a quagmire, brethren, and I am requesting you to lift me out of this filth.
I have a suggestion which is subject to objection. Because overseas brethren are more materially well off than we brethren here, why not start some income-generating project to be overseen by needy brethren here. I know that would require some feasibility study, with written proposals, but it is just a notion that I would like you to give some thought to. It is more of giving the hook than the fish.
The UK brethren have already supported us with their welfare and famine provisions. I am thankful for this.
Bro Joseph Onyango
The servants of the tenants of a rich estate-owner had gotten into heavy debts. Their master had willingly granted them one loan after another, so the money had been easily acquired – and quickly spent. Some effort was made to repay the loan, but because of their expensive habits, they constantly needed new loans. However, this did not seem to bother most of them.
One day, a poster outside the manager’s office caught their eyes. It announced that anyone with a loan should pay before 10 o’clock in the master’s office. That meant all the debts had to be settled. The announcement was discussed. Some just shrugged their shoulders and went away and settled to the task of declaring they would humiliate themselves by admitting that they could not pay their debts. Others argued the owner would certainly not press them into paying at all. Still others maintained that it was probably a trap of some kind.
The morning hours were almost gone, when an elderly servant with his bill of debt in his hand resolutely knocked on the door. A few minutes later he came out, his face aglow. In his hands was the cleared bill; for the first time in his life he was free from debt.
Realising that the announcement was true, the indebted servants now thronged the entrance to the office, but as the clock struck 10 o’clock, the door was locked in their faces. No-one could now get in. The time of grace had expired. Shortly afterwards, one by one the indebted servants were cast into prison since they could not pay their master’s demand for payment. (Is this story not likened to Jesus, and becoming free from sin?)
Let me tell you, brothers and sisters, something worse than prison awaits those who have not had their bills of debts cleared before God before the time of grace has expired: “Seek the Lord while he may be found, call on him while he is near” Is 56:6. I would like to break the good news concerning my studies. Bro Samwell Masawa has already connected me to a personal tutor, Bro Ivan Mabey in England. I have already sent some papers for marking. The lessons together with the New Year calendar are really nourishing my life spiritually as we wait for Jesus to come and establish God’s kingdom
Bro Benjamin Munyeo Mwatu
Bro Mwatu with interested friends.
Newly baptised Brethren and Sisters at Tongaren
TONGAREN
You have done well to send me the Bible reading planner. The book is good for questions and answers on daily reading to help readers understand. Thank you very much for the booklets of Revision Studies which you sent to me. These will help us in our Tailoring School for Bible lessons.
Yesterday we received the printed booklets of Bukusu Hymns from Bro Trevor Hughes which we translated, it is the first hymn book to be printed. We started with 20 songs and, God willing, we shall translate more.
Last week we baptised eight members for Tongorek Ecclesia and one for Turbo Ecclesia in the Mabusi River Tongaren as the photo indicates. We wish them a nice journey as they start their walk towards the coming Kingdom, which will be established on earth in the future. May God guide and bless them all.
Bro Sikolia Kapa
UKUNDA
When James recommended the brethren to anoint a sick brother with oil and pray over him with a view to his recovery, notice that he told them, “To call the elder of the church” (James 5:14,15). Presently, there may be official brethren bearing the title of ‘elder’, but they are not the order of men James had during his time when he wrote the words in question.
The elders of the church in James’ days were not only elders in name and office, but elders, or super iors, in power, having the gifts of the Holy Spirit at their disposal. They were the divinely-appointed and divinely-endowed overseas of the ecclesia (Acts 20:17,28).
Bro Walter Wasike
Bro Walter Wasike
UKUNDA
Greetings in the love of God, the Father of our Lord Jesus, the future King of the world, as prophesied in Zechariah 14. It is my pleasure and love of God that I get every article you send me and that has kept my faith up. Thank you very much for the transcript of the public debate, “Are the Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit possessed today?” Let me say, as a believer who believed by faith, without seeing or feeling, first, we should know and understand Romans 14:17. Surely we heard the Word of God by being corrected, taught and instructed in righteousness (2 Tim.3:16-17), so that we (you and me) would be perfected unto good works. The opposing debater and those of the same beliefs, know that we were Gentiles in the flesh, Eph.2:11. Without Christ’s s hed blood, that is his death, which was buying us from our sin, we were nothing.
Bro. Edward Kunikina
BOLERO
Here in my district, we are able to gather together every Sunday, but we don’t have enough local hymn books or Bibles for everyone to use during Memorial Services. So I write to ask if you can help my ecclesia, Bolero, with hymn books (Chichewa) and Bibles (Tumbuka).
Bro Lukanga Nyomiro
Bro Lukanga Nyomiro translating a lealet into Tumbuka
I have repented now and I am striving to love God with my whole being. I must put God and His Son first in my service that God may bless me. In all that I do, I just be a faithful and wise servant, doing the Lord’s will with all my heart, keeping my Saviour’s commandments, which involve loving and caring for my brothers and sisters as though they were Christ himself.
Bro Luke Cha inga
Bro Luke Cha inga
CHIKWAWA
Thank you so much for sending me Gospel News and booklets which help my life to mature spiritually. These booklets about the Bible reveal God’s kingdom promised to Abraham, David and Jesus which will be fulfilled (God willing) in our days.
Bro Diverson Folley
GONDA
Thank you for the parcel I received containing books on seed production and farming conservation which will improve our agriculture, which is the common way of getting our daily food. Thank for sending me Introducing Bibles Basics, & Teach Me Thy Way, which I had been requesting since 2004 so I am very happy indeed.
Christadelphian of Gonda Ecclesia near the Garden of Millet. From the left, Bre Fredson, Blandon, Folley, McDonald, Yohane, Robert. Two boys in front: Bro Msamaken (in uniform) with Bro Diverson Folley’s sons. Front (girls from the right): Luwiza, Evelin, Grace (daughter of Bro Folley). Back (women from the right): Mrs McDonald, Mrs Yohane, Mrs Blanden.
I appreciate the signs of the times leaflets which help me and others to know the times, we are living in. It also helps us to be strong and of good courage (Joshua 1:6). Read Mark 13:9-13, Revelation 2:10 says Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer and also Matthew 24:12, 13 says. “And because iniquity shall abound the love of the same shall wax cold. But he that shall endure… the same shall be saved”.
Folley Robert
KASUNGU
I showed the two books you sent to one of the Government Medical Officers and I was told that they are very useful indeed, but I have no authority to give any medicine to anyone without authorization from the Government. At present, I have just been temporarily employed as a village Health worker in the Ministry of Health.
A medical office has advised me that I must compete with school leavers in order to qualify for permanent work in the Ministry. He said that I must therefore go for the Advanced GCE levels, as every year thousands of students are finishing their education and are competing for an established vacancy. So I have to use the chance that God has given me.
He chose the subjects that I must study if an opportunity allows: Biology and Human Biology, Physics. He said if I go for these subjects, then I can be employed permanently in the Ministry of Health.
So my request is to ask if there is a chance for me to study these two subjects so that I might secure my job? If I don’t do this I will have no chance to continue my work with the Government..
Bro Harmony Ntchalachala
Your work has inspired many in Malawi through the information you send and Gospel News. I have a lot more testimonies from brethren who are converts from Muslim to Christianity, due to the simplicity of the gospel and the hope it offers.
Bro. Pickmore Swira
LIWONDE
Remember what the apostle Paul said “We entreat you not to accept the grace of God in vain”. For he says, “At the acceptable time I have listened to you and helped you on the day of salvation”.
Behold, now is the acceptable time, behold now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:1,2). For all of us, as brothers and sisters in Christ, now is the day.
Bro Michael Chisanga
Bro Michael Chisanga and Friend
MVUWI
I would like to thank you so much for sending me some world news. Clearly as you support each event with a Bible verse, these are the signs of our Lord Jesus Christ’s coming. I would like to continue having this kind of literature, and please continue sending Gospel News.
Bro Wiseman Munyoro
MZUZU
I am very sorry for taking so long without writing to you. This has been due to several circumstances. The major one was the sudden death of my very close Brother in Christ, Albert Nyirenda, who was in the Truth for barely three years. Albert was 64 years old and it was the sad duty of the four of us to put him to rest in the Lord. However, our mourning is not like that of others who have no hope. We know that our brother will rise from the dead when Jesus comes again.
Bro. Sylvester Tembo
NGABU
As I write this letter, I am at Chikwawa District Hospital to receive TB treatment for about six months. This is the last month and then they will allow me to go home. So, brother, I am asking you to send Gospel News and other books. And, please, I am asking you and your team over there in England to make healing prayer for this disease.
Bro Harlod Temboh
NKHATA BAY
Many thanks for keeping on sending me the magazines. By reading the articles by brethren and sisters, I feel that I become close to them. Brother, I am not in good health. I have been suffering from chest pains for 8–9 months. I cannot go to private hospitals because of finance. I visited a nearby clinic to see the nurse, but they only give me aspirin or sometimes panadol, but this won’t stop my problem. I am also failing to meet with Bre at Chilumba because of this. I do know that one day God will solve my problem for Luke states, “Pray always and faint not.”
Bro Joel Singini
RUMPHI
It is my greatest joy to know that Bible Basics is being produced in other languages including Chichewa. I am trying to improve my language and also to see again the great truth of which I am unsure that I am worthy.
Bro Joel Harawa
NAKALATA
We, as human beings, sometimes act as Jeremiah was answered, Jer.44:15-18, Lev.26:43. Has it been that we are living like the sons of Rechab who were following the justice of their parents, Jer.35:5-8. Here in Malawi we are in summer time when the trees shed their leaves. The sun is overhead the Capricorn Tropic which is a very harsh condition to work in as it is so hot. The name Nakalata means somebody who has a letter. He/she must be a receiver or a writer. ‘Na’, means ‘a person’ and Kalata means ‘a letter’. The word comes from Chichewa, a common language for communication here in Malawi.
Bro R.W.Kalowa
Bro. R.W. Kalowa and his family
Thoughts of the Judgement Seat
I stood quite near the Judgement Seat, head bowed in bitter shame,
Within my head words echoed loud, ‘I had myself to blame.’
I saw the King and standing there, beheld His Glorious face,
At His right hand in joy supreme, the saints saved by His grace,
Engulfed in grief, alone, afraid, would I now plead in vain?
The words re-echoed louder now, so real within my brain,
“Here was the One who’d gone before, the One I had longed to see”.
Said angels serving near the throne, “The Master calleth Thee.”
To give account – things done and said, the reason I was asked,
“Why I neglected things of God, and often passed them by.”
I then recalled how oft I said ,“Today I have no time,
I’ll do it -yes, another day,” and that had been my crime.
How could I answer full of guilt, but Jesus knew and said,
“No time to do the things of God? No time to bow your head?
“No time to kneel in daily prayer or wait for Him who heard?
No time to pause and meditate the riches of His word?
“No time to visit poor or sick? No time to write and give
The stranger in the gate a word of hope that he might live?
“Yet you had time for other tasks and time to exercise,
Your mental powers on other things and home to supervise.
“You’d plenty time to read and talk of things that mattered not,
But things that mattered most of God, you simply just forgot!”
That was enough, I heard no more, though words continued long.
My talent lay neglected there, to Him it did belong, But I’d forgotten it was His and put it on one side.
And now before the throne it lay, my face I tried to hide,
The saints remained there on His right, of once by sin bereft,
But I was now amongst the ones upon the Judge’s left,
Those words were still within my brain, verdict on guilty crime,
No place, No hope, No righteous crown, for YOU I had no time.
A DREAM YOU SAY – yes, but how real, and what relief to wake,
To find I STILL HAD TIME TO SPEND before the Judgement break,
For he the Saviour, who was scorned, up Calvary’s hill did climb,
WHAT SHALL I SAY WHEN HE SHALL ASK, ‘HOW HAVE YOU SPENT YOUR TIME?’
Bro Lukanga Nyomiro (Rumphi, Malawi)
SINYALA
Please continue to send Gospel News. I have no hesitation in introducing to you Bro James Mphelo who is also interested in receiving Gospel News. I need more preaching materials, Truth’s literature and Glad Tidings magazine.
Let us all work together towards unity. Please pray for me.
Bro Henderson M Sosola
THYOLO
Thank you for the encouragement you show to me - you never tire of giving it. Last year there were three brothers and three sisters from the UK. We were happy to hear such helpful words of God.
Bro Smart Lombe
Photo: Bre Smart Lombe, Senior and Junior
Thank you for
Gospel News received regularly and the writings of brethren are of great importance for our minds. May God bless you and your team for the excellent work you are doing for the propagation of the seeds in all corners of the world.
Bro. Lilkan Ancharaz
I am very happy to be a part of the worldwide community. I am thankful to our heavenly Father for giving me brethren and sisters for fellowship. One thing I have found which is rare in other Christian organisations and found within the Christadelphians is the willingness to read the Bible and pass the good news of the true bible message to others. We are a unique community.
Thank you very much for the Gospel News - keep up the good work you are doing. I enjoy reading it.
Bro Hebert Mahala
Bro Hebert Mahala
Since I returned from Mozambique 3 weeks ago I haven’t been feeling well. And even though I wasn’t feeling well on 10 June, I forced myself to go to Tanganda where most of our Ecclesia members meet for the breaking of bread. We also had an opportunity of breaking bread with Mutare Ecclesia. There we met several brothers including Bro Gilbert Tevere who was the founder of Rimbi Ecclesia. I was very encouraged by the commitment which my friend Bro Joshua Pakali gave to the Lord: He spent the whole night travelling from BeitBridge to Tanganda and the whole day on the word of God. I arrived there in the afternoon and he joined me in the interviews, but I could not finish the last interview. So Bro Joshua was helped by Bro Livison to carry on. I was supposed to give an exhortation that Sunday but due to my poor health, I could not. Joshua did it for me. The day had been a great day for us all, including witnessing 2 baptisms. I went to the doctor and he gave me an antibiotic for pneumonia.
Bro Moses Dhlakama
Further report
We rejoice in the baptism on August 6th of Chequimo Matiasse of Mossurize District (Espungabera) Mozambique. The baptism was witnessed by brothers and students from Mozambique as well as Bro. Steven and Sis. Ruth Moore from U.K. who were on a Bible Mission tour. There are other Bible students who have already completed the course and they need to be interviewed for baptism but cannot come to Zimbabwe for different reasons. God continues to open the door of faith to the Gentiles in that part of the world hence about 25 people are on the correspondence course and are living distances apart so travelling by foot is becoming difficult for me so I had to give them my personal bicycle so that we can use it for preaching. Again I am alone to cope with the number of students is now difficult and I have sent Evelyn to Harare to renew her visa so that she can accompany me. There is a very big difference in the sense that in that part of very big difference in the sense that in that part of that country you need to visit every student at his or her place to collect the lessons for marking and sometimes you arrive and are told that he/she is away so you have to come back again and it may be 15 to 20 km. If there are two of us this will help as one will be marking the lesson and another one will talk to the student.
Bro.Moses Dhlakama
Thank you very much for the Gospel News and the Bible Readers’ Calendar. Truly the Gospel News is a fellowship magazine where brothers and sisters from different countries meet. It contains encouraging news from brothers worldwide. Keep up the good work. Don’t forget to send us other copies of Gospel News – we enjoy reading it.
Bro Arone and Sis Evermore Muchanga ( Espungabera)
Bro Hebert Mahala
Photo: – From left to right – Bro. Herbert Mahala, newly baptised Bro. Chequimo Matiasse, Bro. Moses Dhlakama and a Bible student, Domingo Mashava, all of Mozambique.
ABA
We started a radio gospel programme at the end of last year and it has been yielding positive results. Two people have been baptised as a result of it and we have many contacts who are keen to be baptised as I suppose. I wish to request
Bible Basics in English,
Gospel News and other literature for a newly baptised brother to help him understand what he was baptised into more fully.
Sis. Josephine O. OnwuchekwaCROSS RIVER STATE
For many years now I have been a member of the Christadelphians. In the past I contributed in writing some articles published in the
Gospel News. Unfortunately I lost contact due to the burning of my relevant documents relating to the fellowship. This happened during a communal clash between my community and the neighbouring community in Benue State of Nigeria. However, I came across Brother Peter Keneng, who showed me a letter from you so I can make contact again with you. My absence from the fellowship for some time now is highly regretted. Many thanks for your understanding in this regard.
Bro. Gabriel O HanseENUGU
I thank you for the eye glass you sent to us, it seems that you realised that many brethren were in such trouble. We also need at least one dictionary for newcomers in the Lord. All these things you are doing encourage them a lot. The Nigerian meetings are good and we are trying our best here in preaching. My sister wife has been seriously ill for a month with a bad attack of malaria. She goes to hospital for treatment but there is no improvement yet. Remember us in your prayers.
Bro Goddy NwosuIBADAN
I am working on translating What Is The Gospel? into Yoruba for our witness.
Bro. Gbenga
Picture taken after the baptisms at the Enugu (Nigeria) CYC
CYANGUGU
I will try to translate
What Is The Gospel? Into Lingala. I have limited access to computer, only at the internet cafe, but I will do my best.
Bro. Theophile
What I need now is the contact details of our brethren and Sisters in the Senegal area.. I will appreciate that you send me the Gospel News magazine etc. For the past two years now I have been in isolation, because I haven't been able to locate any of our brothers. I am happy that I have been able to communicate with you and I will be in constant communication to learn more. I was babtised 5th August 2001 at the Aba Ecclesia, Nigeria.
Tsidkenu Ojike Mark.
LESOTHO
I have been away from home for five months in Bophuthatswana in the Republic of South Africa to look for employment for there is no employment in my own country. I am sorry that I did not let you know my current address. I am in contact with brothers and sisters in South Africa, especially Bro. and Sis. Verster and also Bro. Leon and Sis. Joan Shuker.
Bro.Tsepo Bernard LintsaYEOVILLE
Yeoville ecclesia rejoiced at the baptisms of three new members. Yasmin Ali Jere, Gary Smith, and Tawanda Kamumvuri. Bro. Gary and Bro. Tawanda are from Zimbabwe and have been faithful students over the last year, and Sis. Yasmin is the fiancée of Bro. Francis. ‘And the Lord is adding to the number those who are being saved.
Gary about to die
Bre.Tawanda & Gary & Sis Yasmin.
KIGOMA
Many thanks for the magazines you sent me which are very interesting and to read the news from the brethren and sisters worldwide gives us courage. I read about the free dictionary/Thesaurus in the Gospel News and it is in my interest to have one. I was also interested and pleased that Bible Basics has been reprinted and stock is now available because we need it in our ecclesia to preach the true, Divine Word of God. I send my photo taken at the time of the practical at our school.
Bro. Amnobe Iyungu
Bro. Amnube Iyungu watering crops at the training college.
MUSOMA
I am busy building a place to accommodate my family, it’s not big but it’s better than having nothing. The one whom I have the piece of land from accepted that he will give me some of the timber from his land for putting up a structure; now the iron sheets are a big problem. I know all these things are from God and He is my leader in whatever I am doing.
Sis. Monica Achieng
BUSWALE
Thank you for the work you are doing in the world. We must work hard to get eternal life and let us work together in the Name of Jesus. Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. When brothers and sisters become angry it is a sin – James 1:19-21. Listen my dear brothers and sisters, God has chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the Kingdom of God, James 2:3-5. If we have died with Christ Jesus we will also live with him in the Kingdom, 2 Tim. 2:11-13. In the will of God let it be done. Let us work together to get eternal life from God. Blessed are you who are poor in the eyes of God. Read Luke 6:20-23 and Luke 4:43. We must preach the good news of the Kingdom in all the world.
Bro. Patrick Muboli
KIGANALO
Because of Jesus I am allowed to send you warm and lovely greetings in our Master’s Name. Thank you very much for your letters which were all interesting and let us pray that you continue with the same spirit. We were with Sue two weeks ago enjoying organic agriculture study in Central Uganda but unfortunately I was affected by chest pain which resulted in vomiting of blood which made me feel very ill so that I could not enjoy other topics, but generally it was a very interesting course. As I came back to our ecclesia in Uganda we joined our group of seven members and began to practice some of the things we had learnt about, such as double digging and Mandala gardens. Do you know this type of garden?
Bro. Samuel Onyango
LUMINO
I always read the Gospel News that you send and get pleasure and encouragement also to share with the rest of our ecclesia. In Lumino ecclesia there are five baptised members, three brothers and two sisters, i.e. Bro. Godfrey Egessa, Bro. Frederick Ojambo, Bro. Peter Mugeni, Sis. Josephine Ajiambo and Sis. Florence Nahumach. We also have 8 students on correspondence and 12 Sunday School children. Our Sunday service starts at eight a.m. with Sunday School. From 9 a.m.- 12 noon Bible School reading and Breaking of Bread service. After lunch we have Bible Study with the contacts up to 5 p.m. We also visit students on Wednesdays and Sundays every week for Bible Study
I would like to share with our brothers and sister in Christ about the topic – SPEAKING IN FAITH. Why do we need to speak in faith as believers and how do we need to speak in faith as believers? How are we feeding our hearts? How do we livethe language of faith? The Bible tells us that by faith we understand and believe that the creation was formed at God’s command, Gen.1:2-3,6,9,11,20 and Heb.11:1-3. God is our paymaster who expects us to speak in faith in order to get His plans and blessings. Ex.23:25, Isa.59:1-13, Jer.29:11. What we see here is a fact, that we should call on God, pray to Him, and seek Him through His word. If we keep on feeding our hearts with evil, we shall speak evil, but if we feed it with an abundance of the fear of the Lord, our tongue and mouth will determine our lives before, and at, our Lord’s return for judgement. 2 Cor. 4:13. We need to be holy by speaking in faith “Godliness with contentment is a great gain” (1Tim Speaking in faith needs actions because faith without action is dead, James2:17,26), so we need to do as God commands us. In order to be successful we need to have faith in God by speaking in faith in whatever we do ( 2 Chr.20:20). Num.13:30 reminds us how Caleb encouraged the people before Moses to have faith (speaking in faith) in order to take possession of the land, so we need to speak in faith to overcome our difficulties. Acts.14:3 Let us speak boldly in our preaching. Let us live by faith that God will do the things we ask. 2 Cor.5:7. Let us speak and act in line with the Word of God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Num.14:28.
Bro. Godfrey Egessa
Bro. Godfrey Egessa on an evening walk after visiting a student contact.
MBALE
We thank you for the messages that you send to us to keep us updated with different pieces of information across the world. These messages are very good reminders that empower some of us spiritually, hence giving us a clear way forward for our future as we await the return of Jesus Christ before we triumphantly march to meet God’s glory in Jerusalem where we expect paradise. The big worry for nuclear weapons is a plan which is under the care of the Almighty God. There is no man on earth who is greater than God and so we keep praying that God defeats their plan and finds a solution. Our area has been hit by natural catastrophe characterised by famine as a result of landslides, hailstones and heavy rains throughout the years in review and this has caused a problem that the crops grown do not now give any yield.
Bro. Gilbert W. Mugoya
MBARARA
Thank you for the Gospel News – Oct/Dec.2007. I do thank God for the work you do to produce this magazine which is a great encouragement to us. May you continue to send me a copy.
Bro. James Tibesigwa
TAX PARK
It has been a long period since I last heard from you, almost a full year, as during the last six months I have been in South Africa and Iraq. I am now working in the Uganda Red Cross in the Disaster Department.
Bro. Mukasa Edward Katosi
CHINSALI
I thank God for helping me see this day.
I hope more people begin to believe in God and His son Jesus Christ and gain salvation, because I am well aware that the path they are taking does not lead to the true religion as found in the Bible. I am doing my best to share this with as many people as possible.
Bro. Edward Mutale
Photo: Right: Bro. Edward Mutale; with others brothers at Chifunsa Ecclesia.
CHIPATA
We thank you for publishing Gospel News. It makes us feel that we are in a family, sharing the same truth. We would be happy if you could also send in the coming year, 2008, to our six new members.
Bro. James Mbewe
FRINGILLA
I am requesting some literature so that I may have a good knowledge of things: Bible Basics in English and one in Bemba. I had some publications some time back, but unfortunately my small thatched house was gutted by fire a year ago and my literature was burnt. Let’s follow all that we read in our daily readings and try to live a perfect life.
Bro. Ignatius Chilekwa
Thank you very much for all the work you are doing for God, and thank you for sending me the parcel of books which teach the word of God – ‘What is the Gospel?’ and the lessons for French and Portuguese, with Bible Basics both in French and English. I have managed to produce a 2008 calendar which includes the Care Link website address. The work I am doing, God willing, should include the snaps showing the distribution of books sent to Congo.
Bro Francis Mbalanga
DUSTBIN DISCOVERY!
Someone in Zambia put some of our leaflets and Gospel News in the dustbin. We have had a letter from Banket saying, “I would like to be enlisted to receive your Gospel News. I have heard of you through loose pamphlets and Gospel News picked from the dustbin.” Comment. I trust he will respond to the Gospel call through this providential find. He would not be the first to come into the Truth this way, one of our early converts in the 1950s was a tramp who picked up our advert in a waste bin - he later brought others into the Truth MH
KABOMPO
All our brothers worldwide were at my home through Gospel News: it is God’s wish that we live apart, but we are together in faith. I would like to inform you that our Brother Reauben Kambeca of our ecclesia is back in fellowship, I personally thank God for his return; because this was a result of prayer.
Brothers, please continue to assist us with books, because our library needs have grown bigger, with a lot of people borrowing books.
Bro. Charles Muhupu
KAFUE
I thank you very much for the reading material which I received. Please continue sending me as many pamphlets as possible, especially Gospel News and those related to the coming Kingdom.
Bro. Peter Mwika
KALOMO
In the year 1984 I came across an article printed in our local newspaper, the Sunday Times, here in Zambia. I filled in the slip and posted it to the given address. I received the reply after only two weeks. I began the course in October 1984: I was baptised in July 1987 after a great battle with the lessons, since there wasn’t a single brother or sister to help me in Livingstone town where I used to work. I received the brethren from U.K. in 1995 and 1996 who encouraged me not to give up. I received more literature and more visitors from the U.K. as well as from within Zambia. I thank my Lord God who had been sending help to me and my family through these brethren and sisters, letters, literature, etc. Had it not been for your love and kindness to shape me as I am now, I wouldn’t know what type of Brother Harry I would be. May God bless you all and care for you every day of your lives.
The Christadelphian’s hold proper doctrine, as far as I am concerned. I am now re-reading all the literature I have, including Bible Basics. I have no doubt that we preach the real Gospel: this makes me responsible for judgement. (John 15:22; Rom.1:20-21; John 6:44-45; Deuteronomy 18:19). May I now appeal to every brother and sister to re-read once more the Bible and also Bible Basics step-by-step and think about your future. Read also James 4:17; Luke 12:47-48; Acts 17:30-31. Remember the Bible reminds us that by the knowledge of God’s word we are made responsible to Him
In Revelation 22:12 the Scripture says: “I (Jesus) come quickly, and my reward is with me to give every man according as his work shall be.” “When the chief shepherd (Jesus) shall appear, ye shall receipt a crown of glory.” (1Peter 5:4; also 1:13). But Matt. 24:36 tells us that no-one knows the exact time of His coming. Yet I am reminded of the signs in Luke 21:27-32; Joel 2:31-32;
Ezek.36:8; 1Thess.4:16-17. At the harvest at Christ’s return and judgement, all those who have laboured in the Gospel will rejoice together (John 4.35-36; Matt.13:38,43). “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matt.5:5). “And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the king say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you” (Matt.25:31-34).
Bro. Harry Hambula
KANTANSHI
I can see beyond the sight of my eyes: I believe we are not on our own. I want to demonstrate that fact through an individual who accomplished great things, who looked back on his life and said, “I was not alone.” The evidence comes from the man Moses.
Let’s consider his recollections in the book of Deuteronomy 7:9: “He is God, the faithful God, who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments”. “He is the rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice; a God of truth and without injustice; righteous and upright is He”. (Deut.32:4). I end simply by saying we know that the grace of Christ is greater than all our failures.
Bro. William Sakala
KASAMA
I should be glad if you could send me Bible Basics in the Bemba language, and assist me with a KJV 2000 Devotional Study Bible.
Bro. Joshua Mushili
It is really a pleasure and a spiritual revival to hear from you, especially through Gospel News and the pamphlets I regularly receive from you. I believe in some places there is a problem with alcoholism. We should be reminded that the Bible views the drunkard as undeserving of entering the Kingdom age, just as it views any unrepentant sinner. So, from whichever angle you look at the drunkard, they are the same. After all, salvation is strongly individual and strictly personal. We all know the Truth and those who have such problems know their position (1Thess.4.1-8).
The responsibility of the watchman is stated in Ezekiel and the resultant outcome made clear in relation to response. From Scriptural directive and revelation we know the state of mind that unrepentant believers have (Matt.12:43-45) and we know at least how some of these may react to the word preached to them a second time (Heb.6:1-6).
We must simply take the word to all, like brother Duncan has done in his booklet ‘Living with Alcoholism.’ Please, fellow believers, ask for this booklet. It is really helpful to whoever and wherever there appear to be problems of alcoholism.
Individuals should take the Bible as their instructor, and heed its advice. We should not want to be educated again on primary issues. How can a child begin school at six years in grade 1 and spend 15 years in the same grade? How can this child reach University level? Why do we not show maturity in faith by changing from our old self? Do we take the Lord’s advent as unsure? For if not, then we would live to please God that we may by His grace be given what He has promised.
Bro. Boniface and Sister Christine Simpanzye
Left: Bro. Joshua Mushili with, Bre. from Kazemba and Nchelenge Ecclesia.
Sis. Christine Simpanzye.
KITWE
I send you out as sheep, was Jesus’ instruction to his disciples when he sent them among the Israelites who were scattered in the land among Gentiles (Matt.10:5-6). It was at the time when Israel was under Roman oppression. God’s people mingled with Gentile culture; some of them had even lost the true worship of God, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and embraced idolatry. That is why Jesus told his disciples to be on their guard. Israel’s leaders were corrupted and they misled people, therefore Jesus called them wolves. This warning applies not only to Jesus’ disciples of the day, but to us who are Jesus’ followers in this age. We have been commissioned by Jesus, after baptism, to go and preach the gospel.
We are facing today the same situation that Jesus’ followers faced in time past among those who are called Christians, but they are not, as they do not abide with the true teaching of Jesus. They may call themselves Jesus’ brethren but do not practice what Jesus says. They have turned from the word of God to man-made doctrine, putting aside God’s teaching. To this sort of people Jesus is saying to us to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. In fact we live in a world full of the kind of worship which can mislead us if we do not pay attention Always let us be faithful to the Word we learnt before we were baptised. The Biblial teaching should be our code of conduct in our ecclesia and among non-believers, so that the world cannot swallow us up in its way of living. “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and opens the door, I will come in to him, and dine with him, and he with me. To him that overcomes I will grant to sit with me on my throne, as I also overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne” (Rev.3:20-21). These words of encouragement should always abide in our minds, then we will walk in Jesus’ steps.
I am very happy always when I receive my copy of Gospel News. Please continue sending it to me with any other material you are able. I am teaching French at Riverside Primary School. I find opportunity to share God’s Word with my fellow teachers, hoping that Jesus will show some of them the direction to salvation.
Bro. Robert Mpundu Miwele
Bro. Robert Miwele (wearing glasses) with fellow teachers.
World Teachers’ Day Celebration at Riverside School. Bro. Robert Miwele, second from right.
LIVINGSTONE
Last year we were very happy to be visited by Bro Tom from Canada and Bro Mitch and Sis Miriam Hardy from Australia. For two Sundays they broke bread with us. We asked them many questions, and they answered them well and cleared some misunderstandings we had. During weekdays we had Bible discussions with them. It is good to mix with Brothers and Sisters from other countries as it creates a feeling of togetherness in Christ.
Bro Likando Ilishebo
LUSAKA
It is said that knowledge is power but I believe that wisdom from God is life, therefore please let me know if I can have a copy of the book, Beyond Bible Basics. A sister encouraged me to have this book because it contains topics which are simplified for understanding and equipped with wisdom.
Bro. Jaxon Kalumba Jnr.
Thank you for the literature you sent me, in which I enjoyed reading some very interesting things and received encouragement of God’s Kingdom and I hope you will continue supporting me until the end. I would love to know how I can obtain Glad Tidings magazines of the Kingdom of God because I am a person who shares God’s word at school, at home with my friend and other young people and I hope by giving out these magazines to non-Christadelphians it will helpor them to know about us. My aim is to convert many to understand what I believe, and as now many friends are asking who we are, with the knowledge that I have attained I try to explain about my beliefs. Some are interested to learn more so I think that reading these magazines will help them to understand, with my help and that of other Christadelphians in Lusaka.
Bro. Stephen Siamabi
Thank you so much for the wonderful materials you keep sending me. I will always be grateful to God for you and the work you are doing. Our ecclesia is usually blessed with visitors from other parts of Zambia and it makes me feel so glad. God has increased our number with the baptism of Bro Harry and for me it is just one of those answered prayers which I do not take for granted.
Sis. Bevelyn Tembo
I was baptised on 21st July last year by Bro. Andrew Walker in Chipata but I am now staying in Lusaka. I completed senior secondary school last year and I am not yet at college because I am still looking for a sponsor. Since I was baptised I am really enjoying being a Christadelphian member because I know that I have found the true doctrine of the Word of God. I am also asking you to start sending me Gospel News which I will appreciate very much. Lastly I am encouraging all members and students to show true love to each other, as Jesus said.
Bro. Obren Chilinda
MAZABUKA
I feel encouraged and happy whenever I get your letters and I do not want to lose any of them but to keep for future reading, God willing. Thank you for your kind comments and appreciation of my article on the Sermon on the Mount. As a matter of fact what you and I are doing now is the most rewarding thing in life. Loving God is very simple in theory but sometimes very hard in practice. I say this because we all know what is good and right. We all know that we ought to be helped in prayers in our walk to the Kingdom, to be helpful to our fellow men, not to cheat, to be honest in our lives, but so often on the spur of the moment we forget; that is why we need prayers as you said to strengthen us in our faith.
Thank you also for giving me an update on world affairs insofar as food shortages is concerned. I am sorry to learn that parts of the UK are affected as well. Almost the same in Zambia; we had droughts in parts of Zambia last year and a few rains on some parts such as where I live in the southern part of Zambia. I can see that the price of food stuffs is going up. For example the price of 12.5kg. of flour for making bread has been raised from k38,000 (kwacha) to k50,000. We are indeed approaching a harder time than ever.
Did you know that the word BIBLE stands for:
B = BLESSED
I = INFORMATION
B= BRINGS
L= LIFE
E= ETERNAL..
Bro. Gideon Hankomone
MUFULIRA
We regularly receive Gospel News, and thank God for keeping us alive and helping us to communicate. Could you please send me ‘The Key to Understanding the Bible’? It is a very good book to help those who stand and teach the Word of God to others.
Mufulira Ecclesia is good and I hope that many within our area will wish to join us: I have given some Bible Basics books to some people as I feel they are good preaching aids. We are in need of books as well as other inspiring material. I also need a Nyanja Bible.
I am farming and growing food because I try to give some to the poor people who are in need: a brother in Christ needs to be a strong, hard worker.
My brothers, present day events are clear evidence that Jesus Christ is coming very soon to restore the kingdom of Israel and to reign over all the earth. The days are escalating to the end and we should be looking always, because the coming King will judge the people with just judgement.
Bro. Charles Daka facing us on the tractor.
Jesus will come as a thief, because “no-one knows exactly the day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man”. Luke 12:40: “You must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him”. 2 Peter 3:10 states... “The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night”. We need to be prepared and ready, watching and reminding ourselves of these Scriptures, especially when seeing the news of our current evil times.
Blessings are pronounced on those who are heedful of the signs of the times. “Blessed”, says Jesus, “is he that watcheth”. No-one can watch without light: if the heavens are dark the watchman must provide a light or he cannot watch.
The believer, or spiritual watchman, must take the sure word of prophecy, which is the only light capable of enlightening him in the surrounding gloom. This world is a dark place: if we understand the Word of the Kingdom we shall shine as lights in the world.
Bro. Fred Mumba
MUFULIRA
I have got the success in persuading people to be baptized. I have only students in Zambia and Congo DRC and not a full ecclesia because here in Zambia I have to go to the government for register, so that they can give me a document to open an ecclesia.
Bro. Francis Mbalanga
MUSHOTA KAWAMBWA
I am very thankful for the last Gospel News received, may you continue with the same heart and may God guide and be with you. All the articles for 2007 were very interesting.
Bro. Titus Mwansa
MUZOKA
We are embarking on renovating the Ecclesia/library hall and Bro. Andrew Walker left money to buy a few things to start with – paint, thinners, roller brushes, screws, pad board and a few other things. We have not yet started doing anything as the owner said we should wait as they are likely to sell the plot plus the whole building premises. We will let you know about any development, otherwise the school has shifted to another site this term. Last month we were visited by a brother from Kalomo, Bro.Alfred Mututwa. The price of cement has increased threefold within two months which brought most work, as well as some projects to a stand-still as this also resulted in shortages on the market.
Bro. Wilfred M. Chibomba
NDOLA
Since I have been studying the book Bible Basics my life has been totally different – my understanding of God’s word is plainer than it has ever been The book is really comprehensive in depth and clearly written, so that I have an unquenchable thirst to know more. ‘Amazing’ is the only word I can think of at this time, because of the very important knowledge you have revealed to me, changing my life greatly. The book is outstanding and it is a pity I have waited 50 years to have this privilege of really enjoying and understanding the Bible. Please send me more of such good books, as you know I can benefit and will be enabled to advance my knowledge of God’s word.
As we know that the end of this age is very near, we must be on our guard. We have to be watching and prepared to be received by our Lord Jesus Christ, in whom is the hope we share. He will be King of kings. “He is Lord of lords and King of kings and with him will be his called, and faithful and chosen followers” (Rev.17:14). We have this message of prophecy in the Bible. We read it and believe it so that a herald may run with it, to deliver the message and give it to those to whom he has been sent.
“The revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks at the end and will not prove false; though it linger, wait for it. It will certainly come and will not delay” (Habakkuk 2:2-3).
“Even the stork in the sky knows her appointed seasons … but my people do not know the requirements of the Lord” (Jeremiah 8:7 NIV). With these words the prophet Jeremiah pronounced God’s judgement against the apostate people of Judah, who had left the Lord their God and turned to worship foreign gods. (Jer.7:18-31). You can see how these people left the truth and provoked God to anger by making sacrifices to the gods of the nations around them.
Why did Jeremiah choose the stork as an object lesson for the unfaithful Jews? The stork was a familiar sight to the Israelites, as it migrates through Bible lands. The white stork, for example, remains paired, male and female for life, unlike the other birds mentioned in Jer.8:7. They maintain their loyalty to each other. At one time when I was in primary school, we learnt from our teacher about the stork during nature study. I remember very well the topic, although it is now about 50 years ago. We were learning about the migratory birds, which winter in warmer regions and return year after year to their country of origin, often to the same nest that they have used before. We even see the stork here in Africa during summer time. The stork’s instinctive behaviour shows this quality of loyalty in other remarkable ways. Both male and female share in incubating the eggs and feeding their young; storks are exceptional as parents. If one partner dies, the remaining one will incubate the eggs alone for 3-4 days without leaving the nest for food. They leave for only a short time to find food when it is necessary to leave the young. Instinctively, the storks show faithfulness to their lifelong mate and tender care for their young. Thus storks served well as a powerful lesson to the unfaithful and wayward Israelites. Read Jer.44:17-18; Isa.57:6; Deut.31:16-17 and 1Kings 14:9.
To many people today, loyalty and faithfulness are quaint ideas – admirable but not practical. The Lord Jesus Christ tells us that it is only the one who obeys his commands who really loves him, and the Father will love that person, and Christ will show himself to him. (John 14:21). This practical Christianity, the foundation of Christian teaching, is no longer regarded as essential. The emphasis is now almost entirely on the way of life to be led by those who would assume the title of ‘Christian.’ This modern approach, however, is not one which has the Bible’s support and because of this it is completely unacceptable. For a true follower of the Lord Jesus Christ, true Christianity does not rest on the opinions of men and women, with regard to either doctrine or way of life. The Bible alone is the authority, and all who claim to be followers of Christ must be tested by the standards it defines. The proliferation of divorce, abandonment, embezzlement and other forms of deceit, demonstrate that loyalty is no longer valued. In contrast, the Bible teaches that loyalty which is motivated by love and kindness is highly valued. Paul urges the true followers of Jesus to “put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Eph.4:24 NIV). The new personality which we are asked to “put on” helps us to be loyal, but we can also learn the practical lesson from the stork.
Bro. Green Mumbelunga
I was very happy to hear what you are doing with the help of our Lord Jesus Christ. I have been receiving Gospel News regularly and should be grateful if you would continue to send it to me. You have helped many brethren to know each other and many places. Articles produced in Gospel News are helpful to us as Christians.
Bro. Abraham Changwe
Here in Ndola we are all doing fine. Thank you very much for the great work you are doing – may the loving Almighty Father, through our Lord Jesus, bless you in abundance.
The Gospel News articles are helping me very much to understand the Word of God, and most of all they are showing clearly that the time is very near for our Lord’s second coming.
The threat in President Fidel Castro’s statement that “America’s nuclear monopoly will lead to the third world war, in which we shall fight using atomic bombs”, is not to be taken lightly. A victim of Japan’s atomic bomb of 1945 may have a more complex picture of the war to come, and can clearly understand why the Lord Jesus said, “If those days were not shortened, no-one would be saved”. However, most people are not seeing this, and those who are in these places may think it will be just as it has always been happening, and will pass. But let this day not take us by surprise. Let us prepare ourselves for His coming.
Bro. Ernest Musonda
NDOLA
I had the chance to visit one of our brethren in the Lord in Mwinilunga, in the North Western Province, Bro. James Kalhinga, and now I am back and I was happy as the Lord’s hand was with me there and back.
Bro. Harris N. Mulongesha
SOLWEZI
Thank you for sending me the last issue of Gospel News: I really appreciate points like those about baptism, the letters, articles and photos. It is very important to keep in contact with you.
I send my love to you and all fellow-labourers in the glorious Hope of the Gospel.
Bro. Joseph Kapimpa
BANKET
When God is directing your life you will have no time for trivialities. This does not mean that you should treat small things as unimportant, but it does imply that you must conform to the guidelines of love, patience, kindness, forgiveness, goodness and self-control that are God-given and Divinely inspired. Then you will view every happening in your life in the light of this broader context. In the spiritual life there is no room for pettiness or narrowness of outlook. To hold a grudge against a person, to refuse to forgive, to find pleasure and satisfaction in the downfall of another, are a few of the symptoms that reveal an immature spirit that is reflected in a narrow, mean and shallow attitude that can have no part in God’s plan for your life.
If you are sincerely striving to live by the will of God something of the greatness of our Divine Father will be captured in your spirit and be reflected in your outlook and attitude. You will be able to differentiate between what is important and unimportant and develop the perception that will enable you to appreciate the small things of life without allowing them to deviate you from the big. As you live to the glory of God, even the apparently small things, take on a special significance.
Bro. David Banda Yelulani
BEITBRIDGE
A man’s steps are directed by the LORD. In his heart a man plans his course but the LORD determines his steps. The things I ask God, O Lord, do not refuse me before I sleep. Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me my daily bread, the spirit of truth. I believe there is a proper time and procedure for every matter though my misery weighs heavily upon me and I know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose. The universe, the sky. the sun, moon and stars and the clouds and rain, the earth, creation, form and movement, declare God’s glory; and I despise myself and repent. I enjoy sowing the seeds of truth and as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is the Lord’s Word.
Despite being in isolation I should think, God willing, in due course, with some contacts getting serious to know the Truth, an ecclesia will be established. Some of the contacts are on the Bible course and are sounding very interested, and it has become a way of life for them that, during the day when they are on their own, they talk together, and discuss their studies. When I am at home, they join me and we spend our time together with the Word of the Lord, and I try my best to answer their questions from Scripture, as it is written.
Baptism of Bro. Witness Majechain May 2003 in Lake Kariba
My prayer is to see the contacts blossom and be baptised in the spirit of Truth, like my Brother Witness Majecha’s baptism; was to my joy he has sanctified his wife, baptised in 2006, while his children also are growing up in the Truth. Since Brother Witness Majecha’s baptism in 2003 in Lake Kariba; the Kariba ecclesia has been blessed by God adding brothers and sisters.
Times are evil of course; the good news is that I am welcome to speak the Truth in spite of opposition in some places. With the help of God an ecclesia will be established here in the course of time. Here I miss fellowship with my brothers and sisters desperately, and leave all in the hands of God – may He bless them all.
Bro. Joshua Pakali
CHIBOWE (near Rimbi)
Let God ease your burden, “You answered me when I called to you, with your strength you strengthen me” (Psalm 138:3).
How do you cope in a crisis situation? When urgent action is required and you reach the point of despair because of your feeling of inadequacy, what do you do, and how do you deal with the situation? There are those who struggle blindly on, relying on their own resources. Very often their efforts are to no avail and they fail miserably. There are others who feel that the whole situation is beyond them and, overwhelmed by the circumstance, they sink into a slough of hopeless desperation. As a follower of Christ you have the assurance that the living Lord is with you in every facet of your life. In good times and in bad times he is your constant companion, guide and mentor. No matter where you are and whatever the circumstance may be, Jesus is at your side awaiting your cry for help. In your difficulties turn to Christ and let him direct and strengthen you. You will experience the lifting of the burden of worry as the Lord takes over and lightens your load.
“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills; from whence cometh my help? My help cometh from the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1,2).
Where do you seek help? Is upward the last place you look? Do you search out relatives, friends, neighbours, anyone who can help you – anyone but God? When those helping hands fail you, do you become discouraged and depressed? God did not mean it to be that way (Psalm 121:1,2). My help comes from the One who made this earth, from the One who made the heavens: where else could there be help so great? Since you have the best help available, why look around for inadequate substitutes? In God you have more help than you could ever need, so just seek Him and ask for it and it will be given you.
Sis. Chioniso Sainah
CHISHUMBA
I am writing to let you know that I am still alive and kicking and marching forward in the Truth at Chishumba ecclesia, and I still need to receive Gospel News regularly.
It is time to make our choice final – to follow Christ with all our heart, soul and mind – or go to eternal death. Bro. Thompson Changata
CHISHUMBA
Moses was speaking to the whole assembly of the Israelites in Deuteronomy 30:11-20 when he made to them the offer of life or death. He says in verse 19: “I call heaven and earth this day to be witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life so that you and your children may live”. He goes on to say in verse 20: “And that you may love the Lord your God, listen and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life”. Moses told them to choose and Joshua told them the same in Joshua 24:1-27. Verse 15: “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourself this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the river, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord”. Here Joshua chose to serve the Lord.
The Teacher says in Proverbs 8:10 “Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold”. Lot in Genesis 13:11 chose for himself the whole plain of the Jordan. We read in Luke 10 of Martha’s complaint to the Lord Jesus about her sister Mary leaving all the work to her.. In verse 42 the Lord Jesus said, “But only one thing is needed: Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her”.
As in Deuteronomy 30:11-20 and Joshua 24:1-27 God has today given us the offer of life or death through His son, the author of life. What is our choice? “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord”, that is what we have chosen.
Bro. Norman and Sis. Grace Kamutikaoma
CHIVI
The Israelites had been protected from the different plagues, but the greatest mercy ever shown the Israelite people came in their crossing the Red Sea. It has been calculated that the passage was twelve kilo meters across; imagine what a crossing that was for two or three million people!
God’s people would have been in Canaan in about eleven days had they been obedient. Well over a million deaths took place in the wilderness; all who were above twenty years of age at the time they left Egypt. What a cemetery the wilderness became. We learn from the New Testament that this was because of unbelief (Hebrews 3:17-19) it was not until forty years had passed that those who were left entered the promised land. Because of unbelief today, many will not enter the Kingdom to come – those who don’t have faith in the sacrifice of Jesus. The Israelites with the pillar of fire to give them light did not have to stop at any time because they couldn’t see the way. They didn’t have to stop because of danger. Had Israel been obedient, the Lord would have driven seven nations out of the land of Canaan in a matter of days. Think how happy the Israelites would have been – but they wanted to go back to Egypt. We must learn lessons from their experiences.
Bro. Isaac Ngara Vheremu
GWANDA
I was admitted to hospital last month, and am now taking T.B. tablets. I was not well when Brother and Sister Moore were in Bulawayo when I went there. I was taken to hospital by ambulance and I was in a serious condition. I thank God for His mercy, because I didn’t even know whether I would come through the illness. But by God’s power and blessing I am now at home, though I have a problem walking: I cannot walk more than 500m, as my feet are painful. I pray for the Lord’s help.
Sis Sibongile Moyo
HARARE
Let us go back towards the end of the Lord Jesus’ life. He is with his disciples in the upper room. Here is his final accomplishment of his duty on earth.
I will quote the incident from the two Gospels (KJV) (Mark 14:22-24) “And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and break it, and gave to them (his disciples), and said, Take, eat: this is my body”. And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. And he said unto them, “This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.” Yet he was there in the flesh.
What did this mean? What was its significance? By this act the Lord Jesus Christ pledged himself before God, before angels and before mankind, that he would not stop short of dying for the world. He showed that he was faithful “even unto death.” Just as he had been faithful in life, he determined to complete God’s plan for his sacrificial death in his mind, will and being. He was showing his disciples and the world as a whole that he was going one step further: he was going to be faithful “even unto death.”
When we take a look at the Gospel of Matthew it says: “And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink ye all of it” (Matt.26:27), and when they took the cup, they drank to that pledge as well. They were made partakers in the same pledge as their Master, and likewise pledged themselves. “My blood of the New Testament.” From that time onwards the Lord’s followers have been taking the cup and pledging themselves.
And when we read from early writers like Hippolytus of Rome (2nd Century), he tells us that five of the disciples were crucified, just as Jesus was; others died by the spear and sword, and three died natural deaths, but after enduring torture. So it meant for them just what it meant for their Lord, “My blood of the new testament.” This further shows us the degree of faithfulness to which they pledged themselves that night, with, of course, the exception of Judas Iscariot.
When we read the Apostle Paul’s letters we discover; “Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin” (Hebrews 12:4). They were expected to resist “even unto death”. Again in the book of Revelation, to the church in Smyrna the Lord Jesus commanded; ‘Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life” (Rev.2:10).
Brothers and Sisters, always remember that when breaking bread and taking the Lord’s cup, you are pledging yourselves “ – “Even unto death.”
Bro. Ernest Leboho
Our new hall has its own box address: CBM, PO Box 8180, Harare. We put our hope in God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment (1 Tim.6:17). Maybe God has a plan for us as he did for the Israelites when they left Egypt.
Thank you for your support of uplifting us to know more about the Word of God. When we read our Bible daily we gain more experience, and by this we know how God wishes us to live. Even during these days of world problems we, as Christ’s followers, know the end of every matter. Christ shall come – there is the end of every matter.
The Bible tells us (2 Chronicles 15:2-7), where the prophet speaks to Asa: “The Lord is with you when you are with Him. If you seek him he will be found by you, but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. For a long time Israel was without the true God, without a priest to teach them and without the law. But in their distress they turned to the Lord, the God of Israel and sought him, and he was found by them. In those days it was not safe to travel, for all the inhabitants of the lands were in great turmoil. One nation was being crushed by another and one city by another because God was troubling them with every kind of distress. But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded”. This message applies also to us as we walk towards God’s Kingdom – we experience many problems, but we must be strong in our faith. We read of wars in the daily news; food problems in most parts of the world; health problems world-wide. Who beside God can solve these things? Let’s draw near to Jesus now; the signs of his coming are evident, although those still in darkness cannot see them.
Bro. Israel Mutunduwe
KADOMA
We are now living in rural areas but still using the same address.
Bro. Lovemore and Sis. Noma Tungaza
It is said, ‘birds of a feather flock together’. How does this statement affect us as Christians? Let us listen and learn a great deal from the words of
Hymn 268:
“Brethren let us walk together, in the bonds of love and peace”
Let us help each other on the way/road
Then let each esteem his brother better than himself to be
Happy are we when in this we all agree.”
These words are so inspiring that they erase ideas of selfishness and selfish ambition. “Two are better than one; when one falls, the other will lift him up.” “Those who live selfishly will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:19-21 and verses 22-26 to cap it all).
Hymn 268, then, is a great read and exhortation if we care to listen to it and follow its instructions, see Philippians 2:1-5, verse 4 in particular, “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also the interests of others” – Hymn 268. We hope the coming of Christ can no longer be delayed to right all the wrongs in the world we live in.
Messages do fly between people, some through mail and some through tele- and cell-phones and the ever-advancing technologies which have given birth to the internet. And the greatest message it carries is not given the publicity it deserves. What is that greatest message? Of course I mean the Bible message which is only available through the greatest book of all time – the BIBLE ITSELF. If only every man and woman would use and follow this book, then the world we live in would never be as it is. It would be a better place to live. Let us then be frantic in our efforts to pass on messages from the Bible, compared with which the aforementioned man-made gadgets do not last. Thank you for Gospel News, I enjoy it very much and it is a means of learning, and further expanding our knowledge horizon since it carries the ideas of so many brothers and sisters. When I was reading some of the articles, I came across the free dictionary/thesaurus which you are giving. I would be most grateful if I could receive it also; it will also benefit my wife and children. My sons are doing the Christadelphian Sunday School course and I feel they would love, and benefit from the dictionary.
Being in isolation, I would appreciate it if you could send me more material for preaching – info that you have not sent me before. I thank you in advance and hope the request will meet your usual support.
It is so encouraging to us younger ones when we have such dedicated elders in the Lord’s vineyard like you. May you continue to be such and do not hesitate to send more literature which we always receive with gratitude. I have just been mourning my father, who passed away in Mozambique. We tried in vain to repatriate the body to Zimbabwe but did not manage due to non-co-operation on the part of his employer. He was finally buried in Mozambique. We did not manage to go as I do not have a passport.
I am missing brothers and sisters at the Chegutu meeting since we are now in isolation in Kadoma where we are trying to preach the gospel, God willing we hope to start up a new ecclesia.
Bro. Itai P. Tembo
Comment: We send our loving sympathy in the falling asleep of your father, God be with you all.MH
KARIBA
God is very wonderful in that He created the heavens and the earth. On the first day He formed the light so that there was separation between light and darkness. Water followed, and the dry land – the waters were gathered together and called seas. He also, from the earth, caused vegetation to grow, plants yielding seed and fruit trees bearing fruit with its own seed. He created evening and morning. He also created living creatures and finally He made man (Gen. 1:1-26).
God first created all the sources needful for man, whom He created last: He balanced His creation so that every component would benefit from the others. As His children, God wants us to make even and true balances, for if we make false balances we will be open to punishment. Proverbs 11.1: “But a just weight is his delight”. We should ‘weigh’ ourselves by the scale of the Bible to see if we have the acceptable ‘weight’, or way of life, required by the Lord (Proverbs 16:11; 20:10). When we are baptised we are not immediately granted salvation, but we should be able to avoid temptations which come our way. We know that Jesus, after his baptism, was full of the Spirit and he was led into the wilderness to be tried. In all his temptations Jesus relied on the Scriptures, saying “It is written …” Matthew 4:4-10) This confirms that our Bible is the scale by which we can balance our actions to please God.
We must make right decisions or sacrifices so that we have the correct balance as we walk in God’s ways, always weighing our actions against the guidance of Scripture.
Bro. Emmanuel Mhondiwa
Thank you for sending me information to remind me what I should look for – betterment of my life, and signs of the times. This is the time like those of Noah, when men are busy only with the things of this present life; getting more money and materials that lead to pride. The poor and hungry are making underhand deals seeking to improve their conditions. Others are preaching in our Shona language ‘Mari is Mwari’ meaning ‘God is Money.’ The lack of Truth is blinding both the old and young because of life’s problems. Jesus warned in Matthew 24:11-12, “Many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold”.
Bro. David Mhondiwa
KARIBA
Bringing laud and praise to God is something that needs to be on a much higher level. First of all this requires gratitude. We could not praise God if we were not truly thankful. Secondly we must adore God – we must laud and praise Him in adoration of His omnipotence, magnitude and majesty. Thirdly if we wish to show esteem for Him, we must also profess this praise around others – we cannot always only praise God in private. That is not the praise of God.
The Psalmist often speaks of praise. I think in particular of the following verse, “Praise the Lord, O my soul and forget not all his benefits”. How quickly we forget everything the Lord has done for us. I am reminded of the people of Israel. They beheld tremendous miracles, had walked through the Red Sea, had witnessed the defeat of the Egyptians and a few days later they had already forgotten all of this. They complained that there was not enough to drink, not enough to eat. Suddenly all the difficulties, suffering, oppression, care and sorrow they had endured in Egypt was as though it had never happened. They had forgotten about all the miracles they had experienced. We human beings are very forgetful. For this reason let us always think about the good that God has done to us and praise Him – let us count our many blessings – let us endeavour to maintain this fundamental tone of thankfulness and be thankful praisers of God.
Bro. Witness Majecha
KWE KWE
Jesus of Nazareth, the true Messiah, whose hands and feet were pierced, was brought like a lamb to the slaughter, and was a man of sorrows. He shall come the second time in the clouds of heaven and with the trump of the archangel; he will stand upon the Mount of Olives. He shall be King over all the earth. The groaning and lamentations of creation shall cease and songs of praise and thanksgiving shall be heard. When Jesus comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels, the dead believers will be raised. Universal peace will ultimately prevail. This is the day which all believers should long and hope for – “And then shall they see the son of man coming in the clouds with power and great glory”. The long-continued rule of evil will be broken. Christ will reign for ever and ever (Rev.1:7; 1Thess. 4:16-18; Rev. 11:15).
Bro. Melusi Ndlovu
MATABISA
Our small ecclesia in Zimbabwe is growing spiritually, and the Sunday School especially is doing well. We are still spearheading for the number to increase. We will continue to preach the word and do our best to continue. We are already distributing reading materials to readers, students and schoolchildren with reliable information concerning the Kingdom of God. Please continue supplying us with relevant material.
Bro. David Ngwenya
MT. DARWIN
Keep on watching for the time has come for our Lord Jesus to appear. How do we know? By the signs of the times, death, so many sicknesses and false religions. Let’s be wise builders, not foolish (Luke 6:48-49). We must be like the seed which fell on good soil and produced crops (Luke 8:8). No-one knows the day or hour when the Son of Man is coming, so we must be alert and not be led astray, or like others who sleep. We must watch and be self-controlled (1Thess.5:6-8).
Thank you for Gospel News which encourages me to uphold the Truth. Sorry it has been a long time since you heard from me. The problem is that my health is not so good, because I have lost the sight in my right eye and it is very painful. So I can now only use my left eye. When it is windy I don’t go outside the room because it will be impossible for me to see or raise my head. So I’m asking for some shades. But what I know is that God will do something for me, because He is the best helper.
Sis. Esther Chigiji
MUTARE
Thank you so much for sending me Gospel News with the article which I wrote. Thank you too for the other literature you enclosed.
Bro. Gilbert Tevere
MVURWI
Thank you for your help with the word of God, which you give us regularly. Please keep it up. I want to tell brothers and sisters to keep on praying. “Every word that men shall speak they shall give account of in the day of judgement”. Jesus will come to every one of us. There will be signs in the last days in the sun and the moon. This generation shall not pass away till Jesus comes, then the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Some of the virgins took insufficient oil for their lamps – let us not sleep as others. We watch the signs for the second coming and we pray for Jesus to return. Take heed to yourselves.
Bro. Nobert Kachasu
RIMBI
In God there are no poor but there are great riches. In God real treasure lies not in what can be seen but what cannot be seen. Jesus told us to put our treasure in heaven not on earth where there are rust and robbers; so let us put our treasure in what cannot be seen. I pray that God can help all brothers and sisters to know the way to pass through so that when Christ rules with his might we shall say, “Oh! See the Son of God”.
Bro. Dzingai Sumburera
RUWA
Thank you very much for the Bible you sent me. I am now happy enjoying my daily Bible readings again. Yes, Sis. Ruth and Bro. Steve Moore came to Harare on 10th August 2007 and wanted to meet me on 11th August but I did not get the information about them in time as I received the letter about ten days later when they had already returned home. I am a good shoe repairer (a cobbler) which helps me when I have enough tools and materials, but after the fire destroyed my house I lost everything. I have just started to buy bits and pieces that I may gain my skill again although it may take me some time to be fully equipped.
Bro.Maxwell Mlakah
Centre Sister Esther Chigiji
TRIANGLE
I was happy to receive the updates about Israel, I am now the newly appointed Secretary for Triangle Ecclesia. Many thanks to you for the NIV Bible with references and a dictionary. God bless C.A.T. Please keep sending me Gospel News. The brothers and sisters in Triangle are thankful and in full support of the missionary work you do for us Zimbabweans. Brother, the world is full of problems – the Lord cannot come soon enough.
Bro. Kuvarega Mavuvo
