News from Africa
BONABERI
You know Brother Marcus, whenever I think of all that God has done for me in Christ and how He has blessed me, too, in every other way, I really do lack words to tell Him how I am for all His undeserved kindness and love towards me.
Permit me tell you a brief story about my life. You saw in my photograph that was in the last Gospel News that I am handicapped with only one leg. I would tell you how all this happened . In the summer holidays of July 1999 when I was 9, I had a road accident that later culminated in the amputation of my right limb.
You read in my article of my early life in Catholisism. That summer just as I was barely feeling better from a chickenpox attack, I was convinced by my mother to attend Doctrine classes that Saturday(catholic doctrine). I did not want to go but finally listened to my mother for if I had absented from classes that day my name would have been cancelled from the list of candidates for Easter baptism in April, according to what my friends (catholics) told me. It was that day that I had this road accident that finally resulted in the amputation of my leg . I lost my leg for my love for God though at that time I was still astray from the WAY. But God knows why and I do not even bother about that, for it will be taken care of when our Saviour returns. In the Hospital when my parents were weeping it was me who was conforting them and telling them that it was better for me to lose my leg than to die, for the leg had rotted and Gangrene had affected it so much so that if I had stayed two more days without it being amputated I would have died. I had not been baptised (catholic baptism) then, and was so affraid to die and go to hell. In the operation room I prayed and aksed God to save me and He did.
I come from a poor family and am the last child and only son of my mother and father. Many years after those days my parents had to struggle terribly for my secondary education. Just about three years ago I was not able to further studies at the university because my parents could not afford the cost. So to give them time to do some small savings I took The GCE advanced levil a second time, though my grades were better my parents could still not see me through to taking studies at the university level but God did an amazing thing and turned my disappointment into a blessing. Today, all thanks to the amazing work and hand of God, I work in a company and with the pay I earn I'm even able to assist my parents with either the house rents or other things. Who could have believed all this? God is just so wonderful. I used to hear about Him but I am increasingly seeing Him display wonders in my everyday life. I don't think there is any reason whatsoever to turn away from such a wonderful merciful Saviour who is faithful all the time. To him be Glory, Power and Magesty for ever and ever Amen...
Just to inform you that i have found a christadelphian site with over 95% of all our christian literature and you do not know just how overjoyed I am. I have been reading WAYS OF PROVIDENCE online since I found this site and I'm on chapter 17 and amazed with the things I have been reading, for it is helping me to see a whole lot of things differently and has answered some of my very deep thoughts about how God works. The strange thing about the whole issue is that the more I'm getting closer to Him the more awesome He tends to be and the more I think I know about Him the very little I later realise I do know about him. Without ever reading ‘Ways of Providence’ my thougths were not far from the things Brother Roberts writes about in his book. I will be downloading the books bit by bit as I go through them and store them up in my computer at home.
God is really wonderful and I thank Him for making it possible for me to have this facility in my office so as to make the most of it in improving my knowledge and thougths about Him daily as I draw closer and closer to Him. Please Brother Marcus, I beseach you to always mention my name in your prayers that our God should guide me and open my eyes so that I can behold the wondrous things from His LAW. God's grace be with you.
Bro Cyril Zang
BAMENDA
I was baptised in 1995 after I gave a good statement of faith, as Bro. Andrew Walker from the U.K. pronounced. Since then my life has never been the same again.
Faith is simply obedience to the Word of God. This means self denial and parting company with all our old manners, friends and family. It means a complete new person and new ways of life.
In Mark ch.9:33-37, the Master called the twelve apostles together after perceiving that they were questioning who should be the first after the Lord was away. Jesus told them that humility and servitude are among the qualities of an elder.
We have seen in all of the remote localities we have been to that health is among the pressing needs of these communities. In order to answer the Lord’s call of giving to the needy, I have trained as a nurse, receiving a diploma in nursing assistance. I volunteered to offer my services in a Presbyterian health centre for nine months but I left because of the ungodly attitude of the staff in this establishment. Money was the idol of the management. I identified “Kwashako” or malnutrition and poor sanitation as a problem in the communities.
We have started a C.B.M. Community Healthcare Centre here with books like ‘Where There is No Doctor’, thanks to CAT., and we are able to assist with basic health and nutritional advice and treatment.
We are even more grateful to CAT. for inspiring us with the help they are offering. We appeal to anyone who can afford, to send basic medications, mosquito nets or any other item not in use. Anything will help.
Our hope is to set up a clinic and to have the service of a periodic doctor’s visit to our poor community. Your prayers and appeals to the Master are needed for this aim while the Lord remains away. May his glorious appearance be soon as we wait patiently for all sorrow and tears to be wiped away.
Sis. Evelina Nanji
Sis Evelina Nanji
It is always my pleasure to read about you. The most important is to keep connection in the Spirit. Greetings to all the beloved.
Bro. Guy Solange
On the occasion of the New Year 2012 we take this opportunity to convey to all associated with Gospel News, and its readers our best wishes for this New Year. Our prayer is it may be for you and your family, the year of joy, prosperity and blessings in Jesus Christ and the establishment of the Kingdom of God.
We love all of you. You are so precious to us.
Bro. Kim's Mukambilwa
BULIMBO
First, I want to thank you for your encouraging letter in these last days, as we patiently wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Secondly, I also thank you for some interesting books, ‘Questions on Daily Readings,’ which arrived safely and are very helpful to me and of members of the church. Probably the last time we were communicating we had 32 family groups, but now we thank God because our God is a working God and we have increased to 70 groups. We have gone to the extent of contributing some funds from the neighbouring communities for the purpose of constructing a church.
Bro. Sadique Joumer
BUNGOMA
Scriptural help when Angry:-
‘Wherefore my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.’ (James 1:19)
Help when Anxious:-
‘Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passes all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.’ (Phil.4:6-7)
Help when Sorrowful:-
‘As a Father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear Him.’ (Psalm 103:13)
Help when Tempted:-
‘Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts. Let him return to the Lord, that He may have mercy on him, and to our God for He will abundantly pardon.’ (Isaiah 55:7)
Help when Criticized:-
‘Bless them which persecute you, bless and curse not.’ (Rom.12:14) ‘Repay no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.’ (Rom.12:17)
Help when Disappointed:-
‘Cast not away therefore your confidence which hath great recompense of reward.’ (Heb.10:35) ‘Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.’ (Psa.103:2)
Help when Discouraged:-
‘Wait for the Lord, be strong, and let your heart take courage, yea, wait for the Lord.’ (Psa. 27:14)
Help when Frustrated:-
‘Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.’ (Psa. 34:19)
Help when Resentful:-
‘If thine enemy hunger, feed him, if he thirsts, give him drink; for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.’ (Rom.12:20)
Bro. Francis Mayende
Bro. Francis Mayende on a hired motor cycle and travelling to spread the Gospel.
CHWELE
As we read from our Bibles we realise that the time of Jesus’ return is near because of fulfillment of the promises.
In Kenya the food prices have shot up drastically and many are suffering from hunger due to lack of enough food. We wish to thank you very, very much because of the knowledge you supplied to us by sending us books to help us grow different crops in our small gardens: this has really helped us and for that we are grateful.
Bro. David and Sis. Jacklyne Wanjala
I am well and enjoying reading the continuous preaching of the Gospel News magazines you are sending me. I have gladly received the New Testament Bibles which you sent. The interpreted verses below the pages are helping me to understand the gospel preaching, so that whenever I am about to slide from the Truth I quickly remember what I have read and I pick up to stand firm in hope.
Even if I am far away from my fellow brothers and sisters, I feel we are gathered together and covered in the love of our God. So many times I have been thinking of a situation whereby there is a place where people haven’t got a chance of hearing or reading the Bible. This time the Gospel has been spread widely through CAT’s work of printing New Testament Bibles and Gospel News supplements. We pray that nothing will hinder the printing of the whole Bible.
Let’s pray and keep watching, looking forward to seeing our Lord Jesus and his coming kingdom soon to be on earth.
Bro. Jacob Waliaula
ELDORET
I hereby inform you that I am the Elder of Eldoret Ecclesia and although I have been receiving Gospel News from you, this has now stopped – I don’t know why. I would request that you please send them again, as we find them helpful.
May you please remember us and send us a new Bible, as it is good for our Sunday School.
Bro. Alex Waliaula
KAKAMEGA
Thank you so much for sending me a Bible. Please continue to send me articles about the Signs of the Times and ongoing events in the Middle East, which are really encouraging. I would be pleased to have more spiritual materials that will help us grow in faith. Also do remember to send us a ‘Bible Planner’ and ‘Wrested Scriptures.’ So many people here are hungry for the Word.
Kambi Muranza Ecclesia is still young and we need your support materially. I am the Ecclesial Secretary.
Bro. Gibson Amesa Azere
KATITO
Many thanks for your letter, the book ‘The Real Jesus,’ a very interesting expositor of the Truth; and the assortment of news from diverse places around the world. We see trouble all round the Middle East and wonder how long before Jesus returns, for these days are prophesied and it is interesting and exciting to know that it cannot be long before we see Jesus.
But we see in Japan what terrible destruction earthquakes and tsunamis can create, and the fear that nuclear fallout produces, and we begin to see how Luke 21:25-27 is coming to pass, especially if we take the “powers of the heavens” as meaning those in political high places. In Kenya we are experiencing the worst ever drought and famine in history, the fluctuating food prices and the hike in fuel prices causing the living standards to be unbearable to the common man, a good testimony to Luke 21:10,11.
We planted, and it rained on 23rd March, and since then the sky is cloudy and the rains are just hovering above and there is no single drop. The crops are shrivelling while we watch helpless.
Bro. Lawrence K’Owiti
KITALE
Praise the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ; blessed be his mighty Name for the love he has given to us. I am fine and doing well in Christ.
I thank God also for His grace that I found Bro. Martin Chemiati, who gave me a New Testament European Version, which has enabled me to reach a new level in my study of God’s word. I am blessed with a wife and three children: Lucy, Elvis and Enock. The eldest is 15 years, Elvis is 12 and Enock is 6 years – a born again family.
I therefore thank God that I have a chance to write to you, brother: I beseech you, in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to assist me with Bible books. It is my wish to study God’s word and teach people to know the Truth of the word. Due to the distance between me and Bro. Chemiati I am unable to reach him for assistance.
Bro. Mark Wanjala
Bro. Mark and Sis. Wanjala
KOBUJOI
I very much appreciate the box of New Testaments and the work CAT are doing, and many a time I cannot stop imagining how wonderful and joyful this is in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. This, to me, is true sacrifice (living sacrifice – Romans 12:1).
Bro. Geoffrey Chirchir
MAKHONGE
I am so grateful to have received a parcel of interesting letters and some spiritual literature from you. It was nice to hear about the changes in the Gospel News magazine: indeed it is a noble and commendable undertaking. We pray that God will be in the midst to bless everything and so we hope to receive more copies soon.
Inflation is shocking in our country at the moment: prices of commodities have shot up terribly, making life for the poor brethren harder and harder. Many are going hungry, children are not going to school, and they are not able to access good health services. This is probably one of the signs of the times.
Bro. Manasseh & Sis. Doricus Wamamili
Bro. David Wanyala, Sunday School teacher with the Sunday School.
Makhonge members fellowshipping with visitors from Mt. Eglon region in a newly bought plot, which has a cool and quiet environment.
MOMBASA
I was baptised on 14th August, 1991, full immersion or ‘buried’ in water, believing in the Name of Jesus Christ, and in the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, by Bro. David Cooke of Coventry Ecclesia, now fallen asleep in Christ.
Bro. Walter Wasike
MOUNT DARWIN
We were delighted to welcome Walter Chakaipa into fellowship, as he was baptised by Bro. Steve from the U.K. at Harare Russell Hotel.
Bro. Sylvester Chakaipa
Baptism of Walter Chakaipa
Children are very much in God’s heart in these days, and we need to reach out to them as much as possible. Reach out to all the unsaved, for them to love the truth of the written word of God and walk in it. We need to pray for them, and particularly for those who have been sold short on a false gospel.
Bro. Sylvester Chakaipa
Sunday School children at Mt. Darwin with Bro. Sylvester Chakaipa
NAIROBI
Photo: The Youth Camp held in Nairobi last year, with youths attending from all over Kenya and Uganda for the Fraternal. Bro. Nelson Sikolia attended as the representative of Tongaren Ecclesia, Kenya.
NAITIRI
I am very grateful for CAT’s work and how I wish that you could extend your area of work to areas like the Middle East for people to know who Jesus Christ is. Although it takes time, we as Christians hope and believe that our those who do not know Christ today will come to know our God of the Bible and our Lord Jesus Christ
We are doing well at the Ecclesia, and succeeding in our mission to spread the gospel. Brothers, what we are lacking is literature concerning Sunday Schools, and if any is available I would be very grateful to receive some for our Sunday School to grow in the Lord and in the true teaching.
Brothers, it is through the Gospel News that we have received two new members to our church, which has raised our hopes to spread the gospel further. The new members say that the Gospel News of Oct.-Dec. 2010, where it talks about ‘Break it open and pour it on Jesus,’ on page 20 of the article by Bro. Reuben Kaambeu, from Kabombo, Zambia, has made them think twice about their previous faith and way of life, and so decided to join us – to have belief and to know who the real Christ is.
Bro. Nasongo Haron
Bro. Nasongo Haron reading a magazine
NAKURU
I am writing to thank you on behalf of myself and our Ecclesial members for the 12 copies of the New Testament. We shall put them to proper use for spreading the Gospel of God.
In Kenya we are experiencing a high cost of living – the prices of food, fuel, rent and the rest have gone up. But God is always on our side to help with these problems.
Bro. Samuel Wanga
NALONDO
First and foremost, I must thank you very much for the following books which I have received: 12 New Testaments, New European Version; 1 Bible Basics; 1 book, ‘The Real Devil’; 1 book, ‘The Real Christ’; 4 books, ‘Women in the Church’; 3 Gospel News.
The members of our Ecclesia also thank you for various books you supplied, although the print is too small as some of us have problems with eyesight without reading spectacles. In my case, my recommended lenses are 2.50 to enable me to read well. The reading glasses we get here do not last long. So, Brother Marcus, if there are any used or old ones available we shall very much appreciate them.
Bro. John Muyala
The New Testament Bibles which you sent us have now enabled us to open 3 new Sunday Schools, namely Sitila, Nalondo and Khasule respectively.
The Nalondo Ecclesia, brothers and sisters join with me in sending greetings to you, with our thanks for your help.
Bro. John Muyala
Brothers and Sisters of Nalondo Ecclesia outside their meeting hall.
NDALU
Ndalu Ecclesia has 76 Sunday School children, 10 Sisters and 12 Brothers, we recently baptised Brothers Eric Sifuna and Edwin Wefule, and Sister Conjefte. We are longing to baptise ten more friends. Following that report, I am sorry to say we missed ordering pocket New Testaments, so if you have any remaining, please post us 25 copies.
Often I realise that there are Brothers and Sisters across this world who share an understanding of the love of God shown through His Son Jesus Christ. What is even better, they want this understanding to make a difference to themselves and to those around them. Mark 12:30,31. Each of these areas (of keeping God’s commandments) is like a battle ground. Every day we have to fight with our hearts, with our lives, with our minds and with our physical strength to conquer our human ways, so that we can follow this command. It does not always come easily, and has to be a conscious effort.
However, God knows us and understands us. We know, Bro. Marcus, God has seen your work and your concerns for Ndalu Ecclesia.
Bro. Johnstone Kaliwanga
N.KINANGOP
I received the New Testament Bibles, thank you. What made me happier than ever before, was that I have been in need of a good, big Bible for my Bible studies, but up to now I have not been able to get one. The Bibles in fact have simplified my work, for I have offered one to the Sunday School, 2 of them to the Bible students, and they are very happy doing their Bible study.
Now we have started receiving rain and it is the planting season, so we are rather busy. We grow English potatoes, cabbages, carrots and peas. It has been so very dry, and even we were struggling to fetch water. We don’t have piped water, we were getting it from dams which were almost empty, but God is good, now that the rains have started.
Again I am pleased with the Newsletters concerning how life is in Israel and Palestine, which makes us as disciples aware that the time for the return of Jesus to this earth is very near. I happened to see my friend who had a paper showing clearly sequences of events prior to the return of the Master. Please, if I could have one I would be happy.
Again I have Carelinks to thank for connecting me to Brother Anderson for email Bible lessons, which I have received up to now. We hope that, God willing, you will visit Kenya and find a good Church eagerly waiting for the return of the Master.
Bro. Peter Njuguna
NYANGE
In Nyange Ecclesia we are all OK, and both brothers and sisters are very thankful for the supportive means you are sending to us in the form of Gospel News letters, New Testament Bibles, Bible Basics, the books ‘The Real Christ,’ and ‘The Real Devil,’ together with the literature about world events in conjunction with prophecy in the Bible. This has enabled our Ecclesia to be well equipped with resources that help us to find the true gospel.
We are a growing Ecclesia, increasing in numbers from adults to juniors. This has increased the workload of teaching, especially the Sunday School team, which has promise in their learning of the true gospel to be ambassadors for Christ. So far I don’t have any literature to help with the Sunday School. Most of my Sunday School scholars are aged between 4 and 13, and there are 9 in number.
Bro. Nasong’o Haron
We wish to send our sincere thanks for what you did for us. Many members of the ecclesia were really suffering from a lack of Bibles, but now are very happy enjoying the use of the New European Version Bibles. Many people are now also getting to know the Truth by use of Bible Basics which is found at the back of the Bible: also the Bible reading plan has made people who lacked their personal copies now to be comfortable.
Many friends have asked to be baptised after realising the plain truth about the gospel. Many, too, are supporting your project and are asking that through the Almighty God you should be able to give a full Bible, including both Old and New Testaments: this will equip every member fully with the Word of God. A copy of Bible Basics has made my work easier, trying to sow the Gospel seed to people.
Bro. Adrian Wanjala
RAPOGI
I would like to inform you that I saw the hand of the Lord from you, when I received the New Testament Bibles, which I have distributed to our members.
I remain strong in the arms of the Lord. Recently, those who claim to be staunch Christians were shaken, but I stood firm by faith, knowing that only the Almighty knows the time when this order of things shall come to an end.
Bro. Mike Juma
SINDO
The God of Israel works 24 hours a day. Paul says in Acts 17:28: “For in Him we live and move and have our being”. The power of God worked when Moses and the Israelites crossed the Red Sea and the Egyptian army perished. (Exodus 14:29-31) The power of God was at work for the birth of Jesus Christ – Mary conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35). The God of Israel used His power to raise Jesus from the grave (Acts 10:39-40). In Exodus 19:16-20
Peter, during the transfiguration of Jesus, witnessed God’s power in the mountain and confirmed the Bible was written through God’s power, the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:16-21) Paul confirms in 2 Tim.3:16: “All Scripture has come through God’s power”. We also believe if we die in the Truth, Jesus Christ has been given the keys of death and will raise us back to life (Rev.1:18).
I have read through the Gospel News magazines and find they represent the testimony and witness of many brothers and sisters throughout the world. We must give our support to the magazine. I do appreciate C.A.T’s aim to preach the true Gospel, to encourage brothers and sisters to grow spiritually and maintain a high standard of doctrine and practice, to the end that they may attain the Kingdom. I was able to get more spiritual help from them.
We have experienced drought and have to get food-shortage stock. We need help from brothers and sisters to save us from hunger. We planted but lacked rain; as a result some plants died and we had to feed our cattle and start again.
‘If the Lord is for us, who can be against us?’ (Rom.8:31) All this comes to fulfil the Bible message, but one thing I pray for after 35 years since 1976-2011, I want the God of Israel to provide someone to carry on God’s service at Sindo, Kenya, as I am getting old – like Moses asked for the God of Israel to provide, and he gave Joshua, son of Nun to carry on God’s work. So I need someone to carry on the work at Sindo, Kenya. I pray that one of my sons, Colins will accept the call of the Gospel. He is interested in the Truth, and has attended three times the Kenya Youth Conference in Nairobi city. He is in form two and his education has been stopped due to lack of payment of school fees for him
My heart is in the service of the Lord God of Israel. He will listen, and knows my problem better than anyone else, all that I need is strong faith and hope – with God all is possible. I have made known to you my problems; please put them in your prayers. (1Kings 9:3-9).
Bro. John Owalo Onani
TONGAREN
It’s such good news that you are in the process of printing a full Bible, as you did the New Testament. This is what we have been praying for, and God can always answer the prayers of those who seek Him.
When the Bible is complete, Tongaren Ecclesia would be pleased to have 60 copies for Sunday worship for members of the Ecclesia and friends, with contacts and Sunday School children. These will transform the Ecclesia from Bukusu and Swahili preaching to English preaching.
Psalm 131 is one of my favourite psalms. In the past I viewed it as an encouragement to understand that mystery is one of the hallmarks of God’s character. It challenged me to put my mind at rest. Since then I have been unable to understand all that God is doing in His universe. But then I saw another part of David’s calm spirit: I am unable to understand all that God is doing in me, and it is impossible to try.
David draws a comparison between a weaned child that no longer frets for what it once demanded, and a soul that has learned the same lesson. It is a call to learn humility, patient endurance and contentment in all my circumstances – whenever they occur, though I do not understand God’s reasons. Divine logic is beyond the grasp of my mind; I ask, ‘Why this affliction? Why this anguish?’ The Father answers, ‘Hush child, you wouldn’t understand if I explained it to you – just trust me.’
So I am contemplating David’s example to ask myself, ‘Can I in my circumstances, “hope in the Lord”?’ (verse 3). Can I wait in faith and patience without fretting and without questioning God’s wisdom? Can I trust Him while He works in me His good, acceptable and perfect will? In a world of mystery, it is a comfort to know the God who knows all things.
Bro. Isaac Kapa
Left is our friend Mitungi Saba; centre is Bro. Moses Sikolia, and Right is Bro. Lucas Sikolia. They earn their living through water supply to local people’s homes. All are sons of Brother Isaac Kapa. Bro. Saul stays in Mbakalo and is now a member of Makunga Ecclesia. Bro. Lucas Sikolia is a member of Tongaren Ecclesia.
TURBO
I received with thanks the parcel of 24 New Testaments which you sent me. Thank you so much for your work in the vineyard.
Also, thank you for the book you sent to me, ‘The Real Devil,’ and the literature on the nearness of Jesus’ coming. I send my greetings to all my brothers and sisters who are working to expand the Word of the Lord.
Bro. Emmanuel Milimo
YATTA
On behalf of Yatta Ecclesia and other Ecclesias in Central, I wish to say we do appreciate the New Testament small Bibles you have sent to us.
The Bibles are very nice, a good shape and in easy English, with the right illustrations at the bottom, which are Biblically based. This great work should be supported by all. It will help to spread the gospel, for the new Bibles are good for young people and interested friends. We do request more copies for the field work of preaching.
Bro. Lazarus Kingoo
Yatta Ecclesia with New Testaments
BALAKA
Thank you for the books and preaching material. Brother, we have brothers and sisters who do not have Bibles New Testaments. Please could you send some for us to give to our Brothers and Sisters.
Bro. Lyton John
Bro. Lyton John and Sunday School children of Nkanda Ecclesia
BOLERO
Pleased to read the current Gospel News – to be precise, the improvements made have already made it super and interesting, but indeed more is to be done and I am ready and willing to give a hand. Making Gospel News more colourful and informative should be a priority in my life, seeing it is probably the most widely circulating and interactive Christadelphian magazine. The items get a wide readership and are informative, stimulating and encouraging, especially to those in isolation.
It is so encouraging to learn about the recently published pocket New Testament, and that it will later be the whole Bible – don’t forget me! Despite making Gospel News quarterly to save expense.
There is to be a ‘Time of trouble such as never was’, from which, in the Lord’s mercy, we will be delivered; indeed, God willing, our very bodies will be transformed into the Divine nature and never again will we experience the frailties and limitations of this present mortal state.
Bro. Mwaomba Gondwe
Prior to taking the emblems, ‘let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup,’ (1Cor.11:28). To ‘examine’ is to test, inspect, to carefully look at, and was a word used to ‘prove’ metals by refining.
This minute scrutinizing is not for the motes in others, but for those beams in ourselves: ‘let every man prove (Gk. ‘examine’) his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.’ (Gal.6:4)
The seriousness of our personal examination is that it reveals our spiritual condition: ‘Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?’ (2Cor. 13:5) – a reprobate being one who has failed to produce the desired result after refining. (Jer.6:29-30). It makes us of a humble and contrite heart as we realize the magnitude of God’s love and mercy extended to us.
Bro. Lukanga Nyomiro
Memorial Meeting at Bolero
DZALEKA REFUGEE CAMP
We are facing a very dangerous life here in the camp. That’s why we always call upon God and our Brothers to assist us. Bro. Muleso visited us last month from CBM and every time he comes here we explain our problems but till now no assistance from them. Please pray for us.
Bro. Bernard Wabene
GONDA
I appreciate the book of essential Bible references, entitled “Bible Guide,” which was included in the parcel of Sunday School material. I find it very helpful, increasing my knowledge of Scripture, and all brothers and sisters and Sunday School children are studying it very carefully.
I would like to know about ‘Elpis Israel’ and the ‘Eureka’ books – I just read these titles through Logos and other Christadelphian magazines. I don’t have any of these books, so I would like to know about them and if they are available.
I am happy to tell you that my wife Dorothy, who was admitted to Ngabu Rural Hospital, is now feeling better and she was told not to work too hard, so I praise God for what He has done for me.
Here at Gonda area we received our first rainfall in November and the season seems to be better, but we do not know about the future – only God knows everything and He is most high above all the creatures. So we seek His Kingdom and righteousness (Matt.6:33).
Here at Gonda we pray for Israel to win the war against their enemies surrounding them through God’s power and his kingship, when the earth will be ruled by the King prophesied by the prophets. Jesus is the only Son of God and he is our king and priest, anointed by God Himself. ‘He will judge between the nations and shall reprove many peoples and they shall beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruninghooks. Nations shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more’ (Isaiah 2:4).
Bro. Robert Folley
Bro. Folley
KASUNGU
After you published my letter in the ‘Gospel News’ about my difficult situation, so many sisters are writing to me, encouraging me to take everything to God in prayer: He sees everything and gives an answer and a way when there seems to be no way.
My second daughter, Charity, caught malaria from school, so we were admitted to hospital for a week, but we are now well again. Thank you for the books you sent me, including Bible Basics, ‘The Real Christ’ and the two New Testaments which I’ve given to two people in our group who meet with us every Sunday. These are people from different denominations and we share Bibles. As there are so many who desire to have the New Testaments, I was unable to help them all because there were too few books. We would ask, if there may be some more, please do send them to us. I’ve started reading ‘The Real Christ,’ and I am very interested in it.
I am enclosing the picture we took during our Bible Study. We always meet on Sunday afternoons, though we are from different denominations. I am the one with ‘The Real Christ’ on the right of the front row in the ‘photo.
Sis. Bertha Khonje
Kasungu Bible Study Group, with Sis. Bertha on the right of the front row.
We had a very good fraternal in June. Brethren and Sisters from the Northern Region came to Kasungu and met with our ecclesia. New Testament Bibles were distributed.
Five students were interviewed by the Northern Region Counsellor: they were all successful and were baptised on the following day.
The Zomba CBM has entrusted me with another ecclesia which has just been established in Dowa District at Mponela.
Bro. Harmony Ntchalachala
MTENTHELA
The wisdom of God is far superior to man’s, and a little boy or girl, however young, can be kept from all the evil that is in the world on the simple principle of subjection and obedience to the Word of God. You don’t need to know all the evil that is in the world. You don’t need to plan against a clever enemy. You just walk in obedience to the Word of God.
I am sure we are going to be kept, no matter how dark the day, no matter how difficult the path. There is just one simple principle that will keep us faithful to the end – that is, the spirit of obedience to God.
Thank you very much for the two parcels (one for Kadase Ecclesia and one for Mtenthela Ecclesia) containing New Testaments for brothers and sisters who have no Bibles. These are very helpful to us. Please also send us 10 if possible for new contacts, students from Secondary School etc. CAT’s efforts in sending us many books and preaching material have been bearing fruit. At the moment I am enjoyed reading the books you sent.
Bro. Henderson Sosola
MZUZU
This is just to let you know the sad news we heard in June, that Bro. McDonard Jobe passed away. The sad part of the story is that none of the brethren knew of his demise until late in the afternoon after the family members had left for his home for the burial.
Hearing the news of his death, we were so shocked because soon after receiving him into our fellowship, he was elected as one of our church elders. So you can see our plans were contrary to those of the Almighty Father in heaven. However, our sorrowing is not like those without hope. We know our brother is asleep in Christ. When Christ appears, his first task will be to awake those who have fallen asleep in his name.
Bro. Sylvester Tembo
NENO
If Bible Basics are available they can be sent, since I will retire on November 30 then I will be distributing them in various places, that will be my duty then to distribute Bible Basics, will keep me busy in my retirement.
Bro. Amison Liwawa
NGABU
Here the work of God is moving on, waiting for Jesus to come again. Ngabu Ecclesia is growing bigger and bigger every year – now our number grows and we are almost 75 people. We do preach every Sunday; home calls and open air meetings. We built our own church, but we lack Sunday School books and Bibles.
The only message I have is to ask our friends all over the world to pray for Africa, because Africa is in trouble, mainly through civil war, uprising, famine and corruption. In Malawi things are not OK, so we need the prayers of our friends over there.
Now my new address is via Ngabu (Box 12), as I was transferred from Balaka to Ngabu.
Bro. Micky Mbawe
NKANDA
Sis. Dolophy Magoli From Nkanda Ecclesia, who is learning nursing.
NKHOTAKOTA
Duncan finally came to Malawi and Nkhotakota in particular. Indeed his coming was a blessing to me as a person and to our Ecclesia as a whole.
You might have heard that the last time I met Duncan was in Norway and then it was here. Among other things Duncan managed to do baptism and managed to link us to the main stream Ecclesia in the country. For the first time I come face to face with our councillor and some prominent brothers from Salima and Lilongwe. Praise God.
Brother Marcus I count it all joy to be a partaker in the new found doand some are kept in our library in Brother Leonards house. We appreciate your care and support. May the good Lord bless you all and interceed for us.
Its my prayer that the good Lord will continue giving you the power and zeal in looking for more materials which may still reach us in the end. The Lord is really at work. It must be noted that the teaching of our Lord in this manner is new in this area and even further north of the country. As such people are scrambling for these materials.
Its also our hope that in the end we may have our own hall for meetings as we are still meeting at a brothers house. We are indeed making contributions towards that and finally through Gods grace we believe we will make it. First we need to buy a piece of land which has been identified already as we are in town then start the construction. We are just asking God to bless and approve our plans.
Bro Esau C Chirwa
Let me thank every one of you for keep on supporting us. Let us work hard to reach more people for the true Gospel and salvation. As you know I am a doctor and very soon I am going to communicate to you about some of the programmes we want to start for helping orphans, elderly and other needy groups. I am still gathering with brothers and sisters at Linga Christadelphians.
Bro. Andrew
I am happy to let you know that GOD is making our ecclesia grow and of as now we left gathering in my house due to understanding of our doctrine to many people. so we are renting a school block 2km from my house.
Bro Leonard
SALIMA
Begging is bad if it is based on ill will and manners. It is true that there are people who need help, but to others it has just become routine. For instance, you will find in every magazine produced, there are articles appearing begging and complaining at all times. We must remember that Jesus Christ urged his disciples to seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and that thereafter the rest would follow. (Matt.6:33) Surely I am one of the poorest Malawians, but I strive to do hard work in order to earn a living (2 Thess.3:10). The Bible encourages us to work extra hard with our hands every day, unless we feel sick. (Eph.4:28) Anyone who was a thief must stop stealing; he should try to find some useful work instead, and be able to do some good by helping others who are in need.
There are people who really need help:
- Refugees, for they do not have choices in their lives due to political, economic and ethnic crises in their home countries.
- Elderly people, for their strength is gradually weakening and they need someone to help them.
- People hit by natural disasters, i.e. earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions and sudden changes of climate due to environmental degradation.
- People with handicaps, HIV/AIDS victims and children who are left behind due to the repercussions of a pandemic.
James 1:27 “Pure, unspoiled religion in the eyes of God our Father is this: coming to the help of orphans and widows when they need it, and keeping oneself uncontaminated by the world.’
Therefore I appeal to my fellow brothers and sisters to reflect that begging is not bad, except when it stems from wrong motives and manners.
Bro. Austin Frank Nyirenda
It is a great pleasure to receive the Gospel News, thank you in the works you have done. Grace of God be with you.
Sis. Rosemary Plassan
Violence breaks out between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria: At least 50 people have been killed this week in violent clashes between Christians and Muslims in central Nigeria’s volatile Plateau State. According to local authorities, 14 of them were killed when Christian youths attacked Muslims as they gathered to celebrate the end of Ramadan. The Plateau State straddles the boundary between Nigeria’s mostly Muslim north and largely Christian south. From Nigeria west to Somalia, religious tensions between Christians and Muslims are escalating.
September 10th Economist
ENUGU
Tomorrow, God willing, I will be at Asaba for my lecture. I travel monthly outside my state for public preaching. I am always remembering you all in my daily prayers. Please remember me also in your prayers for the rheumatism in my legs is getting worse. I manage to move about with faith but am tired of drinking medicine. I am not afraid of death but who will lead my Ecclesia for going out and coming in is what I fear. Will God bring somebody who understands our Faith better than myself, is my prayer, so that Enugu Eclesia will not close.
Bro. Goddy Nwasu
IKWUEKE
Greetings in the Name of Jesus. I thank God for the strength he gave you in producing this New Testament version of the Bible. Many Brethren and Sisters admire this model and I request more copies to enable the remaining Brethren and Sisters to have theirs. I enclose a picture of the Brothers and Sisters of Ikwueke Ecclesia. More copies are still coming from Okwe Ecclesia.
Bro. F.E. Enyiogu
Brothers and Sisters of Ikwueke Ecclesia.
Soweto ecclesia
Fraternal Gathering. Bro. Anthony Oosthuizen gave a seminar in Soweto. His topic was ‘Baptism: our choice or God’s command?’ He included several case studies covering issues people raise to avoid baptism and rebaptism. This was very informative, interesting and challenging to our friends. More than 40 people attended, over half of whom were visitors. Brethren and Sisters from Yeoville ecclesia also gave their support. Bro. Anthony also gave an exhortation and Bible Study.
Our Bro. Zaccy managed to arrange a 1-hour slot on Radio Jozi for 4-consecutive Thursday evenings from 9 – 10pm to explain in Zulu who the Christadelphians are and the Bible literacy programmes they are committed to in Soweto. Bro. Daniel has agreed to go on as our representative. Let us all pray for him that this may bring glory to our Father and the Lord Jesus. And tune in to 105.8 fm on 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd June.
Joburg ecclesia
We really appreciated Bro. David White coming to exhort us and we again enjoyed him leading the Bible Class last Wednesday.
Sis. Deirdre was not well enough to join us some Sundays but is now much better.. She celebrated her 91st birthday on July 19th and we all send our hearty congratulations to a faithful, dedicated Sister who still keeps on speaking of the things of God to all who come to her.
On July 10th, Bro. David and Sis. Pam Pankhurst from the Riverton, Invercargill, NZ ecclesia joined us for the Memorial meeting. It was great to have the added volume to our singing, and David doing a reading and prayer, while Emmanuel was in Bloemfontein and Sandy in Pinetown.
Soweto ecclesia
We are very pleased to welcome Sis. Paddy Campbell as a member. She has transferred from K/P ecclesia with her daughter Dida who has already been assisting us with our singing on her guitar. Sis Paddy, as an experienced Sunday School teacher, is keen to start a Sunday School. This will be a blessing.
Our ‘Exploring Basic Bible Teachings’ seminars are into their third Saturday and it has been encouraging to see that, of the 30 attending, some were the result of our Brethren Daniel and Obed’s broadcasts on Radio Jozi. The broadcasts seem to have given ‘credibility’ to Christadelphians in the area and we pray we may be afforded more time. Last Thursday the topics of the ‘Devil and Satan’, with specific requests from listeners for explanations of Revelation 12. Job 1, and the temptations of Jesus, were addressed by Bro. Obed. Also 4 students have been attending the Tuesday Bible Class which is encouraging.
It was a pleasure to have Bro. Tebogo Chauke from isolation with us for a weekend .
Yeoville ecclesia
Big disappointment!! Our Bro. Solomon Onwordi from Lagos, Nigeria, had booked to go to the UK to the Inter-Ecclesial Youth Gathering at the end of this month. He (and all of us in Yeoville) was very disappointed to be refused a visa to enter the UK. As a consequence he has had to withdraw from the Youth Gathering.
The food we collect from Woolworths at the present sometimes provides us with packs of ‘Vegetables for Soup’. Sisters and Brethren make them into a big pots of soup, supplemented with rolls, to give children, friends, brethren and sisters, something warming and nourishing during the morning break. This is very welcome in the cold winter mornings.
All I can say today is thanks for sending me the New Testament (New European Version), which is very nice to me as a Christadelphian. I wish you all the best while we are waiting for the whole Bible with the explanations like this. May Yaweh Elohim keep on protecting all of you.
Bro. Lasmme Asende
“Women at the Well” (W@W) 2011.
W@W was lovely. Sis. Sonya Szabo from the US dealt with speaking wisdom with compassion. It was attended by 49 Sisters and friends of which my daughter Dida and I made up the Gauteng contingent. We were given seven packed sessions interspersed with workshops - one on one and in groups. The weather was lovely and mild. Hebron Haven was as usual wonderful in hospitality. The Australian and English P2P Sisters made up the musical department, and we took our guitars and helped a bit
Sis. Paddy Campbell.
We thank God for the spiritual food: 22 copies of New Testament Bibles which you sent to us. We also thank God for our Linkman, Bro John Mathias, and the CBM brothers and sisters worldwide for the on going construction of our ecclesias hall (Awiri ecclesia hall, Dokolo Town which was founded by Bro.John Palmer in 2000, we still remember him in our prayers.
Bro. Bosco Opio.
DOPHAN
Three students from our Sunday School were baptised last year, and five are now at the preparation stage. We lack Sunday School teaching material.
Bro. Costa Kanembe
Bro. Costa Kanembe
Bro. Oscah Chikobela, who hopes to be married very soon.
FRINGILLA
I am writing to greet Brothers and Sisters in the Name of our mighty Lord. Please let us read our daily readings and teach people the Truth from the Bible. Therefore, let us observe God’s rules as we walk to His Kingdom. Let’s not be blown away by the wind of worldly pleasures, but stand firm and strong enough, living righteously in these last days.
I would like to announce my new post box, which is 93, Fringilla, Zambia.
Bro. Ignatius Chilekwa
Bro. Ignatius Chilekwa, his wife Babrah and Amose his son. The gates are the entrance to the farm where he works.
KALOMO
We joyfully thank you for the Bibles. Once new ones are printed, we would be glad if you could send us about 15 or 20 more copies. May God bless this work so that the target of spreading the Gospel reaches more people worldwide.
Bro. Harry Hambula
Bro. Ockrey Kamembe stressing a point during his talk on ‘The Nail of Sin.’
Bro. Harry Hambula leading the Sunday School singing
KABWE
The pictures in Gospel News make a great improvement, and this magazine needs support at all costs to make it even more interesting. I consider Christadelphians have very good material to read, more informative and educational.
The recently published pocket New Testament has been well received, and it will be very good if you print the whole Bible; I consider it will not be too big, and it is good to have the Old and New Testaments in a smaller edition.
What is happening now in the world are signs of the coming of our Master; people are too confused, but it’s right, we will be delivered indeed, God willing. No-one else can deliver us.
Bro. Greenwell Kunda
KASAMA
I liked the coloured photos which in the Gospel News make the pictures clearer. I would love many more ecclesial activities, baptisms and special events to make the magazine even more informative.
Is it possible to get me some video tapes of events in the U.K. and Bible subjects to help me understand the Bible more? These would help me in daily practice and help prepare me for Christ’s return.
Bro. Joshua Mushili
In your letter you stated that you are in a position to send Bible Basics. I think that will be of great help, seeing the Committee is proposing to appoint local tutors in our area, and I may happen to be one of those, God willing.
In most African countries we are disadvantaged in the sense that we are restricted to reading the translated Bible, and in most cases with no supportive materials at all. Books of our founders of our Faith such as ‘Eureka’ are essential pre-requisites to understanding difficult Scriptural books such as the Apocalypse. Our ecclesia does not have a copy of that, and we would highly appreciate one!
Bro. Boniface Simpanzye
Bro. Boniface Simpanzye, Sis. Christine, Sis. Eunice, Bro. Joshua and Bro. Zaccheow.
KASUMPA
Some members of Kasumpa Ecclesia with New Testaments
KITWE
The new ecclesial Secretary for Kitwe is Kenny Simbao. I talked to him and explained how these Bibles should be distributed in an advisory manner. Kenny has since received the Bibles and distributed them, with a few remaining for the ecclesia’s meetings.
I have given Bro. Elvin Jnr. one Bible, and two others to Mr. Bernard Longura and Emmanuel Kangaye. Emmanuel has since enrolled as a Bible student and has found the Bible very helpful. The English language is simple and very clear. I would need a further twelve Bibles if you can manage to send them. Thank you.
Bro. Elvin Muntemba
Left, Bro. Robert Miwele, Bro. Elvin Muntemba
I received the New Testaments you sent me and it was such a blessing. I managed to give four of them to some friends within the neighbourhood whom with I study the Bible – one is very keen to start Bible correspondence with us. I am also grateful to say that I received the Gospel News with coloured pictures.
My family and I join together in passing our heartfelt greetings to you and to all Brethren and Sisters around the globe.
Bro. Willies Simbowe
LUSAKA
Thank you for your endless support for my spiritual wellbeing. I would like to inform you that God has enabled me to be granted ‘off’ days on Saturdays and Sundays, which has given me hope that I will learn much more from His Word, the Bible.
I am requesting the book ‘Wrested Scriptures’ by R. Abel: this will enable me to be knowledgeable about the Bible and help others as I share with them my belief. Lastly, I would like to know whether you have sent me those New Testament Bibles because I had promised some to a few of my friends and they are asking me about them? Thank you very much for all your help.
Bro. Stephen Siamabi
MAZABUKA
I pray that your current project of the printing of the complete Bible will be a success.
Here in Mazabuka, mostly the three of us meet, though there are many students but few baptised brethren and sisters.
Bro. Chrivious Chimuka
As I read of the current world affairs I am horrified to see that there are problems in different parts of the world. Man cannot solve his own problems, but God alone has the solution to all our difficulties.
The Bible tells us that when the Kingdom of God is established, things will be very good again. Peter spoke about this in Acts 3:19-21: “Repent therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord; and that He will send Jesus Christ, who was preached to you before, whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things; of which God has spoken by the mouth of His holy prophets since the foundation of the earth.”
A few weeks ago I was attacked by unknown people who took away my ‘phone and money: thank God, the person to whom they tried to sell the ‘phone was my friend, and he helped to trace them, and I have my ‘phone back. Just two days ago a man was killed in Mazabuka and had his heart and other parts of his body removed. The world has become an unsafe place for us to live, and this is why we should pray for the soon return of our Lord Jesus to establish the Kingdom, so that all the present difficulties will be over. Come, Lord Jesus!
It came to me as wonderful news when I read that you are planning to print the whole Bible, with Duncan’s commentary. I guess this is a useful preaching tool, as many in Africa do not have a Bible of their own. It is always a good idea to listen to the preacher alongside our Bibles, so that we taste and prove all things in righteousness and truth.
Bro. Gideon Hankomone
MUFULIRA
Greetings in the hope of Israel we share. I am happy at Mufulira Ecclesia with the Brethren and Sisters there.
Thank you very much for sending us 12 Bibles, which we will put to good use. Being in the will of God you are secure, but if you are not doing God’s will and that of His Son Jesus Christ, you are in danger.
Bro. Fred Mumba
Sister Thresses’s illness is going on and on. Bro. David saw her when they came to Zambia from U.K. Bro. Kombe, also knows about it. Thank you for the Gospel News 2011 and a New Testament Bible. None of us are completely in charge of our own lives; we succumb to illness, our relationships sometimes go wrong, we lose our partners and our parents by death and in the end we die too, unless Jesus comes back soon and gives us peace in the Kingdom. To us who are in Christ death is not the end. Unemployment is everywhere on earth.
Bro Charles Daka
MUZOKA
While time goes on it’s indeed time to trust in the Lord for everything, for every bondage that we may be enduring will surely soon be over. Our prayers will not be left unheard as Jesus will surely be with us soon, to rescue us all! So we need not get tired, or lose heart; let’s keep on learning, for without knowledge we might be moved away from wisdom and understanding which keep us from fearing the things of the world.
I was pleased and grateful to receive the Gospel News, which helps us all to share the experiences of others around us. It’s important to reach out to others in any way possible, sharing both our sad and good news worldwide, perhaps more than this, sharing ‘the word’ to others in isolation, due to unpleasant circumstances beyond our comprehension, is very important. Such people may depend on reading to keep in touch with the rest of the world, and to learn about things happening in mission areas. Learning of other people’s situations thus helps to find solutions for both growth in His work and ministry.
It is true that all things work together for good for those who love God. So we need to be careful – it’s quite possible to turn away from the love of God and sincere paths; the busyness of life can get in the way. ‘We shall be conquerors’ (Rom.8:35, 37-39.) He is unfailing – He can command wind to ‘blow,’ or to ‘stop,’ and who are we to ignore His love and His power to help us lose seemingly unconquerable habits, unsolvable problems that continuously hinder us from His ways? We ought to stand firm. Let’s look up to Daniel (1:8, 4:27): do not compromise, and you shall surely stand firm.
Bro. Wilfred Chibomba
NDOLA
I send my warm greetings to CAT for the good job they are doing in spreading the good news of the Gospel to everyone giving them the opportunity to be part of the Kingdom of God. Let us be transformed and turn away from evil to be good people.
The Mosaic Law was hard to follow, but in this time we have our Mediator, Jesus Christ, who speaks to our Heavenly Father, God, on our behalf. We should develop a habit of praying every day. Daniel prayed three times a day, morning, afternoon and evening: today is the day God gives. Sometimes we tend to forget praying. Read Psalm 55:17.
Bro. James Mwanza
BULAWAYO
The coloured Gospel News is a great improvement. Before reading its pages you get attracted by it, and it makes you eager to read and digest its contents for spiritual maturity and uplifting.
Here in Zimbabwe we are fine, but seeing the chaos taking place in this wicked world. The world has become a playground for wars starting from the so-called developed countries and the Middle East, then here in Africa. These are the signs of the times mentioned in Matthew 24.
It’s a good idea to have a Bible of our true teaching rather than some paraphrased ones with theological teachings that contradict with the accuracy of the original Scriptures. These new versions are not properly translated, and make people think they are reliable and trustworthy. (Read Isaiah 55:11) We ought to learn the truth of the Bible from the true inspired and written work of the prophets (Jeremiah 36:2) and apostles (2 Peter 1:21). Many Bible translations are now being printed, but some of them have lost their values, as they seem not to teach the actual words in regard to God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the so-called paradise (the after-life), heaven-going and more.
Bro. Ambrose Tanyepana
CHEGUTU
God says we need to go, preach the Word and let all in the world know the message. As a matter of fact, it is our duty as dearly loved children to obey the Father.
Jonah was told by God to go to the people of Nineveh and proclaim His message to them:
Jonah 1:2: “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me”. It is the command of God. The word ‘Go’ has power for all those whom God wants to use. Abraham was told to leave his country (Gen.12:1) “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you”. ‘Going’ is all that matters in obeying God and thereafter the blessings come.
Are we obeying the Word, or do we seem to not want to preach the Word? We look at ourselves, and at the people around and think to leave them, though God is saying ‘Preach to them’. Jonah ran away, but great problems struck him. Let us all look at our own ways and make good for others.
God told Moses to go (Ex.3:10): “So now go, I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt”. Yes, God wants us to preach the gospel so that those in darkness may come out and receive God’s glory. The mission is for us to ‘Go’ and thereafter we receive our rewards. We shy away from what God wants us to do. It’s our own fault, as already the Word had been told to us and what is only left is for the command ‘Go’ to be fulfilled. All we need to do is to understand that God wants us to be His obedient children. May the God of grace help us in our journey.
Bro. Farai Phiri
CHIPINGE
It’s now winter here and winter is very, very cold. All of our fruit trees are dead because of frost.
On 10th July 2011 we had a baptism of Bro. Shukuru Isa of Tongogara refugee camp. He is originally from the Congo and he studies the Truth using Bible Basics. The literature that you sent I gave them, and it is our hope that it will be put to good use for the advancement of the Truth.
We are very pleased also to report the baptism on May 29th of Bre. Shadreck Mapondo, and Shadmore Mapondo: they are twin brothers; and Sisters Saliwe Takawandirwa and Chiedra Bingepinge. These sisters were both studying the Truth through the Bible Education Centre programme. We pray for God’s richest blessing on our newly baptised members for the Kingdom. We now number 8 Christadelphians who will meet for a breaking of bread every Sunday at our farm.
I also would take this opportunity to thank Bro. Admore at Masvingo rural who helped us with interviews as well as the word of exhortation.
Bro. Moses Dhlakama
CHISHUMBA
Warmest greetings to you and all brothers and sisters who seek to spread the light of God’s word by producing preaching material. Brother Marcus, thank you so much for the number of books you sent me, which I am happy to receive.
Chishumba ecclesia is a big one, and we don’t have enough material to help us preach, even using private libraries; but our brothers and sisters are working very hard to preach the true gospel. Chishumba Ecclesia was formed from large churches surrounding us, and it was difficult to form one part of another church. But we worked hard to spread the true gospel and now we have a big ecclesia in Zimbabwe, but still putting more effort into spreading the Word of God the Almighty.
In my Bible research and study I faced questions which were difficult for me to understand, but now I have books to help answer these questions. I was always writing to the U.K. for answers, but now the book “Wrested Scriptures,” the daily readings, books like “The Real Christ” and “The Real Devil” help with answers. So now I have been able to offer 8 Bible Basics to another ecclesial student study group.
Please continue to help us – we are Africans who want to learn more about God’s Kingdom.
Bro. Misheck Hondoma
CHIVI
This is the second letter to you, brother, with news to be included in Gospel News. Yes, life sometimes can be harsh or hard to bear. But consider your life to be like a grain of sand on the beach: a grain of sand can move unnoticed to the eye. I use this concept when you want to do something, but are afraid. God gives us this life, but we are evil and sinners. However, it is an ultimate challenge, not a race to the finish – rather a process of continual growth. I have to try, by all means, to pull through this challenge, but I fail. What I love most is to be honest in this dishonest world and serve God sincerely (Phil.4:8, Prov.16:16).
Brother, my life is full of downward trends. I try to improve but things always fall down upon me. I took my ‘O’ levels in 1999 and managed to pass five subjects. When I was in Byo in 2006 I lost my birth certificate and ‘O’ level certificate due to theft. Now I am trying to look for a better job, but without the certificate that is in vain.
Bro. Dzingai Sumburera
GURUVE
Here in our area at the growth point, waiting to board a bus to Guruve to collect mail at the Post Office, we see evidences of the ways of the world, as we board buses at night to any destination. It is a remote area and also a rural area which is not yet developed. There are bottle stores nearby and you find young ladies enjoying themselves with men. I wonder why these people don’t think of AIDS? Some of these young ladies are of school age.
They do not want to hear anything about the Word of God. Indeed, where are we heading? Do they think that Jesus will one day arrive? You could end up saying ‘why did God create night?’ He could have created day only, because during the night evils take place. Truly we are sick and tired of this way of life. People do not realise that there is a God, and do not think that there is life after death.
So let us preach day and night so that we, and others, may have a chance to survive. Truly when Jesus comes many will feel sorry, as will the Jews when our Lord comes.
Bro. Nice Yotamu
Many evil events each and every day are reported all around the world. These things remind us that the return of the Lord Jesus is around the corner. Matthew 24:12 says, ‘And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.’ This is a special warning to all of us, brothers and sisters: we must be ready to welcome our Master, without any blame. We must continue to preach the gospel of the Kingdom, as there are many who may yet be called to his Name – so let us not grow cold.
As our journey has not yet come to an end, we must stand firm, as when we first received the gospel. If we feel we are growing cold, Revelation 2:4 tells us, “I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen, repent, and do the works you did at first. If not I will remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent”. So there we are, brethren and sisters, we all know when we fall. Let’s get back to our first works and push away this coldness from us.
Bro. Fanuel Mawodzeka
HARARE
I have enclosed a photograph of some of the members of Harare ecclesia taken some years back. Some of the members are still with us today, but sadly some are not.
Present world events are pointing to the nearness of the coming of Christ. There are wars and rumours of wars. Full wars and civil wars are being fought in many parts of the world. The situation is so volatile, and is only short of a wide-scale conflict.
In other parts of the world there are earthquakes and great loss of life and huge destruction to property. Signs of Christ’s coming are so clear, especially to the Bible student who is keen to read his Bible, and also watchful so that these things won’t overtake him without his/her knowledge.
It may take time before Christ appears. By then a lot more things will have passed. Today’s world is so uncertain. We ought always to be prepared for the unknown and eventualities. Sudden occurrences or emergencies are of great concern to us all.
Little did I know that I would be separated by death from my wife and baby. God works for us in mysterious ways. And it is also our great duty to serve Him always. He knows what is best for each of us – after all His will is to be followed accordingly, and also to be done.
Bro. Alexio Kajowe
Harare Ecclesia a few years ago
Thank you for the pocket Bibles. Our Brothers and Sisters were so pleased to have them. I went to my rural house to help with harvesting what God has provided for us in our fields. God provided my family with enough crops to feed them. I thank my wife for the work she did alone. Not alone as such, but with God’s grace she managed more jobs while I was employed about 400Kms from home: Harare-Nyanga.
While on my leave I managed to meet Brother and Sister Moore who visited our Ecclesia. We had a good day sharing the living Word. We must not forget that we are living in a world of troubles. Without the protection of the Lord we will not succeed in these troubles caused by earthly man.
Everything that happens in this world happens at the time God chooses. Eccl.3:1. The world now is not in good order. But Bible readers know that God sets every matter with its time. We should learn the words of Solomon: Eccl.3:1-8. What is happening nowadays in Africa, Asia etc. should not worry us, for it is the chosen time by God. V.11 He has set the right time for everything. He has given us a desire to know the future, but never gives us a full understanding of what he does. v.12 “All we can do is to be happy and do the best we can while we live”. V.13: “We should eat and drink and enjoy what we have worked for – it is God’s gift.’ If all the nations of this world knew the words of the teacher Solomon, peace would be all over the world; to know that what they are fighting for is only chasing the wind. Eccl.2:16-18 – “No-one remembers the wise, and no-one remembers the fool. In days to come, we will all be forgotten. We must all die, wise and foolish alike. So life comes to mean nothing to me, because everything in it had brought me nothing but trouble. It had all been useless; I had been chasing the wind”.
What is causing problems on earth nowadays? People are lovers of money rather than of God. Solomon wrote, Eccl.5:10-13 “If you love money, you will never be satisfied; if you long to be rich, you will never get all you want. It is useless. The richer you are, the more mouths you must feed. All you gain is knowledge that you are rich”.
When God created the world, He wanted man to be happy and enjoy his gifts from God. But man by self-loving has destroyed the gift of peace with God and followed the deceitfulness of greed. So, like today, the love of money is more than the love of Christ, who suffered for us on the cross; man is still behaving like Judas, who betrayed Jesus for the sake of money. My last words to my Brothers and Sisters come from the letter to the Galatians (5:24-26): “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have put to death their human nature with all its passions and desires. The Spirit has given us life, it must also control our lives. We must not be proud nor irritate one another, or be jealous of one another”.
Bro. Israel Mutunduwe
God created man in His own image so that man can carry His likeness. Man was a creature of dominion to dominate and take rule over everything else that had been created. The man was Adam. The first man, Adam, later lost the dominion by sinning. But thank God for His master-plan, that mankind did not remain lost.
God’s plan was forof restoration. He sent His Son to die on the cross and restore that which was lost (Luke 19:10). He fully accomplished this mission when he declared on the cross, “It is finished” (John 19:30), and on the third day Jesus rose from the dead. A new beginning was ushered in. 2 Cor.5:17 tells us, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away.”
Bro. Calvin Chitano
Thank you very much for the NEV New Testaments sent to us. I have enclosed a ‘photo of our brothers and sisters in Christ who have received these, although unfortunately some who received them were not with us when the ‘photo was taken. At our ecclesia everyone is now happy and enjoying the New Testament Bibles and our Bible study is in motion with their help.
Let’s look at 2 Tim.3:v.16-17: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
May God bless you in spreading the Gospel. We are requesting some of the Bibles, if possible, for visitors who usually come who are not yet baptised.
Bro. Johannes John
Some of the Harare members with their New Testaments.
Thank you very much for your kindness, responding to my request for the address of Bro. Steve and Sis. Ruth Moore, as this really worked. I wrote to them telling them of my problems and in turn they replied, telling me they were coming to visit Zimbabwe. I went to Harare ecclesia in April and met them. We broke bread together with all Brothers and Sisters around Harare, and I went home full of gladness and much happier. They brought with them my reading glasses, which I really appreciate, as now I am able to read at night by a paraffin lamp. But I did not have time to discuss things with them because so many brothers and sisters wished to talk with them: they had a hard time trying to meet some of the students and interview them, so that’s how my problems could not be heard. Truly they had busy days here. But I’m helped by our Lord, who is caring for me always.
Someone was interested to read one of my books, and chose one which I had not finished reading, ‘The Real Devil.’ He asked me if he could borrow it for a few days, and took it to his home, but since then he has never returned it. While I am in need of it, I tried to trace him but don’t know his whereabouts, so I feel that it will never be returned. So, if it is possible, would you kindly send me another copy? That book helped me a lot in preaching, questioning and answering people of other sects, who are on their way to learning the Truth.
Bro. Maxwell Mlakah
MAGUNGE
We have been made in the image of God and so should reflect as far as possible, God’s character. However, we are naturally sinful creatures and fail to reflect in our lives, as we should, the Godly characteristics. Fortunately there is forgiveness with God, but we must strive continually to serve Him.
Having obtained God’s mercy, we should show this to others. Galatians 6:1-2: “If one of your Brothers or Sisters is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ”. Then those who look after widows and their children are told to share with them what they have. In Gal.5:19-21 we are told that those who do wrong and do not repent will never inherit the Kingdom of God, and so cannot be in the image of God.
God allowed His Son to be crucified for our sins and told us that he did this to teach us about sin and self-control. We must avoid sin and learn God’s ways of love and doing good. We are prone to sin in our present nature, and we can choose whether we sin or are righteous, but God knows all our natural tendencies and how we live our lives. He has sent us His Word in Scripture to teach and help us to see and learn the way we should follow Jesus, as we are the sons of God.
Let us thank God for His love and plans for us to live, following Jesus’ example, and so receive everlasting life in the coming Kingdom. His purpose was for His Son, Jesus, to die for us to have our sins forgiven. We must resist wrong-doing and pray that God will hear and forgive us if we fail. Let us enjoy God’s love and seek everlasting life today and tomorrow.
Bro. Misheck Hondoma
MT. DARWIN
The Government has not started building on our old hall site. Thank you for the New Testament Bible. I am very glad because my husband is about to finish the course and my two elder children are doing the course too.
My right eye is going inside, so I was referred to Parerenyatwa Hospital eye unit, but it’s not so painful. I have now had the same problem for 13 years, but nothing is impossible with God. Faith will heal me (Matt.6:25-34). I ask only for your prayers.
Sis. Esther Chigiji
RATELSHOEK
Brothers and Sisters, I am grieving very much after the falling asleep of my Father, Mr. Joel Tafirenyika Mhindu Madhimba, who passed away after a long illness at Mpengo village in Mozambique. We are going to miss him for his wise words in Gospel preaching. May the Lord Jesus Christ remember him at his second coming, to establish an everlasting Kingdom here on earth. It will be a great pleasure for all of us to be in that Kingdom, to rule with him in righteousness.
In my last letter (April-July) I was expecting a transfer, but it was God’s will that it should fail, except Bro. Farai Makandeni is now at Jersey Tea Estate and I remained here at Ratelshoek. But we always meet each other for our fellowship and Breaking of Bread meetings at Rimbi Ecclesia, Tanganda Halt and Christine Farm, and at Bro. Moses Dhlakama’s Farm.
Brothers and Sisters, let’s keep on praying, for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ is near. The destiny of humanity is bound up in the future of Jerusalem. If that is not recognized, the Bible is not understood. Jerusalem is described by Christ as “the city of the great King”, (Matt.5:35) and is destined at his coming to become the metropolis of the world (Zech.14:16). It will then be known as “the city of Truth” (Zech.8:3); the “joy of the whole earth”, (Psalm 48:2); the metropolis of Christ’s reign (Isaiah 24:23); where he will sit in glory with his resurrected and glorified apostles, (Luke 1:31-33; Matt.19:28).
But before that time when world peace and equity will come, the world will be purged of its wickedness by the fires of Armageddon. It is not God’s desire that man should suffer; but man turns his back upon God and ‘sowing to the winds, will reap the whirlwind.’ The nations are busily preparing self emulation; they are expending their wealth in the manufacture or purchase of weapons of destruction, capable of wiping out life itself from the earth. Even nations of the ‘Third World’, whose populations face starvation, are busily spending money they cannot afford on weapons of destruction.
However, the signs of the times all point to the fact that Armageddon is looming. The modern revival of Israel, political antagonism in the Middle East, the divided state of the nations, are all the subject of Bible prophecy; they are signs indicating the imminence of Christ’s return. He will return to establish on earth an epoch of divine glory and peace, when the message of the angels at Christ’s birth will be fulfilled. “Glory to God in the highest; peace on earth and goodwill towards men,” and the Lord’s prayer will be wonderfully answered “Thy Kingdom come, that thy will may be done on earth as it is in heaven.”
Bro. Simon Madhimba
Bro. Simon Madhimba (right) holding a radio, and Bro. Farai Makhandeni at work (Ratelshoek Tanganda Tea Company).
TONGOGARA REFUGEE CAMP
We are Swahili-speaking refugees in Zimbabwe (Tongogara refugee camp). We are now seven of us Christadelphian baptised Brothers and Sisters, and some others still on baptism lessons. The total number of us all is 27 now, but still struggling for meeting place and chairs. Not only that, but also Bibles and Hymn Books. As to the Bible Basics we received, we really appreciate them. We are very much willing to teach others around us the truth, but our resources are very limited as refugees.
Bro. Nondo Mutambala.
TRIANGLE
I thank CAT for the New Testament Bibles. They are of great help to me since I am working with some new students who have just joined the Triangle meeting. Please do send me more, or anything else that may help. It’s high time the world was shown the Truth in the Bible.
Many thanks to Bro. and Sis. Moore for coming to Zimbabwe on 10.5.11. We really had a good time together at Dunuza P. School, Triangle.
We started by reading Ex.25 and learnt a lot about the Tabernacle. We also learnt about the New Covenant and all its meaning. The Mosaic rituals pointed forward to Christ and were fulfilled in His death and resurrection. Heb.9:11-12: ‘Christ having become the High Priest of the good things to come, through the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands; that is to say not of this creation, nor yet through the blood of goats and calves, but through His blood; He entered in once for all into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption.’
Bro. Servious Makendo
