News from Africa
| NEWS FROM BURUNDI |  |
Nkanda Sunday School
| NEWS FROM KENYA | |
BUNGOMA | Bro Martin Sibolo Situma
I was pleased to receive the current Gospel News and of course also the Logos magazine. In our ecclesia we have six students who are preparing for baptism and other Sunday School readers who are quite familiar or acquainted with reading Swahili. So we shall be happy if you will send us Swahili New Testaments and if possible include two copies of the whole Bible either in Swahili or English and also a copy of the Christadelphian hymn book if available.
The Lord Jesus said that the harvest is plentiful but the labourers are few and that is the situation we are in. It is of course the Lord himself that gives the increase to our labours. So it is appropriate for us to pray always for help from the Lord and the Lord will one day say, “Well done, faithful servant, since you have been faithful in the small things, I will make you ruler over many” and so the Lord will give us finally the required recompense.
Many people are disturbed at the troubles in the world at the moment but we do believe that these are just indications of the return of the Lord Jesus Christ to the earth. He is soon coming in order to establish the Kingdom of God as predicted by the prophets of God.
SANGALO MARKET | Bro Fred Comfort Namunju
The church I started at Sangalo Market is continuing and we have started to raise a meeting place for we have been worshipping our God under the tree. Pictured above: The Church meeting under a tree
BUNGOMA | Bro Laban Kisaka
Much greetings in the name of our Master soon to reign on earth. I am very much grateful for the Gospel News that you keep on sending to me, actually I lack words to express my deep sense of gratitude. I am looking for a way of sending you some photos that were recently taken during the Bible Class at The Progressive Centre in Nairobi.
Sisters’ Camp at North Nyanza
DAGO | Bro Raphael Joni Aimo
Jesus told his followers in John 16:16, “A little while you will see me no more and then a little while and you will see me.” It does not matter how many years the Lord has been absent, to God a thousand years is the same as one day and we know that Jesus will return one day to establish God’s Kingdom.
So our discipleship is a journey which we must undertake for us to reach our destination safely. Paul told the Galatians not to grow weary of doing good as in due course they would reap rewards if they did not give up. It is applicable to us as well as the Galatians, Gal. 6:9-10.
So let us be steadfast and obedient to God’s Word without murmuring, and show our faith which we have attained in Christ, our Lord, to others too.
The Bible tells us that the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are open to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil (1 Peter 3:12).
Our Lord’s coming is near indeed as we see events unfolding now. Rev. 3:20 tells us, “Behold, I am standing at the door and knock.” May He find us worthy of the Kingdom when He returns. May God bless us all as we journey towards the Kingdom.
A group of brethren after the Memorial Service. Bro Joshua Ooma Ayul, one of their oldest brothers and a great defender of the Scriptures, in the centre with open Bible
ELDORET | Bro Jacob O’Koth
It is our earnest expectation and cherished hope that through our Lord’s victory on the cross we may, through repentance and baptism, obtain salvation in the Kingdom.
I would congratulate CAT on the good work it does, its stand and hope in reflecting the great certainty about the coming Kingdom. May our Lord lead you to understand our situation economically in Kenya, especially our work in the vineyard. I pray and am still eager, that I may be able to run a rabbit and chicken project as I have told you before.
KISUMU | Bro Richard Oduma
Gospel News is really enjoyable. Thank you for the hard work of CAT making sure that the Word reaches every corner of this world. In Kisumu Ecclesia we have a number of contacts who are not able to read or understand English, mostly the street boys who are getting instruction and some are nearing baptism. I hope that these translated Kiswahili Bibles will be of great help to them. Please send 20 copies of Kiswahili and 10 copies of English if possible.
My brother there has no way opened up to us to assist helping these needy kids who are attending our services and their number is increasing following the interest they have to know the truth. We still seek your prayers and advice to help solve the little we can do.
Bro Richard Oduma
North Nyanza Youth Camp
North Nyanza Elders Forum
MADIANY | Bro Gordon Ochieng
My spirit is still with those in Riga, Latvia. Even though I might not be able to join them in person, I do remember them in my prayers. I would have joined them to teach, cook and clean but resources are unavailable. Pass my warm regards to the entire team in the Lord’s Name.
My wife, Sis Mary Ochieng and our daughter Macrine
The North Nyanza area has 14 ecclesias – 214 brethren, 186 sisters, 110 friends and 347 Sunday School children. I am writing to you voluntarily after the elders pleaded to me that most of their members don’t get Gospel literature. They asked me to take this up and communicate with the Trust over this. Of late they have benefited from NEV Bibles, leaflets and books like The Real Devil and The Real Christ, but only a few ecclesias have received a copy of these books. Please take this into consideration since my aim is to let the Spirit Word concerning God’s promise of eternal life in the soon coming Kingdom reach as many as possible. In this area (North Nyanza) we speak three different mother tongues – Luo, Maragoli, Kalenjin. The two unifying languages are Kiswahili and English, so there is need for more Kiswahili Bibles since we do conduct our fraternals, Sisters’ Conferences and Bible Schools together.
MBITA | Bro Daniel Ogembo
I was born in a family who were Pentecostal and was baptized when I was 5 years old. When I was old enough I joined a Spiritual Church (Roho-Roho Israel) and I was crowned a bishop and I was called a prophet. In 1996 I visited Bro Samuel Matete Masawa and he started teaching me the gospel and I found that the things that I had believed were not the true gospel. So Samuel introduced me to a tutor who was the late Sis Julia Mebey. She taught me and I was baptized in 2000 at Kabubu Ecclesia by Bro Oderi from Kiagware Ecclesia and interviewed by Sis Tania. Now I am waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ to give us eternal life.
NAITIRI | Bro Masong’o Harron
Brothers, CAT is doing a great job, especially bringing light to people who had not known the true gospel. I am grateful for the book you sent to me “Teach Me Thy Way”, which is great and I know it is going to be helpful to us as an ecclesia. I have begun reading it and I know it is going to help others too.
TARBO | Sis Beatrice Wanjala
Thank you for the book “Teach Me Thy Way” which is a very good book. Please send 18 more copies which will help our youth and friends.
Sis Beatrice Wanjala (in white suit) with some of the young people of the Tarbo Ecclesia.
SINDO | Bro John Owalo Onani
I am happy that what God required from us is not money but being faithful, obedient to the truth, listening to His voice, to have a good relationship with the Heavenly Father, to love Him with all our mind and heart, and to love our fellow human beings, walking with the word every day (Micah 6:8; Deuteronomy 10:12-13; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).
God wants us to fear Him and keep His commandments, because whatever good or bad we do is written in the book of life. Why are we weak to respond to what our Father in heaven wants? The Bible reveals that our mind, thoughts and heart are evil, corrupt and deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9). I therefore exhort my brothers/sisters in the world to be strong and courageous and read the Word daily for spiritual growth (Joshua 1:8).
Every minute, hour, second, day, week and year, whatever you do is what makes your entry in the book of life. If you relax, you might think of a murderer like Cain, but it is much better to concentrate and for your thoughts to be of love, like Abel, then the righteous God will accept you into the kingdom (Genesis 4; 1 John 3:11-12).
TURBO | Bro Emmanuel Milimo
Firstly, I would like to thank you for your family’s photo. It was received with both hands by my family, and the whole ecclesia. The work you are working is very great in these last days to spread the true gospel. Much thanks, particularly for the Swahili New Testament edition. My ecclesia is very happy, especially as the aged brothers and sisters can read only Kiswahili, for it is the national communication language in our society. These Swahili Bibles will help them to study well and understand what they can tell their families and friends.
We pray that our Almighty Father in heaven may give you blessings so that the whole Bible can be translated. In Kenya, the Bible is very expensive so many brothers and sisters cannot afford them. Those who are in need are 8 brothers and 14 sisters, making 22 in total.
I enclose photos of our recent activities. We had a Youth Camp in our R/Valley area, with 460 youths from all our ecclesias. On the closing day, brothers and sisters joined them, making 1150 in total. It was something that had never been done in Kenya before. I would like to thank all.
Photos of the Youth Camp are on the front and back covers and page 22.
TONGAREN | Bro Isaac Kapa
In one way or another we can all relate to Psalm 86:1 when David says “I am poor and needy.” Even the richest among us should understand that poverty needs relate more to spirit than to the wallet. Even millionaires should often say, “I am just a sinner saved by grace.” Psalm 86 tells us that the help God provides is not measured by money. When we acknowledge that we are poor and needy it is not so that God will lavish material riches on us, we do so to open the doors to other, more valuable treasures.
Here is what God does for the poor and needy; “He will preserve our lives and save all those who trust Him.” (v.2). He will be merciful and ready to forgive, (v.3,5). He will listen to and answer our prayers, (v.6-7). We ought to take God’s blessing with giving back. We have responsibility to learn God’s ways, walk in His Truth, fear God’s Name “praise the Lord and glorify His Name” (v.1112).
Do you consider yourself among the “poor and needy”? If so, welcome to Tongaren where the poor and needy are many. Let’s not forget the spiritual blessings God has for us and the godly response we should have toward his generosity.
The poorest man is he who lacks God’s words in his mind.
Bro Isaac Kapa with Agape sponsored children
| NEWS FROM MALAWI | |
CHIKWAWA | Charles Moses
One day, I visited my relatives who live in Ngabu. There I saw a certain man was reading a book called ‘Bible Basics’. I begged him to lend me the book for one day so that I could read interesting topics for myself. Fortunately he permitted me to do so. The book explains the principles of the Bible very clearly without hiding truth and makes them easy to understand. I am sure that if you send me that book and other such books for spiritual growth they will elevate my spiritual life.
As for now, I am looking for a Christadelphian church around my home area to join and start worshipping the Heavenly Father in spirit and truth.
Finally, I will be very glad if my requests are considered and responded to rapidly. May God bless your ministry even more. I extend my greeting to each of you.
Charles Moses P.O. Box 145, Nchalo, Chikwawa, Malawi
BALAKA | Bro Lyton John
The present balance of power in the world is split between many nations, some strong and some weak. Daniel saw a little stone hit the image on the feet, destroying it and itself growing into a great mountain which filled the whole earth. This stone represented Jesus. The mountain which He will create all over the earth represents the everlasting Kingdom of God which will be established at his second coming. This prophecy is in itself proof that the Kingdom will be on earth and not in heaven.
CHILEKA | Bro Kenneth Maganger
Many thanks for the Gospel News magazine you sent to me which I am enjoying reading. Please keep it up! The material you send us is encouraging us in our spiritual life as the name Barnabas means “Son of encouragement” or “Son of consolation”, (Acts 11:2223). Therefore we are to encourage one another and even to comfort each other in times of difficulties.
We are now in the summer season when we experience hot temperatures. The sun is now overhead and we have long days and short nights.
I would like to let you know that we have received the gift of a baby boy, our fourth child. His name is Patison and he is growing well. God is looking after him well.This means we have now three boys and one girl.
CHIMIMBE | Sister Maicook
Bricks were finished to mould, preparing for the erection next year of our Ecclesial Hall. Fields are also finished for cultivating, where we will plant maize, groundnuts and soya beans. Money from crops like these will provide money for iron roof sheeting for the Ecclesial Hall and also food for the children at CBCC. Some maize will be the start pack for all sisters, brothers, elderly and disabled who have joined us in our church.
Half an acre of maize needs four large bags of fertiliser, weight 50kgs each, 1 seedling of maize per planting station, 25cm apart. Every church member will donate 3kgs of fertilizer.
We need your best wishes therefore by buying two bags of fertilizer which will mean that you have built the Ecclesial Hall with us, the brethren and sisters at Chimimbe. The following are some verses about, “COME SUDDENLY” (Malachi 3:1) Come suddenly again, O Lord, Your temple waits for You today. Come in accordance with Your Word, Come suddenly even when we pray. O blessed, blessed Christ bring the revival we need most.
Most graciously our hearts prepare for your great work in this our day. Help each of us to do our share, remove each hindrance from your way. O Jesus our hearts inspire, descend in all your holy fire.
We need you more than we can tell, we need you more than we can say. Our worldliness and sin dispel, come cleanse and fill us all we pray. O Jesus, come on us now as we in need before you bow.
We pray Lord, light the flame once more of Spiritual revival fire, Come now as in the days of long ago (yore) for we wait with great desire. Come suddenly upon your own and make your presence known.
Come suddenly and do much more than we can do in months and years. We plead your mercy, ever we praise you that revival nears. Come Jesus, descend today come suddenly on us, we pray today.
Bro and Sis Aaron James
DZALEKA | Bro Shadreck Ngambi
Job said, “I know that my redeemer lives and at the end he will stand upon the earth.” He said this after he had lost all his treasures, his children died, his body disfigured and even his wife told him to curse God and die. A redeemer is someone who can rescue your life from a dangerous situation or even from death. I believe that I can imagine the situation that Job was facing at that time was more than death. With his great problems, a very bad situation, Job spoke words of faith and said, “I know that my redeemer lives and at the end he will stand upon the earth.”And really at the end God remembers Job.
My brothers and sisters, if you face problems, bad situations, people break your heart, don’t worry, know that your redeemer lives. If he remembered Job, he will remember you, if he rescued Job, he will rescue your life.
Bro Shadrack Ngambi Dzaleka Ref. Camp, P.O.Box 31711, Lilongwe, Malawi
KASUNGU | Sis Bertha Khonje
I am concerned that I have taken so long without writing to you. This was because of the pressure I had on postal services. We were told that there will be no more services through Bua which we have used for many years. I have now arranged to use Box 190 at Kasungu, but it is a long way from where I live.
May God bless you and all the Trust with all the good work you provide to all nations for the truth about salvation.
With love in one hope I remain your sister in Christ.
Sis Bertha Khonje
KADEWERE | Bro Kenneth Maganger
Thanks for the two CDs which contain the gospel information. The two Gospel News books you enclosed are also helpful. The DVDs are useful for listening and I would like you to send a higher quality version as you mentioned as I find them very helpful, so please keep it up. The postal charges here have increased and it is difficult for me to send letters to you due to financial problems but sometimes I will try to do so.
Heavy rain caused floods in some parts, in some districts. Due to the floods crops were swept away such as maize, rice and many more. Some domestic animals were also swept away. My house top also collapsed and now I am planning to build another one.
In Colossians 3:17 we read, “Whatever you do, in word or in action, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God, the Father, through Him.” In chapter 4 verse 2 we read, “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgivings”.
LILONGWE | Bro Samson Makina
I am pleased to report the baptism of Brothers DZIWANANI MPHERD and BOTCHA SOSOLA both from Mtenthera Ecclesia and Sisters DANJANA BAYSON from Kadase Ecclesia and VERONICA MWANA from Falls Ecclesia.
God bless them and us as we walk patiently towards the Kingdom of God coming soon.
| NEWS FROM MOZAMBIQUE | |
Bro Emmanuel Maugenti
The Mozambique Government was preparing to go for a national election so postal movement was restricted. Right now I am in Zimbabwe where I am visiting my wife and family. My wife was not feeling well of late but thank God is recovering now. So I will be going back to Mozambique soon and would like to take this opportunity to ask you if you could possibly send us literature for the Sunday School and some Portuguese hymn books as some of our brethren and sisters speak Portuguese. Right now we are mostly using Shona hymn books which I requested from Zimbabwe. Kindly send us more literature to help us in the work of following up Gospel proclamation.
| NEWS FROM NIGERIA | |
IBADAN | Bro Timothy Temilola
I am most grateful for all your continued fatherly help with your emails and Carelinks Updates and the sound expositions in the Gospel News Magazine, Bible Basics and other literature.
Thank you so much for the very old copy of the Christadelphian Magazine and booklets received - I am still finding them all very helpful to me in my personal study of God’s word, thereby enhancing my grasp of some Bible passages tainted by translator’s bias and encouraging me in my daily Christian walk with God.
IKWUEKE | Bro Friday Enyiogu
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)
If our individual meditation produces concrete action, we shall make up the bride of Christ in that age soon to come.
But let virtue not beauty be the primary object, set true happiness against charm. Remember that external choice was the cause of the destruction of the world (Gen.6:2-7). So don’t let that choice destroy your world.
MBAISE | Bro Blessing Mwigwe
Thank you for your letters and books like Gospel News, Teach Me Thy Way and Demons which I received today. God bless you and the work you are doing. Last time I wrote to you about problems facing us in this world like virus diseases, Aids, Sass. Laser fever, Ebola, for which there is no cure for some of them or way to prevent them, and in which WHO is talking about stopping treating those affected. This Ebola virus is in West Africa. Others like earthquake, war – which are in Syria and Iraq. Bombing attacks as in Nigeria like Bokoharam in Northern Nigeria etc. We are praying to God not to allow these to affect any of our brethren and sisters worldwide.
We are living in the last days waiting for the return of our Lord to this earth to establish his Kingdom. We in Mbaise ecclesia are praying for you and your ecclesia, family, country etc. Try to do so for us.
MBAISE | Bro Adolphe Effiony
The Gospel News of September to December 2014 with Editorial “We must change” is very interesting. I thank God for you so much for the strength He has given you for the great work you are doing for all nations. May the Lord continue to strengthen and protect you and your family. It is only the Lord that can reward you. You have opened the eyes of people to know things concerning the Kingdom.
OHAFIA | Bro Gaius Uka Egwu
Thank you so much for the Gospel News this month. It is always so good to read such encouragement and uplift from brothers and sisters across the globe. In fact, it is a wonderful way we are preparing for the soon coming Kingdom (the new Jerusalem). My prayer is that we shall all behold each other face to face in the Holy City. Please let us not grow weary in doing good as we see the day approaching.
I am asking if there is any way we can help our young ones from watching today’s movies (worldly films). It would really help our future community. Mostly we in this remote third world area really need your help to guide our children from such things. Meanwhile, I am strongly appealing to you to send more messages/films on C.D/D.V.D. or memory cards which we can play and watch on our T.V./USB. We must be really careful (Psalm 101) and be watchful for the spirit of Sodom and her sister Gomorrah is all over the earth again.
Finally, my outreach programme will take off this October to December. I will be visiting inmates (prison/hospital) schools, motor parks and market places; therefore kindly please join me in prayers and send materials like Bibles, books and leaflets.
OWERRINTE | Bro Iheanacho Ihejinika
I am extremely happy with the latest book, “Teach Me Thy Way”, which you sent to me. Any book which directs me to the knowledge of God has an unqualifiable value for me. The other enclosures were also very useful to me in my sincere quest to come close to God through His Son Jesus Christ.
Each time I recollect how I came in contact with the Christadelphians I feel happy. I term it God’s Will. Their publication in the Reader’s Digest of September 1980, page 40 paved the way for me to behold a greater light. Since then I have been channelling my life to do what is expected of me. It has not been easy as the warfare between the flesh and spirit is constant. God has been taking the glory.
My daily prayers have been done to include those who spread the Gospel throughout the world. In this wise you are remembered. The work in Carelinks and the publication of Gospel News are pointers to the selfless work being done to help humanity and to bring people to know and worship God in the true way.
It is utterly unfortunate that the degree of godlessness in our society is great. Very few people read the WORD and this has chained them to ignorance of God which is darkness. People who study the Bible daily would not be terribly afraid because godlessness is one of those things which heralds the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The violence in Nigeria is fuelled by those who hope to gain by it. Unfortunately what they expected to gain by slitting the throats of Christians and the Ibos appears to elude them. The Almighty God has been protecting us despite the evil minds of those who refused to know God and abide by his directives. Remember us in your daily prayers.
Bro Iheanacho Ihejinika
| NEWS FROM SOUTH AFRICA | |
Our beloved Sister Maria Makhado
SOWETO | Sis Leonie Verster
We are a people in mourning, for our beloved Sister Maria Makhado, the wife of our recording brother, Daniel Makhado, who died on the morning of Sunday 29 March. Sis Maria was involved tragically in a taxi accident whilst going to a funeral which left her very badly hurt. She was in ICU on life support before she died. We sat in stunned silence grieving together at the Breaking of Bread, while Bro Lucky Sekhasembe comforted us by reading “Brothers we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him.” Till we meet again dear Sister.
Sister Maria was a lovely, gentle and committed sister. We pray that God strengthens Bro Daniel and his family in this time of their tragic loss. The funeral will be held, God Willing, in Taung in the North West province on Saturday 4 April. About 45 brothers and sisters from the four ecclesias in Gauteng will, God Willing, make the five hour trek to Taung to support Bro Daniel and pay last respects to this much loved sister.
A frightening statistic was given recently. An average of 47 people die on the roads in South Africa DAILY.
| NEWS FROM TANZANIA | |
MBEYA | Bro James Mwangomo
Warmest greetings in our Christadelphian hope and the saving Name of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
All the members of my ecclesia are greeting CAT for the kind help towards the meeting. We are also very glad for the missing Bibles that you sent. Brother, don’t get tired with us whenever we request you. “A hand that gives is better than that which receives.” Again, thank you for your kind help.
MBEYA | Bro Edwaldi Mushi
Receive many greetings from us, your fellow Christians from the southern highlands of Tanzania. We have received the box of Swahili New Testament Bibles in good order.
What a joy, laughter and shoutings from the Brethren and Sisters when they saw them. We bowed, prayed and thanked God for enabling for them. I assure you they will be used as you intended.
MOROGORO | Bro Moses Ndaki
Thank you for your letter and the Gospel News you sent me. I hope you are doing well. I also thank you for your close friendship.
Since my conversion into the Christadelphian fellowship, after I learned the truth I have become an enemy of the Anglican church where I have been. Let me tell you what happened to my family.
On January 15th 2014 I lost my daughter, and leaders of the Anglican church came to see me and to observe what would follow for the burial service. I knew that, because my family are the Anglican subjects, they could bury my daughter. I heard one of the counsellor’s voices saying, “Let us see how the Christadelphians bury their dead, we are not burying his daughter due to their disobedience to God”. I summoned the Anglican church and told them that Christadelphian brothers and sisters from here and from neighbouring villages would do the work. At the burial there were many Brethren and Sisters from the nearby Ecclesias and the Anglican Church were mighty impressed at the care shown to each other by the Christadelphians.
SINZA | Bro Ayubu Suzi Kilumbi
I am very grateful since I put off my “old man” and then was clothed into Christ Jesus by baptism, twenty years ago. I then became a new man in Christ. My full instruction took five years under the instruction of Mrs Iris Cook, U.K. Also I cannot forget all who encouraged me during my Bible course. I was baptised and became a member of Dor Ecclesia and now Sinza Ecclesia. My family and I live about 18 kilometres from the City centre. As I belong to Christ Jesus I also manage to spread the Word to my neighbours, friends and near relatives, my family. As I am a teacher, I also teach a few of my students who are interested to understand the Bible. Some of them succeed and are now brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, including my wife, Anna. I am now nearly 60 years old, with three children, Winnie Ayubu (19), Nancy Ayubu (16) and Marilyn Ayubu (10 years old). My wife is 45 years old and became a Christadelphian fourteen years ago. Before that she was a Catholic. God willing my two daughters will become Christadelphians soon. Sometimes I face difficulties in this life as a retired teacher, but this situation cannot stop me spreading the Word of God to anyone who is interested to understand the Bible. It is the command of God and the Lord Jesus as well. No person or authority can stop us, see Mark 16:15-16; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 5:27-30; Acts 4:19. The Bible tells us plainly that neither politics nor wealth can cure the problems of this world, but by obeying and believing what God promises us. Meanwhile we are waiting our Master’s call on his return. Brothers and sisters in Christ, wherever in this world of chaos, let us wait for our Master “…and a new heaven and a new earth…” who shall wipe away every tear from their eyes and death shall be no more. Neither shall there be mourning, no crying nor pain any more. The first things are passed away. He that sits upon the throne said: “Behold! I make all things new.” Let us wait continuously until He comes.
Top: Bro and Sis Sazi Kilumbi
Above: A Preaching meeting in Hombolo Do Doma
The Hombolo meeting room and mothers feeding their children outside
SINZA| Mr Matey Desdery
I am pleased to tell you that I am being instructed by Mr Ayubu Kilumbi and pray that once I have completed my studies I will be baptised.
We meet every Saturday evening and would like to receive any helpful literature you can send me.
| NEWS FROM ZAMBIA | |
CHINSALI | Bro Edwin Mfula
I love reading Gospel News and articles from different brothers and sisters from all over the world. God willing, please send me 8 Bemba Bible Basics and the Holy Bible, New European Version.
* * *
Most people at some time have tremendous problems. But for us in Christ, everyday things are set in our life in relation to the noblest doctrines of our faith.
But when death comes to our family members, relatives, close friends (or even an unknown person), even we tend to fear death. We can become fearful, even desperate, even though we have made a declaration of the best faith there is. So because of the atonement and the pardon from sin, death as part of the natural order of things is put into context by our spiritual life. The highest doctrines of our faith give us a confident relationship with death, measured by the full light of the Lord Jesus’ resurrection.
Jesus Christ has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel (2 Timothy 1:10; 1 John 1:2). He is the author, of eternal salvation. In the days of his flesh, “Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death” “And he was heard because of his reverence” (Hebrews 2:10; 5:9). Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered (Hebrews 5:8), and being made perfect he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him (Hebrews 5:9).
CHINSALI | Bro Edward Mutale Choko
Thanks to God I am still breathing, but physically I am suffering but I hope that nothing can separate me from the love manifested in Jesus Christ: as Paul mentioned in Romans 8:38, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels, nor heavenly rulers, nor things that are present, nor things to come, nor power, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus Our Lord.”
CHIPATA | Bro Alfred Bwalya
Thanks very much for the Magazine which always reminds one of our brothers and sisters who we don’t even know where they are, of the good news in it. We thank Bro Glen Mitchell for sending us the Bibles. May our Almighty God continue to stretch your hands and help those who are in need both spiritually and physically, God bless.
Romans 12:10 and 13:17 and Galatians 6:2 says: ‘Carry each others’ burdens and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ and in Ephesians 4:1-4.
My house at Glens is about to be complete and it just remains to put a roof on. The rain is about to fall any day so things will be back in a good situation. Let us keep on encouraging one another through the Word of God. My family send greetings all over the world where there are brothers and sisters.
KABOMPO | Bro Godson Kafuna
The Bibles that you sent have reached our brother Reuben Kambeu. Now I gave the Bible which was supposed to be for me to our newly baptised brother who came from Watopa area which is a long way from us here in Kabompo. We gave it to him because he said he had not any Bible version to use so I thought on Christian lines and remembered the words of Romans 8:28, “All things work together for good to them that love God.” So I took my Bible which you sent for me and gave it to him. I knew that I could ask you for another and you would send one for me so please help me. I find the New European version clearer to understand than the King James version and the second hand Bible I am using now has some pages missing because it is some time since Sister Josie Walker gave it to me. Also if you have a copy of ‘Wrested Scripture’ could you please send it for me.
KAFUE | Bro Lotson Kayuni
It doesn’t have to be a perfect day for you to accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, and you don’t have to be perfect either. All you need to know before you start praying is that you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The first prayer you may need to pray is to ask Jesus to come into your life, talk to Jesus like you would a good friend and tell him that you have made some mistakes, let him know that you can’t live without him, ask him to forgive you and come into your heart. Tell him you receive him as your Saviour and don’t forget to thank him for his love, forgiveness and eternal life.
Bro Emerson Ntebeka
I wrote to you about my life. At the present moment I am retired from employment and I am still waiting for my pay benefits which takes 2-3 years here in Zambia. If one is not working and has responsibility looking after a family it is definitely hard.
KAPIRI-MPOSHI | Bro Austen Mwaka
It is good that in isolation we receive the Gospel News magazine. For now and as a matter of urgency I am requesting a Swahili Bible as I have someone who is interested in our faith but doesn’t know any English but only Swahili.
KWE KWE | Bro Melusi Ndlovu
“Then having anointed the eyes of the blind man, he sent him to wash in the pool of Siloam, and the man’s sight was restored. ‘Is not this he that sat and begged?’ ‘He is like him’. But he who had received the great blessing settled the question by saying, ‘I am Bro Godson Kafuna standing with his baby in his garden at home, together with his wife, Sis Dinah and their friend, Patrick Luyako, who is a refugee from Angola he’. He then told them of Jesus, and by what means he had been healed and they inquired, ‘Where is he?’ He said, ‘I know not’. The Pharisees asked the man’s parents, ‘How then doth he now see?’ ‘We know that this is our son and that he was born blind. But by what means he now seeth, ask him, he shall speak for himself’.” The blind man was filled with joy and gratitude, he beheld the wondrous things of nature, and was filled with delight at the beauty of earth and sky. The blind man answered, ‘Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not. One thing I know: whereas I was blind now I see’. God helped him to show by the pointedness of his replies, that he was not to be ensnared.
KWE KWE | Sis Rosemary Mukarati
“In the world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world”. Jesus’ disciples are to live as he lived, and work as he worked, because they depend on him as the great master worker. Courage, energy and perseverance they must possess. Though apparent impossibilities obstruct their way, by His grace they are to go forward. Instead of deploring difficulties, they are called upon to surmount them. They are to despair of nothing and to hope for everything. With the golden chain of his matchless love, Christ has bound them to the throne of God.
It is his purpose that the highest influence in the universe emanating from the source of all power shall be theirs. They are to have the power to resist evil: power that neither earth, nor death can master, power that will enable them to overcome as Christ overcame.
MUFULIRA | Bro Fred Mumba
At the Mufulira Ecclesia we are doing fine although the number is declining due to the trials of the last days. We held our Copperbelt Fraternal Gathering in Mufilira on 24-26 October 2014 and below a photo of Mufilira brethren and sisters having lunch on the first day waiting for the arrival of brethren and sisters from various places, Ndola, Chingola, Kafue and C/Bombwe.
NDOLA | Bro James Mwanga
How are you? Me, I am fine. I am happy to receive Gospel News. I do enjoy the Magazine and I learn a lot from it. Keep on sending it to me.
In the world today and in my country there are a lot of problems going on. In Zambia, my country, we lost our President last year (November 28, 2014). We are going through a transition time. This is not a new thing for us, so far we have lost three Presidents. It is written “It is appointed for a man to die once, thereafter judgement” (Hebrews 9:27).
SERENJE | Bro Chrian Mambwe
I am requesting 40 copies of the New Testament in Swahili as we have students in prisons who understand Swahili. I also request 10 copies of Bible Basics, 10 NEV Bibles in English and 4 DVDs.
| NEWS FROM ZIMBABWE | |
BANKET | Bro David Yelulani
We need God to guide us both in the big affairs of national life as well as in our private day to day walk with him. What a priceless source of hope and inspiration the Bible is, speaking to the heartaches of ordinary people and influencing the destiny of nations. May God bless and guide you as you turn to him each day.
Bro David (left) some years ago enjoying fellowship with Brethren and Sisters.
CHINHOYI | Bro Moses Aajiweka
Many thanks to Brothers and Sisters for the encouraging articles in the Gospel News. With different hardships we encounter in our different places we are witnessing the fulfilment of scriptures, now that the Saviour’s return is so near, let us hold fast to our beliefs. I am requesting audio and video cds of gatherings, exhortations and hymns.
MAGUNJE | Bro Nice Yotamu
On the early hours of 4 January this year around 1 am, I heard women and children, goats, cows, chickens etc. screaming and crying. That night it was really drama and it was raining heavily. Hunyani River was really angry. The waters were advancing towards the village and at the opposite village the other side of the river people crying, houses all covered by water and as such being trapped during the night really they were nowhere and the only action to take was to find the means of escaping just to save life. Back to our side, facing such incident we started packing our goods, opening doors of cattle, chickens, goats houses for them to move to higher places. We people as we were busy packing, the waters were also advancing towards us. Also having seen the other village being washed away, every thought that it was our turn. Truly trees could not be seen all covered by water. Water everywhere and do not forget that it was raining heavily and all the goods that we were packing was all wet. We had targeted a higher place in a government farm. When it was almost five metres left to start washing our village it suddenly stopped. Truly that was the hand of God. All the crops gone. We do not know maybe the floods might happen the second time this year alone. Moreover, will our plants germinate and be harvested? All remain in the hand of God. Moreover one brother and sister lost their Bibles and two Shona Bible Basics. If possible you may send the four books that is if God willing.
MAGUNJE | Bro Stanford Kuuzha
I am very pleased to receive the books called ‘Teach Me Thy Way’. They are very good for study and understanding God’s word. Thank you. I have passed a copy to my friend with whom I am working on his farm. I am requesting more copies to give to other friends and their families, together with some leaflets as usual. Thanks.
MT DARWIN
Bre Sylvester, Patrick, Walter and Ignatious acknowledge thanks for meeting Bro David Smith, and Bro Jeremy and Sis Jean from the UK with Bro Johannes and Sis Nosisa of Harare. We met at the Russell Hotel from midday till sunset studying the word of God.
Our prayer is that God will enable us to believe what we discovered in His word, and then to use what we learned to make a difference in these last days, when many have lost their way and God’s respect. “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be” (Matthew 6:21).
